L’ www.JewishFederationLCC.org Vol. 41, No. 6 n February 2019 / 5779 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Events attended in large numbers 6 Our Community By Brian Simon, Federation President his has been a very good sea- Our new Purim party, Queen Esther’s ‹‹ Dog B’Omer. Bring your puppies 11 Jewish Interest son for programming. We filled Masquerade Ball, is Saturday, March to the park to celebrate the 33rd day 19 Israel & the Jewish World the room for our Community 16 at Miromar Outlets. The following of counting the Omer. T ‹ Breakfast in December. The Jewish day, Temple Beth El will host a spe- ‹ The Amazing Technicolor Dream 20 Marketplace Film Festival has grown even larger, cial presentation of the play Refugee, Sukkot, featuring the Shake Your 24 Commentary and our “Read the Book, Skype the thanks to Federation Lulav Dance Con- Author” events Friends of Florida test. DJ Joseph will be 24 From the Bimah have been a real Repertory Theatre. spinning your favorite 24 Community Directory breakthrough. Let These events hits, including “True me take the time are so much bet- Religion,” “Good Vi- 27 Focus on Youth to publicly thank ter than some of brations” and “Purple 28 Organizations Program Director the ideas my fellow Haze.” Debbie Sanford board member Keith All kidding aside, 30 Temple News for her terrific Grossman and I sug- I keep coming back work. She has gested. All of the fol- to these questions:  Brian picked up right lowing were (wisely) What is Federation for Simon from where Leni declined: in this community? Sack left off. Jewish cultural events ‹‹ Dick Clark’s Rockin’ Rosh Ha- Who would miss us if we were gone? are one of our three core services, and shanah, complete with a ball drop Are we doing what we need to be doing we’re very proud of our programming. and countdown to when the third to earn your support? I also want to thank you for attend- star appears in the evening sky. The board has identified three core 3 ing these events. Our staff can create ‹‹ Passover Under the Overpass. services that we provide: Jewish cul- great programs and get the word out, After four glasses of Manisch- tural events, Jewish Family Services Federation’s Senior Lunch but your attendance is what gives the ewitz, you’re sure to see Elijah and Israel advocacy. I hope that you Bunch update events energy. appear near the Daniels Parkway continue to enjoy the cultural program- Let me also take a moment to ask entrance to I-75. ming we’re providing. Family services you for your continued attendance for ‹‹ Tu B’Shvat or Not Tu B’Shvat. are the fastest growing part of our bud- the upcoming events. On Tuesday, Shakespeare in Yiddish. “Whether get. The need is growing, and we’re February 26, bestselling author Alyson ’tis nobler in the mind to spend a serving both Jews and non-Jews. We Richman will appear live to discuss her fortune on slings and arrows (out- are continuing to expand our work on new book, The Secret of Clouds. The rageous!) or just plant a tree.” advocacy for Israel. event will take place at Lakes Regional ‹‹ Iyyar. Medical drama that takes Thank you again for your sup- 5 Library in South Fort Myers. I’m also place between the months of Nisan port, and please feel welcome to let me Federation’s Community excited about two big events in March. and Sivan. know how we’re doing. Breakfast a musical delight

16 Chef Dalia Hemed’s personal culinary trip to Israel

19 Locals visit synagogue in Cuba

Have an item you’d like to share? Need to reach the editor of L’CHAYIM? Send an email to LChayim36@ gmail.com.

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

social service philanthropy culture L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 2 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION Program notes To donate to By Debbie Sanford, Program Director By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach & Food Pantry Coordinator i everyone! Let me start by saying thank you with their DJ for some good old-fashion dance music. anuary’s senior lunch was held to all those who supported our 23rd Annual These ladies rock the house with custom, handmade on a chilly day, and the 70 people the Federation’s Jewish Film Festival. As I write this article, electric violins and cellos, dressed up in costume.J who attended warmed each other H up with friendship, laughter, delicious we have sold just over 2,300 tickets and are sold out Have you ever heard a Queen song, or the “Hora” for of five films. When you read this, we should be just that matter, on an electric violin? No? Great! You havefood from the Federation’s community Annual Campaign, through half the films, and I a perfect reason to attend our Queen Esther Masquer-partner, Jason’s Deli, and a spirited hope you are enjoying them ade Ball. It will be held on Saturday, March 16 from welcome from Rabbi Bruce Diamond all. Our film committee worked 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. in a decked-out suite at the Miromar and members of call 239.481.4449 hard and I thank them. Outlets. In addition to the music and dancing, there the Community I would also like to thank will be cocktails, food, a costume contest with a great Free Synagogue. our generous sponsors. Please prize, a photo booth, and just a really great reason to After lunch, Rab- or visit take a look at the back page of get into a costume (optional) and come have some bi Diamond led this newspaper to see the list of fun! the group in his sponsors. And please frequent The next day, the Federation is proud to partner version of Jeop- ardy called “Jew- JewishFederationLCC.org  Debbie their establishments if you can, with “Friends of the Florida Rep” to bring you a per- Sanford and support their businesses. formance of Refugee, a play based on the New York pardy,” and prizes On to our next lineup of great programming and Times bestselling novel by Alan Gratz. Directed by were awarded for what you can look forward to this month and next: Kody C. Jones of the Florida Rep, this interfaith per-all correct answers. There were 11 On Tuesday, February 26, the Jewish Federation, formance will be held at Temple Beth El in Fort My-newcomers at the lunch, which is a re- OUR MISSION in conjunction with Lakes Regional Library, wel- ers on Sunday, March 17 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are only cord! Due to our dedicated and amaz- To strengthen and enrich the Jewish comes bestselling author Alyson Richman to our first $5 and are available online at www.jewishfederationing volunteers, we were able to arrange Community by providing and supporting Traveling Authors Event of 2019. Alyson will discuss lcc.org/travelingauthors. for the newbies to have “lunch bud- philanthropic, educational and social her new book, The Secret of Clouds. We invite every- If you are a Lion of Judah, you’re invited to a dies” so they had people there to greet service programs locally, in Israel and one to the library at 2:00 p.m. to listen to and meet special event on Tuesday, March 5. Keep an eye outthem and sit with them. throughout the world. Alyson. Books do not go on sale until February 19, for your invitation to an entertaining and tasty event! The free monthly senior luncheon but don’t worry. We will have plenty available for Rounding out the fun-filled month of Marchhas is blossomed into a regular event for OUR VISION sale at the library (at a discounted rate), and Alyson another Traveling Author Event. The Federation andall Jewish seniors to get together for will be happy to autograph them at the conclusion the Alliance for the Arts welcomes B.A. Shapiro tofood, friendship and frolic, whether A Jewish Community that is based on of the event. The event is free and open to the entire Fort Myers. Her book, The Collector’s Apprentice, isthey live on their own, in a senior liv- Jewish values such as Tzedakah community. I encourage you to attend, as Alyson is a an exhilarating tale of shifting identities, desire anding facility, are new in town or have (benevolence), Tikkun Olam (repairing great speaker. Registration is required. intrigue set between 1920s Paris and Philadelphia.lived here for years. There is such gen- the world) and K’lal Yisrael (taking erosity of spirit from the moment you responsibility for one another). Now you may have heard a rumor. The Federa- Tickets are just $10 and are available through the Al- tion is hosting an ADULTS ONLY Purim Party! liance’s website at www.artinlee.org/authorshapiro. The rumor is true! And you don’t want to miss it. Refreshments will be served and books will be avail- I promise you it will be amazing. If you have never able (at a discounted rate) for purchase and auto- heard of the group, Fretless Rock, please check them graphs. out. That is the entertainment for the evening, along I look forward to seeing you at our next event! L’ Jewish Family Services update Jewish news published monthly by By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach & Food Pantry Coordinator Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, FL 33908 ears ago, I remember talking to a close friend for their families. (239) 481-4449 • Fax: (239) 481-0139 about all of the transitions I was facing in the Most of the food from the High Holiday food Online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org major categories of life: work, housing, love, drives is gone, so your regular contributions of pro-  Y February 2019 • Volume 41, Number 6 location. At one point my friend said, “Ah, it sounds tein, fruit and toiletries are appreciated. I’d like to  like you are in between trapezes.” I love that phrase. thank food pantry volunteers Judith Yevick, Karen President: Brian Simon I was fortunate that while I was in the middle of these Whitman, Suzanne Orkin, Laurie McConnville and Board: Paul Bartrop • Jack Esformes • Karen Fine Carolyn Gora • Jerry Greenfield • Keith Grossman transitions, I was never without food, warm clothes, Donna Cotler for their ongoing support. Our food Andi Horowitz • Linda Idelson • Marsha Kistler a place to live, and the support of friends and family. pantry is small, yet requires ongoing attention and Sara Krivisky • Michele Laboda • Rozzi Osterman Barbara Siegel • Sylvia Simko • Sherri Zucker Jewish Family Services continues to receive maintenance. If you would like to volunteer to help Executive Director: Alan Isaacs weekly requests for assistance from clients who are out on a regular or as-needed basis, please contact me Program Director: Debbie Sanford also in between trapezes due to a variety of circum- at [email protected] or 239.481.4449 x2. Executive Assistant: Lori Ramos Jewish Family Services: Jodi Cohen stances such as illness, disability and unemployment, We encourage everyone to purchase raffle tick-  and who are reaching out to the Federation for sup- ets for the Boston Red Sox vs. Yankees game, as the Editor/Designer: Ted Epstein (239) 249-0699 Advertising: Jim Lewin (239) 634-6923 port. In December we were able to help clients with proceeds are going to the Jewish Federation’s Indi-  financial assistance toward phone bills, security de- gent Fund so the Federation can continue to provide L’CHAYIM invites correspondence on subjects of interest to posits, utility and water bills. The food pantry dis- resources for the community and fulfill its vision of Jewish people. Partisan political opinions will not be published, tributed food to 92 people, serving 22 households the Jewish values of Tzedakah (benevolence), Tikkun but opinions on subjects affecting the Jewish community are welcome. All inquiries regarding copy for L’CHAYIM should be – the largest number of clients in Federation history Olam (repairing the world) and K’lal Yisrael (taking directed to the editor. All news material must be very clearly for a one-month period. We had nine clients on the responsibility for one another). printed or typed (not in all-capital letters) and double-spaced. Wednesday before Christmas who came to get food Electronic submissions encouraged. The editor reserves the right to edit for space and content. UPCOMING FEDERATION Photographs should be clear, black-and-white or color prints. If you wish a photograph returned, include a stamped, self-addressed envelope of appropriate size. The Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties disclaims responsibility or endorsement of the views expressed by the writers and claims by advertisers. EVENTS 2019 MARCH ISSUE

EDITORIAL DEADLINE:

Tuesday, February 5

FEB. 26 Author Event - Alyson Richman, Lakes Library Grow your business MAR. 5 Lion of Judah - Program and Speaker, Seltzertopia MAR. 13 Read the Book; Skype the Author - Matt Goldman Gone to Dust Free and open to with L’CHAYIM. the community. A light dairy dinner will be served. Reach 5,000 local MAR. 16 Queen Esther (Adults Only) Masquerade Ball - Miromar Outlets Jewish residents MAR. 17 REFUGEE Play - Temple Beth El through this paper. MAR. 28 Author Event - B.A. Shapiro, The Collector’s Apprentice The Alliance for the Arts

For more information APR. 28 Yom HaShoah Event

or to place an ad, call Jim MAY 8 Annual Meeting at 239.634.6923 or send an email to For a continuously updated calendar of events, [email protected]. visit www.JewishFederationLCC.org. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 OUR FEDERATION Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 3 Program notes Senior Lunch Bunch update Our Federation’s By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach & Food Pantry Coordinator anuary’s senior lunch was held walk in the door, and there is always a 2018 accomplishments on a chilly day, and the 70 people place at the table for you. issue for a comprehensive Jwho attended warmed each other A heartfelt thank you to the 37 – FROM THE list of “How the Jewish up with friendship, laughter, delicious count ’em 37 –people who volunteered EXECUTIVE Federation … Serves.” food from the Federation’s community for the lunch this month. It takes a vol- Any assessment of partner, Jason’s Deli, and a spirited unteer village to help make the lunch DIRECTOR what the Federation does welcome from Rabbi Bruce Diamond go smoothly. If you’re interested in  Alan Isaacs is impossible without con- and members of volunteering for the lunch by making sidering the involvement the Community calls, driving seniors who need rides, here are certain times of the of the Jewish community at large. Free Synagogue. setting up at the lunch, bringing a des- year that call to mind the spe- While success must be measured in After lunch, Rab- sert, helping with cleanup, or spend- Tcial nature of what our Federa- terms of participation from the com- bi Diamond led ing time with seniors during the lunch, tion and our supporters do. While our munity – and participation numbers are the group in his contact me at [email protected] programming, social services and Is- up – the quality and relevance of the version of Jeop- or 239.481.4449 x2. rael advocacy extend throughout the programs and services must be mea- ardy called “Jew- year, the calendar denotes particular sured too. And the measure of these is pardy,” and prizes occasions for reflection. The end of our in participation and, as indicated, the  Jodi Cohen were awarded for budget and campaign year is one such numbers are up. all correct answers. There were 11 occasion. These accomplishments are a re- newcomers at the lunch, which is a re- Over the course of 2018, with a sult of the dedicated work of volun- cord! Due to our dedicated and amaz- budget barely larger than 2017 and op- teers and staff in all areas of -our op ing volunteers, we were able to arrange erating in the black as always, we were eration – beginning with our Board of for the newbies to have “lunch bud- able to provide more programming and Directors, the generous contributions dies” so they had people there to greet services to our community than ever of our supporters, and the efficient use them and sit with them. before. Attendance increased substan- of all of these resources. It is with this The free monthly senior luncheon tially at both established and new pro- in mind that I thank our financial sup- has blossomed into a regular event for grams and services – all of which you porters, our volunteers and our staff. all Jewish seniors to get together for have read about in L’CHAYIM and in Our Federation is here for you in food, friendship and frolic, whether our weekly email newsletter and, per- all our programs and services. Join us. they live on their own, in a senior liv- haps, participated in or utilized. As a Support us. Promote us. Sustain us. ing facility, are new in town or have Photos courtesy Helene Glocer reminder, please refer to page 4 in this lived here for years. There is such gen- erosity of spirit from the moment you

Jewish Family Services update Honest, caring and knowledgable advice about assisted living options… at no cost to you! Personal and professional advice for you or a loved one NEXT SENIOR LUNCH BUNCH: when you need it the most

Thursday, February 7 at noon Bruce B. Rosenblatt, Owner Temple Beth Shalom, 702 SE 24th Ave., Cape Coral Senior Housing Expert RSVP by Monday, February 4 to 239.595.0207 Jodi Cohen at 239.481.4449 x2 or [email protected] www.SeniorHousingSolutions.net

UPCOMING FEDERATION EVENTS 2019

FEB. 26 Author Event - Alyson Richman, Lakes Library MAR. 5 Lion of Judah - Program and Speaker, Seltzertopia

MAR. 13 Read the Book; Skype the Author - Matt Goldman Gone to Dust Free and open to the community. A light dairy dinner will be served. MAR. 16 Queen Esther (Adults Only) Masquerade Ball - Miromar Outlets

MAR. 17 REFUGEE Play - Temple Beth El

MAR. 28 Author Event - B.A. Shapiro, The Collector’s Apprentice The Alliance for the Arts

APR. 28 Yom HaShoah Event

MAY 8 Annual Meeting

L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 4 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION

The Jewish Federation Annual Campaign provides the resources to strengthen and enrich our Jewish community locally, in Israel and around the world.

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

TRIBUTES How the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties Serves In memory of George Grossman from Mae Folb Local Jewish Education and Culture  Communitywide Jewish Education and Culture Programs for Each month, L’CHAYIM will list your Tributes. all ages including the Jewish Film Festival, Jewish Author Please send them to Lori Ramos Events, Israel Celebration, Jewish genealogy, Israeli folk dancing, social groups, etc. at the Federation at [email protected].  L’CHAYIM published monthly to keep the Jewish community informed about local, national and international Jewish issues. The Jewish Federation Board and Staff want to extend a  Community Relations activities include monitoring anti Semitism and issues of separation of church and state in the community.  Israel Advocacy and Initiatives to strengthen local Jewish community ties with Israel. Holocaust Education through the Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida to middle and high school students in the community.

Overseas  Funding to the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) for full spectrum social services to Israel and Jewish communities in 60+ countries around the world.  Partnership 2Gether relationship with the HaderaEiron Region in Israel.

Local Seniors Services  Holiday baskets and teen visits to seniors and senior facilities for Rosh Hashanah, Hanukah and Passover.  Seniors & Volunteers Lunch Program.  Emerging and pressing needs related to senior housing, health and socialization.

Local Case Management Services  Nonsectarian, individual and family outreach, information and referral services.  Individual life coaching and support services. Read the current and recent issues of L’CHAYIM Local Emergency Services online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org.  Food Pantry.  Emergency financial assistance.  Education and aid associated with natural disasters.

The Jewish Federation thanks our Local Community Services  Support families of children with special needs. GENEROUS DONORS  SAT preparatory classes for high school students.  Volunteerism.  Organizational Collaboration.  Assessment and Planning.

INDIGENT FUND Jewish Community Foundation  An endowment that ensures the longterm financial base of Shalom Dancers Carolyn & Robert Siegel charitable, social and educational programs in our community. Marty & Judy Freling Barry & Barbara Epstein  Needsbased college scholarships and study scholarships in Paul & Sylvia Simko Sheila & Joe Cramer Israel. Mae Folb Pelican Preserve  Projects and programs aimed at Jewish community enrichment.

FOOD PANTRY Temple Beth El Leslie Loscher Temple Judea Debi & Jerry Greenfield Shalom Life Center Victor Gold Mellow Mah Jongg Ferrel Helfor & Nancy Levin Sherri Zucker Jeffrey Kleiman The Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Grant is available Brian & Mindi Simon Amy & Steve Phillips Pelican Preserve through the Community Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties.

The grant may be used for travel to Israel to participate in programs that are volunteer or educational in nature.

OUR HOPE is that these THIS GRANT is for Jewish programs will enhance residents of either county Jewish knowledge and who are 25 years old or identity in preparation for younger and can demon- participation in American strate a financial need. Jewish life. Academic standing and community involvement may also be considered.

Together we CAN Make a Difference! For more information or an application, visit our website at JewishFederationLCC.org. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 OUR FEDERATION Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 5 The Jewish Federation Annual Campaign provides the resources to strengthen Community Breakfast was a musical delight and enrich our Jewish community locally, in Israel and around the world. By Debbie Sanford, Program Director n Sunday, December 9, more flowing. The atmosphere was conta- ferent each year. If you have than 150 people filled the ball- gious, and people were smiling, clap- any ideas or suggestions for Oroom at The Landings for the ping and having a great time. next year’s theme, please annual Jewish Federation Community During the Breakfast, Executive email me at debbiesanford Breakfast. With a music theme for the Director Alan Isaacs presented a spe- @jfedlcc.org. event, the very talented Anton Duran cial framed certificate to Leni Sack, Thank you to those who played his keyboard and sang some of my predecessor, to acknowledge the attended and thank you to YOU MAKE IT HAPPEN the greatest hits from Jewish compos- many years of dedicated service to our our wonderful volunteers ers and artists we all love. Among oth- Federation and the Jewish community and Federation staff who This year please consider making an additional campaign contribution in honor or memory of a loved one. ers, we sampled some Billy Joel, Paul in general. We all wish Leni good luck helped design, assemble Because kindness is contagious, we would like to highlight your generosity in L’CHAYIM and notify personally those whom you honor. Simon and Neil Diamond – definitely a in her future endeavors, plenty of fun and set out the musical in- You may choose how your generosity is noted and how we share your mitzvah with the community. favorite in the crowd with people hit- vacations, and enjoying spending time strument menorahs. ting the dance floor. with her family while retired. For those who missed The food was delicious with vari- I think it is nice to mix it up a bit it, we hope to see you next ous brunch items, and the latkes were and try to bring a little something dif- time!

Alan Isaacs presents award to Leni Sack for her devoted service to the Federation

Photos courtesy Mike Shapiro

(Standing:) Lani Laboda, Michele Laboda, Eric Dochinger, (seated:) Sheila Laboda, Amy Marz Carolyn Gora and Sherri Zucker Explore More. Active Senior Lifestyle

• 5-Star Dining • Fitness Center and Daily Classes • Salon and Spa • Woodworking Shop • Creative Arts Studio • Utilities and Housekeeping • Indoor Heated Pool Included

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Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care Assisted Living | Skilled Nursing | Rehabilitative Care | Home Health Services Cypress Cove at HealthPark | 10200 Cypress Cove Dr., Fort Myers | 239- 317- 8511 L’CHAYIM is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, committed advertisers and the Jewish Federation. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 6 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR COMMUNITY Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center update By Susan Suarez, President & CEO reetings from the Holocaust by a short musical program featuring four continents. Christian’s work and ours is more Museum & Janet G. and Harvey the restored violin on special loan to Our new exhibit, Marching in important than ever. The disturbing GD. Cohen Education Center. It the Museum from the Violins of Hope America: Fascists, Nazis and White trend of an increase in hate crimes is has been a busy New Year so far with Project. Nationalists Past and Present, is an not just limited to the U.S., but is being school visits, public programs and spe- This month, the Museum is again overview of the hate groups which de- seen around the world. The most effec- cial events at the Museum. The Museum a proud sponsor of Holocaust-themed veloped in the U.S. in the 20th century tive way to counter this behavior is on was also the spon- author presentations at a Greater Naples and continue to exist in our country sor of the January Jewish Book Festival event. The pre- today. While the names and leaders monthly breakfast sentations will take place on Monday, of these hate groups may change over meeting of the February 18 from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. at time, they continue to attract disaffected Chamber of Com- the Naples Conference Center, 1455 people who feel they are under attack by merce, “Wake Pine Ridge Road. Author Ariel Burger groups they deem a threat to their way of Up Naples.” The will discuss his book Witness, which life. The exhibit also includes examples Museum hosts chronicles his conversations with Elie of how the plans of several hate groups

this event each Wiesel, which began when Burger were thwarted by concerned citizens Christian Picciolini (photo credit Dennis Sevilla,  Susan January as part was 17. Author Rebecca Erbelding who saw the threats the hate groups Hachette Book Group) Suarez of recognition of will present her book, Rescue Board. posed to their communities. a person-to-person level with educa- International Holocaust Remembrance It highlights the relatively unknown On Monday evening, March 4, we tion programs like the ones we offer. Day. The Museum also presented a spe- WWII War Refugee Board, which was will hold our annual fundraiser, Triumph Locally, we are working with students cial afternoon program on International established in January 1944 to try and 2019, at Grey Oaks Country Club in and teachers in six counties to inform Holocaust Remembrance Day featur- save the remaining Jews in Europe. It Naples. Christian Picciolini, the founder young people of the importance of re- ing Docent Ellaine Rosen’s “Witness eventually did save tens of thousands of Life after Hate and the Goldmill spectful interactions, and the growing to Goodness” presentation, followed through undercover operations across Group LLC, will be our featured speak- dangers our families and communities er. A former violent extremist who was a face without it. Presented by: The Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties & participant for many years in the white Invitations to Triumph 2019 will Federation Friends of the Florida Repertory Theatre power movement, Christian has become be sent out shortly. Event sponsorships, an award-winning public speaker, au- Patron opportunities and program ad- thor and peace advocate. Christian had vertising are available. For tickets and joined a hate group as a teenager and more information, contact the Museum was a member of the “white power” at 239.263.9200 or Donor@Holocaust punk band, White American Youth. MuseumSWFL.org. Their songs promoted hate for, and vio- Work on our new home continues, lence against, those groups targeted by and we are still anticipating a Summer the white power movement. As an adult, 2019 move. We will keep you updated. an encounter with a former teacher pro- For information on the many ways foundly challenged his extremist beliefs you can support the Museum’s mission and prompted him to turn away from to teach the lessons of the Holocaust to A play based on the New York Times bestseller by Alan Gratz. hate. Christian is proof there is “life after inspire action against bigotry, hatred Sunday, March 17, 2019 hate,” and he is now dedicating his life and violence, please contact me at To purchase tickets visit: to providing a way out to those members [email protected] 2:00 P.M. Tickets www.jewishfederationlcc.org of extremist groups who want to change or 239.263.9200. Hope to see you at the their lives and re-enter society. Museum soon! Temple Beth El $5.00 /travelingauthors For more info call: 16225 Winkler Rd., Fort Myers 239.481.4449 ext.4 Changing you address? Keep L’CHAYIM coming to your home. Email [email protected].

Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen & Education Center L’CHAYIM delivers! Introduce your business to a POWERFUL Presents demographic and reach 5,000 readers each month for pennies per reader! TRIUMPH 2019 For ad rates and deadlines, Monday Evening, March 4, 2019 contact Jim Lewin at 239.634.6923 at Grey Oaks Country Club in Naples or [email protected].

There Is Life This month’s After Hate advertisers This publication is brought to you each month thanks to the support of our advertisers. Please be sure to use their products and services, and mention that you found them in L’CHAYIM. Guest Speaker – Christian Picciolini Advanced Physical Therapy.....22 Higginson Tax & Accounting....20 Alliance Financial Group...... 20 Holocaust Museum...... 6 Christian Picciolini is an award-winning public speaker, author, peace Hal Arkin, Realtor®...... 20 Lee Lighting...... 20 advocate, and a former violent extremist. 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Fort Myers Memorial Gardens..17 Taschner Periodontics...... 23 Susan Glasser, Realtor®...... 20 Temple Beth El...... 12,17 Golden Care...... 11 Temple Beth El Gift Gallery....18 Speaker Sponsor: Gordon’s Pool & Spa Service....20 The Bagel Factory...... 20 Green Schoenfeld & Kyle, LLP..20 The Pampered Soul...... 20 4760 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 7, Naples, FL 34103 Gulf Coast Orthodontics...... 19 The Terraces at Bonita Springs.14 Tel: 239-263-9200 • HolocaustMuseumSWFL.org Dr. David Heligman...... 21 Bob Vinikoor, Realtor®...... 20 Henderson Franklin...... 20 Paul Weinstein, CFP®...... 20 L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 OUR COMMUNITY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 7 Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center updateArtFest Fort Myers – Let art elevate your everyday ArtFest Fort Myers is the place to be on February 2 and 3 with an Opening Night Christian’s work and ours is morefeaturing 65 festival artists on Friday night, February 1. important than ever. The disturbing his exceptional fine art festi- work together to create beautiful art – timeless designs in precious materi- the choice of self-expression and self- trend of an increase in hate crimes is “ val is a true community-based and will be exhibiting at ArtFest Fort als that will withstand the test of time, direction became too inviting to ignore not just limited to the U.S., but is being event that showcases over Myers the first weekend in February: and Pottery for Living was born. seen around the world. The most effec- T 200 fabulous professional artists. It’s Patti and Bob Stern For more information, please visit tive way to counter this behavior is on a perfect blend of fine art, family ac- Bringing their unique touch of whimsy ArtFestFortMyers.com - Like Us on tivities and unique art installations,” to the often crazy world we live in, the Facebook - Connect with us on Linked- explains Judy Weiner, Board Chairman Sterns find inspiration in history and in - Tag us #artfestfm of ArtFest Fort Myers. “ArtFest Fort architectural artifacts. Their works of- Fast Festival Facts: Myers artists represent the best of the ten mimic the human form while giv- XX WHAT: A juried fine arts festival best, and you won’t see more exciting ing a second life to vintage windows, featuring over 200 national art- and diverse artwork anywhere else in reclaimed wood and hardware. Their ists, high school art competition, Southwest Florida!” high school sidewalk chalk com- All new in 2019, ArtFest Fort My- petition, interactive arts, children’s Christian Picciolini (photo credit Dennis Sevilla, ers is harnessing the power of art to crafts, fine food and entertainment. Hachette Book Group) increase awareness and challenge be- XX WHEN: ArtFest Fort Myers, Feb- a person-to-person level with educa- havior inspiring the recycle, re-use, ruary 1, 2 & 3; Friday Opening tion programs like the ones we offer. upcycling movement and conserving Night, 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., Saturday Locally, we are working with students our natural resources. Be sure to visit & Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and teachers in six counties to inform We Are Overflowing, a professional XX WHERE: Downtown Fort My- young people of the importance of re- sculpture created from re-purposed, ers on Edwards Drive in the River spectful interactions, and the growing discarded and cast-off materials recy- both physically and stylistically,” af- District dangers our families and communities cling. It will spark your imagination firms the artist. XX COST: Free admission face without it. and, perhaps, begin a conversation Donna Gilbert and Gregory Johnson XX PARKING: Adjacent parking lots, Invitations to Triumph 2019 will about rethinking waste. Donna Gilbert and Greg Johnson had street parking and City Garages be sent out shortly. Event sponsorships, Combine health & fitness with art successful careers in corporate Ameri- are open. Look for our directional Patron opportunities and program ad- & culture on Sunday morning, with the ca, but when Greg began making pots signs and flags. vertising are available. For tickets and Publix Run to the Arts, a fun 5K race as a way to combat the tensions of more information, contact the Museum that will begin and end in the heart of at 239.263.9200 or Donor@Holocaust ArtFest Fort Myers. Join us as we run/ MuseumSWFL.org. walk through scenic downtown, over Work on our new home continues, the Edison Bridge and back. Enjoy an and we are still anticipating a Summer artful experience, vie for great prizes appreciation of the craftsmanship of an 2019 move. We will keep you updated. and get healthy with friends and family earlier time is coupled with a one-of- For information on the many ways over festival weekend. For race details, a-kind vision guaranteed to make you you can support the Museum’s mission visit RunToTheArts.com. smile! to teach the lessons of the Holocaust to Your $125 per person membership Joan Michlin and Skip Ennis inspire action against bigotry, hatred in the VIP Experience means reserved Joan Michlin is a prominent New York and violence, please contact me at weekend parking, admission to the Fri- artist and goldsmith who has been cre- [email protected] day Night Opening VIP Tent with deli- ating exciting and trendsetting gold his working world, they realized that or 239.263.9200. Hope to see you at the cious food and drinks, plus unlimited jewelry for 20 years. Her one-of-a-kind change was possible. Donna, an inte- Museum soon! access to the VIP Experience Tent with wearable sculptures often perch upon rior designer, used her eye to create the breakfast treats, a delightful lunch, and an exquisite art box – adding another design elements, glazes and textures Changing you address? Keep beverages all weekend long. design/display element to her pieces. on their ceramics. It took several years Meet a few of the couples who “My goal is to create future heirlooms of “moonlighting” in the studio before L’CHAYIM coming to your home. Email [email protected]. A REFORM JEWISH CONGREGATION SERVING SANIBEL, CAPTIVA, FORT MYERS & SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES L’CHAYIM delivers! Introduce your business to a POWERFUL demographic and reach 5,000 readers each month for pennies per reader! For ad rates and deadlines, Bat Yam contact Jim Lewin at 239.634.6923 Temple of the Islands or [email protected]. invites you to THREE CANTORS and a PASTOR A SANIBEL CELEBRATION CONCERT Songs, duets and ensembles from the Light Classics, Broadway, Pop, Leonard Bernstein and so much more Followed by a Meet the Soloists Reception with food and beverage Sunday, February 24 at 4:00pm 2050 Periwinkle Way

Cantor Murray Simon Cantor Randy Herman Cantor Elizabeth Shammash Rev. Dr. John Danner Bat Yam Bet Torah Tiferet Bet Israel Pastor, Sanibel Sanibel, Florida Mt. Kisco, New York Blue Bell, Pennsylvania Congregational UCC, Sanibel PIANO ACCOMPANIMENT BY TOBY SIMON • PRINCIPAL SPONSOR: THE LEO ROSNER FOUNDATION IN HONOR OF JUNE ROSNER Program is open to the public at the campus shared by Bat Yam – Temple of the Islands and Sanibel Congregational UCC – 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT BATYAM.ORG L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 8 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR COMMUNITY

“Thank you” to the following supporters of L’CHAYIM for their contributions New JLI course: Crime and Consequence to help underwrite the cost of bringing news of the local, national and international Jewish community to your mailbox every month! MEDIA MOGULS: George & Joyce Rosinger Judy & Andrew Wolff James & Betty Rubenstein Alan & Edina Lessack Fred & Linda Tepper Judy & Irving Pennock Naomi Bloom & Ron Wallace Stephine Levine The Richters Paulette & William Liverant Judy Stephens Jodi Grosflam & David Gutstein Alexander & Ayala Farkash Edwin L. Lyons, M.D. Carolyn Gora Jeannie Moskin Linda Fentner Elizabeth Shevach Avner Yonai Marilyn Spector Nannette Palumbo Avi & Hannah Harpaz Kent & Freda Confeld Rita & Glen Gardberg Robert & Dottie Ruberto Linda Moon David Heligman Rabbi Bruce Diamond Nancy Armocida Larry & Donna Castillo Don & Sandy Komito Shelby & Beth Goldman David & Esta Berger Suzi & Howard Imanuel Muriel S. Freedman Howard & Jane Gold PUBLISHERS: Richard & Susan Talbott Hy Tuchman David & Dalia Hemed Randi Dunkle Norn & Rona Rosenthal Norman G. Newman Mary Hendzel Alexander Menkes Marty & Judi Freling Esther & Steve Wiener Dan & Ellen Fox Marjorie Marlin Rochelle Goldenberg Lory & Lynn Kirby Bette & Bob Batson Joyce Bell Brenda & Howard Sheridan Robert & Leslie Loscher Max & Anita Weisglass Brenda & Jacob Buck Diane Langan Janice & Michael Danzig Janice Nord Judith Yevick Paul Weinstein Mr. & Mrs. Robert Flipse Lydia Gattanell Al & Eileen Schwartz Jeff & Jennifer Avon Ron & Lynn Klein Burt Kurland Gary & Marlena Maisel Ira & Ailene Stein Barry & Rona Axelrod Julie Phillips Marcia & Joseph Goldberg Beverly Meisel Byron & Shirley Frank Lubov Ruvinskaya Leonard & Renee Minsky Clive & Sunny Lubner Martin & Betteann Sherman EDITORS: Harvey & Bobbi Goldberg Harvey & Carol Brand Steve & Vicki Zellner Sheila & Gerald Laboda Paula & Ira Zlatkin Marty Burnette Leonard & Susan Zimmerman Harvey & Jodi Cohen Diane Feik Celia & Daniel Dosoretz Robin & Jerry Razowsky Sandi Sauls Luda Goldenberg Nathan Blyveis Martin Wolt Dina Shein Robin Kessler Candace Patton Jacob Rubin Diane Jensen Adrienna Sires SUBSCRIBERS: Rochelle Grosky Howard & Verna Siegel Susan Glasser Jeannett Keyser Toby Moss Marie & Ronny Taschner Doris Loigman Phyllis & Bernard Aronson Lindy Smith Richard & Dee Olitsky Irwin & Helen Rappaport Arnie & Leslie Vollmer David & Penny Macintyre Dolly Roth Barbara & David Jaffe Howard & Debbie Baum Stacy & Lance Seiser Beverly Banks Frank Hacker Russell Bogen Shelly Albert Ken Gerson & Susan Rosenberg Louis & Sharon Kapp Sheila Vihnanek Barbara & Jerry Snyderman David & Gloria Parsons Rosalind Owitz Ilya Zelder Stephen Wener Ida & Jeff Margolis Thomas Cardone REPORTERS: Richard Simon Renee & Rich Lane Brian & Mindi Simon Herb & Barbarta Lutsky Rhete Kanen Jacob Goldberger Elaine Leventhal Dr. & Mrs. S.F. Horowitz Lesley & Marvin Porter Reeva & Ian Shaffer Beverly Drucker Richard & Gail Foster Monica Strumwater Shirlene Grasgreen Howard Silverman Janet Richardson Faye Kirch Morton Goldberg Charlotte Lefton Terri Goldberg Susan & Leonard Zimmerman Steve & Merrill Paletsky Maurice & Carol Kabili Julia Perry Barbara & Lane Carlin Rosalyn Shraiar Irwin Wolfe Beatrice Allen John Kampner The Marquardt family Carol Price Marlene Tehrani Hal Bozof Rabbi & Mrs. Stephen Fuchs Ruth & Herbert Zimmer Heidi Hazelcorn Gary & Alicia Starr Shelah & Robert Lubner Rich Bornfreund Doreen Kostel Ellen & Michael Feingold Stephanie & Stuart Stern Hillary Stone Janice Rosenthal Eve & Joel Aron Alane Laboda Yetta Steinberg Francine Chester Dr. Daniel & Lisa Bendetowicz Roberto & Rachelle Luna Marvin & Judy Weiner Lila Greenspan Stanley Smulyan Linda Sweet Carol & Irwin Friedman Marc & Monica Schneider Barbara Amar Irene Hegedus Acknowledgments will continue in Arlene Bachman R.L. Kessluk subsequent issues for those contributions Tanya Hochschild that arrive after this issue’s deadline. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 OUR COMMUNITY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 9 New JLI course: Crime and Consequence his February, Rabbi Yitzchok these serious flaws in our criminal jus- “Crime and Consequence is for of Presumed Innocent and 13 other Minkowicz of Chabad Luba- tice system?” said Rabbi Minkowicz. people who care deeply about hu- bestselling novels on criminal law, Tvitch of Southwest Florida will “I believe the first step is for us, as a manity, who are enraged at injustice, commented that this course “...shows offer Crime and Consequence, a new community, to acknowledge the issues and who are fascinated by real-life that this is a subject that involves our six-session course by the acclaimed and explore possible solutions. And catch-22 scenarios,” remarked Rabbi oldest and most treasured ideas of right Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) can you think of a better place to look Zalman Abraham of JLI’s Brooklyn, and wrong.” exploring 3,000 years of Jewish per- for guidance than Judaism’s wisdom of New York, headquarters. “Participants Crime and Consequence is ac- spective on conviction, sentencing and the ages?” will uncover the humanity within all credited in the State of Florida for at- criminal rehabilitation. Participants in the course will pon- people – including criminals – ques- torneys and other law professionals Beginning Thursday, February 7 der foundational questions: What is the tion judicial practices that seem uneth- to earn continuing education credits. at 12:30 p.m. (day course) and 7:30 goal of criminal punishment – to gain ical and unfair, and explore effective Like all JLI programs, this course is p.m. (evening course), participants will retribution for the victim, to keep crim- crime deterrents.” designed for people at all levels of challenge their thinking, ponder the inals off the streets and safeguard from “It is a profound irony that the knowledge, including those without implications of ancient Talmudic wis- future crime, to set an example and in- United States is a true beacon of de- any prior experience or background dom for complex modern cases, and still the fear of law, or to rehabilitate mocracy, freedom and the rule of law in Jewish learning. All JLI courses get to the heart of the most pressing the criminal and reintroduce him to while it imprisons more of its own citi- are open to the public, and attendees injustices facing our criminal justice society? Should we consider testimo- zenry than any other country,” wrote need not be affiliated with a particular system today. nies given in exchange for a reduced Professor Alan Dershowitz, Professor synagogue, temple or other house of “DNA testing is proving that we’ve sentence as reliable evidence? Emeritus at Harvard Law School, in his worship. been convicting innocent people. The course also boldly addresses endorsement of the course. “Crime and Interested students may call When we incarcerate first-time offend- society’s most serious sentencing ques- Consequence... brings rigorous legal 239.433.7708 or visit www.myJLI. ers, we’re turning them into hardened tions: Is life-without-parole a justifiable analysis, statistical data on incarcera- com for registration and other course- criminals. Known murderers are able penalty? May we sentence a person to tion and rehabilitation, and case stud- related information. JLI courses are to walk free on a technicality. How death? When would these options be ies into a uniquely profound dialogue presented in Fort Myers in conjunction can we stand by and remain silent to warranted? Is there a better way? with the values undergirding our entire with Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest political tradition.” Florida and sponsored by Dr. Gary & Scott Turow, attorney and author Marlene Price. Stay in touch throughout the month. Sign up for the Federation’s e-blasts. Get the latest information on upcoming community events and cultural activities, breaking news, updates from Israel and lots more. Send an email to [email protected]

Senior Outreach Program Experience ArtFest as a VIP Receive VIP Perks & FREE Parking ALL weekend!

February 2 & 3 OPENING NIGHT pm Come out for lunch, see familiar Febr. uary 1,6 faces and meet new friends at Edwards Drive & Hendry Street our free monthly senior lunches Downtown Fort Myers Riverfront

Thursday, February 7th 12:00 PM Temple Beth Shalom 702 SE 24th Ave. Cape Coral, FL 33990 RSVP by Feb. 4th

Artist Gail Markiewicz, Thursday, March 14th $125 Ceramics 12:00 PM per person Temple Judea Support the arts in this gathering of art connoisseurs 14886 A and W Bulb Rd. DON’T MISS just like you as you enjoy all the benefits of being a VIP. Fort Myers, FL 33908 THE BIGGEST RSVP by March 11th ART EVENT VIP Club Tent on Opening Night, Friday, February 1st OF THE YEAR! Overlooking the downtown waterfront and glorious sunset VIP Party is – Gourmet hors d'oeuvres from 8 fine restaurants an outdoor – Wine and Beer / Music by Silver Sneakers Band tented event - – 70 fabulous artists rain or shine! Let us know if you will be VIP Club Tent Saturday & Sunday, February 2nd & 3rd driving or if you would like Garden setting overlooking the downtown waterfront a volunteer to pick you up. VIP Experience – Mimosas, coffee and scones to start your day Sponsored by: – Catered specialty lunch / Afternoon Snack Bar RSVP—Jodi Cohen – Wine, beer and more all day 239-481-4449, ext. 2 or – 215 fabulous artists [email protected] Easy reserved VIP parking all weekend!

RESERVE YOUR TICKETS TODAY! ArtFestFortMyers.com L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 10 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR COMMUNITY

BIRTH Leslie Luzar Memorial Stars of David Mazel Tov to Community Free Synagogue par- ticipants Seth and Simone Monaco on the birth Cantorial Shabbat Series of their son Noah Langston Monaco, whom Rabbi Bruce Diamond helped bring into the Covenant of at Temple Beth El Abraham on his 8th day early in January. Welcome he Leslie Luzar Memorial Can- Leslie Jean Luzar, and her family for Noah Levi! torial Shabbat Series at Temple providing such an interesting and in- Beth El kicked off with a special spirational program. Each month, L’CHAYIM will list your Life Cycle events T – births, B’nai Mitzvah, engagements, weddings, performance by Cantor Jamie Marx Our next guest cantor will be the anniversaries and obituaries. For B’nai Mitzvah, from Temple Shalom of Broomall, famous Cantor Marshall Portnoy. We please include up to 150 words about your child. Pennsylvania. sing the lovely “Y’hu L’ratzon/Oseh Submit your events to [email protected]. Cantor Marx sang old favorite Shalom,” which he composed, dur- Photos are appreciated; please e-mail as JPGs at 300dpi. tunes and taught the congregation ing festival and Shabbat worship. This some new tunes, as well. His sermon special service takes place on Friday, on contemporary Jewish congrega- February 8 at 7:30 p.m. in the TBE tional music was delightful. Exuding sanctuary. enthusiasm from each note of his wor- We are so fortunate to experience VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED ship music, he chanted and translated the rare talents of the vocalists in this the Torah parsha for a rapt audience. series. The worship team of TBE is Temple Beth El is excited to host proud to bring these enriching cantor- this cantorial series and grateful to our ial performances to the community. beloved member of blessed memory, To help us pack Passover Gift Bags Community Free Synagogue to be delivered to our events and programs Adult Community! C.F.S. Pre-Purim Photo Shoot It’s loads of fun and just the right way Open to All to get on track for Purim! The first photo shoot for the Commu- Community Free Synagogue Tuesday, April 2nd at nity Free Synagogue’s “PowerPoint Movie Night Purim 4.0” will take place at the syna- Join us at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb- 10:00 A.M. gogue starting at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, ruary 14 for a screening of Annie Hall. February 17. Participants will pose for Often considered one of the screen’s Deliverers are also needed. Bags will several scenes from the story of Purim finest romantic comedies, Woody- Al which will be shown along with the len’s classic is the perfect choice for be ready for pick-up 4/3 - 4/5 The Community Free Synagogue’s from 9am to 5 pm Valentine’s Day installment of its Please contact Debbie Sanford to volunteer “Brown Bag Movie at 239.481.4449 ext. 4 Night,” the county’s longest-running or [email protected] movie series. While romance Thank you! often involves erot- icism, neuroticism is Allen’s version of Jews in love. It’s not only hilarious, but also a sweet and Haman (Phillip Bain) admonishes Mordecai (Rabbi Thomas Miess) charming explora- in a scene from the C.F.S. 2016 “PowerPoint Purim 3.0” tion of what hap- Megillah reading during the March pens when cultural worlds collide, in festival. The photo shoot is open to all; this case, famischt New York Jewish costumes and props will be provided. and quirky Wisconsin WASP. The film Be a king and queen, a banished won the Academy Awards 1977 Best queen, a hero or villain, a royal guard Picture of the Year. or steward, a Persian harem girl, or just Pack and dinner; soft drinks and part of the throng in Shushan. No prior snacks are free. The event takes place acting experience is required but the in the C.F.S. Community Hall, 10868 ability to schmaltz it up is a real plus. Metro Parkway, Fort Myers. FINEMARK NATIONAL BANK & TRUST IS PROUD TO CONSISTENTLY EARN A 5-STAR RATING FROM BAUER FINANCIAL, THE NATION’S LEADING INDEPENDENT BANK RATING FIRM*.

We attribute our success to delivering unparalleled Sundays at 4:00 P.M. service and putting our clients fi rst. 2/3, 2/10, 2/17 & 2/24

Jewish Federation Community Room 9701 Commerce Center Ct., Fort Myers 33908

All ages & levels of dance experience are welcome. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a water bottle AND A FRIEND!

Fort Myers • Bonita Springs • Charleston • Estero • Naples • Palm Beach • Scottsdale RSVP a MUST to Marsha Kistler www.fi nemarkbank.com • 239-461-5900 • Member FDIC • Equal Housing Lender Trust and investment services are not FDIC insured, are not guaranteed by the bank and may lose value. *5-Star Financial Rating issued by Bauer Financial, a leading independent bank rating and research fi rm. Rating is 5 out of 5. [email protected] L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 11 Stars of David Interested in Your By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist Editor’s note: Persons in BOLD CAPS are deemed by Nate Bloom to Family’s History? be Jewish for the purpose of the column. Persons identified as Jewish have at least one Jewish parent and were not raised in a faith other than Nate Bloom (see column at left) has become a family history expert in 10 Judaism – and don’t identify with a faith other than Judaism as an adult. Converts years of doing his celebrity column, and he has expert friends who can help to Judaism, of course, are also identified as Jewish. when called on. Most family history experts charge $1,000 or more to do a full family-tree search. However, Bloom knows that most people want to start TV/Streaming Viewing; episode can be viewed free online or with a limited search of one family line. Catch-Up and Look Ahead via on-demand.) Fam is a sit-com that premiered on The PBS celebrity ancestry series, So here’s the deal: CBS on January 10. Nina Dobrev Finding Your Roots, began a new sea- Write Bloom at [email protected] and enclose a phone number. stars as Clem, a woman who seems son on January 8. PBS posts already- Nate will then contact you about starting a limited search. If that to have a perfect life. But perfection aired episodes for free viewing on its ends when her out-of-control, 16-year- website for about a month after their goes well, additional and more extensive searches are possible. old half-sister Shannon (ODESSA first broadcast. After that, you have to The first search fee is no more than $100. No upfront cost. Also, ADLON, 17) shows up unannounced be a “Passport” member to “unlock” in need of a place to stay. This is the the episodes (requires a minimum $5 several of this newspaper’s readers have asked Bloom to locate first big role for Adlon, who is the monthly donation to your PBS sta- friends and family members from their past, and that’s worked out daughter of actress/writer/director tion). The January 8 episode featured great for them. So contact him about this as well. PAMELA ADLON, 52. Pamela Ad- ANDY SAMBERG, 40, and George lon’s hit FX series, Better Things, fea- R.R. Martin, the author of the Game of tures her as the single mother of three Thrones books. Partial spoiler: Andy’s that she keeps dying at the party only was the defendant in a high-profile daughters. In real life, she is the single (Jewish) mother was adopted and he to be mysteriously revived. She finds case, was wrongly convicted and even- mother of three daughters. However, learns all about his biological grand- herself, time and time again, going tually was proved innocent. Lefevre’s she didn’t use her real daughters to mother and grandfather. Martin finds to this same party, dying and doing it background is just like Radcliffe’s: play her TV daughter. (The pilot epi- out that he had a Jewish biological all again the next day. her mother is Jewish and, while she’s sode can be viewed free online or via grandfather (his other “grands” weren’t Miracle Workers, a comedy, starts secular, she identifies as Jewish. Her It’s loads of fun and just the right way on-demand.) Jewish). on February 12 on TBS. DANIEL stepfather is a Canadian rabbi. to get on track for Purim! Passage, a sci-fi drama, started on Episode 4, which first airs on Janu- RADCLIFFE, 29 (Harry Potter), stars Oscars Note Community Free Synagogue Fox on January 14. Mark-Paul Gos- ary 29, features SHERYL SAND- as Craig, a low-level angel responsible The Oscars ceremony will be on Feb- Movie Night selaar, who had a Jewish grandfather, BERG, 49, the chief operating officer for handling all of humanity’s prayers. ruary 24. Sadly, this column must go Join us at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb- stars as Brad Wolgast, a Federal agent of Facebook. Episode 5, first airing on His boss, God (Steve Buscemi), spends to print before the Oscar nominations ruary 14 for a screening of Annie Hall. tasked with bringing Amy, a young February 5, will feature former House most of his time on his hobbies, rather have been announced. So, I can’t give Often considered one of the screen’s girl, to a super-secret medical base Speaker Paul Ryan. It’s already been than attending to mankind’s prob- you a Jewish nominee list. However, finest romantic comedies, Woody Al- where she will be a test subject for a made public that Ryan was surprised lems. The series is based on a novel by it’s almost certain that the only Jew- len’s classic is the perfect choice for dangerous virus that has the potential when he learned, on air, that he had SIMON RICH, 34, the son of FRANK ish acting nominees (if they are nomi- The Community to end all disease. The downside is about 3% Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry. RICH, 69, the former New York Times nated at all) are going to be RACHEL Free Synagogue’s things could go very wrong and the Episode 7, airing first on February 19, theater critic and opinion columnist. WEISZ, 48, and TIMOTHÉE CHA- Valentine’s Day virus could end all life on Earth. Wol- features comedian SARAH SILVER- Radcliffe’s mother is Jewish and he LAMET, 24, for supporting roles in, installment of its gast bonds with Amy, becoming her MAN, 48. identifies as Jewish, although he isn’t respectively, The Favourite and Beau- “Brown Bag Movie surrogate father. While trying to pro- The original Netflix black com- religious. tiful Boy. By the way, Amazon helped Night,” the county’s tect her, he becomes aware of a lot edy series, Russian Doll, premieres on Starting on February 15 is the le- fund Beautiful Boy, and it’s been play- longest-running of other really weird and dangerous February 1. It has kind of a Groundhog gal drama Proven Innocent. It stars ing on the Amazon Prime streaming movie series. things going on at the base. He turns Day premise. NATASHA LYONNE, RACHELLE LEFEVRE, 39, as service since early January (free for While romance to his ex-wife, Dr. Lilia Kyle, for help. 39 (who co-created the series), stars Madeline Scott, a fierce attorney who Prime members). often involves erot- Kyle is played by EMMANUELLE as a woman, Nadia, who is the guest leads a team to exonerate the wrongly icism, neuroticism CHRIQUI, 43 (Entourage). (The pilot of honor at a party. Her problem is convicted. The back story is that Scott is Allen’s version of Jews in love. It’s not only hilarious, but also a sweet and charming explora- SAVE THE DATE: EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP ON AGING IN PLACE tion of what hap- pens when cultural worlds collide, in this case, famischt New York Jewish and quirky Wisconsin WASP. The film won the Academy Awards 1977 Best Picture of the Year. Pack and dinner; soft drinks and snacks are free. The event takes place in the C.F.S. Community Hall, 10868 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers.

Available TOP RATED 24/7including weekends Assist with Long-term Care Insurance HHA#29994207 L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 12 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST The women’s Führer By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD n February 1934 – 85 years ago this the Liberal-Jew-Bolshevik theory of month – a woman named Gertrud ‘women’s equality,’” as any accep- IScholtz-Klink was appointed by tance of it “dishonors them.” the Nazi Party to be leader of the Na- Run under the close supervision of tional Socialist Women’s League (NS- Heinrich Himmler, Scholtz-Klink su- Frauenschaft). As such, she became pervised the running of six-week train- the most senior woman in Third Reich. ing programs for young women known She was born Gertrud Emma as “Nazi bride schools.” The course of Treusch on February 9, 1902, into instruction ensured that women learned an anti-Semitic Christian family in how to become good wives in service Adelsheim, Baden, to the Nazi state. An important part of where her father was the course saw to it that women would the district survey- acquire detailed knowledge of race or. Her father died and genetics, and instruction was also when she was eight, given on how young women could be- leaving her mother come perfect partners for SS soldiers. to raise Gertrud and The NS-Frauenschaft was thus the her two brothers. breeding ground for the master race.  Dr. Paul Leaving school in The private sphere of women became Bartrop 1918, she worked as inextricably bound up with masculinist a nurse in Berlin during the last days Nazi ideology. The Nazi state sought of World War I. At the age of 18, she strict control over female reproduction, married an elementary school teacher, as women’s bodies provided the means Eugen Klink, with whom she had six for engineering racial purity. children, one of whom died in infancy. Many years later, American schol- In the early 1920s, they joined the Nazi ar Claudia Koonz interviewed Scholtz- Party, and Eugen Klink became a Nazi Klink about the situation in Nazi Ger- district officer. He died of a heart attack many regarding the Jews. As this fitted at a rally in 1930. into the male sphere, however, Scholtz- During their time together, Gertrud Klink denied any involvement. She Klink saw her role as one of helping knew that Jewish women were denied her husband in his Party activities – access to Frauenschaft activities, but looking after the organization of Party she did not go out of her way to help kitchens during events, sewing, or or- any Jews seeking assistance because, ganizing daycare for the children of the she said, she “did not know any.” At Party’s female members. In 1929, she the same time, she considered the treat- became leader of the NSDAP women’s ment of Jews to be legal, and therefore section in Baden. beyond the realm of judgement – par- In 1932, she married a country ticularly by women. doctor, Günther Scholtz, taking the sur- Scholtz-Klink led the NS-Frauen- name “Scholtz-Klink.” They divorced schaft from February 1934 to 1945. in 1938 because he did not share her She divorced Günther Scholtz in 1938, passion for Nazi politics. and in 1940 married her third husband, Adolf Hitler appointed Scholtz- SS-Obergruppenführer August Heiss- Klink as Reichsführerin (Women’s meyer. They combined their families. Leader) and head of the National So- She had five surviving children, and cialist Women’s League (NS-Frauen- Heissmeyer had five from a previ- schaft). She then established one of the ous marriage. Later, they had another largest women’s organizations in his- child together. In 1944, the Nazi Party tory. Its fundamental concern was with advertised Scholtz-Klink and her 11 Like us on Facebook! issues relating to the family, particular- children as a “fertility model” for the ly motherhood. A woman’s role in Nazi Third Reich. What it did not add was Germany was to be considered sacro- that Scholtz-Klink and Heissmeyer sanct. It would be her selfless duty to made frequent trips to visit prisoners in ConneCt give birth to as many children as pos- women’s concentration camps in line with your Jewish Community sible, to take care of her body to en- with Heissmeyer’s role as Inspector of sure maximum fertility, and to make a Concentration Camps. good German home. Presenting a child After World War II, Scholtz-Klink www.facebook.com/ to the Führer was the greatest form of and Heissmeyer fled Berlin. Captured facebook.com/jfedsrq contribution a German woman could in the summer of 1945 and impris- JewishFederationLCC make to the Fatherland. oned in a Soviet prisoner of war camp In July 1936, Scholtz-Klink was near Magdeburg, they managed to es- promoted to lead the Women’s Bureau cape and then lived quietly in the vil- in the German Labor Front (Deutsche lage of Bebenhausen, Germany, where Arbeitsfront), responsible for persuad- Scholtz-Klink spent the next three ing women to work to the advantage years under the alias of Maria Stucke- of the Nazi government. In 1938, she brock. On February 28, 1948, how- argued that “the German woman must ever, she was identified and arrested. A work and work, physically and men- French military court sentenced her to tally she must renounce luxury and 18 months in prison on the charge of pleasure.” Just as the SS under Hein- forging documents, and in May 1950, a rich Himmler oversaw the separation reevaluation of her sentence penalized of Jews from mainstream German life, her with an additional 30 months. so Scholtz-Klink directed the discon- After her release from prison in nect between women and the daily life 1953, Scholtz-Klink settled back in of Nazi-dominated male society. She Bebenhausen. She later confirmed her spoke often against women participat- ongoing support for Nazism, beliefs NEEDED TO LABEL ’CHAYIM ing in government or public life, say- she held through to her death at age 97, ing, “Anyone who has seen the Com- on March 24, 1999. JOIN US for coffee, bagels and the simple satisfaction munist and Social Democratic women Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of His- that comes from meeting and making friends with scream on the street and in the parlia- tory and the Dir. of the Center for Ju- other volunteers, as we help keep thousands of local ment, will realize that such an activity daic, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies readers informed about local, national and interna- is not something which is done by a at Florida Gulf Coast University. He tional Jewish news. true woman.” Elsewhere, she alerted can be reached at [email protected]. her members that they had to “deny Call Debbie Sanford 481.4449 ext. 4 to add your name to the phone list. Each month we What do you think? will call to confirm the mailing date and you can let us know if you are available to help label L’CHAYIM. L’CHAYIM wants to know! Time: 9:30 A.M. Send your letters & comments to [email protected]. Letters Policy Monday, February 25, 2019 Letters must include the writer’s full name, full address and daytime phone. Letters Monday, March 25, 2019 should be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length and/ or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of L’CHAYIM nor its advertisers. We cannot acknowledge or publish every letter received. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 13 The women’s Führer the Liberal-Jew-Bolshevik theory of ‘women’s equality,’” as any accep- tance of it “dishonors them.” Run under the close supervision of Location. Location. Heinrich Himmler, Scholtz-Klink su- pervised the running of six-week train- ing programs for young women known as “Nazi bride schools.” The course of instruction ensured that women learned how to become good wives in service to the Nazi state. An important part of Shell Point. the course saw to it that women would acquire detailed knowledge of race and genetics, and instruction was also given on how young women could be- come perfect partners for SS soldiers. The NS-Frauenschaft was thus the breeding ground for the master race. The private sphere of women became inextricably bound up with masculinist Nazi ideology. The Nazi state sought strict control over female reproduction, as women’s bodies provided the means for engineering racial purity. Many years later, American schol- ar Claudia Koonz interviewed Scholtz- Klink about the situation in Nazi Ger- many regarding the Jews. As this fitted into the male sphere, however, Scholtz- Klink denied any involvement. She knew that Jewish women were denied access to Frauenschaft activities, but she did not go out of her way to help any Jews seeking assistance because, she said, she “did not know any.” At the same time, she considered the treat- ment of Jews to be legal, and therefore Waterfront Resort Retirement Lifestyle beyond the realm of judgement – par- ticularly by women. and the Assurance of Lifecare Scholtz-Klink led the NS-Frauen- schaft from February 1934 to 1945. She divorced Günther Scholtz in 1938, and in 1940 married her third husband, SS-Obergruppenführer August Heiss- meyer. They combined their families. She had five surviving children, and Heissmeyer had five from a previ- ous marriage. Later, they had another child together. In 1944, the Nazi Party advertised Scholtz-Klink and her 11 children as a “fertility model” for the Third Reich. What it did not add was that Scholtz-Klink and Heissmeyer made frequent trips to visit prisoners in women’s concentration camps in line with Heissmeyer’s role as Inspector of EXPLORE SHELL POINT TODAY! Concentration Camps. After World War II, Scholtz-Klink ATTEND A DISCOVERY SEMINAR | 9:30 A.M. and Heissmeyer fled Berlin. Captured in the summer of 1945 and impris- Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday oned in a Soviet prisoner of war camp near Magdeburg, they managed to es- February 5 February 13 February 20 February 27 cape and then lived quietly in the vil- lage of Bebenhausen, Germany, where Wednesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Scholtz-Klink spent the next three years under the alias of Maria Stucke- February 6 February 19 February 26 March 5 brock. On February 28, 1948, how- ever, she was identified and arrested. A French military court sentenced her to 18 months in prison on the charge of forging documents, and in May 1950, a reevaluation of her sentence penalized Endless Stream of Opportunities her with an additional 30 months. After her release from prison in After closing the door on my 30-year career in radio and ‘‘ 1953, Scholtz-Klink settled back in news broadcasting, Shell Point gave me the opportunity to Bebenhausen. She later confirmed her expand my expertise and skills in retirement. Getting involved ongoing support for Nazism, beliefs she held through to her death at age 97, in their daily television program and educational activities, on March 24, 1999. as a resident volunteer, has given me a renewed sense of Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of His- ‘‘ tory and the Dir. of the Center for Ju- creativity. Now I’m exploring new hobbies and interests. daic, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies David Hauenstein at Florida Gulf Coast University. He (9 Years) can be reached at [email protected]. What do you think?

L’CHAYIM wants to know! Unparalleled setting. Unparalleled lifestyle.™ Send your letters & comments to [email protected]. Letters Policy EXPLORE TODAY! Call (239) 529-4749 or 1-800-780-1131 or visit www.shellpoint.org Letters must include the writer’s full name, full address and daytime phone. Letters Shell Point is located in Fort Myers on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River just 2 miles from the Islands of Sanibel and Captiva. should be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length and/ or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of L’CHAYIM nor its Shell Point is a nonprofit ministry of The Christian and Missionary Alliance Foundation, Inc. ©2019 Shell Point. All rights reserved. SLS-3811-19 advertisers. We cannot acknowledge or publish every letter received. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 14 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Who gets to decide what it means to be a Jew? And for how long? Book review by Philip K. Jason, Special to L’CHAYIM from surveys that attempt The Jewish American Paradox: dynamics of Jewish identity stabilize This, for Mnookin, is to measure the pulse of Embracing Choice in a Changing or reverse the downward trend in the not a model to be encour- Jewish identity. His analy- World, by Robert Mnookin. identified Jewish population? aged. America, at its best, ses and projections based PublicAffairs. 330 pages. Mnookin finds most of the identity is built on inclusiveness. on these surveys are particu- Hardcover. $28.00 elements restrictive and therefore limit- Israel, for more and more ing. Can one have a Jewish life without Jews (and others), does not larly useful in gauging trends n The Jewish American Paradox, Jewish knowledge? Without Jewish measure up. Identification that Jewish leaders need to Robert Mnookin puts effective DNA (if there is such a thing)? Without with Israel is threatened by understand and build upon. lawyerly reasoning and compelling ascribing to behaviors (both dos and the Orthodox stranglehold Indeed, on all the issues I that he pursues, the author personal experience to work in service don’ts) provided in holy scripture and on defining who is a Jew. of sketching the situation of 21st- authoritative commentaries? Moreover, many Jews goes far beyond the stage century American Jews. He plays and Mnookin argues for inclusiveness, who are otherwise committed to Israel of worrying. His pages are filled with wrestles with large and his arguments are well shaped and cannot accept the country’s policies common-sense suggestions, and the questions regard- compelling. He is more comfortable regarding settlements. They see Israel extensive chapter notes open windows ing the elements with notions like nationhood or people- as the villain undermining a two-state for further contemplation. of Jewish identity hood, in part because such concepts solution – or any solution. Mnookin’s presentation of his per- and how the power have malleable borders. It is difficult to imagine Israel sonal Jewish journey is a significant of these elements Though Mnookin, in some ways, changing its policies to satisfy dias- aspect of this book. He gives firsthand has changed over respects Orthodoxy, he sees its insu- pora Jewish communities, but some accounts of how severe criteria for time. larity as a problem. He is not fond of measure of accommodation would tribal membership undermine a desired The author gatekeepers and doesn’t want nega- seem necessary to assure this crucial sense of Jewish cohesiveness. Why launches his dis- tive assessments or litmus tests on the identity factor. Key chapters in the book does an individual have to touch all  Phil cussion with an model of “she’s not include those that ask such the bases to have a home-run Jewish Jason attention-getting really Jewish because questions as: “Who Is a life? He also explores the power of the overview of “identity” illustrated by (of one shortcoming or Jew in [21st-century] Amer- potentially fruitful criterion of Jewish the life and work of identity’s master another).” ica?” and “Can We Survive self-anointment. theorist, Jewish-born Erik Erikson. This In the 20th century, Acceptance?” Perhaps individual Jews and brand- strategy proves to be intellectually stim- an important compo- As he turns toward ed Jewish communities (of faith and ulating and colorful. Having grabbed the nent of Jewish identity his conclusions, Mnookin other bonding elements) need to stop reader’s attention, Mnookin holds onto became identification explores “The Challenge grading one another. Such authenticity it with an accessible presentation about with Israel. Undoubt- of Intermarriage” and the rankings only serve the end of exclu- how to make both the “American Jewish edly, this factor con- connected topic of “Rais- sion. Though many will deny it, there community” and the various American tinues to have great ing a Jewish Child.” is a richness, a vibrancy, in picking and Jewish communities thrive. importance. However, Each chapter continues choosing what speaks to you as a Jew, Among the many traditional com- as Mnookin points to underscore the necessity sharing your enthusiasm, and respect- ponents of Jewish identity probed by out, the overwhelming Robert Mnookin of fostering and achieving ing/accepting those who grow their Mnookin are identification through power of Orthodox political parties and inclusiveness. Mnookin provides a lot Jewish identities differently. matriarchal lineage, religious commit- government officials is anti-inclusive. of information and opinion derived continued on next page ment and the racial – or “Jewish blood” Life-cycle events that reflect Jewish – concept. He probes deeply into each, identity are under strict control. Reli- testing its utility for a vibrant Jewish gious streams other than the Orthodox PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS future. are not sanctioned as truly Jewish. The context here is the declining Israelis, for the most part, are either WHO HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE Jewish population. Can changes in the Orthodox or secular.

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Phil Jason...continued from previous page God is in the Crowd: Twenty-First to insure the success of the most mar- the Jewish People. review reprinted with permission from Century Judaism, by Tal Keinan. ginal students is a problematic concept. Tal Keinan expects and encour- the Washington Independent Review Spiegel & Grau. 352 pages. However, in a situation that cries for ages responses to his impassioned plea of Books. God is in the Crowd review Hardcover. $28.00 inclusivity, reaching out to the lowest for Jews worldwide to end their march reprinted with permission from the common denominator – the standards, toward suicide. The power of the book Jewish Book Council. from surveys that attempt ven more urgently cast is Tal practices and goals that approach uni- is as much in the abundance of precise Find daily new reviews, to measure the pulse of Keinan’s argument. This inter- versal acceptance in the worldwide details as in its overall vision, which is reading recommenda- Jewish identity. His analy- disciplinary, game-changing ex- Jewish Community – is likely to turn clarifying and magnetic. tions and more at www.jewishbook ses and projections basedE ploration of the possible path for a the tide and insure a Jewish future. To Woven through the tapestry of council.org. on these surveys are particu- Jewish future is both alarm- get there, educational pat- facts and ideas is the compelling strand Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeri- larly useful in gauging trends ing and founded in hope. terns and priorities must of Keinan’s own life as an American tus of English from the United States that Jewish leaders need to Most of the news that Kein- change, and steadfast com- student, an officer and fighter pilot in Naval Academy. He reviews regularly understand and build upon. an reports about Jewish mitment needs to go viral. Israel’s Air Force, a successful entrepre- for Florida Weekly, Washington Inde- Indeed, on all the issues population trends, weak- Keinan carefully ex- neur shuttling between the United States pendent Review of Books, Southern that he pursues, the author ening Jewish identity, and amines the strengths and and Israel, and a concerned parent. He Literary Review, other publications and goes far beyond the stage the costs of exclusivity in weaknesses of the two asks, as did the great Jewish thinker the Jewish Book Council. Please visit of worrying. His pages are filled with Jewish movements and or- dominant centers of Jewish Hillel, “If not now, when?” Phil’s website at www.philjason.word common-sense suggestions, and the ganizations is heartbreak- life: the U.S. and Israel. He The Jewish American Paradox press.com. extensive chapter notes open windows ing even while undoubt- diagnoses the shortcomings for further contemplation. edly accurate. His most of each: the ways in which Mnookin’s presentation of his per- frightening observation societal segments exclude sonal Jewish journey is a significant is that his book, and the and undermine one another, aspect of this book. He gives firsthand understandings and arguments it offers, the established conditions funneling accounts of how severe criteria for may be 90 years too late. Keinan is Jewish history, wisdom and creativity tribal membership undermine a desired pointing the way toward a revolution, a into a death-spiral. He offers challeng- sense of Jewish cohesiveness. Why last-ditch effort to combat and counter ing solutions that require buying in to a does an individual have to touch all the forces that, if not checked, will, in a master plan. Or inventing a better one. #1 International Bestselling the bases to have a home-run Jewish few generations or less, make Judaism The plan includes the reinvigora- life? He also explores the power of the extinct. tion of “the wisdom machine” that Author Alyson Richman potentially fruitful criterion of Jewish This author will not allow us to keep maintained and shaped Jewish com- self-anointment. Lakes Regional Library, 15290 Bass Rd., betting on God’s love for his favorite munality during the Diaspora epoch. It Perhaps individual Jews and brand- people to save the day. includes as well a “Jew- Fort Myers ed Jewish communities (of faith and God’s love has always ish World Endowment” other bonding elements) need to stop been conditional. If She of values and resources. grading one another. Such authenticity NO CHARGE! is anywhere, She is in It requires a technologi- rankings only serve the end of exclu- the hard-won consensus cal platform to organize sion. Though many will deny it, there To register visit: about Jewish identity the future Jewish gov- is a richness, a vibrancy, in picking and and values that those ernment and authorize www.jewishfederationlcc.org/ choosing what speaks to you as a Jew, who care will bring an administrative head. sharing your enthusiasm, and respect- travelingauthors about. In this way, and Keinan’s candidate for ing/accepting those who grow their in ways depending on this position involves Jewish identities differently. modern technology and a re-tasking of Israel’s continued on next page calculations, She is in mostly symbolic office: Books will be sold at the event! the crowd. its presidency. The new For a long time, the Tal Keinan task for this office would In cooperation with: PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS mathematical phrase “lowest common be to become “the convening point for denominator” has had a negative con- Jews around the world to debate fun- WHO HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE notation when applied metaphorically damental questions of Peoplehood. It to cultural rankings. Designing tests would be the global administrator of

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Artist Yoram Gal, Painting Free and open to the community! Artist A light dairy dinner will be served. Gail Markiewicz, Ceramics Thank you to our generous sponsor: ArtFestFortMyers.com L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 16 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST My personal culinary trip to Israel King David – the world premiere of a failed musical f you like to eat, Israel is the best Today, shakshuka and shakshuka- as the signature dish that earned Bino By Arlene Stolnitz place to be. The secret is out that like dishes are taking Europe and his nickname. His trademark is the am a packrat as you might imag- Ithe flavors of Israel are trending America by storm, recently being billed personal frying pan in which he serves ine! Recently, going through some as a top cuisine. Israeli food is on the as a healthy foodie bowl. It is served each shakshuka. “That’s my invention,” papers I had been unable to dis- tables of the top chefs and is making everywhere in Israel, and many Tel Aviv he boasted. His establishment has been I card, I came across a rare discovery of waves around the world. Recently, I ate restaurants offer this staple dish on their feeding Israelis and tourists for decades. a long-forgotten CD. my way through the best restaurants of At Dr Shakshuka, Several years ago, knowing my in- Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and Northern Israel. you can order your terest in music of Judaica, Rabbi Mark I had the opportunity to travel to Israel shakshuka hot or mild. Blazer, a family friend from Temple for the first time in 11 years. As I packed He starts by frying Beth Ami in San- my suitcase, I thought the trip would strips of green pepper, ta Clarita, Cali- mostly be focused on my nephew’s adds garlic, then after fornia, had given wedding and visiting family and friends. two or three minutes, me a little known While there, however, I was blown away he puts in the tomatoes and obscure CD to discover Israel’s flourishing culinary and doesn’t stir, and of the musical scene. The food there is incredible – it’s just adds a bit of salt. King David by fresh, it’s flavorful and it’s innovative. “Sometimes friends legendary com- I tried malabi and kanafeh, bou- want to annoy me. So posers Tim Rice rekas, pita, zaatar and even well-known I wait another two to Personal Chef Dalia Hemed and Alan Men- foods like hummus and falafel. My kids three minutes and stir.” Arlene Stolnitz ken, well known can be reached at had shawarma almost daily. Israeli food Then he adds sweet in Broadway musical circles for pro- [email protected]. has so much more flavor and crunch paprika, “for the taste ductions such as Beauty and the Beast compared to what we have in the States. and also for the color grandchildren. He doesn’t have a prob-and The Lion King. I think we ate about every hour or so in – people eat with their lem telling everyone his recipe or even Menken and Rice had been com- the 14 days we spent in Israel, and while eyes, too,” he said. showing them how to make it! So heremissioned to write a musical to be per- my jeans may have been uncomfortably Then he adds crushed is his recipe: formed at the Sultan’s Pool, outside tight, my stomach grumbled happily Dalia Hemed with Bino Gabso in the Dr Shakshuka kitchen red peppers, stirs, waits Ingredients: the walled city of Jerusalem. It was along. menus. I’ve enjoyed shakshuka several a few minutes, and in go the eggs. After • ¼ cup canola oil originally conceived to commemorate Israeli cuisine is famous among times in Israel, most recently at a famous about a minute, he stirs around the eggs, • 10 cloves garlic, minced the 3,000th anniversary of the city of tourists for falafels, shawarma and hum- restaurant called Dr. Shakshuka. mixing only the egg white with the rest • 1 chili pepper, seeded and choppedJerusalem and was to be performed as mus. True, these are some of Israel’s Bino Gabso, better known as Dr. of the dish, leaving the yolks whole. • 8 ripe diced tomatoes an outdoor event. According to Rice, finest street food options, but there is Shakshuka, has the prescription for Bino’s shakshuka is served with • 1 tbsp paprika “When it proved logistically and finan- one dish that every single Israeli loves what ails Tel Aviv’s fast-food customers. bread – never sliced – and small salads • Pinch of cayenne pepper cially impossible to do it and Disney His restaurant is internationally known on the side, like a Libyan pumpkin dip, • Salt and pepper, to taste took an interest, we changed gears… as the spot to try all varieties of this for instance. He takes great pride in his • 6 eggs we felt we’d been commissioned to popular dish. shakshuka. When you eat his shakshuka XX Heat a deep, large skillet or sauté write it as an oratorio, and still hoped it Shakshuka, is one of the easiest pan on medium. Slowly warm thewould be performed as such in Israel… dishes to make, and one of the most oil in the pan. we should have emphasized that more, pleasurable to eat, especially at Dr XX Add garlic and continue to sauté tillto avoid being judged primarily as a Shakshuka. Shakshuka is a messy dish mixture is fragrant. Broadway show.” that allows total creativity. Its ingredi- XX Add the diced chili pepper, sauté With music by Alan Menken and ents are cheap and available, and it’s a for 5-7 minutes over medium untillyrics and book by Tim Rice, it is the dish that is suitable to the Israeli person- softened. biblical story of King David based on ality. You stir everything in a pan and XX Add tomatoes to pan, stir until stories from the Books of Samuel, 1 somehow it meshes. You have to make blended. Add spices and stir, and Chronicles, and includes the Psalms of sure that it’s hot but doesn’t burn, and allow mixture to simmer over me-David. It was produced on Broadway at some point, you always start sweating dium heat for 5-7 minutes until itin 1997 to a lukewarm audience. At and become red yourself. It’s especially starts to reduce. fun to eat shakshuka at Bino’s without XX At this point, you can taste the mix- any caution. You just dip the fresh bread ture, and spice it according to your into the pan. The eggs swim in tomatoes preferences. and paprika and everything is red hot, XX Add salt and pepper to taste. Dalia Hemed in front of Dr Shakshuka in Tel Aviv spicy and wonderful. Bino himself is XX Crack the eggs, one at a time, plac- and is worth all the trouble of travel- big, fun and generous, like his shakshu- ing them directly over the tomato ing to Israel. The one dish you need to ka. And he’s the only man in the world mixture, making sure to space them try before leaving Israel is shakshuka: who has a PhD in “shakshukology.” evenly over the sauce. I usually tomatoes, poached eggs, a few peppers Bino Gabso is a celebrity chef you get a little bit of both weight gain place 5 eggs around the outer edge and a little garlic. Need I say more? known for his North African home- and tears in your eyes, from the spici- and 1 in the center. The eggs will Shakshuka, the famous Israeli dish, cooking style. His Jaffa restaurant, lo- ness as well as the emotion. cook “over easy” style on top of the comes in many shapes and forms, but cated in the Jaffa Flea Market, includes Even though Bino is sure his tomato sauce. they all share a common (and delicious) dishes like couscous, mafroum (stuffed shakshuka is the best, he still encour- XX Cover the pan. Allow mixture to core rooted in the local cuisine that has potatoes), chraimeh (spicy fish), and ages people to make it at home, like simmer for 10 minutes. spread across the world. lamb or chicken shawarma, as well he does, for his five children and 12 XX Enjoy!

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 Doors open at 6:30, program starts at 7:00 P.M. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 17 King David – the world premiere of a failed musical By Arlene Stolnitz am a packrat as you might imag- the time, it was thought to be of too Those interested in hearing ex- sota Jewish Chorale, has sung in cho- ine! Recently, going through some serious a nature for a Broadway perfor- cerpts from the production can find ral groups for over 25 years. A retired I papers I had been unable to dis- mance. selected songs by principal players educator, she is a graduate of the Gulf card, I came across a rare discovery of Sometimes called a modern orato- from the show on YouTube by typing Coast Community Leadership Founda- a long-forgotten CD. rio or opera, it is mainly sung and con- in the title of the show. tion. A member of the Jewish Congre- Several years ago, knowing my in- tains little dialogue. The music swings My dream is to have a full stage gation of Venice, the Venice Chorale terest in music of Judaica, Rabbi Mark from jazz and pop to grand choral ar- production performed, but unfortu- and the Sarasota Jewish Chorale, her Blazer, a family friend from Temple rangements. A large orchestra and nately, at this point, the idea seems to interest in choral music has led to this Beth Ami in San- choir are included in the production. be out of reach. series of articles on Jewish Folk Music ta Clarita, Cali- It was staged in May 1997 in a con- Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sara- in the Diaspora. fornia, had given cert version by Disney Theater Com- me a little known pany and premiered in the newly reno- and obscure CD vated New Amsterdam Theater in New of the musical York City. Subsequent performances King David by were held at the Hollywood Bowl, in legendary com- Atlanta, Georgia, and Irving, Texas. posers Tim Rice But it never quite achieved the recogni- and Alan Men- tion it might have deserved. Critical re- Arlene Stolnitz ken, well known views called it “sober and respectful… in Broadway musical circles for pro- with enough information for a month Independently owned, family oriented… ductions such as Beauty and the Beast of Bible study classes.” The show, last- Together we celebrate tradition and The Lion King. ing two hours and forty-five minutes, Menken and Rice had been com- was called a “Goliath of a yawn,” even missioned to write a musical to be per- though kudos were given to outstand- formed at the Sultan’s Pool, outside ing performances by cast members the walled city of Jerusalem. It was and musical arrangements. The cast al- originally conceived to commemorate bum, which is the one I have, has been the 3,000th anniversary of the city of praised. Jerusalem and was to be performed as The cast of characters included an outdoor event. According to Rice, biblical figures such as Jonathan, Joab, “When it proved logistically and finan- Absolam, Michal, Bathsheba, Saul and cially impossible to do it and Disney Goliath, as well as a full ensemble of took an interest, we changed gears… singers who trace the life of David un- we felt we’d been commissioned to til his final days ending with the reprise write it as an oratorio, and still hoped it “This New Jerusalem,” sung by Solo- would be performed as such in Israel… mon and company. Numbers include we should have emphasized that more, songs such as “Israel and Saul,” “Sam- to avoid being judged primarily as a uel Anoints David,” “Goliath of Goth,” Broadway show.” “Death of Saul,” “The Ark Brought to With music by Alan Menken and Jerusalem” and “When in Love.” lyrics and book by Tim Rice, it is the The lush music is gorgeous and biblical story of King David based on expressive, making one wonder why stories from the Books of Samuel, 1 this work failed when, in later years, Chronicles, and includes the Psalms of a production like Hamilton has had 1589 Colonial Boulevard • Fort Myers, FL 33907 David. It was produced on Broadway such success. Could it have been the fortmyersmemorial.com • 239-936-0555 • 877-936-0555 in 1997 to a lukewarm audience. At timing? L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 18 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Spanish wines…they speak our language Amid tension along northern border, FIDF delivers By The Wine Whisperer hen I lived in Madrid in the which came in real bottles. One I par- Today, Spain is right up there with new favorites: personal care packages to Israeli soldiers early ’70s, I’d buy my wine ticularly enjoyed was called CASA the rest of the world in terms of wine- Bartolomé Vernet Primitiu de Wat the little shop on the cor- (the initials stood for something), making technology, philosophy, vine- Bellmunt Priorat 2014 ($50) – A ner. They dispensed it from big barrels which cost about 25 cents a liter and yard management and just about every Spanish blend of Grenache and Samsó along the wall, so I had to bring my was sealed with a little plastic stopper. other standard you can think of. There (Carignan), this is a full-bodied, rich, own container. No cork. Then someone told me that are basically two reasons for this. opaque treat with well-balanced fla- Large Nescafe the stuff in the bottle had never seen One, the fathers and grandfathers vors of black fruit, smoke, chocolate instant coffee a grape: it was water and alcohol with learned winemaking from their fore- and caramel. WW 91 jars were the some sugar and flavoring. I went back bears, who learned it from theirs, so Vinas del Vero La Miranda Gar- best. The bodega to the Nescafe jar. what was good enough for grandpa nacha Blanca Secastilla 2013 ($13) clerk would fill Of course, on special occasions was good enough for them. The barrels – From the foothills of the Pyrenees, it up, then calcu- we’d splurge on a real bottle with a were supposed to smell like the floor where it’s nice and cool, this Grenache late the price ac- cork: Marques de Riscal for around of a chicken coop. But the sons and Blanc has a rich deep amber color and cording to some $3, which came with this luxurious daughters learned their winemaking a nose of honey, almonds and herbs.  Jerry arcane formula gold wire netting around the bottle. skills from the University of Bordeaux The flavors follow through with peach, Greenfield that’s compre- Most of the other wines we tried were or UC Davis or Fresno State. Big dif- a bit of citrus acidity and spice. WW 87 hensible only to Druids and Basque harsh, rustic and headache-inducing, ference. Las Moradas Grenache Senda separatists. Was the wine any good? I but I wasn’t much of a wine geek at the Two, every aspect of winemaking 2013 ($11) – This is a lot of wine for have no idea. time. And besides, I was making $325 technology has come a long way in the the money. Rich concentrated and One step up from the fill-it place a month. last 25-30 years. The kids understand inky purple in the glass, with scents of was the wine sold in supermarkets, My, how times have changed. it. The dads don’t. smoke and cedar from the 10 months The fruit-forward style mentioned it spends in French oak. There’s plenty above comes from the fact that Spanish of tannic structure supporting flavors winemakers have (mostly) gotten away of plum, blackberry and earth. WW 89 from keeping their wine in oak barrels Correction IDF soldiers stationed along Israel’s northern border receiving sweet packages on the sixth night of Hanukkah for decades. While some still put up In a past article about South Africa I the juice for 20 or 30 years, most wines noted that the Pinotage grape is a “hy- are now much fresher right out of the brid.” This was not correct. It is, in bottle. fact, a cross between two grapes of the And don’t overlook the whites, same genus, Pinot Noir and Cinsault. I which are mostly made in a fruity, re- regret the error. Thanks to Peter May of freshing style. Spain is making Sauvi- pinotage.org for pointing this out. gnon Blanc, but there’s plenty to enjoy Jerry Greenfield is The Wine Whisper- from native grapes like Verdejo and er. He is Creative Director of Green- Albariño. There’s also cava, a sparkler field Media & Marketing, and Wine that combines Chardonnay and Maca- Director of the international Direct beo. It’s made by the Champagne pro- Cellars wine club. His new book, Ask cess, and often represents Champagne- the Wine Whisperer, has just been pub- style quality at a more agreeable price. lished. Read his other writings at www. I have a little homework assign- winewhisperer.com. ment for you. When you raise that glass of Rioja or Monsant, you have What do you think? Need to to propose a toast, so memorize this: reach the editor of L’CHAYIM? Salud, amor, y dinero, y el tiempo para Send an email to gustarlos. Health, love and money… and the time to enjoy them. Like these [email protected]. Grow your business with L’CHAYIM!

JEWISH FILM FESTIAL

JAUARY 2019 L'CHAYIM 1 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties Each month, 5,000 The Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotterd Counties Annual Jewish residents Targeted Distribution Presents the 23 Jewish Film Festival in Lee and Charlotte Reach our affluent, informed, health-conscious, and of Southwest Florida savvy readers who are looking for new and better ways All lms will be screened at the Regal Belltower Stadium 20. Open seating at all lms for general admission tickets. counties turn to ikets will be mailed u to eember 1 to enrich their lives and those of their loved ones. ikets ordered ater eember 1 will be aailable ater 6:00 m inside te teater on te day o te sow2019 11 L'CHAYIM JAUARY L’CHAYIM for: Sunday, January 13 at 4:00Jewish Federation p.m. of Lee and Charlotte Counties L’CHAYIM – the monthly newspaper published by the THE GRADUATE JEWISH INTEREST When The Graduate premiered in December 1967, its fi lmmakers had modest expectations for what seemedInterested to be a small, sexy art-house comedy in adapted Your from an obscure fi rst novel by an eccentric 24-year-old. Who knew this off beat story – a young man just out of college has an aff air with one of his parents’ friends and then runs off withFamily’s her daughter – would turnSeduced out History?to be by a monsterMrs. Rob- hit Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties – is Stars of David with seven Academy Award nominations. u By Nate Bloom, ContributingBOLD Columnist CAPS are deemed by Nate Bloom*We towill be joinedNate by Bloomauthor Beverly (seeThe Graduatecolumn Gray, author ’sat the left ofinfl ) uencehas becomeon the future a family of history expert in 10 Upcoming major events Persons in Editor’s note: inson, for an in-depthyears look of doing at his celebrity column, and he has expert friends who can help fi lmmaking and when explore called how iton. rocked Most the family late-sixties history world, experts refl ecting charge and $1,000 or more to do a be Jewish for the purpose of the column. Persons identified as Jewish changing the era’sfull views family-tree of sex, work search. and However,marriage. Her Bloom insight knows into never-that most people want to start have at least one Jewish parent and were not raised in a faith other than before-revealed detailswith a will limited enlighten search and1 hr.of entertain one46 min. family you. line. Judaism – and don’t identify with a faith other than Judaism as an adult. ConvertsLanguage: English Running Time: o hees the e mailed to 5,000 residents in the area. Additional copies to Judaism, of course, are also identifi ed asPoppins Jewish. Returns). Hurwitz won two Oscars in 2017 for best score andSponsored best by Radiology Regional Center It’s Awards Season: ). Shaiman is best u song (La La Land Write Bloom at [email protected] and enclose a phone number. Community Directory The Golden Globes are being known for his score for the musical ver- The Golden Globe Awards Nate will then contact you about starting a limited search. If that sion of Hairspray. Brief musical refer- televised live this year on NBC, on Poppins re-make ences are made in the goes well, additional and more extensive searches are possible. Sunday, January 6 at 8:00 p.m., 40, Sandra will to theTuesday, mega-hit score of the January original The 15 rst at search 7:15 fee is nop.m. more than $100. No upfront cost. Also, are available at the Jewish Federation office. Oh and ANDY SAMBERG RICHARD SHER- 1964 Poppins fi lm. host. The Globes are an imperfect pre- several of this newspaper’s readers have asked Bloom to locate MANSunday,, 90, who wrote the January ’64 score with 27 at 3:00 p.m.* dictor of the Oscars. But the Globes cer- ROBERT, consulted on u his late brother, THE OSLOfriends and DIARIES family members from their past, and that’s worked out Synagogue news emony is often more fun than the Oscars The year is 1992, and Israeli-Palestinian relations are at an all-time low. In an BRAD the new fi lm. equivalent. Below are the confi rmed great for them. So contact him about this as well. TV Categories attempt to stop the bloodshed, a small group of Israelis and Palestinians’80s. Pose meet was co-created by Jewish nominees and a number of non- in Oslo – secretly and against the law. The unsanctioned meetings that changed, 47, who recently wed Acting: SACHA BARON COHEN The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. FALCHUK nominated Jews closely connected to a the Middle Eastcharacter forever arein chronicled 1only hr. 37by min.the negotiators’ diaries. 47, (Who is America and MICHAEL GWYNETH PALTROW, 46. nominated fi lm or TV program. Unlike Language: English“Best” Running Awards: Time: Film and TV DOUGLAS, 74, (The Kominsky Meth- The best musical or comedy series a the Oscars, Golden Globes are given The Globes for best fi lm and the best TV The Good Place od) vie for the Globe for best actor nominees include MICHAEL for excellence in TV, as well as in fi lm. show are given to the show’s principal in a comedy. The varied characters* Special Matinee at Bat Yam Temple of the Islands,fantasy series created by u Film Categories , 22, producers, of whom there are many. Local Organization news Cohen plays frequently spoof real-life SCHUR, 43 (whose father was Jewish); , co-created TIMOTHÉE CHALAMET 2050 PeriwinkleMy practice Way, is Sanibel to note ifIsland a Jewish direc- politicians, like former VP Dick Cheney. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel pieces once with tongs halfway (Beautiful Boy) is up for the RACHELbest sup- tor or writer/creator is associated with Douglas stars as Sandy Kominsky, an by AMY SHERMAN-PALLADINO, created through cooking. porting actor Globe, and that film or TV program. Two films L.A. acting coach. ALISON 52; and The2019 Kominsky Method Life-Enriching Information  Take the chicken out of the oven WEISZ, 48, (The Favourite) is a best nominated for best drama fi lm were Two Jewish actresses, BlacKkKlansmanL'CHAYIM JAUARYby CHUCK LORRE, 66. and let it cool slightly. Use a sharp supporting fi lm actress nominee. Cha- DEBRA MESS- co-written by Jews: BRIE, 35, (Glow) and The nominees for best mini-series knife to slice the meat into small, lamet’s role was based on the real-life (CHARLIEJewish WACHTEL Federation ofand Lee ADAVID Star and is Charlotte Counties A Very English , now 36, who long battled ING, 50, (Will Grace) compete for or TV movie include u thin shawarma-like pieces. NIK SHEFF RABINOWITZ, both 31) and Jewish Federation updates best actress, TV comedy. Scandal, a British series shown on STEPHEN  Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a skillet on the drug addiction. Weisz played Lady Thursday, JanuaryBorn ( ERIC17 ROTHat 7:15, 73). Also: p.m.a best ALAN ARKIN, 84, who plays the Spider-Man: Amazon. It was directed by competes stovetop over medium. Pour half ofSarah Churchill. Sarah’s friendship with A BAGanimated OF fi MARBLESlm nominee, Scandal Each month, readers of L’CHAYIM get news and updates the chicken into the skilletOUR and sauté FEDERATION title character’s agent and bestThis friendnet heartwarming eno adaptation of Joseph nC Joff o’s enduring nC memoirFREARS tells the, 77, story a Brit. , which was Queen Anne of England (1665-1714) Into the Spider Verse, was co-written by in The Kominsky Method, is up for best with Escape at Dannemora , 53, and for 3-4 minutes, until the smallest was historically important. Honorable of the Nazi occupationRODNEY through ROTHMAN the eyes of, 45ish.the two youngJOE Jewish boys. De- BEN STILLER supporting actor. He competes withthusy Jnuy t noon directed by , 64, and pieces of chicken turn brown and mention: Adam Driver, who isn’t Jew- spite their naiveté, Thetheir Americansfather knows, thatcreated their bybest chance to escape the NaziJERRY STAHL HENRY WINKLER, 73, Barryroundup. the is Community to fl ee on their own ee to Vichy, ynoue France, where their co-writtenolder brothers by crisp. Season with additional salt ish, got a supporting actor nomination WEISBERG, 52, is up for best series, , 68. Stahl wrote Senior Lunch BunchALE update BORSTEIN, 47,The whohave Marvel- plays found safe haven. Always one false move from tragedy, theseMICHAEL tenacious TOLKIN u and pepper to taste, if desired. for playing a Jewish police offi munitycer in partner Jason’s Deli. in oidrama. It competessoni with Ct the new Ama- eto wy ot yes Community Calendar By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach, and Melissa & Food McCar- Pantrythe Coordinator title character’s agent in children survive on courage, ingenuity and more than a bit of cunninga memoir as theyabout being a drug-addicted  Remove the cooked chicken fromecember’s BlacKkKlansman senior luncheon An enormous thank you, is to nominated all of for a best zon series, Homecoming, which is based ous Mrs. Maisel make their precarious y ony way through Jnuy FranceELI hoping HOROW- to to reunite withwriter their which fam- was turned into the dra- on all Jewish-related local events including the Jewish the skillet. Heat another 1 tbsp oftook oilthy, place who during isn’t Jewish, Hanukkah is up for athe lead volunteers who work before, dur- on a podcast written by Permanent Midnight supporting actress Globe. ily. MoreJoi than Cohen anything, t it’s MICAHtheir brotherly BLOOMBERG bond that o getsoioheneo themmatic through 1998 their fi lm, and sauté the remaining chicken andin actress I was Globedetermined for playing that ev- the lateing writer and after the lunch to make sure ITZ, 41 and 1 hr. 53 min.and talkative people, well, they talk! Program notes , who was Jewish, in Finally, PATRICIA ARQUETTEordeals. in which Stiller starred. That fi lm, and the same way. Serve warm.D LEE ISRAEL everyone is tended to and taken care Language: French40ish. Running These two Time: guys are also heavilyThe lunches are a great place to meet eryone have latkes. I’d like to thank 50, (Escape at Dannemora) whosemonthly late Federation lunches as having getting clean for good, saved Stahl’s life Can You Ever Forgive Me. of. If you’d like to volunteer by driving involvedsimcha in the, a celebration.TV series. Thesenew TV people, be in community, have a Federation volunteersand Suzanne Karen Orkin Whit- mother was Jewish, is up for bestSponsoredthe ac- feeling by ofSara a and Brian KriviskyPose, an FX drama and career. MARK RONSON, 33, is nomi-a senior, baking a dessert, or helping series compete with nosh and learn a little something. man for joining tress, mini-series/TV movie. Newcomers are easilykibbitz included up a intostorm u nated for co-writing a best song withnomi- set-up or clean-up, please call me series that explores several New York Holocaust Museum news me in makingA Star is Born. Honorable mention: Rachel Brosna-the circle, regulars Film Festival, Jewish author programs, holiday celebra- nee: “Shallow” from at 239.481.4449 x2. City sub-cultures as they existed in the over 300 latkes. han, who isn’t Jewish, got a leadwith actress each other, shy people open up, Nominated for best original score areI continue to describe the free After a few hours,, 33, ( First Man) nomination for playing the Jewish title JUSTIN HURWITZ , 59, (Mary we were oily and Tuesday, January 22 at 7:15 p.m. and MARC SHAIMAN VIP smelly and we THE SAMUEL PROJECTtFest as a had a lot of fun. Eli gets to know his grandfather Samuel forn thec fie rst timeA rwhen he makes him E Parking the subject of an animatedp art eprojectri fore school. With dreams of becomings & FRE u The only com- Ex ive VIP Perk kend! tions, concerts, food festivals, book study groups, timely ELIMINATE YOUR PAIN a professional artist, Eli discovers that his Jewishe grandpa, a San Diego dry e Candle Lighting Times plaint I heard dur- Rec ALL we  Jodi Cohen cleaner, was heroically saved from Nazi capture in Germany by a young wom- 1 hr. 32 min. ing the lunch was RESTORE that the latkes were YOUR MOBILITY an when he was a boy. too small. Sue me! Language: English Running Time: & 3 Temple Beth El graciously wel- ary 2 REGAIN YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE Febru comed us and we were delighted to be NIGHT lectures, mah jongg and much more. They also get up- welcomed by Rabbi Nicole Luna and ENING OP u 6pm Business Directory her one-year-old daughter Iris. Cantor Febr. uary 1, Richard BessmanAll accompaniedphysical ustherapy on is not the same… y Street rive & Hendr piano as we sang Hanukkah songs. 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wicz, • You will always receive the Artist Gail Markie Ceramics oisseurs

personalized care you deserve ing of art conn u $ er is gath VIP. s in th ing a 25 e art of be Israel updates h 1 ort t efits on Supp e ben ers ll th WE CORDIALLY INVITE YOU TO OUR er p njoy a p you as you e • Highly skilled and licensed therapists just like t ISS y, February 1s DON’T M Night, Frida t on Opening glorious sunse ST b Tent t and munity news, the community calendar, candle lighting E BIGGE VIP Clu town waterfron • Relaxed, friendly and encouraging atmosphere TH king the down e restaurants ENT Overloo vres from 8 fin QUEEN ESTHER ART EV et hors d'oeu akers Band ! – Gourm Silver Sne HE YEAR eer / Music by • Therapist-owned private practice OF T AND YOU THOUGHT– Wine and B PURIM VIP Party is us artists abulo 70 f r – & 3rd tdoo 2nd an ou ruary WAS JUST FOR KIDS... , Feb u ay nd MASQUERADE BALL ent - & Su • Best of Southwest Florida recipient d ev rday front Photos of recent events tente Satu water t n n ine! VIP Club Te g the downtow rain or sh ing overlookin our day Garden sett ones to start y coffee and sc k Bar times, and a business directory. – Mimosas, fternoon Snac nch / A ialty lu “We invest ourselves personally in every patient’s VIP Experience Catered spec by: – re all day 03.16.2019 Sponsored er and mo – Wine, be

SAVE THE DATE THE SAVE progress and goals. This is all part of having a artists – 215 fabulous ll weekend! true commitment and passion for what we do.” VIP parking a u Easy reserved and much more EDERATION F UPCOMING 2019 THE RESULTS YOU WANT. THE CARE YOU DESERVE. EVENTS yers.com tFestFortM Thomas S. Zeller, DPT & Associates TODAY! Ar UR TICKETS www.YourBestTherapy.com RESERVE YO ent – Jewish Film Festival, Regal  January 2019 / 5779 Fort Myers 239-432-0556ning Day Ev Vol. 41, No. 5 CHAYIMl Ope ilm Festiva L’ 19 Jewish F VIP Sponsor Reception. JAN. 13 20 Cape Coral 239-772-2363 Cinemas at Bell Towers Special Guest: Author Beverly Gray, “Seduced by The event, held at FineMark Bank, included a lively Q&A session Mrs. Robinson”. Feature film, “The Graduate”. Special www.JewishFederationLCC.org Sponsorship Opportunities Available. Festival - Showings are Tuesdays & Thursdays. litical process, to our values and to our Jewish Film JAN. 15 - We are all on the same teaminterests as Americans. By Brian Simon, Federation Presidentand one from the far left – on a tour In the question-and-answer ses- ne t e B. 12 of Israel. He wanted to demonstrate to The exclusive way to reach the Jewish FE n ate ovember I attended the sion after the presentation, I asked Mr. 5 Our Community both of his imaginary guests how Israel J Library - fiPresidents rst AIPAC Day Southwest Fun Day Florida an- Stephens to speak more about the im- FEB. 18 P lives its values and how those values 10 Jewish Interest nual event at the Hyatthor Coconut- “TBD” Free and open to the community. portance of bipartisanship. He said if e Aut I ok; Skype th are also American values – respect for ePoint. Bo I attended not as a representa- he had the power to vet political candi- 16 Jewish Film Festival Read th the rule of law, care for the less fortu- FEB. 20 tive of Federation but as someone who dates, he would ask each of them two was interested to nate and technology for defense (and 20 Marketplace A light dairy dinner will be served. questions: 1) When was the last time or Event – Alyson Richman,hear theLakes featured Library he meant defense from enemy attacks, 6 Auth you changed your mind about an im- 21 Israel & theFE JewishB. 2 World speaker, Bret Ste- not merely fi repower for the sake of h - Program and SpeakerThe TBD New portant subject; and 2) When was the 23 Commentary Lion of Juda phens of military might). R. 5 Ball last time you crossed the aisle to vote MA Yorkasq Timesuerad.e He pointed out that Israel is the 24 From the Bimah ults Only) M n Esther (Ad Inside the con- on an issue? . 16 Quee only country in its region to refl ect I’ll share one last observation. At 25 CommunityM ADirectoryR ference room, I the best values of the left – respect for the start of the program, they played 26 Focus on Youth thor Event - B.A. Shapiro, noticed“ The Collector’s a slide on Apprentice”the environment, respect for women’s Community in Lee and Charlotte counties. R. 28 Au the national anthem of Israel and then MA the projector with rights and the rights of the LGBTQ 28 Organizations of the US. The attendees stood atten- The Alliance for the Arts a cartoon picture community. He also noted, for those on  Brian tively for “Hatikvah.” When the “Star 30 Temple News y - Pre-Pesach Partyof an elephant and the right, that the Israeli economy im- PJ Librar Simon Spangled Banner” came on, people put APR. 14 proved signifi cantly in the 1990s after a donkey with boxing gloves on, star- their hands over their hearts and sang oah Event it absorbed thousands of immigrants Yom HaSingh at each other, trunk-to-snout, ready along. The lesson I took from this was, R. 28 from the former Soviet Union. Israel, AP to fi ght. The caption said, “AIPAC is that even at an event to celebrate Israel, ting he said, prioritizes its values before its Annual Ma e bipartisane organization. Leave your the attendees demonstrated their pri- 8 interests. And the country is better for MAY gloves at the door.” mary allegiance to the United States. Later in the evening, Mark Sachs, it. Stephens said America’s interests We are all on the same team. We’re are best served by reliable allies on the AIPAC’s North and Central Florida allowed our disagreements, but we far edges of the world. Area Director, gave a stirring talk about I have to tell you, bipartisanship is have to be able to distinguish between Federation’s Senior Lunch the dangers of politicization – turning a political opponent and an enemy. an issue close to my heart. I did not ex- every issue into a battle between “us” Political opponents argue over power. Bunch update LOW! pect to hear it championed so eloquent- For more information and “them.”FO HeTO trumpeted FOL AIPAC’s Enemies seek the destruction of the ORE IN ly. My concern for the U.S. is that both UNED. M overwhelming bipartisan support for other side. Israel understands the dif- STAY T the left and the right are demonizing bills to support Israel. ference. When Bret Stephens took the stage, their political opponents, treating them as enemies. This is harmful to our po- he imagined taking a pair of American politicians – one from the far right or to place an ad in L’CHAYIM: In Memoriam: Lorie Mayer and Sabine van Dam Jewish Film Festival of Southwest Florida —Sunday, January, 13th Opening Day Event

4:00 P.M. Regal Belltower Stadium 20 -518, Fort Myers FL 33907 13499 US 41, Suite E , 2:00 P.M. at Society VIP Sponsor Reception Introduction to the film and Q & A with Exclusive * Seduced by Mrs. Beverly Gray , author of Call: Jim Lewin at 239.634.6923 Robinson. The book brings to light ’s influence on the future of When the Graduate The Graduate Local re ghter in Israel for premiered in 1967, its filmmaking and explores how it rocked the Emergency Volunteer Project filmmakers had modest late-sixties world, reflecting and changing expectations for a small, the era’s views of sex, work and marriage. sexy adaptation of an Ms. Gray spent nearly a decade in the film obscure first novel by an -year-old. industry as a story editorentertainment and has covered industry the for eccentric 24 The Hollywood Reporter. The film was a monster hit, Email: [email protected] with an extended run in *Special Meet & Greet for Sponsors theaters and To purchase tickets, visit: 7 Academy Award nominations. www.jewishfederationlcc.org/JFF2019

To become a sponsor or for more information, please contact Friendly faces at Temple Judea Debbie Sanford 239.481.4449, ext. 4 or [email protected] Religious School L’CHAYIM VISIT THE FEDERATION ONLINE AT: Website: Visit the page at NONPROFIT ORG POSTMASTER: U.S. POSTAGE 9701 Commerce Center Court DATED RELIGIOUS PAID Fort Myers, Florida 33908 NEWS ITEMS. FT. MYERS, FL TIME SENSITIVE– PERMIT NO. 175 PLEASE EXPEDITE! www. JewishFederationLCC.org

DELIVER TO CURRENT RESIDENT OR www.JewishFederationLCC.org social service philanthropy culture L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 19 Spanish wines…they speak our language Amid tension along northern border, FIDF delivers personal care packages to Israeli soldiers etulla, Israel, December Friends of the Israel Defense Forces 7, when FIDF supplied sweet packages Hanukkah) – to IDF units throughout 18 – Israel Defense Forces (FIDF). containing chocolate and other treats to Israel as part of the FIDF Adopt-A-Bat- M(IDF) soldiers stationed along With IDF’s Operation Northern more than 600 soldiers participating in talion and Adopt-A-Brigade Programs. Israel’s northern border – the scene of Shield ongoing, FIDF’s team in Israel the border operation. About Friends of the Israel Defense heightened tension in recent weeks – on brought personal care packages to the Earlier this month, during Hanuk- Forces (FIDF) December 14 received 200 packages of brave men and women of the IDF kah, FIDF’s team brought messages of FIDF was established in 1981 by a personal care products on their bases, serving near the Lebanon border. This hope and light – and sufganiyot (jelly- group of Holocaust survivors as a 501(c) thanks to continuing support from the follows another delivery on December filled doughnuts traditionally eaten on (3) not-for-profit organization with the mission of offering educational, cultural, recreational and social pro- grams and facilities that provide hope, purpose and life-changing support for the soldiers who protect Israel and Jews worldwide. Today, FIDF has more than 150,000 loyal supporters and 20 chap- ters throughout the United States and Panama. FIDF proudly supports IDF soldiers, families of fallen soldiers, and wounded veterans through a variety of innovative programs that reinforce the vital bond between the communities in the United States, the soldiers of the IDF and the State of Israel. For more IDF soldiers stationed along Israel’s northern border receiving sweet packages on the sixth night of Hanukkah information, visit www.fidf.org. Our Cuba trip By Helene Glocer ast summer, as we planned Many Jews left Cuba after the rev- our trip to Cuba, many of our olution, but they tell us that their num- Lfriends were eager to tell us of bers are now growing, as they have their experiences visiting the island. A many converts. few people mentioned that there is a David Prinstein, President of the vibrant Jewish community in Havana Patronato, took the time to tell us how and a Jewish presence throughout the they work with the American Jewish island. They have the equivalent of a Joint Distribution Committee to get Jewish Federation, called the Patro- supplies which they distribute to Jews nato, which supports Jews all over throughout Cuba. However, despite the Cuba, an Ashkenazi synagogue called generous support of the JDC, they still Templo Beth Shalom, and a Sephardic have a great need for basic items. synagogue called Centro Sefaradi Ye- Before traveling to Havana, I called huda Ha Levi de Cuba. to ask what we could bring them. The We received a warm welcome list was long. Baby Tylenol, children’s from the staff at the Centro Sefaradi cough medicine, vitamins, ibuprofen, and they were eager to tell us about eye drops, sun screen, adult diapers their activities. To our surprise, there and, of course, money. We were told was a gym as you entered the build- not to try to bring suitcases full of stuff, Look Like You Spent A Lot! ing. The staff explained that it was to but rather backpacks or large purses. help the seniors with their physical There was no problem going through therapy. Many seniors also participate customs and the staff at the Patronato in a crafts program, making products were very grateful for the donations. to sell in order to support the program. I am writing this not to start any They are then given lunch before going kind of organized giving, but rather to COMPANY STORE home. encourage anyone traveling to Havana Everyone we spoke to insisted that to bring some of those items the Jew- there is no anti-Semitism in Cuba. For ish community needs so badly and to many years, they were not able to prac- visit the Jewish community there. You tice their religion. However, that was can find all of the addresses and con- true for all religions and the Jews were tact information on the web. You won’t not singled out. They are now allowed regret it. to worship freely.

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*Subject to monthly maintenance fee. Terms and Conditions of the Card Agreement are set forth at MiromarOutlets.com. Send an email to [email protected]. Copyright © 2019, Miromar Development Corporation. Miromar Outlets is a registered service mark of Miromar Development Corporation. Read the current and previous editions of L’CHAYIM online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 20 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties MARKETPLACE

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lation is only 10%. In fact, the number year’s figure, according to data coordi- of female Arab students in higher edu- nated with Nefesh B’Nefesh. BRIEFS cation has doubled since the beginning As many as 2,660 made Aliyah of 2000. As a result, women in Arab from France, a 25% decline. Else- ISRAEL’S POPULATION gist and senior lecturer at Ruppin Col- society are much more educated than where, 660 immigrants came from 8.972 MILLION ON EVE lege. Moreover, “We hear that if we men. Brazil and 330 arrived from the United OF 2019 don’t have enough citizens, we don’t Female students at Arab high Kingdom, both decreases of 4%. The have enough soldiers. And people are On December 31, the population of Is- schools comprise 52% of students 330 new immigrants from Argentina in acting on those messages [whether] rael was 8.972 million, the Central Bu- studying computer programming and 2018 marked a 17% rise from last year, they are aware they are or not.” reau of Statistics reported. sciences, 55% in electronics, 59% in and the 320 from South Africa repre- She points to the immigrants who This number includes 6.668 mil- mathematics and 70% in chemistry. sented a 2% increase. came to Israel from the former Soviet lion Jews (74.3%), 1.878 million Arabs The employment rate of Arab women “I welcome this year’s increase in Union. Those who came as adults usu- (20.9%) and 426,000 “others” (4.8%). jumped from 35% to 40% in the past the number of immigrants to Israel,” ally had one child. By contrast, those 185,000 babies were born during year alone. (Meirav Arlosoroff, The- said Jewish Agency Chairman of the who came as teenagers and absorbed the year (74.4% Jews, 22.8% Arabs, Marker) Executive Isaac Herzog. “Every Jew the societal message have gone on to and 2.8% others). (Globes) who comes to Israel and establishes have two to three children. (Dina Kraft, JEWISH AGENCY FIGURES a home here completes another piece ISRAELI EXPORTS AT Christian Science Monitor) REVEAL 5% RISE IN of the wonderful mosaic of the Jew- RECORD $110 BILLION ALIYAH DURING 2018, ish people in their historic homeland. ISRAEL RANKS AS After 70 years of the state’s indepen- IN 2018 WORLD’S THIRD MOST INCLUDING 45% Israeli exports hit a record high of $110 INCREASE FROM RUSSIA dence and the tremendous number of billion in 2018, up 8% from $103 bil- EDUCATED COUNTRY olim who have already made it to Is- Israel is the third most educated coun- Jerusalem, December 27, 2018 — lion in 2017. rael, the potential for even greater Ali- try, according to 2017 data compiled The Jewish Agency for Israel today The export of high-tech services yah remains significant, and The Jew- by the Organization for Economic Co- published its official year-end data on reached $51 billion, a 14% increase. ish Agency will continue to work to operation and Development (OECD). Aliyah during 2018. According to the Exports to Asia grew by 20% in achieve that goal.” OECD calculated the percentage of figures, more than 29,600 people im- 2018, reaching $10 billion. (Eran Bar- (The Jewish Agency emphasizes each country’s population between the migrated to Israel from around the Tal, Israel Hayom) that the figures released today comprise ages of 25 and 64 who have completed world this year, compared with 28,220 new immigrants in 2017, a 5% increase the official statistics on Aliyah during RECORD 4 MILLION a two- or four-year degree beyond high 2018 through the end of November as school – including both academic and year over year. TOURISTS VISIT ISRAEL The country with the largest num- well as the temporary data through De- vocational programs. cember, in addition to estimates of the IN 2018 The data shows that 50.9% of Is- ber of olim (immigrants to Israel) in Israel expects a record-breaking 4 mil- expected arrival of more immigrants in raelis in the target age bracket have a 2018 was Russia, with approximately lion tourists by the end of 2018. the remaining days of this month.) higher-education degree. The report 10,500 immigrants, representing a 45% There were 13% more tourist en- noted that Jewish Israelis enter col- increase from last year. Also within the ISRAEL’S VERSION tries in 2018 than in 2017 and 38% lege at a later age than most Western former Soviet Union, more than 6,500 more than in 2016. OF DEMOCRACY counterparts because most serve in the people made Aliyah from Ukraine, a 61% of tourists were Christians 9% decrease from 2017. IS IN GOOD HEALTH military for at least two years after high th and 22% were Jews. 40% had visited Israel now ranks 30 out of 167 coun- school. A total of 3,550 individuals im- Israel before. tries in the Economist Intelligence The United States came in at No. migrated to Israel from North Amer- There were 813,500 tourists 5, with only 46.4% of its population in ica (U.S. and Canada), similar to last continued on next page from the U.S., 320,000 from France, the target age group having completed 303,200 from Russia, 259,500 from a higher-education program – even Germany, 200,000 from Britain and though half of the world’s top-ranking 100,000 from China. (Yvette J. Deane, universities are American. Jerusalem Post) South Korea came in at No. 4, with ISRAEL BOOMS WITH 47.7% having completed a higher- education program, but it tops the list BABIES AS DEVELOPED of most educated people aged 25-34 WORLD’S BIRTH RATES (66.6%). PLUMMET Japan is No. 2 (51.4%) and the Israel is having a sustained baby boom, most educated country in the world is and now has the highest per capita rate Canada (56.7%) – although Canada of population growth in the developed faces an overeducation, underemploy- world, experts say. Families here have ment problem. (Abigail Klein Leich- an average of 3.1 children, compared man, Israel21c) with 1.7 in other developed countries. In the country’s Jewish sector there THE SOCIAL REVOLUTION is a lingering post-Holocaust impera- OF ARAB WOMEN IN tive to replace the six million who were ISRAEL murdered. Driving this focus, argues The status of Arab women in Israel is Specializing in sociologist Orna Donath, “is the col- improving significantly. Hadas Fuchs, outpatient hip and lective fear of annihilation. It contin- a researcher at the Taub Institute, pub- knee replacement ues to haunt us, and children are seen lished a study in 2018 on the integra- as symbolizing a continuance of life, of tion of Arab women in the labor mar- survival.” Even among secular Jews, ket in Israel. The most striking detail of three children is the norm. her research relates to a revolution in “In America you are an individual the education of Arab women: 15% of who is not necessarily going to live students in higher education are Arab close to your parents. But in Israel, the women, even though the proportion of whole basis of society is familial,” says Arab women among the general popu- Dr. Elly Teman, a medical anthropolo- L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 22 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

Iranian interests only. of Israel’s Central Bureau of Statis- with 26% of Americans, accord- ‹‹ Its actions beyond the international tics, Prof. Roberto Bachi, projected ing to the Joshua Project. As in the BRIEFS border – inside Israeli territory – 2.3 million Jews in Israel in 2001. In U.S., many evangelical and Pente- BRIEFS justify a sharp Israeli response that 2018 there are seven million Jews in costal Christians instinctively sup- continued from previous page will cause harm to Lebanon and its Israel. port Israel. Unit’s annual survey of national de- citizens. In 2000, the CBS projected a de- ‹‹ The rise of evangelical and Pente-better cater to the needs of Chinese mocracies. It is sandwiched between ‹‹ Any attempt to differentiate be- cline in the Jewish fertility rate from costal Christian support for Juda-tourists, such as inviting Chinese chefs France and Belgium. tween the military wing and the 2.6 births per woman to 2.4 in 2025. ism and Israel in much of the worldto teach how to cook the Chinese cui- The Economist calls these “flawed political wing of Hizbullah is ridic- However, by 2017, the Jewish fertility is a heartening sign. sine. democracies,” a designation that also ulous. Does anyone really believe rate had risen to 3.16, and 76.5% of all ‹‹ Based on a literal approach to the Direct flights between China and includes the United States. that a handful of rebellious Hiz- Israeli births were Jewish, compared to Bible and a covenantal theologyIsrael further increased in frequency in Since 2009, Israel has moved up bullah terrorists decided indepen- 69% in 1995. The rise of Jewish fer- that attributes a continuing reli-2018, with now dozens of weekly di- seven places in the Economist Intelli- dently to dig a complex system of tility reflects enhanced optimism, pa- gious significance to the Jewishrect flights between the two countries. gence Unit’s ranking of democracies. tunnels which demanded so many triotism, attachment to roots, and com- people and their state, these two(Keren Setton, Xinhua - China) This is something to be proud of. resources? munal responsibility among Israel’s rapidly spreading forms of Protes-ISRAELI-JAPANESE Israel is not the most purely democratic ‹‹ It is amazing to see how the Eu- secular population. tant Christianity tend to promote nation in the world, and it never will ropeans have confirmed the ex- In 2018 there are 1.85 million a climate of respect for individualFRIENDSHIP: A POTENTIAL be. History, ideology and security chal- istence of the tunnels and have Arabs in Judea and Samaria (West Jews as well as support for Zion-YET TO BE REALIZED lenges preclude that. But the hybrid de- expressed their support of Israel’s Bank) – and not 3 million as claimed ism. Although relations between Jerusalem mocracy it does practice is very much right to destroy them, yet they re- by the Palestinians – 1.6 million Israeli ‹‹ Guatemala, which is now aboutand Tokyo have improved significantly alive and well. (Zev Chafets, Bloom- fuse to blame Hizbullah. UNIFIL Muslim Arabs, 130,000 Israeli Druze, 40% Protestant, opened an embas-since the end of Japan’s participation berg) has confirmed the existence of a 130,000 Israeli Christian Arabs and sy in Jerusalem two days after thein the Arab League boycott, the two countries have yet to develop a close THE DISCOVERY OF tunnel, but it has refrained from as- seven million Jews. This constitutes U.S. did. (Walter Russell Mead, serting that Hizbullah has thereby a 65.5% Jewish majority in the com- Wall Street Journal) relationship to the extent that Israel has HIZBULLAH’S INVASION significantly violated Israel’s sov- bined area of pre-1967 Israel, Judea with its Western allies and even China. TUNNELS ereignty. (Brig.-Gen. (res.) Yossi and Samaria. (Amb. Yoram Ettinger, ANCIENT JERUSALEM Because of Jerusalem’s improved ‹‹ The discovery of Hizbullah’s inva- Kuperwasser, Jerusalem Center for Jewish Political Studies Review) ATTRACTS GROWING relations with the Arab states and Ja- sion tunnels has removed a critical Public Affairs) CHINESE TOURISM pan’s declining reliance on Middle component of its and Iran’s plan EVANGELICAL VOTERS Jerusalem has seen growing tourism byEastern oil supplies, Tokyo will not for war against Israel. The dis- NO ARAB DEMOGRAPHIC THROW THEIR SUPPORT Chinese tourists in recent years. need to be as cautious in improving po- covery robbed them of the ability TIME BOMB TO A PRO-ISRAEL Doron Spielman, vice president oflitical relations with Jerusalem or fear to surprise Israel through an of- Contrary to conventional wisdom, the the City of David Foundation in Jeru-pressure from its other Middle Eastern fensive (under)ground assault into PRESIDENT - IN BRAZIL partners. Jewish state is not facing an Arab de- ‹‹ Shortly after Jair Bolsonaro’s vic- salem’s Old City, said Chinese people Israeli territory, which was to be a As geopolitical obstacles from oth- mographic time bomb. It benefits from tory in the Brazilian presidential love coming here and seeing a wall central element in challenging the er Middle Eastern countries decline in a robust Jewish demographic tailwind election, he said he would follow which was built by Jews at the same country’s security. significance and the economic benefits of births and net immigration. From through on his campaign promise time as the Great Wall of China. ‹‹ In addition, it has again embar- 1995 to 2017, the number of Israeli to move Brazil’s embassy in Israel The City of David park has trans- rassed Iran because it exhibits Is- Jewish births surged by 74%, from from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. lated its popular nighttime sound and rael’s superior level of intelligence 80,400 to 140,000, while the number ‹‹ Bolsonaro – himself a Catholic but light show into Mandarin, so that bib- once more, following the exposure of Israeli Arab births grew by 19%, married to an evangelical Protes- lical characters now speak Chinese to of Iran’s nuclear archive, which from 36,000 to 43,000. Moreover, the tant pastor – owes his political suc- tell the ancient story on the walls of was brought to Israel. trend of Israeli emigration has slowed cess in large part to support from Jerusalem’s Old City. ‹‹ Lebanon and the international are- down. evangelical voters. “There aren’t too many places in na need to understand that Hizbul- In 1898, Simon Dubnov, a lead- ‹‹ As recently as the 1970s, Brazil was the world that the Chinese people can lah, as an Iranian proxy, is not the ing Jewish historian and demographer, almost uniformly Catholic. But the come and find another group of people “shield of Lebanon,” but is a huge projected 500,000 Jews in the Land largest country in Latin America is that go back thousands of years as they danger to that country. Hizbullah is of Israel by 1998, defining Theodor today nearly as evangelical as the do,” Spielman stressed. developing strong offensive capa- Herzl’s Zionist vision as “messianic U.S.: 25% of Brazilians identify as Israel has launched initiatives to bilities against Israel from within wishful thinking.” In 1944, the founder evangelical Christians, compared Lebanese civilian facilities to serve continued on next page ELIMINATE YOUR PAIN RESTORE YOUR MOBILITY REGAIN YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE When it comes to memory care All physical therapy is not the same… for your loved one, a personalized Thank you for letting us show you approach is everything. what sets us apart from the rest! At The Cottage at Cypress Cove, our award-winning design features:

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Iraq, 55,000 from Yemen, 34,000 from ian official Hanan Ashrawi about Jews costal Christians instinctively sup- (Shaun Ho, Institute for Contemporary Turkey, 20,000 from Lebanon and from Arab lands who had moved to continued from previous page port Israel. Affairs - Jerusalem Center for Public 18,000 from Syria.” Israel as a result of persecution. ‹‹ The rise of evangelical and Pente-better cater to the needs of Chinese Affairs) Jews had first settled in what be- Ashrawi responded, “They can’t be costal Christian support for Juda-tourists, such as inviting Chinese chefs came Arab lands following the Baby- refugees in their own homeland.” She ism and Israel in much of the worldto teach how to cook the Chinese cui- MIDDLE EAST’S JEWS lonian conquest of the Kingdom of refused to answer how Palestinians is a heartening sign. sine. WERE VICTIMS OF Judea, more than 2,500 years ago, and could be considered refugees in what ‹‹ Based on a literal approach to the Direct flights between China and their communities predated Islam by she calls the State of Palestine. (But at Israel further increased in frequency in ETHNIC CLEANSING Bible and a covenantal theology I live in an area of Jerusalem’s Kata- 1,000 years. Today, only 4,000 Jews least she acknowledged Israel as the 2018, with now dozens of weekly di- that attributes a continuing reli- monim neighborhood fondly referred remain in Arab countries. In other Jewish homeland.) (Liat Collins, Jeru- rect flights between the two countries. gious significance to the Jewish to as the “Kurdish enclave” thanks to words, the Jews are the victims of salem Post) (Keren Setton, Xinhua - China) people and their state, these two the Kurdish and Iraqi Jews who com- rapidly spreading forms of Protes-ISRAELI-JAPANESE pose the bulk of the local population. tant Christianity tend to promote FRIENDSHIP: A POTENTIAL Further down the road is a large pocket a climate of respect for individual of Moroccan and Tunisian Jewish fam- Jews as well as support for Zion-YET TO BE REALIZED ilies. Anyone who thinks that Israel is ism. Although relations between Jerusalem some kind of Yiddish-dominated cul- ‹‹ Guatemala, which is now aboutand Tokyo have improved significantly ture planted in the Middle East is in 40% Protestant, opened an embas-since the end of Japan’s participation for a surprise. The descendants of Jews sy in Jerusalem two days after thein the Arab League boycott, the two from Arab lands now make up more countries have yet to develop a close U.S. did. (Walter Russell Mead, than 50% of the Jewish Israeli popula- Wall Street Journal) relationship to the extent that Israel has tion. with its Western allies and even China. After the creation of the state in Ronny S Taschner DDS ANCIENT JERUSALEM Because of Jerusalem’s improved 1948, more than 800,000 Jews were Active Member of the American Academy of Periodontology ATTRACTS GROWING relations with the Arab states and Ja- expelled from Arab lands and came to pan’s declining reliance on Middle CHINESE TOURISM Israel (compared to 711,000 Palestin- Jennifer Taschner DDS MMSc Jerusalem has seen growing tourism byEastern oil supplies, Tokyo will not ian refugees). The Arab world took re- need to be as cautious in improving po- Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology Chinese tourists in recent years. venge on the Jews living among them Doron Spielman, vice president of litical relations with Jerusalem or fear with devastating riots and anti-Jewish the City of David Foundation in Jeru-pressure from its other Middle Eastern measures. According to the Israeli salem’s Old City, said Chinese peoplepartners. Foreign Ministry, “259,000 Jews fled love coming here and seeing a wall As geopolitical obstacles from oth- from Morocco, 140,000 from Algeria, which was built by Jews at the sameer Middle Eastern countries decline in 100,000 from Tunisia, 75,000 from time as the Great Wall of China. significance and the economic benefits The City of David park has trans- lated its popular nighttime sound and light show into Mandarin, so that bib- For daily news stories related lical characters now speak Chinese to tell the ancient story on the walls of Jerusalem’s Old City. to Israel & the Jewish world, “There aren’t too many places in the world that the Chinese people can 1645 Medical Lane, Fort Myers, FL come and find another group of people visit the Federation’s website that go back thousands of years as they Phone 239-936-0635 do,” Spielman stressed. Visit Our Website www.taschnerperio.com Israel has launched initiatives to at JewishFederationLCC.org.

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Cypress Cove at HealthPark Florida is a non-profit organization sponsored by Lee Healthcare Resources, a support organization to Lee Health. AL9630 Located on a beautiful 48-acre campus, Cypress Cove offers a full complement of quality living options committed to the health and well-being of its residents. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 24 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties COMMENTARY / FROM THE BIMAH

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. Our lives are made to fly and return to their Source here is a wonderful teaching So, what I am asking you today is with Open Arms.” He suggested that ond heart attack. Both butterflies, and that life is like a butterfly. If you to begin a conversation. Medical Eth- we all should appreciate the morning our lives, are made to fly and return to Thold your life too tightly, you ics, and especially Jewish Medical breeze, the smiles of our friends and their Source. will crush it. And if you hold your life Ethics, should be important to each neighbors, and the love of those we are Rabbi Dr. Michael J. Schorin, MAPC, too loosely, it will slip away. What a and every one of us. Think about it and close to. But most of all, he reminded BCC is a Chaplain in Lee Health’s dilemma for us! As discuss it with those you love. When us there will always be a time to give Department of Spiritual Services, and much as we love but- is enough, enough? Whether it is our back our lives, as well. Sadly, he did ministers at the Gulf Coast Medical terflies, we need to parents or grandparents, our spouses or just that a few years later, after his sec- Center. allow them to fly and ourselves, or even more tragically, the fly away. No matter lives of our children, each of us may be how beautiful they called upon to make these decisions for A matter of timing may be, we all shrink ourselves and for those who are most as it ever occurred to you that sion. It takes just one breath to say “I from caging them. dear to us. In just a few weeks, the Fort every 24 hours in the natural love you.” It takes less than one ounce  Rabbi And so it is, sim- Myers Board of Rabbis is hosting an state of living you accomplish of food to energize an act of courage. Michael J. ilarly, with our lives. event on Jewish Medical Ethics. Join H Schorin prodigious feats? It just takes a few words to speak a Many of us have us on Sunday, February 3 from 3:00 to Your heart beats commitment. It takes a fraction of our heard that life is the ultimate Jewish 5:00 p.m. at the Federation Building. I 103,689 times. brain cell capacity to think purpose- value. We wish each other a long life promise that we will all have time to Your blood travels fully about social problems. Any of and a happy life. The toast we make get home prior to the beginning of the 163,000,000 miles. these acts can convert this day into the over a glass of schnapps is “L’chayim Super Bowl! You breathe 23,240 greatest day of your life. For, after all, – To Life!” Well, that might make a There are many areas to be dis- times. what is greater than love, what is stron- great song, but it is not quite true. Life cussed: advance directives, power of You eat 3-1/2 lbs. of ger than hope, what is more powerful is a great value but it is not the ultimate attorney decisions plus what Judaism food. than an idea whose time has come? We value. Serving Hashem, or God, is the has to say about all of this. These are  Rabbi You turn in your can experience all of these any day of highest value. Indeed, there are several not easy topics, but they will help you Solomon sleep 25-35 times. our life that we choose to. The impor- instances in our tradition where our sleep better at night, knowing what Agin You speak 4,800 words. tant thing is to realize our potential and lives must be sacrificed if we are asked your loved one’s desires and wishes You exercise 7,000,000 brain cells. then to act upon it. All of it is really a to denigrate God’s Holy Name. might be. Come join in the discussion! If within each of us there is so matter of timing. As more of us come face to face One of the most dynamic rabbis of much potential power, then each of us A great pianist was once ques- th with dying in hospitals, we need to the early 20 century was Rabbi Milton must ask: What am I doing with my tioned by a reporter about the difficulty confront these questions. When is Steinberg (1903-1950). As part of his physical and emotional energy? Am of playing the piano. He replied: “It is enough, enough? Modern medicine rabbinate, he vastly increased the num- I letting it remain idle and unproduc- quite simple. All you have to do is put can do an awful lot to keep someone’s bers and prestige of the Park Avenue tive? Am I discharging it wastefully or the right finger on the right note at the heart beating and lungs breathing, but Synagogue in New York City. And his even harmfully? Or, am I channeling it right time. That’s all.” it can’t make the person jump out of writings were so popular that he often to its greatest possible effect? Rabbi Solomon Agin serves at Temple bed and resume their life. So, in this got asked to deliver talks all around Now, consider this: It just takes one Shalom in Port Charlotte. new period, where medicine can do so the country. No matter how much he heartbeat to perform an act of compas- much, and often heal, we also need to might have enjoyed all of these activi- realize its limitations. ties, his life was difficult and exhaust- If we could keep a butterfly alive ing. After his first heart attack, in 1943, Send updates and changes to the Jewish Directory under glass, would we really want to? he wrote an essay entitled “To Hold below to [email protected].

TEMPLE BETH EL CHABAD OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY REFORM ORTHODOX 16225 Winkler Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 204 E Mckenzie St Unit B, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 Rabbi Nicole Luna Rabbi Simon Jacobson Email: [email protected] Phone: (941) 8333381 Temple educator: Dale Cohen, Ma.Ed., R.J.E Email: [email protected] Preschool director: Jesyca Virnig Web site: www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com President: Governance Committee IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES Services: Saturday at 10 a.m. followed by Email: [email protected] a kiddush Phone: 4330018 • Fax: 4333235 Torah study: Wednesday at 8 p.m. Web site: www.templebethel.com Shabbat services: 7:30 p.m. Friday; Torah study CHABAD LUBAVITCH 9:00 a.m. Saturday; B’nai Mitzah 10:30 a.m. Saturday COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA Religious & Hebrew School: 9:00 a.m.12:30 Sunday REFORM ORTHODOX Judaica Gift Gallery 10868 Metro Parkway, South Fort Myers 5620 Winkler Road Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism (The Southwest Florida Masonic Center) Fort Myers, FL 33919 P.O. Box 07144, Fort Myers, FL 33919 Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz TEMPLE BETH SHALOM Rabbi Bruce Diamond Phone: 4337708 • Fax: 4819109 REFORM ([email protected]) Email: [email protected] 702 S.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33990 Coordinator: Natalie Fulton Web site: www.chabadswf.org Rabbi Devora Buchen Adult Educator: Jessica Evers Services: Friday 5:15 p.m.; Saturday Kabbalah President: Arnie Schwartz Phone: (239) 4666671 class 9 a.m.; Shacharit 10 a.m.; Kiddush at Phone: 7724555 • Fax: 7724625 Email: [email protected] noon Minyan: Monday & Thursday 7:00 a.m. Email: [email protected] Web site: www.fortmyerssynagogue.com Web site: www.templebethshalomcc.org Community Sabbath eve dinner each Friday at 6:30 p.m. CHABAD JEWISH CENTER Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday OF CAPE CORAL Religious School: Thursday 4:00 6:30 p.m. Sabbath eve worship every Friday at 7:30 p.m. Light breakfast and Torah study with the rabbi ORTHODOX Torah study with Rabbi Buchen: Shabbat 10:30 a.m. 1716 Cape Coral Pkwy. W., Cape Coral, FL 33914 Organizations: Brotherhood, Sisterhood, every Saturday morning from 9:30 11:30 a.m. Family Service (1st Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m.) Rabbi Yossi Labkowski TEMPLE JUDEA Phone: 9634770 CONSERVATIVE Email: [email protected] BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS Web site: www.chabadcape.com REFORM 14486 A&W Bulb Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 Rabbi Marc Sack Services: Friday Evening 7:30 p.m. Meets at Sanibel Congregational Church 2050 Saturday morning 9:30 a.m. followed by Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island Email: [email protected] President: Dan Fox Kiddush luncheon Rabbi Stephen L. Fuchs Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. President: Alan Lessack Director of Congregational Learning: Tab Scribner MondayFriday morning 7:00 a.m. Phone: 2395790296 (OctApr) JLI Courses: Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. 7732518862 (MaySept) Preschool Director: Joann Goldman [email protected] Weekly Torah Study: Tuesday evening 7:30 p.m. Email: [email protected] Hebrew School: Sunday 10:00 a.m.12:30 p.m. Cantor: Murray Simon Phone: 4330201 • Fax: 4333371 Web site: www.batyam.org Email: [email protected] Jgirls: Tuesday 6:007:00 p.m. Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday (OctApr) Web site: www.tjswfl.org 7:00 p.m. Friday (MaySept) Services: 6:15 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m. COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Adult Education: Saturday Minyan: 9:00 a.m. Monday  Shalom Life Center Saturday, 9:00 11:30 a.m. (NovApr) Religious School: Sun. 9:30 a.m.noon; Lawrence Dermer, Spiritual Leader 2183433 Jewish Current Events: Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Wed. 4:306 p.m. • AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee): Jacki Waksman (954) 6539053 to 12:15 p.m. (NovApr) Early childhood education: Preschool, MF, ages 18 months5 years; • AJC (American Jewish Committee): Write: P.O. Box 84, Sanibel, FL 33957 Brian Lipton (941) 3654955 Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism “Mommy & Me,” 12 months2 years Affiliated: United Synagogue of Conservative • AntiDefamation League: (561) 9882900 Judaism • B’Nai B’rith International: (941) 3024500 TEMPLE SHALOM CHARLOTTE • Chevra Kadisha: HARBOR AND THE GULF ISLANDS Gene Sipe 8414615 CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS/ • Generations of the Shoah SWFL: 9639347 REFORM • Hadassah Collier/Lee Chapter: 23190 Utica Ave., P.O. Box 494675 ESTERO ORTHODOX Lynn Weiner 5981009 Port Charlotte, FL 339494675 • Hadassah Sharon Chapter (Charlotte County): Rabbi Solomon Agin 24850 Old 41 Road, Suite 20 (in the Bernwood Centre) Odette Port (941) 5051409 President: Gary Wein • Hazak 55+ Chapter: Phone: (941) 6252116 Bonita Springs, FL 341357024 Rabbi Mendy Greenberg Joyce Rosinger 4371566 Email: [email protected] • Humanistic Jewish Havurah: Web site: templeshalomfl.com Phone: 9496900 Web site: www.JewishBonita.com Paula Creed 4958484 Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday • Israel Bonds: Regional Headquarters: (800) 6228017 Religious school: Sunday 10 a.m. Services: Saturday at 10 a.m., followed by • Jewish Community Services: 4814449 Beginning Hebrew: Tuesday 4:15 5:15 p.m. a kiddush • Jewish National Fund: (727) 5365263 Advanced Hebrew: Thursday 4:15 5:15 p.m. Memorial Tree Planting in Israel 18005428733 Organizations: Sisterhood • Jewish War Veterans: Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism Post 400: Commander Harvey Charter 2463151 • Mikvah Bashka of Southwest Florida: Nechamie Minkowicz 8222784 • ORT Gulf Beaches Chapter Marina Berkovich 5661771 L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 FROM THE BIMAH Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 25

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. Our lives are made to fly and return to their Source Moses and God In memoriam: Amos Oz ond heart attack. Both butterflies, and ive times. Not just once or even times past or now that You have spoken hen I was in rabbinical and spiritual life.” our lives, are made to fly and return to three times, but five times does to your servant, I am slow of speech and school, I was attracted Because he wrote in a contem- their Source. FMoses try to avoid God’s call to slow of tongue.” And the Eternal said to the Zionist writings of porary voice, it was Amos Oz who go to Pharaoh and free the Israelites to him, “Who gives humans speech? W Rabbi Dr. Michael J. Schorin, MAPC, Asher Zvi Ginsberg (1856-1927) who helped me understand and articulate BCC is a Chaplain in Lee Health’sfrom slavery in Egypt. Now granted, Who makes them dumb or deaf, seeing wrote under the pen name Ahad Ha- my Zionist commitment. Through his Department of Spiritual Services, andit’s a big job. But what an incredible or blind? Is it not I, the Eternal? Now am. Ha-am knew that book, Jews and Words, written with his ministers at the Gulf Coast Medical opportunity, what a go, and I will be with you as you speak, the establishment of daughter, Fania Oz Salzberger, I under- Center. new beginning. God and will instruct you what to say.” a Jewish state was stood that what we call Judaism is the invites Moses to God expects Moses to do a lot of about more than pro- religious culture of the Jewish people, imagine a new pos- talking – to Pharaoh, to the Israelites. viding a refuge for but it is not the entirety of Jewish cul- A matter of timing sibility – a future of So Moses’ concern that he’s slow of Jews. He saw the fu- ture. He loved our love of language and sion. It takes just one breath to say “I freedom, safety and speech and tongue makes sense. But if ture state as the only believed deeply in the transmission of love you.” It takes less than one ounce blessing. Will he take before God was encouraging Moses to place where the Jew- history from parent and grandparent to  of food to energize an act of courage. on the task and cre- look beyond his pessimism, now God Rabbi ish culture and spirit child and grandchildren. He, like I, be-  Marc It just takes a few words to speak a Rabbi ate this new future, is willing to acknowledge human limi- could thrive. In his lieved that this was the task of family, Nicole or will he remain a tations and offer divine help. We are Sack essay, “The Jewish one that was essential to the survival of commitment. It takes a fraction of our Luna brain cell capacity to think purpose- shepherd, spending not in this alone. God was with Moses, State and the Jewish Problem” (1897), our people. fully about social problems. Any of his days in the comfort of routine and and God is with us. What can you do he wrote: “The Jewish Settlement, As someone who fought in the Six- these acts can convert this day into thefamiliarity? with God’s help? which will be a gradual growth, will Day War and was part of the force that greatest day of your life. For, after all, We all are faced with a similar Genesis 4:13: “Please, O my lord, become in course of time the center of liberated Jerusalem, Oz believed that what is greater than love, what is stron-choice as Moses. Maybe not as dra- make someone else Your agent. The the nation, wherein its spirit will find Israel must find some accommodation ger than hope, what is more powerful matic, but we all have a choice. Do we Eternal became angry with Moses.” pure expression and develop in all its with the Palestinians. Shortly after that than an idea whose time has come? Wetake on new projects, try new things, Why does God suddenly become angry aspects to the highest degree of perfec- war he wrote: “I believe in a Zionism can experience all of these any day ofexplore the unexpected or remain con- at Moses? Is God tired of convincing tion of which it is capable. Then, from that faces facts, that exercises power our life that we choose to. The impor-tent in our regular ways and patterns? and reassuring Moses? At this point, this center, the spirit of Judaism will with restraint, that sees the Jewish past tant thing is to realize our potential and Moses hesitates and doubts but, ulti- Moses has run out of excuses. He radiate to the great circumference, to as a lesson, not as a mystical impera- then to act upon it. All of it is really amately, takes on the task and accom- simply likes his situation and doesn’t all the communities of the Diaspora, to tive or as an insidious nightmare; that matter of timing. plishes it. So how does God convince want the challenge. God gets angry inspire them with new life and to pre- sees Palestinian Arabs as Palestinian A great pianist was once ques-Moses to imagine a new future? when Moses insists he doesn’t want to serve the overall unity of our people.” Arabs, not as the camouflaged rein- tioned by a reporter about the difficulty Genesis Chapter 4, verse 1: Moses do it with no reason. Ultimately, God The State of Israel would be the cen- carnation of the ancient tribes of Ca- of playing the piano. He replied: “It isspoke up and said, “What if [the Isra- expects Moses to fulfill the task but is ter of a Jewish cultural and spiritual naan…” His political beliefs grew out quite simple. All you have to do is put elites] do not believe me and do not willing to provide some help and offers renewal that would radiate throughout of his understanding of Jewish history, the right finger on the right note at thelisten to me, but say: The Eternal did Aaron as his spokesman. Knowing that the Jewish world. that we must be sensitive to the needs right time. That’s all.” not appear to you?” Moses is a pes- others will be with him, gives Moses To me, Ahad Ha-am had a spiritual of the disenfranchised. On this too, I Rabbi Solomon Agin serves at Temple simist. Why bother attempting some- the confidence to move forward. heir in Amos Oz, who passed away found Oz to be a voice of insight and Shalom in Port Charlotte. thing when you’re likely to fail? Why If all we can imagine is uncertain- on December 28. Unlike Ha-am, Oz reason. bother trying to make a change when ty or failure, we remember how God was born in Palestine. Nor did he have I was a teenager when I read Oz’ your chances of success are just so-so? showed Moses a positive outcome. Ha-am’s yeshiva training. (Ahad Ha- breakout novel, My Michael (1968), a So what does God do? God helps him We remember that like Moses, God am left the religious world in his 20s story about the inner life of a woman imagine a positive outcome by shar- created us with limitations but will be when he was attracted to secular phi- written by a man. I knew back then that ing with him three miracles – turning with us to help. But if we completely losophy.) But Oz, like Ha-am, believed this was a writer who intrigued me. a rod into a snake, healing a diseased refuse, we risk God’s anger pushing us in the culture of the Jewish people and “I like being Israeli,” he wrote. “I hand, and turning water into blood. to leave our place of comfort for great- saw Israel as its center. In his essay, like being a citizen of a country where TEMPLE BETH EL CHABAD OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY God paints Moses a different picture, er promise. Though we must be up to “The Meaning of Homeland” (1967), there are eight and a half prime minis- REFORM ORTHODOX one where Moses performs miracles the task, we do not have to do it alone. he wrote: “The new State of Israel is ters, eight and a half million prophets, 16225 Winkler Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 204 E Mckenzie St Unit B, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 and the Israelites believe him and his We find brothers and sisters with their not tied by an umbilical cord to Jew- eight and a half million messiahs. Each Rabbi Nicole Luna Rabbi Simon Jacobson authority. What future success can you own talents to help us. Then, together Email: [email protected] Phone: (941) 8333381 ish religion and history, but also not of us has our own personal formula for Temple educator: Dale Cohen, Ma.Ed., R.J.E Email: [email protected] imagine? we march as one toward the Promised completely detached from them. It is redemption, or at least for a solution. Preschool director: Jesyca Virnig Web site: www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com Genesis 4:10: But Moses said to Land. in the curious and fascinating situation Everyone shouts and no one listens. President: Governance Committee IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES Services: Saturday at 10 a.m. followed by Email: [email protected] a kiddush the Eternal, “Please O my lord, I have Rabbi Nicole Luna serves at Temple of ‘facing.’ The Bible and the Mish- It’s never boring here.” Amos Oz was Phone: 4330018 • Fax: 4333235 Torah study: Wednesday at 8 p.m. never been a man of words, either in Beth El in Fort Myers. nah, the prayers and the piyyutim, hal- one of Israel’s clearer-voiced prophets. Web site: www.templebethel.com akhah and aggadah do not dominate His was a voice I listened to. Shabbat services: 7:30 p.m. Friday; Torah study CHABAD LUBAVITCH 9:00 a.m. Saturday; B’nai Mitzah 10:30 a.m. Saturday COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA the State of Israel, but they are present Rabbi Marc Sack serves at Temple Religious & Hebrew School: 9:00 a.m.12:30 Sunday REFORM ORTHODOX in it and indirectly shape its everyday Judea in Fort Myers. Judaica Gift Gallery 10868 Metro Parkway, South Fort Myers 5620 Winkler Road Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism (The Southwest Florida Masonic Center) Fort Myers, FL 33919 COMMENTARY BRIEFS P.O. Box 07144, Fort Myers, FL 33919 Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz Rabbi Bruce Diamond TEMPLE BETH SHALOM Phone: 4337708 • Fax: 4819109 eos and poignant portrait, al-Najjar About a decade ago, Erdogan de- as “white supremacists.” REFORM ([email protected]) Email: [email protected] NEW YORK TIMES 702 S.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33990 Coordinator: Natalie Fulton Web site: www.chabadswf.org PUBLISHES EPIC SMEAR wasn’t targeted by a sniper but was cided to turn Turkey from Israel’s best The concept of anti-Semitism was Rabbi Devora Buchen Adult Educator: Jessica Evers Services: Friday 5:15 p.m.; Saturday Kabbalah a victim of an unintentional rico- friend to one of its greatest adversaries. coined by anti-Jewish activist Wilhelm Phone: (239) 4666671 OF ISRAEL President: Arnie Schwartz class 9 a.m.; Shacharit 10 a.m.; Kiddush at chet. (CAMERA - Committee for The countries no longer have an am- Marr, who objected to the idea that Phone: 7724555 • Fax: 7724625 Email: [email protected] noon Minyan: Monday & Thursday 7:00 a.m. ‹‹ The New York Times story of De- Web site: www.fortmyerssynagogue.com Accuracy in Middle East Report- bassador posted in each other’s coun- Jews would assimilate into Germany. Email: [email protected] cember 30 on the death of a young Web site: www.templebethshalomcc.org Community Sabbath eve dinner each Friday CHABAD JEWISH CENTER ing in America) try. It is difficult to ignore the blatant Anti-Semitism became entwined with Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday at 6:30 p.m. Gazan woman in June 2018 during Sabbath eve worship every Friday at 7:30 p.m. OF CAPE CORAL anti-Semitism in Erdogan’s endless at- the idea that Jews were a separate Religious School: Thursday 4:00 6:30 p.m. ORTHODOX border riots covered 3 1/2 pages. Torah study with Rabbi Buchen: Shabbat 10:30 a.m. Light breakfast and Torah study with the rabbi HIZBULLAH’S TUNNELS tacks against Israel. “race” from white Europeans. Today every Saturday morning from 9:30 11:30 a.m. 1716 Cape Coral Pkwy. W., Cape Coral, FL 33914 The rioters hurling fire bombs, Organizations: Brotherhood, Sisterhood, ARE A CLEAR THREAT TO Turkey might be a member of that has come full circle and Jews are Family Service (1st Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m.) Rabbi Yossi Labkowski rocks, burning tires and flaming TEMPLE JUDEA Phone: 9634770 ISRAEL – AND THE UN NATO, but it definitely doesn’t act like portrayed as not just passing as white, Email: [email protected] kites, and ripping down the fence BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS CONSERVATIVE one. As long as Erdogan remains leader but of being an example of white su- 14486 A&W Bulb Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 Web site: www.chabadcape.com wherever they can, are not termed DOESN’T CARE REFORM Services: Friday Evening 7:30 p.m. This week, IDF forces uncovered the of Turkey, ties between Jerusalem and premacy. Only 70 years after the Ho- Meets at Sanibel Congregational Church 2050 Rabbi Marc Sack “rioters” but “protesters.” Email: [email protected] Saturday morning 9:30 a.m. followed by fifth in a series of surprisingly sophis- Ankara will continue to deteriorate and locaust, the people genocided for being Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island Kiddush luncheon ‹‹ Thousands of rockets from Gaza Rabbi Stephen L. Fuchs President: Dan Fox relations between the two peoples will non-white and non-European are now Director of Congregational Learning: Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. have necessitated bomb shelters ticated tunnels built by Hizbullah and President: Alan Lessack MondayFriday morning 7:00 a.m. continue to be poisoned. (Editorial, called white supremacists. Phone: 2395790296 (OctApr) Tab Scribner and concrete-protected schools and designed to sneak terrorists into Is- Preschool Director: Joann Goldman JLI Courses: Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. rael from Lebanon. Built in urban ar- December 28, Jerusalem Post) The term “white Jews” is anti- 7732518862 (MaySept) Weekly Torah Study: Tuesday evening 7:30 p.m. public spaces throughout Israel’s Email: [email protected] [email protected] Jewish because no other group is sub- Phone: 4330201 • Fax: 4333371 Hebrew School: Sunday 10:00 a.m.12:30 p.m. south, safe rooms in every home eas, they were surprisingly large and Cantor: Murray Simon NOW THEY CALL US jected to this same slur. Labeling Jews Web site: www.batyam.org Email: [email protected] Jgirls: Tuesday 6:007:00 p.m. and elaborate anti-missile systems reached at least 80 feet underground. Web site: www.tjswfl.org “white” is a way to purposely attack Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday (OctApr) to protect against the bombard- All of them terminated near Israeli “WHITE JEWS”: A NEW 7:00 p.m. Friday (MaySept) Services: 6:15 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m. COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS and single out this one group. Those Saturday Minyan: 9:00 a.m. Monday  Shalom Life Center ments. But no mention is made of population centers. This week, the UN AMERICAN ANTI-SEMITISM Adult Education: who use this term don’t say “white Saturday, 9:00 11:30 a.m. (NovApr) Religious School: Sun. 9:30 a.m.noon; Lawrence Dermer, Spiritual Leader 2183433 the millions of Israelis who live Security Council debated the tunnels “Women’s March activists are grap- Jewish Current Events: Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Wed. 4:306 p.m. • AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee): pling with how they treat Jews, and Muslims, white Hindus, white Catho- Jacki Waksman (954) 6539053 under missile threat from Gaza. but took no punitive action, leaving Is- to 12:15 p.m. (NovApr) Early childhood education: lics.” Jews are the only minority group Preschool, MF, ages 18 months5 years; • AJC (American Jewish Committee): ‹‹ The Times wrote: “Before 2005, rael to counter the menace alone. (Edi- whether they should be counted as Write: P.O. Box 84, Sanibel, FL 33957 Brian Lipton (941) 3654955 in America told that it is “white.” Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism “Mommy & Me,” 12 months2 years Gaza residents could work in Is- torial, December 28, New York Post) privileged white Americans or ‘mar- Affiliated: United Synagogue of Conservative • AntiDefamation League: (561) 9882900 If you remain silent when you hear Judaism • B’Nai B’rith International: (941) 3024500 rael. But rocket attacks and bomb- ginalized’ minorities,” The New York • Chevra Kadisha: the term “white Jews,” you are not do- TEMPLE SHALOM CHARLOTTE ings after the Second Intifada WRITE OFF TURKEY Times noted recently. The labeling of HARBOR AND THE GULF ISLANDS CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS/ Gene Sipe 8414615 AS LONG AS ERDOGAN Jews as “white” and debates on how ing your part to stop this creeping ha- REFORM • Generations of the Shoah SWFL: 9639347 erupted in 2000 prompted Israel ESTERO • Hadassah Collier/Lee Chapter: to “treat Jews,” as if Jews are pack- tred. There are no white Jews. There are 23190 Utica Ave., P.O. Box 494675 Lynn Weiner 5981009 to cordon off the strip.” Rocket at- REMAINS IN CHARGE Port Charlotte, FL 339494675 ORTHODOX ages in a supermarket, is a form of de- Jews. Some Jews may appear white, 24850 Old 41 Road, Suite 20 (in the Bernwood • Hadassah Sharon Chapter (Charlotte County): tacks and bombings “erupted”? By “Jews don’t kick men but also wom- Rabbi Solomon Agin Odette Port (941) 5051409 humanizing rhetoric designed to force or even have origins in Europe. Some President: Gary Wein Centre) whom, from where? en and children when they fall on the Bonita Springs, FL 341357024 • Hazak 55+ Chapter: Jewish people into a binary of “white/ do not. There are many more Muslims Phone: (941) 6252116 Joyce Rosinger 4371566 ‹‹ For 80% of the story, Rouzan al- ground,” Turkish President Erdogan Email: [email protected] Rabbi Mendy Greenberg non-white” that is currently trendy who pass as white than there are Jews. Phone: 9496900 • Humanistic Jewish Havurah: Najjar is reported to have been told an Istanbul meeting of the Tur- Web site: templeshalomfl.com Paula Creed 4958484 in U.S. discussions. The new toxic (Seth J. Frantzman, Jerusalem Post) Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday Web site: www.JewishBonita.com killed by a bullet “fired by an Is- key Youth Foundation on Saturday. Services: Saturday at 10 a.m., followed by • Israel Bonds: Regional Headquarters: (800) 6228017 Religious school: Sunday 10 a.m. • Jewish Community Services: 4814449 raeli sniper into a crowd.” Only Prime Minister Netanyahu responded discussion is designed to label Jews Beginning Hebrew: Tuesday 4:15 5:15 p.m. a kiddush • Jewish National Fund: (727) 5365263 Advanced Hebrew: Thursday 4:15 5:15 p.m. Memorial Tree Planting in Israel 18005428733 near the end do readers learn the on Twitter: “Erdogan – the occupier Organizations: Sisterhood • Jewish War Veterans: woman was killed when a bullet of northern Cyprus, whose army mas- Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism Post 400: Commander Harvey Charter 2463151 sacres women and children in Kurdish Stay connected all month long at • Mikvah Bashka of Southwest Florida: struck the ground a distance from Nechamie Minkowicz 8222784 her and ricocheted. That is, despite villages, inside and outside Turkey – • ORT Gulf Beaches Chapter the elaborate diagrams, online vid- should not preach to Israel.” Marina Berkovich 5661771 www.JewishFederationLCC.org L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 26 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties FROM THE BIMAH

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. Plugging away Immokalee on my mind ho knows if Henry David plain to me when I was acting out in ecently, I returned to Immo- ing wages) and buy only from growers Thoreau was right when he yeshivah high school. The school re- kalee for the better part of three who had committed to stringent, legal- Wobserved that “most men quired the male students to wear white Rdays thanks to a program spon- ly binding human rights monitoring in lead lives of quiet desperation.” But or pastel color dress shirts and ties, no sored by T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for the fields. what I do know is that I have come jeans, no sneakers and, oddly enough Human Rights, under the able leader- One of the highlights of my three to admire women for an Orthodox school, no facial hair. ship of Rabbi Rachel days in Immokalee was visiting the and men who can Bristling under these rules during the Kahn-Troster, and I vast tomato fields of Sun Ripe -Certi “plug away” at jobs era of The Beatles, I argued to my fa- learned so much. fied Brands, of Pacific Tomato Grow- and work for people ther that Einstein wore sneakers, a Immokalee is ers. There, in a lovely auditorium de- they do not enjoy, or sweatshirt and facial hair. To which he where 90% of all to- signed for worker educational sessions maybe even loathe, replied, “First you have to produce like matoes eaten fresh we met with the company’s human re- in order to support an Einstein, and then people will put up in the eastern United sources director, Jessica Castillo, who  Rabbi their families. I have with you quirks!” States are grown. It told us, “When as a child, I saw my Bruce a kind of respect for The Jewish tradition emphatically  Rabbi is one of the state’s mother get up in the middle of the night Diamond those who can endure teaches that you must never disagree Stephen poorest cities but a to go out into the fields and be subject and persevere in unhappy situations with your father, especially publicly, Fuchs scant half hour away to all of the abuses... I never imagined for the sake of those who are counting and this column is as public as you get. from one of the richest, Naples. that today I would be here paid by the on them because that was something I So let me just put it like this: employ- While many residents of Naples company to provide mandatory educa- found nearly impossible to do over the ers pay good money for you to plug live lives of splendor, life for those in tion for workers on their basic rights. long haul. away at what they want you to do, not Immokalee is difficult, mired in pov- I am proud that workers seek out our Twenty-two years ago, when I first just at what you find interesting and erty even after hours of backbreaking company as a place to work and know came to the area for a job at a local or- worthwhile. And no matter how bril- work in the fields. that if they ever have a grievance it will ganization, a member at that place who liant you may be or even they think They make their living in the vast be heard with sympathy and dealt with thought I should have never been hired you are, there are limits to the mishigas tomato fields where, not long ago, ram- appropriately.” said to me, “Rabbi, you get by on tal- that most bosses will put up with, the pant sexual abuse, pitiful working con- Unfortunately, Publix, the largest ent, but you are not a plugger.” Since I behaviors they don’t think fit in with ditions and equally pitiful, sub-poverty grocery chain in Southwest Florida, think this guy was a “plugger” himself, their operations. Talent or even genius wages were the backdrop for their ef- and Wendy’s have so far refused to I am not sure he meant his comment to does not buy you a free pass over the forts. join the Fair Food Program. I am so in- me in a completely positive way. long haul. You usually have to be your Complaints against these abuses spired by the optimism of the members But I really took the observation to own boss for that. met with summary dismissal. of the CIW. I love that when CIW’s heart, and still mull it over even today. So “hats off” to those who can The sorry history of farm work in Lupe Gonzalo addressed us, she did In some respects he was right: the peo- swallow their “Campbellian bliss” and Southwest Florida also includes epi- not refer to Wendy’s as an enemy but ple who hired me really wanted some- plug away at disagreeable jobs work- sodes of forced labor in which work- as “a future partner” in advancing jus- one who could plug away at the job ing for disagreeable people in order to ers found themselves locked up in tice in the fields. no matter what they threw at him, not meet their domestic responsibilities or windowless and bathroom-less trucks To encourage this “future partner” some intellectual high-wire act who maybe even climb what they think is overnight or housed behind barbed- to hasten the day it joins the alliance, I could dazzle and amaze but not attend the career ladder. Who knows where I wire enclosures patrolled by armed joined seven other clergy people and a much to the things they wanted which would be today if I was able to do that? guards to keep them from escaping. group of CIW workers in a demonstra- he might find overly pedestrian or with Certainly not as happy as I am! Field foremen often denied workers tion in front of a Wendy’s at a busy in- which he disagreed. Rabbi Bruce Diamond serves at The access to shade, water and bathroom tersection in Naples. Thousands of cars Also back then, I was living under Community Free Synagogue in Fort breaks. There are several documented drove by, and many honked their horns a false assumption based upon what Myers. cases of workers being beaten. in support. my father, alav hashalom, tried to ex- But in the early 1990s, the work- Why does this matter to me? ers began organizing, determined to Our Torah teaches there is no such change conditions in the fields and bet- thing as an innocent bystander in the ter their own lives. The organization face of injustice (DT 22:3), that we When Adar begins they founded, the Coalition of Immo- must pay our workers promptly and kalee Workers (CIW), started by try- fairly (LV 19:13), and that we may not we increase our joy ing to change conditions on the farms stand idly by while our neighbor suf- nce, when Rabbi Beruka met connotes some pleasurable situation or directly, attempting to get cooperation fers. (LV 19:16) the prophet Elijah in the mar- occurrence. from the farm owners. But in 2001, Because I take these teachings very Oketplace, Rabbi Beruka asked Jewish teachings define happiness they tried an innovative new strategy, seriously, I encourage you to commu- him, “Can you show me someone who not only as the feeling of joy that results holding the giant corporations at the nicate with Wendy’s and Publix about is assured of a place in the World to from pleasure. For the Jew, happiness top of the supply chain responsible for the Fair Food Program. Ask to see the Come?” is itself a form of devotion, of Divine human rights abuses and low wages at store manager and tell them that a pen- Elijah pointed to service to the Creator. It is a self-im- the bottom. ny per pound is a small price to pay for two ordinary looking posed state of mind, which denotes our The Fair Food Program demands basic human dignity. people, whereupon faith and belief in G-d. We are joyous that major food retailers pay a penny Rabbi Stephen Lewis Fuchs serves at Rabbi Beruka ap- because we are sure that everything He more per pound of tomatoes (paid di- Bat Yam Temple of the Islands on Sani- proached them and does is in our very best interest; we are rectly to workers and aimed at increas- bel Island. asked what their oc- joyous because we are living in accord cupation was. with G-d’s Divine blueprint for univer- Read the current and recent issues of L’CHAYIM “We are jesters sal life, the Torah.  Rabbi who make people Our joyous state of mind exists online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org. Yitzchok laugh when they are regardless of externals, it defines our Minkowicz sad,” they replied. being Jews. And happiness is also a What exactly is a jester and how great mitzva, for it is an affirmation did these particular jesters make peo- in the truest fashion, of our faith in an High School Students: ple laugh when they were depressed? omniscient and benevolent G-d, whose The word “jesters” is defined by Rashi plan for us may be unfathomable, but as “one who is joyful and causes others Whom we trust, as a child trusts his Earn CAS Credits! to rejoice.” mother and father. The Jewish Federation of Lee This word can also be read as, “I Rabbi Yitzchak Luria comments, have given joy to others; consequently, “Simcha [joy] is fundamental to the and Charlotte Counties is I have also rejoiced.” One experiences service of G-d. Even if our service was interested in hearing from personal joy only after he dispenses it lacking in other aspects, if we had been teenagers in high school to others. happy while serving G-d, we never who might like to earn CAS The nature of joy is that it perme- would have been exiled.” credits though various work ates a person’s entire being. When a Of course, the mega-simcha we person is happy, he lives joyfully. This are all awaiting is the imminent com- in the Jewish community. happiness affects the way he conducts mencement of the Messianic Era. his life and influences everyone with And we can each hasten its arrival by If you are interested, whom he comes in contact. He shares maintaining an attitude of joy, which please send the following happiness with those around him and will most certainly have a ripple effect information to his happiness brings him success in all through our relationships with every- [email protected]: matters. one we encounter on our meandering At the conclusion of a passage in paths through this world. Name the Torah describing a series of curses On February 5, the Jewish Month Address to be visited upon the Jewish people, of Adar begins (this year it’s for two Phone # the Torah explains, “Because you did months), about which the Talmud Age not serve the L-rd your G-d with joy- states, “When Adar begins we increase fulness and with gladness of heart...” our joy.” Grade This idea is somehow foreign to Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz serves at School the customary notion of happiness. Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Flor- Preferred volunteer hours When do we consider ourselves hap- ida. py? Well, for most of us, happiness (e.g. 2 - 5P.M. Sundays) L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 FOCUS ON YOUTH Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 27

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. ries and learning songs TEMPLE JUDEA SCHOOLS to sing for our Religious Fort Myers School Shabbat on Fri- day, March 1. Tab Scribner, The older children are preparing Director of Congregational Learning for two upcoming public programs: After a much-needed break, Temple leading a Friday night service on Judea Religious School is back at March 1 (highlighted with songs pre- Bar / Bat Mitzvah Specialist it again. While it was great to see so pared by the younger class) and read- many of our children serve the commu- ing from the Megillah on Wednesday, Choosing the right photographer is an important decision. nity breakfast on December 25, it was March 20. Every week during religious Michael Shapiro has more than 30 years experience in media not the same as being with the entire school, our students have a one-on-one and journalism. He is able to capture images that are unique, group. The children were delighted to lesson on their Megillah portion both see their friends again when we re- in reading the Hebrew, and in learning unexpected and spontaneous. sumed our studies on January 6. It’s a trope. tight-knit group that genuinely enjoys We held our first Tot Shabbat pro- each other’s company. Tales of vaca- gram on January 18 at 5:00 p.m. Our tion adventures, and the joy of time next program is Friday, February 8. spent with family filled the school. It These interactive family services are was a thrill to see the excitement in designed with young families in mind their eyes as they saw their teachers and feature music, stories and hands-on and reconnected with their classmates. activities. For more information about Our youngest learners are get- our Tot Shabbat program, please call ting back into the swing of Religious me at 239.433.0201 or email tjswfle- School and are continuing their work [email protected]. on the aleph bet, reading biblical sto- We also welcomed our new Shli- cha, Netta Harush, to Temple Judea on January 20. We are Other Services: Weddings / Family Portraits / Events very excited to have her pres- ence in our synagogue and re- 239.770.6860 ligious school. Netta comes from Kfar Vitkin in the Hefer [email protected] Valley, and she brings a wealth www.shapiro-photography.com of experience with children and young adults with TAGLIT, the Netzer youth movement and JAVIA. Netta is a veteran of the IDF and is currently a graduate Candle lighting times: student in Organizational So- ciology at Tel Aviv University. Her infectious smile and fun February 1: 5:52 Emily Polk, Henry Reynolds and other kids personality were immediately work the Breakfast for the Hungry on December 25 felt when she met the children. February 8: 5:57

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all happening below the than wisdom is like a tree with more as far back as Abraham and Sarah. SHALOM LIFE CENTER surface, what seems like roots than branches, and no hurricane If trees can give so much to our Fort Myers the end is really a new will uproot him from the spot. world, imagine what we, who can (239) 218-3433 beginning. We may think that our words are walk, talk, sing, pray and plan can do! Every tree begins as how we’ll be remembered. But trees We are the trees and… “Our Torah is a We are the trees a seed. The difference between being teach us that, in the end, it’s our actions tree of life to those who hold fast to it, Lawrence & Robin Dermer buried underground and being planted that matter most. Do more, speak less. and all of its supporters are happy. Its Our Jewish sages teach that, “Man is in the ground is that when we’re plant- Gimelut Chasadim – it’s the acts of ways are ways of pleasantness, and all the tree of the field.” We have so much ed, we grow. No matter how much dirt loving kindness we’ll be remembered its paths are peace!” in common with trees, and there are comes into our lives, we can see it as an by. Join us every Friday for joyful, many lessons that we can learn when opportunity to grow into our best pos- A tree with deep roots always musical and meaningful Shabbat ser- we open our minds as well as our eyes. sible selves. thrives and survives. It’s strong, beau- vices at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday morn- Why do we celebrate Tu B’Shevat A little less talk and a lot more ac- tiful and always bears fruit. How can ings for Torah study at 10:00 a.m. Visit in the winter when most trees are bare? tion! Trees don’t ask for things or com- we continue to grow no matter what our website at www.shalomlifecenter. Although many trees appear to be plain, and they don’t make promises challenges we face? How can we keep org for our many clubs, programs and dead, the winter is when they’re actu- that they can’t keep. Trees DO give us our roots strong? special events. Don’t forget to mark ally the most alive. We can’t see what air, food, shelter, shade and wood for Deeply rooted with faith in G-d, your calendars for Saturday, February is happening, but it’s now that they’re fuel and building. Trees are not talkers, we may face obstacles, but we’ll be 23 at 7:30 p.m. for “Rock, Rhythm and creating new life. they’re doers! spiritually nourished and able to thrive Ruach” – an evening of rockin’ soul In the winter of our lives – when In Pirkei Avot we are taught: Who- in any circumstances. With an Emunah music, Motown and more, including a all seems dark and cold, when it seems ever has more wisdom than deeds is Shleymah, an unwavering faith, we’ll 50/50 raffle and a delicious dessert buf- that we’re doing the exact opposite of like a tree with many branches but few understand that every challenge is re- fet after the show. For more informa- blossoming – is when we’re truly grow- roots, and the wind shall tear him from ally an opportunity to grow. Remem- tion, please email us at info@shalom ing. Even if we can’t see it, even if it’s the ground... Whoever has more deeds ber, the deep roots of our faith go back lifecenter.org or call 239.218.3433.

ing support so the good rael forging meaningful relationships a project or program that interests you; HADASSAH work can continue. in the arts, education, business and, of become part of a study group or book Collier/Lee Chapter This is who we are course, at Hadassah’s hospitals. group; attend Mahjong and Game Day, GENERATIONS OF THE SHOAH (239) 301-0509 and what we do. Why The Branch creates a much-needed a luncheon meeting or social gathering. we do this is because we space for powerful storytelling about If you need cards, certificates or SOUTHWEST FLORIDA Who we are, what we do, believe in volunteering for a cause be- real life and shared society in Israel JNF trees, consider contacting Hadas- (239) 963-9347 and why we do it yond ourselves – on behalf of programs that reaches American audiences who sah volunteers to help you celebrate Diane Schwartz and projects which grow in impact may have only encountered negative an occasion or milestone or mark the Events happen at a dizzying pace and over time and through our members’ portrayals of Zionism. In Episode 2, passing of a loved one or friend. Con- swiftly these days, and it is sometimes and supporters’ efforts and generosity. for example, host Dina Kraft takes tact Mimi Cohn at 239.445.9527 or difficult to focus beyond ourselves. It is a mitzvah and an honor to do this. listeners inside the Yad B’Yad School [email protected], or Paula Berzon Nonetheless, Hadassah inspires a pas- Hadassah also offers thoughtful in Jerusalem, where Jewish and Arab at 239.592.9278 or paula.berzon@ sion for and commitment to empow- insights into historic as well as current students learn together, and about each yahoo.com. To bring you comfort, ering Jewish women to effect change, events and issues. According to Ellen other, in Hebrew and Arabic. “It’s not would you like to support a Perpetual strengthening a connection with Israel, Hershkin, Hadassah National Presi- a small step,” says a co-principal. “It’s Yahrzeit performed in Israel? Con- supporting our Jewish community life, dent, “What our world needs right now something amazing.” tact Gale Lazarus at 239.404.4878 or and bringing healing and justice to the are more stories about the places where If you find all of this as compelling [email protected]. world. peace prevails, where people actively and important as we do, please join us. All of us in Hadassah do all of That mission starts and develops engage with one another instead of de- There are many ways to participate, these things and so much more to sup- with local groups like ours. The Col- monizing others, even when it can be and the joy and positive feeling of the port the Jewish values of tzedakah and lier/Lee Chapter is one of many across challenging.” future will make you stand taller with a tikkun olam. the country – 330,000 Hadassah mem- Our new podcast series, The smile on your face – it does me! For information on any of the bers and supporters in all – that focuses Branch, offers a glimpse into the ev- You, too, can join and become a above events and activities, contact me on causes larger than ourselves, ensur- eryday lives of Jews and Arabs in Is- member or a life member; volunteer for at [email protected].

Our speaker will be death, a death with a minimum of then, is and always has been a matter of HUMANISTIC JEWISH HAVURAH Bill Schoolman, repre- pain and suffering. Furthermore, since wishful thinking. Actually, our immor- of Southwest Florida senting the Final Exit Humanistic Judaism holds that each tality relies upon the memory we leave (239) 495-8484 Network. Schoolman was person is the owner of his or her life to those who live after us. a former activist for 10 and body, it follows that each person To recognize one’s mortality is not “The Right to Die with Compassion years with the ACLUFL, past President has the right to decide when and how to admit defeat but to acknowledge the and Dignity” of the Broward ACLU Chapter and to end that life. Humanistic ethics op- necessity of finding in this world and in Paula Creed principal public speaker for the chapter pose the cruel and inhuman notion that this life all possible purpose and mean- On Sunday afternoon, February 17, in Broward County. His last position human beings must be kept breath- ing, rather than to await fulfillment in the Humanistic Jewish Havurah of with the ACLU was as the Vice Presi- ing as long as possible, regardless of a hereafter. It is to realize and under- SW Florida invites you to join us for dent of the Florida ACLU. the circumstances and the person’s stand the nature of humankind, which a discussion of “The Right to Die with With extensive public speaking ex- own fervent wish to be relieved of possesses more independence, power, Compassion and Dignity.” The meeting perience on a broad range of civil rights suffering. freedom and, hence, dignity than any will begin with coffee ’n chat at 1:30 issues, Schoolman will discuss issues Humanistic Judaism accepts life other known thing in the universe – but p.m. in the David G. Willens Commu- surrounding the right to die. The Final and death realistically. It promises no not infinite independence, power and nity Room of the Jewish Federation Exit Network wants to change the laws eternal salvation, nor, confronted by freedom. of Greater Naples, 2205 Vanderbilt that deny patients the right to decide mortality, does it recommend an atti- Humans fall down and are bruised; Beach Road, Suite 2201, Naples. Our how their conditions will be treated. tude of despair. Just as Humanistic Ju- they are susceptible to viruses and be- speaker takes the podium promptly at He will also discuss the Network’s ef- daism encourages and seeks to secure come ill; they may choose to eat too 2:00 p.m. forts to change laws that prevent pa- life with dignity, it encourages and much and get fat, smoke too much and Making a reservation with Dena tients from controlling how, when and seeks to secure death with dignity. die. Also, they may exercise control Sklaroff at [email protected] or where they die. The nature of all living beings, in- over themselves, diet, study and enjoy 239.591.0101 will help us provide ad- It is nothing short of barbaric to cluding human beings, means that their the pleasures of living. In this sense equate arrangements for this event. deny someone the right to die a good existence is finite. Scientists have dis- they are masters of their destiny, but covered no evidence that justifies be- not forever. lief in a life hereafter. Consciousness, Concerns about individual free- Temple Judea’s ac- thinking and awareness are functions dom, responsibility, dignity and aid in HAZAK 55+ CHAPTER tive HAZAK Chapter is of the brain. At death, the brain deterio- dying have become controversial is- at Temple Judea a chartered member of rates with the rest of the body, and any sues in the courts, in medical circles kind of awareness is impossible. With- and in the media. This topic requires (239) 433-0201 the United Synagogue of Conservative Juda- out awareness, immortality would be our attention. Jan Klein ism. Membership in the organization is meaningless. The belief in immortality, On Wednesday, February 13, HAZAK, open to the community. Join HAZAK along with Chaverot and Temple Ju- and meet new friends. HAZAK Chap- dea, will host author Anastasia Good- ters are for singles and couples. It’s an What do you think? man, who writes mystery novels with organization that enables members to Jewish Refusenik themes. Books will meet and socialize with each other. Our be available for purchase after the pre- monthly programs vary in nature. sentation. Temple Judea’s HAZAK has won- L’CHAYIM wants to know! On Sunday, February 17, HAZAK, derful future programs planned for along with Chaverot, will host speaker 2019. Members of the community are Send your letters and comments to Ted Epstein, Jan Zausmer, who will talk about hav- always welcome to attend our pro- L’CHAYIM Editor, at [email protected]. ing lived part of her life as an Orthodox grams. For more information, contact woman. The group will go out to din- us at the email address noted above or Letters Policy ner afterwards at Sweet Tomatoes. call Temple Judea at 239.433.0201. Letters must include the writer’s full name, full address and daytime phone. RSVP to both events at tjhazak@ Dues for 2019 are now past due. If Letters should be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length gmail.com. Please specify which event you have not paid yet, please take care and/or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of L’CHAYIM and if you will be going to dinner on of it soon. nor its advertisers. We cannot acknowledge or publish every letter received. the 17th. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 ORGANIZATIONS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 29 as far back as Abraham and Sarah. ily members, and called man’s liberty and considered slavery small or large it may be. If trees can give so much to our JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY “shots” to injure and de- cruel, yet did not stop the exploitation Just as the State of Israel is a tiny world, imagine what we, who can OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA stroy the opponent. Now- of men to further his own Napoleonic spec in the world in a constant battle to walk, talk, sing, pray and plan can do! (239) 566-1771 adays, friends and fam- pursuits. In essence, he was pro and defend its existence, each Jew is a tiny We are the trees and… “Our Torah is a ily do that with opposing against slavery at once. Men liberated spec defending all Jews’ right to exist tree of life to those who hold fast to it,What will history records opinions, and pass up party invitations by him fell victims to far more dras- wherever Jews live. and all of its supporters are happy. Its tell about you? because the host or honoree has an in- tic enslavement schemes. We now see I am writing this article in early ways are ways of pleasantness, and allMarina Berkovich convenient viewpoint and no one wants clearly. January and my 2019 prediction is that its paths are peace!” One of my undisputable favorite his- any discussion that is uncomfortable. What remains of lives lived in the the Jewish Historical Society of South- Join us every Friday for joyful,torical figures, Golda Meir, famously In a relatively short historical public eye is only the legacy of the west Florida will play a lasting role in musical and meaningful Shabbat ser-said, “To be or not to be is not a ques- timespan of 50 years or so, no one will achievements. The greater the person’s our relatively small corner of the Earth vices at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday morn-tion of compromise. Either you be or remember where anyone stood on is- achievements, the more people will by placing accomplishments of South- ings for Torah study at 10:00 a.m. Visitnot be.” I think each of us knows what sues that are the heated table battle- attempt to seek a spot under the spot- west Florida’s Jewish Pioneers at the our website at www.shalomlifecenter.Golda meant, yet each of us interprets fields of today. Like, do we seriously light or revise the impact someone’s forefront of public opinion about Jews org for our many clubs, programs andthe meaning of this sentence in the way care where Napoleon, for instance, achievements truly meant in the con- in SWFL, and through its films and special events. Don’t forget to markit fits into our individual framework stood on slavery? We mostly remem- text of their day. I think Golda Meir Virtual Museum, quite possibly, every- your calendars for Saturday, Februaryand mindset. ber him for his wars, and even more so understood that when she fought for where else. 23 at 7:30 p.m. for “Rock, Rhythm and We are a very busy generation of for his defeats. Wars beget slavery. Israel’s right to be. I hope you will join us to help us Ruach” – an evening of rockin’ soulearthlings and we are a very busy gen- Odds are that people are 50 per- Several decades into the future no reach our goals. music, Motown and more, including aeration of Jews. Bombarded by infor- cent correct in their assumptions and one will care whether you joined a po- The Jewish Historical Society 50/50 raffle and a delicious dessert buf-mation overflow from every direction, 50 percent correct in their conclusions. litical party, signed a petition, attended of Southwest Florida fet after the show. For more informa-we each charter our navigation to best Like, if one assumed Napoleon was a rally or gala. Most people are re- 8805 Tamiami Trail North, Suite # 255 tion, please email us at info@shalom avoid physical and emotional collision pro-slavery, both the assumption and membered for their humanity and their Naples FL 34108 lifecenter.org or call 239.218.3433. with others as best we can. I presume conclusion are incorrect. Through his- sincere ways of sharing of themselves 833-547-7935 (833-JHS-SWFL) we all played battleship paper games as torical magnification of a couple centu- in a way that is beneficial, lasting and www.jhsswf.org ~ [email protected] children against our friends and fam- ries, we know that he valued individual impactful to their community, however a project or program that interests you; become part of a study group or book group; attend Mahjong and Game Day, spouses. The Internation- SWFL.org and click on the Calendar rated by Greek-Jewish survivor Haim a luncheon meeting or social gathering. GENERATIONS OF THE SHOAH al Tracing Service (ITS) Section at the top of the website. Konstantini. With the help of Monica If you need cards, certificates or SOUTHWEST FLORIDA collection has more re- Also due to requests, GenShoah Goodwin, this film will be shown at JNF trees, consider contacting Hadas- (239) 963-9347 cords for persons perse- will be sponsoring an opportunity for St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church, sah volunteers to help you celebrate cuted in Western Europe members of the Second Generation 7100 Airport-Pulling Road N., Naples. an occasion or milestone or mark theIda Margolis than for those who were persecuted (2gs) to share their personal stories. At To register, go to Holocaust Museum- passing of a loved one or friend. Con-With the current increased interest in in Eastern Europe. It nevertheless re- 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 10, 2gs SWFL.org. tact Mimi Cohn at 239.445.9527 orgenealogy and because of numerous mains the single largest collection of will meet at a member’s home. If you All of GenShoah SWFL’s pro- [email protected], or Paula Berzonrequests to help people find informa- records that documents the fates of in- are a 2g who would like to share your grams support some aspect of its mis- at 239.592.9278 or paula.berzon@tion about their family, a specialist in dividuals during the Holocaust. story and/or listen to others’ stories, sion of: promotion of Holocaust educa- yahoo.com. To bring you comfort,this area will be at the Holocaust Mu- Dr. Richter will demonstrate how email [email protected] ASAP to tion and human rights, preservation of would you like to support a Perpetualseum & Cohen Education Center on the ITS collection and other collec- reserve a spot for “Our Stories.” the history and memories of the Holo- Yahrzeit performed in Israel? Con-Sunday, February 17 at 11:00 a.m. tions at the USHMM can be of value Events in Greece during WWII is caust, connection of the Second Gen- tact Gale Lazarus at 239.404.4878 or Dr. Jude C. Richter, an information to genealogists and especially those re- a topic that is not widely known, but eration with one another, and support [email protected]. retrieval specialist at the Holocaust searching ancestors from Ukraine and of interest to many. GenShoah pro- of the Holocaust Museum & Cohen All of us in Hadassah do all ofSurvivors and Victims Resource Cen- Galicia. There will be a limited num- gram chair Steve Brazina will bring the Education Center. these things and so much more to sup-ter and Tracing Service at the United ber of opportunities for individuals to award-winning inspiring documentary For more information about Gen- port the Jewish values of tzedakah andStates Holocaust Memorial Museum meet with Dr. Richter in the afternoon. Life Will Smile to Naples on Thursday, Shoah, or to receive the GenShoah tikkun olam. (USHMM) in Washington, D.C., is be- Please email me at genshoahswfl@ March 7. This compelling 40-minute newsletter, email genshoahswfl@ For information on any of theing brought to Naples by GenShoah gmail.com to reserve a 20-minute slot film tells the story of the complete sur- gmail.com. For information about the above events and activities, contact meand the Holocaust Museum & Cohen to meet with Dr. Richter. The first 10 vival of Europe’s only Jewish commu- Museum, call 239.263.9200, email at [email protected]. Education Center. Records in the col- people will receive scheduled time be- nity during the Holocaust on the Greek [email protected], or lections of the USHMM can help those tween 1:00 and 5:00 p.m. and notified island of Zakynthos. The film is -nar visit HolocaustMuseumSWFL.org. doing research to document the experi- of their time slot. Additional requests ences of individual survivors and vic- will be added to a waitlist. tims of the Holocaust. They usually Space is limited for this special pre- include dates and places of birth and, sentation and registration is required. less often, the names of parents and To register, go to HolocaustMuseum-

cratic primaries, former ZIONIST ORG. of AMERICA Secretary of State Hill- Southwest Florida Chapter ary Clinton refused to (914) 329-1024 use the word “radical Is- lam” to classify terrorist Jerrold L. Sobel cells such as ISIS, Boko Statistically, acts of Islamic terrorism Haram and others. Her two rivals, Ver- have been increasing throughout both mont Sen. Bernie Sanders and former Europe and in the United States, a fact, Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley, like- according to a 2017 Gatestone report, wise agreed. She stated, “I don’t think that is inexplicably denied by ministers we’re at war with Islam. I think we’re and officials of the European Union. at war with jihadists.” Such thinking is According to the report, such authori- not only shared by Democrats in this ties have been saying the same thing: country, it also crosses political lines. Europe (meaning the EU) Islamic ter- Former Republican President rorism is merely a marginal aberra- George W. Bush, subsequent to the tion. There is “nothing to be afraid of,” September 11, 2001, attacks, similarly and if you show too much interest in shied away from a rush to judgment on the matter, “you are probably on the the Muslim faith, stating, “This great far-right.” This dialogue often ends up nation of many religions understands, with: “Do you want to persecute the our war is not against Islam or against Muslims and make them the Jews of faith practiced by the Muslim people… today’s Europe?” Europol, the Euro- Our war is a war against evil.” pean Union’s law enforcement agency, Taking an alternate point of view: buttresses this argument, stating: “The On Wednesday, February 27 at 7:30 trend is clearly downward: far fewer p.m. at the Chabad Jewish Center of terror attacks in Europe in 2018 than Naples (1789 Mandarin Rd.), noted lo- 10 years ago!” cal speaker Andrew Joppa will be dis- Others argue that it is true, in 2008 cussing “The Islam in Islamic Terror- What do you think? there were 583 terror attacks but no ism” – a title taken from a book written fatalities. Whereas in 2018 there were by former Muslim Ibn Warraq, one of only 142 attacks but 142 people were the premier experts on Islam in the L’CHAYIM wants to know! killed. Admittedly, statistics can often world today. Taking on the most preva- be skewed to fit a particular narra- lent issue of our time should lead to a Send your letters and comments to Ted Epstein, tive. What cannot be argued is the re- lively dialogue. ality that Islamic terrorism does exist As at all ZOA programs, the audi- L’CHAYIM Editor, at [email protected]. throughout the world today. However, ence will be encouraged to engage the what is in dispute is the causation of speaker during the Q&A session fol- Letters Policy this phenomenon. lowing his presentation. Letters must include the writer’s full name, full address and daytime phone. Even in the United States there is a Tickets are $20 prepaid and $22 Letters should be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length non-partisan divide concerning Islamic at the door. Student tickets are $7. For and/or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of L’CHAYIM terrorism, one unlikely to be solved further information, email jerrysobel@ nor its advertisers. We cannot acknowledge or publish every letter received. anytime soon. During the 2016 Demo- aol.com. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 30 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties TEMPLE NEWS

the Purim story will be events and programs, including youth Community Free Synagogue is “Study, COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE staged and then used dur- and adult Jewish education, are open Worship and Benevolent Acts,” gener- Fort Myers ing the Megillah reading to all and always free. Rabbi Bruce ally following progressive Jewish tra- (239) 466-6671 in March. (See the story Diamond, D.D., who guides the syna- ditions. in this issue for more in- gogue, is a respected community lead- The synagogue meets at the South- www.fortmyerssynagogue.com formation.) er for over 21 years as well as a long- west Florida Masonic Center, 10868 Last call for the June time educator at local institutions of Metro Parkway, Fort Myers. Heartfelt condolences to Dr. Janice 4-15 C.F.S. Israel Pilgrimage! It’s the higher learning. The foundation of The Wolfson and her family on the passing experience of a lifetime and remark- of her father Martin Crane. ably affordable. For more information, Mazel Tov to Seth and Simone visit the synagogue’s website at www. Monaco on the birth of their son Noah fortmyerssynagogue.com or email Ar- Langston Monaco, whom the Rabbi nie Harris at [email protected]. helped bring into the Covenant of Each Friday at 6:30 p.m., The Abraham on January 6, when his name Community Free Synagogue serves was announced to be Noah Levi ben a traditional Sabbath dinner. It is free Simhah Lev. and reservations are never required. This year’s C.F.S. Thursday, At 7:30 p.m., the Sabbath is welcomed February 14 Valentine’s Day special with prayer and song. A coffee hour Brown Bag Movie Night will feature follows worship. Woody Allen’s classic romantic com- Every Saturday at 9:30 a.m., C.F.S. edy, Annie Hall, starting at 6:30 p.m. offers a light breakfast followed bya in the Community Hall. Pack a dinner; lively discussion of the week’s Torah admission and soft drinks are free and portion with the Rabbi until 11:30 a.m., open to all. (See the story in this issue when the Mourner’s Qaddish is recited. for more information.) Now in its 14th year, The Com- The photo shoot for C.F.S.’ “Pow- munity Free Synagogue is an indepen- er Point Purim 4.0” starts at 4:00 p.m. dent synagogue and the largest Jew- Rabbi Bruce Diamond welcomes Noah Levi Monaco, son of Seth and Simone Monaco, on Sunday, February 17. Scenes from ish congregation in our area. All of its into the Covenant of Abraham in early January

With the arrival of The focus is on healing and compan- Leonard Bernstein and so much more. BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS Leonard Minsky on Sani- ionship. Rabbi Fuchs serves as the Following the music, there will be a Sanibel bel, Current Events is facilitator. The group is open to every- Meet the Soloists reception in Fellow- (773) 251-8862 again on the agenda on one. Questions may be directed to El- ship Hall with food and beverage. The TEMPLE BETH EL Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. len Feingold at 302.345.7187. Leo Rosner Foundation in honor of Fort Myers www.batyam.org The February sessions On Thursdays, February 14, 21 June Rosner is the primary sponsor of for the congregant-led and 28, from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m., in this event. (239) 433-0018 The Bat Yam snowbirds have landed in segment of Saturday morning Adult Fellowship Hall, Rabbi Fuchs will of- The Bat Yam Purim celebration www.templebethel.com such quantity that Friday night Shab- Education classes will cover varied fer a three-part class titled “Minor in will be on Friday, March 22. Talented bat services are being held in the spa- topics: how to research your Jewish Name Only.” The course will explore individuals are needed to portray aA congregant recently mused about cious Sanctuary rather than in Fellow- ancestry; Jewish history in Key West; the role played in Jewish thought and Purim story character and write new their way of preparing for Friday night ship Hall. It is a joy to have so many medicine in Iran; and outstanding Jew- practice by the so-called Twelve Minor words about the Purim character to aservices. “I like to come to services ear- congregants worshipping together ish women. Thanks to Vickie Fuchs, Prophets in the Bible. song of their choice. If interested inly to have several minutes of solitude again. When children and grandchil- coordinator, for the interesting topics, Mark your calendar for a very spe- expressing yourself on Purim, contactand to choose a good seat. On a recent dren are convinced to attend, as well as and to the volunteer speakers for mak- cial musical program scheduled for Rabbi Fuchs. Friday evening, I was met by the joy- visitors, there is a wonderful musical ing it interesting. Sunday, February 24 at 4:00 p.m. in The collection of paper products ful sound of small children laughing, chorus emanating from the audience. The Lee County Board of Rabbis the Sanctuary of the Sanibel Congrega- for F.I.S.H. on Sanibel continues bysinging and playing with instruments. Of course, it is Cantor Murray Simon, is planning a program to discuss con- tional UCC. Bat Yam’s Cantor Simon the Social Action Committee, chaired[It was Tot Shabbat – the first Friday of with Abigail Allison on piano, who temporary medical ethics on Sunday, asked Reverend John Danner, senior by Garry Weiss. Please bring your each month at 6:00 p.m.] In the middle keeps almost everyone in tune. Rabbi February 3 at 3:00 p.m. at the Jewish pastor of the Sanibel Congregational contribution the first weekend of eachof the floor sat a young woman. It was Stephen Fuchs sets the tone and the Federation, 9701 Commerce Center UCC, to join with him, Cantor Randy month. our wonderful rabbi. Surrounded by pace of the service. Court, Fort Myers. Bat Yam’s Rabbi Herman from New York and Cantor All Temple Bat Yam services andlittle kids, she was teaching them bless- The joint Temple Bat Yam and James Rudin will be a participant. Rab- Elizabeth Shammash from Pennsylva- classes take place on the campus of ourings and songs. Amazingly, the chil- Sanibel Congregational UCC Israel bis Rudin and Fuchs are members of nia. Toby Simon will be the piano ac- host, the Sanibel Congregational UCC,dren were attentive and responsive. I trip from April 29 to May 10 is sold the board. companist. Appropriately, the concert located at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sani-don’t have children but it brought tears out, but a waiting list was created in The next meeting of the Bat Yam is titled “Sanibel Celebration: Three bel. Members of the community, gueststo my eyes to see the parents holding the event a vacancy occurs. Call Sandy Grief Support Group is Wednesday, Cantors and a Pastor.” The music will and visitors are always welcome to join Simmons at 239.472.0497 for more in- February 6 at 7:00 p.m. in the Library include light classics, Broadway, Pop, with congregants. formation. of the Sanibel Congregational UCC.

Looking forward to on Thursday, February 7. The above activities are in addition TEMPLE BETH SHALOM February, don’t miss our This year’s banquet was held at the to our regular Friday night services, Cape Coral Bingo, Pasta & Salad Edison in Fort Myers and was a beauti- Torah Study, Brown Bag Lunches, (239) 772-4555 Nite on Saturday, Feb- ful event and lots of fun. Congratula- Bowling, Mah Jongg, Rosh Chodesh ruary 2. It’s just $20 for tions to this year’s honorees: Abby di and more. Call the Temple office at www.templebethshalomcc.org dinner and 10 games of Leonardo, Betty Beckerman, Peri and 239.772.4555 for more information. Bingo. Each game in- Bob Pantazes. Life goes on. Two funerals, a baby cludes six cards per player. You don’t naming and a wedding, all in one have to be a member, so come join the week. January was full of events, from fun. Also in February we will have our SNOWBIRDS, the sad to the beautiful. The snowbirds Brotherhood Shabbat on Friday, Feb- are back and the pace of activities is ruary 15 at 7:30 p.m. Finally, we will newspapers don’t fly… heating up. welcome back the Senior Lunch Bunch however, your address will!

Each Tuesday afternoon, an open session of Mah Jongg is held at the Jewish Federation.

Players must be at least advanced beginners, as no lessons are given. Coming South?

DAY: Tuesdays, 12:30~3:30 P.M. Don’t forget to contact us with FEE: $1 per week your change of address to

continue receiving L’CHAYIM.

Send address changes to:

[email protected]

or call: 239.481.4449 ext-4

Safe Travels

for more information call Rona Strausberg at 239.949.9003 L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 TEMPLE NEWS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 31

February 8 at 5:45 p.m. Zausmer. Her topic will be “Life as Lauren Baugh in the synagogue office TEMPLE JUDEA The service is open to all a Chabadnik.” This program will for more information and to RSVP. Fort Myers families with young chil- be held in the social hall. Rabbi Sack’s monthly lunchtime (239) 433-0201 dren and features a spe- • The monthly Rosh Chodesh pro- Torah study is on Thursday, February cial activity each month. gram is on Thursday, March 7, and 7 at noon at the offices of Myers and www.tjswfl.org On February 8, enjoy the will be at the home of Bernie Perl- Brettholtz and Company. It is an hour kid-friendly service and stein. of open discussion of Torah and Juda- The busy year continues for Temple help your child create a challah cover Have we got a Purim for you! On ism, where all levels of background Judea. Adult education classes con- to use at home. Sunday, March 10 from 10:00 a.m. to and all questions are encouraged. Ev- tinue on Mondays through March 4. If The next musical Shabbat evening 2:00 p.m., the religious school will eryone is welcome and there is no cost you missed the first class, there is still service is on Friday, February 22. Join hold a Purim carnival. Grogger mak- to attend. time to sign up. Classes include: with congregants in a lively and spiri- ing, carnival games, a costume contest Our monthly serving of meals at • “The Mystery of Love,” Part 2, tual celebration of Shabbat. The ser- and DUNK THE RABBI are just a few the Salvation Army’s Meals with Com- taught by Rabbi Michael Schorin, vice begins at 6:30 p.m. of the fun activities planned. There are passion continues. Meals are served on chaplain at Gulf Coast Hospital. Chaverot, Temple Judea’s Sis- opportunities to sponsor booths and Monday evenings and volunteers are You didn’t have to attend Part 1 terhood, has several events planned. games. The carnival is open to every- needed for February and March. Please to come to this class, which takes RSVP to tjchaverotfortmyers@gmail. one. Purim is a holiday to be celebrated contact Linda at lindaidelson8@gmail. place from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. com. by all ages! com if you’d like to help. • “The Death of Death: Resurrec- • On Wednesday, February 13, And the Purim celebration contin- Regular scheduled events: tion and Immortality of Jewish Chaverot joins with HAZAK to ues into the evening with “A Night to • Friday evening Shabbat services Thought” taught by Rabbi Marc host author Anastasia Goodman, Remember” – a social and fundrais- at 6:30 p.m., preceded each week Sack. The class is from 7:30 to author of the Sasha Perlov Mys- ing event that begins at 5:00 p.m. at with a wine and cheese reception 8:30 p.m. tery Series about a Russian-born the Heitman House downtown. There starting at 6:15 p.m. • “Hebrew for Beginners” taught by NYPD detective. Her books will will be a delicious hors d’oeuvres buf- • Saturday morning Shabbat servic- Avigail Gev. The class is from 7:30 be available for sale. The talk be- fet dinner and desserts, a DJ, dancing, es at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Kid- to 8:30 p.m. gins at 7:00 p.m. and will be held auction and raffle. Even more special, dush luncheon Call the synagogue office for more in the synagogue social hall. Light the congregation will also honor mem- • Lunchtime Torah Study with Rab- information and to register for the refreshments will be served. bers Diane Seidenstein and JoAnn bi Sack the first Thursday of each classes. There is no cost to attend. • On Sunday, February 17 at 4:00 Lewin, who do so much for our con- month A new monthly Tot Shabbat service p.m., Chaverot is again partnering gregation. The cost is $75 by March 1 • Morning minyan every Monday at began in January and continues Friday, with Hazak to sponsor a talk by Jan and $100 till March 5. Please contact 9:00 a.m.

a tallit over the heads of noon. p.m. for a stimulating discussion. TEMPLE BETH EL the children, receiving How about a Mi Shebeirach for Sisterhood presents three pro- Fort Myers the priestly benediction. I our dear office manager, Karen Kagan, grams this month: Preserving Aging (239) 433-0018 was most grateful to God who’s having knee replacement sur- Skin on Thursday, February 7; Doo for the parents expos- gery at the end of February? Wop & Motown on Saturday, February www.templebethel.com ing their young children TBE’s sixth annual Purim fund- 16; and the Raising Cane U.S. Sugar to Judaism, for the chil- raiser ends on March 4. Purim gift bags, Farm Tour on Thursday, February 28. A congregant recently mused about dren’s joyful learning experience, and containing homemade hamentashen For further information on any pro- their way of preparing for Friday night for the rabbi having the wisdom and and other goodies, can be picked up by grams, call 239.433.0018 or visit tem- services. “I like to come to services ear- energy to relate to the children and en- temple members from March 8-23. plebethel.com. ly to have several minutes of solitude gage them in such a loving way.” L’dor Monday night is history night at Sunday, February 10 from 2:30 and to choose a good seat. On a recent va’dor indeed. TBE with the always absorbing Gerry to 4:30 p.m. brings “Grave Matters.” Friday evening, I was met by the joy- On another note, no pun intended, Ziedenberg History Lecture Series. On Guest speakers will address advance ful sound of small children laughing, TBE’s Leslie Luzar Memorial Canto- February 4, 11, 18 and March 4 at 7:30 directives, the TBE Shiva Committee singing and playing with instruments. rial Series is underway. Free and open p.m., Gerry will cover a wide range of and what they can do for you in your [It was Tot Shabbat – the first Friday of to the community, our next guest is historical Jewish events and colorful time of need, TBE’s Cemetery Com- each month at 6:00 p.m.] In the middle Cantor Marshall Portnoy on Friday, people, including Shimon Peres, Mey- mittee’s role and the services they of the floor sat a young woman. It was February 8 at 7:30 p.m. Other ongoing er Lansky, Ralph Lauren and Benjamin provide, financial planning, the role of our wonderful rabbi. Surrounded by programs are Torah Study, Saturdays at Netanyahu. Expect a guest speaker and chevra kadisha volunteers and more. little kids, she was teaching them bless- 9:00 a.m.; Jewish Francophone Group, a film, too. Rabbi Luna will discuss Jewish end- ings and songs. Amazingly, the chil- second Wednesdays at noon; Talmud Our Book Club’s February selec- of-life rituals, as well as cultural and dren were attentive and responsive. I study, Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m.; Cur- tion is Paris in the Present Tense by traditional considerations at the end don’t have children but it brought tears rent Events, Thursdays at 10:00 a.m.; Mark Helprin. Join us on Wednesday, of life. Please join us. Temple Beth El to my eyes to see the parents holding Lunch & Learn, third Thursdays at February 6 in the TBE library at 2:45 cares.

and is made possible by Clinic. February 24 is Karaoke Sunday TEMPLE SHALOM the Lesleigh and Sylvia The exciting Temple Shalom Sis- with Jack Bernstein. Come and enjoy a Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands Hershkowitz Memorial terhood Game Day will be held on fun afternoon program starting at 5:00 The above activities are in addition (941) 625-2116 Fund. Monday, February 11 at 11:00 a.m. and p.m. A donation of $15 includes a pizza to our regular Friday night services, On Saturday, Febru- includes lunch, games and fun. Open and salad dinner. Torah Study, Brown Bag Lunches, www.templeshalomfl.com ary 9 at 6:00 p.m., the to all. Lunch and Learn will have a ses- Bowling, Mah Jongg, Rosh Chodesh temple will hold its gala The Jewish Film Festival contin- sion on Tuesday, February 26 from and more. Call the Temple office This at is another exciting month at Tem- art auction featuring wonderful works ues on Tuesday, February 19 at 3:00 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. Lunch is provided 239.772.4555 for more information. ple Shalom. On Sunday, February 3 at of art. This event is open to all. The p.m. Film to be announced. Refresh- along with a copy of the Forward. 5:00 p.m., there will be a special musi- donation is $36 per person or $65 per ments served. Donation: $5. There is no charge to attend. Please cal education program featuring con- couple. Complimentary unlimited hors Jewish music month will be ob- call the temple office if you wish to ductor Nir Kabaretti of the Southwest d’oeuvres, wine and beer included. served on Friday evening, February attend. The event is sponsored by the Florida Symphony Orchestra. Con- Come and enjoy a wonderful evening 22. Dr. David Katz will be leading this Lesleigh and Sylvia Hershkowitz Me- ductor Nir will have several principals benefiting Temple Shalom and the Vir- special program. An Oneg Shabat will morial Fund. with him. The program is open to all ginia B. Andes Volunteer Community follow. Center for Judaic, Holocaust, STAY IN TOUCH and Genocide Studies Sign up for e-blasts! Dedicated to educating all sectors of society about Jewish civilization, the Holocaust, and genocide through: • scholarship GET THE LATEST INFORMATION ON UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS, • outreach CULTURAL ACTIVITIES, • inquiry BREAKING NEWS, • sharing knowledge UPDATES FROM ISRAEL & MORE. • preserving the record • helping teachers • encouraging students

lcc.org a@jfed ypadill l to am n emai SenSendd a an email to Visit www.fgcu.edu/hc/ Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director [email protected] L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2019 32 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties

23rd Annual Jewish Film Festival

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Brian Simon

Neena & Jonas Kushner Sinus Institute of Southwest Florida Howard N. Barrow, MD

Helene & Jorge Glocer

Sara & Brian Krivisky Sylvia & Paul Simko Magdovitz Family Foundation John M. Wolf

Anonymous, Barbara & Barry Epstein, Carol & Irwin Friedman, Lynn Jaffe & Peter Goldberg, Andi & William Horowitz, Marsha & Mike Kistler, Lin & Ron Klein, Roberta & Jeffrey Kushner, Rozzi & John Osterman, Rabbi Marc & Leni Sack, Reeva & Ian Shaffer

Phyllis & Bernie Aronson, Joel & Jody Glick Altschule, Anonymous, Fran & Andrew Chernow, Judi & Richard H. Davis, Byron & Shirley Frank, H. Michael & Cheryl M. Goldstein, Carolyn Gora, Jim & JoAnn Lewin, Julia Perry, Jay Scott, Judith Yevick, Avner Yonai, Steve & Vicki Zellner