www.JewishFederationLCC.org Vol. 39, No. 10 n June 2017 / 5777 Annual Community Holocaust Memorial Service he annual Community Holo- Dr. Paul Bartrop, a knowledgeable caust Memorial Service was and respected Holocaust scholar; both Theld on Sunday, April 23 at Jewish and non-Jewish clergy; and lay Temple Beth El. Over 250 people leaders representing their organiza- turned out to recall the victims of the tions. Holocaust, to honor those who sur- The most poignant part of every vived and those who saved them, and Holocaust remembrance is the lighting to help fill our obligation “to remember of the memorial candles by those who and not to forget.” survived the Holocaust. We are blessed Participants in the very moving to have them in our community and service included: Rafael Ruiz, a tal- that they are here to remind future gen- Rabbi Marc Sack of Temple Judea Guest speaker Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director of the ented 16-year-old violinist; pianist and erations of not only remembering the Center for Judaic, Holocaust, and Genocide longtime Jewish community mem- past, but of the importance of building Studies at Florida Gulf Coast University, ber Randy Kashi; an interfaith choir; a safe, more humane world. speaks about “Music and the Holocaust”
Rabbi Nicole Luna of Temple Beth El
Dr. Paul Bartrop addresses community members who gathered in the Members of the Jewish community and Unitarian Universalist Church, led Temple Beth El sanctuary to remember the victims of the Holocaust by choir director Suellen Kipp, sing music from the Holocaust
Rabbi Devora Buchen of Temple Beth Shalom
Ellis Rabinowitz, President of Temple Beth El assisted survivors in the lighting of the candles; Steen Metz lights a candle Carla Benninga, lights a candle for herself Renee Sugar lights a candle and for fellow survivor, Lore Rosenstrauch
Jessica Evers, representing The Community Free Synagogue
Michele Laboda, a Jewish Federation Violinist Rafael Ruiz, board member and member of accompanied by Cheryl and Barry Fulmer, representing Congregation Bat Yam Temple Beth El welcomes everyone pianist Randy Kashi
Reverend Allison Farnum of the Unitarian Universalist Church
Irene Skolnick lights a candle Francoise Onufer lights a candle Pastor Gaspar Anastasi of Word of Life Ministries
9701 Commerce Center Court POSTMASTER: NONPROFIT ORG Fort Myers, Florida 33908 DATED RELIGIOUS U.S. POSTAGE NEWS ITEMS. PAID TIME SENSITIVE– FT. MYERS, FL PLEASE EXPEDITE! PERMIT NO. 175 DELIVER TO CURRENT RESIDENT OR L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 2 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION Program notes In this issue: rogram planning for next year is already un- our JYP group for a Happy Hour meetup on Sunday, derway. Dates and venues for some of next June 11 at 4:30 p.m. at the Brass Tap at Coconut Point. 5 Our Community season’s events are tentatively on the calendar, We hope this will be the first of many joint events 8 Jewish Interest Psoon to be finalized. By the time you read this, Caro- between the two groups. You can RSVP to me direct- lyn Gora and I will have just returned from the Jewish ly at [email protected] or 239.481.4449 x3, or 14 Israel & the Jewish World Book Council (JBC) Confer- on the JYP Facebook page. ence in New York City. JFed Social Club 14 Marketplace Jewish Book Council The JFed Social Club will enjoy a potluck dinner at Conference 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 14 in the Federation 16 Commentary Our Federation is a member building. Good food, good company and good con- 17 From the Bimah of the JBC, which means we versation are planned. If you are interested in attend- have access to over 200 authors ing, please contact me to let me know what you will 18 Focus on Youth – either Jewish or those who be bringing – dairy and parve dishes only, please. wrote books of Jewish content Food Pantry 20 Organizations Leni Sack published during this past year. On another note, please remember our Food Pantry The two of us will hear these during the summer. Families in need of food during 22 Temple News authors pitch their new books and then, with the help the busiest months of the year, still need food during 22 Community Directory of volunteers reading the books, begin to make deci- the slowest of months. Children, who get free break- sions about which ones to invite for the coming year. fasts and lunches at school, do not have that option We hope to bring in several authors that will appeal during the summer. Some adults who work during to a wide range of audiences. I welcome input on the season face less work or no work during the off sea- types of books you like to read and authors you would son. Seniors on fixed incomes depend on the Food like to meet. I especially welcome volunteers to work Pantry year-round. on a committee to read the books and help plan the Our Food Pantry makes a difference to the Jew- author events. Let me know if you are interested! ish and non-Jewish people of all ages it serves each Israel Scouts Caravan month. Please don’t let the slower pace of summer life The Scouts are coming, the Scouts are coming! You slow your contributions. Our pantry stocks canned definitely won’t want to miss the Israel Scouts when and dry goods, as well as toiletries and paper goods. they perform at Temple Beth El on Sunday, June 18 Cash contributions are also welcome. Whatever you at 4:00 p.m. This free program is sponsored by the can do is very much appreciated. Jewish Federation, Temple Judea and Temple Beth As I reflect over the past programming year, I El. The Israel Scouts Caravan is made up of ten 16- would like to thank everyone who attended at least and 17-year-old Israeli students who put on an amaz- one of our programs, volunteered to help on a project ing singing and dancing show. Their performance or with an event, served on our board or a committee, is energetic and fun, and represents the best of our or contributed to the annual campaign and the food Jewish homeland. This is a performance for all ages. pantry. Your help makes all things possible and I can’t Young Jewish Professionals thank you enough. The Young Jewish Professionals group from the I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe sum- Jewish Federation of Collier County will be joining mer.
EVERYONE IS INVITED! Jewish news published monthly by Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, FL 33908 ISRAELI SCOUTS FRIENDSHIP CARAVAN (239) 481-4449 • Fax: (239) 481-0139 Online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org June 2017 • Volume 39, Number 10 Sunday, June 18 at 4:30 p.m. Co-Presidents: Rozzi Osterman • Brian Simon Temple Beth El Board: Paul Bartrop • Herb Fried • Carolyn Gora Jerry Greenfield • Keith Grossman • Andi Horowitz 16225 Winkler Road, Fort Myers Charles Idelson • Linda Idelson • Marsha Kistler Sara Krivisky • Michele Laboda • JoAnn Lewin Barbara Siegel • Sylvia Simko • Sherri Zucker Executive Director: Alan Isaacs Program Director: Leni Sack Executive Assistant: Lori Ramos Jewish Family Services: Jodi Cohen Editor/Designer: Ted Epstein (239) 249-0699 Advertising: Jim Lewin (239) 634-6923 SHALOM, LEE & CHARLOTTE L’CHAYIM invites correspondence on subjects of interest to Jewish people. Partisan political opinions will not be published, COUNTIES. but opinions on subjects affecting the Jewish community are welcome. All inquiries regarding copy for L’CHAYIM should be directed to the editor. All news material must be very clearly printed or typed (not in all-capital letters) and double-spaced. Electronic submissions encouraged. The editor reserves the right to edit for space and content. Photographs should be clear, black-and-white or color prints. If you wish a photograph returned, include a stamped, self-addressed envelope of appropriate size. The Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties disclaims responsibility or endorsement of the views expressed by the writers and claims by advertisers. JULY ISSUE The Scouts put on a very energetic EDITORIAL DEADLINE: performance. They sing and dance Monday, June 5 on stage and with the audience. Their love for Israel is apparent.
Grow your business They represent the best of the Jewish state.
with L’CHAYIM. Sponsored by: A show for all ages. Reach 5,000 local There is no cost Jewish residents to attend. through this paper. No RSVP required. For more information or to place an ad, call Jim For a continuously updated at 239.634.6923 or send an email to calendar of events, visit [email protected]. www.JewishFederationLCC.org. L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 OUR FEDERATION Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 3
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L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 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. YOUR SUPPORT Sunday Promote Strengthen & enrich Honor/ Share your KINDNESS JEWISH COMMarchMUNITY 1st Remember MITZVAH A LOVED ONE
This year please consider making an additional campaign contribution in honor or in 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 our community.
Generous Donors: How the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties Serves
Anonymous Angels Local Jewish Education and Culture Temple Beth El Community wide Jewish Education and Culture Programs for Temple Judea all ages including the Jewish Film Festival, Jewish Author Mellow Mah Jongg Ladies Events, Israel Celebration, Jewish genealogy, Israeli folk Israeli Dancers dancing, social groups, etc. Cheryl & Barry Fulmer L’CHAYIM published monthly to keep the Jewish community John & Rozzi Osterman informed about local, national and international Jewish issues. The Rosman Family Community Relations activities include monitoring anti Marty & Judy Freling Semitism and issues of separation of church and state in the Shalom Life Center community. Ruth Lefberg Israel Advocacy and Initiatives to strengthen local Jewish Ginger Horton community ties with Israel. Holocaust Education through the Sandy & Don Komito Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida to middle and high school students in the community.
Overseas Funding to the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) for full spectrum social services to Israel and Jewish communities in 60+ countries around the world. Partnership 2Gether relationship with the Hadera Eiron Region in Israel.
TRIBUTES Local Seniors Services In memory of Becky Kon Holiday baskets and teen visits to seniors and senior facilities for Rosh Hashanah, Hanukah and Passover. from Cheryl & Barry Fulmer Seniors & Volunteers Lunch Program. Emerging and pressing needs related to senior housing, health Each month, L’CHAYIM will list your Tributes. and socialization. Please send them to Lori Ramos Local Case Management Services at the Federation at [email protected]. Non sectarian, individual and family outreach, information and referral services. Individual life coaching and support services. Thanks to the following supporters of L’CHAYIM for their contribution to help underwrite the cost of Local Emergency Services Food Pantry. bringing news of the local, national and international Emergency financial assistance. Jewish community to your mailbox every month! Education and aid associated with natural disasters.
Local Community Services SUBSCRIBER: Support families of children with special needs. Eugene Scheel SAT preparatory classes for high school students. Volunteerism. Organizational Collaboration. Assessment and Planning.
Jewish Community Foundation ConneCt An endowment that ensures the long term financial base of with your Jewish Community charitable, social and educational programs in our community. Needs based college scholarships and study scholarships in Israel. www.facebook.com/ Projects and programs aimed at Jewish community enrichment. facebook.com/jfedsrqJewishFederationLCC
Senior Outreach Program
Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel
Come out for lunch, see familiar faces and meet new friends at our monthly senior lunches. Grants Available
UPCOMING DATES
The Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Grant is available through nd Thursday, June 22 at 11:00 A.M. the Community Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Lee
Brookdale and Charlotte Counties. The grant may be used for travel to 8351 College Pkwy, Fort Myers Israel to participate in programs that are volunteer or th (R.S.V.P. by June 19 ) educational in nature. Our hope is that these programs will *Space limited first come basis enhance Jewish knowledge and identity in preparation for
participation in American Jewish life. This grant is for Jewish
th residents of either county who are 25 years old or younger Tuesday, July 18 at 12:00 P.M. and can demonstrate a financial need. Academic standing Temple Beth Shalom R.S.V.P. 702 SE 24th Ave., Cape Coral to Jodi Cohen and community involvement may also be considered. For th more information or an application, please visit our website at (R.S.V.P. by July 14 ) 239.481.4449 x 6 www.JewishFederationLCC.org or contact the Federation at 239-481-4449, ext. 4 or email [email protected].
Let us know if you will be driving or if you would like a volunteer to pick you up. www.jewishfederationlcc.org L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 OUR COMMUNITY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 5
The Jewish Federation Annual Campaign provides the resources to The Museum and its Education Outreach programs strengthen and enrich our Jewish community locally, in Israel and around the world. By Amy Snyder, Executive Director, Holocaust Museum & Education Center of SWFL YOUR SUPPORT any of us are familiar with the what the Holocaust Museum & Edu- own actions can have on others. It is literally make history come alive; and Strengthen &Sunday enrich phrase, “Sticks and stones cation Center of Southwest Florida well known that our actions are a direct (3) share stories of true heroes that can Promote will break my bones, but does to educate students and the public result of our thoughts and words, so we inspire our young people to stand up Share your JEWISH COMMUNITY M Honor/ KINDNESS March 1st words will never hurt me.” Although about the Holocaust, its history and im- must order our thoughts and choose and speak out in their own sphere of Remember MITZVAH our parents were well-intentioned in pact on the world. our words in such a way that build up influence. A LOVED ONE trying to get us to When public figures, whether poli- our communities, not tear them down. Your partnership is crucial in this ignore bullies at ticians, celebrities or business people, A difference of opinion does not ren- endeavor. In addition to an anony- school, this state- choose to make modern-day com- der the other person “evil,” but the mous gift of $25,000 given at our re- ment is not true. parisons to the actions and attitudes unchecked exchange of harsh words cent Triumph event in support of our This year please consider making an additional campaign contribution in honor or in memory of a loved one. Words do have of Adolf Hitler, the Nazis or fascists, can easily escalate into evil intent and overall education programs (which Because kindness is contagious we would like to highlight your generosity in L’CHAYIM and notify personally those whom an impact and the their words impact millions of people. violent actions. was matched and then some!), a sec- you honor. You may choose how your generosity is noted and how we share your mitzvah with our community. power to lift up Oftentimes, their comparisons are in- In a democratic republic, we have ond anonymous gift of $25,000 was or the power to correct, but the damage is done, as the the responsibility to be educated citi- recently given to support the upkeep tear down. It is average person does not delve any fur- zens who move beyond the headlines, and activities of The Boxcar Project. Amy incumbent upon ther than reading the headline, Tweet seek the truth, and make informed de- Wow! We are so grateful to these do- Snyder us to choose our or Facebook post. cisions. That obviously does not mean nors, and to all of you who see the words wisely, whether we are speaking The Museum and its Education that we will all agree on every issue, importance of our mission and partner in public or private. Outreach programs fulfill an impor- but it does mean that we need to work with us to achieve it. Although this is a timeless issue, tant need in our local communities by together to accomplish what is best for As we head into the final month it has been brought to the forefront drawing attention to our common hu- our community, state and nation. of our fiscal year, we ask you to think in recent months in a variety of ways, manity and the importance of having Through the Museum’s education about how you could help us attain a sometimes in connection to the events respect and empathy for each other. programs, we do the following: (1) strong finish and continue our work. of the Holocaust and World War II. The Our goal is not to shock, but to educate provide historical information to make Together, we will leave the legacy of Holocaust comparison headline from and get students and visitors to put cur- accurate comparisons to current issues; a better future and quality of life in our the recent White House News Briefing rent events in an historical context and (2) introduce students to people who communities. serves to underscore the importance of think critically about the effects their were affected by the Holocaust and Charming romantic Jewish comedy The Wedding Plan opens June 2 rom American-Israeli writer and she books a venue, sends out invita- Noa Koler gives a brilliant performance Precinct), Oz Zehavi (Yossi) and Irit director Rama Burshtein (Fill tions and buys a wedding dress, as her as Michal, for which she received the Sheleg (Fill The Void). the Void) comes The Wedding skeptical mother and sister look on Ophir Award (the Israeli version of the The Wedding Plan opens Friday, F ® Plan, a poignant and funny with trepidation. Oscar ) for best actress as well as the June 2 at the Regal Bell Tower Stadium romantic comedy about During Michal’s best actress award at the Haifa Film 20 in Fort Myers. For more information, love, marriage and faith in month-long search for Festival. The film co-stars popular Is- visit theweddingplanmovie.com. life’s infinite possibilities. a spouse, she enlists raeli actors Amos Tamam (Downtown At 32, Michal, an the help of two dif- Orthodox woman, is fi- ferent matchmakers, nally looking forward to goes on a series of the comfort and security disastrous blind dates, of marriage, when she and finds an unexpect- is blindsided by her fi- ed connection with a ancé’s decision to call off charming but utterly the wedding with only a unsuitable pop star – month’s notice. Unwilling all while dismissing to return to lonely single pleas by concerned life, Michal decides to put friends and family her trust in fate and continue with her members that she reconsider her risky wedding plans, believing Mr. Right will plan. As the day of the ceremony grows appear by her chosen date. Confident closer and no suitor appears, Michal puts she will find a match made in heaven, everything on the line to find happiness. Community Free Synagogue
events open to the public Specializing in Brown Bag Movie Night soft drinks are free. outpatient hip and The Community Free Synagogue’s June Community Free knee replacement next Brown Bag Movie Night is on Sabbath Eve Dinners Thursday, June 22 at 6:30 p.m. and fea- Each Friday evening in June the Com- tures the 1968 classic Funny Girl. munity Free Synagogue host a tradi- Receiving eight Academy Award tional Sabbath Eve dinner starting at nominations, this musical tells the sto- 6:30 p.m. in its Community Hall. ry of legendary Ziegfeld Follies Jewish After candle lighting and Qiddush, comedian Fanny Brice (Barbra Strei- parents are invited to offer an age-old sand, in an Oscar-winning role), an Jewish blessing to their children fol- unconventional beauty who grew up lowed by spouses reciting “A Woman in the Jewish tenements of the Lower of Valor” (Proverbs 31) to their wives East Side dreaming of stardom. Her before the meal begins. success threatens her husband (Omar Following these rituals, a home- Sharif) and stresses their marriage. cooked meal is enjoyed, including This movie challenged the prevail- home-baked “artisan hallah” and Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel ing stereotype of Jewish women being award-winning soups. First-time visi- dependent on their husbands by revers- tors are encouraged to bring a bottle ing it, portraying men dependent on of wine or a dessert to share. Those
Grants Available their wives. It also brought identifiably wishing to remain for the Sabbath Eve
Jewish comedians into the entertain- Qaballat Shabbat service in the sanctu-
ment mainstream. The film generally ary after the meal are encouraged to do
appears on most “Top Jewish Movies” so, but it not a must. The Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Grant is available through lists. These meals are open to all at no the Community Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Lee Pack your dinner. Admission and charge. and Charlotte Counties. The grant may be used for travel to Israel to participate in programs that are volunteer or Studying family history brings more than just historical knowledge, educational in nature. Our hope is that these programs will it builds relationships. Learning the stories behind names and dates enhance Jewish knowledge and identity in preparation for teaches a personal history that explains more than just how each participation in American Jewish life. This grant is for Jewish person came to be. EVERYONE WELCOME. residents of either county who are 25 years old or younger and can demonstrate a financial need. Academic standing Jewish Genealogy SIG (Special Interest Group) and community involvement may also be considered. For Next meeting: Thursday, June 8 more information or an application, please visit our website at 10:00 11:30 a.m. www.JewishFederationLCC.org or contact the Federation at LEARN HOW TO BEGIN RESEARCH INTO YOUR FAMILY’S HISTORY 239-481-4449, ext. 4 or email [email protected]. OR GET HELP FINDING NEW STRATEGIES TO ENHANCE THE SEARCH
YOU HAVE ALREADY STARTED.
There is no cost to attend. RSVPs are a must to Arthur at [email protected]. Meetings are held at the Jewish Federation ● 9701 Commerce Center Ct. ● Fort Myers 33908 L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 6 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR COMMUNITY Two to receive authorization to serve Temple Beth Shalom’s annual donation as Community Rabbis to Cape Coral Caring Center n Wednesday evening, May 31, very largest number of our rabbis over She helps organize the congregation’s the Adult Intensive Prayerbook He- our years ago, the Brotherhood the 2nd night of Shavu’ot, Terri very many centuries,” noted Rabbi Seder suppers and Israel Pilgrimage. brew Course at the Community Free of Temple Beth Shalom in Cape OGoldberg and Thomas Miess Diamond. Miess is a trained “ba’al qoré” Synagogue, and prepared adult BnotF Coral began donating 10% of will receive their “reshut hora’ah,” Goldberg, who is completing her (master Torah reader), an experienced Mitzvah. Miess and Goldberg assist its profit from the annual Sam Bel- authorization to serve as Community chaplaincy training in the Clinical Hebrew educator, and past president of the Rabbi at funerals and weddings,kin Memorial Golf Tournament to the Rabbis from Rabbi Bruce Diamond at Pastoral Education Program at Na- a Downey, California, synagogue. As and conduct the congregation’s YizkorCape Coral Caring Center. This year the Community Free Synagogue. Their ples Community Hospital, received a master craftsman, he oversees spe- Services throughout the year. Both par-the tourney was held at Palmetto-Pine authorization to teach and oversee the her bachelor’s degree in Judaic Stud- cial synagogue building projects and ticipate in the Hesed Shel Emet BurialCountry Club. After a successful fun- religious life of our people is granted ies from the New York State Univer- makes free burial caskets for indigent Society. draising event, Brotherhood President at the end of their weekly three years sity College and her master’s degree in Jewish funerals. Shavu’ot, The Festival of Weeks,Barry Belkin presented a check to the of intensive classical Halakhic and li- Social Work from Yeshiva University. Together they organized and teach comes the day following seven weeks Cape Coral Caring Center on May 1. turgical studies, homiletics, as well as after Passover (the Greek name Penta- This year is especially important practical training in all facets of syna- cost means the 50th [day]). The Sagesto the Caring Center, as Wendy Woo- gogue life and Jewish lifecycle events. called it “zman matan torahtaynu,” theten explained, “We are about to begin Goldberg’s and Miess’ studies with time of the giving our Torah, tradition-a special program when school lets out the Rabbi, who continues overseeing ally received by Moses on Sinai, thecalled “Healthy not Hungry Kids.” We their rabbinical duties, will also con- beginning of the centuries of transmis- tinue indefinitely. sion of Jewish wisdom from one gen- “The Community Rabbi is a natu- eration of scholars to the next. Hammer time at Temple Beth El ral evolution from the many para-rab- The most solemn obligation of a binic programs around the country first seasoned Torah scholar is to raise up initiated by the Reform Movement. other scholars like Goldberg and Miess The principle difference is the -dura and forge them as unbreakable links tion, depth of learning and supervised in this chain of tradition. Shavu’ot is a internships. When it comes to pre- most appropriate time for this. paring new Jewish religious leaders, The Shavu’ot night worship ser- there is no substitute for the traditional vice, Yizkor and ordination ceremony prolonged, in-depth face-to-face study begin at 7:00 p.m. and are followed by and preparation that has created the Terri Goldberg Thomas Miess a reception. B’NAI MITZVAH Mazel Tov to Linda Shuster who will be called to read from the Torah for her first time as a Bat Mitz- vah on Sabbath morning. May 27 at the Community Free Synagogue. Born in New Haven, Linda lived in Connecticut all her life until moving to Fort Myers 12 years ago. She is married to Jeff Shuster and has two grown daughters and three grandchildren. JEWISH FEDERATION Linda is a recently-retired RN who can now ful- fill her lifelong dream of becoming a Bat Mitzvah FOOD PANTRY by learning to read from Torah and prayerbook. She has been attending the Community Free Synagogue Following is a list of staples always in need at the food pantry: for over a decade. Peanut butter and jelly Pasta sauce (pasta, not needed) Rice and beans Canned vegetables and fruits Each month, L’CHAYIM will list your Life Cycle Cereal Canned meats Condiments Toiletries for adults & children events – births, B’nai Mitzvah, engagements, etc.
Gift cards to places like Publix, Walmart, Target, etc., as well as cash donations, are also appreciated. Submit your events to [email protected]. Jewish Family Services helps seniors, individuals and families with a variety of needs. PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS
JFED SOCIAL CLUB WHO SUPPORT OUR FEDERATION
WEDNESDAY Bring a dairy & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE. JUNE 14 or parve dish 5:30 P.M. to share. RSVP by June 5 to Leni Join us for a 239.481.4449 x3 or fun evening with This month’s [email protected] good food and
good company at the Federation. advertisers This publication is brought to you each month thanks to the support of our advertisers. Please be sure to use their products and services, and mention that you found them in L’CHAYIM. Advanced Pain Management...... 3 Ilona Travels...... 8 Alliance Financial Group...... 15 Jewish Museum of FL-FIU...... 16 Art of Fashion and Moore...... 15 JNF...... 7 Gwen Baker, Realtor®...... 15 Lee Lighting...... 14 Dr. Daniel Bendetowicz...... 14 Living Happily Counseling...... 15 Each Tuesday afternoon, an open session of Mah Jongg Brookdale Senior Living...... 7 Charles Massie, CPA, CFP®.....15 is held at the Jewish Federation. Campo Felice Retirement Living.13 Mathematics Tutoring...... 15 Cypress Cove...... 24 Michael Shapiro Photography...16 Players must be at least advanced beginners, as no lessons are given. Harold Eskin, Attorney...... 14 Paragon Pools...... 14
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programs. It promotes Jewish values, him throughout Israel, the U.S., and to experience are welcome. Wear Jewish history, Jewish tradition, and a many other countries, where he visits comfortable shoes, bring a water bottle strong connection to Israel, without be- synagogues, religious schools, and se- ing coercive or condescending. nior residences. Rabbi Hammer’s visit BRING A FRIEND! See you Sundays. Rabbi Nicole Luna said, “Rabbi with TBE’s Religious School children RSVP a must by Fridays at noon Hammer beautifully integrated the in grades 3-7 emphasized both a sense to Marsha Kistler importance of the IDF with the im- of pride in Jewish identity and the im- [email protected] portance of maintaining a robust Jew- portance of being united as Jews. His ish identity. Because of his work, the dynamic delivery engaged the students
Each month, L’CHAYIM will list your Life Cycle events – births, B’nai Mitzvah, engagements, etc. JEWISH NATIONAL FUND INVITES YOU TO Submit your events to [email protected]. We Earned LEARN ABOUT This Lifestyle. SUSTAINABILITY IN ISRAEL Thursday, June 22, 2017 2:30 - 4:30 pm
Temple Beth El 16225 Winkler Road, Ft. Myers, FL
Featuring Dr. Michael Ben-Eli Founder, Sustainability Laboratory
We served our country, raised a family and worked hard. We earned a rewarding retirement — and we’re not about to slow down. That’s why we chose to live in a retirement community where Dr. Michael Ben-Eli founded Sustainability Laboratory in order we have the chance to enjoy life to the fullest. From to address urgent sustainability challenges facing the planet. great meals to great times, we’re more active Exemplifying The Lab’s signature approach is its flagship project, Project Wadi Attir. Located near the Bedouin town of than ever. You would love it here, too. Hura, Project Wadi Attir seeks to develop and demonstrate a model for sustainable, community-based agricultural Discover why Brookdale communities are such enterprise, adapted to a desert environment. exceptional places to live. More Information Marcy Friedland, Senior Campaign Executive, Call (239) 433-4445 to schedule your personal visit. Western Florida, at [email protected] or 727.536.5263
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© 2017 Brookdale Senior Living Inc. All rights reserved. BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING and BRINGING NEW LIFE TO SENIOR LIVING are registered trademarks of Brookdale Senior Living Inc. 51733-College Parkway SC jnf.org 800.JNF.0099 Bringing New Life to Senior Living® brookdale.com L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 8 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Recent biography of Herzl brings us closer Stars of David to the man and his times Book review by Philip K. Jason, Special to L’CHAYIM Herzl’s Vision: Theodor Herzl and but he was already speculating on how get Herzl an audience tractive style that keeps the Foundation of the Jewish State, to restore dignity to the ancient, decay- with someone at the top readers engaged with the by Shlomo Avineri. ing city. Herzl had his audience with of the ladder. study’s scholarly underpin- Trans. Haim Watzman. BlueBridge. the German emperor, but his efforts at With Avineri, we ning. 304 pages. Trade paperback $16.95. diplomacy that would lead to a Jew- wind through Herzl’s At his death, Herzl ish state did not bear fruit. Yet seeds newspaper pieces, his could have been considered his gets the “must” award; that to that end were planted in the public trial balloon propos- a failure. In the following de- is, it’s a “must for every Jew- arena. al titled The Jewish cades, he would be revered, Tish library.” Private or public. What led up to Herzl making this State, the building of more and more, as the great Personal or university. First published trip? How had he prepared for it and the energy and con- prophet and leader who, like in Israel in 2008, it was translated into arranged it? We must step back in time nections that lead to the First Moses himself, was not able English for publication in Great Brit- to understand how this journalist and Zionist Congress in Basel, Switzer- to enter the Promised Land. ain in 2013. BlueBridge brought out a playwright became a voice and a force land, after which the succeeding an- About the author hardcover edition three years ago. Now for an independent Jewish nation. Then nual congresses became benchmarks Shlomo Avineri, Professor of Political the paperback is here. we can move forward, pick up his trail of progress – or of something less than Science at the Hebrew University of There are many other Theodor in the aftermath of his visit to Jerusa- progress. Jerusalem, is a graduate of the Hebrew Herzl biographies, many of them quite lem, and follow him step by step until The author’s strategic use of mate- University and the London School of fine, but this one his untimely death in 1904. rials from his subject’s diaries allows Economics, and served as Director- has a special Professor Shlomo Avineri imbeds readers to feel something like Herzl’s General of Israel’s Ministry of Foreign value because it Herzl fully in his time and place. The emotional, ideational and locomotive Affairs in the first government of Prime comes closer than author recreates the upheavals of later pulse. He was a traveling man. It’s not Minister Yitzhak Rabin. He held visit- any of the oth- 19th century Europe, the ebbs and flows clear how or how well he rested. He ing appointments at Yale, Cornell, Uni- ers to reflecting of Jewish hopes of ascendance fol- mostly faced defeat. How did he keep versity of California, Cardozo School Herzl’s own per- lowed by despair – which is to say the picking himself up? How did he be- of Law, Australian National Univer- spective. This is widening and narrowing of Jewish op- come a man of the world (or at least the sity, Oxford and Northwestern Uni- because it leans portunities to live lives untrammeled world he had to win over), respected as versity; and has been a Fellow at the much more heav- by anti-Semitism. He narrows the lens the leader of a nation not yet born? Brookings Institution and the Carnegie Phil ily on Herzl’s dia- to focus on Herzl’s growing interest Professor Avineri examines Herzl’s Endowment for International Peace, Jason ries as well as the in the Jewish question and his grow- several plays, drawing out how they both in Washington, D.C., the Institute works he published during his lifetime. ing understanding and rigorous search operate to explore conditions and re- for World Economy and International We have here Herzl the polemicist, for the answer while his life and career lationships relevant to his overarching Relations (IMEMO) in Moscow, and Herzl the novelist, and Herzl the play- moved through Budapest, Vienna and concerns. He examines the compro- Collegium Budapest. wright – all looming large in combina- Paris. mised success of Altneuland, Herzl’s He is Recurring Visiting Professor tion with many other aspects of an un- We see the importance of Herzl’s quasi-utopian at the Central European University in usually complex Jewish man. journalistic eye and curiosity in the novel that de- Budapest. Like much successful biography – fashioning of means to an end. How velops a middle In 1996 he received the Israel and fiction – this study begins with a he realized the necessity of the Jew- road between Prize, the country’s highest civilian gripping point of attack. It is the fall of ish question becoming an international collective and decoration. 1898. Herzl and other Zionist leaders question at the highest levels of po- individual au- Among his books: The Social and have come to interact with Kaiser Wil- litical power. He sought opportunities tonomy. Political Thought of Karl Marx, helm II of Germany, who is touring the to lecture, to organize the unsteady Avineri Hegel’s Theory of the Modern State, Holy Land. The chapter backgrounds threads of Zionist activity and com- Shlomo Avineri stands behind Israel and the Palestinians, Karl Marx the preparations for this trip, the expec- mitment, to seek the attention and the Herzl as the almost-prophet tries out on Colonialism and Modernization, tations Herzl had, and the unfolding of ears of government functionaries who the alternative homeland flavors – The Making of Modern Zionism, Mo- the group’s ten days – mostly in Jerusa- might in time get him an audience with from El-Arish through Uganda (in the ses Hess: Prophet of Communism and lem. Herzl had to fight through a fever, a major office holder who might just view of many, Herzl’s greatest miscal- Zionism and Communitarianism and culation). We feel the exhaustion and Individualism. Lorem Ipsum pain in Herzl’s need to heal the frac- Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeritus IlonaTravels.com (239) 693-2308 tures that often crippled the Zionist of English from the United States Na- movement. val Academy. He reviews regularly for Everywhere, the author blends Florida Weekly, Jewish Book World, Herzl the thinker with Herzl the doer Southern Literary Review, and other – the activist: the man in motion. He publications. Please visit Phil’s web- Israel and the does this with a sure hand and an at - site at www.philjason.wordpress.com. Holy Land For a continuously updated calendar of events, visit With Ilona Travels www.JewishFederationLCC.org. of Fort Myers May - September with Ilona TobackSummer Break 10 Day Tour withIncludes: Optional Post
8 Days Sightseeing Tour to Petra 9 nights Deluxe Hotels plus airfare
Returns From $3990. Per Person Departs October 21, 2017 - Federation book club November 1, 2017 will resume October 25.
October book:
Price Includes: 8 days of touring in a comfortable air-conditioned bus A Horse Walks into a Bar with an English-speaking guide accompanying the group by David Grossman Transfers to and from the airport Hotel accommodations based on double occupancy Breakfast daily 9701 Commerce Center Ct. Attractions and entrance fees 4 dinners Fort Myers 33908
L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 9 Stars of David Interested in Your By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist 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 at left) 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 At the Movies: practically a superhero Jewish role with a limited search of one family line. Something for Everyone model: a former Miss Israel, top model, Here’s one from May that may still be Israel army veteran, motorcycle rider, So here’s the deal: in a theater near you and has a Florida mother of two with her Israeli husband Write Bloom at [email protected] and enclose a phone number. connection: Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The (a successful hotel developer) – and, of Nate will then contact you about starting a limited search. If that Long Haul is the fourth installment in course, hot actress. the Diary series. It takes place a year Opening Friday, June 16 is Rough goes well, additional and more extensive searches are possible. after the events in the third film, but Night, a raunchy female comedy. The first search fee is no more than $100. No upfront cost. Also, the principal cast has been replaced. Things go badly for five girlfriends at a several of this newspaper’s readers have asked Bloom to locate Newcomer JASON IAN DRUCKER, rowdy bachelorette party when one of 11, stars as Greg Heffley, replacing them accidentally kills a male stripper. friends and family members from their past, and that’s worked out ZACHARY GORDON, now 19. The friends are played by SCARLETT great for them. So contact him about this as well. ALICIA SILVERSTONE, 40, plays JOHANSSON, 32, ZOE KRAVITZ, Greg’s mom. Long Haul finds Greg 28, ILANA GLAZER, 30 (co-star and his brother convincing their family of Broad City), Jillian Bell and Kate ing History. Band Aid has received be filming a movie in which she plays to go on a road trip for their grandma’s McKinnon. very good advance reviews. a Syrian Jewish woman from Brook- 90th birthday. But they actually intend Kravitz, whose maternal grandma Likewise, The Hero, which opens lyn who’s fighting breast cancer. Other to go to a video convention. and paternal grandpa were Jewish, de- Monday, June 5, may not open near sources provide details: The film isThe Drucker was born and grew up in fines herself as a “secular Jew.” Her you. Sam Elliott, a personal favorite Girl With Pink Hair. Margulies’ char- Hollywood, Florida. His father is an other two grandparents were African- of mine, plays a has-been actor seek- acter is Orthodox, and her character anesthesiologist and his mother is a fit- American and not Jewish. Zoe im- ing out his estranged daughter after a shares her fight with a teenage friend ness instructor. They belong to a local pressed me with her co-starring work health scare. Along the way, he bonds who also has breast cancer. The di- Reform temple. in the recent HBO limited series, Big with a comic (LAURA PREPON, 37). rector is SUSAN SEIDELMAN, 64 Opening Friday, June 2 is Wonder Little Lies. She played Bonnie, the Prepon’s father is Jewish and she’s (Desperately Seeking Susan). Woman. Basic plot: Chris Pine, whose woman married to the ex-husband of engaged to actor BEN FOSTER, 36, Margulies ended her AFP inter- maternal grandpa was Jewish, plays series’ star Reese Witherspoon. The se- who was raised in his father’s Jewish view by explaining why she declined to Steve, a WWI American secret agent ries is worth viewing if you get HBO. faith. They’re expecting a child. be in The Good Wife sequel, The Good pursued by the German army because Band Aid, which opens on Friday, Margulies on Terror and Survival Fight. She said: “I had to say good- he knows they plan to use a horribly June 2, may not open near you, but Actress JULIANNE MARGULIES, bye to [Good Wife lead character] Ali- deadly chemical weapon. He crash make a mental note to view it at home 50, talked to the French news service, cia Florrick…Alicia doesn’t wear her lands on an idyllic island where Diana, when it’s available. It co-stars ZOE AFP, on April 21 and revealed that she emotions on her sleeves the way I do. AKA Wonder Woman, lives. She takes LISTER-JONES, 34, and ADAM was near the site of the terrorist killing I am an actress and a Jewish woman... him back to England and for a time she PALLY, 35, as a couple whose marital of a police officer (April 20) in Paris. very opinionated and emotional.” (The doesn’t reveal her true self. But fate discord, ironically, helps their music She said: “I was there just behind the last line, the AFP noted, Margulies said takes her to a no-man’s land on a WWI careers as they form a band that does shooting in a car when everything with a laugh in her voice.) battlefield, and look out, it’s Wonder “fight songs.” Lister-Jones, who was stopped and we just waited…We must What do you think? Woman in full regalia! raised in her mother’s Jewish faith, not give in…otherwise it is the ter- Need to reach the editor of Jews worldwide have been giddy wrote and directed the film. She co- rorists who win…the terrorists do not L’CHAYIM? Send an email to since Israeli actress GAL GADOT, stars in the Fox series, Life in Pieces. measure our capacity for resistance. 32, was cast as Wonder Woman. She’s Pally co-stars in the Fox comedy, Mak- She also told AFP that this July she’ll [email protected].
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30 DAYS. 1 WEDDING. NO GROOM. ALL SHE NEEDS IS A LITTLE FAITH.
Federation book club will resume October 25.
October book: A Horse Walks into a Bar (L’avor et Ha’kir) by David Grossman FROM RAMA BURSHTEIN, THE DIRECTOR OF ‘FILL THE VOID’
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Jewish News FRI 06/02 5" X 9.25" 1/4 PG JL/AK ALL.WDP.0602.JEWISHNEWSEMAIL #3 L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 10 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Music lovers’ paradise: 25th Annual North American The sacrifice of Lidice Jewish Choral Festival By Arlene Stolnitz t’s the time of year when I eagerly and are worth looking at again years in the Jewish text being sung. cal life.” await word from NAJCF with de- later. • It helps me understand how the These reasons give credibility to Itails about the choral festival that The goals of the survey included words and music relate to each the joy that Jewish choral singers expe- takes place every summer in the moun- the following: Why do singers partici- other. rience. But many years have passed. Is tains of upstate New York. This year’s pate in Jewish choral activity? What • It enables me to understand Israel it time now for a new survey? It would event will take place from July 16-20 is the Jewish identity of the singers in new ways. be interesting to observe any changes at the Hudson and where are they from? What kind • It enables me to help transmit Jew- that may have occurred in the years Valley Resort in of choral activities take place in syna- ish music from generation to gen- since the last survey. Kerhonkson. gogues and communities? What are the eration. Meantime, I hope those who attend I have gone names and where are existing Jewish • It makes me feel closer to the the Choral Festival this year have a for many years, choral groups located? memory of the Jewish people. wonderful time and return with lots of never to be dis- The results of nearly 2,000 respon- • It provides me with a community new music and ideas for their groups. appointed at the dents were quite interesting. of Jews who share my love of mu- If you are interested in attend- realm of Jewish It turns out that 39% of the sing- sic. ing, please send an email to NAJCF@ Dr. Paul musical knowl- ers live in the Northeast with only 10% • It is something I contribute to my ZamirChoralFoundation.org, or write to Bartrop edge presented coming from the South and Texas. The Jewish community. me at [email protected]. Arlene each year by pro- remaining singers come from Central, • It helps me connect emotionally Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sara- Stolnitz fessional musi- Midwest, Western and mid-Atlantic with my Judaism. sota Jewish Chorale, is a member of cians. states. For all age groups there were • It gives me a spiritual experience the Jewish Congregation of Venice. A What is NAJCF, you ask? It’s the more women than men participating. in a Jewish context. retired educator from Rochester, New North American Jewish Choral Fes- They are a highly-educated group with Most importantly, analysis of the York, she has sung in choral groups for tival, held each summer since 1990, 89% having at least a BA and many survey data showed one statement over 25 years and also sings in Venice’s bringing together singers and choirs more having extensive additional edu- that stood out from all others, reported Chorale (formerly Exsultate!). Her in- from this country and abroad in a week cational backgrounds. by all singers but especially by those terest in choral music has led to this of classes, concerts and workshops led As a group, Jewish choral sing- under the age of 45: “It enables me to series of articles on Jewish folk music by a talented teaching staff of compos- ers are in the mainstream of Ameri- integrate my Jewish life with my musi- in the Diaspora. ers, conductors and music profession- can Jewish activity. They tend to be als. community-focused, affiliated and The atmosphere is one not only of connected, spiritual, service oriented, learning but also of fun and camarade- synagogue-based and educated profes- rie. With a “camp-like” feeling, daily sionally. community sings, as well as late-night The most interesting aspect is to gatherings of community sing-a-longs, look at the reasons why singers like round out the intensive daily music to participate in Jewish choral groups. workshops and classes offered. The answers, varied as they are, give So what is unique about singers us great insight into the power of mu- who participate in Jewish choral activ- sic and especially the impact it has on ity? Jewish singers. Here are some of the Several years ago, back in May answers given: 2010, Zamir, which is the umbrella • It helps me learn about the rich and music organization headed by Matthew varied Jewish musical tradition. Lazar of New York City, conducted a • It helps me increase my Jewish survey asking that very question. knowledge. The answers were quite interesting • It helps me find personal meaning Independently owned, family oriented. Together we celebrate tradition. Keeping Memories Alive.
1589 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33907 www.fortmyersmemorial.com 239-936-0555 ~ 877-936-0555
Sunday, June 11, 2017 Lobby Activities 1pm, Concert at 2pm Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW • Tickets $10
It’s a world full of super heroes and super villains! At 1:00pm, come dressed as your favorite hero (or villain) and try out the instruments of the orchestra in a Musical Discovery Zone™. Then at 2:00pm, we move into the theater for a concert featuring music from the worlds of heroes and villains including Superman, Spiderman, Batman, Indiana Jones, The Incredibles, and more!
Sponsored in part by:
Performance accessible to all patrons.
TICKETS: 239.481.4849 • GulfCoastSymphony.org SYMPHONY OFFICE: 239.277.1700 L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 11 The sacrifice of Lidice By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD hose of you who read my col- partisans responsible for the attack had umn in these pages regularly connections to another village named Tknow that I always prefer to Lidice, and the Nazis chose the one focus on a Jewish theme relating to closest to Prague in order to exact their the Holocaust. This month’s article, revenge attack. by contrast, is not about Jews – even On June 10, 1942, the Nazis en- though there were enough events with tered Lidice. The next day, 110 men regard to the Jew- and 82 boys of the village were sum- ish experience about marily shot, together with 71 women. which I could have The remaining 198 women and 98 chil- written, such as that dren were sent to concentration camps, 75 years ago this most notably Ravensbrück, where month gas vans were many died. Children deemed to be of used in Riga for the “Aryan stock” were sent to Germany, first time, or that on where they were forcibly integrated Dr. Paul June 1, 1942, the into German society through “re- Bartrop Jews of France, the education” in Nazi orphanages and Netherlands, Belgium, Croatia, Slova- foster homes. kia and Romania were ordered to wear The village itself was then system- yellow stars. atically destroyed, with all references This month, however, I want to to the town expunged from German mark an atrocity that took place in maps and any Czech records still exist- Czechoslovakia – not against Jews, but ing from before the war. The name of against innocent Czech men, women Lidice was removed as though it had and children of the village of Lidice. never existed. Reinhard Heydrich was an SS Several days later, a radio transmit- leader who commanded the Reichssi- ter was found in the nearby village of cherheitshauptamt, or Reich Main Se- Lezaky, leading to some five hundred curity Office, with responsibility for SS troops and police surrounding the carrying out Hitler’s extermination village on June 24. Again, all the adult of the Jews. He established the Ein- inhabitants (33 men and women) were satzgruppen killing squads, charged shot, and the village destroyed. Thir- with executing Jews and others, first in teen children were spared. Of these, German-controlled Poland and later in two sisters were removed to Germany; ISCOVER HAT the Soviet Union. Heydrich also con- both survived, and returned to their D W vened and chaired the Wannsee Con- families after the war. The remaining ference on January 20, 1942, when eleven children were sent to the ex- IT’S LIKE TO HAVE leading Nazi bureaucrats discussed the termination camp at Chelmno, where best ways to carry out the extermina- they, together with a girl from Lidice, N XCEPTIONAL tion of European Jewry. were gassed. A E In late 1941, in addition to his oth- Only 16 of the children of Lidice er duties, Heydrich was appointed the not sent away are known to have sur- DAY, EVERY DAY. Reich Protector of Bohemia and Mora- vived the war, along with 143 of the via – the name given by the Nazis to the women. In October 1942, however, Czech-speaking regions of the former relatives and friends of those killed Czechoslovakia. On May 27, 1942, a at Lidice were hunted down by Nazi planned assassination operation (code- special police. Given their connection named Anthropoid) took place against to Lidice, they, too, were murdered, 2674 Winkler Avenue • Fort Myers, FL 33901 Heydrich. It was carried out by Czech this time at Mauthausen concentration operatives trained and parachuted by camp in Austria. 239-275-7800 the British Special Operations Execu- The martyrdom of Lidice became tive to a location just outside of Prague. a byword for Nazi savagery (even dur- What does exceptional senior living mean to you? Although approved by the Czecho- ing the most savage war in history), its At The Palms of Fort Myers it means a lifestyle slovak government-in-exile in Lon- fate known around the world within where 24-hour Five Star service meets a world of don, local resistance leaders in Prague a relatively short period. In 1949, the opportunities. Savor a delicious meal prepared for pleaded for it not to go ahead, terrified village was rebuilt, together with a me- of the reprisals that might follow. They morial to the victims of the massacre. you by our culinary team or whip up something were to be proven correct, with grue- Unlike Lidice, however, Lezaky was special in your own kitchen. Take an exercise some consequences. not rebuilt, and only memorials remain class with your neighbors or start your day with When the Czech commandos today. our Coffee and Crosswords group. Our lifestyle is ambushed Heydrich on May 27, he It is, perhaps, worth pausing for a designed for the way you live. was seriously wounded by a grenade moment when we think of the horrors thrown into his open car. Bomb frag- of the Holocaust, and remember that DISCOVER: ments from the explosion embedded small towns and villages throughout shrapnel and fibers from the uphol- Nazi Europe suffered their own - ver • Month-to-month rental community stery in Heydrich’s back and side; the sions of Nazi brutality. At Lidice and wounds became infected, and he died Lezaky, 75 years ago this month; at • Five Star Dining Experience, featuring Signature of his injuries on June 4, 1942. Kalavryta in Greece, in 1943; in Ora- recipes In Berlin, a furious Adolf Hitler dour in France, in 1944; and in many, • Lifestyle360 program offering a full-schedule of immediately called for a reprisal kill- many other locations, the statements ing of 10,000 Czechs. Although he was Nazism made about itself became man- activities talked out of this by SS Chief Heinrich ifest in the blood and flesh of countless • Variety of in-house religious services Himmler, nevertheless, over 13,000 innocents. As I have had cause to say in were arrested, with many sent to con- several of my previous columns in this • Scheduled local transportation for medical centration camps where they died sub- paper – and with pain in my soul – Lest appointments and shopping sequently. Far worse, however, was to We Forget. come. Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of His- • 24-hour care available, should your needs change The town of Lidice was selected tory and the Director of the Center for • Exceptional senior living experiences as the target of a wholesale symbolic Judaic, Holocaust, and Genocide Stud- reprisal against the Czech people. Lo- ies at Florida Gulf Coast University. CALL TO SEE HOW YOU CAN LIVE THE cated about ten miles from Prague, the He can be reached at pbartrop@fgcu. EXCEPTIONAL LIFE TODAY! town was, ironically, chosen owing to edu. a case of mistaken identity: one of the Candle lighting times: June 2: 7:59 June 9: 8:02 June 16: 8:05 www.ThePalmsAtFortMyers.com INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING June 23: 8:06 MEMORY CARE • REHABILITATION Assisted Living Facility License #AL07269 Pet June 30: 8:07 ©2017 Five Star Senior Living Friendly L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 12 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Are wine clubs worth it? ADL finds that anti-Semitic incidents in Florida By The Wine Whisperer here are lots of people who resourced member base. Cadillacs. flavors of concentrated fruit and warmspike in 2017 after surging last year don’t know much about wine All clubs (except one, which I’ll Long story short, clubs give you earth. There’s a spine of minerality, ccording to the Anti-Defa- Tbut, happily enough, would like discuss below) offer a wide selection the opportunity to enjoy wines you too, with notes of wet stones. Not as mation League’s (ADL) an- to. One of the easiest ways to introduce of wine types from many regions of the might never find or buy on your own, sweet as most Amarones, which we en-Anual Audit of Anti-Semitic yourself to the delights of the wine world, and they’ll take back any you the enjoyment of discovery and learn- joyed. WW 90 About $45 Incidents released April 24, there has world is the wine don’t like and issue you a credit. They ing and one club even offers a chance Maestro di Antiche Castellibeen a massive increase in incidents club. You sub- also offer discounts to get you to sign to make money, or at least enjoy your Brunello 2010 – Terrific. Althoughtargeting American Jews. The annual scribe, tell them up. Wine Insiders, for example, will monthly shipment of wine for less… light and translucent in the glass, it de-ADL Audit encompasses criminal and your preferences send you 15 assorted bottles for a very even for free. livers rich and balanced fruit flavors ofnon-criminal incidents reported to the (reds, whites, an low introductory price, as will the WSJ Here are the latest discoveries for cherry, strawberry, nutmeg and smoke.ADL Florida office, law enforcement, assortment) and club. Of course, you then sign up for your enjoyment: This one will take you right back tomedia or other sources. These include they pre-select automatic shipments on a monthly or Cancello del Barone Barolo Tuscany. WW 92-93 Around $34 incidents of vandalism, assault and ha- the wines and quarterly basis. Aside from the relative Riserva 2009 – A bit lighter in the glass Ask the Wine Whisperer rassment targeting Jewish individuals ship you a num- level of the wines you get, the clubs are than most Barolos since this is usually Wine comes in bottles of differentand institutions. Jerry ber of bottles on pretty much the same. such a full-bodied wine. It delivers on shapes and colors. Does that mean Florida Jewish institutions re- Greenfield a regular basis. But recently, I discovered a very the palate, though, with flavors of cin- anything? – Tom S., Fort Myers ceived 17 bomb threats this year. As You learn about a wide selection of va- different national wine club that’s ac- namon, tar, smoke, cherry and a slight Wine comes in dark bottles (usuallythe arrests that have been made in these rietals and winegrowing regions with- tually headquartered in Southwest vegetal hint. WW 91 About $40 green or brown) to protect the contentsbomb threats reveal, many anti-Semitic out having to puzzle through a bunch Florida. It’s called Direct Cellars, and Bosco Montepulciano d’Abruzzo from light, which spoils it. The colorincidents were not carried out by orga- of strange place names. they’ve put an interesting spin on the 2012 – Sometimes it’s hard to remem- of the bottle, and the shape, are gener-nized extremists. The clubs also include helpful in- club concept. When you join, you re- ber that Montepulciano is both the ally the result of long tradition in the “There is no doubt that anti-Sem- formation about the selected wines. ceive a wide selection of very enjoy- name of a place and a grape, and they particular winegrowing area. It is un-itism is still deeply embedded in our Tasting notes, facts about the grape able wines, but you also become a have nothing to do with each other. certain why some wines, such as Sau-society. The increase in its manifesta- varietals and regions where they’re representative…with the opportuni- This wine is from Abruzzo, and it’s dif- ternes, are bottled in clear glass. Mosttions is sobering, and should alarm us grown, sometimes a map of the area. ty to enjoy the wines and invite your ferent. Dark ruby color with fairly typi- of them are not. all,” said Yael Hershfield, ADL Florida I receive mailers from various friends to join, as well. When they do, cal scents and flavors of cherry, warm Jerry Greenfield is The Wine Whisper-Interim Regional Director. “This year’s kinds of clubs, and they seem to be cat- you earn income. It is, in truth, a wine earth and licorice. WW 88. $13 er. He is Creative Director of Green-audit is a painful reminder that anti- egorized by their (generally mistaken) club with a multi-level marketing op- Tinazzi Tenute Valleselle Ama- field Advertising Group, as well Semitism as a still poses a threat. Our work estimation of my net worth. Some offer portunity built in, but that can be a real rone Della Valpolicella Aureum Aci- wine consultant, educator, and writer.assisting victims of anti-Semitism and four to six wines for as little as $5 a positive. After all, think about how num 2013 – Valpolicella is almost His book, Secrets of the Wine Whis-proactively working to create a soci- bottle, while others, like the club run much money-motivated, enterpris- always a blend of three grapes: corvi- perer, is now available on Amazon orety free of bigotry is needed now more by The Wall Street Journal, are obvi- ing people have made with Mary Kay, na, rondinella and molinara. This wine at www.winewhisperer.com. than ever.” ously aiming for a much more well- Pampered Chef or Amway. They win is inky black in the glass, hinting at Florida Regional Chair Scott No- towitz added, “ADL is the leader in the fight against anti-Semitism and all Shavuot and Cheesecake – recipes by Dalia Hemed forms of bigotry, in combatting extrem- havuot is a Jewish holiday that has been perfected over the years. • 1/2 cup half and half ism emanating from the all factions of celebrates the giving of the To- This recipe creates a classic New • 1/4 cup sweetened condensed society. Hate is learned and can be un- rah on Mt. Sinai. The two-day York-style cheesecake. Feel free to milk learned. ADL’s educational programs S are designed to transform attitudes and holiday marks the end of the seven- top it (I’ve provided my strawberry • 1/4 cup baking flour week counting of the Omer – the pe- topping recipe here) or serve it as is. • 2 tsp vanilla have had a significant impact. Through- riod between Passover and the day God It should impress any true cheesecake • Strawberry Topping Ingredients out the State of Florida, ADL will stand delivered the Torah to Moses and the lover. (optional) up and speak out against anti-Semitism Israelites. It took Moses and the Isra- Keep in mind that making this • 1/3 cup water no matter the source.” elites seven weeks of trekking through cheesecake is a long process, so if you • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Florida continues to be in the top the desert to reach Mt. Sinai. Shavuot want to serve it for Shavuot, plan in ad- • 4 tsp cornstarch four states reporting incidents of anti- literally translates to “weeks” in He- vance. • 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries Semitism, with California, New York brew, emphasizing the conclusion of Crust Ingredients: • 1 tbsp lemon juice and New Jersey reporting higher inci- this seven-week journey. • 1 package (16 oz.) Petiber Israeli You will also need: dents. In Florida, there were 137 veri- Shavuot, like most Jewish holi- tea biscuit • Spring form pan, parchment paper, fied incidents of anti-Semitism in 2016, days, has a food component. On Sha- • 1/2 cup walnut pieces food processor, roasting pan for a 50% increase of incidents over the vuot we celebrate dairy foods, and a • 1/4 cup powdered sugar water bath, a teapot previous year’s 91. Florida’s increase dairy holiday is a fantastic excuse to • 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon To make the cheesecake: mirrors the national increase in anti- make one of my favorite indulgences • 1/4 tsp nutmeg XX About 45 minutes before baking, Semitic incidents, which rose from 941 – cheesecake! • Pinch of salt take the cream cheese out of the Personal Chef Dalia Hemed to 1,266. The largest increase in anti- As anybody who bakes regularly • 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter refrigerator so it can return to room can be reached at Semitic incidents in Florida was in the will tell you, cheesecake is an art form. • Cheesecake Ingredients temperature. [email protected]. category of anti-Semitic harassment. It takes many tries to master cheese- • 2 lbs cream cheese (four 8 oz. XX Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. There were 61 incidents of harassment cake, but it is definitely worth the ef- packages) Place a piece of parchment paper pan. Smooth the surface of thein Florida in 2015, nearly doubling to fort. I’m sharing my favorite cheese- • 4 eggs over the bottom of a 9-inch spring cheesecake filling with a spatula or119 in 2016. cake with you here today. It’s a family • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar form pan, then seal the spring form spoon; pop any large bubbles that There was a drop in 2016 of van- recipe that I bake every Shavuot and it • 3/4 cup sour cream pan edge around the base. The base rise to the surface. dalism incidents in Florida, 15 in 2016 should be covered by parchment XX Place the spring form pan onto thecompared to 27 in 2015. The number of paper with edges of the paper stick- middle rack of the oven and bakeanti-Semitic assaults in 2016 remained ing out from the sides of the pan. at 325 degrees F for one hour. unchanged from the previous year. For All Your Southwest Florida This paper will keep the cheese- XX After an hour turn off the heat, The counties with the highest num- cake from sticking to the bottom of and let the cheesecake cool slowlyber of reported incidents in 2016 were Real Estate Needs your pan. Grease the inner sides of inside the oven for 3 hours. ThisPalm Beach with 42, and Miami-Dade the pan with cooking spray, mak- slow cooling will prevent the topand Broward, each with 26. In total, in- ® ing sure the sides are fully coated. of the cake from cracking. cidents were reported in 26 of Florida’s Susan Glasser, Realtor Do not spray the parchment paper XX After 3 hours, remove the pan from67 counties. on the bottom. the oven. Let it return to room tem- In the first quarter of 2017, ADL John R. Wood Properties XX In a food processor, pulse togeth- perature, then place the cheesecakehas already seen 41 incidents in Flor- 15065 McGregor Blvd. #105 er tea biscuit, powdered sugar, in the refrigerator and chill for atida, including seven incidents of van- Fort Myers, FL 33908 chopped walnuts, cinnamon, nut- least 12 hours. Gently remove thedalism and 34 incidents of harassment. Nationally, ADL’s 2016 Audit of In front of Gulf Harbour meg and salt until a crumbly pow- cake from the spring form pan af- der forms. Pour the melted butter ter it is thoroughly chilled. If usingAnti-Semitic Incidents recorded a total over the crumbs and continue to a topping, spread it on after chill-of 1,266 incidents in the United States, [email protected] process for another 10 seconds. ing the cake. Serve cold. an increase of approximately 74 per- Push the crumbs down the sides To make the strawberry topping: cent from the 941 incidents recorded Mobile: (239) 281-3105 of the processor, stir them with a XX In a small saucepan, heat 1/3 cupin 2015. The surge has continued dur- Office: (239) 472-2411 Lee County resident spoon, and continue processing for of water. Slowly dissolve sugaring the first three months of 2017, with for more than 20 years about 10 more seconds. At the end and cornstarch as the water heatspreliminary reports of another 541 in- of processing, crumbs should be up. When mixture boils, add straw- evenly darkened/moistened by the berries. Stir slowly and constantly butter. Press crumb mixture firmly for 4-5 minutes until mixture is in an even layer across the bottom thick, syrupy and bubbly. Remove of the spring form pan. from heat and stir in the lemon XX Thoroughly clean and dry the food juice. Let the topping return to processor. Pulse together all of room temperature, and then place the cheesecake filling ingredients it in the refrigerator to chill for 1 in the food processor, using short hour. Stir well before spreading on 1-second pulses to blend the ingre- top of the cheesecake. dients for about 15 seconds total mixing time. Look for Chef Dalia Hemed’s XX Pour the cheesecake filling care- recipes each month in the fully into the prepared spring form pages of L’CHAYIM. L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 13 ADL finds that anti-Semitic incidents in Florida spike in 2017 after surging last year ccording to the Anti-Defa- cidents, putting this year on pace for munity. The Audit includes in its totals three swastikas were spray-painted at mation League’s (ADL) an- more than 2,000 incidents. swastikas and hate symbols that tar- Lake Brantley High School. Anual Audit of Anti-Semitic In 2016, the 1,266 anti-Semitic in- geted Jewish property or communal Boca Raton: In February 2017, Incidents released April 24, there has cidents included: institutions. Notably, this year, a great parents became extremely concerned been a massive increase in incidents 720 harassment and threat inci- deal of vandalisms – particularly in as images of swastikas etched into targeting American Jews. The annual dents, an increase of 41 percent schools – incorporated Holocaust and the door of a school bathroom stall at ADL Audit encompasses criminal and over 2015 Nazi-themed imagery. Omni Middle School went viral online. non-criminal incidents reported to the 510 vandalism incidents, an in- Parkland: On the eve of Rosh Ha- Immediately, ADL reached out to the ADL Florida office, law enforcement, crease of 35 percent shanah, the Chabad Jewish Center in school to avail them of our resourc- media or other sources. These include 36 physical assault incidents, a de- Parkland was vandalized with anti- es. The school district mandated that incidents of vandalism, assault and ha- crease of 35 percent Israel and anti-Semitic graffiti. ADL all students (1,400) participate in an rassment targeting Jewish individuals In the first quarter of 2017, prelim- offered a match to the CrimeStoppers ADL-led conversation about identity- and institutions. inary reports of the 541 anti-Semitic Reward for information leading to an based bias and the anti-Semitic his- Florida Jewish institutions re- incidents include: arrest. tory of the swastika. This school will ceived 17 bomb threats this year. As 380 harassment incidents, includ- Boca Raton: In December 2016, a become a No Place For Hate® school the arrests that have been made in these ing 161 bomb threats, an increase woman in Boca Raton woke up to an this fall. bomb threats reveal, many anti-Semitic of 127 percent over the same quar- anti-Semitic graphic depiction of a Jew About the ADL Audit incidents were not carried out by orga- ter in 2016 taped to her front door. The picture de- ADL has been tracking anti-Semitic in- nized extremists. 155 vandalism incidents, including notes a stereotypical portrait of a Jew- cidents in the United States since 1979. “There is no doubt that anti-Sem- three cemetery desecrations, an in- ish man with a large nose and a schem- The audit includes both criminal and itism is still deeply embedded in our crease of 36 percent ing demeanor. non-criminal incidents of harassment society. The increase in its manifesta- Six physical assault incidents, a Clearwater: In January 2017, and intimidation, including distribution tions is sobering, and should alarm us decrease of 40 percent Temple B’nai Israel, Congregation of hate propaganda, threats and slurs. all,” said Yael Hershfield, ADL Florida Selected Florida incidents Beth Shalom and Chabad of Clearwa- Compiled using information provided Interim Regional Director. “This year’s Assaults: ter were vandalized with anti-Semitic by victims, law enforcement and com- audit is a painful reminder that anti- St. Petersburg: In November a man graffiti. One of the markings uses the munity leaders and evaluated by ADL’s Semitism still poses a threat. Our work was accosted by someone who told numeric symbol 1488: the combina- professional staff, the Audit provides assisting victims of anti-Semitism and him, “Trump is going to finish what tion of two common white supremacist an annual snapshot of one specific as- proactively working to create a soci- Hitler started.” This incident reflects a numeric symbols: 1) 14 (shorthand for pect of a nationwide problem while ety free of bigotry is needed now more pattern related to the heightened politi- the “14 Words” slogan: “We must se- identifying possible trends or changes than ever.” cal atmosphere and rhetoric during the cure the existence of our people and a in the types of activity reported. This Florida Regional Chair Scott No- 2016 presidential election. There were future for white children”) and 2) 88 information assists ADL in developing towitz added, “ADL is the leader in 34 incidents nationwide linked to the (standing for “Heil Hitler”). and enhancing its programs to counter the fight against anti-Semitism and all election. Boca Raton: In February 2017, a and prevent the spread of anti-Semi- forms of bigotry, in combatting extrem- Harassment and threats: car in a predominantly Jewish neigh- tism and other forms of bigotry. ism emanating from the all factions of Incidents included verbal attacks and borhood in Boca Raton was vandal- The Anti-Defamation League, society. Hate is learned and can be un- slurs against Jewish individuals (or in- ized with a swastika. ADL contributed founded in 1913, is the world’s leading learned. ADL’s educational programs dividuals perceived to be Jewish) and to the CrimeStoppers reward for in- organization fighting anti-Semitism are designed to transform attitudes and anti-Semitism conveyed in written or formation leading to the arrest of the through programs and services that have had a significant impact. Through- electronic communications. perpetrator(s). counteract hatred, prejudice and big- out the State of Florida, ADL will stand Throughout 2016 and into 2017, Naples: In December 2016, the otry. up and speak out against anti-Semitism numerous Jewish institutions in Flori- front sign of Temple Shalom of Naples Follow us on Facebook at www. no matter the source.” da and around the nation received an- was hit with what appears to be a shot- facebook.com/ADL.Florida. For more Florida continues to be in the top ti-Semitic and harassing faxes. Some gun blast. information, visit florida.adl.org. four states reporting incidents of anti- staff members and affiliated leaders Altamonte Springs: In May 2016, Semitism, with California, New York received them at their home and office and New Jersey reporting higher inci- fax machines. dents. In Florida, there were 137 veri- Even college campuses received fied incidents of anti-Semitism in 2016, these faxes. Some of these faxes have a 50% increase of incidents over the been attributed by authorities to a previous year’s 91. Florida’s increase hacker by the name of Andrew Auern- mirrors the national increase in anti- heimer. He is an unabashed racist and Semitic incidents, which rose from 941 anti-Semite, who claimed credit for ex- Personal Chef Dalia Hemed to 1,266. The largest increase in anti- ploiting network printers/fax machines can be reached at Semitic incidents in Florida was in the to print racist and anti-Semitic flyers. [email protected]. category of anti-Semitic harassment. In a Twitter post in August 2016, Au- There were 61 incidents of harassment ernheimer claimed to have exploit- in Florida in 2015, nearly doubling to ed 50,000 printers to print his latest 119 in 2016. flyer. There was a drop in 2016 of van- Clearwater: In March 2016, an of- dalism incidents in Florida, 15 in 2016 fice manager at a construction compa- compared to 27 in 2015. The number of ny had to terminate an employee after anti-Semitic assaults in 2016 remained serious infractions. She reached out to unchanged from the previous year. the individual in order to arrange for The counties with the highest num- him to sign his termination papers, and ber of reported incidents in 2016 were received text messages in response, Palm Beach with 42, and Miami-Dade including “*$%& you u stupid Jew and Broward, each with 26. In total, in- bitch.” cidents were reported in 26 of Florida’s Tallahassee: In December, students 67 counties. at SAIL high school formed a ‘human In the first quarter of 2017, ADL swastika’ on school grounds. Accord- has already seen 41 incidents in Flor- ing to media reports, parents indicated ida, including seven incidents of van- that there were prior incidents of anti- dalism and 34 incidents of harassment. Semitic remarks among students. Nationally, ADL’s 2016 Audit of Vandalism: Anti-Semitic Incidents recorded a total Vandalism incidents are individually of 1,266 incidents in the United States, evaluated by ADL and are categorized an increase of approximately 74 per- as anti-Semitic based on the presence cent from the 941 incidents recorded of anti-Semitic symbols or language; in 2015. The surge has continued dur- the identity of the perpetrator(s), if ing the first three months of 2017, with known; and the target of the vandal- preliminary reports of another 541 in- ism and the impact to the Jewish com- Like us on Facebook! ConneCt with your Jewish Community www.facebook.com/ CampoSeniorLiving.com Look for Chef Dalia Hemed’s facebook.com/jfedsrq recipes each month in the JewishFederationLCC pages of L’CHAYIM. L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 14 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD 10 ways Israel’s water expertise is helping the world To celebrate World Water Day on March 22, ISRAEL21c takes a look at 10 water innovation projects bringing clean water to communities across the world. By Abigail Klein Leichman, ISRAEL21c, www.israel21c.org, March 20, 2017 sing ingenuity to overcome its ricultural and municipal water infra- gravity systems. treatment products to African nations serious water challenges, Isra- structure in countries including Ango- In Kenya’s Kakuma Refugee for more than 20 years. In 2016, MFA Uel has become the go-to expert la, Ghana, Serbia, China, Spain and the Camp and Uganda’s Gulu township, donated G.A.L. mobile water purifica- for a world facing an impending water United States. which struggle with waterborne dis- tion, storage and distribution vehicles crisis. On World Water Day, which is ease and water contamination, IsraAID to drought-stricken Papua New Guinea This year’s WATEC expo and con- celebrated on March 22, ISRAEL21c trains unemployed or underemployed and to the Pacific Marshall Islands. ference, to be held in September in salutes the Israeli governmental and people to be water technicians. Gradu- 5. Earlier this month, the MFA’s Tel Aviv, is expected to attract 10,000 non-governmental organizations that ates work with local NGOs or water MASHAV-Israeli Agency for Interna- stakeholders from 90 countries seeking share advanced homegrown water companies, or start their own business- tional Development Cooperation es- Israeli solutions for water issues. technologies for irrigation, purifica- es, to contribute their new expertise in tablished the Kenya Israel Drought Re- Israel exports $2.2 billion annually tion, filtering, desalination, conserva- anything from drilling wells and build- silience Agriculture Center to help in in water technology and expertise. In tion, monitoring and recycling. ing latrines to teaching hygiene. capacity building with the latest Israeli addition, these commodities are shared Here are 10 recent examples: 3. A massive landslide in Septem- irrigation and water-resources manage- on a humanitarian basis through train- 1. The nonprofit group Innovation: ber 2015 damaged a major irrigation ment knowhow. ing courses, consultations and projects. Africa won a UN award for transform- canal partially built by Israeli NGO 6. MASHAV’s special envoy for Keren Kayemeth L’Israel-Jewish ing lives in seven African countries Tevel b’Tzedek in an impoverished water and food security went to Swa- National Fund (KKL-JNF) often hosts using Israeli technologies such as Ne- Nepali village. Tevel staff repaired the ziland last week with the director of delegations from around the world – tafim irrigation systems enabling farm- damage with funding from the Roch- overseas training, programs and re- most recently, from California, Argen- ers to grow more crops with less water; lin Foundation and Jewish Coalition search at MASHAV-affiliated Center tina and the European Policy Center and solar energy systems that pump for Disaster Relief, and worked with for International Agricultural Devel- – to see how Israel’s system of treat- water from aquifers, saving villagers the local water council to strengthen opment Cooperation to conduct a wa- ment facilities and 230 reservoirs has (mostly women and children) count- the canal walls, reestablishing and ter survey by request of Swaziland’s PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS achieved the world’s highest ratio of less hours previously spent finding and assuring water supply to 224 house- prime minister. The experts are identi- wastewater reuse. fetching water. holds (about 1,300 people) and subsis- fying possible areas of cooperation in WHO SUPPORT OUR FEDERATION About 92% of Israeli wastewater 2. IsraAID launched its WASH tence farmers. combatting drought and a shortage of gets treated and 75% is used for agri- (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) proj- Also in Nepal, Tevel is fighting the water for agriculture. cultural irrigation. Israel plans to recy- ect about four years ago to tailor-make effects of flash floods – which deplete 7. Following a May 2016 earth- & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE. cle 95% of its wastewater for irrigation solutions for communities from Fiji to water available for drinking and irriga- quake in Ecuador, IsraAID brought by the end of 2025. Haiti to Myanmar. tion — by building irrigation pools and a new Israeli water-purification tech- “During the 1980s, recycling In the rain-dependent South Pacific setting up zero water waste systems nology from NUFiltration to several wastewater was a revolutionary con- island nation of Vanuatu, a March 2014 enabling villagers to conserve water affected villages. Instead of having to cept and many people were skeptical. cyclone contaminated reservoirs and through Israeli methods, including drip buy bottled drinking water, residents Today, nearly half of the irrigation in destroyed water harvesting systems. irrigation learned by Tevel’s native can use the NUF system to turn wash- Israel comes from recycled waste- Among other steps, IsraAID strat- Nepal director at Ben-Gurion Univer- ing water into purified drinking water water,” says KKL-JNF Development egized the engineering of a low-tech sity of the Negev. Tevel also is teach- without electricity. NUF was first -pi Project Director Yossi Schreiber. gravity system, built and maintained ing village farmers less water-intensive loted by the company in Ghana as a hu- Large Israeli water-tech companies by locals, to bring water from moun- professions, such as beekeeping. manitarian project to prevent diseases such as Mekorot, Arad Technologies, tain springs down into two villages en- 4. Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Af- from contaminated water. Tahal Group, Plasson Industries and compassing more than 600 people and fairs (MFA) has partnered with Caesar- 8. The Tel Aviv University chapter Ham-let – plus many smaller Israeli one school. IsraAID is working with ea-based G.A.L. Water Technologies of Engineers without Borders designed firms – are planning and building ag- the World Bank to construct three more (gal-water.com) to provide free water- continued on next page
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continued from previous page and built a rainwater collection and pu- curity challenges. The agreement has rification system in a Tanzanian village included two years of study tours and where the drinking water had danger- other activities for World Bank staff ously high amounts of fluoride. Since and officials of various governments. the project was finished in 2014, it has “Israel has had to manage water treatment products to African nationsbeen supplying safe drinking water to services while operating under extreme for more than 20 years. In 2016, MFA more than 400 children daily. scarcity conditions, and has done so donated G.A.L. mobile water purifica- 9. The Technion Engineers without very impressively,” said Jennifer Sara, tion, storage and distribution vehiclesBorders chapter designed and imple- director for water at the World Bank, at to drought-stricken Papua New Guineamented a safe drinking-water sys- the agreement signing in Washington. and to the Pacific Marshall Islands. tem serving more than 600 Ethiopian “Its innovative practices are globally 5. Earlier this month, the MFA’s schoolchildren in a rural village with recognized – both from technological MASHAV-Israeli Agency for Interna-no reliable source of water for drinking and institutional perspectives – and will tional Development Cooperation es-and handwashing. The Israelis taught undoubtedly carry lessons for many of Needed to label L’Chayim the older children how to maintain the the World Bank Group’s clients facing tablished the Kenya Israel Drought Re- join us for coffee, bagels and the simple satisfaction silience Agriculture Center to help insystem and treat the water, and contin- water security challenges.” that comes from meeting and making friends with capacity building with the latest Israeliue to provide support to assure a safe Abigail Klein Leichman is a writer and irrigation and water-resources manage-and sustainable water supply. associate editor at ISRAEL21c. Prior other volunteers, as we help keep thousands of local ment knowhow. 10. In June 2015, the Israeli Min- to moving to Israel in 2007, she was readers informed about local, national and interna- 6. MASHAV’s special envoy for istry of Economy committed $500,000 a specialty writer and copy editor at a tional Jewish news. water and food security went to Swa-to the World Bank Group’s Water daily newspaper in New Jersey and has ziland last week with the director ofGlobal Practice to help developing freelanced for a variety of newspapers countries overcome complex water se- and periodicals since 1984. overseas training, programs and re- Call 481.4449 ext. 3 to add your name to the search at MASHAV-affiliated Center phone list. Each month we will call to confirm for International Agricultural Devel- the mailing date and you can let us know if opment Cooperation to conduct a wa- PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS you are available to help label L’CHAYIM. ter survey by request of Swaziland’s prime minister. The experts are identi- Time: 9:30 A.M. fying possible areas of cooperation in WHO SUPPORT OUR FEDERATION combatting drought and a shortage of Monday, June 26, 2017 water for agriculture. Monday, July 24, 2017 7. Following a May 2016 earth- & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE. quake in Ecuador, IsraAID brought a new Israeli water-purification tech- nology from NUFiltration to several affected villages. Instead of having to buy bottled drinking water, residents can use the NUF system to turn wash- ADRIENNE WEINER ing water into purified drinking water Broker-Associate Certified Public Accountants/Financial Consultants without electricity. NUF was first pi- ® Charles Abels Massie CPA, CFP® loted by the company in Ghana as a hu- Realty Group Brian Simon, ChFC®, CLU® NFLPA Registered Player Financial Advisor manitarian project to prevent diseases 7910 Summerlin Lakes Drive Financial Advisor, Park Avenue Securities, LLC Fort Myers, FL 33907 15671 San Carlos Blvd. Ste 201 O: 239-768-2171 from contaminated water. Cell: (239) 246-4991 Fort Myers, FL 33908 F: 239-768-6074 Office: (239) 489-0444 • Fax: (239) 288-6727 8. The Tel Aviv University chapter Email: [email protected] www.cpamassie.com [email protected] www.soldsign.com of Engineers without Borders designed www.AdrienneWeiner.com “We Save Your Income for You to Enjoy Your Outcome” Each Office Independently Owned and Operated
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As of 2015 there were an estimated tion presented proposals on how the in- 14.41 million Jews in the world, 43% ternational community can contribute BRIEFS of whom lived in Israel. (Ofer Aderet, and assist in several of these important Ha’aretz) projects that will significantly improve ISRAEL’S POPULATION Jewish, 20.8% (1.808 million) are Arab the quality of life for Palestinians, asNews that’s fit to print? HITS 8.7 MILLION ON EVE – both Muslim and Christian – while EL AL IS TAKING OFF well as provide a boost to economic OF 69TH INDEPENDENCE the remaining 4.5% (388,000) are non- FROM MIAMI growth. Arab Christians, members of other reli- El Al recently announced that Miami, COGAT projects involve such DAY gions or people of no religion. Israel’s population is 8.68 million – Florida, will be its newest gateway fields as electricity, water and sewage There are also 183,000 foreign na- more than 10 times what it was when city, the sixth in North America. The infrastructure, and Palestinian employ- tionals living in Israel. In the past year, the state was founded in 1948, the nonstop service will launch in Novem- ment and improvement of the cross- 174,000 babies were born in Israel and Central Bureau of Statistics announced ber 2017 on Boeing 777 aircraft and ings. COGAT’s objective is to promote 30,000 people immigrated to the coun- April 27. include three weekly roundtrip flights the civilian interests of Palestinians try. Some 74.7% (6.484 million) are with excellent departure times. Tickets in order to improve their quality of for travel on this route were scheduled life, and thereby bring about stability to become available for sale begin- and prosperity for the general public. ning mid-May, subject to government (COGAT) approval. For more information, visit www.elal.com. RECORD INCOMING TOURISM TO ISRAEL IN Q1 ISRAEL PRESENTS The number of tourists com- THE INTERNATIONAL ing from abroad to Israel reached an COMMUNITY WITH all-time record of 739,000 in the first PROJECTS FOR THE quarter of 2017, up 24% from the cor- Ronny S Taschner DDS BENEFIT OF PALESTINIANS responding quarter of last year, the Ministry of Tourism reports. Active Member of the American Academy of Periodontology At a meeting of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee on May 3, IDF Col. Hatib In March alone, 293,000 tourists Mansour, head of the Civil Department reached Israel, up 22% from March Jennifer Taschner DDS MMSc of the office for Coordination of Gov- 2016. (Globes) Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology ernment Activities in the Territories For daily news stories related to (COGAT), presented the various proj- Israel & the Jewish world, ects that Israel is promoting in Judea, visit the Federation’s website at Samaria and Gaza. The Israeli delega- www.JewishFederationLCC.org.
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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. News that’s fit to print? In praise of praise By Jean Campaiola Harris, May 2, 2017 ark Twain once observed: to a plant. It makes it grow. n April 17, The New York On the day I read the Barghouti ar- “One can live for two months The truth is, we all need praise and Times published an opinion ticle, I was visiting my family in Bos- on a good compliment.” The approval in order to bring out the best piece by Marwan Barghouti. ton. April 17 was Patriot’s Day in Mas- M O Japanese have the following saying: that is in us. An employer will find that For those who don’t know, Barg- sachusetts, the annual running of the “One kind word can warm winter for an employee does much better if, from houti is serving five life sentences for Boston Marathon. It is always a huge three months.” time to time, he or she hears a word of five counts of murder. He is the found- event, but since 2013, it carries a spe- In an interesting appreciation. A good teacher knows er of Fatah’s Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigade. cial, somber significance. It was four psychological ex- that praise is important to the student’s Barghouti is imprisoned in Israel years ago that the Tsarnaev brothers periment, students in learning. In the parent-child relation- for murders committed during the Sec- planted pressure-cooker bombs at the a famous university ship, praise for the parent and the child ond Intifada. These attacks began in finish line of the race in order to mur- were divided into are vital for a good harmonious family. 2000, after Prime Minister Barak and der as many bystanders as possible. three groups. One We know that artists performing President Clinton offered Yassir Arafat They killed four people, wounded group was offered on stage thrive on public acclaim. The a Palestinian state. Instead of estab- hundreds more and maimed dozens Rabbi encouragement and clapping of the audience is music to lishing a new country, Arafat directed for life. The city was on lockdown for Solomon praise. The second the ears of the performer as he or she Barghouti to kill Israelis in discos, piz- days as law enforcement hunted for the Agin group was virtually stands on the stage after entertaining or za parlors, malls and on buses. Bargh- killers. The terrorists hit Boston at the ignored. The third was given nothing inspiring. In every period of life each outi was convicted of directing attacks heart of the city during one of its most but criticism. The results were predict- one of us needs the sounds of private which killed 76 people. beloved events. able: The ignored group made the least and public applause, which are music This is the man The New York I couldn’t help but wonder about progress; the criticized group made to our ears and strength to our egos. Times publishes and identifies simply the reaction if a newspaper had given some progress; but the group that Rabbi Solomon Agin serves at Temple as “a Palestinian leader and Parliamen- Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, the surviving ter- was praised achieved the best results. Shalom in Port Charlotte. tarian.” rorist, a prominent forum to express his Praise to a person is what sunshine is It is true that he is a member of Fa- complaints about the court proceedings tah, the political party of the PA. But in Boston, or his view of the conditions it is also true that his Martyrs Brigade at the maximum-security prison in Our place in America and is designated by the United States as a Colorado, or his objection to his death terrorist organization. And it is undeni- penalty sentence, and identified him in ably true that he is a convicted murder- the byline as a “student.” in its essential goodness lose to a half century ago I who served in World War I and then er. To call him a member of Parliament The comparison is sobering, and had the very great privilege watched America battle the forces of is no simple error. It is, as Member of appalling. The only difference between of studying with Rabbi Dr. Ja- darkness in World War II, naturally Knesset Yair Lapid phrased it, “an in- the two mass murderers is that Tsvar- C cob Rader Marcus, the dean of Ameri- viewed America as a powerful force tentional deception.” naev killed civilians in Boston, and can Jewish historians and founder of for good in the world, and had diffi- In his essay, Barghouti complains Barghouti killed civilians in Israel. the American Jewish Archives which culty embracing positions that were in about the “illegal” Israeli judicial sys- If there is a clearer example of the now bears his name. Professor Mar- opposition to its government. tem, deplores “inhumane” conditions double standard the Times uses when it cus was the author What is more, as a scholar of Jews at his prison, and spins graphic tales comes to Israel, I don’t know it. No one of the classic 3-vol- in America from its very beginnings, of prisoner torture, all the while por- disputes that the murder of innocents ume work, The Co- Dr. Marcus, perhaps more than any- traying himself as a freedom fighter. in Boston was pure evil. But the mur- lonial American Jew, one else, deeply appreciated the unique Unsurprisingly, he omits his murder der of Israelis by a Palestinian with po- and some faculty freedoms and security this country has convictions and terror activities. litical grievances? For those who have quipped the he knew afforded us, and felt that we owed it In response to a rash of letters lost the distinction between right and many of them per- a special debt of patriotism in return. and posts on social media, Times pub- wrong, this is seen as “resistance.” sonally, since he Hence his dogmatic maxim about fol- lic editor Liz Spayd called the Times Even for L’CHAYIM, I know I must Rabbi was well into his 80s lowing its flag. editors to task: “I have written before present facts truthfully and express Bruce when he taught our Of course, our revered teacher, like on the need to more fully identify the my opinion respectfully. And should Diamond class. the rest of us, had just endured the Nix- biography and credentials of authors, I write anything false or offensive, the As you might imagine, Professor on “end-game,” and fully understood especially details that help people make editor will not publish my article, nor Marcus was definitely “old school,” that there are times when America is judgments about the opinions they’re should he. but hardly dour. Among the many saddled with deeply flawed leadership. reading. Do the authors of the pieces Yet the Times does not honor this nuggets of advice he gave us was: But he never wanted us to surrender have any conflicts of interest that could code. Its editors know who Barghouti “Gentlemen (there were a smattering our love of country to despair and cyni- challenge their credibility? Are they is and what he has done, and intention- of women rabbinical students in our cism. In fact, he inspired his students who they say they are, and can editors ally sanitize his criminal history. They class to which he seemed oblivious), in with the profound understanding that it vouch for their fidelity?” show no ethical qualms about publish- the summer you may loosen the low- was precisely our patriotism that must Two days later the Times added an ing him, nor any need to fact check his est button of your vests.” But the one compel us to resist the “barbarians at Editor’s Note, indicating that Barghouti outlandish claims. Even after push- he often repeated with the greatest ear- the gate” and never surrender the field was serving time for murder. But they back, they echo Barghouti’s slanders. nestness was: “Boys, remember this: to them. also felt compelled to add that Bargh- Many have written famously from In America, the synagogue always fol- Hope is at bedrock of my reli- outi “declined to offer a defense at his prison. We take heart from the writings lows the flag!” gious life, and hope is the thread that trial and refused to recognize the Israe- of heroes like Natan Sharansky and I suspect he stressed this over and runs through everything I teach, preach li court’s jurisdiction and legitimacy.” Vaclav Havel, who were wrongly im- over again because we were just com- and write. In no small measure, it was Talk about vouching for his fidel- prisoned for political opinions. But ing out of the Vietnam War, and very Rabbi Marcus who planted in me this ity. Not only does the Times double even the editors of the country’s “pa- many rabbis had used their pulpits to hope bordering on confidence about down on its decision to publish Bargh- per of record” cannot change Marwan vociferously oppose it, and both the our place in America and in its essen- outi, but by repeating Barghouti’s own Barghouti from an unrepentant mur- leadership of the Union of American tial goodness. words criticizing Israel’s judiciary, derer into a Nelson Mandela. Hebrew Congregations and Central Rabbi Bruce Diamond serves at The they buttress his notion that his convic- By elevating Barghouti from ter- Conference of American Rabbis it- Community Free Synagogue in Fort tion was perhaps not so legitimate. rorist to “Parliamentarian,” by provid- self had gone on record strongly con- Myers. You have to wonder why The New ing a platform for his falsehoods and demning that war. Professor Marcus, York Times, already struggling with amplifying his calumny against Israel, credibility, would provide one of the The New York Times fails the mission most prominent platforms in the Eng- on its own masthead. Join me in telling lish-speaking world for a murderer to The New York Times: This propaganda Center for Judaic, Holocaust, spread his lies about Israel. is unfit to print. and Genocide Studies Dedicated to educating all sectors of society about Jewish civilization, the Holocaust, and genocide through: • scholarship • outreach • inquiry • sharing knowledge • preserving the record • helping teachers • encouraging students
Visit www.fgcu.edu/hc/ Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 18 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties FROM THE BIMAH / YOUTH
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. God’s résumé God celebrates magine if the job of God were va- 5. But also destructive – the Flood cant, now or originally. Who would 6. He loves us; we are His chosen fa- our challenges Iapply? More important, what vorites f you learn only one passage of lower grades, we teach children to read would be the job description? 7. He is often tough and unforgiving. Talmud, it should be the Oven of Hebrew and be fluent with a siddur. I One cannot for- Moses exclusion! Achnai. There are a few things we want the children of my congregation get or minimize that 8. He is a worrier – about the poor, I don’t know: Is “Achnai” the name of a to be able to walk into a synagogue at this is not an across orphans, widows, the stranger person or place? Or, perhaps is it a style any time in their lives and feel at home the board Divinity 9. He loves animals, especially cam- of oven? We’re also not sure about the there. I want them to be at home with but a Jewish God, els substance of the dis- Jewish ceremony, whether it is lighting which should alert 10. He is hospitable cussion – what ex- Shabbat or Chanukah candles or recit- you in advance to 11. He is unknown and perhaps un- actly makes the oven ing the Four Questions. some final hard ne- knowable; we do not even know impure? But all this Since it’s a sense of “home” that Rabbi gotiations. what He looks like is beside the point. we cultivate in our children, we must Devora Typically, the 12. He imposes limits; He has high Buchen In the Oven of Ach- also teach them about Israel and the present occupant standards – 613 nai passage, Rabbi Jewish people. Every one of our class- would serve as a model. Here then are 13. He is One and nothing else Eliezer, the head of rooms has a map of Israel on the wall. the essential requirements: Conclusion: The job may be too Rabbi the academy, says It is one of the pillars of our curricu- 1. Enigmatic, intentionally? A trans- hard to fill, so we better stay with what Marc that the law is one lum. parent enigma? we have. After all, we are not strang- Sack way, while Rabbi But what about post-bar or bat 2. Not an extrovert ers to each other. Besides, we could do Joshua and the other rabbis say it is the mitzvah? What do we want these chil- 3. He knows us and therefore does worse. other way. Rabbi Eliezer invokes mir- dren to take away from their Jewish ed- not trust us Rabbi Devora Buchen serves at Temple acle after miracle, all of which clearly ucation? This is where Oven of Achnai 4. He is creative – Genesis Beth Shalom in Cape Coral. come from God, and the rabbis contin- comes in. I want our students to learn ue to disagree with him. Finally, Rabbi that God celebrates serious questions Eliezer calls on a voice from Heaven about our tradition. I want their Jew- Your summer reading list to decide the law, whereupon a voice ish foundation to be strong enough to hat projects do you have and guidance, but we also have a long from Heaven declares that the law is weather any challenge or doubt they planned for the summer? tradition of Jewish commentary, inter- according to Rabbi Eliezer. But Rabbi might bring. Renovations around the pretation and stories. Joshua and the others, saying that the So we teach these students differ- W Torah is no longer decided in Heaven, ently. We give them original source house, travel, research for work, or- The Jewish Book Council is a ganizing and cleaning are all common 92-year-old institution dedicated to override God and Rabbi Eliezer. The material and ask them what they think. goals for the long days of summer. promoting quality Jewish content punchline of the story is even better. We encourage discussion and debate. Another favor- books. It has compiled an incredible The Talmud says that shortly after this We leave some questions unresolved. ite summer activity reading list with categories from A episode, a rabbi encounters Elijah the I am not afraid to tell my students “I is summer reading. (Aging) to Z (Yom HaZikaron, Israel prophet and asks him, “What did God don’t know.” Do you have a sum- Remembrance Day). It has reading do when the rabbis rejected His opin- In addition to synagogue, ceremo- mer reading list? A lists for a wide range of topics such ion?” Elijah replies, “God laughed, ny and people, I want our children to be stack of books to as Father’s Day, Interfaith Families, saying, “‘My children have defeated at home in the world of Jewish think- take to the beach? Lower East Side and Yoga, along with Me. My children have defeated Me.’” ing. I want their relationship to our tra- Books you’ve been Jewish holidays. Check out its reading This passage comes to mind when dition to be open to growth throughout Rabbi meaning to read all lists at http://www.jewishbookcoun- I think about our goals for Jewish edu- their lives. According to Oven of Ach- Nicole year? Whether they cil.org and pick out a Jewish book to cation. Just to be clear, I believe educa- nai, God celebrates our challenges. I Luna are guilty pleasures add to your summer reading list. In the tion is a lifelong Jewish commitment, hope we give our children that depth of or serious reads, books can entertain, midst of your travel plans and summer for rabbis and laypeople alike. For the commitment. teach and comfort us. activities, don’t forget to dedicate time purpose of this article, I will focus on Rabbi Marc Sack serves at Temple Elie Wiesel, a Jewish Holocaust to ready and study. Hillel says in Pirkei the education of children. For those in Judea in Fort Myers. survivor and acclaimed author who Avot 2:4: “Do not say: ‘When I have died just a year ago, said, “I do not re- free time, I will study,’ for perhaps you Read the current and recent issues of L’CHAYIM call a Jewish home without a book on will never have free time.” the table.” As people of the book, we Rabbi Nicole Luna serves at Temple online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org. read and study Torah for inspiration Beth El in Fort Myers. First Jewish online high school opens Posnack Virtual School brings first-class general and Jewish education to students throughout Florida avid Posnack Jewish Day directed learning, but most students About David Posnack and rigorous dual-curriculum that com- School, a top-five private have better learning outcomes when Jewish Day School bines the best of general and Jewish ed- school in Davie, Florida, has studying with a live teacher, interact- Founded in 1974, David Posnack Jew- ucation. In 2017, Posnack School was D rd th announced the opening of Posnack ing with other students,” explained Dr. ish Day School (Posnack School) is the named the 3 best K-12 school and 4 Virtual School (PVS), a live, online Brandon Diamond, Posnack Virtual premier K-12 college preparatory Jew- best high school in Florida by school private Jewish high school. School’s principal. “Our format will ish day school in the State of Florida. ranking organization Niche.com. PVS offers Jewish students the op- allow Jewish students who do not live Posnack School offers an innovative portunity to study at the Florida’s high- near a Jewish high school to get the est-ranked Jewish high school. PVS same quality education as the students students learn in real time, using tech- in our brick-and-mortar school.” nology to interact live with teachers Posnack Virtual School will be and fellow Posnack School students. open to students living in Florida north Earn CAS Credits As an example, Posnack Virtual stu- of Boca Raton, south of Downtown dents enrolled in an honors class meet- Miami, or west of the Everglades, and The Jewish Federation of Lee ing at 10:00 a.m. attend the class vir- to students living in select other states. and Charlotte Counties is tually alongside other Posnack Virtual Jewish students in these areas are not interested in hearing from honors students. PVS students receive currently served by a Jewish high a full college preparatory curriculum in school. Posnack Virtual School will teenagers in high school addition to taking Hebrew and Judaic provide unprecedented learning oppor- who might like to earn CAS Studies classes. tunities to Jewish high school students credits though various work “There are many options for self- living in those areas. in the Jewish community. If you are interested, please send the following information to [email protected]: Name Address Phone # Age Grade School Preferred volunteer hours (e.g. 2 - 5P.M. Sundays) L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 FOCUS ON YOUTH Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 19
bitious endeavor where pier having her here at TEMPLE JUDEA SCHOOLS they cooked a very tra- TEMPLE BETH EL SCHOOLS Temple Beth El. We are Fort Myers ditional Israeli meal of Fort Myers looking forward to work- falafel and Israeli salad ing with her for many God celebrates Liz Singer, for the entire school. Temple Beth El Religious School years to come! Director of Congregational Learning Abbie Grossman taught about the Dale M. Cohen, R.J.E., MA, Educ. I would like to take this opportu- our challenges What a great school year we had! The land of Israel, which included doing an Religious School Director nity to thank Vanessa Sax (Vice Presi- past month of Religious School the in-depth study on various cities. Some Dear Parents of the Religious School, dent of Education) and Karen Kagan. high schoolers were in charge and de- students did a version of the TV show During the summer months, the Re- They are two remarkable (humble) veloped lesson plans featuring various Shark Tank where they had to learn ligious School will be busy planning women whose dedication and unend- subjects connected to the theme of Is- about a city and sell then benefits of new and wonderful programs as well ing support of our Religious School rael. They then taught their lessons to the city to the investor that they were as ordering materials. In addition, we is boundless. They both spend endless the other classes. This taught the teens presenting to. The younger students will be reviewing and revising the cur- hours “behind the scenes” and “on the how to research, learn the subject, and riculum, conferencing with teachers scenes.” There are truly no words to plan different lessons for a variety of and assistants, and planning for anoth- express how grateful I am, and all of ages. The hope is that they will con- er great year! us should be for their unwavering sup- tinue to get more teaching experience As I reflect back on this year at port! We are truly blessed to be able to during their remaining years at Temple TBE, we have had fabulous programs: work with such competent and loyal Judea so that they might learn transfer- from the Passover Exodus Walk, to our women! able skills and can teach religious school Purim play, to the community-wide Our teaching staff, assistants and wherever they find themselves next. family picnic, to our variety of confir- volunteers are truly second to one. Gabe Bendetowicz taught about mation field trips. We experienced the Most staff members have been with me the history of Israel. His lesson focused L’Taken Confirmation trip to Wash- for at least 15-20 years. The consisten- on children living during the time of ington, D.C., enjoyed our Yom Kippur cy is truly remarkable. We are a family Israel’s independence, and what life N’eilah Service, Joanie Leeds concert, here at Temple Beth El, and our staff was like for them. He also introduced Rabbi Nicole Luna’s Installation and is loyal, dedicated, caring, competent, students to Israeli heroes like Golda so much more. We put our students’ flexible and always willing to try new Meir and David Ben-Gurion. education first, and are always looking things. Every day, I count my blessings Sander Simon taught about the Ari Kleiman, Noah Moon and Josh Fox to improve. I believe that is what truly for such a remarkable team. food of Israel. This started with a les- dig into homemade challah sets us apart from all others. You will be receiving your regis- son on baking challah, something that watched Shalom Sesame (Sesame We had an exceptional year with tration forms for the 2017/2018 school we hope to continue as a weekly tra- Street in Israel) and other videos fea- Rabbi Nicole Luna. She has been an year. Please fill them out at your earli- dition in the upcoming year. The fol- turing children giving a tour of Israel. incredible addition to our temple and est convenience so that we can order lowing week students made bourekas, Another lesson was an online applica- has added her extremely successful the appropriate amount of books and a Yemenite food that is a type of cheese tion which featured a 360-degree tour Tot Shabbat program. She brought our materials for the students. Your contin- pie. The final week students had an am- of Jerusalem. All of these were very Confirmation program to a completely ued cooperation is greatly appreciated. creative ways to introduce students to new level, and we are so excited about We hope that all of you are enjoy- the landscape and diversity within the the launch of our brand new “Hebrew ing a happy and a safe summer and cities of Israel. Chai Program” beginning in Septem- look forward to seeing you back in Helen Baxter taught about the mu- ber. Rabbi Luna is an absolute pleasure August. sic of Israel. Students learned how to to work with and we could not be hap- sing Israel’s National anthem, “Hatik- vah.” They also spent time learning oth- er children songs in Hebrew like “David Camp Gan Israel Melech,” “Boker Tov” (Good Morn- Camp Gan Israel is the camp where Girls 9-12, July 10-28, 3-week ing), “Yom Huledet Sameach” (Happy kids are actively involved in fun! Give program Birthday) and “Halellu Halelluya.” your child an experience of a lifetime Boys 9-13, July 10-21, 2-week Please stay tuned for next month and send them to Camp Gan Israel. The program when I will announce some exciting counselors and staff are eager to greet To register your child or for more changes that will be taking place to our your child with many new and exciting information, please visit www.chabad Religious School structure and staff. activities. ofcharlottecounty.com or call Sheina at Girls and boys ages 2-8, July 10- 941.258.0188. Sophia Fox and Dylan Moon Until then have a great summer and in chavruta (peer teaching) stay cool! 28, 3-week program Hebrew “Chai” School launches at Temple Beth El Religious School First Jewish online high school opens n exciting and challenging can choose from the following activi- ing to set up a dessert reception; col- ple Beth El. Most will be worth two new two-part program for 10th ties: writing and presenting a D’var To- lecting and delivering goods (e.g. food, credits, the goal being to achieve 18 Athrough 12th graders will begin rah; writing an article for the monthly clothes, toiletries) to a local charity; credits per calendar year. Individual this September at Temple Beth El. He- newsletter; researching their family sending a care package to an overseas progress will be monitored by Rabbi brew “Chai” School is for the Jewish history and creating a family tree; at- member of the military; attending a Luna or Morah Dale Cohen every six teenager who wants to explore what it tending a BBYO or BEFTY Youth shiva minyan; making and delivering weeks. There is a fee for participation. means to be Jewish in their personal Group event or retreat; serving on the a meal to a family experiencing a life- For more information, contact Rabbi life and how they can stay connected to BBYO board; writing and sharing a cycle event (e.g. new baby, mourning). Luna or Dale Cohen at Temple Beth El the Jewish community. paper about their personal philosophy All activities will be through Tem- at 239.433.0018. The first component will explore, of prayer and G-d; participating in the in a classroom setting, Jewish val- annual Religious School class group ues and traditions as they relate to the travel opportunity; attending a learn- student’s individual Jewish identity. ing opportunity at Temple Beth El (e.g. Students will meet with Rabbi Nicole Schmoozers, Sisterhood or Men’s Club Luna one Wednesday evening each event, Torah study or another class month for nine months at Temple Beth taught by Rabbi Luna). El. Topics will be: Anti-Semitism in “Avodah” category activities in- your life and what to do about it; Men- clude: chanting a Torah portion at a tal Health; LGBT – transgender rights; service (e.g. High Holidays, Shabbat, G-d – What do you believe?; Why Israel Bar/Bat Mitzvah Anniversary); helping matters; The true story of Purim – What to prepare for school-wide Religious you have not yet been taught in Reli- School holiday programs; helping to gious School?; Comparative Religions; build a sukkah at the temple or home; and Jewish Identity – Why be Jewish? blowing a shofar at a High Holiday ser- SHARE the experience of Since Jewish tradition teaches that vice; lighting Shabbat candles at home reading with your children the world stands on three things – To- every week for a month; making Shab- as they grow with rah, Worship and Loving Deeds – the bat dinner for their family; helping to PJ Library books. second component will help the stu- set up Simchat Torah dinner; attending dent to develop their Jewish identity by a Tashlich service; attending a Shabbat Funded in Lee & Charlotte Counties by the Roth taking action involving “Torah” (Torah service honoring graduating seniors; Family Foundation and the study, Jewish traditions and history), participating in an English reading at Asher Family Foundation . “Avodah” (prayer and work), and the community Seder; preparing and “G’milut Chasadim” (acts of loving delivering a speech on anti-Semitism. kindness and service to others). The The “G’milut Chasadim” category SIGN UP TODAY! Enrollment is open to families raising Jewish children Monthly Activity Program will chal- includes: volunteering in the Religious between the ages of six months to eight years lenge students to engage in at least one School; visiting elderly Jewish com- living in Lee & Charlotte counties.
activity of their choice from the three munity members in nursing homes; categories. Because we recognize stu- celebrating Shabbat with an elderly Families can sign up for PJ Library at dents are incredibly busy, the second Jewish community member; delivering www.pjlibrary.org aspect of the program is based on indi- Federation holiday baskets to nursing For more information, contact Leni Sack at vidual interests and schedules. home residents; attending a Tizmoret [email protected] or 239.481.4449 x3 In the “Torah” category, students (a cappella singers) concert and help- L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 20 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ORGANIZATIONS
now deceased, did not Commander Bob Ruberto were pre- Commendation Medal (3 times); Army JEWISH WAR VETERANS have a headstone. Com- senters at the Lee County JROTC Achievement Medal (3 times); Navy Victor Paul Tuchman Post 400 mander Charter worked awards ceremony. There were 14 ca- & Marine Corps Achievement Medal; (239) 246-3151 diligently to have this dets (one from each Lee County High Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal (3 veteran’s grave marked. School) presented with Americanism times); National Defense Service Med- Eryka Aptaker His hard work paid off. There is now medals and certificates. Commander al; Operation Iraq Freedom Medal with While the snowbirds have started to a beautiful stone marking his grave. Charter was there to lead and show gold star; Global War on Terrorism Ex- leave us, the Jewish War Veterans Post Way to go Commander Charter! Joe support. There is much still to come peditionary Medal; Global War on Ter- 400 has not slowed down. May is a Jankow’s unveiling will be held at the in the month of May. May 26 will be rorism Service Medal; Combat Action busy month for us and there was a busy Coral Ridge Cemetery on the same a Memorial Day Service at Temple Ribbon; Navy and Marine Corps Presi- agenda at our April 30 meeting. Two of day that we participate at the Memo- Shalom; May 28 is the annual Temple dential Unit Citation; Over Seas Rib- our members had been absent for quite rial Day Ceremony at Temple Beth El Beth El Memorial Day Service; JWV bon (2 times); and Sea Service Ribbon. some time due to personal reasons. We (May 28). Post 400 Rifle Squad will participate in After Jeremy’s service in the U.S. mili- welcomed back Marshall Lieberman Member Herb Lutsky and Jr. Vice the Fort Myers Memorial Day service. tary, he started working at the Ameri- and Bernie Lurye. Marshall had been Next month’s article will show all of can Red Cross as the Armed Forces away for health reasons and Bernie for our happenings as they transpired. Coordinator and rapidly transitioned other personal reasons. It was great to Our guest speaker last month, Jer- from Coordinator to Regional Direc- see them both. emy Gentile, is quite an accomplished tor and SVSF Program Director under Commander Harvey Charter pre- veteran. He served in the U.S. Marine the new South Florida Region. Jeremy sented a certificate to Bernie Lurye, Corps for 13 years. Jeremy deployed started in May 2016 as Mission United who had been our Post adjutant for a three times to Iraq, and one time to Af- Program Manager at the United Way of few years, then decided to step down. ghanistan. While in the military, Jere- Lee, Hendry, Glades and Okeechobee One of our members, Joe Jankow, Joe Jankow’s headstone my earned the following awards: Army counties. He is very dedicated to help- ing other veterans and has succeeded in doing so. He has helped hardship vet- erans pay their electric bills, put food on their family’s table and a temporary roof over their heads. It was a touching and wonderful presentation which Jer- emy provided. Thank you so much for your service and dedication! Election of officers took place at our April 30 meeting. All officers to re- main the same. Congratulations to all! We are actively seeking new mem- bers. Be a part of a group that makes At the JROTC annual presentation, Post 400 awarded Americanism medals and certificates to fourteen cadets. Pictured are Commander Harvey Charter (center) Bernie Lurye receives certificate from Commander Harvey Charter a difference in the veterans’ world and with award presenters Herb Lutsky and Bob Ruberto. for his service as past Post adjutant the Jewish community.
cating students about the bagel and more get-together. It’s just who is entertaining and accomplished. HADASSAH Holocaust is as important a way to say thank you and schmooze She will present a “Fall in Love with Collier/Lee Chapter as ever. Urge your leg- together. A Keeper is one who donates Hadassah” program that is sure to be (239) 370-6220 islators to support the $1,000 or more with an annual com- inspiring and educational. Please plan Simon Wiesenthal Holo- mitment. Of course, everyone who on joining us. Gayle Dorio caust Education Assistance Act, which is interested in becoming a Keeper is I can’t finish this article without Hadassah members receive an interest- would help the Department of Educa- welcome! Give me a call and we can saying two more things. First, I am so ing magazine and emails from Nation- tion expand and encourage Holocaust talk. You can be here too. excited to be going on the Israel Seeing al and Region that keep us informed. education.” We are fortunate at Hadassah to is Believing Hadassah Mission in Oc- There are many important issues and Hadassah.org has a link where you have lifetime members. We appreci- tober 2017! One of the leaders of the projects! You know about the amaz- enter your zip code and your legisla- ate each one, as well as those members mission is our Region President, Susan ing support for Israel, about the medi- tors’ names appear. You can then click who go on to make an annual commit- Lafer. Carol and Burton Hirsch are also cal advancements and groundbreaking on a letter to send expressing your ment to ensure the existence of Ha- going. (You may remember that Bur- research. You must know about many concern(s). So many issues, so little dassah. They are the lifeblood of this ton won the free El Al airline ticket at advocacy issues. time! amazing charity. Israel Fest 2017, recently held at Fleis- A member recently emailed: “I read Speaking of time – it is flying by! There are some members who qui- chmann Park.) Check out the website in a Hadassah email that Florida leg- Most snowbirds have left and the sum- etly have donated huge sums to Hadas- for more information about visiting Is- islators are on key committees debat- mer months are upon us. At Hadassah, sah and don’t wish to be singled out. rael and the Missions. I can’t wait! ing foreign aid, i.e. to Israel. Members board members are having planning Many have become legacy donors – Second, I am truly honored to have were asked to contact their representa- meetings and preparing new and ex- which means they have designated Ha- been selected as one of National Hadas- tives and urge support for funding. Do citing activities. Our major fundrais- dassah in their wills. Our Region has sah’s Women Who Do! As an honoree you have info on which Florida legisla- ing event for 2018 will be a brunch hardworking experts who are happy to for May member Appreciation Month, tors they are referring to?” celebrating Israel’s 70th birthday! Save meet with those who are considering I will be highlighted on Hadassah.org The next email I received was Sunday, February 25, 2018 – that’s the this. in the OUR MEMBER section and on from Hadassah National: “Yesterday date! Tuesday, October 31 is our Wel- Hadassah’s Facebook page during the was Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Memo- On Tuesday, July 18, I am invit- come Back Opening Luncheon. Our second week of May starting May 8. rial Day. In the wake of rising anti- ing all current Keepers of the Gate and guest speaker is Roz Rosen, a five- I am humbled and very appreciative. Semitism, at home and abroad, edu- Major Donors to my home for a casual generation life member of Hadassah, Thank you!
GENERATIONS OF THE SHOAH which personally I love. and human rights along with preserva- ley Besikoff presented the story of her (Do you have your Ham- tion of the history and memories of the family going back to Poland to see HUMANISTIC JEWISH HAVURAH SOUTHWEST FLORIDA ilton tickets yet?) And Holocaust. where her parents grew up. I told a story of Southwest Florida (239) 963-9347 the debates about Holo- Individuals offering suggestions of an Austrian artist, Manfred Bockel- caust comparisons can for future GenShoah programs often man, who has created portraits of chil- (239) 495-8484 Ida Margolis certainly be draining. All of this, un- ask for stories about the Holocaust dren murdered during the Holocaust, I can understand why some people say fortunately, may overshadow why we that they have not heard, and through including a portrait of my late mother’s Humanistic Judaism and tradition they are “Holocausted out,” or have need to remember the Holocaust. speakers and films, that is what we try little brother, Sy Zuchter. During this Paula Creed “Holocaust fatigue.” There has been Many people may be unaware that to do. Steve Brazina, GenShoah Pro- year’s Yom HaShoah commemoration,For many Jews, Judaism is identified a barrage of Holocaust-themed books there was much resistance during the gram Chair, previews a great number students told the stories of five of ourwith the literature of the Bible, the Tal- and films, and news stories discuss- early post-World War II years to discuss of films, and I, as GenShoah Chair, vet local survivors. GenShoah SWFL is inmud and the Siddur. ing the Holocaust, and what should or the Holocaust. In fact, many survivors many speakers before programs are de- the process of selecting the stories for Despite its fame and antiquity, this should not be compared to the Holo- were discouraged from talking about termined. next season’s programs. The outstand-official literature of traditional Juda- caust, and should anyone be compared their experiences. Holocaust education The 2016-17 GenShoah season ing exhibits at the Holocaust Museumism is inappropriate as an ideological to Hitler. It is certainly easier to read programs, Holocaust museums, and an ended with two personal stories. Shir- tell stories as well. Unfortunately, therebasis of humanistic Judaism. Humanis- lighthearted books or go to musicals, awareness of the Holocaust have been is no shortage of true Holocaust stories.tic Judaism does not seek to legitimize hard-won accomplishments. I don’t Individuals and Holocaust scholars areits norms and recommend behavior by mean to imply that we need to dwell on bringing to light so many astonishingfinding proof texts in the Torah and See page 23 for the memory of the Holocaust and not stories, each one with an importantthe Talmud. In trying to determine the find joy and reasons to celebrate, but I message. place of traditional literature in a hu- believe that those who state that there Most GenShoah SWFL programs manistic approach to Jewish identity, information on is an imperative to remember the Ho- are open to the public. Programs andwe need to affirm certain realities. locaust and tell the stories of the Holo- events for the 2017-18 season will Jewish identity does not depend on the HAZAK 55+ caust are indeed correct. The mission be announced in a future edition of using the tradition. Jewishness is an of the Holocaust Museum & Education this newspaper, and in the GenSho-ethnic identity, not an ideological one. Center of Southwest Florida is “teach- ah e- newsletter that is free and canNo adherence to any ideas or docu- Chapter at ing the lessons of the Holocaust to in- be obtained by making a request atments makes a Jew a Jew. A Jew who spire action against bigotry, hatred and [email protected]. does not believe in the value and truth Temple Judea. violence.” In its mission, GenShoah of of the Torah is equally as Jewish as one Shelley Lieb and Jeff Margolis who does. SWFL promotes Holocaust education discuss GenShoah programs The endorsement of the past is L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 ORGANIZATIONS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 21
ly possessions to charity lah cover that your children or grand- comes more beautiful and illuminates SHALOM LIFE CENTER and live in a monastery children made or was handed down with G-d’s divine spirit. Fort Myers in the Himalayas or make from your parents, you can raise these Sounds simple, doesn’t it? Some- (239) 218-3433 Aliyah and move to Isra- rituals higher and make them more times the simplest solution is the best el in an effort to achieve transformative by connecting past and one. Try one little mitzvah, maybe Slow down and be happy higher consciousness and eternal bliss, future generations. The simple physi- even two or three. They’re guaran- Lawrence & Robin Dermer or we can strive for balance. cal act of drinking wine, eating bread, teed to change your life. Ani v’atah Summertime is a time for us to relax This season is a great time to prac- walking in nature and being with our neshaneh et ha’olam. Together we can and enjoy life at a slower pace. During tice balance in our lives and strengthen families can bring joy and positivity change the world. “season” we tend to be extremely busy, our Judaism. We can use the less cha- into our lives. Join us for Shabbat services ev- and in the hustle and bustle of our con- otic time to deepen our relationship A mitzvah is a commandment we ery Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday temporary life, we’re sometimes drawn with G-d without radically altering our perform with joy. Happiness can be re- mornings for Torah study at 10:00 a.m. into activities that separate us from the entire lifestyle. By taking time to pause vealed with a simple choice to change Our clubs run throughout summer and deeper dimension of ourselves. With and live life with a higher purpose we our attitude and expectation of the out- we are preparing to ensure the SWFL our smartphones, computers, tablets can infuse the energy of mitzvahs into come. In the words of Nike: Just Do Jewish community 5778 High Holi- and all our social media, we often get our lives. It! The physical act of performing the day experience at Shalom Life Center caught up on the surface of our lives Each mitzvah is a connection be- mitzvah will alter your spiritual state exceeds your expectations. Our choir and allow the noise and chatter to dis- tween our world and a higher world. and change your mood. People tell us will be back along with our incred- tract us from focusing on the roots of Through a mitzvah, we can take some how sometimes they feel too tired to at- ible symphonic ensemble and world- our true nature. part of our mundane world and elevate tend a service but they push themselves renowned concert accompanist. Let If we remain unaware that the into a holy experience. The simple act and always leave feeling renewed, re- your spirit soar at Shalom Life Center noise may be blocking our spiritual of lighting the candles on Shabbat can freshed and uplifted. where prayer is inspirational, mean- connection, we risk forgetting who we be elevated so the experience brings us Set a goal this summer to be happy ingful and musical. Visit our website are and being swallowed by a culture the symbolic meanings of light, infus- and receive everything you deserve out at www.shalomlifecenter.org for more of soulless materialism. So what is the ing our lives and our homes with holi- of life. Joy is one of the precious gifts information on our many clubs, pro- alternative? ness. By making a blessing on Shabbat that Judaism brings into our lives. By grams and special events. We could give away all our world- with a beautiful Kiddush cup or a chal- making our life happier, the world be-
likely surpassed only by and his moral pattern highly worthy of and educate about contributions by JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY Abraham Myers’ biogra- imitation. He is in the strict sense of the Jews to the Southwest Florida region. OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA pher. The event, the de phrase “Integer Vita Schlerisque Purus” Upcoming events: (239) 566-1771 facto introduction of the (sic). “Unimpaired by life and clean of Thursday, June 8 at 7:00 p.m.: Jewish Historical Society wickedness” is the direct translation of Downtown Fort Myers Fire Sta- Marina Berkovich to Lee and Charlotte counties, was a this quote by Horace, which a century tion, Southwest Florida Historical At the Israel Fest celebration in Naples huge success, with the Society gaining ago was in use by, I dare presume, most Society, an evening with JHSSWF at the beginning of April, I conducted new friends and members. Southern gentlemen. Wednesday, June 21 at 4:00 a non-statistical survey of attendees, Next came the invitation from A.C. Myers and his father, Hon. p.m.: Jewish Federation Collier asking them two basic questions: 1) Naples BBYO. They wanted to know Abram Myers, who served as inten- County, Film and Discussion of Do you know that Fleischmann Park, more. Fortunately, we were now in dant of Georgetown, accepted his West Southwest Florida Jewish History. who is entertaining and accomplished.where we are today, is named after a possession of that biography, written Point assignment on March 29, 1828. Wine and cheese will be served. nd She will present a “Fall in Love withJew? 2) Did you know Fort Myers is in 1976, which includes a letter of rec- A.C. Myers graduated 32 in a class of RSVP required at 239.566.1771 or Hadassah” program that is sure to be named after a Jew? ommendation to the Academy at West 46 with 20 demerits. In his senior year office@ jhsswf.org. inspiring and educational. Please plan Why was I not surprised that only Point, which itself was then only in its he took courses in engineering, tactics, Please remember to renew your th on joining us. about 5% of the people knew these im- 26 year. Written by John A. Alston chemistry, mineralogy, geology, ge- membership. We need your support I can’t finish this article withoutportant facts?! of Georgetown, South Carolina, on ography, history, ethics and law. His to create and deliver similar program- saying two more things. First, I am so My next stop was at the Lion of February 28, 1828: “Mr. Abraham C. mates in the Academy included John ming to the community. excited to be going on the Israel SeeingJudah dinner with The Labodas of Myers…from one of the best families M. Harvie and William M. Fowler, To learn more, visit the Virtual is Believing Hadassah Mission in Oc-Fort Myers film presentation. Jerry La- of our state…(his) abilities and under- who are important to Southwest Flor- Museum of Southwest Jewish History tober 2017! One of the leaders of the boda’s expertise on Colonel Myers is standing…are eminently conspicuous ida history for their roles in Florida at www.jewishhistorysouthwestflorida. mission is our Region President, Susan wars, Robert E. Lee and briefly, Edgar org. Lafer. Carol and Burton Hirsch are also Allan Poe. Our Mission going. (You may remember that Bur- The Jewish youth of Collier Coun- Collecting, protecting and preserving ton won the free El Al airline ticket at ty invited us to present a short film Jewish history to celebrate the contri- Israel Fest 2017, recently held at Fleis- from the Southwest Florida Jewish bution by Jews in Southwest Florida chmann Park.) Check out the website Pioneers series, “Richard Segalman, every day of every year is part of our for more information about visiting Is- the Man and His Art.” mission. rael and the Missions. I can’t wait! They laughed and exclaimed in Become a member of JHSSWF, a Second, I am truly honored to have dismay at the many facts Richard’s sponsor, business associate, volunteer been selected as one of National Hadas- story is laden with. Then questions just and/or donor. Contact us at: sah’s Women Who Do! As an honoree poured about the Jews he mentioned, The Jewish Historical Society for May member Appreciation Month, like Joe Hirshhorn and Julius Fleisch- of Southwest Florida I will be highlighted on Hadassah.org mann, and about A.C. Myers, the man 899 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 116, in the OUR MEMBER section and on who accidentally became the unwit- Naples FL 34108 Hadassah’s Facebook page during the tingly honorable founder of the Jewish 239-566-1771 second week of May starting May 8. community of Southwest Florida. [email protected] ~ www.jhsswf.org I am humbled and very appreciative. An invitation to come again was The Jewish Historical Society of Thank you! Alexander Goldstein, Sheila Laboda, Marina Berkovich, Gerald Laboda at the our reward. Youth is present in the So- Southwest Florida is a section 501(c) Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties’ Lion of Judah event on April 4 ciety’s mission – to preserve, protect (3) charitable organization.
unnecessary. We do not community. written over a period of five hundred HUMANISTIC JEWISH HAVURAH have to agree with our Traditional ideas vary from period years by different authors. Jewish life of Southwest Florida ancestors to have ideas to period. The official literature of our was molded not only by what people (239) 495-8484 that are valid and Jew- tradition includes documents from four thought happened but also by what re- ishly significant. periods in Jewish history: the tribal, ally happened. Living before an official Humanistic Judaism and tradition The people of the past are entitled the royal, the priestly and the rabbinic. Torah was an important part of the an- Paula Creed to their integrity. The literature of the In each period the prevailing ideas of cient Jewish experience and in no way For many Jews, Judaism is identified past is more interesting if we allow the the ruling elite were distinctly different diminished Jewish identity. It provided with the literature of the Bible, the Tal- authors of the past to say what they from those that came before and after. for a richness of options that could mud and the Siddur. think than if we force them to say what Kings did not agree with priests; and never be fully suppressed. Despite its fame and antiquity, this we think. An ethical approach to tex- priests did not agree with rabbis. There The tradition is morally uneven. official literature of traditional Juda- tual criticism allows people to mean has been continuous change of beliefs Humanistic Jews neither love nor hate ism is inappropriate as an ideological what they say, even if their ideas are throughout Jewish history. A static “the tradition.” They love some, like basis of humanistic Judaism. Humanis- embarrassing. The language of tradi- view of the tradition is a distortion. some, deplore some of it, and view the tic Judaism does not seek to legitimize tion is not obscure. It is refreshingly There are many motivations for rest with historic interest. its norms and recommend behavior by plain and direct. We have a moral obli- ethical behavior. The major motiva- We must neither revere tradition finding proof texts in the Torah and gation to respect that directness. tion for good behavior in the Bible and nor ignore it. We must understand it the Talmud. In trying to determine the God is not removable from tradi- the Talmud is the authority of God and and use it carefully. place of traditional literature in a hu- tional literature. The authors of the the rewards and punishments He ad- From an article by Rabbi Sherwin Wine manistic approach to Jewish identity, Bible, the Talmud and the Siddur had ministers. But that does not mean that published in Humanistic Judaism Au- we need to affirm certain realities. a deep belief in a supernatural father- divine favor was the only motivation. tumn, 1987, Vol. XV, No. IV, pp. 8-10. Jewish identity does not depend on figure who governs the world with Many of the moral ideals in traditional using the tradition. Jewishness is an justice. To the authors of tradition, the literature, which we find ethically ac- Have an item you’d like ethnic identity, not an ideological one. worship of God was supremely impor- ceptable because they conform to our No adherence to any ideas or docu- tant. Modern Jews who are uncom- conscience and our reason, were also to share? Need to reach ments makes a Jew a Jew. A Jew who fortable with this intense conviction reasonable when they were first enun- the editor of L’CHAYIM? does not believe in the value and truth should face up to it when they deal ciated. of the Torah is equally as Jewish as one with traditional texts. The distinction What really happened is as much Send an email to who does. between ritual and ethics did not exist. tradition as what the authorities of the The endorsement of the past is Ceremony guaranteed the life of the past thought happened. The Torah was [email protected]. L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 22 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties TEMPLE NEWS
A musical Shabbat is tember 7 at noon at the offices of Myers, For more information about Tem- TEMPLE JUDEA planned for Friday eve- Brettholtz & Company. It is an hour of ple Judea or upcoming programs, call Fort Myers ning, June 2, followed by open discussion of Torah and Judaism or email the synagogue office. (239) 433-0201 a chicken dinner. If you where all levels of background and all Regularly scheduled events: are interested in attend- questions are encouraged. • Friday evening Shabbat services at www.tjswfl.org ing the dinner, please call Congregants continue to volunteer 6:30 p.m. the synagogue office to each month at Sally’s Café, a Salvation • Saturday morning Shabbat services Temple Judea follows the Israeli holi- make a reservation. The monthly musi- Army-sponsored program to feed the at 9:30 a.m. Temple Beth El was proud to host our day calendar. Shavuot/Yizkor services cal Shabbats are fun and lively, and the homeless and those in need. Volunteers • Lunchtime Torah study with RabbiJewish Federation’s annual Holocaust will be on Wednesday, May 31 at 9:30 community is invited to attend. are needed for Sundays, June 11 and Sack the first Thursday of Memorialeach Service featuring “Music a.m. Throughout the summer, Shabbat There are no Torah study sessions 25. Servers have to be there by 4:45 month – no Torah study during theand the Holocaust.” We were especial- wine and cheese receptions will con- scheduled for the summer. Rejoin Rab- p.m., and are typically finished by 7:00 summer. ly proud to have had the opening music tinue on Friday evenings at 6:15 p.m. bi Sack when he resumes his monthly p.m. To volunteer, call the synagogue • Morning minyan every Monday atfrom Schindler’s List performed by our before services begin. Torah study session on Thursday, Sep- office. 9:00 a.m. very own violinist, Rafi Ruiz, accom- panied on piano by Randy Kashi. The program also featured lovely music by who supported the name Jewish current events in the fall. and Events Committee begins to workthe Interfaith Choir and a speech on the TEMPLE SHALOM change. 92nd Street Y Series on the calendar for the 2017-18 season.history of music and the Holocaust by Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands Everyone was moved This past year, the 92nd Street Y changed This is a two- or three-month project.Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director of the Cen- (941) 625-2116 by the letter that was read its system of programming. The sys- Certainly, if you have any suggestionster for Judaic, Holocaust, and Geno- by Rabbi Agin, who re- tem eliminated many synagogues that about a program for next season, pleasecide Studies at FGCU. www.templeshalomfl.com ceived it from Harvey were tied into the system. I am hopeful contact Odette Port. Loeb the son of Harry that the 92nd Street Y leadership team Religious School Education Many thanks to all those who attended and Emmy. Many thanks to Kays, will listen to our voice and let us bring Thanks to Gayle Druker, our Religious the temple’s Congregational/Com- Ponger and Uselton Funeral Homes for their wonderful programs to our com- School is up and running. Our classes munity Seder on Tuesday, April 11. its continuous support. munity. Please know that our temple are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays. For those who were not at the event, The Charlotte Sun should be ac- paid a minimum of $1,000 per year to If you have children who have not at- there were 123 people in attendance. knowledged for its outstanding cover- be part of the program. tended Religious School, please let us The room can seat, at capacity, 125 age of the Holocaust Service and news Seeking your support talk and see if we can be of help. individuals. Many thanks to the team story. Most of the programs that we have Temple Shalom membership leaders, Odette Port, Anita Weisglass Adult Education: at Temple Shalom are funded by the climbing and Marlene Friedman. Next year, our Meaning of Prayer Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund. Commu- This year, through April 30, the temple Passover Seder will take place on Sat- This year, as part of our adult education nity programs like the concert by the has gained 12 members. New members urday Evening, March 31. Mark it on program, Dr. Linda Wein presented six Bay Area Canters Association or Rabbi help the temple to be a strong voice in your calendar and plan to attend. outstanding sessions on the Meaning James Rudin’s Friday Evening Talk the greater community. It is our inten- The Harry & Emmy Loeb Ho- of Prayer. Each session was different and other events are funded by this tion to find out what it is that brings locaust Community Day of Remem- as it related to Prayer. Dr. Wein based fund. Therefore, whenever possible, a person to our synagogue. Please re- brance Service was well attended at her presentations upon the Melton Pro- kindly support the Rabbi’s Discretion- member that when a new person re- Temple Shalom. As many of you are gram. Many thanks to Dr. Wein for her ary Fund, which makes programs and locates to your community, tell them aware, the naming of the Holocaust time in preparing for this class. events happen at Temple Shalom. about Temple Shalom. Service was changed to include Harry “Lunch and Learn” Shavuot services Shabbat services and Emmy Loeb for their life’s work The last session of “Lunch and Learn Shavuot services will be on Wednes- Shabbat Services are always under re- in teaching about the Holocaust. Deep with the Forward” was on April 25. It day, May 31 at 11:00 a.m. with a dairy view. It is important that Shabbat ser- appreciation to the clergy leadership is our hope to continue this program of lunch to follow. Please remember that vices be uplifting and inviting. So we Yizkor will be recited as part of the ser- will do whatever we can to make Shab- Send updates and changes to the Jewish Directory vice. bat services different, appealing and Program and Events Committee uplifting. below to [email protected]. During the month of May, the Program
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 Temple educator: Dale Cohen, Ma.Ed., R.J.E E mail: [email protected] Preschool director: Jesyca Virnig Web site: www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com President: Ellis Rabinowitz IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES Services: Saturday at 10 a.m. followed by Phone: 433 0018 • Fax: 433 3235 a kiddush Rabbi Myra Soifer Web site: www.templebethel.com Torah study: Wednesday at 8 p.m. Shabbat services: 7:30 p.m. Friday; Torah study 9:00 a.m. Saturday; B’nai Mitzah 10:30 a.m. Saturday CHABAD LUBAVITCH Religious School: 9:30 a.m. noon Sunday COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA Hebrew School: 5:00 6:30 p.m Wednesday REFORM ORTHODOX Judaica Gift Gallery 10868 Metro Parkway, South Fort Myers 5620 Winkler Road Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism (The Southwest Florida Masonic Center) Fort Myers, FL 33919 P.O. Box 07144, Fort Myers, FL 33919 Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz TEMPLE BETH SHALOM Rabbi Bruce Diamond Phone: 433 7708 • Fax: 481 9109 REFORM ([email protected]) E mail: [email protected] 702 S.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33990 Coordinator: Natalie Fulton Web site: www.chabadswf.org Rabbi Devora Buchen Cantorial Soloist: Richard McConville Services: Friday 5:15 p.m.; Saturday Kabbalah President: Arnie Schwartz Adult Educator: Jessica Evers class 9 a.m.; Shacharit 10 a.m.; Kiddush at noon Phone: 772 4555 • Fax: 772 4625 Phone: (239) 274 7485 Minyan: Monday & Thursday 7:00 a.m. E mail: [email protected] E mail: [email protected] Web site: www.templebethshalomcc.org Web site: www.fortmyerssynagogue.com CHABAD JEWISH CENTER Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday Community Sabbath eve dinner each Friday OF CAPE CORAL Religious School: Thursday 4:00 6:30 p.m. at 6:30 p.m. ORTHODOX Torah study with Rabbi Buchen: Shabbat 10:30 a.m. Sabbath eve worship every Friday at 7:30 p.m. 1716 Cape Coral Pkwy. W., Cape Coral, FL 33914 Organizations: Brotherhood, Sisterhood, Light breakfast and Torah study with the rabbi Rabbi Yossi Labkowski Family Service (1st Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m.) every Saturday morning from 9:30 11:30 a.m. Phone: 963 4770 E mail: [email protected] BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS TEMPLE JUDEA Web site: www.chabadcape.com REFORM CONSERVATIVE Services: Friday Evening 7:30 p.m. Meets at Sanibel Congregational Church 14486 A&W Bulb Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 Saturday morning 9:30 a.m. followed by 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island Rabbi Marc Sack Kiddush luncheon Rabbi Myra Soifer E mail: [email protected] Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. President: Alan Lessack President: Jennifer Manekin Monday Friday morning 7:00 a.m. Director of Congregational Learning: Phone: (239) 579 0296 (Oct May) JLI Courses: Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. Elizabeth Singer Email: [email protected] Weekly Torah Study: Tuesday evening 7:30 p.m. Cantorial Soloist: Douglas Renfroe Preschool Director: Joann Goldman [email protected] Hebrew School: Sunday 10:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m. Web site: www.batyam.org Jgirls: Tuesday 6:00 7:00 p.m. Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday (Nov Apr) Phone: 433 0201 • Fax: 433 3371 E mail: [email protected] 7:00 p.m. Friday (May Oct) COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Adult Education: Web site: www.tjswfl.org Services: 6:15 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m. Shalom Life Center Saturday, 9:00 11:30 a.m. (Nov Apr) Lawrence Dermer, Spiritual Leader 218 3433 Jewish Current Events: Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Saturday Minyan: 9:00 a.m. Monday Religious School: Sun. 9:30 a.m. noon; • AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee): to 12:15 p.m. (Nov Apr) Jacki Waksman (954) 653 9053 Write: P.O. Box 84, Sanibel, FL 33957 Wed. 4:30 6 p.m. • AJC (American Jewish Committee): Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism Early childhood education: Brian Lipton (941) 365 4955 (formerly UAHC) Preschool, M F, ages 18 months 5 years; • Anti Defamation League: (561) 988 2900 “Mommy & Me,” 12 months 2 years • B’Nai B’rith International: (941) 302 4500 TEMPLE SHALOM CHARLOTTE Affiliated: United Synagogue of Conservative • Chevra Kadisha: HARBOR AND THE GULF ISLANDS Judaism Gene Sipe 841 4615 • Generations of the Shoah SWFL: 963 9347 REFORM • Hadassah Collier/Lee Chapter: 23190 Utica Ave., P.O. Box 494675 CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS/ESTERO ORTHODOX Lynn Weiner 598 1009 Port Charlotte, FL 33949 4675 • Hadassah Sharon Chapter (Charlotte County): Rabbi Solomon Agin 24850 Old 41 Road, Suite 20 (in the Bernwood Centre) Odette Port (941) 505 1409 President: Carol Roark • Hazak 55+ Chapter: Phone: (941) 625 2116 Bonita Springs, FL 34135 7024 Rabbi Mendy Greenberg Joyce Rosinger 437 1566 E mail: [email protected] • Humanistic Jewish Havurah: Web site: templeshalomfl.com Phone: 949 6900 Paula Creed 495 8484 Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday Web site: www.JewishBonita.com • Israel Bonds: Regional Headquarters: (800) 622 8017 Religious school: Sunday 10 a.m. Services: Saturday at 10 a.m., followed by • Jewish Community Services: 481 4449 Beginning Hebrew: Tuesday 4:15 5:15 p.m. a kiddush • Jewish National Fund: (727) 536 5263 Advanced Hebrew: Thursday 4:15 5:15 p.m. Memorial Tree Planting in Israel 1 800 542 8733 Organizations: Sisterhood • Jewish War Veterans: Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism Post 400: Commander Harvey Charter 246 3151 • Mikvah Bashka of Southwest Florida: Nechamie Minkowicz 822 2784 • ORT Gulf Beaches Chapter Marina Berkovich 566 1771 L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 TEMPLE NEWS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 23
For more information about Tem- The temple offers live and welcoming rabbi who leads ser- (6 months to 3 years old) congregants ple Judea or upcoming programs, call TEMPLE BETH EL streaming of our weekly vices each Friday night beginning at and their parents. or email the synagogue office. Fort Myers services and events and 7:30 p.m. Music is an important part of Rabbi Luna’s Torah study group Regularly scheduled events: (239) 433-0018 we were pleased to learn our service and we are grateful for the is held each Saturday at 9:00 a.m. The • Friday evening Shabbat services at we had over 100 people commitment and talents of our two pia- study group is always interesting as 6:30 p.m. www.templebethel.com tuned in to the Holocaust nists, accordionist and flautist as well Rabbi Luna encourages comments and • Saturday morning Shabbat services Memorial Service. as our choir and choir director. participation from those attending. at 9:30 a.m. Temple Beth El was proud to host our Temple Beth El is the oldest and Our beautiful building is owned Every Wednesday at 1:30 p.m., • Lunchtime Torah study with RabbiJewish Federation’s annual Holocaust largest Reform synagogue in Lee by our congregation, and our sanctu- Rabbi Luna leads an in-depth Life & Sack the first Thursday of Memorialeach Service featuring “Music County and a member of the Union for ary has permanent seating for approxi- Liturgy class open to all. Our monthly month – no Torah study during theand the Holocaust.” We were especial- Reform Judaism. Our Rabbi, Nicole mately 250 people with a capacity to “Lunch & Learn” is held at noon on the summer. ly proud to have had the opening music Luna, was ordained from the Hebrew double that plus. We “live stream” third Thursday of each month at Starz • Morning minyan every Monday atfrom Schindler’s List performed by our Union College-Jewish Institute of Re- Friday night services and then archive Restaurant. A topic of current interest 9:00 a.m. very own violinist, Rafi Ruiz, accom- ligion, the Reform movement’s rab- them. This feature allows us to serve is selected and everyone joins in the panied on piano by Randy Kashi. The binical school, and is a member of the those unable to attend services. The discussion. program also featured lovely music by Central Conference of American Rab- audiovisual team can also record B’nai Temple Beth El is proud to be the Interfaith Choir and a speech on the bis (CCAR), the professional organiza- Mitzvah ceremonies for the celebrating home to The Learning Tree, the only history of music and the Holocaust by tion for Reform rabbis, whose mem- families. 5-star-rated preschool in the area. The Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director of the Cen- bers adhere to educational and ethical On the first Friday of the month, at school is non-denominational and led ter for Judaic, Holocaust, and Geno- guidelines. 6:00 p.m., our temple sponsors a “Tot by Director Jesyca Virnig and her well- cide Studies at FGCU. We are proud of our vibrant, warm Shabbat” program for our youngest trained staff.
gift from the congrega- Federation of Lee and Charlotte Coun- and Collier counties. Barry and Cheryl BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS tion that was created by ties. Barry and Cheryl Fulmer were Fulmer represented Bat Yam, a wel- Sanibel Sanibel glass artist Luc privileged to read some of the names. coming congregation. The event’s pur- (239) 579-0296 Century. Irene Skolnick, April 28 was the final session for pose is to unite peoples of all faiths and Renee Minsky and Enid Saturday morning Adult Education to share religious traditions meant to www.batyam.org Packard arranged a de- classes until November. As has be- promote acceptance and belonging for licious buffet luncheon come customary, planning for the next LGBTQI persons and their families in On April 22, eighty Bat Yam congre- that included chocolate desserts espe- season is accompanied by a brunch our communities. gants, friends and clergy gathered to cially for Rabbi Soifer. with all food items contributed by the The Tzedakah Committee of Bat celebrate the tenure of Rabbi Myra The Search Committee tasked with participants. Strategy sessions always Yam completed its task and distributed Soifer and bid her goodbye and good identifying a new rabbi to serve the Bat seem to have better outcomes with grants to seven qualifying organiza- luck with her future endeavors. Vice Yam community has been interviewing good food and coffee on hand. Long- tions. Five of the groups are located in President Barry Fulmer was the MC for and evaluating interested candidates. time coordinator and creative spark Lee County and provide services for the occasion. Cantorial Soloist Doug The Yom HaShoah/Holocaust Re- Esther Pokedoff convinced several preschool and afterschool programs, Renfroe sang a special song, “Arri- membrance Memorial Service held at members to each take responsibility seniors and veterans. Two of the orga- vederci Myra,” to Rabbi Soifer with Temple Beth El on April 23 included for programming for a month. Peggy nizations are in Israel and serve chil- personalized lyrics crafted by Doug several Bat Yam participants. Survivors Siegel will focus November 2017 on dren and seniors. The funds for the and Dorothy Renfroe. Marty and Enid Irene Skolnick and Renee Sugar were Jews in the classical fine arts; Renee grants come from Tzedakah contribu- Packard presented a beautiful glass honored and asked to light one of the Sugar proposed Jewish resistance in tions from members and friends of Bat candles representing the the ghettos and camps during WWII Yam. The committee chair is Salessa millions who perished. for December 2017; January 2018 will Berk. Those on the committee are Peg- Kathy Zoss, Edina Les- be Jewish entertainers with Edina Les- gy Siegel, Jeannette Keyser, Shirley sack and Barry Fulmer sack in the lead; Irene Skolnick agreed Boscov, Judith Mayer, Arlyn Stein and sang with the Interfaith to February 2018 and the topic of Jews Renee Sugar. We thank them for their Choir conducted by Suel- in America. Further details will be pro- diligent service. len Kipp, Choir Director vided in future issues. Friday Shabbat services are at 7:00 of Temple Beth El. Kathy On May 7, the tenth annual Inter- p.m., instead of 7:30 p.m., from May Zoss also played the viola faith Convocation organized by Naples through October. Please join Bat Yam during one of the choir PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends at 2050 Periwinkle Way in Fellowship selections. Area fam- of Lesbians and Gays) took place at Hall of the Sanibel Congregational ily members submitted Temple Shalom in Naples. The event United Church of Christ, our meeting names of victims of the included clergy from more than twenty place. Rabbi Myra Soifer Holocaust to the Jewish Welcoming Houses of Worship in Lee
April. The Rabbi pre- Rabbi during the congregation’s May Every Saturday at 9:30 a.m., C.F.S. COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE sided at Adele’s April 13 31 Shavu’ot worship. They will assist offers a light breakfast followed bya Fort Myers funeral at Lee Memorial the Rabbi in serving the synagogue’s lively discussion of the week’s Torah (239) 274-7485 Park. religious and educational needs, and portion until 11:30 a.m. Mazel Tov to Joel officiate at Jewish lifecycle events in The purpose of The Community www.fortmyerssynagogue.com and Eve Aron who dedi- the community delegated to them by Free Synagogue, led by Rabbi Bruce cated their new Shell the Rabbi. Diamond, is “Study, Worship and Be- Sunday, June 4 marks the beginning Point home on May 7 with a mezuzah The next Community Free “Brown nevolent Acts” practiced tradition- of the Community Free Synagogue’s celebration! Bag Movie Night” starts at 6:30 p.m. ally but with progressive values. The 5th Biennial Israel Pilgrimage led by Mazel Tov to Linda Shuster and on Thursday, June 22 and features the synagogue does not sell memberships Rabbi Bruce Diamond, who will ac- Nancy Schwartz, called to the Torah on 1968 Barbra Streisand classic Funny or solicit funds. All of its events and company 20 travelers on their 10 days May 27 as Bnot Mitzvah. Girl. Pack your dinner; admission and programs, including youth and adult of learning, prayer and discovery. A soft drinks are free. Jewish education, are open to all and high point of each Pilgrimage is the Each Friday at 6:30 p.m., The always free. The synagogue meets at opportunity afforded to the couples in Community Free Synagogue serves the Southwest Florida Masonic Center, the group to renew their marriage vows a traditional Sabbath dinner. It is free 10868 Metro Parkway in South Fort under a huppah in Jerusalem. and reservations are never required. Myers. For more information, visit its Edna Josephson honored the con- At 7:30 p.m., the Sabbath is welcomed website at www.fortmyerssynagogue. gregation by celebrating her 100th with prayer and song. A coffee hour com. birthday on April 21 during the weekly follows worship. Sabbath Eve dinner that night. Mazel Tov to her entire family and very many friends! Edna Josephson Rod Steiger and Robby Heartfelt condolences to the fam- Congratulations to new rabbis Terri HAZAK 55+ CHAPTER Benson. This film was ily and many friends of Adele Richards Goldberg and Tom Miess, who will be at Temple Judea based on the novel by who passed away in the 2nd week of granted their “reshut hora’ah” from the (239) 433-0201 Chaim Potok. Date and time to be announced at Stay in touch throughout the month. Join us at Temple Judea on Sunday, a later date. June 25 at 3:30 p.m. to see the com- Temple Judea’s HAZAK 55+ Sign up for the Federation’s e-blasts. edy film The Frisco Kid, starring Gene Chapter is for singles and couples. It is Wilder and Harrison Ford. Everyone an organization formed by the United Get the latest information on enjoys a good laugh and this movie Synagogue of Conservative Judaism to upcoming community events will certainly provide that. enable members to meet and socialize Our programs are open to the com- with each other. Temple Judea’s active and cultural activities, breaking munity. The cost for snacks, soft drinks HAZAK Chapter is a chartered mem- news items, updates from and the movie is $3 for HAZAK mem- ber of the USCJ. Dues are a modest $5 bers and $5 for nonmembers. After the per year per person. Membership in the Israel and lots more. film the group plans to have dinner at organization and all of our programs is Sweet Tomatoes in Fort Myers. For open to the community. Join HAZAK Send an email to more information and to RSVP, call and meet new friends. For additional in- Shirley Schiffman at 239.395.0135. formation, please call George or Joyce [email protected] The movie for July will be The Rosinger at 239.437.1566, or Bunny or Chosen, starring Maximilian Schell, Matt Lawrence at 239.245.7708. L'CHAYIM JUNE 2017 24 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties
Grow your business with L’CHAYIM!
JEWISH FILM FESTI AL
ECEM E 201 L'CHAYIM 1 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties Each month, 5,000 The Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlottest CountiesAnnual Jewish residents Targeted Distribution Presents the 21 Jewish Film Festival in Lee and Charlotte Reach our affluent, informed, health-conscious, and of Southwest Florida savvy readers who are looking for new and better ways All lms will be screened at the Regal Cinemas Bell Tower. Open seating at all lms for general admission tickets. counties turn to i ets ill e mailed u to e em er 31 to enrich their lives and those of their loved ones. i ets ordered a ter e em er 31 ill e a aila le onsors i a ter 6:00 m inside t e t eater on t e day o t e s o 201 21 L'CHAYIMo ortunities ECEM E are L’CHAYIM for: Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties Thursday, January 12 at 7:15 p.m. a aila le t at in lude L’CHAYIM – the monthly newspaper published by the SABENA HIJACKING: ISRAEL & THE JEWISHMY WORLD VERSION reser ed seatin ee This docu-drama is ased on previously undiscovered audio recordin s of former pilot Captain Re inald Levy. Captain Levy, now deceased, was t e orm on a e 18 in command of Sa ena Fli ht 571 from Brussels, Bel ium, to Tel Aviv on Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties – is Israel rushes aidMay ,to 1 72, whenthe it was hijackedworld’s y four mem ers of Blackworst Septem er, earth uakesThank You to these u Upcoming major events Israel is often one of the fi rstthe countries armed wing of Fatahon orthe PLO. ground The fi lm fi nally to sharesoffer the untold story of what exactly took place on the fl ight specialiststhroughout theto 30train hours local of nerve-NGOs to run humanitarian aid after the world’swrackin mostcaptivity. Itdevastating fuses candid interviews earthquakes. with dramatic reenactments. Sponsors of the They also fortifi ed 332 public build- an emotional support hotline, and has By Nicky Blackburn, ISRAEL21c, www.israel21c.org,It takes viewers September into the aircraft 1 , to 201 witnessset theup eventsa beekeeping fi rsthand cooperative as the staff ed in s, and conducted safety and survival hen rishna Devi hadka, hijackers threaten to e plode hand renades y women unless 300who prisoners lost their were homes andJewish Film Festival: workshops for 605 Nepalese citizens. Exhibit “Drawing Against Oblivion” has local connection was pulled out of the ru le released. The result is a fast-paced fi lm sources full of suspense, of income which in the poses earth uake. mailed to 5,000 residents in the area. Additional copies of a hotel fi ve days after a Israelihistorical civilian and NGOpolitical IsraAID uestions also that helped to shape the Israel of today. A baby is born at the IDF fi eld hospital in Nepal The or anization also trained si Principal(Photo courtesy ofSponsor the IDF) W arrivedLanguage two days: En lishafter 1the hr. /He rew/Ara ic/French uake,3 min. with u devastatin 7. ma nitude earth uake in Running Time: theater troupes to present plays in apan, which killed some 16,000 Community Directory an emer ency relief team of doctors Nepal on April 25 2015, the fi rst people earthquake-aff ected districts, to relay and search-and-rescue specialists. The people and left 230,000 homeless. she saw were Israeli. information a out community resilience team uickly esta lished a temporary As in Haiti, Israeli aid or anizations hadka, a maid at the hotel, had and trauma, a model that is now ein field clinic in the Sindhupalchowk remain in apan today lon after een trapped in an air pocket covered adopted y UNICEF. are available at the Jewish Federation office. Tuesday, Januarydistrict of Nepal, one17 of theat worst-hit 7:15 p.m. all other forei n aid or anizations y a corpse. She was rescued after a dra- Nepal was not the fi rst time that areas. IN SEARCH OF have left. Aid workers are helpin matic 10-hour operation led y IsraAID, The or anization rou ht sup- to uild a mental health support net- u an Israeli humanitarian aid or anization. ISRAELI CUISINE work in the country, and recordin plies and medical services, and opened Synagogue news The 24-year-old was taken imme- This fi lm is a portrait of the Israeli people told through food. It is drawn psycholo ist-staffed safe spaces for the testimonies of survivors. diately to the only workin hospital in from the more than 100 cultures that make up Israel today. Throu h children left wanderin the streets after April 2015: A dou le earth uake Kathmandu, a large fi eld hospital run by interviews with chefs, farmers, home cooks, vintners and cheese makers, the uake.to visits to farms, markets, restaurants and kitchens, audiences will in umamoto City, apan, which the Israel Defense Forces (IDF . Community development nonprofi t killed 4 and injured 3,000. hadka was one of thousands of discover that this hot, multi-cultural cuisine has developed only in the Tevel ’Tzedeklast 30 years. (The In thatEarth short in ustice ,time, Israel went from ein one of the poorest Fe 2016: A 6.4 ma nitude earth- people across Nepal who survived the which hascountries een carryin in the world out humanitar-to one of the most advanced.The IDF Its fi eld sophistication hospital in Nepal uake in Taiwan, which killed 117 u fi rst quake and the second magnitude mirrors the current state of the Israeli people and their food: secular, people, 115 of them in one residen- Local Organization news ian work in Nepal since 2007 and al- 7.3 uake that followed two weeks later, Israel has rushed to provide aid in the ready hadoutward a team looking on the and round, innovative. rushed The chef/guide of the fi lm is Michael tial uildin in aohsiun City. thanks to Israeli aid. The two uakes wake of a deadly earth uake. Israeli to help,Solomonov, providin connections,the ames Beard trainin award-winnin chef/owner of ahav and a April 2016: The 7. ma nitude were a catastrophic dou le low for Ne- num er of other restaurants in Philadelphia.1 humanitarianhr. 34 min. workers have helped out and understandin of the re ion to other earth uake in Ecuador, which killed Life-Enriching Information Language: En lish Running Time: after earth uakes in India, Turkey, Peru, 661 and injured nearly 2 ,000 NGOs arrivin on the scene. Ma en David Adom (MDA sent and the devastatin earth uake and people. tsunami that hit SoutheastOUR Asia in 2004. COMMUNITY out a trained disaster dele ation includ- To view more stories on Israel’s Here are the main earth uakes where u Jewish Federation updates in 10 paramedics and two physicians, e ceptional humanitarian aid efforts Israel has given aid since 2010: ECEM E 201 a road in the My Name is Israel aid L'CHAYIM Thursday, andJanuary later distri uted uildin 19 at supplies 7:15 p.m. an 2010: Israel ained worldwide Dr. Brian and Sara rivisky Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotteand Counties foodFANNY’S to 00 Nepali families. JOURNEYpraise for the speed and effi ciency e hi ition, or to download the e hi it Each month, readers of L’CHAYIM get news and updates The Dream Doctors sent medical Fanny’s ourney is an incredi le tale of ravery,with stren th which andit off survival ered aid – a to Haiti for display, visit http://www.israel21c. ily mem ers they lost, and others artha were John olf clownsstory to rin of a darin relief youn and irlcheer who towill stop at innothin the wake and fear of noa catastrophic one. In 7.0 or /e hi ition/my-name-is-israel/. IsraAID working in the Gongabu district of survivors.1 43, 13-year-old Fanny and her youn er sisters were sent from their created y theEditor families and of HolocaustIsrael Director, sur- Nicky Kathmandu (Photo: IsraAID/Mickey Noam Alon) mission from thema nitude Museum, earth uake Mr. Diaz that killed thOtherhome Israeli in France NGOs to an Italian– A A, foster home for ewish children. When the vivors and Blackburncamp li erators has worked we worked extensively as a Comingpal that left ,000 up people at dead, 22,000the Holocaust Anniversary Edition, considered Museum optionsaround for its 160,000 creation. peopleCon- and left u George – United75 Nazis Hatzalah, arrive Natanin Italy, International their caretakers desperately or anize the departure with in ourjournalist education and pro rams editor both who in Britain and Community Calendar By Amy Snyder,injured andExecutive hundreds Director, of thousands Holocaust of Museum & Education Centertemplatin of SWFL the tra edy2 0,000 of uildin s the Holocaust destroyed. Five The Little Ships:Humanitarian ofThe the Heroic children AidAcross andRescue to Switzerland. Israelithe Flyin Suddenly leftand on alltheir of own, the enocidesthese eleven have passedIsrael away. for The a communityrange of national also andTravel inter- t is hardhomes, to elieve offi ceswe andhave temples come destroyed years later, Israel was still in Haiti on all Jewish-related local events including the Jewish at Dunkirk Aidin World – childrenwere War also IIwill, involved do the impossi le in rescue, to reach thewhich Swiss had order occurred in order in to participatednational by creating publications tribute fl owersincluding to the orend dama ed. of another year, and The Great-survive. helpin re uild the community. Helene Jorge Glocer Blue Pacifi recoveryc, and relief operations in Nepal history and continue for relativesWeekly lost in, theIsrael Holocaust, Hi h Tech as . InvestorShe was 2017 is fastIsrael approachin ! was one ofWe the look fi rst countries Language: French Fe 2011: A 6.3 ma nitude earth- I est Skatingalon Race with and FIRST, a1 consortiumhr. 34 min. of to occur in the modern well inas garden and on landscape The lein Times fl owers of London created The forward toto welcomin send humanitarianwith you a num er in aid2017 toof Nepal, and Running Time: uake in New ealand, which killed His Name IsraeliWas Raoul overnment and army rescue world, he decided to by students theand High-Tech the public Correspondentto fi ll in the for the ran e andvery readth special ofpro- that aid from 1 5. Wallenberg. The set can create a work of art that ardenBarbara ack round erusalem Barry scene. Post . services. March 2011: The .0 ma nitude pstein u so many sectors rams and of events.Israeli life e – thepre-ordered Over with a ayear later, Tevel ’Tzedek would convey seren- The offi cial unveiling of the Memo- Holocaust Museum news overnment,Please the militaryvisit our and various earth uake and tsunami in Tohoku, inda Charles delson Film Festival, Jewish author programs, holiday celebra- si ned ookplate,and IsraAID at no are still at work in Nepal, ity and eauty, always rial Garden will take place in late anu- NGOs – waswe site so si nificantat www. that the elda Dubin e tra char e,off eringand will training and support to help keepin in mind our ary 2017 e orial as part of the commemoration Nepalese todayHolocaustMu re ard Israel as a esource ready for pickup at hopes, to live in al- of International Holocaust Remem- villa ers et ack on their feet. Philanthropic of inspiration.seumSWFL.or Tuesday, the event. January Tevel ’Tzedek 24 runs aat youth 7:15 ser- p.m.ance, peace and loveJEWS rance Day. & Accordingand lookto fi guresfor our compiled by KEEP QUIET und Luncheonvice ticketspro ram modeled after Israel’s in the world society, The Museum is located at 4760 CNN, Israel anuary sent more column personnel to the As Vice President of Jobbik, Hungary’s far-right extremist party, pm are 150 perShnat person, Sherut, and year of national service, movin away from our Tamiami Trail North, Suite 7, in Naples. disaster sceneto provide than any addi- other country. Csanad Sze edi re ularly espoused anti-SemiticBROADWAY rhetoric and arsha ike u tions, concerts, food festivals, book study groups, timely A y sponsorshipsin areearth uake-devastated avail- Holocaust denials. villa es He wasto a foundermistaken of the Hun arianprimitive ways Guard, It is open year-round istler Tuesday throu h Candle Lighting Times The IDFtional arrived details. in Nepal two days Thursday, February 9 at 7:30 Snyder a le. Dresshelp is usiness re uild communities.a now- anned Tevelmilitia alsoinspired y theof Arrowthinkin Cross, and a oin pro-Nazi Opera Sunday; closedNaples Monday and major ew- after the fi rst quake, with a team of casual. Netruns proceeds a variety partyof recovery complicit pro rams in the murder of forwardthousands with of the ews lessons durin 2408 Linwoodish nnaand U.S. Avenue, holidays ale Naples evin Annual Luncheon260 physicians and search-and-rescue enefit thein education a riculture, WWII.education, Then disaster-risk came a revelation which transformed his Keeplife. We e tend our est wishes for The Museum’se perts. Annual Within Luncheon 12 hours will they had set learned. Cheryl ichael pro rams reduction,of the Ho- resilience,Sze edi’s crisis maternal interven- randparents were Rabbirevealed Kanter to e ewishpresents and We Happy Jews OnHolidays Broadway, to youa sing-along and your history e held on Thursday,up a fi eld Decem er hospital in 15 Kathmandu, from the Entitled The Garden,of the American2016, the musical in- from theGoldstein Gay ’90s operetta of Romberg & locaust Museumtion and & incomeEducation eneration Center for some family. 11:30 a.m. IDF’sto 1:00 lar est p.m. ever, at The which Ritz- included two dividually-framed Friml…painted through ack rounds Berlin, Kern, the Gershwins and Rodgers & Hart… to of SWFL. 25,000For more villa ers information in si of on Nepal’s most lectures, mah jongg and much more. They also get up- Carlton Beach Resort, 280 Vanderbilthis eloved randmother an Auschwitz survivor who had hiddenfeature her faith an idealizedfearin furtherSondheim, meadow persecution. scene. Mel Brooks The andPhoto Kander ynda Credit for& EbbCurious ichael – the George Broadway image above: of today. operatin tents, four intensive-carereservations and sponsorships, please u uiet depicts Sze edi’s three-yearimpoverished journey re ions. as he is uided y Ra i Boruch O erlander to em race his The requested images from the cover are used Business Directory Beach Road,tents, Naples. 60 hospitalHost Sponsors eds, andfor specialists memorial “tribute fl owers”$50.00 createdGeneral dur- seating • $75.00 ubenstein Benefactor Preferred seating newfound reli ion,contact forced Development to confrontIsraAID the Specialist runspainful a variety truths Tim of of his humani- family’s past, his own wron doin ,Event concludes and the with in an the elegant book by permissionwine and ofdessert the de Grummond reception the event arein Estelleneonatal and and Stuart adult Price. care. in the1 Novem erhr. 30 min. workshops will e Children’s Literature Collection, The University of tur ulent historyMorrison of his country. at Tim HolocaustMuseum But is this astonishin Running transformation Time: a process of enuine reparation and Our uest speakerThe team is author rou ht Louise 5The tons of hu- tarian projects in Nepal and plansincorporated to e into theTickets desi n. are Under available Mr. at Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS. or mail spiritual awakenin SWFL.or or is he orsimply call 23 .263. 200.a desperate man with nowhere else to turn? naplesjewishcongregation.org Borden, who will discuss her ook, . there for at least three more years.Diaz’s The direction, someyour were check created made y out to Naples Jewish Congregation, along with manitarian and medicalLanguage supplies: En lish,Memorial from He rew Garden with En lish Art Installationsu titles Journey that Saved Curious George or anization distri utes warm clothin Holocaust survivorsyour in honor name, of addressthe fam-Naples and phone FL 34108, number, Attn to:Tickets NJC, PO Box 111994, Israel, and durin their stay they treatednearing completion dates from the area’s synagogues and numerous local The ook descri es the story ehind to Nepali children, has rou ht in Israeli 1,600 patients, performed more thanThe 5 Museum’s Memorial Garden the story of the creation of the much- u sur eries and delivered ei ht a ies.Art Installation in Rabbinical Reflections loved Curious Geor e character. Be our front windows prepared to learn a lot of curious facts BROADWAY & is nearin comple- a out everyone’s favorite monkey. Did IF YOU AREtion. AsNOT mentioned in MAKING you know that his ori inal name wasn’t pm our Octo er column, SOCIAL CHANGE Jewish organizations. It’s the place they turn to for com- Geor e? Or that he wasn’t the main 5% ON YOURartist uan Diaz cre-MONEY Friday, February 10 at 7:30 character starrin in the ooks created ated the four eautiful y H.A. and Mar ret Rey? Or that he Unitarian Universalist Congregation u ...Then you want topanels give in, us and a ascall. part The product has a 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples • Free admission! Israel updates almost never ot to e famous at all? Ms. of, the LIGHT Per- Borden will fi llfixed you in onrate all theof details.5% per annum or higher, paid monthly! Rabbi Kanter will be our guest at Shabbat services, and will trace She is also the authorNo waiting of several around formance until Art the Style end of the term the dominant role played by Jewish composers in Tin Pan Alley. to receiveSeries foryour which interest! he is From Irving Berlin and George Gershwin to Jerome Kern and Billy munity news, the community calendar, candle lighting children’s ooks dealin with World Rose, these songs are musical companions to American history. well known. War II and the Holocaust. Five of her Your Principal and Interest are SECURED When he received The Garden, 2016Created - Acrylic in and on Treatedpart of the Muslin LIGHT Fabric, Performance 6’2” x 16’3” Art Diptych Style Series. (Each Artist: Panel: Juan 6’2” Diaz©x 8’1” and 6’2” x 8’2”) ooks will e availa le for purchase at the Memorial com- the event as a set for 60. Titles included No long term commitments – RABBI KENNETH KANTER u The Journey that Saved Curious short duration of about a year Rabbi Kenneth Kanter is a nationally known author Photos of recent events are Jewish Federationand entertainer offocusing Lee on& theCharlotte Jewish influence Counties This is NOT an ANNUITY e e e and on American popular music. Viewers have called ,” times, and a business directory. STOCKS, OPTIONSF or a REIT l , This is NOT d his unique sing-along concert/ lecture events high-energy,” “inspiring,” “exhilirating,” Gold, Silverthe Ior any other “ This is NOT F “an absolutely superb night of entertainment and “the kind of event we will long remember.” on and joy” ti Commodity Events ewish Federa e is Fe e ati n CC Iends o Anti Israel media bias J sponsored u and much more There are NO TRANSCTION FEES OR -Israel sentiments on college campuses: Facing anti in part by COMMISSIONS for you toand pay EVER! how to fi x it! Further the mission of our A AMERA Letter WritingA PROGRAM FORWorkshop1:00 p.m.11TH at ANDTemple 12TH Beth GRADERS El CONGREGATION (16225 Ion to the Fr Winkler Rd, FortJEWISH aMyers , first-hand is accountco-spon- of 100% OF YOURto realize that, MONEY in my years GOEShink the media are iased? NAPLES Hear overcame Federation and communityin ewish philanthropy, If you answered yes, you’re sored y thehow ewish one Federation student of Lee Shabbat services are held every Friday night at the A DAY TO SALUTE OURneither SOLDIERS a Democratic nor a not alone. Americans’ trust in and Charlotteanti Counties Semitism and at Florida Temple TO WORK FOR YOU IMMEDIATELY! Atlantic University FR M T E Repu lican administration T Unitarian UniversalistBeth El. Congregation, 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples the media has sunk to an all-time low, An Introduct For more information, please contactTh 2016 The workshop will e led y Sarit has materially aff ected 13 in a accordin to a Gallup surveyMore released information at 239-431-3858 or www.naplesjewishcongregation.org E ECUTIVE Catz, the Learninternational about what'sdirector happening of Bruce Greenstein,positive manner those LUTC who this past Septem er. DIRECT R ECEMBER WARM • REFORMCAMERA’s onletter-writin college• AFFORDABLE campuses team, a todaynet- • ADULT Tim Shawneed Financial help the most.Consultants There , FL 34119Confi dence in the mass media “to with regard to the Boycott, ALOMAPLES work of 17,000 volunteers who respond Alan Isaacs 7:00PM - CONCERT Sh N report the news fully, accurately and Divestment & Sanctions (BDS) is never enou hTUESDAY, pu lic DassistanceOAD to o to distorted news covera e of Israel. TEMPLE R OSENfairly plun ed to its lowest level in movement, Students for around. And that’s where the ewishICk R Catz will speak a out reco nizin y the time you read this(239) we will 425-9707 ~ [email protected] RIDGE Ent Chairs: R INE Ev Gallup pollin history. Only 32 of Justice in Palestine and other have voted to elect the ne t Federation comes in and where AND you, as media ias and then-Israel conduct movements. a hands- 4630 P those polled said they had a reat deal anti president of the United States individuals, can have aE LLAINEdecisive impact on letter-writin workshop that will or fair amount of trust in the news. B on the outcome no matter who presides provide attendees with the tools needed and, hopefully, he or she will have News a out Israel can e particu- over our country. to respond thoughtfully and eff ectively received a clear mandate to lead our I call on you to reconcile with the VIPlarly SEAT distorted and unfair. In Septem- $90 PATRON Withto faulty special reportin . guest country. We, as ews, have endured, TO A er, PRIv ATEthe same month in which the Gal- The exclusive way to reach the Jewish election outcome as soon as ARE possi le INvITED E I don’t elieve there’s a journalis- throu h our lon A SPECIALhistory as PERFORMANCE wander- SPONSORS PERFORMANc and e in a ain*PATRON to further thebEFORE mission ThE lup poll came out, the Committee for ers, the hazards ofOF life POPULAR under dictators, AND TRADITIONAL ckTAIL REcEPTION tic conspiracy to deni rate Israel, said of our FederationcO and our community Accuracy SEAT in Middle East Reportin Rayna in Rose Exelbierds monarchs and otherISRAELI manifestations SONGS PERFORMED of ADMISSION Catz. ButdWith covera eU does fre uently To stren then$18 and G enrichENERAL the ewish America (CAMERA prompted cor- Stan overnance into which we have had 12 AND UNDER suff er from a number of serious prob- BY ISRAELI SOLDIERScommunity y providin FREE andAGES support- rections from 20 major news outlets Coordinator little, if any, input. We have often een lems High that School CAMERA’s staff and letter in philanthropic, educational and so- that had pu lished false informationSoutheast the victims of these rulers and their writers seek to fi x and prevent.” onlcialIne: service https://www.fidf.org/ pro rams locally,naples-I in IsraeldF-e nsemble16ChAPTERa out the ewish state. ournalists, she said, are sometimes whims, in some cases to mortalse tI effckets ect. MIAMI CAMERA, the oldest and lar est to PurchA and throu hout the world and to pur- The ewish destiny resided often in the ETS CALL FIDF GREATER FIDF.ORG just uneducated a out Middle East his- FOR TICsuek our vision of A AIME ewish.SAGONA communi-@ Middle East media monitorin or ani- hands of a capricious individual and a Sunday,tory. January Reports can lack 15,crucial histori-2017 305.354.8233 | j zation in the world, will e presentin a ty that is ased on ewish values such cal conte t, she said. Our -researchers 6:30 PM hostile society. workshop to teach local residents how 4:00continued P.M. on page 3 I think that it is important in these as Tzedakah ( enevolence , Tikkun Olam (repairin the world and ’lal to com at media ias. The workshop, Jewish Federation
weeks following the election to refl ect - Fort Myers to e held on Monday, Decem er 5 at Community in Lee and Charlotte counties. Yisrael (takin responsi ility for one on our standin today as ews in our another . 9701 Commerce Center Court society, in our country and in our com- munity, and to appreciate what we, JEWISH FEDERATIONPizza & beverages will be served as ews, have accomplished and will ed. imit s l i continue to accomplish irrespective of ce a Sp e. lcom we who overns this country. COMMUNITYGuests are BREAKFAST While I know intimately of ews in our community who stru le to put Sunday,R.S.V.P December to Leni Sack: 239.481.4449 11 ext. 3 food on the ta le, we are a community or [email protected]. that is suffi ciently strong and caring 10:00 a.m to help. While some of us suff er the an uish of isolation andPhone loneliness, (305) 354-8233 | Fax (305) 354-8296 | e-mail [email protected] our community reachesFriends out of theand Israel sup- defense Forces is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization. contributions are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law. For more information ports. While some ewish communities Guest Speaker : Dr. David Dalin around the world still fi ght anti-Sem-
itism, repression and poverty, we are Topic : The Presidents of the alert and provide relief. United States and the Jews: We cannotRead predict thewith anycurrent as- and previous editions of L’CHAYIM online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org. surance how we as individuals and as From Abraham Lincoln to Barack Obama a community will be aff ected by the outcome of the election. It is reason- a ly safe to assume however, that the needs of our community will not re- or to place an ad in L’CHAYIM: David G. Dalin, an ordained rabbi and duce in uantity or ur ency. It is sad -author or historian, is the author, co editor of eleven books on American Jewish history and politics, and Jewish He has taught at Christian relations. Ave Maria University, and at the University of Hartford, has been a visiting professor at the Jewish Theological Call: Jim Lewin at 239.634.6923
CROWNE PLAZA Seminary of America, a Research Fellow at Stanford University and a Visiting Fellow at Princeton University. 13051 Bell Tower Drive Fort Myers Based on his book, Dr. Dalin will talk about the role and he e ish Federation - presiden- o ee and harlotte experiences of Jews in various presidential administra- Couvert: $18/person tions. He will illuminate the history of Jewish Email: [email protected] o nties Presents st nn al tial relations, presidential appointments of Jews to politi- the 2 RSVP to Leni by December 7 cal positions, and the history of presidential views and e ish Film Festival 239.481.4449 x3 or policies on Jewish interests and concerns. o So th est Florida. See pages 6 7 or [email protected] L’CHAYIM complete details. Website: Visit the page at NONPROFIT ORG P STMASTER: U.S. POSTAGE 9701 Commerce Center Court DATED RELI I US PAID Fort Myers, Florida 33908 NEWS ITEMS. FT. MYERS, FL TIME SENSITIVE PERMIT NO. 175 PLEASE E PEDITE www.JewishFederationLCC.org DELIVER TO CURRENT RESIDENT OR