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www.jewishpresspinellas.com VOL. 32, NO. 10 ST. PETERSBURG, A DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 20 PAGES First Jewish Heritage Night with Bucs is Dec. 18 ■ More Happenings, Page 10 southeast corner of the stadium, will also injury and a Bucs’ spokeswoman said she In celebration of Hanukkah, the Tampa feature special , potato was not sure if Marpet would be at the Bay Buccaneers will host its first ever , doughnuts and desserts, limited- tailgate. Jewish Heritage Night on Monday, Dec. 18 edition souvenirs and a cash bar. Jewish Heritage Night is a joint project as the team takes on the Atlanta Falcons at Later, during the game, the menorah of Centers of Tampa Bay and the The Jewish Press Group Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. lighting ceremony will be replayed on the Bucs. U.S. POSTAGE PAID of Tampa Bay, Inc. PRESORTED The event will begin with an exclusive giant Bucs Vision screen in the stadium. The area’s other two professional sports STANDARD tailgate at 7 p.m. as Bryan Glazer, Bucs The only Jewish member of the franchises, the Tampa Bay Lightning co-chairman and a Jewish community Buccaneers is center Ali Marpet, shown in and Tampa Bay Rays, have been holding leader, along with others light a 12-foot advertising for the event with the headline: Jewish Heritage events for several years, tall menorah. “Siege the Night with the Power of Light.” but this will be the first for the Bucs. The tailgate, located at Quad C near the Marpet recently suffered a season-ending HERITAGE NIGHT continued on PAGE 4 Light Love Laughter at Hanukkah

It’s always Hanukkah in this picture-perfect Italian town By RUTH ELLEN GRUBER in Casale. The synagogue, which is part of a The JTA news service larger museum complex, is now a major tour- collection CASALE MONFERRATO, Italy – It’s ist attraction – and not only because of its opu- of Hanukkah always Hanukkah in this picturesque town in lent sanctuary with huge chandeliers, colorfully menorahs in the town northern Italy’s Piedmont region. painted walls and lots of gild- of Casale have lived in Casale ing. The former women’s sec- Monferrato Monferrato for more than 500 tion has been transformed into is housed years, with the community a Judaica and Jewish history in the reaching its peak of 850 mem- museum. And the synagogue’s basement bers at about the time Jews basement, formerly a matzah of its here were granted civil rights bakery, is now home to synagogue, in 1848. The town still boasts the Museum of Lights. which one of Italy’s most ornate Hanukkah here is commemorated used to be synagogues, a rococo gem nonstop with a year-round exhibit featuring a public matzah that dates to the 16th century. dozens of menorahs, or hanukkiyot, created bakery. These days, only two Jewish families live TOWN continued on PAGE 19 Photos courtesy of www.casalebraica.org DO GOOD EVERYWHERE. FROM ANYWHERE. Join our page @ www.facebook.com/jfed.pinellas Meet Eileen Hochstadt, Did you know? Since July 1, 2017 The role of synagogue president likely began in president of the Jewish Community Center of West we have raised North America between 1654 (when the first Jews Pasco, the home of Congregation Beth Tefillah. settled) and 1840 (when the first rabbi was called She’s striving to revitalize the Jewish community $833,126 to serve the new land). Prior to World War II, it was across Pasco County and northern Pinellas through not unusual for a president to serve at least 10 monthly events and weekly adult education. toward our goal. years in the role! The Jewish Federation *Campaign officially began October 28, 2017. www.JewishPinellas.org OF PINELLAS & PASCO COUNTIES, FL

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PUBlICatION & DeaDlINe DateS The Jewish Press of Pinellas County is a privately STAFF owned, community newspaper published in JIM DAWKINS cooperation with the Jewish Federation of Pinellas & Publisher & Co-owner DECEmBER 15 Pasco Counties. The Federation underwrites home KAREN DAWKINS of PINELLAS COUNTY • Established in 1986 delivery to every identified Jewish household in Managing editor & Co-owner Press Release ...... Dec 1 Pinellas County (approx.4,500), to promote Jewish Advertising Sales An independent, bi-weekly newspaper owned by community cohesiveness and identity. GARY POLIN Advertising ...... Dec 5 THE JEWISH PRESS GROUP of TAMPA BAY, INC. TORI GEE THE FEDERATION MAINTAINs GALE TARNOFSKY-ABERCROMBIE Also publisher of the Jewish Press of Tampa THE MAIlINg lIsT FOR THE Staff Writer & editor januaRy 12 BOB FRYER www.jewishpresspinellas.com JEwIsH PREss. Press Release ...... Dec 29 Ad Design & Graphics P.O. BOx 6970, Clearwater, Fl 33758-6970 To RECEIVE THE PAPER REY VILLALBA or for ADDRESS CHANGES, DAVID HERSHMAN Advertising ...... Jan 2 (6416 Central ave., St. Petersburg, Fl 33707) ■ Call (727) 530-3223 Social Columnist telephone: (727) 535-4400 • Fax: (727) 440-6037 JUDY LUDIN ■ Go to [email protected] januaRy 26 e-mail: [email protected] editorial Assistant The Jewish Press is mailed STANDARD CLASS. GAIL WISEBERG Press Release ...... Jan 12 The Jewish Press assumes no responsibility for the opinions of columnists, Standard Class DoeS NoT include a speedy delivery The Jewish Press is a letter writers, claims of advertisers, nor does the paper guarantee the guarantee. Date of delivery varies depending on your subscriber to JTA, Advertising ...... Jan 16 individual post office. kashruth of products & services advertised or mentioned otherwise. The Global Jewish News Source. Standard Class Postage Permit: taMPa PI #3763 DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 3 So. Florida shul Perspective bomb plot lands Emilie Socash Executive Director, Jewish Federation man in hospital, of Pinellas & Pasco Counties then prison (JTA) – A South Florida man Natalie Portman’s who pleaded guilty to plotting to bomb a Miami-area synagogue isn’t scary, and other musings and Jewish school will undergo medical treatment and serve time Years ago, I heard the words “December Dilemma” for the first time, in prison. a phrase which describes the seemingly dramatic pull that Jewish kids James Medina, 41, is expected to Member exert on their parents to make Hanukkah more Christmas-like. At first it serve up to 25 years in prison. The made sense: it’s surely a dilemma if only two binary choices are avail- prosecution and defense reached Happy Chanukah able, those being a) a rigid Jewish traditions-based holiday observance American Society an uncommon deal in which Medi- of Travel Agents in which we light candles and fry foods (and give no gifts) or b) a cel- na will likely spend the first part of from your partners ebration that embraces consumerism and offers our whiny wee ones a his sentence in a medical facility, paltry . The Sun-Sentinel reported. Medina in travel! Last year, Natalie Portman announced to Jimmy Fallon on the To- has been diagnosed with schizoaf- night Show that she planned to have a for the first time. fective disorder and a brain cyst. DUGGAR Here’s Jewish America’s sweetheart/star/Harvard graduate waging her Eugenia K. Duggar, CTC TRAVEL AGENCY, INC. The FBI arrested Medina in Director of Operations 4300 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg own war on Hanukkah, and yet I find her reasoning to be, well, rather April 2016 while he was approach- pedestrian (and tolerable). For Portman, it was a simple equation of Terry W. Cox (727) 327-6196 • FAX: 327-2205 ing the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Assistant Manager meeting the needs of her entire family, including her Christmas-cele- Center with what he believed was brating in-laws, who wished to be together on Dec. 24 and 25 as both a bomb. An FBI informant had fur- holidays coincided (or collided, as you wish to see it) on the calendar. nished Medina with the real look- Plenty of press responded to Portman’s position, both in support and ing but fake bomb. against. According to prosecutors, Me- What I grapple with is a question of a more basic nature: how can dina initially planned to attack the we be an inclusive community and concurrently welcome those whose 800-member Conservative syna- behaviors embrace the “other?” In this column it’s about a Christmas gogue and its school with assault ri- tree, but what about Halloween, or Valentine’s Day? What about self- fles on Yom Kippur and was hoping proclaimed Jew-Bus (Buddhist Jews) or the practice of yoga? to inspire other Muslims to commit When I received the most recent Hadassah Magazine—which hap- terrorist attacks. pens to be the book issue, a personal favorite—I was delighted to see At his sentencing he said he had a four-page profile on the amazing PJ Library book program. I remem- been struggling with the aftermath bered back to a visit I made to Aspen, CO, as part of a PJ Library ex- of a fraught divorce and decided to ecutive retreat put on by the Grinspoon Foundation, during which I had convert to Islam. the chance to sit with the Foundation’s president, Winnie Sandler Grin- spoon. As we sat around a picnic table at the top of Aspen Mountain, the small group talked through directions that the initiative may go, and needs that weren’t being met. “Would you ever include a book that features a family that has a Christmas tree in their home?” I asked sincerely, knowing that many families who receive the book are intermarried and likely contemplate (or have) a tree. In my memory, those around the table held their breath somewhat anxiously, whether that be from the awkwardness of my question or the eagerness for guidance from Ms. Sandler Grinspoon. She only needed a moment to answer, and stated that no, that would not be the type of family that would be featured in one of the selected Hanukkah titles for the program. A fiery conversation ensued among those present about how doing so would “normalize” the activity of having a tree and would somehow make it “okay.” I remember feeling disheartened at the time, not in that I felt pas- sionate that a title with a Christmas tree be offered, but rather that there still exists a sense of “other” or “less-than” despite knowing that about half of our households with kids have one Jewish and one non-Jewish parent. In our community, an average of 44 percent of our households choose to have a Christmas tree (with a peak in Pasco County—68 per- cent of households have a tree). Of those under age 50, 54 percent put up a tree, and 76 percent of households with children do so. An addi- tional high-water mark is that 60 percent of non-elderly couples (those who are under age 65 and have no kids at home) have a tree. What do we do to make sense of this, to welcome families of all types of observance, and to pursue a path that seeks to draw more peo- ple in rather than cut more people out? To offer counterpoint, there is the very real position that the Decem- ber Dilemma creates a watering down of tradition in an effort to make sure our kids don’t feel left out at a time when we can’t escape festive holiday music, everywhere, and beautiful light displays. (I admit, cover anything in a string of lights and I’m in awe.) Hanukkah is not Christmas, and to blend the two assuredly has the additional emotional baggage in the roots of a Christian holiday commemorating the birth of its primary point of worship. I remember how I spent Christmas morning from age (approxi- mately) 4 through 18: my family piled into the car, bundled in our snow pants and mittens and googles, and headed to Mt. Spokane. We met up with other families who didn’t celebrate Christmas and for the first half of the day had the slopes all to ourselves. My father was known as the “expert” skier and taught anyone new to the sport; my mother was al- ways the epitome of the ski bunny. In the 1970s and 1980s, I don’t know if the December Dilemma re- ally existed; I didn’t recognize it as such. But looking back I realize that my parents had a pang of parental distress and wished to cushion the blow of being different. They invented a holiday that celebrated their wedding anniversary in which presents were exchanged and gifted, piled high weeks in advance along the fireplace hearth… except it was in the middle of the summer. Now as a parent myself, I feel the sting of raising kids as both of this world and different, and like every other parent, navigate as best as I can. I realize now that the December Dilemma is as much about parent- ing confidence as it is the kids’ desires, and I strive to hold both ideas in my mind: when is a tree just a tree, and when is a cultural tradition trodden upon?

Liked it? Loathed it? Want to react? I would welcome your feedback and can be reached at [email protected]. PAGE 4 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 Young leaders in training Cardozo, Montefiore Societies to honor learn about philanthropy law and financial at Bucs training facility professionals This year’s Jewish Lead- JLTI is a joint program Two outstanding Jewish profes- ership Training Institute of the Tampa Jewish Fed- sionals in the worlds of legal and (JLTI) class visited One eration and Pinellas/Pasco financial services will be honored Buc Place, learning about Federation. Feb. 8 at the annual Cardozo and philanthropy and giving The program invites Montefiore Societies reception. back with Tampa Bay emerging young leaders The Jewish Federation of Pinel- Buccaneers Co-chairman from throughout the Tampa las and Pasco Counties and the Bryan Glazer and Emilie Bay area to participate in Tampa Jewish Federation, which Socash, executive director an innovative, 11-session, JLTI class members with Bucs Co-chairman Bryan Glazer. (L-R) Nathan Black, Michael Schwartz, Jeff Katzman, Jacklyn Steinberg, Yoni Haim, Jessica Schneider, Aaron Slavin, Luy Teitelroit, Cory sponsor the two Jewish profes- of the Jewish Federation of leadership development Kleinman, Bryan Glazer, Brian Waksman, David Goldschein, Stephanie Kaminoff, Loren Pincus, sional societies, will host the event Pinellas & Pasco Counties. experience. Abby Altman, Lance Misztal and Lauryn Solomon at the Bryan Glazer Family JCC, 522 N. Howard Ave., in Tampa, Go to Buccaneers.com/JHN to beginning at 6:30 p.m. “Boiled & Baked HERITAGE NIGHT purchase tickets and tailgate only The reception and program are • CONTINUED from FRONT PAGE passes. The deadline to order tick- open to the the traditional way That is not to say the Bucs and ets is Friday, Dec. 15. entire com- at the same location the Jewish community have not Rabbi Mendy Dubrowski, who munity. Cost collaborated before. The Jewish directs Chabad Chai in South to attend is for over 30 years!” Leadership Training Institute an- Tampa and helped organize the $25 per per- nually holds a session at One Buc event, remarked “Hanukkah is a son. Mon. – Fri. 6:00 am – Noon Place (see story above). Plus, in the chance to celebrate the power of Some five Sat. & Sun. 6:00 am – 1:00 pm past, the Jewish federations’ Young light to dispel darkness, no matter years ago, Adult Divisions have attended the odds. At a time when the world the two Jew- practice sessions and held tailgate faces numerous obstacles, and the ish federa- 11 varieties of Bagels • 14 varieties of Cream Cheeses Event co-chair and game events. darkness seems stronger then ever, tions began Smoked Salmon • Home-Made Rugelach Bonnie Wise (above) For this first ever Hanukkah the menorah is a reminder that offering this when we kindle the light of our of Tampa and Hal Coffee Fresh Roasted & Brewed on premises daily celebration, the Bucs are offering joint event, Hershkowitz of St. discounted tickets in the Club level souls, nothing can stop us.” first solely Petersburg (below) 1871 Gulf To Bay Blvd. (Clearwater) for $155 or upper corner section for The Bucs may want to take that honoring ~ Next to Clearwater High School ~ $55. The tickets include passes to philosophy to heart in the nation- lawyers the tailgate. The tailgate only is $10 ally televised Monday Night Foot- through the JP (727) 446-7631 for those who already have tickets. ball game with kickoff at 8:30 p.m. Cardozo So- ciety, then in 2017 intro- ducing the Montefiore Society for financial professionals. The 2018 event will honor Barry Kanner of Pinellas County with the Cardozo Society award, and Sam Linsky of Tampa with the Montefiore Society award. This year’s celebration will be co-chaired by last year’s honorees, Hal Hershkowitz, partner in the St. Petersburg CPA firm of Hersh- kowitz and Kunitzer; and Bonnie Wise, chief financial administrator of Hillsborough County. The evening will open with a cocktail hour, including heavy hors d’oeuvres, followed by a presenta- tion of the awards and a discussion of the consideration of “Ethical Behavior through a Jewish Lens: Contending with Economic, So- cial, and Cultural Issues.” The event is sponsored by the Bank of Tampa. Further event details are avail- able at www.jewishtampa.com or (813) 264-9000 and www.jewish- pinellas.org or (727) 530-3223. US aircraft carrier gets a Torah scroll WASHINGTON (JTA) – Jewish sailors aboard the Navy aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford now have a Torah scroll to use during their six- to eight-month stints at sea. The umbrella body for Jew- ish chaplains, the JWB Jewish Chaplains Council, dedicated the scroll on Nov. 29 aboard the ship in Norfolk, VA. It was dedicated to the memory Sgt. Jacob Kamaras, a World War II U.S. Army Air Corps veteran. He was drafted at age 34 and fought in Europe. On hand for the ceremony were his son, Philip Kamaras, a New York lawyer, and his name- sake grandson, Jacob Kamaras, a journalist and publicist in Houston. The Kamaras family helped pay for the $36,000 scroll as part of the chaplains’ council Torah for Our Troops campaign, which equips chaplains with travel-size Torah scrolls. The scroll, slightly smaller than those used in most synagogues, is designed for use in the shipboard chapel. DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 5 Local theater cuts ties with playwright after sex misconduct claims JTA and Jewish Press staff cies already in place, intends to do the idea that I might have crossed Accusations of sexual miscon- an investigation of their own into a line with anyone who consid- duct by high profile men have prior collaborations to ensure that ered me a mentor.” headlined news reports on a near Acclaimed there were no similar incidents in Adam Horovitz backed the playwright daily basis recently, and on Thurs- previous years. women. day, Nov. 30, they hit home, rock- Israel Horovitz, Horovitz, 78, has written more “I believe the allegations against far right, with ing the Tampa theater community than 70 plays in a career spanning my father are true,” he said in a cast members with accusations by nine women more than 50 years. In Tampa, Job- statement, “and I stand behind the of his play, of sexual misconduct, including site Theater has performed several women that made them.” “Lebensraum,” rape, against award-winning play- of his plays and conducted staged The Gloucester Stage, a Mas- which was wright Israel Horovitz. readings of his works and he has sachusetts regional theater where performed at Since 2014, Horovitz has col- come here for short-term residen- Horovitz was artistic director, cut the Jobsite laborated with Jobsite Theater, cies to help with the productions ties with him a week earlier as at Theater in the resident theater company of Tampa in and do talk-back sessions with au- least one of the accusations sur- January 2016. the Straz Performing Arts Center. diences. faced. Hours after the New York Times He divides his time between the In 1993, the Boston Phoenix published a story on Nov. 30 de- and . He is the published an article in which 10 tailing the accusations, the theater father of Beastie Boys band mem- unnamed women accused Horo- group announced it was cutting ber Adam Horovitz. vitz of sexual harassment and as- ties with Horovitz and cancelling Among Horovitz’s best known sault. At the time the Gloucester the scheduled production of his plays are Line, Park Your Car in Stage board’s president, Barry play, Man in Snow. Harvard Yard, The Primary Eng- Weiner, dismissed the allegations The women cited in the New lish Class, The Widow’s Blind Date and described some of the accus- York Times article, accused Horo- and The Indian Wants the Bronx. ers cited as “tightly wound.” vitz of inappropriate advances and His play, Lebensraum, which was On Thursday, Nov. 30, the cur- sexual assault in incidents dating performed in Tampa in January rent Gloucester Stage board presi- back at least four decades. The 2016, deals with a post-Holocasut dent, Liz Neumeier, released a story did not indicate any of the in- question: What if 6 million Jews statement announcing that Horo- cidents happened locally. Many of were invited back to ? vitz had resigned as the organiza- the women were teenagers at the Horovitz’s screenwriting cred- tion’s founding artistic director. time of the alleged events. its include James Dean starring “When we recently learned that Jobsite Producing Artistic Di- James Franco and Author! Au- our founding artistic director, Is- rector David M. Jenkins and the thor!, a mostly biographical movie rael Horovitz, has been accused of pool of 13 artistic associates, core with Al Pacino. sexually assaulting a young actor members of Jobsite Theater, will “The nine women who spoke in NYC – repeating conduct he spend the next few weeks coming with the Times described Horovitz allegedly engaged in here at GSC together to find a suitable alter- as a complicated man who was, at decades ago – we were appalled,” nate for the production of Man in times, a charismatic mentor and Neumeier said in the statement. Snow, which was slated to go up in empathic friend,” the Times wrote. “Israel denied the allegations and Wishing you a March 2018. “He taught at several universities asked to meet with the full Board. “My heart is broken right now,” and nurtured young writers, was After he was unable to attend the Happy Hanukkah! Jenkins said. “I am absolutely gut- generous with his wisdom and meeting, he resigned and is no lon- ted. Israel has become like a father dazzled with tales of his famous ger an ex-officio member of the Studio and to me over the past few years, and friends.” board of directors. one bedroom I have learned more from him than Horovitz responded to the “Our hearts go out to the many apartments I can possibly put into words right newspaper that while he has “a women who are, once again, re- are available now. To say I feel betrayed would different memory of some of living the harassment and assaults throughStudio and rental be a gross understatement, and my these events, I apologize with they endured. We recognize that in programsone bedroom that offer heart goes out to the victims who all my heart to any woman who the past their reports were grossly affordableapartments housing have lived with this for so many has ever felt compromised by my mishandled. The Board is united toare seniors available living on years and the pain they must be actions, and to my family and and committed to ensuring that athrough limited rental income. experiencing all over again.” friends who have put their trust such behavior does not take place programs that offer in me. To hear that I have caused at Gloucester Stage and we will The company, having both ha- v Weekly Kosher Shabbat Dinners v Daily Activitiesaffordable housing rassment and whistleblower poli- pain is profoundly upsetting, as is take any reports seriously.” to seniors living on v v 24 Hour Front Desk Coverage Traditional Jewish holiday a limited income. Congress advances bill allowing disaster funds for houses of worship Celebrations v Reserved Parking v WeeklyPrivate VanKosher Service Shabbat Dinners v Activities,Daily Activities Activities, Activities (JTA) – A congressional com- facility.” gogues, churches, mosques and v Traditional Jewish holiday v 24 Hour Front Desk Coverage mittee has approved a bill that al- The Orthodox Union, an um- other houses of worship damaged 250 58th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33710 lows federal disaster relief funds brella Orthodox body that has ad- in natural disasters,” said O.U. Celebrations v Reserved Parking to go to houses of worship. vocated such a change for years, President Mark Bane in a state- v Privatephilipbenjamintower.org Van Service v Activities, • 727.347.5191 Activities, Activities The Thursday, Nov. 30, unani- said the bill will mean synagogues ment. “This has been a long time Ad sponsored by Benjamin Tower Foundation mous vote in the House Transpor- receive fair treatment. in coming, and we appreciate the 250 58th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33710 tation and Infrastructure Commit- “We welcome this policy support from our legislators as tee sends the measure to the full change, which will end FEMA’s well as the Trump Administra- philipbenjamintower.org • 727.347.5191 U.S. House of Representatives for discriminatory treatment of syna- tion.” Ad sponsored by Benjamin Tower Foundation approval. Previously, relief funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, could not go Bring your car to someone to churches, synagogues and oth- er houses of worship due to con- cerns about separation of church you know and trust. and state. Other institutions, like community centers or zoos, could receive the funds. The money re- imburses the institutions for aid they provide to victims of natural disasters. A bipartisan group of lawmak- ers has long pushed for the change. In September, amid a string of hur- ricanes ravaging the Gulf Coast and Caribbean, President Donald Trump tweeted his support for churches receiving FEMA funds. BOB “Churches in Texas should be entitled to reimbursement from FEMA Relief Funds for helping victims of Hurricane Harvey (just LEE’S like others),” Trump said on Twit- $ TIRE COMPANY ter. According to the text of the bill, a St. Pete Institution “A church, synagogue, mosque, anything10 excluding Offfuel. Exp. 12/27/17 temple, or other house of wor- Since 1947 ship, and a private nonprofit facil- ity operated by a religious organi- 1631 4TH ST. N. | Next to Sunken Gardens | 822-3981 | bobleestire.com zation, shall be eligible for contri- butions … without regard to the religious character of the facility or the primary religious use of the ONE STOP AUTO CARE PAGE 6 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 Congregations Rabbinically Shabbat Speaking Candle Speaking Cong. B’nai Israel Temple Beth-El St. Petersburg St. Petersburg Lighting Champagne celebration: Sisterhood’s Pre-Hanuk- Hanukkah has message Ring in the New Year early and bid kah event: The Sisterhood will Times farewell to Shabbat with a cham- hold a pre-Hanukkah party on Sunday, for young and old alike pagne toast on Saturday, Dec. 30 at Dec. 10 at 11 a.m. Dec. 8 • 5:18 pm 5:30 p.m. during the congregation’s Brotherhood schmooze: By RABBI JACOB LUSKI annual New Year’s Eve Seudah Dec. 15 • 5:20 pm Congregation B’nai Israel, St. Petersburg Families are invited to hang out Shlishit, the traditional third meal and relax while children attend re- Hanukkah has a special hold on American Jews. And I believe that it of Shabbat. Dec. 22 • 5:23 pm is not just because of its proximity to the non-Jewish holiday season. I ligious school classes on Sundays RSVP required for this free event from 9 a.m. to noon in the social Dec. 29 • 5:27 pm think there is something for everyone in the holiday and its traditions. to Pam Askin at (727) 381-4901 or Very young children are fascinated by fire. The story of the miracle of hall. Enjoy a bagel and a cup of [email protected] coffee and read the newspaper. the flame which burned for eight days carries an immediate impact on Havdala in the City: Bring a them. But I think there is something in that story which can appeal to Daystar lunchmaking: schedule and pricing information flashlight and dress for a service un- Help feed the homeless and fami- people of all ages. der the stars and twinkling lights of at (727) 531-5829. In the oldest records of the Maccabean victory, there is no men- lies at the Daystar Life Center Adult play time: Play mah South Straub Park at the congrega- by gathering in the social hall on tion of this so-called miracle. The initial legends stressed the military tion’s annual Havdala in downtown jongg, Mexican Train Dominoes prowess of the . The legend of the oil burning for eight days Sunday, Dec. 17 at 9:30 a.m. to or Bridge on Thursdays at 1 p.m. St. Petersburg on Saturday, Jan. 6 at schmooze and make sandwiches came to the fore some 300 years after the recapture of the Temple and 6:30 p.m. Meet at the Bicentennial Join active seniors and play the the festival of rededication. The rabbis chose to emphasize the miracle for folks at Daystar. game of your choice. Coffee and Fountain in South Straub Park, 198 For more information, contact because they were great pacifists. They had seen too many examples of Bayshore Dr. N.E. cake is served. attempts at armed rebellion resulting in great destruction. Instead, they Paula at (727) 254-6436. For more information, contact In case of rain, the service will wanted to emphasize dedication – the literal be rescheduled. This event is free Linda White at linda33217@ meaning of the word Hanukkah, not warfare. Chabad of St. Petersburg gmail.com or (727) 688-0626. and open to the community. Social Chinese buffet and mov- In so doing, they sought to stress the difference events to follow include a Jewbilees Food Fest help needed: between our people and all others: Other peo- ie: Take in a kosher dinner and Vendors are needed for the second (Baby Boomer) Dinner at Meze 119 movie for the whole family on ple might trust in the power of arms, but that and ish (20ish – 40ish) meet-up at annual Tampa Bay Jewish Food would never insure their survival. Our people Sunday, Dec. 24 at 4 p.m. The cost Hawkers Asian Street Fair. Festival on Sunday Feb. 28. Be a would trust in God’s spirit, and in the process, is $10. RSVP to info@ChabadSP. RSVP recommended for both part of a community-wide event. survive. com. social events to [email protected] Contact Enid Newmark at Hundreds of years after the initial legend, Lunch and learn: Women or call the synagogue office. [email protected] or call (727) the medieval rabbis proposed a midrash on a are invited to share an hour of ca- Lunch with rabbi: Enjoy a 712-1333. midrash: They asked why Hanukkah should maraderie, inspiration and lunch at deli lunch with Rabbi Jacob Luski last for eight days; if the oil lasted seven days a Lunch and Learn session at the Cong. B’nai Emmunah longer than expected, then there was no miracle on the first day. They and partake in Mishna study on Chabad Jewish Center on Thurs- then provided the answer, that the miracle of the first day was the fact Wednesday, Dec. 13 at noon in the day, Dec. 21 at noon. There is no Tarpon Springs Medical ethics: Rabbi Lynn that the Maccabees lit the oil in the first place. It was an act of hope, atrium. Submit your lunch order by charge for the event. RSVPs are Goldstein will conclude a series performed even when it seemed futile. Tuesday, Dec. 12 to Pam Askin in appreciated but not necessary. of classes on medical ethics on Thus, we see a second – even greater – miracle performed within the synagogue office. To RSVP, email Chaya@ Rosh Hodesh Group: Thursdays, Dec. 21 and Jan. 4, the first – the ability to act with hope, even when all hope seems to be Rela- ChabadSP.com or call (727) 344- both at 7 p.m. The Dec. 21 class gone. Perhaps this message is so subtle that it is hardly even noticed. tionships in the Torah are the topic 4900. is on medical ethics and the Ho- But the message gets across, with a meaning for many different of discussion in this women-only people: monthly meeting on Sunday, Dec. Cong. Beth Sholom locaust and the Jan. 4 topic is on People with addictions: When they get sick and tired of getting sick 17 at 10:30 a.m. The group meets cloning, transplants, stem cells and tired, there is a reason to start over, to walk the road to recovery. in a different congregant’s home Gulfport and more. The dates have changed Seeking donations: The Anyone who undergoes serious illness or surgery: It is not the end of each month. Contact the synagogue from those previously announced. congregation’s annual flea market your life, but rather the beginning of a new phase of life. Our capabili- office at (727) 381-4900 to learn RSVPs are requested at (727) is not until next spring, but dona- ties are diminished, but we can still live and function with them. more. 938-9000. tions are being sought for the event People in troubled relationships: Love and marriage need tune-ups; Talmud Made Easy: On communication and understanding do not happen on their own. When Tuesday, Dec. 19 at 5 p.m., Steve already. Those who have items to Temple Ahavat Shalom we find ourselves in times of crisis, there are ways and means to bring Wein continues leading a study of give should call the synagogue at (727) 321-3380. Palm Harbor these precious relationships back on track. Talmudic text and selected com- Torah study: Congregant Su- People who have lost their youthful idealism: The scars of experi- mentaries. All materials will be san Segal teaches a Torah study ence need not rob us of our idealism. Indeed, it can lead to pragmatism provided. The class involves tex- Temple B’nai Israel class on Thursdays from noon to that will help us accomplish what, in our youthful naivete, we could tual analysis, lively discussion, Clearwater 1:15 p.m. Bring a lunch, and of not do. and is open to all. The class is free; Bible study: Explore the Sec- course, opinions. No prior knowl- Hanukkah can speak to people in every stage and situation in life. As no previous knowledge is needed. ond Book of Samuel and discover edge or attendance is required. The children, we remember a simple lesson – that of the fantastic miracle. Blue Jeans Shabbat: Don a unique period of Jewish histo- class will use the book The Torah: As adults, we can learn of an even greater miracle – the ability to act some denim to welcome Shabbat ry. Rabbi Daniel Treiser leads the A Woman’s Commentary. with hope, even when hope seems to be gone. If we can learn this les- on Friday, Dec. 22 at 5:30 p.m. for classes on Wednesdays from 7-8 Adult education class: son, we learn new meanings for the second blessing which we recite a Blue Jeans Kabbalat Shabbat. p.m. There is no fee for members; Rabbi Gary Klein’s Tuesday on this holiday: Praised is God…who performed miracles for our an- Torah study: Join in a month- $30 for non-members for the year. morning adult education class will cestors in days of old, and who continues to perform them for us at all ly Torah discussion led by members Playtime: Preschoolers and begin this winter and meet on Tues- times. of the congregation on Saturday, their parents can enjoy playtime days at 11 a.m in the social hall. The Happy Hannukah! Dec. 30 following Shabbat morn- on Sunday, Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. Rabbi welcomes your suggestions ing services. Bring an interest in to noon. This is an opportunity for for course topics. The Rabbinically Speaking column is provided as a public service Torah, quest for knowledge, and families with young children to basics: A new by the Jewish Press in cooperation with the Pinellas County Board of curiosity as the group searches meet one another, and engage in Introduction to Judaism class be- Rabbis. Columns are assigned on a rotating basis by the board. The for insight over lunch and discov- fun activities with their tots. Non- gan on Nov. 5 and will continue views expressed in the column are those of the rabbi and do not neces- ers new ways of making Torah members are welcome. sarily reflect the views of the Jewish Press or the Board of Rabbis. relevant. Call the temple office for full • CONTINUED on NEXT PAGE Religious Directory PINELLAS COUNTY • Telephone: (727) 531-1418 • Website: www.cbsclearwater.org • Affiliated PASCO COUNTY Reform with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. Conservative Temple AHAVAT SHALOM — 1575 Curlew Rd., Palm Harbor, 34683 • Rabbi Congregation BETH SHOLOM — 1844 54th St. S., Gulfport 33707 • Cantor BETH TEfILLAH/JCC Of WEST PASCO — 9841 Scenic Drive, Port Richey, Gary Klein • Services: Friday: 7:30 p.m., First Friday: 6 p.m., Saturday: David Wicentowski • Services: Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. • Telephone: (727) 34668 • Ron Becker and Elliot Shapiro, spiritual leaders • Services: traditional service third week of the month. 9 a.m., call for other service 321-3380 • Website: sholomgulfport.org • Unaffiliated. Friday, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, 9:30 a.m. • Telephone: (727) 847-3814 • website: jewishcommunitycenterofwestpasco.com • Email at: Eileenhoch- times • Telephone: (727) 785-8811 • Website: www. ahavatshalom.org • Congregation B’NAI ISRAEL Affiliated with Union for Reform Judaism — 300 58th St. N., St. Petersburg 33710 • Rabbi [email protected] • Unaffiliated Jacob Luski • Cantor Jonathan Schultz • Services: Friday 7:30 p.m., Temple BETH-EL — 400 S. Pasadena Ave., St. Petersburg 33707 • Rabbi Saturday 9 a.m., Mon. - Fri. 7:45 a.m., Sun. 9 a.m.; evening minyan, 6:30 Orthodox Michael Torop • Services: Friday 7:30 p.m., Saturday, service and Torah p.m. • Telephone: (727) 381-4900 • Website: www.cbistpete.org.• Affiliated CHABAD Of WEST PASCO —Rabbi Yossi Eber • 10733 Maple Creek Dr., study, 10 a.m. • Telephone: (727) 347-6136 • Website: www.templebeth-el. with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. Suite 101, Trinity, FL 34655 • Services: Saturday, 9:30 a.m.; class: 10 com • Affiliated with Union for Reform Judaism Orthodox a.m., • Telephone: (727) 376-3366 • Website:www.ChabadWP.org • email: [email protected] Congregation B’NAI EMMUNAH — 57 Read St., Tarpon Springs, 34689 CHABAD of CLEARWATER — 2280 Belleair Road, Clearwater, 33764 • Rabbi • Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1312, Tarpon Springs, 34688 • Rabbi Lynn Levi Hodakov • Services: Call for information on Friday service times, HERNANDO COUNTY Goldstein • Services: Friday: 7:30 p.m. • Torah study Saturday, 10:30 a.m. Sunday, 9:30 a.m., men only • Telephone: (727) 265-2770 • Website: www. Reform • Telephone: (727) 938-9000 • Affiliated with Union for Reform Judaism JewishClearwater.com • email: [email protected]. Temple BETH DAVID — 13158 Antelope St., Spring Hill • Rabbi Paul Temple B’NAI ISRAEL — 1685 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater, 33764 • Rabbi CHABAD JEWISH CENTER Of GREATER ST. PETERSBURG — 4010 Park St. N., Schreiber • Shabbat Serivces: Friday, 7:30 p.m., third Friday traditional ser- Daniel Treiser • cantorial soloist, Laura Berkson • Services: Friday, 7:30 St. Petersburg 33709 • Rabbi Alter Korf • Services: Saturday, 9:30 a.m.; vice, 7:30 p.m. • Saturday, 10 a.m. • Telephone: (352) 686-7034 • Website: p.m. • Telephone: (727) 531-5829 • Website: www.TBIclearwater.org • Shacharit, Mon.-Thurs., 7:15 a.m., Torah study at 10:30 a.m. on Sturday, www.tbdfl.org. Affiliated with Union for Reform Judaism. Affiliated with Union for Reform Judaism Sun., 8 a.m.; • Telephone: (727) 344-4900 • Website: www.chabadsp.com. Orthodox Conservative CHABAD of PINELLAS COUNTY — 3696 Fisher Road, Palm Harbor, 34683 CHABAD SPRING HILL — 13576 Hunters Point St, Spring Hill, 34609 • Rabbi Congregation BETH SHALOM — 1325 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater 33764 • Rabbi Pinchas Adler • Services: Friday, 5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. Chaim Lipszyc • Services: Monthly First Friday call for times Telephone: • Rabbi David Weizman • Rabbi Danielle Upbin, associate • Services: and 5:30 p.m • Telephone: (727) 789-0408 • Website: Yichabad.com. (352) 600-2779 • Website: chabadspringhill.com Friday: 6:30 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m., Sunday 9 a.m., Mon. & Thurs 8:30 a.m. DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 7

The holiday of light side) were Holo- Hanukkah has another name in Israel, “the Holiday caust survivors of Light.” It is in this holiday that occurs about a month Mor About who lost family after we change the clocks to winter time (day light sav- members during ings time as you call it here), when sunset is earlier and Israel that war. more time of the day is dark – when we celebrate light Yael Mor On Hanukkah, “One day” gives and its different meanings – hope, warmth, happiness Israel Shlicha [Emissary] and joy. I have had the opportunity to celebrate Hanuk- each volunteer a kah in two very different ways. small hanukkiah I remember Hanukkah in my kibbutz, Giva’at Brenner. segment of the race and then passes it on to another one. with some candles It’s one of our favorite holidays and not just because of When the kids arrive sweating and tired from running, and sufganiot and the doughnuts (sufganiot). Kindergartens are filled with everyone cheers and applauds them. The race ends with matches him/her kids playing dreidel and singing Hanukkah songs. El- the Hanukkah ceremony where we light the ner rishon with a survivor ementary school kids decorate the dining hall windows with the relay race torch. We end the night with chil- who lives in the with handmade hanukkiah and dreidel decorations, while dren’s performances and adult singing and dancing. area. We, the vol- the rest of the kibbutz members prepare themselves for That is my childhood memory of Hanukkah, a very unteers, visit the the Hanukkah ceremony of ner rishon (first candle), in happy one with a clear sense of togetherness. However, survivor’s home, which everyone has a part. We gather around the dining during the last three years I wasn’t able to celebrate hear their stories Yael’s nephew and niece holding hall square about an hour before the ceremony, eat suf- Hanukkah at the kibbutz, because I lived in Be’er Sheva and light ner handmade lampions ganiot, have a handmade Hanukkiah contest, light up our studying for my bachelor’s degree in geography. During rishon together. lampions (portable “candle house”) and march toward those years, Hanukkah got another meaning for me. I Every time I took part in this program I had the chance, the Hanukkah ceremony. took part in a volunteer program called “One Day.” One and in my eyes the privilege, to meet someone new, a The tradition is that b’nai mitzvot kids leave early Day’s main idea is to give people who want to volunteer, person who went through so much in his/her life but that morning by car for the city of Modi’in (the legend- but can’t obligate for a long term, the opportunity to stayed strong to go through it all. I got the meaning of ary home of the Maccabees, located about 12.5 miles volunteer for one day at a time. Each day in the program light in a whole different way. To see their faces light up west of our kibbutz). There they light a torch and start a has a different cause. Hanukkah’s cause was always the when they open the door and to see how happy they are relay race towards the Hanukkah ner rishon ceremony at same – Holocaust survivors. This cause is close to my to meet and talk with someone new felt like a true and the kibbutz, where all other members of the kibbutz are heart not just because I’m Jewish but also because both current miracle of Hanukkah. waiting for them. Each participant holds the torch for a my grandfather and my grandmother (from my mother’s

for members and $5 per class for Toni Rinde to tell her survivor’s story at dinner Congregations non-members. • CONTINUED from PREVIOUS PAGE Judaism class: A free Jewish Chabad of Clearwater invites the was a difficult transition for Rinde. conversion class will be held on community to a special Shabbat The family eventually came to the in the months ahead on Sundays ing the foundations of Mussar as it Saturdays at 1 p.m., conducted by dinner on Friday, Dec. 22, with Ho- United States, where they settled in at 10:30 a.m. This class, taught relates to the weekly Torah portion Rabbi Schreiber. locaust survivor and hidden child, New . by Rabbi Klein, is appropriate for and one’s own inner development. Talmud for beginners: This Toni Rinde. While in college, Rinde was non-Jewish spouses and significant Each session will incorporate time class, already under way, is held ev- Rinde, a longtime leader in the introduced to her husband John others; those considering adopting for meditation and other mindful- ery Wednesday at 8 p.m., except for Pinellas Jewish community, was Rinde, another Holocaust survivor. Judaism as their faith, and those ness practices. the third Wednesday of the month. born in Przemysl, Poland, in 1940, “Toni is a very busy woman and who are already Jewish who wish Hafarot study: Join Johan- It is free for members and $5 per about 14 months after the inva- I’ve been trying for a long time now to review and enhance their knowl- na Bromberg for Hafarot study in class for non-members. sion of Poland. The town’s Jews to have her tell her very important edge of Judaism. New students are the synagogue library on Wednes- were rounded up into a ghetto, but story,” said Chabad of Clearwater welcome at anytime. day, Dec. 20 at 10 a.m. at first were still able to leave on Rabbi Levi Hodakov. The course fee is $100 per person Jewish spirituality: Rabbi Chabad of Spring Hill Torah studies: The Jewish short trips. A full Shabbat dinner will be or couple, for non-members. There Danielle Upbin leads a series of community is invited to attend On one such trip in early 1942, served. Candle lighting and ser- is no fee for temple members. lectures on Jewish spirituality, on Torah study classes, with bagels, Rinde’s parents, Stanley and Lusia vices will take place at 5:15 p.m. Mah jongg: The temple’s Thursdays from 12:30 - 2 p.m. The on Wednesdays from noon to 1 Sisterhood invites women to open class continues through Dec. 21. Igel, met a Polish woman who with the dinner and talk starting at p.m. The classes, taught by Rabbi mah jongg sessions on Tuesdays at The course is exploring the founda- agreed to shelter the 16-month-old 5:30 p.m. Cost is $18 per person and Chaim Lipszyc, are not sequential, 1 p.m. Contact Debbie Rosen at tions of Mussar as it relates to the baby as a Catholic girl. $180 for sponsors. RSVP by Dec. so folks can drop in for any class. (727) 686-2931. weekly Torah portion and one’s Her parents, also managed to 15 online at JewishClearwater. The first class is free then the fee is own inner development. Each escape the ghetto and were at com or call: (727) 265-2770. $7 per class. session will incorporate time for times partisans in the woods until The Tabacinic Chabad Center Chabad of Pinellas For more information, call Ro meditation and other mindfulness the war ended when they were is located at 2280 Belleair Road, Kerschner at (352) 746-6258. Palm Harbor practices. reunited with their daughter. This Clearwater. Women & Shabbat: The second in a series titled “Pause and Affect,” a Rosh Chodesh Women’s Chabad of Clearwater Torah and tea: Rebbetzin Society learning group, will be Miriam Hodakov leads a “Torah taught by Mushky Adler on Mon- and Tea” exclusively for women on day, Dec. 11. Wednesdays at 11:15 a.m. There is The course is exploring meaning- no charge to attend. RSVP to Miri- ful ways women can enrich their The persal ati you d erve [email protected] or (727) lives through the lessons of Shab- 265-2770. bat. Each class is a self-contained unit. Women of every level of Cong. Beth Tefillah/ Our strategy is simple. Provide solid, straightforward financial solutions that observance are invited. are in the best interest of our clients. Scholarships are available. To JCC of West Pasco sign up or for more information, Port Richey With the resources of a regional bank and the agility of a community bank, call (727) 487-1521 or visit yich- Adult education: A class to our clients benefit from wide variety of products that are delivered by abad.com/women. study Pirkei Avot (Ethics of our experienced professionals in a personalized manner. Ancestors) and its relevance to Cong. Beth Shalom Jewish life in the 21st century will be offered on Sundays from 10 - 11 Neil Horowitz is a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor and Accredited Clearwater Wealth Management Advisor with over 17 years of banking industry Shabbat dinner: a.m. The class is free, but donations The con- experience. gregation will celebrate Hanukkah are welcome. and new members at a musical Shabbat service on Friday, Dec. Cong. Beth David He works closely with clients in Tampa Bay to develop comprehensive plans 15 at 6:30 p.m. A congregational Spring Hill for their personal and business financial needs. Shabbat dinner will follow. Genealogy talk: The Sister- Talmud classes: On Mon- hood of Temple Beth David, is days, explore ancient legal tradi- having a Hanukkah luncheon on tion with Dr. Priscilla Nathan- Tuesday, Dec. 12, at 11a.m. Bruce son. The class, open to all levels Hadburg, president of the Jewish of knowledge, is held after minyan Genealogical Society of Tampa from 10 - 11:15 a.m. Nathanson Bay, will speak on “Explore Your also leads a Talmud study on most Roots.” There will be Hanuk- Wednesdays, at 7 p.m. and will also kah appetizers, salads, kugel, lead a Talmud study class on most latkes,and desserts. The cost is $7 Neil Horowitz, CRPC®, AWMA® Thursdays at 7 p.m. for Sisterhood members and $12 Vice President, Private Client Relationship Manager Contact the synagogue office to for non-members. 727-201-5538 / [email protected] confirm when classes will be held. RSVP immediately by calling NMLS #641850 Jewish spirituality: Rabbi (352) 592-4930 or (352) 686-5754. Danielle Upbin leads a series of Torah study: Rabbi Paul www.iberiabank.com lectures on Jewish spirituality, on Schreiber will conduct Torah Thursdays, Dec. 14 and 21 from study classes on Mondays at 10:30 12:30 - 2 p.m. The course is explor- a.m. and 7 p.m. The classes are free PAGE 8 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017

ABC Bicycles Turns out, a Jewish woman was Miss Germany in 2011 6633 Central Avenue By JOSEFIN DOLSTEN St. Petersburg, FL 33710 JTA news service 727-345-5391 Abcbicycles.com Last week, the story of a Jewish woman competing in the Miss Germany competition went viral, appear- Trek Bicycle Store ing in JTA along with media outlets around the world. Bring Tamar Morali, 21, said organizers told her she was the This Ad 3169 4th Street North % St. Petersburg, FL 33704 first Jewish woman to get this far in the beauty pageant. & Save 15 It turns out the story – and the world of beauty pag- Bicycles and labor not included. Coupons may not 727-498-8655 be combined with other offers and may only be Trekstpete.com eants in general – isn’t as straightforward as it seems. used on regular priced (not sale) items. Coupons are not good on prior sales. In 2011, a Jewish woman, Valeria Bystritskaia, Hours: M-F 10-6 | Sat. 10-5 | Sun. 12-4 was crowned Miss Germany. But out of fear of anti- Exclusive Dealer Trek Bicycles Semitism, Bystritskaia, a Russia native who moved Full Service Bicycle Repairs, Est. 1958 to Germany at the age of 7, kept her Jewish heritage a secret. To add to the confusion, JTA found out that the • Critically acclaimed chef two women competed in two different Miss Germany Photo courtesy of Bystriskaia • Creative new American cuisine with a competitions. Bystriskaia won the Ger- Valeria Bystriskaia being crowned Miss Universe Germany Mediterranean flair many competition, meaning she went on to compete in , July 7, 2011. • Casually elegant ambiance for the international Miss Universe crown. Morali, meanwhile, is competing in a pageant organized by to America.” • Extensive selection of fine wines & spirits the Miss Germany Corporation, which is not affiliated Bystritskaia, who speaks five languages – Russian, • Outdoor sidewalk café dining with the Miss Universe. English, German, Italian and French – settled in New • “O to Go” gourmet carryout Bystritskaia, 31, is the Moscow-born daughter of a York, whose vibrant Jewish community helped recon- • Upscale martini bar Ukrainian-Jewish mother and Russian father. In 1993, nect her to her roots. She attended synagogue for the • Champagne Sunday brunch she told JTA, she and her mother moved to Germany second time ever. • Wine dinners & monthly Chef table to escape anti-Semitism, eventually settling in the city Judaism also connected her to her husband, Joel Your Neighborhood Restaurant • Private dining room available (seats 50) of Karlsruhe. Her mother warned her not to tell anyone Mowbray, the founder of Fourth Factor Consulting, & Martini Bar about her Jewish heritage, though Bystritskaia said she which works with Silicon Valley technology compa- was bullied in school for being a foreigner. nies and pro-Israel think tanks. The pair met in 2016 T he Experience makes you say “O” At 17, she was discovered by a modeling agent, and during kiddush at Jewish Experience, an after four years of modeling she entered her first beauty organization for young Jewish professionals. They • 6661 Central Avenue • pageant. She went on to win more than 30 titles, and wed the following year in Aspen, CO. • 727.381.1212 • at age 25 she was crowned Miss Universe Germany. Bystritskaia is still modeling, as well as pursuing an She represented Germany in the Miss Universe 2011 acting career. Her mother, still in Germany, is pleased pageant, although she did not place in the top 16. her daughter made the U.S. move. Bystritskaia said organizers never asked about her “She’s so happy for me that I’m able to live as a Jew, religious background and she did not tell anyone, so openly and free, without any fear in America,” Bys- the fact that she was Jewish was never reported. tritskaia told JTA in a telephone interview. “She was Following her victory, however, Bystritskaia expe- so touched that I was able to have a Jewish wedding.” rienced anti-Semitic harassment on social media. She JTA was not able to verify whether Bystritskaia said she’s still not sure how people found out about her was the first Jewish woman to win the Miss Universe Jewish background. Germany crown. Organizer Kim Kotter said there have “The worst was someone who wrote ‘Hitler forgot been other Jewish contestants and suggested an earlier about her and her family,’” she told JTA in an email winner may also have had Jewish roots. this week. However, the woman Kotter mentioned told JTA she That spurred her to leave the country. did not have Jewish ancestry. “It was that reaction, in fact, that convinced me that “We really like a cultural group of finalists,” Kotter I couldn’t live as a Jew in Germany,” she said. “My told JTA in an email. “Many of our girls have a mixed title period ended in 2012, and by 2013, I had moved background, and also Jewish.” Crist, Bilirakis bill seeks to curb illicit Iranian military buildup Two Bay area congressman, ing efforts to contain and curb tolerated.” U.S. Rep. , Democrat ’s agressions. Bilirakis added, “Despite the of St. Petersburg, and U.S. Rep. “Iran’s aggressive actions re- Iran Deal, Iran continues to dem- Gus Bilirakis, Republican of Palm main a threat to America, Israel, onstrate its commitment to tyranny Harbor, introduced bipartisan leg- and the rest of the world. As the through its continued support and islation prohibiting U.S. military top state sponsor of terrorism, spread of terror in an effort to de- assistance to any country that sells Iran’s nefarious pursuit of re- stabilize the Middle East. As we restricted weapons or technology stricted weapons further destabi- work with allies to keep the pres- to Iran. lizes the region,” said Crist. “Our sure on Iran, we must ensure our The No Arms Sales to Iran Act bill sends a strong message to efforts are not being undermined aims to discourage others in the in- countries considering arms deals by other nations and, if so, that ternational community from arms with Iran that supporting state they are exposed and held ac- sales that could undermine ongo- sponsors of terrorism will not be countable.” Jewish campus groups, national security network teaming up WASHINGTON (JTA) – Four national Jewish or- the organizations recognized “that conditions on cam- ganizations involved in advocating for Jewish univer- puses and student organizations required a collective sity students have launched an initiative to coordinate and collaborative approach to deal with Jewish secu- on security with the national umbrella for Jewish se- rity issues.” curity. One of the triggers for the cooperative venture was Michael Masters, the incoming director of the Se- a May 2016 protest of the screening of a pro-Israel cure Community Network, the security arm of na- movie at the University of California, Irvine, Masters tional Jewish community organizations, told JTA this said. Protesters kept those attending the film from By Hugh Whitemore week that the Jewish Federations of North America, leaving the room. Hillel International, Chabad and the AEPi fraternity The Hillel vice president of communications, Mat- were jointly cooperating on the initiative. thew Berger, confirmed the arrangement. He said the initiative began about a year ago, when “Hillel International believes the safety of our stu- dents and professionals is of the utmost importance,” he said in an email. “Given that both Jewish institu- tions and college campuses have been targeted for violence in recent years, we recognize the need to provide our campuses with the expertise to better pro- tect their facilities and programs. By partnering with SCN, we are able to offer Hillels a direct resource to assess their facilities and prepare for potential sce- The story of mathematician Alan Turing, who devised the means of cracking the narios.” German Enigma code which helped win World War II. He also “broke the code” by being SCN and its partners coordinated with law enforce- unapologetically homosexual at a time when being gay was illegal in Great Britain. ment during the “alt-right” rally in Charlottesville, January 11 - 21 VA, in August; some of the marches took place on the University of Virginia campus. There was similar Catherine hiCkman theater th coordination more recently when Richard Spencer, a 26 & Beach Blvd, Gulfport white supremacist, spoke at the University of Florida, Thur-Fri-Sat @8PM I Sat & Sun @2PM which has the largest Jewish student population out- TickeTS: $18 online I $20 lobby side of Israel. (cash only, one hour before show time) The initiative also leads campus student organiza- www.GulfportCommunityPlayers.org tions in training in how to respond if there is an active Produced by special permission of Samuel French, Inc. shooter and on how to secure facilities. DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 9 Here are eight new children’s books for Hanukkah By PENNY SCHWARTZ dosas, are included. climbs aboard his flying Hanuk- JTA news service kopter to deliver eight nights of BOSTON – Move over, po- The Missing Letters: presents to children. Placing one tato latkes. Make room for dosas. A Dreidel Story family’s presents next to their Ha- The savory fried Indian lentil and Renee Londner; illustrated by nukkah menorah, Harvie bumps rice pancakes take center stage in Iryna Bodnaruk; ages 4-9 into a red-suited jolly Santa Claus Queen of the Dosas, a gem of a Wooden come to life piling gifts under their Christ- new Hanukkah book by the award- in this heartwarming page turner. mas tree. Harvey and Santa go winning children’s writer Pamela On the eve of Hanukkah, in a on to discover some other homes Ehrenberg. dreidel maker’s shop, there are with both menorahs and Christ- It’s among eight new Hanukkah some bad feelings among the He- mas trees and get into a rollick- books for kids – one for each night brew letters painted on the four- ing present-giving competition. of the holiday– sure to kindle the sided spinning toy. The nun, hey A young girl who spies them in flames of imagination in young and shin are jealous of the gimel, action puts the quarreling pair to readers. considered the favorite letter in shame, and let’s them in on the The bounty of this season’s the game of chance, and decide joy of celebrating the two holi- books travel the globe, from city to hide all of them. Among Iryna days happening at about the same life to wooded forests, with en- Bodnaruk’s animated illustrations time each year – thus the Christ- gaging – and many humorous – is a double-page spread that is like mukkah mashup. stories and dazzling illustrations a puzzle; kids can follow clues to man,” and others. For teens: that reflect the diversity in how find where the gimels have been For toddlers: Grover’s Eight Nights of Light Spies & Scholars Jewish families celebrate the hol- hidden. The Itsy Bitsy Dreidel Jodie Shepherd; Yehudis Litvak iday. Old World traditions mix it Jeffrey Burton and Chani Tor- illustrated by Joe Mathieu The historical fiction adventure up with new rituals taking root in Hanukkah Harvie vs. Santa Claus: now; illustrated by Sanja Rescek Young fans of Sesame Street is set during the reign of the Greek today’s modern American Jewish The Christmukkah Kerfuffle A delightful read-aloud board enjoy a Hanukkah party at Gro- King Antiochus in ancient Israel families. David Michael Slater; illustrat- book for the youngest kids who ver’s house along with their fa- where the Maccabees are fighting These new reads showcase the ed by Michelle Simpson; ages will enjoy the playful rhymes as vorite Sesame Street characters. the Greeks. The 200-page teen read many ways Jewish families from 5-8 the lively little dreidel celebrates The book features lighting the me- is geared to Orthodox Jewish teen all walks of life celebrate the Fes- On the first night of Hanuk- Hanukkah. This is the latest in the norah, eating latkes and playing readers and published by Jewish tival of Lights kah, Hanukkah Harvie oils up upbeat Itsy Bitsy board book se- dreidel. Stickers, Hanukkah cards Children’s Book Club in conjunc- his steampunk-like machinery to ries that includes the “Itsy Bitsy and a poster with a Hanukkah par- tion with Torah Umesorah-National Way Too Many Latkes: produce all the gifts he needs and Pilgrim,” the “Itsy Bitsy Snow- ty game are included. Society for Hebrew Day Schools. A Hanukkah in Chelm Linda Glaser; illustrated by Aleksandar Zolotic; ages 3-8 Oy vey! It’s the first night of Ha- nukkah and Faigel, the best latke maker in the village of Chelm, for- got the recipe for her mouth-wa- tering, sizzling potato pancakes. Her husband, Shmuel, races over to the village rabbi for advice. But what does the rabbi know about making latkes? This ticklishly fun adventure, set in the fictional Old World town of Chelm – the source of enduring Jewish storytelling – will have kids laughing as they wonder how Faigel and Shmuel solve their problem. Aleksandar Zolotic’s large format, animation- style illustrations are perfectly paired for the lively story.

Little Red Ruthie: A Hanukkah Tale Gloria Koster; illustrated by Sue Eastland; ages 4-8 This uplifting spin on “Little Red Riding Hood” features a spirited young girl named Ruthie setting off on the eve of Hanuk- kah to visit her bubbe, so they can cook up potato latkes for the holiday. In the snow-packed forest Ruthie, bundled up in a bright red hooded parka, meets a not overly menacing-looking wolf. Ruthie summons her courage and smarts as she recalls the brave Maccabee heroes of Hanukkah who fought for religious freedom for the Jews in ancient Israel. But will Ruthie’s clever schemes outsmart the hun- gry but foolish wolf, who has fun dressing up in bubbe’s colorful clothing?

Queen of the Hanukkah Dosas Pamela Ehrenberg; illustrated by Anjar Sarkar; ages 4-7 In this humor-filled tale, an en- dearing school-age boy in a mul- ticultural Indian-Jewish family can hardly contain his enthusiasm for his family’s special Hanuk- kah celebration of making dosas, Indian fried pancakes made with lentils, called dal, and rice. But his younger sister, Sadie, who can’t resist her urge to climb on everything, may spoil the fun. Anjar Sarkar’s colorful, cartoon- like illustrations add giggles and put readers in on the action. Reci- pes for Dosas and Sambar, a veg- etable-based filling or dip for the PAGE 10 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017

beautiful open year round lakeside 7 days a week Hanukkah Happenings dining Information received as of press time: by religious school students. Donations of toiletry items will be collected. open NORTH PINELLAS take out christmas Congregation B’nai Emmunah will hold a Shabbat order day Hanukkah Celebration with Cantorial Soloist Laura Lenes SOUTH PINELLAS (727) 391-8393 noon - 9:30 pm on Friday, Dec. 15. There will be a Shabbat dinner at a Build your own menorah at a Hanukkah workshop local restaurant in Tarpon Springs at 5:45 p.m., followed on Sunday, Dec. 10 from 2-4 p.m. at the Home Depot by a Shabbat Hanukkah service at 7:30 p.m. at B’nai Em- in the Crosswinds Shopping Center. 2026 66th St. N., Park Place center • 9015 Park Blvd. Seminole, Florida 33777 munah, 57 Read St., Tarpon Springs. For more information, St. Petersburg. There will be music and refreshments (1 1/2 BlockS weSt oF Starkey) call (727) 938-9000. and a free worker’s apron. This is a free, family event, A A A sponsored by Chabad of St. Petersburg. RSVPs are Chabad of Pinellas County will hold a Hanukkah necessary as the event is limited to 50 children. To RSVP, Shabbat Dinner on Friday, Dec. 15 at 6:15 p.m. at the go to ChabadSP.com or call (727) 344-4900. Chabad Center, 3696 Fisher Road, Palm Harbor. There A A A will be jokes and inspiration by Rabbi Pinchas Adler, a Hanukkah in the City, a celebration of the first night of along with catered meal with a Hanukkah twist and a grand dreidel Hanukkah hosted by Chabad of St. Petersburg., will be competition. The cost is $25 for adults and $13 for held at the Sundial, 153 Second Ave. N., St. Petersburg children, with RSVPs due immediately. RSVP to www. on Tuesday, Dec. 12. There will be the lighting of a 9-foot Margie’s Interiors, Inc. yichabad.com or call (727) 789-0408. menorah during a communitywide celebration, with A A A St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman and state Sen. Jeff CARPET • TILE • WOOD • VINYL Brandes as well as other local dignitaries expected to be On Saturday, Dec. 16 at 5 p.m., Congregation B’nai in attendance. The ceremony will begin at 5 p.m. with CABINETRY • GRANITE • REMODELING Emmunah will host a Hanukkah celebration that will music, hot latkes, doughnuts, gifts and holiday cheer, include a pot luck dairy dinner, stories and songs featur- UPHOLSTERY • FABRICS • DRAPES • SHADES followed by the menorah lighting ceremony at 5:45 ing Cantorial Soloist Laura Lenes and accompanist Stan p.m. Direct from Israel, singer-songwriter and virtuoso …same location since 1956! Sabarsky. BBB rating: A+ Contractor Lic. # C-10611 & 12 guitarist Lazer Lloyd will be live in concert. Activities and A A A 1633 S. Missouri Ave., Clearwater entertainment will include stilt walking, face painting, Temple Ahavat Shalom, 1575 Curlew Road, Palm 727.441.3900 • www.drapes2floors.com a fire eating show, arts and crafts, kosher food, candies Harbor, will hold its Family Hanukkah party on Sunday, and more at this free family-friendly event. Food will Dec. 17 at 11:30 a.m. Join the congregation for a chil- be available for purchase. For more information, visit dren’s choir performance, food, holiday treats, arts and ChabadSP.com. crafts activities and a children’s raffle. For more informa- A A A tion, call Susan Herron at (215) 882-4754. Congregation Beth Sholom of Gulfport, will A A A hold menorah lighting ceremonies on each night Young Israel Chabad of Pinellas County invites the of Hanukkah at two parks where the synagogue has community to the 12th annual Hanukkah on Ice on donated menorahs. The first menorah lighting will Sunday, Dec. 17 from 5:45 – 7:45 p.m. at the skating take place Tuesday, Dec. 12 at 5:30 p.m. at Treasure rink in Westfield Countryside Mall, 27001 U.S. 19 N., Island Municipal Park, 10400 Gulf Blvd., followed by Clearwater. There will be fun for kids and adults includ- a second menorah lighting at 6 p.m. at Clymer Park on ing a grand fidget spinner menorah lighting at 6:30 p.m. Beach Drive and 22nd Avenue in Gulfport. Gulfport The evening includes ice skating, , latkes Councilman Michael Fridozich will be the honored and doughnuts, face painting, balloon sculpting, Ha- guest at the Clymer Park event, which will be followed nukkah gelt and more. Kids can make their own fidget by coffee and cake at the synagogue, 1844 54th St. S. spinner Lego dreidel. Admission is free, but RSVP is re- A A A quired. RSVP to www.YIChabad.com/Ice or call (727) On Thursday, Dec. 14, there will be a Hanukkah 789-0408. celebration at Congregation Beth Sholom of Gulfport at 6:30 p.m. The festivities will include singing, dancing, CENTRAL PINELLAS latkes and dreidels. All are invited. Chabad of Clearwater will hold its third annual A A A Grand Hanukkah Celebration in front of the Surf Style megastore, 315 S. Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater Beach, Congregation Beth-El, 400 S. Pasadena Ave., St. Peters- on Tuesday, Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. The event will feature burg, will celebrate Hanukkah with its 101 Menorahs event what is being promoted as the first-ever lighting of a on Friday, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. This is for families of all ages. falafel menorah. In addition, there will be a perfor- Following a short service, congregants will light their meno- mance by classical guitarist Carl Rutenberg who sings rahs, play games and eat doughnuts from a food truck. There in 10 languages, along with a mad science show, latkes, will be a “Dreidel Turn-ament,” candle-making, and games doughnuts, driedels, chocolate gelt and a special gift for for adults, too. To top it off, the Jammin’ Jews will perform. children. A menorah building contest for boys and girls RSVP to [email protected] to receive a food truck ages 2-14 will also be held that evening. Menorahs can fastpass and avoid the lines for doughnuts. A A A be made of almost anything but the height and width can not exceed 3 feet and they must be considered “kosher.” Congregation B’nai Israel in St. Petersburg will hold Entrants must be present to win. The contest grand prize a Hanukkah party on Sunday, Dec. 17 at 5:30 p.m. as winner will receive $50 and the runner-up will receive participants light the largest hanukkiah in St. Petersburg $25, For complete contest rules and more information and celebrate with a Hanukkah sing-a-long and a latke on the event, call (727) 265-2770. buffet. A A A A A A Hanukkah Shabbat services and latke dinner will A Hanukkah Celebration will take place at Freedom be held on Friday, Dec. 15 at 6:15 p.m. at Temple Square, 7800 Liberty Lane, Seminole, on Monday, Dec. B’nai Israel, 1685 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater. Feast on 18 at 2 p.m. The event, put on by Chabad of St. Peters- chicken and latkes and other festive treats before a Friday burg, will celebrate Hanukkah with a menorah lighting, Night Live service that includes live music with the Kol refreshments, fellowship and Hanukkah goodies. Rina Choir and FNL band. Bring your hanukkiah. Dinner is $10 per person or $20 per family. For reservations, call WEST PASCO COUNTY the temple office (727) 531-5829. Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey will take A A A part in the Grand Menorah Lighting and Hanukkah Are you a senior Downsizing? Temple B’nai Israel will hold a Family Hanukkah Party, sponsored by Chabad of West Pasco, on Thursday, Experience on Sunday Dec. 17 from 9 a.m. to noon. Dec. 14, from 5:30 – 7 p.m. at Trinity Community Park Have you recently lost a loved one? Family activities include a visit from bricks 4 kidz where (across from the police/fire station), 11530 Trinity Blvd. everyone gets to make a Lego dreidel. Non-members are The event will also include a balloon artist, face painting, Don’t know what to do with all of the stuff in the home? welcome for $18 per family. hair wraps, a show with Dallas the Fire Guy and a meet Let us provide the peace of mind you deserve A A A and greet with state and local officials. Doughnuts and when downsizing yours or a loved ones belongings. “Be the Light: Hanukkah Party & Toy Drive,” latkes will be served. The party is free and everyone is hosted by the Jewish Federation of Pinellas and Pasco welcome. For more information, call (727) 376-3366 or Downsizing Advisory Service Counties, will be held on Sunday, Dec. 17 at 12:30 email [email protected] • Evaluates the contents of the p.m. Activities will include a dairy brunch at Ruth home to determine items of Eckerd Hall in the Margarete Heye Great Room, where HERNANDO COUNTY unusual value attendees will enjoy holiday favorites like latkes, jelly A Hanukkah Street Fair and menorah lighting will doughnuts, entertainment and activities appropriate for be held on Thursday, Dec. 14, at 5 p.m., hosted by • Provides liquidation options children 2-11. Among the activities planned are balloon Chabad Spring Hill. The festivities will be held at the to maximize the return and animals, holiday crafts, PJ Library story time and a Spring Hill Professional Center ​ (in front of Babies and recommend honest estate sale Beyond Pediatrics) featuring the Phoenix Fire & Arts companies photo booth. The program is for all types of families, whether there is two Jewish parents, one Jewish parent, Show, creating your own menorah, arts and crafts, latkes • Liquidates the valuable items at a single parent, LGBTQ parents, grandparents, blended and doughnuts. For more information and to register go auction houses throughout the families, Jews by Choice or “Jewish curious.” Tickets to www.Chabadspringhill.com or call (352) 600-2779 country are $25 per family with an option to sponsor a family A A A We liquidate jewelry and coin collections. We know who pays more. who might need assistance. Space is limited. To RSVP, Temple Beth David’s Hanukkah tradition, Night of We Never Buy From Our Clients! call the Federation office at (727) 530-3223 or email 100 Menorahs, will be held on Sunday, Dec. 17, at 5 [email protected]. Reservations can also be p.m. at 13158 Antelope St., Spring Hill. The celebration made online at www.jewishpinellas.org. will include a complete catered meal, singing, Hanuk- A A A kah gelt, dreidels, presents for the children and fun for Congregation Beth Shalom in Clearwater, 1325 S. the entire family. Admission for temple member adults Belcher Road, Clearwater, will hold a Hanukkah Hap- is $24, $5 for children; non-member adults $30, $8 for pening on Sunday, Dec. 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. children. All children 3 and under eat free. Reserva- There will be a “Create your own Hanukkiah” contest tions and payment are required by Dec. 8. Call (352) Please call Dale Smrekar at 813.244.4160 C Angie'sListLogoBlack.pdf 1 5/2/17 9:57 AM M

Y with prizes, a latke bar sponsored by the Men’s Club, a 686-7034 for more information and to RSVP. Guests are Downsizingadvisoryservice.com CM MY encouraged to bring menorahs and candles. CY sing-a-long, candle lighting, games and performances

CMY

K DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 11

Menorah Manor Celebrates its 32nd Annual Meeting On Wednesday, November 8, 2017, trustees, decorative handrails and wall protection, luxury three meals a day. The emergency generators donors and staff came together for Menorah vinyl tile flooring, a fresh coat of paint on the kicked in, ensuring that Menorah Manor never Manor’s 32nd Annual Meeting. The meeting walls, and beautiful new artwork. lost power. Life was business as usual for resi- highlighted the exciting accomplishments that Another major highlight from the year was dents, who received uninterrupted care during were made during the past year. how Menorah Manor staff pulled together to the hurricane. One of the biggest successes of the year was provide seamless care to residents during Hur- Rob Goldstein, chief executive officer, told the the Operation Upgrade campaign, which made ricane Irma. gathering: “You can never be thanked enough it possible to make major renovations to the 2nd During the storm, Menorah Manor sheltered for your time and commitment. We could not ac- and 3rd floors. The renovations include new liv- over 200 family members and staff, took care of complish all that we do without you. You make a ing rooms, acoustic ceiling tiles and LED lighting, their pets, offered child care services and provided huge difference and are owed much gratitude.”

(L-R) Founders Association Members, Arnie Ross and Diane Ross; Judy Ludin, chief development and communications officer; Barry Kanner, Menorah Manor (L-R) Rob Goldstein, chief executive officer; Susie Berman, Menorah Manor Chair. Foundation chair; Joel Berman, new Menorah Manor Foundation Trustee

(L-R) Ann Soble, Menorah Manor Foundation vice chair; Jim Soble; David Delrahim, Esq., Menorah Manor Treasurer

(L-R) Phyllis Dorian Schoenberg; Marilyn Benjamin; Edie Seligman 2017-2018 Newly Elected Officers & Trustees Menorah Manor TRUSTEES NEW TRUSTEES (for re-election to a three-year term) (for election to a two-year term) Ruth Glickman Saul Rachelson Barry Kanner, Esq. Linda Reimer Eric Ludin, Esq. Howard Miller, Esq. David Wein, M.D. Menorah Manor FOUNDATION OFFICERS NEW TRUSTEES (for election to a two-year term) (for election to a three-year term) Susie Berman, Chair Adam Abelson Ann Soble, Vice Chair Joel Berman Brennan Hervey, Treasurer Phyllis Dorian Schoenberg Adam Abelson, new Menorah Manor Foundation Trustee Susie Schwartz, Secretary TRUSTEES (for re-election to a three-year term) HONORARY TRUSTEE Barbara Baughman, Susie Berman (for re-election to a one-year term) Menorah Manor Guild Gregory A. Fox, Esq. Irwin “Wally” Wallace President; Rob Goldstein Michael Gross Paul Samson www.menorahmanor.org • (727) 345-2775 Susie Schwartz Marion and Bernard L. Samson Nursing Center • Irv Weissman Adult Day Center Jan Sher Toby Weinman Assisted Living Residence Ann Soble

THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY MENORAH MANOR PAGE 12 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 Erin Brokovich to speak at Temple B’nai Israel Erin Brockovich, who became a household name she could use her notoriety to spread positive mes- Happy Hanukkah! following the self-titled movie that starred Julia sages of personal empowerment and to encourage Roberts in her Oscar winning role as the dogged others to stand up and make a difference. legal researcher, will be the guest speaker Sunday, For three seasons, Brockovich hosted the Life- Jan. 7 at Temple B’nai Israel in Clearwater. time series, Final Justice with Erin Brockovich. The The program, “Truth. show celebrated everyday women who triumphed Humanity. Justice: Em- when faced with overwhelming adversity. She also powering Change with Erin has had a New York Times Business best-seller, Brockovich” is sponsored by Take It from Me. Life’s A Struggle, But You Can Win. the Women of Temple B’nai As President of Brockovich Research & Consult- Israel. Brockovich, a con- ing, she is currently involved in numerous environ- sumer advocate, is known to mental projects worldwide. She has requests for her inspire her audiences to stop help in ground water contamination complaints in feeling like spectators and every state of the US, and other interna- start empowering change in tional hot spots. their own backyards. Erin Brokovich This is the second year that the Women of Tem- Some 17 years after the ple B’nai Israel has sponsored a speaker, focusing movie that showcased her determination to get on empowerment. justice and the largest medical lawsuit settlement “This program has become so important because in history for southern California families fighting it gathers 850 members of our community. All re- against a behemoth utility, Brockovich’s “stick-to- ligions, identities, races and creeds come together it-iveness” fuels her continued determination to ex- with the hopes of building a better place to live and pose injustice and lend her voice to those who do love. This evening is a powerful reminder that we not have one. all belong to one another,” said event co-chair Katie “Erin Brockovich stands for who we are as a Burns Blaxberg. community. At a time when people need hope, when Tickets are $40 and available by going to www. From the Abelson Family people want to feel like they can make a difference Eventbrite.com and searching under Erin Brockov- - a real life change agent can inspire and normal- ich. The temple is located at 1685 S. Belcher Road, Adam, Jeanie, David, Amy Leigh and Alan ize being extraordinary, she will shine a light on the Clearwater. For more information, call the temple greatness within us all,” said co-chair Becca Tieder. office at (727) 531-5829. Following the movie, Brockovich realized that

For Jewish singles and couples, Comic rabbi ages 20s, 30s & 40s coming to Beth Shalom in Brandon Rabbi Bob Alper, who bills himself as the only practicing clergyman doing standup com- edy… in- tentional, will bring his shtick to Con- grega- tion Beth Shalom in Brandon on Jan. 6. Alper credits Rabbi Bob Alper 12.24.17 his unique background - he’s an ordained rabbi who served con- gregations for 14 years and holds a doctorate from Princeton Theo- Sunday | 9 PM – 1AM logical Seminary - prepared him well for a 27-year comedy career Franklin Manor with wonderful material pre- 912 North Franklin Street, Tampa sented in a way that’s intelligent, sophisticated, and 100 percent clean. His 90-minute stand-up act is Free drink with Tito's Handmade Vodka (while supplies last) fast-paced, with material that’s definitely sharp yet gentle and unhurtful. Hors d'oeuvres generously donated by Carriage House In addition to being a full-time stand-up comic and conduct- Music by DJ Casper | Cash bar available ing annual High Holyday ser- vices, Alper is the author of three books: Life Doesn’t Get Any Bet- ter Than This, an inspirational Tickets on sale now: collection that the Detroit Free Press called “a volume of spiri- www.JewishTampa.com/VodkaLatke tual gems;” the award-winning full-color cartoon book A Rabbi $36 early bird - until Dec 1 | $45 in advance - until Dec 22 | $54 at the door Confesses; and the recently- pub- Ticket sales limited to 150. This event will sell out! lished Thanks. I Needed That, more stories that touch readers with their warmth, humor, and This event is hosted by the Tampa Jewish Federation and the Jewish Federation of Pinellas & Pasco wisdom. He’s also produced two Counties. Proceeds from this event will benefit Tampa Jewish Family Services, a beneficiary agency best-selling comedy CDs as well that provides emergency food bags, counseling and financial services to the as a DVD. His routines can often Tampa community’s most needy and vulnerable populations. be heard on Sirius/XM satellite radio, sandwiched in between Jerry Seinfeld and Bob Newhart. Alper resides in rural Vermont Event Co-Chairs: Dori Marlin and Thomas Stanton with his wife Sherri, a psycho- therapist. Host Committee: Rebecca Berger, Allison Fox, Ben Gersten, Jamie Gray, Alissa Myers, Jonathan Singer Doors open for the show at 6 Sponsored by: p.m. at the temple, 706 Bryan Rd. Brandon, with the laughter start- ing at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance; $25 at the door and may be purchased online at www.bethshalom-bran- don.org. For more information, call (813) 681-6547. DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 13

There is more ✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵ than one type of menorah: Shown here, the nine- rent-all city branched Hanukkah inc. menorah, or hanukkiah, and Your Bar/Bat Mitzvah a seven-branch and Wedding Headquarters Visit us on both menorah used in the Israeli emblem. New sides of the Bay Visit our Showroom Location! Hyde Park Village St. Petersburg Answering some oft-asked From our family to yours... 1619 W Snow Circle 300 Beach Drive NE Tampa, FL 33606 St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Hanukkah questions Best wishes for a 813.831.2111 727.894.2111 (My Jewish Learning via exchange gifts on Purim, but in Happy Hanukkah! JTA) – Here are the answers to the late 19th century there was some frequently asked questions a shift from Purim to Hanuk- about Hanukkah. Or is it Chanu- kah. Christmas, which falls at (727) 381-3111 kah? the same time of year, became www.rentallcity.com Is there a correct way to spell a national holiday in America at Hanukkah? this time, and the Jewish custom 7171 22nd Ave. N., Hanukkah is a Hebrew word, of gifts on Hanukkah shifted as St. Petersburg Alligator Menorah not an English one, and there is the Christian holiday’s consum- (just west of Tyrone Square Mall) no standard transliteration. My erism grew. Jewish Learning uses “Hanuk- When it comes to how many www.shapirogallery.com kah,” but “Chanukah,” “Cha- gifts to exchange and when, Owned and operated by the Pinsker family since 1960 You can also shop online nukka” and “Hanukka” are also families have different tradi- ✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵✵ common spellings. tions. Why does Hanukkah last Why is the first night of Ha- eight days? nukkah one day before the There are two explanations date listed on my calendar? for the eight-day length. One is While dates on the Grego- that Hanukkah commemorates rian calendar begin at midnight, not just the Maccabees’ victory dates on the Hebrew calendar At Magen David Adom, and rededication of the Temple, begin at sundown — that means but the miracle of the oil: one a holiday starts hours before day’s supply for the Temple the corresponding date on the we’re often saving lives before lamp lasted eight days. Gregorian calendar. This differ- Another explanation is that ence is particularly noticeable the first Hanukkah celebration on Hanukkah, since celebrations our ambulances even arrive. was actually a delayed Suk- tend to take place at night rather kot celebration, and Sukkot than during the day. So while – which, like Passover, is a pil- your calendar may say Hanuk- grimage festival – traditionally kah starts on Dec. 13, it actually lasts eight days. begins this year on the preced- What is Hanukkah about? ing evening, Dec. 12. The last Hanukkah celebrates the candle will be lit this year on Maccabees’ rededication of the Tuesday, Dec. 19. after its de- What’s the proper way to filement by the Syrian Greeks in greet someone on Hanuk- 164 BCE. According to rabbinic kah? tradition, the holiday also com- Happy Hanukkah, “chag memorates the miracle of the oil sameach” (Hebrew for happy noted above. holiday) or “Hanukkah same- Some people see Hanukkah ach” (Hebrew for Happy Ha- as a celebration of religious nukkah). freedom, whereas others see it Do Jews traditionally go to as a triumph of tradition over synagogue on Hanukkah? assimilation. For many people, Jewish law does not require it is simply an opportunity for Jews to observe Hanukkah any- festivity during the darkest time where outside the home. How- of the year, the winter solstice. ever, some special liturgy and Why does Hanukkah fall on readings are added to the daily a different date each year? and Shabbat prayer services that Hanukkah always falls on the take place during Hanukkah. 25th of the Hebrew month of I tried to find the story of the Kislev, which usually is some- Maccabees in the Bible, but time in December. Because the couldn’t. Where is it? Jewish calendar is a combina- The Book of Maccabees, in tion of solar and lunar, the date which the Hanukkah story is on the Gregorian calendar fluc- detailed, was not included in the tuates each year. Hebrew Bible and instead is in Is the candelabra lit on Ha- a category of texts called Apoc- nukkah called a menorah or rypha. For centuries, some Jews a hanukkiah? used to read the story from an Menorah simply means lamp Aramaic-language scroll called and can refer to other candela- The Scroll of Antiochus, which bras such as the seven-branch detailed the Maccabees’ victo- menorah in the Emblem of Is- ries and added numerous leg- rael and used in the Temple in ends. Jerusalem. A hanukkiah is a Why do Jews eat greasy food candelabra specifically for use on Hanukkah? on Hanukkah. However, many It is traditional to eat fried At Magen David Adom, Israel’s national EMS service, help begins the moment the people call it a menorah or Ha- foods, such as latkes and jelly nukkah menorah — you usually doughnuts (called sufganiyot in phone is answered. Because EMTs handle the calls, they can provide lifesaving can tell from context when a Hebrew) as a way of commemo- instructions while dispatching ambulances and first-responders on Medicycles. And person is referring to a Hanuk- rating the miracle of the oil that now, with 15,000 CPR-certified civilian Life Guardians joining our team, help can be kah candelabra and not another lasted eight days. If you’re wor- just seconds away. kind of lamp. ried about the health (or waist- Why do Jews play dreidel on line) implications, consider cel- As we celebrate Chanukah, please give the gift of life, and make your Hanukkah? ebrating the oil by dipping bread There are different explanations into a variety of gourmet olive year-end tax-deductible donation today. for this tradition, but historians oils. believe the dreidel is an adap- Another traditional Hanuk- tation of another top-spinning kah food, cheese, unfortunately AFMDA Southeast Region game that Europeans played at isn’t much better for those con- 3300 PGA Blvd., Suite 970 Christmas time. cerned about fat. The cheese Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 Do Jews traditionally ex- tradition is in honor of Judith, 561.835.0510 change gifts on all eight a woman who helped the Mac- [email protected] www.afmda.org nights of Hanukkah? cabee effort by feeding salty Actually, exchanging gifts on cheese and wine to one of An- Hanukkah is a relatively new tiochus’ generals – and then be- tradition. American Jews used to heading him. PAGE 14 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 Can a Jew from liberal Miami Beach be Florida’s next governor? Philip Levine is betting yes. By AMY SHERMAN “I knew this African-American peal to the factions of voters across JTA news service guy, believe it or not, who won the the state, said Ashley Walker, who MIAMI – One candidate state twice and was elected presi- ran Obama’s 2012 campaign in for governor is a former dent of the United States twice, Florida. “A candidate’s ability to congresswoman and the daughter and an older Jewish guy almost appeal to diverse voters across the of a former governor and U.S. got the Democratic nomination state is more important than their senator. Another candidate is a for president,” he says. (Barack racial or religious background,” Miami Beach mayor who grew up in a blue- Obama carried the state in the she says. Mayor Philip collar African-American family. A 2008 and 2012 elections. In the About 3.3 percent of the popu- Levine speaking third political newcomer is a Har- 2016 Florida Democratic primary, lation in Florida is Jewish. Since at the Miami vard graduate who builds afford- Hillary Clinton beat Bernie Sand- half the Jews in Florida are over 65 Convention able housing. ers in a landslide.) and Jews historically vote in high- Center, in 2015. Florida has been known as a The last Jews elected statewide er numbers than other groups, the place where candidates of diverse were in the 1970s: U.S. Sen. Rich- percent who vote is higher, around backgrounds make a name for ard Stone and Attorney General 5 to 7 percent, says University of Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images themselves. But in statewide races Robert Shevin. Miami demographer Ira Sheskin, Levine had his bar mitzvah at will only continue to rise.” it generally hasn’t included Jews, Stone, now 89 and living in who studies the Jewish commu- Temple Solel in Hollywood and In June, Levine hosted the U.S. at least in recent decades. Maryland, says being Jewish nity. The majority of Jewish voters is now a member of Temple Beth Mayors Conference and showed Former Miami Beach Mayor wasn’t an obstacle to running are Democrats. Sholom, a Reform synagogue in off the city’s efforts to curb flood- Philip Levine, a wealthy business- statewide – the main hurdle was Florida has had only one gover- Miami Beach. He says religion ing by investing $500 million on man with a knack for drawing at- being from Miami Beach. “It can nor with Jewish roots, according won’t play a role in his campaign. pumps and raising streets. Levine, tention to himself and his city’s be done, as I’ve shown, but people to the Jewish Museum of Florida- “I believe that the most impor- who is friendly with the Clintons struggles with climate change, is are normally more comfortable FIU. David Sholtz, who served as tant tenet of my philosophy is to and was a Hillary Clinton surro- hoping to become the exception. with a nearby neighbor running for governor in 1933-37, was born do the right thing,” he says. “I at- gate during the campaign, brought With Florida set to elect a new office than someone from a longer to Jewish parents but considered tribute it to my inner core – my in- former President Bill Clinton to governor in 2018, Levine is the way away,” he said. himself Congregationalist, ac- ner compass, not to religion.” speak at the event. only candidate among the serious The saying in Florida is that the cording to an article in the Jewish In 1990, with $500 capital, Levine has a gift for drawing contenders who is Jewish. more north you go, the more south Daily Bulletin in 1932. Levine launched a business from a attention to himself. He landed While some political observers you go – which means voters in A few Jewish Democrats have studio apartment on Ocean Drive an interview on CNN after he question whether a Jew from liber- the conservative northern part of run statewide in recent years but that provided magazines and TV chartered a flight with 7,000 al Miami Beach can win in a state the Sunshine State may not relate lost. In the 2014 Democratic pri- programming on cruise ships. The pounds of supplies to help San that hasn›t elected a Democratic to candidates from liberal South mary for governor, former state company later grew to amass a Juan following Hurricane Maria governor since 1994, Levine sees Florida. Sen. Nan Rich of Broward County revenue of about $400 million. He and bashed Trump’s response to that as nonsense. Successful candidates must ap- lost to former Gov. Charlie Crist, later sold the company and is now the island. Democrats are court- who then lost to Republican Gov. CEO of Royal Media Partners, ing Puerto Rican voters because in the general election. which provides media to Royal they are a growing population in In 2010, two Jewish Democrats Caribbean Cruises. Florida. competed in the primary for at- After spending $2 million of his Levine says he is a strong sup- torney general: The winner, Dan own money and winning the Mi- porter of Israel – a relationship Gelber, lost in the general election ami Beach mayor’s race in 2013, that began one summer when he to Republican Pam Bondi. Levine grew a national profile by visited there while studying at the Gelber, who is now the Miami becoming an expert on how local London School of Economics. “I Beach mayor, says Democratic government can respond to climate landed in Tel Aviv. I had no place voters look for a candidate who change – and calling out President to stay. I had a telephone number checks certain progressive boxes Donald Trump to do more. Shortly of a distant cousin I never met,” – such as favoring abortion rights before Trump took office, Levine he recalls. “I had to close the deal – and won’t make a decision based wrote an op-ed in Time calling on one call. If I didn’t close the on religion. on the president-elect to protect deal I would be sleeping on Tel Levine “is a successful busi- Florida’s coastline. Aviv Beach. I spent two weeks nessman. That will be more defin- “As I have said many times, the on their couch. That was the be- ing to him than his religion,” Gel- ocean is not Republican or Demo- ginning of my first experience in ber says. crat,” he wrote. “While we bicker Israel. I had the most remarkable two weeks.” He has returned to Israel mul- tiple times – most recently in No- vember after helping convince El Al to start offering a direct flight from Miami to Tel Aviv after a nine-year hiatus. “It began in my conference room and culminated in the inaugural flight Saturday night (Nov. 4),” he said. “I had the New Early Dinner Special owner of El Al sitting to my right, $15 per person 4 pm - 5:30 pm everyday and the chief rabbi of Israel sitting on my left.” includes soup or salad, choice of entree, and dessert. Rabbi Yisrael Meir Lau, a for- House wine, beer, well drinks – all $3.50 mer Ashkenazi chief rabbi of Is- Open: Mon- Thurs 11 am - 10 pm Fri - Sat 11 am - 11 pm Sun 4 pm - 10 pm rael, took part in the inaugural fes- tivities. David Maimon, who was nd 211 2 St. S. • St. Pete • gratzzigrille.com president and CEO of the publicly Call now to reserve: 727.623.9037 traded El Al, announced his resig- nation earlier this month. over the science and solutions, it The Democratic primary field for Florida governor was already crowded with contenders when Levine officially announced his candidacy Nov. 1. He faces for- mer U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham, who represented northern Florida for one term and is the daughter of state political icon Bob Gra- ham; Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum; and Orlando business- man Chris King. While there is no clear frontrunner, one recent poll showed Graham leading the field with 31 percent, while Levine ran third with 6 percent support. But Levine leads the pack in fundraising. He launched his All About Florida PAC in June 2016, more than a year before he of- ficially became a candidate. He has raised about $5.7 million through October – slightly less than half from himself. “I’m very

• CONTINUED on NEXT PAGE DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 15

• CONTINUED from PREVIOUS PAGE comfortable putting in $50 mil- Generous Sincerely JWI leads effort to aid women in homeless shelters lion,” he says. hearts yours, A campaign led by Jewish The Democrat who emerges The women to provide homeless from the August 2018 primary Silverberg women at Pinellas County shelters will face an uphill battle to beat family was with bras and feminine hygiene the Republican. The GOP front- honored Nov. products is catching the attention runner, state Agriculture Com- 16 by the St. Judy Ludin of women throughout the county. missioner Adam Putnam, has Petersburg The effort is being coordinated raised more than $16 million College by the Clearwater Chapter of since 2015 through his commit- Foundation for its longtime support. Earlier this Jewish Women International tee. year, family matriarch Jane Silverberg designated (JWI) in partnership with Support Although Democrats hold $150,000 to name the Community Center at the the Girls, an organization that a slight edge in registra- college’s newest facility, the Bay Pines STEM collects and distributes donated tion over Republicans in Flori- Center. She and her late husband, Donald, have new and good condition used da, U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson is the been ardent supporters of St. Petersburg College and bras and new sealed packages lone Democratic statewide of- created the Silverberg Endowment for Academic of feminine hygiene products to fice holder. But Democrats see Excellence Award in 1982 to help support, enrich homeless women and girls across signs of hope in the swing state and develop programs that benefit SPC, its students North America. where Trump won by a percent- and the general community. Over the years, the Chairperson for the local age point and now has negative Silverberg family has taken great pride in providing campaign is Deena Silver, a approval ratings. funding for a broad range of projects that enhance member of the JWI National Levine’s main liability is the learning experience for students of St. Petersburg Board of Trustees and an Oldsmar Committee members Ellyn Kessler, Amy Richman, Edith his temperament – he has College. resident. Prior to delivery, the bras Becker and Deena Silver at a Support the Girls bra and lashed out at the media, blocked are washed and sorted by size, feminine hygiene products collection during a recent JWI access to critics on social media meeting. then packed for the shelters by and went on a Facebook rant members of the JWI chapter. Each against Airbnb earlier this year. Emmaus, Espiritu Santo Church, the CAS shelter will also receive a portion of the He also pushed for a ban on li- Center in Palm Harbor and The Retreat at feminine hygiene products collected. quor sales after 2 a.m. on Mi- Trinity. Many organizations are helping with ami Beach, which voters over- “The response has been overwhelming,” the project by allowing JWI to place whelmingly rejected. according to Silver, “but the need is so collection bins at their facilities or making Levine says voters are look- great that we now want to extend this drive them available at their meetings ing for a candidate who has a through February with delivery in early Presently bins are at Temple Ahavat track record of getting things March.” Shalom, Temple B’nai Israel, Congregation done. Any other organizations that want to Beth Shalom, the Palm Harbor Library, “It doesn’t matter if the right participate in the drive can contact Silver three YMCA of the Sun Coast branches – candidate for governor is Chi- at [email protected] or Becker Clearwater, the Greater Palm Harbor and nese, African-American or Jew- at [email protected]. “JWI will North Pinellas Family – and at all JWI help them with a flyer to send to their ish,” he says. “It’s not a matter (L-R) Edward Silverberg, Cindy Fletcher, Sanford Goldman, meetings. of religion or ethnicity – it’s a Terri Silverberg Gross, Jay Gross, Tom Silverberg. Seated is membership and supply the collection matter of being the right candi- Jane Silverberg Edith Becker, the collection site chair, bin,” Silver said. date.” reports other organizations that are “Few women who come to homeless P.S. As always, I’m looking forward to hearing about helping with the drive and have filled bins shelters have more than a change of all your family simchas. Photos are welcome, too. Send or will be receiving bins in the coming clothes, let alone undergarments,” Becker Amy Sherman is a freelance information to: Sincerely Yours, P.O. Box 6970, Clear- writer in Fort Lauderdale. weeks include North Pinellas Hadassah, adds. “Our goal is to help them regain water, FL 33758, or e-mail [email protected]. Countryside Country Club, East Lake some of their dignity by providing to their Woodlands Country Club, Women’s needs.”

Jewish Day School, member of Congregation B’nai Israel Obituaries and its Sisterhood. Survivors include her step-children, Dr. Jay Azneer; Reva Pearlstein; Dr. Ira Azneer; grandchildren MARJORIE ANN BOSCO, 72, of St. Petersburg, died and great-grandchildren. (David C. Gross Funeral Homes, Nov. 26. She was born in Newark, NJ, and worked for many St. Petersburg Chapel) years as a teacher. Survivors include her husband, Filip- po; and two sons, Paul and Alex. (David C. Gross Funeral JACOB LAVY, 79, of Tarpon Springs, died Nov. 24. Born Homes, St. Petersburg Chapel) in Romania, he worked as an electronics technician for many years. Survivors include his wife, Sosana. (David C. Gross DR. PATRICIA COTTRILLE (AZNEER), 90, of Seminole, Funeral Homes, Clearwater Chapel) died Nov. 25. Born in Jackson, MI, she was a graduate of Hillsdale College and the College of Osteopathic Medicine SYDELLE ROSENBERG, 87, of Clearwater, died Nov. and Surgery (COMS), Des Moines, IA, with a DO degree. 26. She was born in Queens, NY and was a longtime mem- She was in general practice in Erie, PA, before completing ber of Congregation Beth Shalom in Clearwater. Survivors a residency in pediatrics in 1959 at the Philadelphia College include her husband of 68 years, Martin; her children, Gary of Osteopathic Medicine. She practiced pediatrics until retir- and Marsha Rosenberg, Ellen Rosenberg and Jeff and Dana ing in 1993. After relocating to Des Moines in 1974 to join Rosenberg; 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. the faculty of COMS, she served in numerous positions in- The family suggests memorials to Congregation Beth Sha- 1750 Curlew Road • Palm Harbor • 727.789.2000 cluding associate dean of student affairs, assistant dean of lom. (David C. Gross Funeral Homes, Clearwater Chapel) clinical affairs and interim dean of academic affairs. She was CurlewHills.com • CurlewHillsPetCemetery.com the recipient of numerous awards and authored countless articles in pediatric publications. She served as the president The Jewish Press publishes obituaries of Jewish of the American College of Osteopathic Pediatricians, in ad- community members, both local residents and individ- dition to serving on national advisory boards. In St. Peters- uals whose survivors live in the area, as a free public burg, she served on several committees of the Gulf Coast service. Jewish Family Services, board member of Pinellas County

Serving the Pinellas County Jewish Community since 1968

• Community sponsored non-profit • Hand washing station • Beautifully kept grounds • Rock bins available • Professional, courteous staff • Waterfront family estates • Family estate lots available • Better pricing than competitors • 20 new crepe myrtles provided by Jewish Federation grant 12905 Wild Acres Rd. Largo, FL 33773 (727) 531-0475 • www.chapelhillmemprk.org The Jewish Burial Society of Pinellas County Inc. dba Chapel Hill Memorial Park is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation licensed by the State of Florida PAGE 16 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017

ety of Tampa Bay or directions to the meeting call Bruce Hadburg at (727) 796-7981. Job-Links Philly breaks ground on $7 Organizations Career counseling: On Monday, Dec. 11, the topic for the Monday Morning Links million Holocaust memorial Culture Club (JTA) – Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney Theater outing: A new group, Max- program is “LinkedIn Tips for Professional Hadassah was on hand for the groundbreaking for his Luncheon: The North Pinellas Chapter ine’s Culture Club, sponsored by the Jewish Marketing” and on Dec. 18 the topic is “Cel- city’s $7 million Holocaust memorial plaza. of Hadassah will hold a luncheon and instal- Federation of Pinellas and Pasco Counties, is ebrate Your Gifts & Talents.” The free sessions Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro lation of officers on Monday, Dec. 18 at noon planning an afternoon outing to see The Little are held from 9:30 - 11 a.m. at the Jack Roth also participated in the groundbreaking cer- at the Preserve (formerly Inn on the Pond), at St. Petersburg’s freeFall Theatre, Center for Career Development at TampaBay- emony on Tuesday, Nov. 28. 2010 Greenbriar Blvd., Clearwater. Cost 6099 Central Ave., on Wednesday, Dec. 20 Job-Links, 4100 W. Kennedy Blvd., Suite The plaza, a project of the Philadelphia is $18 for the salmon lunch with advance at 2 p.m. The story of The Little Prince was 206, Tampa. Monday Morning Links is sup- Holocaust Remembrance Foundation, is reservation. Deadline to RSVP is Dec. 11. first published in 1943 as a novella, the most ported by the Vinik Family Foundation. scheduled to be completed next fall. Contact Janice Caine at (727) 726-3735 or famous work of French writer, poet, and pio- There are also Success workshops on select “In light of the toxic national rhetoric, it’s Veronica Harris (727) 939-1759. neering aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Thursdays to aid with job-search skills. On more important than ever that we properly After the outbreak of WWII, Saint-Exupéry Dec. 14, from 9:30 a.m. to noon, the topic will commemorate the victims of the tragedy escaped to North America where he produced be “Customize Your Résumé for the Job You Genealogical Society and never forget this dark period of history,” Lunch and learn: The Jewish Genea- this tender tale of loneliness, friendship, Want” and on Dec. 21 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Kenney said at the groundbreaking. logical Society of Tampa Bay will meet for a love, and loss, in the form of a young prince the topic is “Preparing for Your Interview.” The The plaza will feature six pillars erected in lunch and learn social on Sunday, Dec. 10 at visiting Earth. Tickets are $30 per person workshop is free for TampaBay Job-Links full memory of the 6 million Jewish victims of noon at Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Commu- with the club having a limited number of program participants and $15 for guests. Res- the Holocaust, with each pillar chronicling nity Services, 14041 Icot Blvd., Clearwater. seats reserved. For more information about ervations required for all programs. To RSVP, a Holocaust atrocity and contrasting it with A pot luck luncheon will be served at noon the excursion, contact Maxine Kaufman, call (813) 344-0200, email [email protected], American constitutional protections and followed by a brief business meeting at 1:30 the Federation’s director of arts, culture and or visit www.TBJL.org. values. Original train tracks from the railroad p.m. to elect and install new officers. The education, at mkaufman@jewishpinellas. adjacent to the Treblinka death camp will be program will feature members’ “success org or 727.333.3106. Support groups embedded in the pavement near the “There- stories” and “lessons learned” in researching Alzheimer’s caregiver group: Me- sienstadt tree,” a sapling of the tree nurtured their families. There is no charge to members, norah Manor offers a support group meeting Young adults by children in the Theresienstadt camp. $5 for guests for lunch. Reservations must Whiffleball tourney: On Wednesday, in the Samson Nursing Center at Menorah A bronze Six Million Jewish Martyrs be made by Dec. 2 to ensure there will be Dec. 20 from 7:30-10 p.m., #Gather will host Manor, 255 59th St. N., St. Petersburg, on sculpture has memorialized the Holocaust ample food for those attending. RSVP by call- a whiffleball tournament at the Bryan Glazer the first Thursday of the month from 3:30- in Philadelphia since 1964, and was the first ing Sally Israel at (727) 343-1652. For further Family JCC basketball gym. This is free for 5 p.m. For more information, call Gwen such public monument in North America, information on the Jewish Genealogical Soci- JCC members and $5 for guests. Kaldenberg at (727) 302-3750. according to the foundation. CLASSIFIEDS ADS The Jewish Press accepts only pre-paid classified advertising. The paper accepts no responsibility for Happy Hanukkah services and merchandise advertised, nor screens advertisers. All ads must be submitted in writing. Mail to PO Box 6970, Clearwater, FL 33758; fax (727) 530-3039 or e-mail: [email protected] Rates: from these $10 for 15 words, 10¢ each additional word. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Businesses Vendors Wanted: For the Tampa Bay Jewish Food Festival. Feb. 25, 2018 at Temple B’nai Israel, Clearwater . Non Judaica & Professionals items are welcome. Enid Newmark (727) 712-1333, 251-5524 POSITION AVAILABLE Youth Advisor Position Available: 6- 12 grade, Temple B’nai Israel. Salary commensurate with experience contact [email protected] JEWISH PRESS has OPENINGS for: SUMMER INTERNS College student with journalism major preferred. Duties will include writing assignments and clerical work. Paid position. Part- time. Flexible hours. Must have transportation. Send resume with clips, if available. Karen Dawkins, managing editor PO Box 6970, Clearwater, FL 33758 email: [email protected]. or call, (727) 535-4400 or (813) 871-2332.

POSITION WANTED Caregiver: Eastern European mature woman former police officer seeks Senior or child care position in Northern Pinellas County. Experienced. Light hsk/cook. Call or text (727) 729-2128 SERVICES Ready to buy your condo ACCOUNTANT – SINGER CONSULTING: Robert Singer, Accountant. Personal & “on the beach” or “home” Corporate Tax Preparation. Corporate in Pinellas County? Financial Statements. (813) 404-1004 Call: [email protected] Marcy & Scott Daniels 727-560-8080 or 727-480-3515 Ready for a relationship? Know someone who is? Tampa Bay MatchMakers Coldwell Banker Real Estate ONLY Certified Matchmaker. (813) 907-0410 www.TampaBayMatchMakers.com #1 Sales Team - Clearwater & Clearwater Beach offices

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COMMUNITY SERVICES COULD YOUR CHILD USE ANOTHER ADULT IN THEIR LIFE? Do you have children between the ages 6–17 who would benefit from frequent interaction with another Jewish adult/mentor? Call the Yad B’ Yad Program Coordinator at Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Community Services, Deena Silver, at (727) 450-7278, for more information. DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 17

berg Institute of Southern Jewish How to add some competitive excitement to your Hanukkah party Life in Jackson, MS.. Southern & By RACHEL JARMAN MYERS Latkes. The options are endless the night the votes are tallied, the twinkle lights. Jewish blog celebrates the stories, Southern & Jewish via JTA when it comes to frying fritters. trophies presented, and our group people, and experiences – past With Hanukkah enmeshed in remembers another holiday event Rachel Jarman Myers is the and present – of Jewish life in the Work on your prizes: Trophy the Christmas season, it’s tough to where little Hanukkah can stand museum and special projects coor- American South. It is hosted by the toppers are easy to order online. compete with the epic , out among the punch bowls and dinator for the Goldring/Wolden- Institute of Southern Jewish Life. hot chocolate, caroling, bright- My husband has a great talent for cheery-Santa holiday festivities mounting them and getting of- that dominate the seasonal parties ficial plates printed for each- cat and events. That’s why Hanukkah egory. Or scour a few thrift shops needs a competitive edge … by for some old trophies that you can including an actual competi- tion in our holiday celebra- tions. No, not just the annual dreidel game – it gets pretty boring after awhile, right? I’ve found that adding a trophy to any gathering re- ally ups the level of engage- ment. For my office birthday party one year, I chose to engage my colleagues in a A sizzling contest to find the best latkes pie competition (the winner might be just the thing to spice up your was a classic chocolate pie, Hanukkah celebration. but most creative went to the French fry pie), and each year spray-paint and customize. The my husband and I host a backyard more the better: It’s the holidays, barbecue competition that draws everyone can get a trophy! hundreds of hungry attendees and Set up the stations: Because the about a dozen serious competitors weather is generally quite mild vying for those glorious trophies. down South for Hanukkah, we are For Hanukkah, we’ll be game- able to host this event outdoors. ifying the best of Southern tradi- We set up a few different frying tions: frying food. stations, and as competitors arrive Here’s some tips on how to en- they cook up their recipe in skillets courage a little competition at your and present them hot and fresh to own Hanukkah party this year: whoever is standing close enough to the pan. We’ve found that a Build excitement: The invita- giant cast-iron skillet on a camp tions go out encouraging guests to stove matched with a few electric bring a latke batter of their choos- griddles works best. ing to fry at the party and share with a group of hungry judges. I Celebrate enthusiastic partici- usually include a few informative pation: Competition usually in- links for those who have never had volves friendly banter, hype music the pleasure of crafting the perfect and a blow horn or two. I recom- latke. Then I encourage the cre- mend playing the “Hanukkah Proj- ativity: Sweet Potato Latkes. Car- ect” by Special Passenger Records rot and Beet Latkes. Hushpuppy to get spirits soaring. At the end of PAGE 18 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 Why did this Muslim majority country put a Jewish congressman on a stamp? By RON KAMPEAS the war in 1999, the Holocaust, and abandoned them?” JTA news service heading off what many Jews subsequently Engel’s stamp was presented to WASHINGTON – Rep. Eliot feared would be a geno- returned the favor is him this week when he was in the Engel has become the first U.S. cide of Kosovo›s ethnic how it usually goes. country to help open an office of congressman to be featured on a Albanians at the hands Engel is aware of the Millennium Challenge Corp., a postage stamp in Kosovo. of Serbian strongman the valor of Alba- U.S. government assistance agen- Engel, a New York Democrat, Slobodan Milosevic. nians during World cy. Engel’s office helped secure may be the first Jewish mem- Many of the same War II. But he and a $49 million MCC grant for the ber of Congress on a stamp, pe- figures were part of the others say they were country. riod. Bella Abzug helped inspire push to recognize the haunted by America’s “I’m deeply honored and sur- a 1999 stamp celebrating the Balkan state when it de- reticence to intervene prised that this was being done. women’s rights movement, but the clared independence in on behalf of the Jews I had no idea,” Engel told JTA in late New York Democrat’s face 2008. during the Holocaust an email message. “My work to isn’t on it. Among those out front and driven not to re- promote the U.S.-Kosovo rela- There’s a Jewish story behind in the push to protect Photo courtesy of the Office of Eliot Engel peat history. tionship has been among the most why a Muslim majority nation Kosovo were Engel and Rep. Eliot Engel is featured on a Kosovo postage stamp in what “What do you see meaningful endeavors of my years honored Engel this week with a Rep. Jerry Nadler, a fel- may be a first. in terms of on the in Congress. I’m happy to have two-euro stamp. low New York Demo- locaust memoirist Elie Wiesel. ground, the people helped people’s lives and promote Engel was among a cadre of crat, along with Sen. Ben Cardin, Ask Kosovar Albanians why, and there, do you see despair?” Engel prosperity in the region.” U.S. lawmakers and public fig- D-MD, and two late congress- more often than not they’ll explain asked an American fact-finding It’s not Engel’s first honor in ures who urged the Clinton ad- men, Reps. Tom Lantos and Ben that it’s because the men are Jew- team at a 1998 hearing. “Is there the country: In 2008, the town of ministration to intervene during Gilman, as well as the late Ho- ish. Albanians saved Jews during a feeling that the United States has Pec named a street for him. Magen David Adom to establish Israel’s first national breast milk bank Israel’s first national Breast Milk Bank will The new Breast Milk Bank at MDA will be open early next year. managed by Dr. Sharon Bransburg Zabary, The service will be established by Magen a member of the founding committee of the David Adom in collaboration with the As- “Association for Mother’s Milk Donation,” sociation for Mother’s Milk Donation. established in 2015. The program will allow breastfeeding She emphasized that in cases of premature women to donate excess breast milk to babies and sick babies, who suffer from a premature whose mothers are unable to breast feed or immune system, the requirement for breast unavailable. milk is a matter of life or death. The Breast Milk Bank will be established “The immune system of a premature baby in the MDA Jerusalem station. The opera- isn’t developed and vulnerable. Only breast tion of the facility will be funded mostly by milk provides all vital component – as op- MDA with some financial support form the posed to substitute formulas that are costly Ministry of Health. and could hurt the intestine and cause severe Among the benefits of breast milk are an- infections in premature babies,” she said. “It tibodies that defend babies against diseases should also be noted that one of the risks of and enable the formation of an immune sys- the current situation, is that mothers of pre- tem, a process of utmost importance among mature babies go through extreme lengths premature and sick babies. to get their hands on breast milk, including According to medical statistics, about 30 doing so privately and without necessary percent of women who nurse are potential medical inspection.” donors to the Breast Milk Bank. The average MDA officials said the Breast Milk Bank donation volume ranges from 100-200 cc per is a natural outgrowth of one of its other day, during a time period ranging from 3-9 programs, providing blood services to Is- months post-partum. The demand for breast rael’s 8 million people. MDA also serves milk is expected to be hundreds of liters a as Israel’s national ambulance and disaster month. relief organization. MDA will coordinate the collection and In the U.S., MDA is represented by Friends storage of the breast milk. of Magen David Adom.

RolloverYour IRA for Good By taking a distribution from your IRA this year, Family owned since 1977 you will likely pay more in taxes and may even WhereWhere EverythingEverything isis HomemadeHomemade reach a higher tax bracket. Rolling over part of your IRA’s “required minimum distribution” or 6940 694022nd 22ndAvenue Avenue North North 727.345.7040 “RMD” to the Menorah Manor Foundation can 727.345.7040 help reduce your tax bill while supporting our 2220 22204th Street 4th Street North North mission. 727.822.2000727.822.2000 12670 StarkeyOPEN 7 Road,DAYS A LargoWEEK Double the Benefits! LUNCH & DINNER SERVED An IRA charitable rollover gift can 70½ Between Bryan Dairy and Ulmertonwww.menorahmanor.org OR OLDER 727.518.8888 benefit both you and Menorah Manor. YOU CAN Contact your IRA administrator to get DIRECT UP TO $ started with your gift. While you will 100,000 not receive an income tax deduction, you will not pay taxes on any distributions made to us. Please also inform us of your plans so that we use OPENHappy 7 DAYS Hanukkah A WEEK your gift for the causes that mean the most to you. WeLUNCH look forward & to For more information, please call Judy Ludin, DINNERserving you SERVED in 2017. chief development & community relations officer, at Lunch tab over $30$20 DinnerDinner tabtab overover $50$30 (727) 302-3704 or go to www.menorahmanor.org. Get $4$3 Off GetGet $6$6 OffOff Not valid with other offers. NotNot validvalid withwith otherother offers.offers. Must presentMust present ad. Exp. ad. 7/31/14 Must presentMust present ad. Exp. ad. 7/31/14 www.atheniangardens.com DECEMBER 1 - 14, 2017 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 19 TOWN • CONTINUED from FRONT PAGE by international contemporary artists. The collection has some 185 menorahs, accord- ing to Adriana Ottolenghi, whose husband, Giorgio, has been president of Casale’s Jew- ish community since the 1950s. There is no other museum in the world quite like it. “We receive more every year, and each year at Hanukkah there is a public ceremo- ny, where we light menorahs and welcome the new pieces,” she said. Only 30 to 40 can be displayed at a time in the vaulted underground chambers. The only time the collection was shown in its entirety was at Casale’s centuries-old castle, part of an event connected to the 2015 Mi- Above, the picturesque town of Casale Monferrato, located about lan Expo. 190 miles west of Venice n the Piedmont region of Italy. The syna- The Museum of Lights’ hanukkiyot gogue, right, dates to the 16th century. The building houses a come in an amazing variety of shapes, sizes, Jewish art and history museum as well as the Museum of Lights, a year-round display of nearly 200 menorah. colors and media. Many resemble tradi- Wikimedia Commons tional menorahs: a straight line of candles tic inspiration, promote creativity based in and its symbolism. The Italian artist Stefano or a candelabra with eight branches, with a Jewish tradition and underscore the vitality Della Porta, for example, used ceramics and ninth branch for the “shamash” candle used of Jews in contemporary society. steel to create a menorah that appears to be to kindle them. Some of the menorahs can “The idea was born to show that Jews, made from giant burnt matches. American- be lighted and used on the holiday. though small in number, are determined,” born artist Robert Carroll created his meno- But other menorahs on display are said Carmi, who is the vice rah from olive wood, red Verona granite and more fanciful sculptural president of the Casale brass. It has a sinuous, trunk-like base that works created from the Jewish community, supports eight branches that open out like a likes of metal, ceramic, “and to use interpre- flower, each supporting a candle. plexiglass and wood. tations of the Ha- Carmi and his friends provided the first “Artists were giv- nukkah menorah hanukkiyot for the project — Carmi’s was a en a completely free to demonstrate, silver-plated metal bar with small cups for rein to create a func- symbolically, the the eight candles and the shamash — and Corrado Bononi 2005 tional object or a purely continuity of the then reached out to others for contributions. evocative one,” curator Maria community.” Other artists — Jews and non-Jews, girder that supports the nine candles and is Salvatore Greco, 1998 Luisa Caffarelli wrote in the collec- At Hanukkah, Jews mainly from Italy but also from other coun- decorated with abstract symbols. tion’s catalog. light menorahs for eight days to recall the tries — soon began making their own me- “I tried to bring out a series of abstract, Each menorah is what designer Elio defeat by the Maccabees of Syrian tyrants norahs and presenting them to the growing imaginary signs to create a story that would Carmi, who co-founded the collection in in the second century BCE. According to collection. All of the works are donated, connect, on a general level, with the idea of the mid-1990s with the non-Jewish artist legend, when the Maccabees reclaimed most of them by the artists themselves. thought, experience and memory; without, Antonio Recalcati and other artist friends, the Temple, the eternal light miraculously “It was like a chain of artists,” Carmi however, wanting to enter into the multi- describes as an “homage to the story of Ha- burned for eight days rather than the ex- said. “And well-known artists began to be faceted complexities of the symbology of nukkah” and its message of the triumph of pected one, symbolizing the survival of the attracted.” the Jewish world,” Pomodoro describes in light over darkness. Jewish people. Among those is Arnaldo Pomodoro, one the catalog. They conceived the project as a way to Each menorah in the museum is a per- of Italy’s leading sculptors. His menorah, Ultimately, Carmi said, the Museum of highlight Jewish culture as a source of artis- sonal interpretation of the Festival of Lights presented in 2013, is a horizontal metal Lights is about “Judaism, art and identity.”

THE CARDOZO & MONTEFIORE SOCIETIES OF TAMPA BAY & THEIR CHAIRS, HAL HERSHKOWITZ AND BONNIE WISE CORDIALLY INVITE ALL COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO ATTEND A RECEPTION AND PROGRAM EXAMINING ETHICAL BEHAVIOR THROUGH A JEWISH LENS: CONTENDING WITH ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ISSUES FOR THEIR STEADFAST COMMITMENT TO THE LEGAL AND FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMUNITIES & FEDERATION, THE TAMPA BAY CARDOZO AND MONTEFIORE SOCIETIES LEADERSHIP AWARDS WILL BE PRESENTED TO Sam Linsky Montefiore Society Leadership Award Recipient of Tampa Barry Kanner Cardozo Society Leadership Award Recipient of Pinellas THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2018 • BRYAN GLAZER FAMILY JCC 522 NORTH HOWARD AVENUE, TAMPA, FLORIDA 33606 6:30 PM COCKTAILS • 7:15 PM PROGRAM FREE TO ALL DONORS OF EITHER FEDERATION • $25 NON-DONORS • RSVPS ARE NECESSARY RESERVATIONS CAN BE MADE THROUGH BOTH THE TAMPA JEWISH FEDERATION OR THE FEDERATION OF PINELLAS AND PASCO COUNTIES JEWISHTAMPA.COM/813.739.1687 • JEWISHPINELLAS.ORG/727.530.3223

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