L Shana Tova

, L Shana Tova

FROM THE BOARD AND STAFF OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES

www.JewishFederationLCC.org Vol. 40, No. 1 n September 2017 / 5777-5778 Assisting the neediest in our community with the MARCIA CAN HELP fund By Alan Isaacs, Federation Executive Director received a phone call from Jack “Marcia volunteered all of her too ily Services currently provide Cohen of Sanibel recently. Jack short life. She served on the board of for emergency nutritional needs I and his late wife Marcia shared Temple Bat Yam on Sanibel Island, had through our Food Pantry and gift their time each year between Omaha various responsibilities at the Jewish card distribution, but is severely and Sanibel until Marcia passed away Federation of Omaha, and undertook limited in our ability to assist the in 2015. Marcia and Jack had been many other projects in Omaha and on neediest in our community with long-time supporters of social causes Sanibel,” said Jack. crisis grants to prevent utility cut- and the Jewish communities in Omaha “Marcia’s most memorable stint offs, evictions, loss of transporta- and here in Southwest Florida. Jack is was as principal on an Omaha TV sta- tion, and other essential services now a full-time resident of Sanibel. tion (channel 7) program called 7 Can without which none of us can live. Jack referred to articles about Help,” Jack continued. “She acted as Inspired by the recognition Jack and Marcia Cohen the Federation’s Jewish Family Ser- consumer advocate for people in the that these needs must be addressed already contributed the initial 50% and vices featured in last month’s issue community and interviewed organiza- in our community, and as a tribute to we challenge the community to reach of L’CHAYIM and the impact that tions dedicated to guiding people to Marcia Cohen, z”l, Jack Cohen and the 100% of this goal by the end of 2017. they had on him. “I was touched by the right solutions for their problems. Jewish Federation of Lee and Char- “I know my Marcia would bless the story about the aid our Federation Marcia was a people person and a good lotte Counties have established the this endeavor,” said Jack. provides to needy brethren in the Fort listener, and she enhanced people’s MARCIA CAN HELP fund and aim to For further information or to Myers area,” he said, and how he knew lives with her skills.” raise $28,000 that will be designated make a contribution, please call me at Marcia would have reacted. Our Federation and Jewish Fam- exclusively for this purpose. Jack has 239.481.4449 x7.

SAVE THE DATE BRIEFS LOW-COST AIRLINES THE BOYS ARE COMING TO TOWN! BOOST TOURISM TO EILAT Since the start of 2017, the number of international passengers from Europe arriving at Ovda airport near Eilat has risen by 33%. Most of the flights are operated SIX13 by Irish carrier Ryanair, Ural Airlines, Russia Airlines, Hungary’s Wizz Air, A Jewish KLM - Air France’s Transavia, Fin- land’s Finnair and the UK’s Monarch. A Cappella The coming winter season is ex- Group pected to see 88 flights per week, with the addition of Scandinavian carrier SAS, Ukraine Air and Russia’s Rossiya Young or old— you’ll love this FV. (Michal Raz-Chaimovich, Globes) group and love their music. AN ITALIAN JEWISH Everyone is invited — free of cost. REBIRTH While anti-Semitism is on the upswing Sunday, October 22 Sponsored by: in many parts of Europe, Judaism and Jews are experiencing a renaissance in Italy. 12:30 p.m. State support for Jews extends beyond helping to revive communities. Temple Beth El The federal government helped fi- nance the Italian translation of the first volume of the Talmud. 16225 Winkler Rd. Jewish food, including kosher Underwritten by a generous donor food, is suddenly chic. Restaurants in Rome’s Jewish ghetto are regularly more briefs on page 18

9701 Commerce Center Court POSTMASTER: NONPROFIT ORG Fort Myers, Florida 33908 DATED RELIGIOUS U.S. POSTAGE NEWS ITEMS. PAID TIME SENSITIVE– FT. MYERS, FL PLEASE EXPEDITE! PERMIT NO. 175 DELIVER TO CURRENT RESIDENT OR L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 2 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION Program notes In this issue: he programming year is about to begin and this annual event. we have some fun and exciting programs al- January 11- February 13: Our annual Jew- 7 Our Community ready planned with others still in the works! ish Film Festival of Southwest Florida will again be 10 Jewish Interest GetT your calendars ready to mark some of the coming held at the Regal Belltower Stadium 20 theaters. The season’s highlights. committee has been previewing films throughout the 18 Israel & the Jewish World Did you know that Israel will be turning 70 years summer and will soon make their final selections. old next spring?! We’ll be hav- Wednesday, February 21: For the third year in a 20 Marketplace ing programs throughout the row, we are partnering with the Alliance for the Arts year leading up to this birthday to sponsor an author event. Laurie Lico Albanese’s 22 Commentary milestone, culminating in a big book, Stolen Beauty, combines European Jewish his- 23 From the Bimah birthday blowout on Sunday, torical fiction with art. It’s a captivating story and a April 15, 2018. Be part of the perfect choice for our two agencies. We look forward 26 Focus on Youth festivities as we salute Israel as to welcoming Ms. Albanese. a nation of innovation. These highlights are only a small smattering of 27 Community Directory Monday, August 21: An what is planned. JFed Social Club, Jewish Young  Leni Sack SAT Prep class has begun at Professionals, PJ Library and Book Club events will 28 Organizations the Federation. Our instructors be held throughout the year. Holiday gift bags will be 30 Temple News do a great job of preparing students for this college sent to seniors in Lee and Charlotte counties. Plans entrance exam. A registration form and information for the annual campaign events in addition to the about the class is available in the “Focus on Youth” Community Breakfast – Pacesetters, Major Gifts and section in this issue, on our website or by contacting Lion of Judah – are underway. me. It’s not too late to register. We will have a makeup You can count on Marsha Kistler to have new class for anyone missing the first and/or second ses- dances to share on Sundays, when Israeli dancing sions. resumes. Don’t forget to bring your mahj card when Sunday, October 22: Well-known Jewish a cap- you come to the Federation on Tuesday afternoons to pella group Six13 will perform at Temple Beth El. play. Arthur Sissman, who recently came back from The event is underwritten by a generous donor and a meeting of the International Genealogy Society, has sponsored by the Jewish Federation, Temple Beth El new ideas to help you trace your ancestry on the first and Temple Judea. There is also an article about the Thursday of each month here at the Federation. group, as well as an ad in this issue of L’CHAYIM. Be sure to check out what is happening each Be sure to check out the group on YouTube and the month, not only at the Jewish Federation, but also at Internet. This is definitely a musical treat for all ages. the congregations and organizations in our area. Get Sunday, December 10: This year’s Commu- connected and stay connected to Jewish life in Lee nity Breakfast will be held at The Landings. A fab- and Charlotte counties. ulous guest speaker is scheduled to appear. Make I wish you all a very Happy and Healthy New sure you read upcoming issues of L’CHAYIM and Year. Shana Tova! I look forward to spending 5778 my weekly email blasts for more information about with you!

From Rozzi Osterman, Federation President ear friends, I hope you had a fun-filled summer. I spent a few weeks in Israel this Jewish news published monthly by summer with my sister and her family. Her youngest son Gilad is 21 Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties D 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, FL 33908 years old and now an officer in the IDF. Visiting with him and his fellow soldier (239) 481-4449 • Fax: (239) 481-0139 friends was delightful. They are bright, dedicated and proud of their military ser- Online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org  vice. They are also amazing at organizing, setting up for parties, and cleaning up! September 2017 • Volume 40, Number 1 It was difficult to see them pack up, put on uniforms, and carry their guns out the  door on Sunday mornings. Co-Presidents: Rozzi Osterman • Brian Simon Board: Paul Bartrop • Herb Fried • Carolyn Gora As we approach the High Holidays, I will, as always, be grateful for the sacri- Jerry Greenfield • Keith Grossman • Andi Horowitz fices that our collective Israeli family endures to maintain our Jewish nation. The Charles Idelson • Linda Idelson • Marsha Kistler Federation is celebrating the 70th anniversary of Israel with programs throughout the coming year. I look Sara Krivisky • Michele Laboda • JoAnn Lewin Barbara Siegel • Sylvia Simko • Sherri Zucker forward to sharing our programs with you. Executive Director: Alan Isaacs Fondly, Rozzi Program Director: Leni Sack Executive Assistant: Lori Ramos Jewish Family Services: Jodi Cohen  Editor/Designer: Ted Epstein (239) 249-0699 Advertising: Jim Lewin (239) 634-6923  L’CHAYIM invites correspondence on subjects of interest to Jewish people. Partisan political opinions will not be published, but opinions on subjects affecting the Jewish community are welcome. All inquiries regarding copy for L’CHAYIM should be directed to the editor. All news material must be very clearly printed or typed (not in all-capital letters) and double-spaced. Electronic submissions encouraged. The editor reserves the right to edit for space and content. Photographs should be clear, black-and-white or color prints. If you wish a photograph returned, include a stamped, self-addressed envelope of appropriate size. The Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties disclaims responsibility or endorsement of the views expressed by the writers and claims by advertisers.

OCTOBER ISSUE JEWISH FEDERATION EDITORIAL DEADLINE: FOOD PANTRY Tuesday, September 5 Following is a list of staples always in need at the food pantry: Grow your business Peanut butter and jelly Pasta sauce (pasta, not needed) with L’CHAYIM. Rice and beans Canned vegetables and fruits Cereal Canned meats Reach 5,000 local Condiments Toiletries for adults & children

Jewish residents Gift cards to places like Publix, Walmart, Target, etc., as well as cash donations, are also appreciated. through this paper. Jewish Family Services helps seniors, individuals and families with a variety of needs. For more information or to place an ad, call Jim For a continuously updated at 239.634.6923 calendar of events, visit or send an email to [email protected]. www.JewishFederationLCC.org. L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 OUR FEDERATION Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 3 Program notes There is no need to live in CONSTANT PAIN!

Providing leading edge treatment to relieve:

Sciatica Joint Arthritis Back Pain Spinal Stenosis Neck Pain Herniated Discs Neuralgia Sacral Fractures RSD/CRPS PostSurgical Pain Cancer Pain Spinal Pain and Auto Injuries Shingles Pain Vertebral Compression Fractures

Jonathan S. Daitch, MD

Michael E. Frey, MD

JEWISH FEDERATION Accepting New Patients! FOOD PANTRY

Following is a list of staples always in need at the food pantry: Peanut butter and jelly Pasta sauce (pasta, not needed) 239.437.8000 Rice and beans Canned vegetables and fruits

Cereal Canned meats

Condiments Toiletries for adults & children 8255 College Parkway Gift cards to places like Publix, Walmart, Target, etc., as well as cash donations, are also appreciated. Jewish Family Services helps seniors, individuals and families with a variety of needs. Fort Myers, FL 33919

For a continuously updated calendar of events, visit www.apmss.net Michael E. Frey, MD Jonathan S. Daitch, MD www.JewishFederationLCC.org. L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 4 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION

The Jewish Federation Annual Campaign provides the resources to strengthen and enrich our Jewish community locally, in Israel and around the world. YOUR SUPPORT Sunday Promote Strengthen & enrich Honor/ Share your KINDNESS JEWISH COMMarchMUNITY 1st Remember MITZVAH A LOVED ONE

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

Generous Donors: How the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties Serves Anonymous Angels Anonymous Angels Temple Beth El Local Jewish Education and Culture TempleTemple Judea Beth El Temple Judea  Communitywide Jewish Education and Culture Programs for MellowMellow Mah Mah Jongg Jongg Ladies Ladies all ages including the Jewish Film Festival, Jewish Author Events, Israel Celebration, Jewish genealogy, Israeli folk IsraeliIsraeli Dancers Dancers Andrea & Gene Sipe dancing, social groups, etc. Bev & Ed Drucker  L’CHAYIM published monthly to keep the Jewish community SandiJudith Falk Yevick informed about local, national and international Jewish issues. Senior Lunch Program update JimCascaders & JoAnn @ Lewin Riverhall  Community Relations activities include monitoring anti BonnieDan Berman Raitt & Wendy DePaul Semitism and issues of separation of church and state in the By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach Coordinator, and Helene Glocer HowardRobert Silverman& Bette Batson community. KathyBrenda Toll & Jacob Buck  Israel Advocacy and Initiatives to strengthen local Jewish ShalomBetty & Life Jim Center Rubenstein community ties with Israel. Holocaust Education through the Howard Silverman Phyllis Silver Henkel Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida to middle and high Shalom Life Center school students in the community. FamilyDiane ofKaiman Linda Bonito RuthVictor Lefberg Gold Overseas Mort Naiman  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.

TRIBUTES Local Seniors Services  In memory of Helene Kramer Holiday baskets and teen visits to seniors and senior facilities for Rosh Hashanah, Hanukah and Passover. from Sandi Falk  Seniors & Volunteers Lunch Program. from JoAnn & Jim Lewin  Emerging and pressing needs related to senior housing, health and socialization.

OBITUARY Local Case Management Services  Nonsectarian, individual and family outreach, information and Harriet Flo Beylin: The leadership and staff of the Jewish Federation of Lee referral services. and Charlotte Counties extend condolences to the family of Harriet Flo Beylin  Individual life coaching and support services. of Fort Myers, who passed away on Wednesday, July 19, 2017. She was 91 years old. Harriet was born on April 19, 1926 in Cleveland, Ohio, the daughter Local Emergency Services  Food Pantry. of Sylvia (Pickus) and Phillip Meyers. She leaves behind her daughter, Stacy B.  Emergency financial assistance. Prater of Fort Myers, a number of extended family members, and a multitude  Education and aid associated with natural disasters. of others who were proud to call her a friend. Local Community Services Each month, L’CHAYIM will list your Tributes.  Support families of children with special needs. Please send them to Lori Ramos  SAT preparatory classes for high school students.  Volunteerism. at the Federation at [email protected].  Organizational Collaboration.  Assessment and Planning.

Jewish Community Foundation Senior Outreach Program  An endowment that ensures the longterm financial base of charitable, social and educational programs in our community.  Needsbased college scholarships and study scholarships in Israel.  Projects and programs aimed at Jewish community enrichment.

Come out for lunch, see familiar faces and meet new friends at our monthly senior lunches. UPCOMING DATES Thursday, September 14th, 12 PM Temple Beth Shalom 702 SE 24th Ave., Cape Coral (rsvp by Sept. 11th)

Thursday, October 19th, 12 PM Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Community Free Synagogue 10868 Metro Pkwy, Fort Myers (rsvp by Oct. 16th) RSVP to: Grants Available

Jodi Cohen

Tuesday, November 14th, 12 PM 239.481.4449, #6 OR

[email protected] Shalom Life Center 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers (rsvp by Nov. 10th) The Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Grant is available through the Community Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. The grant may be used for travel to Let us know if you will be driving or if you Israel to participate in programs that are volunteer or would like a volunteer to pick you up. www.jewishfederationlcc.org educational in nature. Our hope is that these programs will enhance Jewish knowledge and identity in preparation for participation in American Jewish life. This grant is for Jewish residents of either county who are 25 years old or younger ConneCt and can demonstrate a financial need. Academic standing with your Jewish Community and community involvement may also be considered. For more information or an application, please visit our website at www.JewishFederationLCC.org or contact the Federation at www.facebook.com/ 239-481-4449, ext. 4 or email [email protected]. facebook.com/jfedsrqJewishFederationLCC L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 OUR FEDERATION Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 5

The Jewish Federation Annual Campaign provides the resources to Six13: The boys are coming to town! strengthen and enrich our Jewish community locally, in Israel and around the world. By Leni Sack YOUR SUPPORT ix13 is a groundbreaking, six- tional media. The group has been fea- Council of Young Israel and Moment around the world for millions to rave Strengthen &Sunday enrich man a capella vocal band that tured in national television and press, magazine, and awards from musi- reviews and standing ovations. And Promote brings an unprecedented style including The Today Show, The View, cal organizations like the Harmony they will be in Fort Myers performing Share your JEWISH COMMUNITY S Honor/ KINDNESS March 1st of Jewish music to the stage. Their CBS, CNN, Huffington Post, Time Sweepstakes and the Contemporary A for us! Remember MITZVAH songs range from hip-hop dance tracks magazine and more. They have per- Cappella Society of America. Don’t miss this incredible event. A LOVED ONE to rock anthems. The members of the formed at the White House and are Six13 has made appearances It’s free! It’s for all ages! It’s for us! New York City-based group sound like three-time finalists in casting for pri- a full band – while using nothing but metime TV’s The Sing-Off. Music from their voices. their seven award-winning albums has This year please consider making an additional campaign contribution in honor or in memory of a loved one. Six13 will be performing in our been adapted by choirs worldwide and Because kindness is contagious we would like to highlight your generosity in L’CHAYIM and notify personally those whom community on Sunday, October 22 at played on mainstream radio across the you honor. You may choose how your generosity is noted and how we share your mitzvah with our community. 12:30 p.m. at Temple Beth El. This globe. Bruno Mars liked their Passover special concert is underwritten by a version of his song so much, he posted generous donor who wishes to remain it on his own Facebook page. anonymous, and sponsored by the Jew- Six13 is among the top Jewish mu- ish Federation, Temple Beth El and sic artists on iTunes and their songs Temple Judea. have been chosen for ten “best-of” Six13 is a national phenomenon compilations to date. They have re- both on the Internet (with over 8 mil- ceived distinctions and accolades from lion views on YouTube) and in tradi- Jewish organizations like the National Senior Lunch Program update By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach Coordinator, and Helene Glocer here is an excitement at the children’s Hebrew teacher from 20 in the room and we have come to think lunches are free and rides are available. monthly senior lunches, a buzz years ago, and Helene met the lawyer of the Senior Lunch Bunch program as The next one is Thursday, September Tin the air, as people walk in and who helped her close on her house 32 a Lovefest – with food! 14 at noon at Temple Beth Shalom in greet friends, new and old. We liken it years ago. In July we had a speaker from the Cape Coral. You can make a reserva- to being at the popular kids’ table. It Whether you’re making new Lee County Sheriff’s office who talked tion by calling Jodi Cohen at the Jew- is definitely where the action is every friends, catching up with old friends about personal safety. Previous pro- ish Federation at 239.481.4449 x6 or month. you haven’t seen in many years, or grams have included Jewish-themed via email at [email protected]. Helene Glocer, one of the lunch finding people from the same place “up games, art, music, and programs on the Please let us know if you need a ride or founders, was struck by something else north” who have friends in common with holidays. The location changes every can give someone else a ride. If you are at the July lunch: people coming to- you, the human connection is an incred- month as the lunch travels around to willing and able to help set up or clean gether for the first time in many years. ible experience for both the volunteers local synagogues. up, please contact Sherri Zucker at For instance, one volunteer found her and the seniors. There is a palpable joy We invite you to join us – the 239.980.5760 or [email protected].

WEEKLY ISRAELI DANCING

Dancing will resume in the fall of 2017

All ages (10 to 96) are welcome to join us. All levels of dance

experience are welcome. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a water bottle

BRING A FRIEND! Karol & Steven Karpf Toni & Steve Goodman Judith Yevick See you Sundays. RSVP a must by Fridays at noon to Marsha Kistler [email protected]

Kathy Rena & Harry Shapiro Jacob Rubin & Family Joel Shapiro

Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Grants Available Needed to label L’Chayim

Needed to label L’Chayim

join us for coffee, bagels and the simple satisfaction

Naomi Bloom & Ron Wallace that comes from meeting and making friends with join us for coffee, bagels and the simple satisfaction The Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Grant is available through thatother comes volunteers, from asmeeting we help and keep making thousands friends of localwith the Community Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Lee otherreaders volunteers, informed as about we help local, keep national thousands and interna-of local and Charlotte Counties. The grant may be used for travel to tional Jewish news. Israel to participate in programs that are volunteer or readers informed about local, national and interna- educational in nature. Our hope is that these programs will tional Jewish news. enhance Jewish knowledge and identity in preparation for Call 481.4449 ext. 3 to add your name to the participation in American Jewish life. This grant is for Jewish phone list. Each month we will call to confirm residents of either county who are 25 years old or younger Call 481.4449 ext. 3 to add your name to the and can demonstrate a financial need. Academic standing phonethe mailing list. Each date month and you we canwill calllet usto knowconfirm if and community involvement may also be considered. For theyou mailingare available date toand help you label can Llet’CHAYIM. us know if more information or an application, please visit our website at Robin Kessler & Ray Epstein you are available to help label L’CHAYIM. www.JewishFederationLCC.org or contact the Federation at Time: 9:30 A.M. 239-481-4449, ext. 4 or email [email protected]. Time: 9:30 A.M. Look for more New Year greetings from members Tuesday, September 26, 2017 TuesdayMonday, ,September October 23, 26, 2017 2017 of our Jewish community throughout this issue. Monday, October 23, 2017 L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 6 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION Remembering Helene Kramer, Federation’s first Executive Director By Carolyn Gora, Randy Kashi and Sheila Laboda t is with great sorrow that we in- Barbara Carlin. Shortly following that expansion of our Jewish identity and form you of the passing of Helene meeting, Helene was hired to become recognition in Lee and Charlotte coun- IKramer, the first Executive Direc- our Executive Director.” ties. I am happy to say I had the honor tor of our Jewish Federation, on June Dr. Larry Eisenfeld, Former Cam- to work with her during her time as 23, 2017. paign Chairman and Past President, Executive Director of the Federation. In the mid-1980s the Lee County said that, “Helene came to Fort My- She helped pave the way for future Federation was in its infancy. The ers at a crucial time for the growth Executive Directors – Annette Good- Jewish community was growing and of our Jewish community. Sheila La- man, Dan Berman and Alan Isaacs – to needed a professional to guide us. He- boda had been the volunteer President continue our growth as a Jewish com- lene was the perfect person to take it and chief cook and bottle washer for munity. She will be greatly missed, but to the next level. Helene’s impact on several years. She brought us to the not forgotten.” our community helped shape today’s point where we needed to hire a full- Guy Whitesman, Past President, Jewish Federation of Lee and Char- time paid professional to continue recalls, “Helene instigated the first Lee lotte Counties. So many people have our growth. Helene entered our com- County Jewish Federation Mission to Helene Kramer fond memories and stories. Below munity and was an immediate good Israel during my year as President. It much bigger Federation, she had many are quotes of some of the people who fit. Under her leadership we began an was in May/June of 1992. I was a little new ideas to help us grow. worked with her. exponential growth. Many new pro- skeptical as to whether we could attract “One of her ideas involved me per- As the first President of the Fed- grams were added to the Federation. enough people to make it work given sonally. She asked me to be the first eration, Sheila Laboda worked with Our campaign more than doubled dur- the time and monetary commitment. President of the Women’s Division of Helene on a daily basis. She stated ing her administration. I was fortunate She was adamant that it would enhance Federation. Her idea was to get more that, “The Jewish Federation of Lee to be the Campaign Chairman during our members’ commitments to the Fed- women involved and to understand the County was incorporated in 1984. Dur- some of those years, when we brought eration and Israel. Helene was right, importance of making their own gift ing the second year of my presidency, in nationally-acclaimed speakers and and with her marketing skills we filled in addition to a family gift. While this a group of moms with young children dignitaries who spoke to crowds in the a tour bus with our members. My wife seemed like a stretch for me, Helene approached me about having a Fed- hundreds. We also had our first Feder- Ilene joined us after a day or two into helped me every step of the way and eration-sponsored Jewish day camp. ation-sponsored Bar/Bat Mitzvah Mis- the mission, after giving birth to Joey tapped some leadership qualities in me I remember having lunch with them sion to Israel in conjunction with our a few weeks prior. Helene arranged that I didn’t even know existed. I am and stating, ‘If you want to have a day partner communities. We were able for her favorite tour guide in Israel, very thankful for that. Helene was a camp and are willing to become the to get the Fort Myers school calendar ‘Peach.’” master at getting people in our commu- committee for it, the Federation board committee to have a “holiday day” for Terri Eisenfeld remembered that, nity to step up and get involved. That will do whatever possible to provide one of our High Holidays, and to ex- “Helene Kramer came to our commu- quality helped our Federation grow. funding toward the camp.’ There was cuse Jewish children from having tests nity at a crucial time for the growth of “During her tenure as Executive no opposition. or homework required on those days. our Jewish Federation. She had been Director, Helene organized a Bar/Bat I became aware that the Sarasota This effort now continues every year part of the professional staff of the Mitzvah Mission that was part of a Federation already had a successful by our Federation representatives to Sarasota Federation, and when con- larger mission. Helene handled every- summer day camp. Its Program Direc- maintain that excused time from the tacted by Sheila Laboda for help in the thing – any missteps, informational tor was Helene Kramer. After a phone School Board. startup of our Camp Genesis, she was needs, anything to make the trip mem- call to Helene, a group of us drove to “Helene was a gentle giant. She more than happy to give us any help we orable and easy. All that was required Sarasota to gather any information rel- stood her ground firmly for the battles needed in that endeavor. Shortly after of us was to enjoy and learn. It was our ative to running a non-denominational that were necessary to fight and win, that she was recruited and became the family’s first trip to Israel, and one we day camp in Fort Myers. That delega- but was respectful and wise in mak- first paid professional of our Federa- will never forget.” tion consisted of me, Carolyn Gora, ing those choices. She expanded the tion. Helene was a real go-getter and Carol Glazer remembers, “I began Lori Kantor, Lois Geisler, Terri Eisen- link to our partner communities and to jumped in with both feet. She was a as the Russian Resettlement Coordina- feld, Pam Arkin, Peggy Freedman and Israel. She was an integral part in the fresh face, and with her experience at a continued on next page

A REFORM JEWISH CONGREGATION SERVING SANIBEL, CAPTIVA, FORT MYERS & SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES Bat Yam Temple of the Islands 2017 – HIGH HOLY DAYS WORSHIP – 5778 RABBI STEPHEN FUCHS will officiate at Bat Yam High Holy Days services. He comes to Bat Yam after pulpits in West Hartford, CT, Nashville, TN and Columbia, MD. He has authored several books and articles, lectured internationally, and is a strong proponent of inter- faith relations. GREGORY WATSON will serve as Cantorial Soloist. He has been the cantorial soloist with Temple Beth El in Pensacola, FL, as well as a soloist, chorister and chorus master with the Pensacola Opera. ABIGAIL ALLISON will provide piano accompaniment. All services are held in the Fellowship Hall of the SANIBEL CONGREGATIONAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST, 2050 PERIWINKLE WAY, SANIBEL. NO TICKETS ARE REQUIRED for services, but donations are welcome. For more information, visit BATYAM.ORG. Selichot EVENING SERVICE Saturday, September 16 at 7:30pm Rosh Hashanah EVENING SERVICE Wednesday, September 20 at 7:30pm Sermon topic: Why did Rosh Hashanah Become so Important? MORNING SERVICE Thursday, September 21 at 10:00am Sermon topic: The Binding of Isaac: Our Most Troubling Story TASHLICH (casting out of sins) following the morning service, location TBA Yom Kippur KOL NIDRE Friday, September 29 at 7:30pm • Sermon topic: The Magic Word for Repentance MORNING SERVICE Saturday, September 30 at 10:00am • Sermon topic: Jonah’s Message to Us CONGREGANTS’ HOUR following the morning service • featuring reflections from three congregants SERVICE OF MUSIC & MEDITATION 3:00pm • featuring cellist Susannah Kelly and pianist Abigail Allison AFTERNOON SERVICE 4:00pm • includes a discussion of the Book of Jonah, the Yom Kippur afternoon Haftorah • Yizkor/Memorial service • Sermon topic: Where Are Our Relatives Now? • Ne’ilah/Closing service BREAK-THE-FAST 6:00pm in the Church Hall • Reservations required, contact Marcia Rudin at [email protected]

Best wishes for a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year to our Bat Yam family and friends, whether in SWFL or elsewhere! L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 OUR FEDERATION Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 7 continued from previous page tor. When we moved into our first office the Russian communities there. on Presidential Court, my title changed “Basically, ‘no’ was not in He- The Community Free Synagogue to Administrative Assistant. In 1992, I lene’s vocabulary and no idea was too was made the first Program Director. crazy if more than one member of the Welcomes You! Helene provided me free reign to de- Federation wanted it.” sign any programs as long as I could Rozzi Osterman, our current Co- Selihot: 8:00PM Saturday September 16 figure out how to keep the participant President, recalls her first impression cost low and find sponsors to pay for of Fort Myers as follows: “In 1993, Preceded by Havdallah and a Melaveh Malkah at 7:30 PM them, as I really never had a budget to my husband John was offered a posi- do anything. After the move to Presi- tion in Fort Myers and we needed to Rosh Hashanah: dential Court, programs included Yid- make sure there was a Jewish presence 7:00 PM Wednesday September 20 dish Club, bridge, yoga, the first mini in town before we could make a deci- book fair, and summer kids’ programs sion. We entered the Federation office 10:00 AM Thursday September 21 such as magic and karate. and were greeted by a petite, feisty 4:00 PM September 21: Tashlikh and Rabbi’s Open House “The Russian Resettlement Project and very determined Helene Kramer. led to the formation of the Jewish Fed- Her energy was almost overwhelming Yom Kippur: eration of Lee and Charlotte Counties. and she wholeheartedly convinced us 7:00 P M Friday September 29 Initially, three Russian families settled that Fort Myers was the perfect place in Lee County. Subsequent to their ar- to raise a Jewish family. I joined the Saturday September 30 rival, the majority of requests were to Federation board and my family has help bring family members to join Rus- been active ever since. Each Execu- 10:00 AM Morning Worship sians who came to the United States tive Director has added a new dimen- 2:30 PM Study with the Rabbi back in the ’70s and ’80s and settled sion to our Jewish community. Helene in Charlotte County. We resettled four opened doors for our future, and gifted 4:00 PM Minhah, Yizkor and Ne’ilah more families in Charlotte County and our Jewish community with her energy Complimentary Break-the-Fast after worship two more in Lee County. Only three of and vision.” the families did not remain in South- Helene left a large imprint in our west Florida. Those that left went to community, and her legacy is the suc- It’s All Free! Chicago and Los Angeles to be with cess our Federation enjoys today. Safe and ample off-street parking 10868 Metro Parkway (The Masonic Center) (239) 274-7485 www.fortmyerssynagogue.com

Stay in touch throughout the month. Sign up for the Federation’s e-blasts. Richard & Joan Davis & Family Barbara Amar & Family Get the latest information on upcoming community events and cultural activities, breaking news items, updates from Israel and lots more. Send an email to Sol & Shirley Soloway Linda & Jeff Shuster [email protected]

ROSH HASHANAH Rozzi & the Osterman Family GIFT BAGS

VOLUNTEER to help pack and deliver Rosh Hashanah gift bags to the Jewish residents in our community living in independent,

Robert & Bette Batson The Bendetowicz Family assisted living and nursing homes in Lee & Charlotte counties. The residents enjoy not only the contents of the gift bags, they love being visited by the community members who deliver them. Student volunteers can earn community service hours.

 Bags will be packed on Wednesday, September 13 at 11:00 a.m.

 Bags will be delivered on Sunday, September, 17

 Volunteers can pick up the bags from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The Arkin Family (Other pick-up and delivery times can be arranged if needed.)

This is an opportunity for all family members to get involved. Seniors love having young children visit. From babies to bubbes, this is a mitzvah the whole family can do together.

RSVP [email protected] or 239.481.4449 x3 WhatWhat better better way to waystart tothe start new year Tricia & Frank Aulls Henry Smernoff & Family withthe newthis mitzvah! year ! L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 8 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR COMMUNITY Temple Judea welcomes sh’lichah Holocaust Museum & Education Center of SWFL to build connection with Israel welcomes its new Executive Director, Susan L. Suarez By Rabbi Marc Sack he Museum has important news or her tour of duty in the Israeli ily in Beer Sheva, Zohar was inspired on-one interviews with every member to share with you. This summer, Air Force, Zohar Ben Hamu was to be a sh’lichah by an older sister who of the moshav to hear their concerns. Tafter 14 years of dedicated ser- stationed at the IAF’s School served at a summer camp in Canada. From the information she collected, vice and leadership with the Museum, F Executive Director Amy Snyder re- of Technical Professions where she Her sister came back with a strong she developed new youth activities worked with soldiers-at-risk, teenagers sense of service to the Jewish people and engaged the adults in supporting signed to accept a new post as Director who were new to Israel or who were and Zohar wanted this experience too. the teenagers. At the beginning of this of Education Programs for Champions disciplined for an infraction. One sol- The youngest of three girls, Zohar’s project, four people came to a moshav For Learning, the Education Foundation dier, just released from military prison, family is close-knit. She spends Shab- Chanukah party. By the end, two hun- of Collier County. In her new role, Amy came to her office, sat down and said, bat with her nieces and nephews, tak- dred attended the Yom HaAtzmaut cel- will focus on development of programs “I’ve failed with everyone else. It will ing them to the playground or baking ebration. to support teachers throughout Collier be no different with you.” Zohar- re cookies. For holidays, she plans spe- Zohar keeps a busy schedule, at- County, including Holocaust Studies sponded, “It will be different because cial outings. Recently, for Shavuot, she tending class at the Ashkelon Aca- programs. We are grateful to Amy for when we are finished working togeth- took the children to a moshav where demic College in addition to her work her many contributions in bringing the er, you will be at the top of the class.” they rode on tractors and prepared a on the moshav. Still, she finds time to Zohar Ben Hamu Museum and our education programs The soldier soon realized that, unlike holiday dairy meal. have fun. When not with family, Zohar Zohar Ben Hamu brings her en-to their present level of success. Under others, she would not give up on him. Zohar brings this same experiential can be found at a soccer match, cheer- ergy, creativity, love of Israel and big Amy’s leadership, our education pro- He graduated his program receiving approach to her work, conveying con- ing on her Beer Sheva home team that smile to Temple Judea and the greatergrams expanded to a six-county area the Certificate of Excellence. It was tent in creative ways. She plans activi- won the Israeli soccer championship Jewish community. The congregationin Southwest Florida, impacting over through her work with soldiers-at-risk ties that are both fun and educational. this year, hiking with friends, or attend- will host a series of welcome activities175,000 students in grades K-12 as well that Zohar was drawn to the field of More than building confidence and ing a Zumba class. when all are encouraged to meet her. as college/university. We wish Amy social work. self-respect, Zohar also teaches lead- Later, while doing a field place- ership skills. She currently oversees ment for her university studies, she an afterschool program on a moshav PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT worked with students with learning where she teaches teenagers how to disabilities, helping them do home- prepare activities for younger children. OUR FEDERATION & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE. work assignments and prepare for ex- She guides them to imagine how the ams. One girl from Ethiopia believed children will enjoy and learn from the she would always fail. She called activity. This month’s Zohar every time she got a good grade For another program, she led the to tell her how surprised she was. teenagers to develop a questionnaire advertisers But Zohar was not surprised. She be- for the entire community about pro- This publication is brought to you each month thanks to the support lieved in her students and helped them grams they would participate in. The of our advertisers. Please be sure to use their products and services, achieve. students then published an article in and mention that you found them in L’CHAYIM. Zohar Ben Hamu arrives in Fort the moshav newsletter with the results. Myers at the end of the August to be Along the way, Zohar taught the skills Advanced Pain Management...... 3 Living Happily Counseling...... 21 the sh’lichah, the “emissary” of the of community leadership. Alliance Financial Group...... 21 Charles Massie, CPA, CFP®.....21 Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) to What Zohar wants most to teach Art of Fashion and Moore...... 21 Mathematics Tutoring...... 21 serve at Temple Judea. Her mission is about life in Israel is how people thrive Gwen Baker, Realtor®...... 21 Michael Shapiro Photography...24 fostering a strong connection with Is- when they are connected to communi- Bat Yam Temple of the Islands...6 Miss Kelly’s Dance Centre...... 26 rael among the children and adults of ty. In one of her social work field place- Dr. Daniel Bendetowicz...... 20 Paragon Pools...... 20 the congregation and the greater Lee ments, she served on a moshav where Candlewood Suites...... 12 PCC Tile...... 20 County Jewish community. people were not showing up for com- Cypress Cove...... 17 Publix...... 32 Raised in a Moroccan Jewish fam- munal events. Zohar conducted one- Harold Eskin, Attorney...... 20 Alan J. Rubinstein, Attorney.....20 Eureka Painting...... 21 Senior Housing Solutions...... 13 Joseph Faerber, Attorney...... 20 Seniors Helping Seniors...... 21 FineMark Natl. Bank & Trust....18 Snyderman’s Shoes...... 21 L’CHAYIM delivers! Florida Gulf Coast University...24 Douglas Spiegel, Attorney...... 21 Florida Specialists in Urology...20 Taschner Periodontics...... 13 Introduce your business to a POWERFUL Susan Glasser, Realtor®...... 13 Temple Beth El...... 11 demographic and reach 5,000 readers Gordon’s Pool & Spa Service....20 Temple Beth El Gift Gallery....14 Green Schoenfeld & Kyle, LLP..21 Temple Beth Shalom...... 15 each month for pennies per reader! Gulf Coast Orthodontics...... 9 Temple Judea...... 8,9,16 Dr. David Heligman...... 22 The Community Free Synagogue.7 For ad rates and deadlines, contact Henderson Franklin...... 20 Top of the Line Concierge...... 21 Higginson Tax & Accounting....20 Bob Vinikoor, Realtor®...... 21 Jim Lewin at 239.634.6923 or Hodges Funeral Home...... 16 Adrienne Weiner, Realtor®...... 21 JNF...... 19 Paul Weinstein, CFP®...... 20 [email protected]. Lee Lighting...... 20

Religious School and Community Open House August 27, 2017 (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM) Community Meet and Greet Open House ______September 10, 2017 (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) Come learn about our exciting community. ______Marc Sack - Rabbi Religious School and Youth Groups Liz Singer – Director of Congregational Preschool Learning Adult Learning Avi Gev – Music Director Morning Minyan Zohar Ben Hamu – Sh’lichah Chaverot Women’s Group Representatives From: Hazak for 55 + Chaverot Monthly Torah Study Hazak Shabbat Evening Services Preschool Monthly Musical Qabalat Shabbat Temple Judea Board Shabbat Morning Services and Kiddush Luncheon Tikkun Olam/Social Action Israeli Sh’lichah

Want to learn more, but can’t make the open houses? Please call the office to set up an appointment! Temple Judea 14486 A and W Bulb Road Fort Myers, FL 33908 (239) 433-0201 [email protected] L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 OUR COMMUNITY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 9 Holocaust Museum & Education Center of SWFL welcomes its new Executive Director, Susan L. Suarez he Museum has important news the best, and all of us will miss her! playing our wonderful Painting the to share with you. This summer, Please join us in welcoming our new Irena Sendler Story exhibit with a new after 14 years of dedicated ser- Executive Director, Susan L. Suarez, twist. Over the past year, as this story T th vice and leadership with the Museum, who joined our Museum team on Mon- was told in many 5 grade classrooms Executive Director Amy Snyder re- day, August 14. We are so pleased to across Collier County, the students signed to accept a new post as Director have her on board, as she brings a wealth wrote haiku poems about this real-life of Education Programs for Champions of experience to her new position. wonder woman. A selection of these For Learning, the Education Foundation Susan founded Suarez & Associ- poems will be included in the redesigned of Collier County. In her new role, Amy ates, a consulting firm dedicated to panels that accompany the paintings. will focus on development of programs helping nonprofit organizations improve The artwork was created by artist/illus- to support teachers throughout Collier their fundraising, marketing, strategy trator Bill Farnsworth for the children’s County, including Holocaust Studies and governance. She has 30 years of book by author Susan Goldman Rubin, programs. We are grateful to Amy for nonprofit experience as both an ex- Irena Sendler and the Children of the her many contributions in bringing the ecutive and consultant. Her experience Warsaw Ghetto. Painting the Irena Museum and our education programs includes serving as Executive Director Sendler Story will be on display from to their present level of success. Under of Eden Autism Services Florida, CEO September 5 through December 18. Amy’s leadership, our education proof the Community Foundation of Col- We invite you to learn more about grams expanded to a six-county area lier County, Vice President of Develop- Irena during a special screening of the – Collier County” by the Best of the in Southwest Florida, impacting over ment and Marketing for the Community filmIrena Sendler: In the Name of Their Gulfshore 2017 readers’ poll in Gulf- 175,000 students in grades K-12 as well Foundation Silicon Valley, and Assistant Mothers. It will be shown at 6:30 p.m. shore Life Magazine. The Museum also as college/university. We wish Amy Executive Director of the American on Sunday, October 22 at St. Agnes received its third annual “Certificate of Red Cross in Palo Alto, Parish Center, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Excellence” from TripAdvisor “for the California. Road, Naples. The screening is open consistent achievement of high ratings PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT As a consultant, to the public, free of charge, and co- from travelers.” We are so excited and Susan has worked with sponsored by the Catholic-Jewish Dia- honored for the award and recognition, OUR FEDERATION & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE. dozens of nonprofit or- logue of Collier County and GenShoah and thank all of you for your support of ganizations throughout of SWFL. RSVP to the Catholic-Jewish the Museum and its programs over the Southwest Florida, and Dialogue at [email protected]. years. We hope you will pay us a visit community foundations As you may know, the Museum again soon! throughout the United was recently named “Best Museum States. We know you will enjoy meeting Susan as Studying family history brings more than just historical knowledge, she shares her plans to it builds relationships. Learning the stories behind names and dates move the Museum for- teaches a personal history that explains more than just how each ward in the years ahead. person came to be. EVERYONE WELCOME.

Artist Bill Farnsworth discusses his work at the Museum This fall, we are dis- Jewish Genealogy SIG (Special Interest Group) Next meeting: Thursday, September 14 10:00 11:30 a.m.

LEARN HOW TO BEGIN RESEARCH INTO YOUR FAMILY’S HISTORY OR GET HELP FINDING NEW STRATEGIES TO ENHANCE THE SEARCH

YOU HAVE ALREADY STARTED.

Each Tuesday afternoon, an open session of Mah Jongg There is no cost to attend.RSVPs are a must to Arthur at [email protected] is held at the Jewish Federation. Meetings are held at the Jewish Federation ● 9701 Commerce Center Ct. ● Fort Myers 33908

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

DAY: Tuesdays, 12:30~3:30 P.M. FEE: $1 per week

for more information call Rona Strausberg at 239.949.9003

2017/5778 HIGH HOLY DAYS SCHEDULE Selichot Yom Kippur Saturday, September 16 Saturday, September 30 9:00pm Reception, Concert featuring 9:30am Congregational Service and Child Care Dr. Jonathan Daitch and Service 10:30am Youth Service 4:30pm Afternoon Discussion 5:30 pm Minchah/N’ilah/Havdalah Rosh Hashanah 7:41pm Shofar Blowing 14486 A & W Bulb Road Wednesday, September 20 Fort Myers, FL 33908 6:00pm Family Service – Open to community Sukkot 6:30 pm Congregational Service Thursday, October 5

Thursday, September 21 9:30am Service For more information and 9:30am Congregational Service and Child Care High Holiday tickets, please 10:30am Youth Service Friday, October 6 4:30pm Tashlich 6:30pm Shabbat Sukkot call the Temple Judea Office Consecration, Sukkot Dinner at 239-433-0201 Friday, September 22 9:30am Congregational Family Service Wednesday, October 11 5:30pm Spaghetti Dinner & Erev Simchat Torah www.tjswfl.org Kol Nidre Thursday, October 12

Friday, September 29 9:30 am Sh’mini Atzeret/Simchat Torah 6:30pm Family Service – Open to community (includes Yizkor) 7:00 pm Congregational Service

All services conducted by Rabbi Marc Sack L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 10 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Second labels – the best-kept secret By The Wine Whisperer e all want to enjoy great saries, births, or in the company of ers offer second labels such asEcho de tastings for many years. Medium ruby wine, but not all of us want people who open similar bottles Lynch-Bages. Not to be outdone, Ital- color with lots of red berries and fine, Wto fork over a mortgage for us. ian premium winemaker Sassicaia of- silky tannins. WW 95 payment for a big Bordeaux or Super But it’s still possible to find and en- fers Guado al Tasso, which is priced at Lucente 2014 ($18) – is a great Tuscan. Fortunately, there are less ex- joy high-quality wines made by glob- a fraction of their top-end wine. value. This “super Tuscan” is a blend pensive alternatives. ally famous wineries. They’re called In America, things are a bit differ- of Sangiovese and Merlot, and the new I suppose there are people who second and even third labels. ent. Wineries generally make several oak aging gives it black cherry, vanilla drink major bottles as an everyday World-class wineries such as Cha- wines in many price categories. There and coffee aromas and flavors. WW 90 matter. A thou- teauMargaux or Screaming Eagle care- is Caymus, which is a reasonably Ask the Wine Whisperer sand dollars to fully sort their grapes by hand dur- priced California Cabernet at about A restaurant we went to had “Draft them is like ten ing harvest. Since grapes don’t ripen $65. Then there’s Caymus “Special Se- Wine” on the list. I had never heard of dollars to the evenly in bunches, this is a painstaking lection,” which will set you back over it so I ordered a cab/syrah/merlot blend rest of us. Just a and laborious process. The first quality $250. called Triple Threat. The waiter didn’t matter of scale grapes are selected for the major label. The Italians are especially good at know what draft was or the winery this and proportion. The remaining grapes are sorted this, so watch for these comparative came from. It was surprisingly pleas- But those people again, and the best ones are retained bargains, and sample a few on those ant. Have you heard of draft wines be- don’t live at our and vinified for the second label, occasions that call for something a bit fore? – Marna L., Seattle  Jerry house. which is sold at a fraction of the price. more special. Some very prestigious wineries Greenfield We divide For example, a bottle of 2005 Chateau Until then, here’s just the kind of are now putting their wine in kegs for our meager collection into maybe three Margaux, a Grand Cru Bordeaux, costs second label to look for: use in restaurant by-the-glass service. parts: around $700. Their second label, Pavil- Le Volte dell’Ornellaia Red Blend This preserves the wine much better Everyday drinking wines, like the lon Rouge du Chateau Margaux, is go- Tuscany 2015 ($30) – The top wine than leaving opened half-bottles stand- corks we pop when we get home ing for about $170. Not cheap, but not from Ornellaia sells for around $250 a ing around, and does not affect quality. from work after a bad day…or any completely outrageous. bottle, so this is one of their value la- I wouldn’t be hesitant to order a draft kind of day. These are generally Here’s a bit of help for when you’re bels…and it is a value. Dark ruby color wine anywhere it’s offered. under $20-$25 a bottle. ready to buy something really nice, but in the glass with interesting aromas of Jerry Greenfield is The Wine Whisper- Somewhat special wines that we’ll not insanely priced, for that birthday, milk chocolate and faint pine. Dark er. He is Creative Director of Green- enjoy if some part of our lives has anniversary or holiday. red plum on the palate, along with wet field Advertising Group, and Wine gone exceptionally well that day or The most highly-prized and expen- stones and bright mixed fruit. Very Director of the international Direct week. Something like we signed a sive Bordeaux wines have second la- drinkable young, and great wine for the Cellars wine club, His book, Secrets of new client. bels, such as the above-mentioned Pa- price. WW 90 the Wine Whisperer, is now available The collectibles…wines we’ve villon Rouge du Chateau Margaux, Also from Ornellaia, there’s Le through his website. Read his other purchased over the years that have Carruades de Lafite, Les Forts de Serre Nuove ($75) – a bit higher writings at www.winewhisperer.com. increased insanely in value. These LaTour, and La Mission Haut Brion. priced, but this wine has outscored we open only to celebrate anniver- Other well-known Bordeaux produc- even the top Bordeaux in competitive

Linda Sweet, Dan Zevin & Family Rabbi & Mrs. Steve Bernstein Allen & Elizabeth Shevack Moroccan-Inspired Tzimmes – recipe by Dalia Hemed osh Hashanah is the celebra- Chicken Soup, couscous, Apple Hon- • 1 lb parsnips tion of the Jewish New Year. ey Cake, and Tzimmes. These recipes • 1 lb turnips RIt’s a very important holiday have been a part of our family celebra- • 6 oz dried golden raisins (1 1/4 on the Jewish calendar. It is the first tions for many years. cups) of what we call the High Holidays (or Tzimmes is a traditional Ashke- • 1/4 cups orange jam High Holy Days), a ten-day period that nazi Jewish dish made with sweet root • 1/4 cup orange juice ends with Yom Kippur – the holiest vegetables – carrots, sweet potatoes. • 1/2 cup honey day of the Jewish year. On Rosh Ha- Sometimes dried fruits are added, • 1/2 cup sugar shanah, Jews from all over the world like raisins or dried plums. The word • 2 tsp cinnamon celebrate God’s creation of the world. tzimmes is a Yiddish expression for • 1 tsp salt Rosh Hashanah is two days long, and “making a fuss” over something, prob- • 1/2 tsp black pepper it usually occurs during the month of ably because making tzimmes is a bit • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth September. of a fussy dish… with all of those root • 1/2 cup olive oil Food is an important part of Rosh veggies, there is lots of peeling and • 12 oz pitted prunes (3 cups) Hashanah. Many special foods are in- chopping involved. Tzimmes is often • 1 tbs Moroccan spice mix cluded in a traditional Rosh Hashanah served as a side dish for Rosh Hasha- Moroccan Spice Mix: meal as blessings. Sweet foods are eat- nah. • 1 tablespoon cumin en to symbolize our hope for a “sweet This year, I’m introducing a dif- • 1 tablespoon coriander new year.” We enjoy “new fruit,” a ferent type of tzimmes – a Moroccan- • 1 tablespoon granulated garlic Personal Chef Dalia Hemed fruit that has recently come into season inspired tzimmes. I thought it would • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds can be reached at but have not yet had the opportunity be fun to create a “fusion” tzimmes, • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg [email protected]. to enjoy this year (often a pomegran- expanding the European carrot base to • 1 teaspoon allspice ate). The head of a fish is sometimes include other root vegetables – beets, • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon XX Reduce heat to a gentle but con- served to remind us to be “like the head parsnips, turnips – and cook them with • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric stant simmer. Cover the pot. and not the tail” – so we’ll be leaders, Moroccan spices to bring out the true • 1 tablespoon ground ginger XX After 30 minutes, open the pot not followers. The fish also symbol- flavors. Then finish the dish with gold- • 1 tablespoon kosher salt and gently stir again. Place pitted izes the translation of Rosh Hashanah, en raisins, dried plums and a honey • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper prunes on top of the simmering in- which means “Head of the Year” in glaze. • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper gredients. Hebrew. I peeled and chopped up carrots cut Directions: XX Cover pot. Continue to cook on Pretty, symbolic bread called chal- into round shapes symbolizing the con- XX Place carrots, turnips, beets, pars- lowest heat for another 15 minutes, lah is baked, sweetened with raisins tinuing cycle of the year and seasons, nips on the bottom of a large heavy until all the vegetables are tender and braided into a round shape. Apples and using golden, orange, yellow and pot. and prunes have warmed and soft- are dipped in honey, again symbolizing white colored veggies. In Sephardic XX Pour raisins on top. ened. Don’t cook too long, or the sweetness. All of these traditions are holiday tradition, golden-colored foods XX Add olive oil, salt and black pep- prunes will dissolve – it will make important, because they help to con- signify abundance, so I stuck with a per. a nice sauce for the tzimmes, but it nect us to the deeper meaning of the golden color palette for this dish. XX In a medium bowl, whisk together won’t look so pretty on the table. Rosh Hashanah holiday. I used my basic recipe for making orange juice, orange jam, honey, XX Serve warm as a side dish to a fes- There are certain dishes that make tzimmes, but sweetened it with honey sugar, cinnamon and Moroccan tive holiday meal. an appearance on our Rosh Hashanah and orange juice, and spiced it up with spice mix. Pour mixture over the Wishing you all a Happy and table every year. I’m sure your family the exotic scent of Moroccan spice mix fruits and vegetables in the pot. Sweet Rosh Hashanah! has its own favorite traditional foods – Ingredients: XX Add chicken broth to the pot, cov- you know, the dishes that really make it • 8 carrots (1 lb) peeled and cut into ering the vegetables halfway. Heat Look for Chef Dalia Hemed’s a holiday (no matter which holiday you 1-inch rounds pot over medium high till it begins recipes each month in the celebrate!). For my family, it wouldn’t • 1 lb sweet potatoes to simmer. Stir the ingredients pages of L’CHAYIM. be Rosh Hashanah without fish, Perfect • 1 lb beets once gently. L’CHAYIM is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, committed advertisers and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 11

Personal Chef Dalia Hemed can be reached at [email protected].

L’CHAYIM is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, committed advertisers and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 12 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Racial and ethnic strife backgrounds Crown Heights murder mystery Book review by Philip K. Jason, Special to L’CHAYIM Conviction, by Julia Dahl. a false confession wrung from him via facts straight and being first to Family dysfunc- Minotaur. 320 pages. despicable police interrogation. break the story. tion is also an ele- Hardcover $25.99. The narrative moves back and forth, And that’s not all. Convic- ment in the story alternating between two timelines. One tion probes the texture and of Joe, a California onviction, the latest entry in describes the sequence of events as they dynamics of parent-child rela- Jewish boy whose Julia Dahl’s Rebekah Roberts happened in 1992. The other reveals tionships in a remarkably rich identity undergoes Cseries, is a powerful explora- events of 2014, especially those that fol- way. It’s not all good news. dangerous changes on tion of how unjustifiable convictions low journalist Rebekah Roberts, who is The relationship between Re- the road to a psychot- occur and what the sparked into action by a letter from for- bekah and her mother, Aviva, ic, criminal adulthood consequences are. tyish prison inmate DeShawn Perkins. for instance, is very rocky. in Crown Heights. It also evokes the He claims that he has been in jail for Though the reasons for This is a novel of spiritual overtone 22 years for a crime he didn’t commit. this would be clear to readers extreme tension – ten- of the title word. To explore the background and of Dahl’s first two novels – especially sion that ripples through almost all the The storytelling consequences of this claim, Dahl de- the second, Run You Down, where the characters, especially Rebekah, in her mode is particu- signs a layered plotline women are developed quest to become a respected profes- larly effective, that includes the rela- in detail – first-timers sional, to make a life for herself in mixing sections tionships between the might well be curious New York, to be a positive force in this told in the main African-American and about what is largely troubled community, to face the dangers  Phil character’s voice Jewish communities; left unexplained. of urban life, to love and be loved. Jason with other sections the abusive and often Aviva is extremely Dahl’s handling of dialogue is that enter the minds and emotions of criminal practices of city judgmental, and she sharper than ever. She pins down speech other important characters. landlords; the unwilling- disrespects her daugh- patterns so that the presence and person- It’s all about perspective. ness of police and dis- ter’s career choice. ality of her characters is profoundly real- Something horrible happens in trict attorneys to reopen Digging up and expos- ized. Her treatment of Joe is a stunning Brooklyn during the summer of 1992. A closed cases; the decline ing secrets is not some- case in point, but there are many others. black mother and father, along with one of U.S. newspapers; and thing she appreciates, You can tell by now, dear reader, that of their foster children, are murdered the shoddy journalism especially when they Rebekah is key to inmate DeShawn’s fu- in their Crown Heights home. Another that arises from the ten- hit close to home. Re- ture. However, to reveal too much about Julia Dahl (credit Chasi Annexy) foster child is convicted of the crime, sion between getting the bekah is almost ready the steps along the way would defang to give up on forging a relationship the impact of this gripping, multidimen- with the mother she only recently came sional novel. Rebekah’s persistence and JEWISH FEDERATION BOOK CLUB to know. growing mastery of investigatory skill Family rupture is also part runs parallel to Julia Dahl’s growing Wednesday, October 25 of the story of Saul Katz, an ex- ambition and mastery of her craft. 6:00 p.m. police officer in the 2014 portion of This review originally appeared in the the story and, as fate would have it, Washington Independent Review of part of the team that first investigated Books and is reprinted with permission. the deadly assault on the Davis family Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeritus The JFed Book Club back in 1992. He is estranged from his of English from the United States Na- wife and son for reasons the narrative val Academy. He reviews regularly for resumes its monthly book makes clear. Florida Weekly, Jewish Book World, discussions with author Saul is also Aviva’s boyfriend, as Southern Literary Review, and other David Grossman’s Man well as Rebekah’s friend. Importantly, publications. Please visit Phil’s website he is Rebekah’s pipeline to the Hasidic at www.philjason.wordpress.com. Booker International community, to which he once belonged. Awardwinning book: A Horse Walks into a Bar What do you think? L’CHAYIM wants to know! Send your letters and comments to Book club is open to all. Ted Epstein, L’CHAYIM Editor, at [email protected]. Contact Leni for more information: Letters Policy [email protected] Letters must include the writer’s full name, full address and daytime phone. Letters should be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length and/ 239.481.4449 x3 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 SEPTEMBER 2017 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 13 Racial and ethnic strife backgrounds Stars of David Interested in Your By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist Crown Heights murder mystery 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 The Tribe at the Emmys co-writer, Feud: Bette and Joan, and with a limited search of one family line. The 69th Primetime Emmy Awards will RICHARD PRICE, 67, co-writer, The be broadcast live on CBS on Sunday, Night Of. So here’s the deal: September 17 at 8:00 p.m. Stephen Five series are nominated for out- Write Bloom at [email protected] and enclose a phone number. Colbert will host. The Creative Arts standing writing, variety series (Full Emmys are awarded on Saturday, Sep- Frontal with Samantha Bee, Last Week Nate will then contact you about starting a limited search. If that tember 16 (FXX cable, 8:00 p.m.). The Tonight with John Oliver, Late Night goes well, additional and more extensive searches are possible. Creative Emmy categories include guest with Seth Meyers, Saturday Night Live The first search fee is no more than $100. No upfront cost. Also, actor on a series, documentaries, reality and Late Night with Stephen Colbert). and animated shows, and all the techni- These shows’ entire writing staffs are several of this newspaper’s readers have asked Bloom to locate cal awards. I’ll mention a few Jewish nominated and I simply can’t “vet” friends and family members from their past, and that’s worked out “Creative” nominees at the end of this these big staffs. By the way, Seth Mey- column. Here are the confirmed Jewish ers is not Jewish, although his paternal great for them. So contact him about this as well. Primetime Emmy nominees. grandfather was Jewish. He did marry Acting Categories: Lead actor, his wife ALEXI ASHE in a Jewish MADOFF opposite De Niro, is up for MAN, 46, variety special, A Speck of comedy series: JEFFREY TAMBOR, ceremony in 2013. supporting actress, limited series. Rush Dust; MINDY STERLING, 64, best 73, Transparent; Lead actress, comedy The Emmys for “best series” in has already won an Oscar for playing known for playing “Frau Farbissina” in series: PAMELA ADLON, 51, “Better various categories goes to the series’ a Jew (pianist DAVID HELFGOTT the Austin Powers movies, is nominated Things, and TRACEE ELLIS ROSS, producers, of whom there are many. My in Shine) and an Emmy for playing the for best actress in short form shows (one 44, Black-ish (Ross’s father is Jewish; practice is to note which of the “best” late actor PETER SELLERS (whose a web series); FISHER STEVENS, 53, her mother is famous African-American series have a Jewish creator or co- mother was Jewish). is nominated for best direction of a non- singer Diana Ross); Note: Julia Louis- creator. Best Comedy Series: STEVEN Now for the Creative Emmys fiction program (AKA, a documentary), Dreyfus, a nominee in this category, LEVITAN, 55, co-creator, Modern corner: HANK AZARIA, 53, guest Bright Lights Starring Debbie Reynolds had one Jewish grandparent (paternal Family, and JOHN ALTSCHULER/ actor, drama, Ray Donovan; Ben Men- and Carrie Fisher; he competes in this grandpa) and she’s said repeatedly “I’m DAVE KRINSKY, both 54, co-cre- delsohn, a nominee in this category, is category with EZRA EDELMAN, 43, not Jewish”; Lead actor, drama series: ators, with Mike Judge, of Silicon the “same story” as Seth Meyers/Julia O.J.: Made in America. LIEV SCHREIBER, 49, Ray Dono- Valley; Best Drama Series: PETER Louis-Dreyfus; SARAH SILVER- van; Lead actress, drama series: EVAN MORGAN, 54, The Crown (which he RACHEL WOOD, 29, West World; wrote), and DAN FOGELMAN, 38, PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT Supporting actor, drama: MANDY This is Us; Best Limited Series: Jaffee PATINKIN, 64, Homeland; Support- Cohen, co-creator, Feud: Bette and OUR FEDERATION & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE. ing actress, comedy series: VANESSA Joan, Richard Price, co-creator, The BAYER, 35, Saturday Night Live, and Night Of, and NOAH PINK, 35ish, JUDITH LIGHT, 68, Transparent; co-creator, Genius (Pink is a Canadian Supporting actress, limited series/ Jew from Nova Scotia); Best Variety movie: JACKIE HOFFMAN, 56, Sketch Series: BILLY EICHNER, 37, Feud: Bette and Joan. creator and star of Billy on the Street, Directing and writing awards cite Jeremy Konner, co-creator, Drunk His- one episode. First, the directors: Com- tory, CARRIE BROWNSTEIN, 42, edy series: DAVID MANDEL, 47, co-creator and co-star of Portlandia, Veep. Mandel has written for many and LORNE MICHAELS, 72, creator Honest, caring and series, including Seinfeld. He wrote 10 of Saturday Night Live. Best TV movie: Seinfeld episodes, including the famous BARRY LEVINSON, 75, Wizard of knowledgable advice “Bizarro Jerry” episode, which he says Lies. Levinson, the film’s director, is about assisted is his favorite. Director, limited series, nominated as the film’s producer. living options… or movie or special: GLENN WEISS, It seems to be a record year for 55, the Oscars ceremony; Director, va- nominations for non-Jewish thespians at no cost to you! riety series: JEREMY KONNER, 37, playing real-life Jews. Robert De Niro, Drunk History (Konner is also the co- who played BERNIE MADOFF in Personal and professional creator of this series); Writing, comedy Wizard of Lies, vies with Geoffrey Rush, advice for you or a loved one series: DAVID MANDEL, Veep; Writ- who played ALBERT EINSTEIN in when you need it the most ing, drama series: JOE WEISBERG, Genius, for the lead actor Emmy in 56, The Americans. A former CIA of- a limited series. Stanley Tucci, who Bruce B. Rosenblatt, Owner Senior Housing Expert ficer, Weisberg createdThe Americans, played JACK L. WARNER (of Warner a series about two KGB agents posing Bros. fame) in Feud, is nominated for 239.595.0207 as Americans in the 1980s. Writing, supporting actor, limited series; and www.SeniorHousingSolutions.net limited series: JAFFE COHEN, 60ish, Michelle Pfeiffer, who played RUTH For All Your Southwest Florida Real Estate Needs

Susan Glasser, Realtor®

John R. Wood Properties Ronny S Taschner DDS 15065 McGregor Blvd. #105 Active Member of the American Academy of Periodontology Fort Myers, FL 33908 In front of Gulf Harbour Jennifer Taschner DDS MMSc Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology [email protected] Mobile: (239) 281-3105 Office: (239) 472-2411 Lee County resident for more than 20 years

1645 Medical Lane, Fort Myers, FL

Phone 239-936-0635 Visit Our Website www.taschnerperio.com L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 14 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST The Jewish People’s Philharmonic Chorus: The Jews of Belgium A revival of Yiddish music in our time fight back By Arlene Stolnitz highlight of the North American such as “Oyfn Pripichok,” “Rabbi In Schaechter’s words, “I try to Other groups such as The Yiddish Jewish Choral Festival this sum- Elimelech,” “Rozhinkes Mit Mandlen” bring Yiddish songs to the next gen- Book Center have produced programs A mer was the Jewish People’s and “Tumbalalaika” are reminiscent of eration.” With his two outstandingly such as Yidstock: The Festival of New Philharmonic Chorus, the only chorus in life in Eastern Europe, and for some, talented daughters, Temma and Reyna, Yiddish Music. The popular Klezmatics New York City with an all-Yiddish rep- stir long-forgotten memories. known as Di Shekhter-Tekhter (the continually play to sold-out audiences. ertoire. According Schaechter always provides printed Schaechter Sisters), they have toured Locally, we have a Yiddish expert to a recent article programs for each concert with trans- the world singing Yiddish songs and in Sarasota County. David Berman, in Moment maga- literated words and meanings. Sing-a- bringing our musical heritage to life. Emeritus Professor of Music at Ithaca zine, the JPPC is longs add another dimension of pleasure There are others working on the College, is a renowned authority on Yid- a “vibrant inter- for listeners. Programs often include preservation of the Yiddish language dish music. His extensive library fills an generational en- what is called “The Yiddish Top Chai – and the memory of its culture in Europe entire wall of his study. semble… with an The 18 Top Yiddish Songs People Love through the medium of music. One of I encourage you to check out the upbeat Broadway To Hear.” the foremost is Yale Strom, who, with music of the Jewish People’s Philhar- bounce.” JPPC has had a long history. Found- his wife Elizabeth Schwartz, has cre- monic Chorus on YouTube. I guarantee I can re- ed in 1923 on New York’s Lower East ated an entertaining program called you will enjoy it! Arlene Stolnitz member a few Side, the group was originally called Mayses un Musik (Stories and Music), Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sara- years back when it was thought that “Freiheit Gezang Farein.” Part of the a musical journey through the Jew- sota Jewish Chorale, is a member of Yiddish was a “dying language.” burgeoning labor movement, it was the ish culture of Eastern Europe. Their the Jewish Congregation of Venice. A Today we have much evidence that this first Jewish chorus to be accompanied book, A Wandering Feast, tells the retired educator from Rochester, New idea is not true. The JPPC is part of the by an orchestra. Today it is a nonsectar- story of their travels through Eastern York, she has sung in choral groups for modern Yiddish renaissance. ian music organization, open to people Europe and includes Yiddish songs and over 25 years and also sings in Venice’s About forty singers participate in of all faiths. It is the longest continu- recipes, as well as a detailed Yiddish- Chorale (formerly Exsultate!). Her the ensemble. Their members range in ously running Jewish chorale group in English glossary. Several years ago, interest in choral music has led to this age from young professionals in their the world. they appeared in a program at Temple series of articles on Jewish folk music 20s to senior citizens in their mid-80s, Binyumen, its current conductor, is Beth Israel on Longboat Key. in the Diaspora. each committed to preserving the Yid- the son of the prominent Yiddish linguist dish language and passing it on through Mordkhe Schaechter, which accounts the medium of beautiful Yiddish choral for his intense interest in the preserva- music. tion of the Yiddish language. He and his From oratorios and operettas to la- three sisters speak only Yiddish with bor anthems, folksongs and popular Yid- their children. He has been conductor dish folk tunes, the group commissions of the chorus since 1995. Before that, new Yiddish works by contemporary he was an award-winning composer composers. The chorale’s conductor, and performer in many off-Broadway Binyumen Schaechter, is its enthusiastic productions and cabaret settings. director whose vision is the inspiration His numerous accomplishments Midge Rauch Phyllis & Berny Aronson Jillian & Karen Siegel and success of this remarkable group. include composer, musician, pianist, Audiences have been asked ran- performer as well as conductor. Per- domly why they have chosen to attend forming throughout the world on five these performances. Many answer that continents, his songs have been recorded they remember beloved family mem- by artists such as Tova Feldshuh. In his bers, such as grandparents who spoke present position, he is able to combine Yiddish. They long to hear the language his musical talent with his passion for of their relatives in musical form. Songs the Yiddish language.

Steven, Beverly Barry & Cheryl Leah, Joshua, Come, Visit & Shop Paula & Ira Zlatkin Fulmer Maxx Joseph & Noam Mitchell at southwest Florida’s largest Judaica store. You’ll find

everything to make the Nancy & Jack Tom Miller & New Year Holiday Wiadro Ginny Gioia & Family John Kirshmer extra special! L’Shanah Tovah Happy New Year Marsha & Mike Kistler Gift Gallery

Ms. Rosalind Owitz Lory & Lynn Kirby

Temple Beth El 16225 Winkler Road • Fort Myers For more information, please call 949.0700 Hy Tuchman L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 15 The Jewish People’s Philharmonic Chorus: The Jews of Belgium 2 A revival of Yiddish music in our time fight back By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD n September 1942, two Jewish com- rescue Jewish children, and through her munists in Belgium, Hertz Jospa and efforts over three thousand were saved Ihis wife Yvonne, were instrumental from deportation through placement in founding the Comité de Défense des with sympathetic non-Jewish families. Juifs (Jewish Defense Committee or The CDJ’s activities were many. CDJ), which was to become a leading They hid Jewish children, published Belgian resistance organization during anti-Nazi publications, functioned as World War II. a national social service organization, Temple Beth Shalom Members of the Jewish revolu- and created false identification papers tionary organization Solidarité juive, for Jews in hiding. There were approxi- th the Jospas were a mately thirty members in the children’s 702 SE 24 Avenue remarkable couple. section alone, and it developed a vast Yvonne was born network for hiding Jews. The depart- in Romania in 1910 ment for forged documents not only Cape Coral with the name Have provided Jews with false papers, but (Chava) Groisman. also supplied the broader resistance The third of four movement throughout Belgium. The 239-772-4555 girls, she came from section Kinderen was responsible for  Dr. Paul an observant middle- the hiding and support of individuals Bartrop class background. who had gone underground. Her father was one of three judges in The most important act of resistance their hometown, and her mother was by the CDJ took place on the evening actively involved in the work of the local of April 19-20, 1943, when agents Jewish school. Yvonne attended school derailed a train leaving the Mech- in Kishinev (Chişinău) before moving elen (Malines) transit camp headed for to Belgium to study social work at the Auschwitz. The CDJ had learned of the University of Liège. exact date and time of the deportation In 1933, she married Hertz, a phar- from Mechelen, and smuggled tools High Holiday Service Schedule maceutical chemist. Straight after their from the camp’s workshop onto the wedding, Yvonne and Hertz joined the train cars in order to enable prison- 2017-5778 Communist Party of Belgium, and in ers to pry open the railcar doors and Selichot 1934 became Belgian citizens. Prior floorboards. Three members of the CDJ Saturday evening, September 16 to the outbreak of World War II they unit Group G, under the direction of 8:00pm - Coffee & Dessert worked with child refugees from the Georges Livchitz, forced the train to a 8:30pm - Havdalah and Selichot Service Spanish Civil War and organized the halt by signaling it with a red lantern. passage through Belgium of Romanian While Livchitz held the engineer at anti-fascist volunteers going to Spain gunpoint with his revolver, the other Rosh Hashanah Services to fight with the International Brigades. two members, Robert Maistriau and Wednesday, September 20 During 1935 and 1936 Yvonne Jean Franklemon, aided in the escape 7:30pm - Services also took care of Jewish refugees from of several prisoners within the cars. Thursday September 21 Germany and Austria. After the Kristall- The three CDJ agents were able to 10:00am - Services nacht pogrom of November 9-10, 1938, escape under gunfire, with the opera- 11:00am - Children’s Service her work intensified dramatically. She tion saving 231 Jews out of the 1,631 Light luncheon and Taschlich Ceremony following would often shield illegal immigrants in heading for Auschwitz. This is the only the morning services at Temple Beth Shalom her house, prior to smuggling them out known instance of an armed assault of Belgium and to a safe third country. anywhere in Europe staged in order to Cemetery Visitation Service With the Nazi invasion of Belgium halt a train transporting Jews en route Sunday, September 17 and the country’s capitulation on May to their deaths. Georges Livchitz was 11:00 am - We will gather at the gate of the 28, 1940, Yvonne began to devote her- arrested and executed in February 1944 “Beit Hakodesh” to remember and honor our dearly self fully to social and relief matters. by a German firing squad. She and Hertz moved around constantly Overall, the Comité de Défense des departed loved ones – no matter where they are with false names and papers; their mul- Juifs was the most important achieve- buried. tiple identities as Jews, communists and ment of Belgian Jewry during the Ger- anti-Nazis placing them in a state of man occupation. It played a critical Yom Kippur Services constant peril. role in rescue and resistance between Friday September 29 An extensive Nazi nighttime raid September 1942 and Belgium’s libera- 7:30pm - Kol Nidre Service on the Jewish quarter of Brussels in tion in February 1945. Saturday September 30 September 1942 – 75 years ago this In June 1943, Hertz Jospa was 10:00am - 1:00pm - Morning Service month – was the spur for many Belgian arrested, caught while meeting with a 11:00am - Children’s Service Jews to join rescue and armed resistance Jewish courier. He was deported as a 3:30pm - Mincha, followed by Yizkor Memorial and groups. Hertz and Yvonne, along with political resister, not as a Jew, which Neilah Services, Concluding Shofar and Havdalah Zionist associations and the Front de saved him from being sent to Aus- Break-the-Fast at Sundown (reservations required) l’Indépendance, established the Comité chwitz. After a period of local deten- de Défense des Juifs, which came to be tion in Belgium, in May 1944 he was recognized by the Belgian Government- deported to Buchenwald. Yvonne lost www.templebethshalomcc.org in-Exile in London as the representative contact with him and thought he had body of the Belgian Jewish community. died, but he returned on May 8, 1945, Yvonne headed the branch working to after the camp was liberated. When he returned he was but a shadow of what he had been prior to his arrest, emotion- L’CHAYIM ally and physically exhausted, and very sick. It took a long period of convales- Guidelines cence for him to return to health. All the members of Yvonne’s family for Publication who remained in Romania were murdered during the Holocaust, but a sister, DEADLINES: who was with her in Belgium, survived. 5 p.m. on the 5th of each month for all No one, however, other than those with articles and photos. If the 5th falls on whom she had the closest contact during a weekend or holiday, the deadline is the war, knew of her accomplishments the following business day. on behalf of Jewish children. In 1964, in order to keep alive the community of WORD LIMITS: resisters she had played such an impor- 600 words for temples and organiza- tant part in facilitating, she co-founded tions providing materials for their respective sections. Those exceeding the Union des Anciens Résistants Juifs these limits will be edited to fit. de Belgique (Union of Former Belgium Jewish Resistance Members). She re- SUBMISSIONS: mained honorary chairperson of this Email: [email protected] organization until her death, in Brussels, Articles should be sent as text files, in 2000. Please join us for any of the above services. Word files, or Rich Text Format files. Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of History Tickets are required for non-members. Receipt will be acknowledged if and the Director of the Center for Ju- requested. Photos may be submitted daic, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies Please call the Temple Beth Shalom office electronically; high-resolution JPG or at Florida Gulf Coast University. He TIF formats preferred. can be reached at [email protected]. for reservations and pricing at 239-772-4555. L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 16 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Grieving, remembering and moving forward Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing old By Joel Hersch, July 12, 2017 n the background of my daily in her wallet. In Judaism, the num- against her. Meow-zel Tov: The Jewish cat connection thoughts and awareness, my grief ber 18 is significant. Eighteen is chai, Without her here, there are so By Rabbi Barbara Aiello over the loss of my wife of 53½ meaning life and good fortune – as the many empty places, so many empty yearsI is unrelenting. It has been more Fiddler on the Roof song goes, “To sights, and so much emptiness. And “ he’s my reason to get up early than a year since she died, but still, I life, to life, l’chaim…” yet, I never thought of retreating into every morning,” says Elaine B., hide it from everyone. I don’t want my What an ironic twist of fate. A mes- the emptiness; I know my dear Phyllis Sassisted living resident whose grief to interfere with my living rela- sage from above from the All-Knowing wanted me to continue to embrace life. morning habit could be motivated by her tionships; it would overcome them and One? I consider adding $1 to the sum She once even confided to me that dedication to an aging relative or friend make sympathy and empathy cumber- to make it $18 – but what good can a widow and dear friend would make – certainly worthwhile endeavors – but some. come from $17 and $1 that would be a good companion for me. After her for Elaine that’s not the case. Instead, I let the grief and sorrow a valid memorial to my most cherished death, my daughter suggested I sub- “Sugar needs me,” says Elaine, re- happen when no one is looking. My lifelong soulmate and companion? Per- scribe to an online Jewish dating ser- ferring to her long grief often rears its head when it’s dark, haps I should ask for suggestions. vice. While some may have had suc- hair, fluffy white when I’m alone, like when I come The episodes of sorrow that tear at cess doing so, I was soon discouraged cat. Elaine, the across Phyllis’s nail file, the marks of my heart come from so many places: and gave up the effort – until a female Jewish cat lover, her self-manicuring still evident on its the empty seat at the kitchen table when friend in a chavurah (fellowship) group is not alone. In surface. I have breakfast; a tune on the car radio we belonged to approached me and fact, there seems When I go to the closet for a shirt that we sang along to together; smil- said, “Joel, I didn’t know you were to be a strong con- and see her purse. Phyllis passed away ing at each other; our dog, Max, lying looking. Would you be willing to meet nection between with $17 still remaining tucked away alone on the sofa instead of snuggled two of my widowed lady friends?” As cats and Jewish another Fiddler on the Roof song goes, Phyllis and Joel Hersch tradition, and who knew? Having a ● Beit Midrash ● “Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a member of the Jewish War Veterans a match…” and write for the local Federation pa-chatul (Hebrew for cat) could be an in- Adult Jewish Learning at Temple Judea Now, there is a wonderful woman per, L’CHAYIM. nately Jewish thing to do. Begins: October 16, 2017 @ 6:15 pm in my life, someone I am able to love, I volunteer at my synagogue. I go In her article about Jews and cats, Shira Cohen-Regev tells us that since 6:15pm – 7:30pm 7:45pm – 8:45pm to talk with, to enjoy and learn to learn to my gym. I have my golf and bridge from. She is Jewish by choice, inde- lessons. And I still watch my Raystheir domestication in ancient Egypt pendent, active and intelligent, and she baseball games – but now I can watch3,600 years ago, cats and Jewish tra- Introduction to Judaism* The Ethical Life • Overview of Jewish Practice, Thought dition have shared a common bond. • Jewish Values in an Age of Choice has a varied and most interesting life them from the bedroom. Phyllis used & History Cohen-Regev informs us that cats are * A prerequisite for people who are considering  Taught by Rabbi Marc Sack and history. She loves me, and we are to kick me out to the living room so she conversion good for each other. could watch The Bachelor! mentioned fondly in the Talmud.  Taught by Rabbi Marc Sack Basic Hebrew Reading Yes, I feel I am now making my Phyllis will be forever 74, while I Our rabbinic sages, including the • Letters and vowel recognition way. am growing older, my wrinkles a littlegreat commentator, Rashi, note that cats Known and Lesser Known Women of the • Beginning phonetics I have my friends, too, both new deeper. When we meet in heaven, willare an example of modesty, given their Bible Taught by Liz Singer • An In-depth look into their lives and choices and old. I have my grown children, and she recognize me? And if she asks,grooming rituals and use of the litter  Taught by Liz Singer I have my grandchildren. I share their “What did you do with my $17?” I maybox. The Talmud states, “If the Torah triumphs and their happiness. I share not have a good answer for her – but I wasn’t given, we would have learned Judaism and The Law of Attraction their successes and their happiness. will be able to tell her, “I lived my life modesty from the cat.” • What it means to pray In his blog on the “Jewish View • How we an live in ‘simcha’ (joy) I have moved on. I served on the well, and I will always love you.” • What an amazing world this is board at synagogue before, and now I Joel Hersch is a member of the Boardof Cats,” author Yonassan Gershom  Taught by Rabbi Dr. Michael J. Schorin am in a chair role once again. I even of Trustees of Temple Beth El in Fort writes that many cultures have supersti- For more information, contact Rabbi Marc Sack worked in the synagogue office for Myers. tions about cats, such as, “If a black cat 239-433-0201 ● [email protected] three years and became acquainted Reprinted with permission from www.crosses your path, it brings bad luck.” with many members personally. I am ReformJudaism.org. Not so for us Jews, especially since 14486 A and W Bulb Road ● Fort Myers, FL 33908 ● [email protected] our religion specifically bans a belief in omens (Leviticus 19:26). Instead,

Bob & Dottie Ruberto Barbara Waksler Carolyn Gora

Proudly serving the Jewish community of Lee County for over 52 years, Hodges Funeral Home at Lee Memorial Park Cemetery off State Road 82 provides many convenient and affordable Kathy Zoss & Joe & Marcia Goldberg options for traditional as well as contemporary funeral and Fidencio Hernandez burial services.

 Garden of David  spaces starting at $2,995

Phyllis & Arthur Ohlstein The Rutt Family

odges Jerry & Barbara Snyderman HFuneral Home at Lee Memorial Park Stay connected all month long at 12777 State Road 82 (239) 334-4880 Fort Myers, FL 33967 www.JewishFederationLCC.org L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 17 Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing old Meow-zel Tov: The Jewish cat connection By Rabbi Barbara Aiello he’s my reason to get up early Gershom recalls what Jewish comedian Gershom says is “a pretty good descrip- animals mitigate loneliness. “ every morning,” says Elaine B., Groucho Marx once said: “If a black cat tion of a stalking cat!” In a U.S. News and World Report Sassisted living resident whose crosses your path, it means the animal Back to Elaine, who, when she article, “In the Presence of Animals” morning habit could be motivated by her is going somewhere.” emphasizes that Sugar plays an impor- (1992), Sarah Burke found that in a dedication to an aging relative or friend Gershom continues tant part in her life, is review of 25 studies on the effects of – certainly worthwhile endeavors – but that during the Middle right in line with current pets on elderly people in nursing homes, for Elaine that’s not the case. Ages, when some Chris- research on the relation- “Residents exposed to pets consistently “Sugar needs me,” says Elaine, re- tians believed that cats ship between pets and smiled more and became measurably ferring to her long were related to witch- overall health. more alert than those who did not en- hair, fluffy white craft, Jews saw cats dif- As more and more counter animals.” cat. Elaine, the ferently. Possibly be- elderly people live Other prominent researchers con- Jewish cat lover, cause cats were part of alone, having a pet can cur that “animal companionship can is not alone. In the culture of ancient make an important dif- dramatically improve the quality of life fact, there seems Egypt and thus were ference in the daily life and may even have a positive impact on to be a strong con- familiar to Jews, this of an aging person. For longevity.” nection between feline prejudice didn’t Elaine, Sugar gives her a But it is Elaine B., elderly herself, cats and Jewish exist. However, for many reason to rise early since who sums up in plain language what all tradition, and who European Christians it she must start her day by the studies seem to have determined. Rabbi Barbara Aiello knew? Having a was a different story. tending to her pet. “I’m almost 90 and my Sugar will be chatul (Hebrew for cat) could be an in- Gershom writes, “So, in contrast to me- When Elaine says, “Sugar needs 17 in September. What can I tell you? nately Jewish thing to do. dieval Christians who were killing cats me,” she echoes what gerontologists I do for her and she does for me! – a In her article about Jews and cats, as demons, Jews kept them around to have determined as crucial to healthy sentiment that deserves a hearty Meow- Shira Cohen-Regev tells us that since hunt rodents and protect the holy books aging – that is, having something to zel Tov to Sugar and Elaine and their their domestication in ancient Egypt from mice. In fact, it was common to care for breaks isolation and increases Jewish cat connection! 3,600 years ago, cats and Jewish tra- have a shul katze (synagogue cat) to an elderly person’s interest in life. For ten years Rabbi Barbara Aiello dition have shared a common bond. protect the congregation’s library.” Judith Siegel, Professor of Public served the Aviva Campus for Senior Cohen-Regev informs us that cats are When the Black Plague devastated Health at UC Los Angeles, tells us that Life in Sarasota as resident rabbi. mentioned fondly in the Talmud. Europe, sadly it was the Christian com- elderly people who own pets also visit Currently as Aviva’s Rabbi Emerita, Our rabbinic sages, including the munities who suffered most. Why? the doctor less frequently than those she shares her experiences on Aging great commentator, Rashi, note that cats Those “Jewish” cats that solved the mice who are without animal companions. Jewishly. Contact her at Rabbi@Rabbi are an example of modesty, given their problem also controlled the proliferation The thinking here is that, possibly, Barbara.com. grooming rituals and use of the litter of the rat population, and thus European box. The Talmud states, “If the Torah Jews were not as hard hit by the Plague. wasn’t given, we would have learned So, nu, what is it about cats that modesty from the cat.” lends itself to Jewish tradition? In In his blog on the “Jewish View an ancient Jewish text, Perek Shirah of Cats,” author Yonassan Gershom (The Song of the Universe), we find writes that many cultures have supersti- one answer. In these writings we are tions about cats, such as, “If a black cat told that everything in creation sings a crosses your path, it brings bad luck.” song to God. In fact, it is the cat who Not so for us Jews, especially since sings, “I pursued my foes and overtook Richard & Diane Jewish Federation our religion specifically bans a belief them, and did not return until they Sobel Cynthia Boyer Staff in omens (Leviticus 19:26). Instead, were destroyed.” (Psalm 18:38.) This, L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 18 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

BRIEFS continued from page 1 packed. Kosher food and wine are now Aerospace Industries. (Melanie Lid- 2016 to increase civilian aid for Syr- problems. We learn the patterns of ac- regularly featured at national food fairs man, Times of Israel) ians. Brig.-Gen. Yaniv Ashur said, “We tivities of the enemy and know how and can be purchased at upscale stores have learned from the Americans who to surprise him with counterattacks in throughout the country. VOLUNTEERS FROM lost the Iraqi population. We realized many different ways.” (Times of Israel) Italian historians, archaeologists OVERSEAS JOIN THE IDF that we could do more for the popula- and anthropologists are hard at work to 122 male and 31 female volunteers tion near our border than what we were ISRAEL SEEKS FRIENDLY document the presence of Jews which from 12 countries arrived in Israel over doing at the time.” BUFFER ZONE IN SYRIAN dates back to the first century, follow- the summer in order to join the Israel The IDF is working with inter- GOLAN TO COUNTER ing the Roman conquest of ancient Defense Forces, the Defense Ministry national organizations and donors to IRANIAN PENETRATION Israel. Cooperative ventures between reported. transfer aid to over 200,000 Syrians Israel has been supplying Syrian rebels Italian and Israeli universities are un- 45% are from the U.S., 38% came living close to the Israeli border. near its border with cash, food, fuel and derway as well. from France, and others are from South In the past year alone, the IDF has medical supplies for years, a secret en- At the same time, anti-Semites are Africa, Belgium, Mexico, Australia, given to Syrian civilians over 360 tons gagement aimed at carving out a buffer particularly active in northern cities Canada, Austria, Honduras and Thai- of food and flour, 456,000 liters of gas, zone populated by friendly forces. Is- like Milan and Turin. The country is land. (Anna Ahronheim, Jerusalem 100 tons of clothes (55 tons of warm rael’s aim is to keep Iran-backed fight- also a landing point for Islamic immi- Post) clothes), 12 tons of shoes, as well as ers away from the border on the Golan grants, many of whom are openly anti- generators and mobile caravans to use Heights. Semitic. (Michael Ledeen, Wall Street U.S. AND ISRAEL TEAM UP as clinics or classrooms. Additional aid Israeli officials have pointed out Journal) TO FIGHT “BAD ACTORS” included 12,000 packages of baby for- that rebels in certain areas have never IN CYBERSPACE mula, 1,800 packages of diapers, and tried to attack Israel, while an Islam- ISRAEL LAUNCHES Israel and the U.S. are starting a high- 600 meters of piping to re-establish ru- ic State affiliate that has carved out a FIRST ENVIRONMENTAL level partnership to create a bulwark ined water infrastructure, giving 5,000 pocket of control on the south end of RESEARCH SATELLITE against increasingly sophisticated cy- people running water. This is in addi- the Syrian Golan exchanged fire with Israel launched its first environmental ber attackers who target critical nation to the over 3,000 wounded and Israeli forces last year. research satellite on Wednesday morn- tional infrastructure. Israel will send sick Syrians who have been treated Israel has dubbed the current Go- ing, August 2, from French Guiana, representatives from the Israel Security in Israel since 2013. “Once a week a lan operation “The Good Neighbor- in partnership with the French space Agency, the foreign affairs, justice and busload of sick children comes into Is- hood” policy, according to political agency CNES. defense ministries, and the military. rael,” Ashur said. (Anna Ahronheim, analyst Ehud Ya’ari. “It’s a matter of The satellite will take high-reso- The aim will be to find and stop cyber Jerusalem Post) interests,” said a person familiar with lution photographs of specific sites to attackers “before they reach critical in- Israeli policy. Israel offers humanitar- track desertification, erosion, pollution, frastructure, and identify ways to hold NEW AIR ROUTE FROM ian support and in return gets a “buf- natural disasters, and other phenomena bad actors accountable,” Tom Bossert, CHINA WILL BOOST fer zone” of local militias defending linked to climate change. President Trump’s homeland security TOURISM TO ISRAEL themselves. (Rory Jones, Wall Street The camera on the satellite can and counterterrorism adviser, said re- China’s Hainan Airlines has submit- Journal) take photographs on wavelengths not cently in Tel Aviv. (Gwen Ackerman, ted a request to Israel’s Civil Aviation discernible to the human eye, and the Bloomberg) Authority to operate a route between MURDEROUS high resolution makes possible “preci- Guangzhou in southern China and PALESTINIAN MATH sion agriculture” for water, fertilizer ISRAEL AIDING 200,000 Ben-Gurion Airport, the Transporta- Omar al-Abed murdered three Jews. and pesticide needs. SYRIANS LIVING NEAR tion Ministry announced recently. This means he will almost certainly The satellite was launched together BORDER Hainan Airlines, China’s largest pri- be sentenced to more than 30 years in with a military observation satellite for Israel launched a new project dubbed vately-owned air carrier, already oper- prison. the Italian military, both built by Israel “Operation Good Neighbor” in June ates 4-5 direct weekly flights between According to the Palestinian Au- Beijing and Tel Aviv, in addition to the thority compensation law, this entitles El Al flights between those destina- him to $3,364 each month, four times tions. Starting in September, Hainan what the average Palestinian earns. Airlines will also operate three weekly That’s $40,368 a year, or FineMark National Bank & Trust is proud to flights between Shanghai and Tel Aviv. $1,211,040 for 30 years. consistently earn a 5-star rating from Bauer Transportation Minister Israel Imagine there was a government- Financial, the nation’s leading independent bank Katz said increasing the locations con- sponsored program here in America rating rm*. We attribute our success to the nected by direct flights is expected to that paid you a million bucks every meaningful relationships we build with our clients. help realize the enormous potential of time you murdered members of anoth- e better we know you, the better we can serve you. inbound tourism from China. “We are er ethnic group. talking about hundreds of thousands of In 2016, 11% of the PA’s budget Chinese who admire the history of the – $500 million – came from the U.S. Jewish people,” said Katz. (Liel Leibovitz, Tablet) In the first half of 2017, the number of tourists from China increased POLL: GAZANS WANT THE by 75% over the same period in 2016, PA TO TAKE OVER with 61,000 visits. (Tamara Zieve, Je- Reliable data from a new survey con- rusalem Post) ducted in Gaza on May 16-25, 2017, by a professional, independent Pales- ISRAEL SECURITY tinian pollster demonstrate that only AGENCY HAS THWARTED 14% of Gazans self-identify as Hamas 2,000 ATTACKS WITH supporters. Fatah garners 41% of Ga- CYBERTECH zans’ self-professed affiliation. 77% of The Israel Security Agency has used Gazans agree that “the PA should send cybertechnology to prevent more than officials and security officers to Gaza, 2,000 terror attacks since the beginning to take over the administration there.” of 2016, agency head Nadav Argaman 80% of Gazans want Hamas to told a conference at Tel Aviv Univer- “preserve a cease-fire with Israel.” sity. 62% say that “Hamas should stop call- He said Israeli intelligence agen- ing for Israel’s destruction, and instead cies have also passed on information to accept a permanent two-state solution stop terrorists elsewhere in the world. based on the 1967 lines.” He noted that groundbreaking cy- 67% of Gazans report a monthly bertechnology has helped to protect family income of under $330, com- against lone-wolf attacks that would pared with just 8% of West Bankers. have been unpreventable using tradi- This helps explain why 69% of Gazans tional intelligence means. want more jobs in Israel. If the Pales- He added that hackers who attempt tinian leadership is able to negotiate to attack Israel are in for a surprise. a two-state solution, 47% of Gazans “We are not only defending but also at- – up 13 points since 2015 – said “that Like us on Facebook! tacking hackers in the world. Hackers should end the conflict.” (David -Pol who operate against Israel around the lock, Washington Institute for Near world find they experience unexpected East Policy) For daily news stories related to Israel & the Jewish world,

Fort Myers • Bonita Springs • Charleston • Estero • Naples • Palm Beach • Scottsdale visit the Federation’s website at 239-461-5900 • www.ﬁ nemarkbank.com • Member FDIC • Equal Housing Lender Trust and investment services are not FDIC insured, are not guaranteed by the bank and may lose value. www.JewishFederationLCC.org. *5-Star Financial Rating issued by Bauer Financial, a leading independent bank rating and research ﬁ rm. Rating is 5 out of 5. L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 19 Israel, India expand commercial ties during Modi visit Seven Memorandum of Understanding deals signed including $40 million India-Israel Industrial Research and Development and Technical Innovation Fund. By Viva Sarah Press, ISRAEL21c, www.israel21c.org, July 6, 2017 ndian Prime Minister Narendra The two countries signed two agree- teleradiology company, announced a Modi’s historic visit to Israel this ments to increase cooperation on water partnership to bring Zebra’s cloud-based Iweek has produced new economic conservation and state water utility deep learning analytics engine to more deals and partnerships between Is- reform in India. An MoU was signed than 20 countries and 150 hospitals and raeli and Indian companies, including between Uttar Pradesh Jal Nigam and healthcare organizations. seven Memorandum of Understanding the Israeli Ministry of National Infra- “Zebra’s ability to produce and de- agreements to increase cooperation in structure, Energy and Water Resources. ploy AI for radiology is the exact type technological research and develop- “We agreed that efficiency of water of added value we hope to bring to help ment, space, water conservation and and resource use; water conservation fulfill our vision of impacting patient di- agriculture. and its purification; productivity in- agnosis and medical care in India, Asia “India and Israel are walking hand creases in agriculture are key areas in and Africa,” said Dr. Arjun Kalyanpur, in hand into the future as partners. India deepening our bilateral cooperation,” founder and CEO of Teleradiology Solu- Members of Israel’s Indian community is a growing economic powerhouse with Modi said. tions and Telerad Tech. celebrate in Tel Aviv during the official visit a large market and talent pool. Israel is Modi and Netanyahu attended a Shachaf Engineering and Mahindra of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a world leader in high technology and demonstration of a GalMobile desalina- Telephonics signed an MoU to col- (photo by Tomer Neuberg/FLASH90) innovation,” Modi and Israeli Prime tion unit capable of supplying drinking laborate on the design, development and Industry – through its Foreign Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wrote in water for 22,000 people per day. They and manufacture of strategic electronics. Trade Administration and array of three a joint editorial this week. were briefed by the G.A.L. managing “We are keen to bring to the table trade missions in India – helps Israeli “The combination of India’s and director and tasted water that had been our in-house expertise as well as techni- exporters open up the Indian market, Israel’s human resources and ingenuity desalinated on the spot. cal know-how from TTM Technologies which undoubtedly holds tremendous will provide more effective and more In the agriculture sector, Israel and – with whom we have a long-term rela- economic and trade potential.” tionship and represent in Israel as well as Many Israeli companies have estab- in India since 2006 – to the current and lished offices and production facilities future design of new generation systems in India, among them Teva, Netafim, in different segments of activities,” said CheckPoint, Amdocs, Magic Software, Zeev Harel, CEO of Shachaf Engineer- Ness Technologies, Mobileye and HP ing in Tel Aviv. Indigo as well as Israel Aerospace In- According to the Israeli Ministry dustries, Elbit, Verint and others. of Economy and Industry, since the A report issued by Accenture and establishment of diplomatic relations NASSCOM, “Collaborative Innova- between India and Israel in 1992, trade tion: The vehicle driving Indo-Israel between the countries has grown from prosperity,” estimates that by 2025, $200 million in 1992 to $4.13 billion up to $25 billion of revenue potential in 2016. can be unleashed for businesses in “The Indian economy is becoming the two countries through cumulative Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meet in Israel, a prime destination for Israeli exports, cross-border investment into Indian and July 2017 (photo by Haim Zach/GPO) with its 1.3 billion consumers, led by Israeli startups. affordable solutions for us in diverse India agreed to create the India-Israel 300 million citizens in the middle and Viva Sarah Press reports on the creativi- fields that are priorities for both our Development Cooperation – a three- upper-middle class, with purchasing ty, innovation and ingenuity taking place governments: agriculture, water, health, year work program from 2018 to 2020. power equal to the middle class of West- in Israel. Her work has been published environment, education and security.” The Israel Space Agency and Indian ern economies,” said Israeli Minister by international media outlets including Modi’s July 4-6 visit marked the Space Research Organization agreed to of Economy and Industry’s Eli Cohen. Israel Television, CNN, Reuters, Time 25th anniversary of the establishment cooperate in atomic clocks and continue “The Israeli Ministry of Economy Out and The Jerusalem Post. of diplomatic relations between the two academic cooperation. The two space countries. It was the first-ever visit by an agencies also signed MoUs on coop- Indian prime minister to Israel. eration in GEO-LEO optical link and One of the highlights was the sign- electric propulsion for small satellites. ing of an MoU for setting up a $40 Greater collaboration million India-Israel Industrial Research in startup arena and Development (R&D) and Technical Modi met with the CEOs of Israeli and Innovation Fund. Each country will con- Indian companies in the context of the tribute $20 million to enable joint Indian launch of an Israeli-Indian CEO forum and Israeli R&D projects that could to be chaired by Manufacturers Associa- lead to the development of innovative tion President Shraga Brosh. Modi and South

November 10 - 13, 2017

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi signs the guest book before his meeting with Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem (photo by Yonatan Sindel/FLASH90) technologies and products that have Netanyahu asked the forum to come potential for commercial application. up with early recommendations to help Join Us! “We are of one view that together boost bilateral cooperation in innova- our scientists and researchers would tion and entrepreneurship and called The Diplomat Resort & Spa develop, build and implement mutually for greater collaboration in the field of 3555 S. Ocean Drive ∙ Hollywood, FL 33019 beneficial solutions in the field,” said startups. Modi. “We regard thriving two-way On July 5, Zebra Medical Vision Honoring José María Aznar, Spain’s Former President, trade and investment flows as the bed- and Telerad Tech, the technology arm of with the Esteemed Shalom Peace Award rock of a strong partnership.” Teleradiology Solutions, India’s largest JNF’S NATIONAL CONFERENCE is the premiere annual event in Jewish philanthropy, bringing together more than 1,000 committed Jewish and Like us on Facebook! Israeli leaders, philanthropists, and college and high school students from across the U.S. and Israel to learn about the key issues of the day. ConneCt Register Today at jnf.org/nc MORE INFORMATION with your Jewish Community Contact Amy Penchansky at [email protected] or 516.678.6805 x804. www.facebook.com/ Thank You To Our Sponsors MAB Team - Merrill Lynch Myron D. Stayman Michael A. Brener Lesya Pelyushko Claire & Lee Hager facebook.com/jfedsrqJewishFederationLCC L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 20 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD AJC Global Forum addresses anti-Semitism FIDF supports over 50,000 soldiers and human rights during first-ever IDF appreciation week By Jeff Margolis New weeklong series of events featured “Fun Day” for Lone Soldiers, gift packages ver three thousand representa- “There are dark, hateful fringes in relations, and the establish- for combat soldiers, ice cream trucks visiting bases across Israel, and carnival. tives from all over the world our society.” He said that the rise of ment of a Muslim-Jewish Ocame together at the Washing- anti-Semitism is an outrage. He also Advisory Council. ton Hilton in Washington, D.C., in June commented about the pervasive anti- At one of several World to participate in the American Jewish Semitism at the United Nations. General Plenary dinners, AJC pre- Committee’s annual Global Forum. McMaster’s remarks focused on the sented its prestigious Light Established in 1906, the mission of AJC importance of U.S. power and strength Unto the Nations Award to is to serve as a Jewish advocacy and as a force for good in the world. He Klaus Werner Iohannis, Pres- human rights organization. said that we need to take a strong stance ident of Romania. President Keynote speakers at this year’s against radicalism and must champion Iohannis has been instru- conference included Senate Minority democracy and the rule of law. mental in combatting Anti- Leader Charles Schumer, and U.S. Na- Breakout sessions included discus- Semitism in his country. The tional Security Advisor General H. R. sions on the increase of anti-Semitism next day he was feted at the McMaster. Senator Schumer warned, in Europe, the changes in Black-Jewish White House, where Presi- dent Trump acknowledged Brian Lipton, AJC West Coast Florida Regional Director, with Ida & Jeff Margolis at the AJC Global Forum in Wahington, D.C. his award. At one of the other Global Forum provided with talking points and vis- sessions, participants were introduced ited Congressional offices to meet with to the AJC LFT Program – Leaders for either members of Congress or their Tomorrow. This program encourages legislative assistants. This year’s policy college students to attend workshops agenda included encouraging Congress and visit Israel with the hope that they to pressure the EU to designate Hezbol- will form the nucleus of Jewish leaders lah as a terrorist organization (HR 359), for the future. and also legislation championing the AJC Executive Director David Har- stability and democracy of Ukraine and ris challenged the conference attendees. to affirm America’s commitment to that He said, “History can change.” He ex- nation (HR 830). horted the group to take a more proac- In honor of the 70th anniversary of tive role in advocating for global human the creation of the State of Israel, the rights and in combating the increase in AJC Global Forum 2018 will take place anti-Semitism around the world. in Jerusalem. For more information The culminating activity of the about AJC in Southwest Florida, please conference was a massive lobbying contact Brian Lipton at 941.365.4955 effort in Congress. Volunteers were or [email protected]. PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT OUR FEDERATION & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE.

Paul Weinstein, CFP® Managing Partner, WWFG JOSEPH FAERBER Branch Manager, RJFS Attorney and Counselor at Law Admitted N.Y. and FLA. Bars ® Repairs • Salt Chlorine Generators • Heat Pumps RAYMOND JAMES Handling All Legal Matters 13720 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy #1 • Fort Myers, FL 33912 Free Consultation Lake Suzy 239-768-1490 • 888-768-1490 Toll Free • 239-768-1935 Fax (941) 627-2001 Florida [email protected] [email protected] Securities offered through 239-498-0518 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC

HIGGINSON TAX & ACCOUNTING, LLC TAX PREPARATION · PLANNING · AUDIT REPRESENTATION

Janet Astrin Sales Associate ERIC HIGGINSON, CPA 8695 COLLEGE PARKWAY, SUITE 2024 14360 S. Tamiami Trail • Fort Myers, Florida 33912 FORT MYERS, FL 33919 (239) 482-3001 • Fax (239) 482-8846 leelightingflorida.com TEL 239.935.6950 FAX 239.425.3289 Like us on Facebook [email protected] WWW.HIGGINSONTAX.COM

INTERNIST OF THE YEAR AWARD Presented by the Florida Chapter of the American College of Physicians

www.doctorben.net 6840 International Center Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33912 Located in Plantation Professional Center next to the CenturyLink Sports Complex

PATTERSON, ESKIN & BALL Wills, Estates and Trusts Rubinstein, Holz & King P.A. Family Law Attorneys Eric Gurgold, Esq. HAROLD S. ESKIN, P.A. Florida Bar Board Certiﬁ ed Wills, Trust and Estate Attorney ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR AT LAW CERTIFIED FAMILY LAW MEDIATOR CERTIFIED CIVIL LAW MEDIATOR Business and Tax Planning Alan J. Rubinstein Guy E. Whitesman, Esq. Board Certified - Marital & Family Law Florida Bar Board Certiﬁ ed Tax Attorney 1420 S.E. 47TH STREET, CAPE CORAL Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (239) 549-5551 • FAX (239) 549-4834 E-mail: [email protected] 1375 Jackson St., Ste. 304 (239) 332-3400 E-mail: [email protected] Fort Myers, FL 33901 Fax (239) 332-5078 henlaw.com • 239. 344.1100 L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 21 FIDF supports over 50,000 soldiers during first-ever IDF appreciation week New weeklong series of events featured “Fun Day” for Lone Soldiers, gift packages for combat soldiers, ice cream trucks visiting bases across Israel, and carnival. riends of the Israel Defense Forces Israel – at Israel’s largest waterpark, Christians and Jews (The Fellowship), (FIDF) supported more than just outside of Tel Aviv. There are some gathered 15,000 IDF soldiers for music, F50,000 Israel Defense Forces 6,550 Lone Soldiers from 80 countries food and live entertainment at the IDF’s (IDF) soldiers during the first-ever serving in the IDF today. About 826 training campus in the Negev. national appreciation week for IDF came from the United States, 582 from About Friends of the Israel Defense 150,000 loyal supporters and 20 chap- soldiers in Israel, June 29 - July 8, held Ukraine, 531 from Russia and 515 from Forces (FIDF) ters throughout the United States and in partnership with the IDF and Yachad France. FIDF was established in 1981 by a Panama. FIDF proudly supports IDF Le’maan Ha’chayal (The Association During the weeklong series of group of Holocaust survivors as a 501(c) soldiers, families of fallen soldiers, and for the Wellbeing of Israel’s Soldiers events, FIDF distributed gift packages (3) not-for-profit organization with wounded veterans through a variety of and The LIBI Fund). to more than 17,000 combat soldiers the mission of offering educational, innovative programs that reinforce the The inaugural “IDF Appreciation through its Adopt-A-Battalion Program; cultural, recreational and social pro- vital bond between the communities in Week” opened with a “Fun Day” of sent five ice cream trucks to visit more grams and facilities that provide hope, the United States, the soldiers of the rest and recuperation on June 29 for than 34,000 soldiers on IDF combat purpose and life-changing support for IDF, and the State of Israel. For more more than 6,000 “Lone Soldiers” – IDF bases across the country; and, in partner- the soldiers who protect Israel and Jews information, visit www.fidf.org. soldiers with no immediate family in ship with the International Fellowship of worldwide. Today, FIDF has more than

An FIDF staff member handed out refreshments to more than FIDF’s ice cream trucks delivered refreshments to more than 15,000 IDF soldiers at the IDF’s training campus in the Negev FIDF distributed gift packages to more than 17,000 combat soldiers 34,000 combat soldiers in Israel (photo credit: Scally Photography) (photo credit: Scally Photography) through its Adopt-A-Battalion Program (photo courtesy of FIDF)

ADRIENNE WEINER Broker-Associate Certified Public Accountants/Financial Consultants

® Charles Abels Massie CPA, CFP® Realty Group NFLPA Registered Player Financial Advisor Brian Simon, ChFC®, CLU® 7910 Summerlin Lakes Drive Financial Advisor, Park Avenue Securities, LLC Fort Myers, FL 33907 15671 San Carlos Blvd. Ste 201 O: 239-768-2171 Cell: (239) 246-4991 Fort Myers, FL 33908 F: 239-768-6074 Office: (239) 489-0444 • Fax: (239) 288-6727 Email: [email protected] www.cpamassie.com [email protected] www.soldsign.com www.AdrienneWeiner.com “We Save Your Income for You to Enjoy Your Outcome” Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Eureka Painting & Handyman Svcs. Exterior Painting • Interior Painting Gutter Cleaning • Pressure Washing Lowell S. Schoenfeld Florida Board Certified Wills, Trusts & Estates Attorney 1380 Royal Palm Square Boulevard Fort Myers, Florida 33919 239-288-4149 239-936-7200 [email protected] www.eurekapainting.net [email protected] www.gskattorneys.com

Different fortable Com RICK SNYDERMAN ish Syl nd Moore Licensed Pedorthist ion a Art of Fash The Art of Fashion and Moore 1900 Trailwinds Dr. (in the Arcade in historic Fort Myers, FL 33907 downtown Ft. Myers) Ph: (239) 939-2239 Teri Moore, Owner (239) 204-9759 Fax: (239) 939-7792 2267 1st. St., Suite 12 [email protected] Ft. Myers, FL 33901 www.artoffashionandmoore.com FIT • SERVICE • QUALITY FORT MYERS We Specialize In All Widths We Will Ship Anywhere

YOUR AD COULD BE HERE FOR AS LITTLE

AS $25 PER MONTH! Michelle Schoenfeld, LCSW & Lisa Bendetowicz, LCSW www. livinghappily.org 239.208.2217 15050 Elderberry Lane, Suite 4, Fort Myers CALL 239.634.6923 Insurance and Medicare Accepted

Attorney at Law Divorce • Child Support • Visitation P: 239.333.0500 F: 239.333.0501 [email protected] www.leejustice.com 1625 Hendry Street, Suite 102 Fort Myers, Florida 33901 L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 22 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties COMMENTARY

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. Jewish unity: Call me naïve By David Harris, AJC CEO, July 17, 2017 hen I was growing up on yond the grasp of the communist world. and told her of our experience, ask- “blacklists” of rabbis, including some the West Side of Manhattan, I personally dealt with thousands ing if she could help us get married Modern Orthodox clergy, all triggered WI recall elderly men from of people. Their backgrounds could not in New York, which we did. And as if by an increasingly insular and intoler- Jerusalem ringing our doorbell a couple have been more diverse. Some were in response to our disappointment in ant Chief Rabbinate in Israel that, in of times per year. They were pious, and devout Jews who had, remarkably, Vienna, we were proudly married, un- the name of its own narrow religious they were raising money for their insti- avoided Soviet detection. Many others der a chuppah, by the first female rabbi views, would divide the Jewish people tutions in Israel. were staunchly atheist. And, of course, ordained in the United States, Sally and drive a wedge between Israel and My mother and I lived alone, and, as there were those in between. Some Priesand. the Diaspora. a working woman, she had very limited were deeply Zionist, others showed Again, we were Jews. No one else And we see too many Israeli politi- disposable income, but she never let little interest in Israel. But to us on the was going to tell us who we were – or cians running for cover, fearful of alien- them leave empty-handed. front line, they were all Jews, and that’s were not – and, whatever our dismay with ating this group of voters and their po- When I asked her why she would what really mattered. We were there to the Vienna incident, we moved ahead. litical parties, even as the consequences give money to people who, it was obvi- welcome them, assist them, and plant Then, to fast forward a few decades, of these actions damage Israel’s good ous, lived a very different lifestyle than the seeds for future engagement. our eldest son fell in love with a won- name and the fabric of world Jewry. ours, and why she never asked probing In the midst of this work, I had my derful Israeli woman. They decided to To be clear, in Israel’s history, those questions about the organizations they first shock after my girlfriend and I de- get married. politicians have come from both the represented, she would simply say, in cided to get married, and wanted to do At the time, they were living in left and the right – saying one thing effect: “They’re Jews. We’re Jews. We so in Vienna. Washington, so they went to the mu- to Diaspora audiences and then doing need to support one another. Hitler made We excitedly scheduled an appoint- nicipal building and got a marriage another thing entirely when push comes no distinction among Jews. We all were ment with the Orthodox rabbi (the only certificate. Legally, they were wed, and to shove at home. targeted for annihilation, irrespective one in the city at the time), only to be that marriage was recognized both in the Yet I know two things that give me of our beliefs, clothing, dietary habits, dismayed by his frigid reception. He U.S. and Israel. hope. whatever. Why should I make a distinc- was suspicious, skeptical and stern. But they also wanted a Jewish cer- First, before it’s too late, some tion?” Nothing we said about our families, our emony in Israel, so they arranged for Israeli leaders will finally take the bull My mother survived the Holocaust. stories and our passion could budge him. that, asking a liberal rabbi to preside. by the horns and show leadership and I took her words seriously. Indeed, I He wanted documented, notarized proof The rabbi happens to be married to one courage in affirming, in deed as much took them to heart and have sought to galore that we were Jews before he’d of Israel’s top diplomats. as in word, that Israel is truly the state put them into practice on a daily basis. even continue the conversation. The wedding took place in Jaffa, of all Jews, not just of a self-selected If we really are one people, then, what- Here we were, two young Jews under the chuppah, and couldn’t have segment. And in doing so, it won’t be ever our differences, we need to act as working with the wave of Soviet Jews been lovelier – other than the fact that as a favor to the Diaspora, but, far more, one people. in Vienna, barely three decades after the it was not recognized by Israel. Such as a favor to Israel itself. Forty-two years ago, I joined the Holocaust and surrounded by special personal status issues are overseen by And second, mothers are right, in Jewish communal world, getting started police units on guard for Arab terrorist the Chief Rabbinate, and our rabbi was this case my own. We are one people. in Rome and Vienna, the two transit attacks, and we were met not with open not authorized to perform marriages. We may not always agree with each points in Europe for Jews able to leave arms, but with a cold shoulder. In many cases, Israelis fly to Cyprus, other. We may argue and debate until the Soviet Union and plan new lives be- I called my mother in New York since their own country does not recog- late in the night. But heaven forbid that nize either civil marriage or, to repeat, we should allow our internal differences non-Orthodox matrimony, but our kids to undermine our shared past and future. wanted the event to take place in Israel, Alas, we have enough external enemies not a foreign country, even if it wasn’t trying to do that for us! regarded as “official.” Meanwhile, we now witness The AJC West Coast Florida contentious issues surrounding non- office, located in Sarasota, can Orthodox prayer at the Kotel (Western be reached at 941.365.4955. Wall), conversions to Judaism, and COMMENTARY BRIEFS THE DECLINE OF THE Hamas’ adoption of armed struggle PALESTINIAN NATIONAL has been no more successful than MOVEMENT Fatah’s. The suffering of Gaza’s population has not served as a The contemporary Palestinian model or source of inspiration for national movement is reaching Heading toward the High Holy Days the rest of the Palestinians. Specializing in its end. As its institutions wither By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach Coordinator, Jewish Family Services Similarly, Hamas’ decade-long outpatient hip and and its leaders fade away, there is learned how to drive when I was governance of Gaza has been knee replacement no obvious successor to take its 16 and was very careful. Hands at marred by the same charges of cor- place. With the passing of Arafat ten and two. Eyes on the road and ruption, incompetence and heavy-I and most of his colleagues, Fatah’s rearview mirror. Foot to the pedal only handedness as its PA counterpart. ability to hold its fractured parts enough to obey the speed limit. Road Those looking to Hamas as a re- together waned. rage did not officially exist and there placement for Fatah would find it The social and political milieu of wasn’t much action in Skokie. Yet, any difficult to argue that the former the West Bank and Gaza – steeped time I saw a police car I had a Pavlov- has delivered where the latter has in clannish and personal influenc- ian response of “uh-oh!” and would ad- failed. (Hussein Agha and Ahmad es – highlighted local fiefdoms as just my posture, grip the wheel a little Samih Khalidi, The New Yorker) Fatah became mired in narrow and tighter, and slow down. As we round the corner from sum- parochial turf wars. With no new EXPERT: THERE IS NO WAY leaders, no marked success in gov- mer and head toward the High Holy ernment, and no progress toward TO BOYCOTT ISRAEL Days, I find myself shifting into anoth- In a recent one-week period, 22 new peace, Fatah fundamentally disap- er familiar automatic response when I airline routes were announced from Tel peared as a real political agent. think about Rosh Hashanah and Yom Aviv to Europe and China. Israel, one Abbas’ peace policy has provided Kippur. It goes a little something like of the most developed, technological the PA with a formidable firewall this: “Now I have to sit in shul for hours and advanced countries in the world, against the kind of international and hours, reflecting on the millions of has a dense diplomatic network. Con- pressure associated with the Pal- things for which I need to ask forgive- tinuing this way, Israel will increasing- estinian national movement’s past ness. Oh lord!” And not “Oh Lord” as ly be the least-boycotted country in the violence and, since 1994, many of in, “My Rock and my Redeemer,” but world. The Swedish government, for the day-to-day governing affairs of rather “Oh Lord” as in, “argh, umph, example, loves the Palestinians with- municipal, health, education and oysh.” out doing anything for them: compa- other functions have been in Pales- My auto-response is based on two nies in Sweden are doing business with tinian hands. major assumptions: 1) I’m in trouble; Israel. It’s all a matter of pretense. Perhaps most important, Abbas 2) God is keeping score. UNESCO decided that the Jews has succeeded in insulating the With a perspective like this, it’s had nothing to do with Jerusalem be- Palestinian people from much of no wonder I dread going to services. cause the Bible is a Jewish fantasy. If the violence and destruction of the Services feel so ‘ouchy.’ The habit is Jewish history doesn’t exist, Jerusalem “Arab Spring” and from the growth to sit there and press on the bruise, the must belong to the Palestinians. They of Salafi and jihadist movements sore spot on my soul, to see where it could easily rewrite the history of Sic- in the West Bank. However, as a hurts and how much it hurts. It’s a hab- ily, making it an Arab region. result of the failure to make diplo- In a Middle East upset by major matic progress even in the shadow Read the current and recent issues civil wars in Syria, Iraq and Yemen, of a relatively friendly U.S. admin- where 200-300 people die per day, the istration, the entire notion of peace of L’CHAYIM online at Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a trivial negotiations has been discredited. continued on next page www.JewishFederationLCC.org. L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 FROM THE BIMAH Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 23

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. High Holidays “How can we build a state of mind better community?” ome of you may be familiar lowed, the future dispossesses the abbi Jonathan Sacks (no rela- that?” I answered him, “He’s the pastor with the lovely legend that after present of any contribution. Thinking tion), the former chief rabbi of the Presbyterian church a half-mile SShabbat services angels accom- ahead thus leads to constant war be- Rof Great Britain, is a modern away.” The two men had never met or pany us home. But if we run the film tween the now and the later, and po- prophet. He writes inconvenient truths felt a need to work together. The iner- backwards, what accompanies or im- larizes and even poisons the process of about the state of contemporary Juda- tia against collective action touches the pedes us coming to give and take. ism and religious Jewish world too. Before coming to the synagogue, es- 5. Ego Conflicts: Between hot- commitment in gen- Fort Myers, I created a council where pecially now on the heads and firebrands and members eral. professional and lay leaders of local High Holidays? competing with each other for a larger While Rabbi Jewish organizations could discuss the In many ways piece of the budget pie, collaboration Sacks has been wide- needs of the community and what the the angels that and collective focus no longer com- ly published since groups could do together. The council joined us were a re- mand overriding respect. the early 2000s, I fell apart after a year because the lead- ward not just for at- In contrast, consider the following discovered his work ers could not think of anything to talk  Rabbi tending but absorb- five environments typically created by  Rabbi only recently. Weav- about. Devora ing and carrying the mindful preparation for a High Holi- Marc ing Jewish and secu- What draws me to the writings of Buchen Shabbat melodies in days state of mind. Sack lar sources together, Rabbi Sacks is our shared belief that the our hearts. But is there any way to in- 1. Stillness he shows great insight into the issues Jewish people have much to contribute sure such rewards before we arrive? To 2. Silence of our time and a path forward. He be- to healing a world that is fractured by set us in the right groove, prepare us, 3. Size lieves that healthy individuals and a too much focus on self-interest. He open us to being renewed? 4. Selflessness healthy society are built through coop- writes, “I have emphasized the active Of course, there is. It is called be- 5. Serenity eration and collective action, and that rather than passive mode of Jewish ing in the High Holidays state of mind. Elaborating on each, here are the the Jewish community should play a thought: what we do, rather than how You did not know that? Of course, primary states of mind: central role in this effort. we respond to what is done to us. … you did, but you cannot shake yourself 1.Stillness: Nothing is urgent or Mostly, Sacks is skeptical of mod- The real and present challenge to Jews free to hear the message of Creation insistent, or in need of correction or ern, Western humanism, the belief that specifically, humanity generally, is to and renewal. balance. All is reassuringly quiet and each individual is a self-contained wrestle with the ever more consequen- But what holds us so tenaciously resolved; poised like a perfect still life. source of truth and fulfillment. He tial challenges of human action. To to our everyday routines? A number of 2. Silence: We are at ground zero highlights the pitfalls of this belief sys- believe either that we are accountable ties which we are not aware of or un- – no movement of sound, not even the tem. to no one, or that God will somehow willing to admit have such power over music of the harmony of the spheres. “Social responsibility needs reaf- intervene to save us from ourselves, is us. The only way to free ourselves is to The sense is that we are at the begin- firmation because it has become prob- consistent but irresponsible.” understand what chains enslave us and ning of time, just before Creation. lematic in recent times,” he writes. In a world in which people feel dis- systematically loosen or sever the fol- 3. Size: We are in an enormous “What links me to children starving in connected from others, there is a role lowing connections: space, constantly unfolding in never- Africa, or … in the fate of the unem- for Jews to play. We can be catalysts 1. Frantic – Mindless: Typically, ending waves of infinite finality. ployed, the homeless, the poor in my for collective action. Bringing people we always plunge ahead, pick up where 4.Selflessness: Ego has disap- own society, my own neighborhood? together is the first role of religion, we left off and do not stop or pause to peared. In its place is a sense of well- … Ethics has tended to turn inward, including ours. Together, we can ask, rethink. Warnings to look before you being and generosity as if all evil and becoming a matter of personal choice “How can we build a better commu- leap or think ahead fall on deaf ears. greed had been banished. rather than collective responsibility.” nity?” We are in a state of ongoingness which 5. Serenity: The convergence of This turning to personal choice and “Against the fundamentalisms of The AJC West Coast Florida often overrides any reconsideration of stillness, silence and size have come away from feeling an obligation to hate, we must create a counter-funda- office, located in Sarasota, can purpose or mission. together to celebrate the arrival, finally, the world outside ourselves leaves us mentalism of love – knowing, without be reached at 941.365.4955. 2. Noisy and Conflictive:Concen - of serenity. lonely and longing for purpose. Sacks hesitation or equivocation, that this tration is scattered. Meanwhile, God, who has been writes, “I suspect that most of us feel, is what God wants us to do: to heal a 3. Never Enough Time: Mean- waiting all this time for your receptiv- from time to time, a hunger to be more fractured world.” I agree the most with while, time and deadlines remain con- ity to Awe, to ripen and be open, wel- serious.” Rabbi Sacks on this point: at a time stantly demanding and create an atmo- comes you to a rebirth of the world and The question of what links us to when people are deeply divided and COMMENTARY BRIEFS sphere in which there is never enough assigns angels to guide you home. others is pervasive. Twenty-five years there is so much work to be done, this time to pause or to heed the call to do Rabbi Devora Buchen serves at Temple ago, I remember talking with a Meth- is what God wants of us now. things right. Beth Shalom in Cape Coral. odist minister and mentioning the name Rabbi Marc Sack serves at Temple 4.The Future: Neglected or hal- of another pastor. He asked, “Who’s Judea in Fort Myers. Heading toward the High Holy Days By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach Coordinator, Jewish Family Services BRIEFS learned how to drive when I was it developed over many years. When But something shifted this year continued from previous page 16 and was very careful. Hands at my father and I pound our chests dur- when I thought about the High Holy conflict. (Edward Luttwak, senior as- I ten and two. Eyes on the road and ing S’lach Lanu, we elbow each other Days. My very first theatre director sociate at the Center for Strategic and rearview mirror. Foot to the pedal only while reciting the specific transgres- used to say that acting was “an inside International Studies in Washington, enough to obey the speed limit. Road sions we know the other one has com- job,” meaning you had to root around interviewed by Vanessa Tomassini, Je- rage did not officially exist and there mitted, as if to say, “Busted!” Yet for on the inside and dig deep to do good rusalem Post) wasn’t much action in Skokie. Yet, any me, it feels like I am elbowing myself work. Lo and behold, that has turned time I saw a police car I had a Pavlov- the entire time, the entire holiday, in out to be true about everything. Life is THE PALESTINIAN ian response of “uh-oh!” and would ad- fact all year long, because as a mortal an inside job. MARTYRS FUND IS FLUSH just my posture, grip the wheel a little on the planet, I commit so many trans- My insides have changed and tighter, and slow down. gressions and sins that I cannot even thus my assumptions have changed. WITH BLOOD MONEY As we round the corner from sum- fathom how God can forgive me. There For one, I have come to believe that FROM AMERICA mer and head toward the High Holy is just so much to atone for. not only is God on my side, but also Cash doled out to Palestinian terrorists Days, I find myself shifting into anoth- Growing up in Chicago I was a that God is not really interested in my and their families is blood money, and er familiar automatic response when I Cubs fan and used to sit in the bleach- schlepping the scoreboard around. And it’s to the shame of the U.S. govern- think about Rosh Hashanah and Yom ers at Wrigley Field, in the blazing sun, while there are a thousand of things to ment that some of that blood money is Kippur. It goes a little something like next to the scoreboard where we would change about myself immediately if lifted from the pockets of Americans. this: “Now I have to sit in shul for hours watch the guy change the numbers for not sooner, practicing kindness is the The families of three Israeli Arabs who and hours, reflecting on the millions of every hit, run and error throughout the lesson I keep learning no matter the carried out the execution-style shoot- things for which I need to ask forgive- game. The scoreboard was gigantic, situation, especially toward myself. Go ings of two Israeli Druze policemen at ness. Oh lord!” And not “Oh Lord” as and for once, I am not exaggerating. It know. the Temple Mount in Jerusalem’s Old in, “My Rock and my Redeemer,” but was humongous. That is the size score- Gratitude is the muscle I am City are eligible for money from the rather “Oh Lord” as in, “argh, umph, board I carry around on the inside. strengthening, and I am aware of the Palestinian Martyrs Fund, as well as the oysh.” That Wrigley Field Big Mamoo, where abundance in my life more than ever families of the attackers who stabbed My auto-response is based on two I keep an ongoing tally of my slip-ups, before. This year during High Holy an Israeli policewoman at Damascus major assumptions: 1) I’m in trouble; boo-boos, faux pas, and every now and Day services, my intention is to give Gate in June. In this way, Palestinian 2) God is keeping score. then, a triumph. equal weight to atonement and grati- leaders encourage acts of terrorism. With a perspective like this, it’s For me, the High Holy Days mean tude. A spiritual Half & Half, if you More than 20,000 Palestinian no wonder I dread going to services. that I have to get out that big score- will. families receive monthly payments, Services feel so ‘ouchy.’ The habit is board, all the while trying to talk to I often tell people that the clouds according to the Jerusalem Center for to sit there and press on the bruise, the God about how this year I really am and the sky are different down here than Public Affairs. It’s a telling indicator sore spot on my soul, to see where it going to be a better person. Once and they are up north. Perhaps it’s me, and I that peaceful families with incomes hurts and how much it hurts. It’s a hab- for all. just see things differently since becom- under the poverty line receive smaller ing a Floridian, but I could swear that welfare payments than killers of Jews. Read the current and recent issues the skies full of cerulean blue and the The geopolitics of the Middle East may wispy clouds are almost within reach. be complicated, but the morality of ter- of L’CHAYIM online at Perhaps it is me, and my fierce, tender rorism is not. It’s evil and U.S. dollars heart taking notice. should not pay for it. (Editorial, Wash- www.JewishFederationLCC.org. Shanah Tovah. ington Times) L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 24 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. Starting over Agnon again as the Teshuva is a great task s God fashions something tract a story. But I tell you what I’ll s Jews we set a high bar for anew each day, so we can be do. I’ll put you in the birth column and Days of Awe arrive ourselves during the High Aborn anew and our lives re- give you a fresh start!” s the High Holy Days draw The next day, Judith and Lazer sentA Holidays. We pray for teshu- stored to wholeness through many pos- Today we are all being given the near, I am reading, as I have me on my way to Jerusalem. I visited va, repentance, a complete improve- sibilities. This is really the purpose of opportunity for a fresh start. We are for each of the past forty-six often, and I loved her very much. ment of our personalities, habits and a New Year. A New being inscribed in the Sefer Hahayim, A quirks. We atone for years, Days of Awe by Israel’s Nobel A few months later, my father died, Year expresses re- The Book of Life. We, then, must jus- Prize-winning author, Shmuel Yosef and I, heartbroken, went home for the every sin imaginable, newed hope and pos- tify the gift of life. We do this in many Agnon. funeral. I stayed home a month to be even those we know sibility. It is a new ways: by being aware of its precious- I read it each with my family. When I returned to Is- we didn’t com- opportunity, a new be- ness and its fragility; by developing to year because it is so rael, Judith’s house was once again my mit. We pray and ginning, a new start. the fullest the potentialities and sensi- rich that even after first stop. worry about being There is the tivities that come with life; by putting so many readings, She was there with love and com- entered in the Book story of any angry the whole of our intelligence to work I learn new things fort and took a full day out of her busy of Life, inscribed  Rabbi  reader who stormed in sustaining and enhancing the condi- from it. schedule to be with me. She had been Rabbi for a year of life and Solomon into a newspaper of- tions that make life possible; by cher- Nicole health. Agin As much as the very close to my father when they were Luna fice waving the - cur ishing the human habitat and shield- book means to me, children in Germany and told me won- The High Holi- rent edition, asking to see who wrote ing it form devastation and depletion;  Rabbi the person who gave derful stories about him as we walkeddays call us to be our absolute best, the obituary column. He was referred by using our free will to the utmost Stephen it to me means more. along the beach in Tel Aviv. but we can acknowledge that this is an to a cub reporter to whom he showed in advancing the cause of life; and, fi- Fuchs It was a gift from my The months passed, and when itextremely difficult task. Rosh Hasha- the column, including his own obitu- nally, by celebrating and enjoying life father’s first cousin Dr. Judith Kaplan, was time for me to return to my stud-nah and Yom Kippur expect a lot from ary. He said, “You see I am very much itself. whom I first met when I came to Israel ies in the United States, Judith gaveus. Not just service attendance, but alive. I demand a retraction!” Rabbi Solomon Agin serves at Temple as a rabbinical student in July 1970. me Days of Awe by S.Y. Agnon. deep spiritual change. Acknowledg- The reporter replied, “I never re- Shalom in Port Charlotte. Another of my father’s cousins was to This year, my wife Vickie and Iing our personal flaws, recognizing our meet me at the airport, but there was a excitedly anticipate our firs Days mistakes, of asking for forgiveness and mix-up, and she was not there. Awe at Bat Yam Temple of the Islands.granting forgiveness take courage and What do I ask from you? All I could think of was that my fa- I hope the insights I gain from thisextreme self-awareness. Fortunately, ay you and yours be asks is that we respect each other. ther had told me, “Judith is an angel.” year’s rereading of my hardcover Daysour traditions offer us hope and com- “ blessed with health and We ask G-d for emotional strength Well, we would soon find out how of Awe will inspire the members of myfort in the belief that God will help us Mhappiness throughout the to get through hard times. All He asks this angel would react to a cousin she new community. on our journey, that God thinks it is coming year.” is that we honor each other. had never seen waking her up at three Oh, it was a softcover book whenpossible and that God will be with us “May the blessings of health, peace We ask G-d for children whom we o’clock in the morning. I found the Judith gave it to me, with a cover priceas we strive to become better versions and contentment be yours.” can be proud of. All He asks is that we number and figured out how to use the of $2.95 back in 1971, but it fell apartof ourselves. The Shabbat before Rosh “May you be inscribed and sealed be kind to each other. strange Israeli public phones. My heart from continual re-readings. The $65 IHashanah we read in our Torah por- for a good, sweet year.” Day after day, year after year, we pounded as the phone rang. paid to have it custom rebound withtion about following God’s command- In this High Hol- present our lists of requests of what we Judith said, “Come immediately.” my name embossed on the cover isments: iday season, wishes want from G-d and what we want G-d Those were the most comforting words one of the most meaningful gifts I have “Surely, this Instruction which to friends and fam- to give to our loved ones. I could imagine. I got into a taxi, gave ever given myself. I enjoin upon you this day is not too ily for the upcom- Like a child let loose in Toys “R” the driver the address in Tel Aviv, and Judith has been gone for severalbaffling for you, nor is it beyond 12 ing year abound. Us, we want this and that, and can’t we before long I was at her door. She and years now, but I think of her every timereach. It is not in the heavens, that And our wishes usu- get one of these and two of those? her husband Lazer greeted me with I pick up Days of Awe. I think of her you should say, “Who among us can go ally contain what we And like the ever-patient parent, hugs, kisses and genuine joy. love and dedication and how she was up to the heavens and get it for us and hope we will have G-d says to us, “You are all My chil- Lazer owned a thriving hardware there for me, not once but twice, whenimpart it to us, that we may observe  13 Rabbi in our own lives: dren. I would be happy to fulfill all of store in the heart of Tel Aviv. Judith I needed her most. I think of her smile, it?” Neither is it beyond the sea, that Yitzchok health, happiness, your requests. All I really need to see is was a successful and busy dermatolo- and I pray that my efforts on Sanibel Minkowicz prosperity. We are, in that you treat each other with love and gist, but she was also a Jewish mother. will be worthy of her blessing. essence, blessing our friends and hop- respect. That you are sensitive to each Her first reaction after greeting me Rabbi Stephen Lewis Fuchs serves at ing that G-d will hear our blessings and other’s needs and that you care for one was, “You must be hungry; you have to Bat Yam Temple of the Islands on Sani- fulfill them. another. Would it be so terrible if you eat.” And I did. bel Island. That’s what we want from G-d. agree to disagree?” But what does G-d want from us? Is this not what our parents wanted The Jewish people were command- from us? Isn’t it what all parents want ed to offer to G-d two lambs each day, from their children? “Don’t give me Candle lighting times: one in the morning and one in the eve- the cards, the presents, the box of choc- ning. The whole world and everything olates. Just be nice to each other. Just September 1: 7:29 in it belongs to G-d, so why does He behave yourselves,” our memory tapes need our lambs? Is He maybe “hungry” replay. “Don’t fight. Look, you made September 8: 7:22 that He needs two lambs every day? him cry! You don’t have to like her, but G-d commanded us to bring sacri- you do have to be nice to her because September 15: 7:14 fices because He wants us to remember she’s your sister, she always was and September 22: 7:06 Him every day – and not just when we she always will be!” “My children, what need Him. The Midrash (Tana D’Bei do I ask from you? Only that you love September 29: 6:58 Eliyahu) records G-d’s clarification one another and respect one another.” of His position in this area. “I am not Sisters and brothers, may we all lacking anything,” He tells the Jewish be inscribed and sealed for a good and people. “My children, what do I ask sweet year, a year of health and happi- from you? Only that you should love ness and the ultimate happiness of the one another and respect one another.” arrival of Moshiach, NOW. We ask G-d for health. All He asks Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz serves at is that we love each other. Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Flor- We ask G-d for good jobs. All He ida. Bar / Bat Mitzvah Specialist Center for Judaic, Holocaust, Choosing the right photographer is an important decision. Michael Shapiro has more than 30 years experience in media and Genocide Studies and journalism. He is able to capture images that are unique, Dedicated to educating all sectors of society about unexpected and spontaneous. Jewish civilization, the Holocaust, and genocide through: • scholarship • outreach • inquiry • sharing knowledge • preserving the record • helping teachers • encouraging students

Other Services: Weddings / Family Portraits / Events 239.770.6860 Visit www.fgcu.edu/hc/ [email protected] Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director www.shapiro-photography.com L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 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. Teshuva is a great task Free to be a Jew s Jews we set a high bar for you should say, “Who among us can eople must be free to choose make those arrangements. If they will ourselves during the High cross to the other side of the sea and their own religion without ask- to undergo Tvilah (ritual immersion), Holidays. We pray for teshu- get it for us and impart it to us, that ing permission or seeking ap- we arrange for that in a proper body A 14 P va, repentance, a complete improve- we may observe it?” No, the thing is proval. That is why I stopped presiding of water, but all that is up to them and ment of our personalities, habits and very close to you, in your mouth and in over formal conversions a number of none of anyone else’s business. quirks. We atone for your heart, to observe it.” (Deut 30:11- years ago. I did not feel right serving I do want to go into the long and every sin imaginable, 14) as a “gatekeeper,” complicated history of Jewish conver- even those we know Moral improvement, personal nor did it seem fair sion except to say that the early rabbis we didn’t com- change, and forgiveness are God’s to make newcomers chose to make it a lot more restrictive mit. We pray and commandments to us during the High jump through hoops than in the Bible for a number of rea- worry about being Holidays. But God assures us that we in order to regard sons that are no longer relevant today. entered in the Book are close to accomplishing them since themselves and be In the Bible, the archetypical con- of Life, inscribed they are already in our mouth and in recognized as Jews. verts Jethro and Ruth sincerely declare  Rabbi for a year of life and our heart. Rather than having us feel (I leave that to those their acceptance of the God of Israel as Nicole health. overwhelmed or discouraged, God  Rabbi ultra-Orthodox po- the one and only God and are accepted. Luna The High Holi- promises us that it is not beyond our Bruce litical rabbis in Israel Jethro offers sacrifices at the foot of days call us to be our absolute best, reach. However, teshuva is still a great Diamond who are eager to con- Mt. Sinai and Ruth becomes the great- but we can acknowledge that this is an task, no matter how close we are to it. trol all aspects of everyone else’s life.) grandmother of King David. In neither extremely difficult task. Rosh Hasha- To accomplish it fully still seems to When people come to me to “be- case is their acceptance complicated by nah and Yom Kippur expect a lot from require divine assistance. And indeed, come Jewish,” I ask them if, in their additional regulations. The same can be us. Not just service attendance, but our tradition promises that God will heart of hearts, they already feel them- said by the many from Mesopotamia deep spiritual change. Acknowledg- help us in our quest: selves to be Jewish. Most often the an- who chose to embrace our God and ac- ing our personal flaws, recognizing our “The Holy One, blessed be God, swer is “Yes.” I then say, “So you are company us in our return to Judea after mistakes, asking for forgiveness and said to Israel: ‘My children, present Jewish. Now let’s learn how.” the Babylonian Captivity. This is what granting forgiveness take courage and to me a single opening of repentance, I encourage them to settle in to the we find in Isaiah 56:5-6: extreme self-awareness. Fortunately, small like the eye of a needle, and I will life of the synagogue, join us as often “Also the foreigners who join our traditions offer us hope and com- open for you entrances through which as possible for our weekly Friday night themselves to the LORD, to minister fort in the belief that God will help us wagons and carriages can pass.’” dinners, participate in our many adult to Him, and to love the name of the on our journey, that God thinks it is (Shir Hashirim Rabbah 5:3) education classes and weekly Torah LORD, to be His servants, everyone possible and that God will be with us As we enter into the Jewish sea- study, and come study with me as of- who keeps from profaning the Sab- as we strive to become better versions son of moral improvement, may we ten as they’d like. I also urge them to bath and holds fast My covenant; Even of ourselves. The Shabbat before Rosh approach our task with the assurance try to connect to the people they meet those I will bring to My holy moun- Hashanah we read in our Torah por- that it is possible to change, to become and learn how they express their Jew- tain and make them joyful in My house tion about following God’s command- better people. The simple act of begin- ish identities. of prayer. Their burnt offerings and ments: ning, of making one small change, is The one thing I don’t do is make their sacrifices will be acceptable on “Surely, this Instruction which enough to motivate God’s divine help, them undergo a Bet-Din, a formal Jew- My altar; For My house will be called I enjoin upon you this day is not too remaking us as newly created beings, ish tribunal that examines them and de- a house of prayer for all the peoples.” baffling for you, nor is it beyond pure and in the image of God. May we cides whether or not to allow them to Rabbi Bruce Diamond serves at The reach. 12 It is not in the heavens, that have the self-awareness and the cour- be Jewish. If the men express the desire Community Free Synagogue in Fort you should say, “Who among us can go age to begin. to undergo a Brit, we go to a doctor to Myers. up to the heavens and get it for us and Rabbi Nicole Luna serves at Temple impart it to us, that we may observe Beth El in Fort Myers. it?” 13 Neither is it beyond the sea, that What do you think? DISCOVER L’CHAYIM wants to know! THE FUN! Send your letters and comments to Ted Epstein, L’CHAYIM Editor, at [email protected]. Letters Policy Letters must include the writer’s full name, full address and daytime phone. Letters should be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length and/or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of L’CHAYIM nor its advertisers. We cannot acknowledge or publish every letter received. RECEIVE THE GIFT OF FREE JEWISH Earn CAS Credits CHILDREN’S The Jewish Federation of Lee BOOKS and Charlotte Counties is MAILED TO interested in hearing from YOUR HOME Bar / Bat Mitzvah Specialist teenagers in high school EVERY MONTH! who might like to earn CAS SHARE the experience Choosing the right photographer is an important decision. of reading with your credits though various work Funded by the Michael Shapiro has more than 30 years experience in media in the Jewish community. children as they grow with PJ Library books. and journalism. He is able to capture images that are unique, unexpected and spontaneous. If you are interested, Roth Family SIGN UP TODAY! Foundation please send the & following information to Enrollment is open to Asher Family [email protected]: Jewish families with Foundation Name children between the ages of six months to Address eight years More information, Phone # living in Lee & Charlotte contact Leni Sack Age Counties. 239.481.4449 ext. 3 Grade [email protected] School Preferred volunteer hours Other Services: Weddings / Family Portraits / Events (e.g. 2 - 5P.M. Sundays) Families can sign up for PJ Library at pjlibrary.org 239.770.6860 [email protected] Reach 5,000 local Jewish residents through L’CHAYIM. www.shapiro-photography.com For more information or to place an ad, call Jim Lewin at 239.634.6923. L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 26 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties FOCUS ON YOUTH

ourselves as we forge • Saturday, September 30 – classes. We are grateful to have him TEMPLE BETH EL SCHOOLS into another year. Yom Kippur with us – as I call it, a “labor of love.” Fort Myers Please note: There Rabbi Luna will announce where Junior Congregation will take place will not be any Religious all of the children will be reporting to on Saturday, September 16. Please re- Dale M. Cohen, R.J.E.,M.A. Ed., School on Sunday, September 3 in for their services. member that this is a mandatory part of Religious School Director honor of Labor Day weekend, and on • Kindergarten and Grade One – Rm our curriculum to prepare our students Dear Parents of the Religious School: Wednesday, September 20 in honor of # 2 – with Morah Mackenzie Sax with the Saturday morning liturgy for It is so wonderful to hear the “pitter Rosh Hashanah. Please also note that • Grades Two and Three – Rm # 1 – grades 4-7. Parents are always encour- patter” of feet in our Religious School the Religious School will be closed on with Morah Amy Shinbaum aged to attend and support. hallways. It is a great thrill to have all Sunday, October 1 for the holiday of • Grades Four through Six – Rm #s I would like to take this oppor- of our children, old and new, back into Yom Kippur. 3 and 4 – with Morah Dale Cohen tunity to wish all of our students and the swing of things. As I sit in my of- This is the information for our – Any seventh graders who would their families a Shanah Tovah Umetu- fice writing this article, I am anticipat- High Holiday Junior Congregation like to attend will be more than kah (a Happy and a Sweet Year) filled ing the holiday of Rosh Hashanah. It Services: welcome. with great health, love, prosperity and is*Miss truly Kelly's my Ad favorite 2.qxp_Layout time 1 of 8/7/17 the 2:20year! PM Page• 1Thursday, September 21 – As always, Larry Schoenfeld will peace, and of course a great year at A time to invigorate, refresh and renew 1st day of Rosh Hashanah come and read the Torah to all of the Temple Beth El Religious School.

Where Stars are Born! 6-13. Both programs be- CHABAD HEBREW SCHOOL gin on Sunday, Septem- Charlotte County ber 17 from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Please visit www. Welcome to Chabad Hebrew School, chabadofcharlottecounty.com for the the most innovative Hebrew School school year calendar. in Charlotte County. Our school is a Our student body is made up of trendsetter in creative Jewish educa- children from various backgrounds tion for children ages 3 to 13. The and affiliations. We encourage you, as Chabad Hebrew School offers an out- a parent, to get involved, ask questions standing program that will give your and keep in touch with our school. child a solid foundation in the funda- You may very well discover that your mentals of Judaism, and will instill in child’s Hebrew School education at your child the faith, beauty and values Chabad Hebrew School will add an en- of our heritage. riching spiritual dimension to the lives Our First Taste Program, for ages of your entire family. 3-5, gives children a great introduction For more information, please call to their wonderful heritage. Our He- Sheina at 941.258.0188. brew School Program is open for ages

1952-5 Park Meadows Dr. Fort Myers, FL 33907 For a continuously updated calendar of events, visit H Pointe H Jazz www.JewishFederationLCC.org. Send updates and changes to the Directory below

H Ballet H Hip Hop to [email protected]. H H Results of Tap Lyrical a recent TEMPLE BETH EL CHABAD OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY national REFORM ORTHODOX survey of 16225 Winkler Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 204 E Mckenzie St Unit B, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 H Rabbi Nicole Luna Rabbi Simon Jacobson Contemporary 25,000 E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (941) 833-3381 families Temple educator: Dale Cohen, Ma.Ed., R.J.E E-mail: [email protected] conducted by Preschool director: Jesyca Virnig Web site: www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com President: Ellis Rabinowitz IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES Services: Saturday at 10 a.m. followed by PJ Library Phone: 433-0018 • Fax: 433-3235 a kiddush “Mommy and Me” Web site: www.templebethel.com Torah study: Wednesday at 8 p.m. Shabbat services: 7:30 p.m. Friday; Torah study Call for more information 9:00 a.m. Saturday; B’nai Mitzah 10:30 a.m. Saturday CHABAD LUBAVITCH Religious School: 9:30 a.m.-noon Sunday COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE Parents in Lee Hebrew School: 5:00-6:30 p.m Wednesday OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PJ Library is REFORM ORTHODOX and Charlotte Judaica Gift Gallery 10868 Metro Parkway, South Fort Myers Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism 5620 Winkler Road counties whose making a (The Southwest Florida Masonic Center) Fort Myers, FL 33919 children are difference in the P.O. Box 07144, Fort Myers, FL 33919 Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz TEMPLE BETH SHALOM Rabbi Bruce Diamond Phone: 433-7708 • Fax: 481-9109 (239) 277-7800 enrolled in ([email protected]) lives of families REFORM E-mail: [email protected] PJ Library 702 S.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33990 Coordinator: Natalie Fulton Web site: www.chabadswf.org www.misskellysdancecentre.com raising Jewish Rabbi Devora Buchen Adult Educator: Jessica Evers Services: Friday 5:15 p.m.; Saturday Kabbalah participated in President: Arnie Schwartz Phone: (239) 466-6671 class 9 a.m.; Shacharit 10 a.m.; Kiddush at the survey. children.. Phone: 772-4555 • Fax: 772-4625 E-mail: [email protected] noon Minyan: Monday & Thursday 7:00 a.m. Email: [email protected] E-mail: [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. Torah study with Rabbi Buchen: Shabbat 10:30 a.m. Light breakfast and Torah study with the rabbi ORTHODOX Organizations: Brotherhood, Sisterhood, every Saturday morning from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. 1716 Cape Coral Pkwy. W., Cape Coral, FL 33914 Family Service (1st Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m.) Rabbi Yossi Labkowski TEMPLE JUDEA Phone: 963-4770 SAT PREP CLASS CONSERVATIVE E-mail: [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 E-mail: [email protected] Beginning President: Jennifer Manekin Kiddush luncheon Rabbi Stephen L. Fuchs Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. President: Alan Lessack Director of Congregational Learning: Phone: 2395790296 (OctApr) Elizabeth Singer Monday-Friday morning 7:00 a.m. Monday, August 21 773-251-8862 (May-Sept) Preschool Director: Joann Goldman JLI Courses: Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. Email: [email protected] [email protected] Weekly Torah Study: Tuesday evening 7:30 p.m. Cantorial Soloist: Gregory Watson Phone: 433-0201 • Fax: 433-3371 Hebrew School: Sunday 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Web site: www.batyam.org E-mail: [email protected] Jgirls: Tuesday 6:00-7:00 p.m. to prepare for the Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday (Nov-Apr) Web site: www.tjswfl.org 7:00 p.m. Friday (May-Oct) 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 October 7 SAT Test. Saturday, 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. (Nov-Apr) Religious School: Sun. 9:30 a.m.-noon; Lawrence Dermer, Spiritual Leader - 218-3433 Jewish Current Events: Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Wed. 4:30-6 p.m. • AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee): to 12:15 p.m. (Nov-Apr) Early childhood education: Jacki Waksman - (954) 653-9053 Write: P.O. Box 84, Sanibel, FL 33957 Preschool, M-F, ages 18 months-5 years; • AJC (American Jewish Committee): Brian Lipton - (941) 365-4955 Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism “Mommy & Me,” 12 months-2 years The Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties offers one of the best SAT Prep Courses in the area and at Affiliated: United Synagogue of Conservative • Anti-Defamation League: (561) 988-2900 Judaism • B’Nai B’rith International: (941) 302-4500 great value. We charge $375 per student for the 13-class session. This includes study materials and snacks. TEMPLE SHALOM CHARLOTTE • Chevra Kadisha: HARBOR AND THE GULF ISLANDS CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS/ Gene Sipe - 841-4615 A minimum of 8 students is required; maximum of 12. Each session includes 6 math classes and 7 verbal classes. REFORM • Generations of the Shoah SWFL: 963-9347 23190 Utica Ave., P.O. Box 494675 ESTERO • Hadassah - Collier/Lee Chapter: Our teachers have vast experience in teaching the SAT Prep Class. Lynn Weiner - 598-1009 Port Charlotte, FL 33949-4675 ORTHODOX 24850 Old 41 Road, Suite 20 (in the Bernwood • Hadassah - Sharon Chapter (Charlotte County): Rabbi Solomon Agin Odette Port - (941) 505-1409 President: Gary Wein Centre) Classes are 6:30 9:00 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays Bonita Springs, FL 341357024 • Hazak 55+ Chapter: Phone: (941) 625-2116 Joyce Rosinger - 437-1566 E-mail: [email protected] Rabbi Mendy Greenberg August 21,22,28,29 Phone: 9496900 • Humanistic Jewish Havurah: Web site: templeshalomfl.com Paula Creed - 495-8484 September 5,11,12,18,19,25,26 (no class on Labor Day) Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday Web site: www.JewishBonita.com Services: Saturday at 10 a.m., followed by • Israel Bonds: Regional Headquarters: (800) 622-8017 Religious school: Sunday 10 a.m. • Jewish Community Services: 481-4449 October 2,3 Beginning Hebrew: Tuesday 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. a kiddush • Jewish National Fund: (727) 536-5263 Advanced Hebrew: Thursday 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. Memorial Tree Planting in Israel - 1-800-542-8733 Organizations: Sisterhood • Jewish War Veterans: Contact Leni Sack to register or for more information: [email protected] or 239.481.4449 x3. Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism Post 400: Commander Harvey Charter - 246-3151 • Mikvah Bashka of Southwest Florida: A registration form is also on the Federation website at www.jewishfederationlcc.org. Nechamie Minkowicz - 822-2784 Classes are held at the Federation building at 9701 Commerce Center Ct., Fort Myers. • ORT - Gulf Beaches Chapter Marina Berkovich - 566-1771 L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 FOCUS ON YOUTH Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 27

mindfulness, a technique and find themselves. Everyone, regard- fun creating shapes and counting num- TEMPLE JUDEA SCHOOLS that has been growing less of age, can examine the messiness bers. We are off to a great start. Fort Myers increasingly popular of the outside through taking an assess- Toddler Time and amongst mainstream ed- ment of one’s inside world. My goal is Toddler and Me classes Liz Singer, ucators. The Jewish community has a for the students to be the model of this Our Toddler Time classes will begin on Director of Congregational Learning practice that feeds into this very well. It self-reflection and lead the way for the Tuesday, September 5 . If you would Every spring, as I look ahead to plan- is called mussar. The concept of mus- adults in the community. like to sing, dance, cook and create fun ning the upcoming year, I always as- sar recalls the style of prayer more au- * * * memories, join our class. It is a blast. sess, what it is that Temple Judea needs thentic to the Temple era. A time when Temple Judea Preschool Moms, dads, grandparents or caretak- to offer our students to help ensure prayer was directed by the desires of Joann Goldman, Temple Judea ers are welcome to bring their children. that they have a strong connection to the individual and was much more Preschool Director It is a great way to have fun with old Judaism well into adulthood. What experiential. Initially, prayer was all This school year came quickly and our friends and meet new ones. The class can Temple Judea give them that they about mindfulness, not mindlessness. team has been hard at work creating a time is from 9:00 to 10:15 a.m. Please won’t get from other places? What The goal of Temple prayer was not to fun-filled and educational curriculum register at the preschool office. tools will help them to navigate a Jew- take anything for granted and to not for all of our students. We have so many Yoga ish life? Among my answers was find- forget to acknowledge everyone and things planned for this school year. The We are excited to bring yoga back to ing a curriculum grounded in Jewish everything involved in you being able curriculum and redesigned classrooms our school. The children are so excited values and discovering a new way to to benefit. will focus on meeting your child’s de- to learn new poses while dancing to address prayer. To help with the implementation velopmental needs and respecting the beautiful music. Miss Shana incorpo- In a recent article in Jeducation of this effort I am very excited to an- diversity of talents and interests that all rates our themes into her yoga class. It World, Shmuly Yanklowitz says that nounce that Temple Judea has been of our children have. We look forward is a great way to start off our day! typically in Jewish educational expe- accepted to participate in the Mussar to continuing to serve the needs of the Art riences the focus is on everything but Institute’s: Mussar for Children Pro- children and families at our center and The children have a beautiful art room this. Hebrew linguistics, Israel engage- gram. We were awarded this curricu- we will provide the highest quality of where they can create beautiful mas- ment, Jewish history, comfort with lum so that we might introduce it into care available. If you would like your terpieces. It is a room where anything Jewish culture…and yet character de- our weekly Religious School prayer child in a loving, nurturing and safe en- goes and you can get as messy as you velopment is something that is ignored. service. vironment, Temple Judea Preschool is want. We have all the latest art mate- One of the benefits of refining these This change will also impact the the right choice. rials for the children to use and they practices by immersing students in the prayer experience at Temple Judea We will start off the month by can’t wait to splatter, mix and recreate values that make our days richer, is that with the focus being centered around learning that everyone is special. This new colors. It is a fun room to enter! it allows students to relate to Judaism the meaning of the prayer, not just on is an important week because we will Temple Judea Preschool is the by finding thesemiddot (values) within the words. To teach tefilla (prayer) we work on sharing, taking turns, and place where children have tons of fun their daily lives. In our classrooms, the will incorporate storytelling, activities many other skills that we will continue and are well prepared when they move school year will rotate around seven and mindfulness practices. This week- to use throughout the school year. We on to elementary school. This is the core values that will connect to the hol- ly program is open to the congrega- will read many fun stories and even foundation that a child needs. We are iday season. Values are further punctu- tion and community even though it is draw self-portraits. excited to lay the first brick in the foun- ated using stories from the Torah. geared toward early learners. The hope We will begin our “study” of dation. These classroom lessons in values is to help reintroduce spirituality into shapes, letters and numbers this month If you would like to learn more are being taught to our students in tan- our sanctuary so that it might serve as too. We will learn about all the colors about Temple Judea Preschool, please For a continuously updated dem with our teachers participating in a haven for our students and the larger around us and even create some new call 239.482.1121. calendar of events, visit ongoing education that centers around community to be a place for all to seek color names. The children will have www.JewishFederationLCC.org. Send updates and changes to the Directory below to [email protected].

TEMPLE BETH EL CHABAD OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY REFORM ORTHODOX 16225 Winkler Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 204 E Mckenzie St Unit B, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 Rabbi Nicole Luna Rabbi Simon Jacobson E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (941) 833-3381 Temple educator: Dale Cohen, Ma.Ed., R.J.E E-mail: [email protected] Preschool director: Jesyca Virnig Web site: www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com President: Ellis Rabinowitz IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES Services: Saturday at 10 a.m. followed by Phone: 433-0018 • Fax: 433-3235 a kiddush Web site: www.templebethel.com Torah study: Wednesday at 8 p.m. Shabbat services: 7:30 p.m. Friday; Torah study 9:00 a.m. Saturday; B’nai Mitzah 10:30 a.m. Saturday CHABAD LUBAVITCH Religious School: 9:30 a.m.-noon Sunday COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE Hebrew School: 5:00-6:30 p.m Wednesday OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA REFORM ORTHODOX Judaica Gift Gallery 10868 Metro Parkway, South Fort Myers Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism 5620 Winkler Road (The Southwest Florida Masonic Center) Fort Myers, FL 33919 P.O. Box 07144, Fort Myers, FL 33919 Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz TEMPLE BETH SHALOM Rabbi Bruce Diamond Phone: 433-7708 • Fax: 481-9109 REFORM ([email protected]) E-mail: [email protected] 702 S.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33990 Coordinator: Natalie Fulton Web site: www.chabadswf.org Rabbi Devora Buchen Adult Educator: Jessica Evers Services: Friday 5:15 p.m.; Saturday Kabbalah President: Arnie Schwartz Phone: (239) 466-6671 class 9 a.m.; Shacharit 10 a.m.; Kiddush at Phone: 772-4555 • Fax: 772-4625 E-mail: [email protected] noon Minyan: Monday & Thursday 7:00 a.m. E-mail: [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. Torah study with Rabbi Buchen: Shabbat 10:30 a.m. Light breakfast and Torah study with the rabbi ORTHODOX Organizations: Brotherhood, Sisterhood, every Saturday morning from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. 1716 Cape Coral Pkwy. W., Cape Coral, FL 33914 Family Service (1st Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m.) Rabbi Yossi Labkowski TEMPLE JUDEA Phone: 963-4770 CONSERVATIVE E-mail: [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 E-mail: [email protected] President: Jennifer Manekin Kiddush luncheon Rabbi Stephen L. Fuchs Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. President: Alan Lessack Director of Congregational Learning: Phone: 2395790296 (OctApr) Elizabeth Singer Monday-Friday morning 7:00 a.m. 773-251-8862 (May-Sept) Preschool Director: Joann Goldman JLI Courses: Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. Email: [email protected] [email protected] Weekly Torah Study: Tuesday evening 7:30 p.m. Cantorial Soloist: Gregory Watson Phone: 433-0201 • Fax: 433-3371 Hebrew School: Sunday 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Web site: www.batyam.org E-mail: [email protected] Jgirls: Tuesday 6:00-7:00 p.m. Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday (Nov-Apr) Web site: www.tjswfl.org 7:00 p.m. Friday (May-Oct) 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. (Nov-Apr) Religious School: Sun. 9:30 a.m.-noon; Lawrence Dermer, Spiritual Leader - 218-3433 Jewish Current Events: Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Wed. 4:30-6 p.m. • AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee): to 12:15 p.m. (Nov-Apr) Early childhood education: Jacki Waksman - (954) 653-9053 Write: P.O. Box 84, Sanibel, FL 33957 Preschool, M-F, ages 18 months-5 years; • AJC (American Jewish Committee): Brian Lipton - (941) 365-4955 Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism “Mommy & Me,” 12 months-2 years Affiliated: United Synagogue of Conservative • Anti-Defamation League: (561) 988-2900 Judaism • B’Nai B’rith International: (941) 302-4500 TEMPLE SHALOM CHARLOTTE • Chevra Kadisha: HARBOR AND THE GULF ISLANDS CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS/ Gene Sipe - 841-4615 REFORM • Generations of the Shoah SWFL: 963-9347 23190 Utica Ave., P.O. Box 494675 ESTERO • Hadassah - Collier/Lee Chapter: Lynn Weiner - 598-1009 Port Charlotte, FL 33949-4675 ORTHODOX 24850 Old 41 Road, Suite 20 (in the Bernwood • Hadassah - Sharon Chapter (Charlotte County): Rabbi Solomon Agin Odette Port - (941) 505-1409 President: Gary Wein Centre) Bonita Springs, FL 341357024 • Hazak 55+ Chapter: Phone: (941) 625-2116 Joyce Rosinger - 437-1566 E-mail: [email protected] Rabbi Mendy Greenberg Phone: 9496900 • Humanistic Jewish Havurah: Web site: templeshalomfl.com Paula Creed - 495-8484 Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday Web site: www.JewishBonita.com Services: Saturday at 10 a.m., followed by • Israel Bonds: Regional Headquarters: (800) 622-8017 Religious school: Sunday 10 a.m. • Jewish Community Services: 481-4449 Beginning Hebrew: Tuesday 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. a kiddush • Jewish National Fund: (727) 536-5263 Advanced Hebrew: Thursday 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. Memorial Tree Planting in Israel - 1-800-542-8733 Organizations: Sisterhood • Jewish War Veterans: Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism Post 400: Commander Harvey Charter - 246-3151 • Mikvah Bashka of Southwest Florida: Nechamie Minkowicz - 822-2784 • ORT - Gulf Beaches Chapter Marina Berkovich - 566-1771 L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 28 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ORGANIZATIONS

of us are capable of much kehillah – a sacred community – a fam- While our message is traditional, SHALOM LIFE CENTER more than we think. The ily that has faith in us can be the main our worship is contemporary and our Fort Myers process of teshuvah re- ingredient in creating a positive path. services combine meaningful prayers (239) 218-3433 minds us that we’re not The love of family and our people is and soaring melodies that feature the alone in our efforts. G-d eternal. The power of hope and faith Shalom Life Center Choir and Musical Lawrence & Robin Dermer is our partner in all we do. Despite the can transform our lives and the lives of Ensemble. Our Yom Kippur afternoon As we approach 5778 we’re reminded hurt, pain and doubt we may have ex- all we encounter. Unbound by the limi- healing and meditative concert will that the beginning of a new year can be perienced throughout the year, G-d’s tations and regrets of the past, there’s highlight the magnificently talented the time for renewal and a fresh start. presence gives us renewed faith and always an opportunity for a new begin- Dr. Jonathan Daitch on the violin, and Teshuvah is commonly known to mean hope to believe in ourselves and ac- ning. It’s never too late for the expecta- will be followed by afternoon Yizkor repentance, but it more accurately complish great things. tion of growth as we ask for G-d’s help and Neilah concluding service and our means returning. The new year can be We can be the biggest obstacle to in renewing ourselves and our world. third Annual Fabulous Break the Fast viewed as an opportunity to return to discovery of our highest self. When we Just as our ancient traditions unite Feast! Dates and times can be found on who we were meant to be, our highest encounter difficulties, some of us stop us with thousands of generations and our website. self. It is a time of reflection and turn- believing in ourselves, others and even bless us each year, our Shalom Life For more information on joining ing inward to focus our energy on our G-d. During the High Holy Days, we Center family nourishes our souls and us for the High Holy Days, please call spiritual self, those we care about and are called to return to faith even when fills our hearts with gratitude and love 239.218.3433 or email info@shalom toward the Divine source of healing we are disheartened and our situation for our sacred community of faith. We lifecenter.org. and hope. feels hopeless. When we remember invite you to share the High Holy Days With the call of the Shofar we pray During Shabbat Shuvah we learn that G-d is our companion, wishing with us as our cherished values are that the timeless messages of our High about Moses telling B’nei Yisrael that only for our success and happiness, we celebrated, and together we’re blessed Holy Days traditions – renewal and re- he feels too old and lacks the vitality to can be lifted from the deepest despair. with the occasion to share a powerful turn, healing and transformation, the be an effective leader. Although Moses Created in G-d’s image, we learn and profoundly meaningful and spiri- celebration of life’s potential for ful- feels despondent and almost gives up, that as we lean on G-d we have each tual experience beginning on Satur- fillment and joy – will offer everyone a he shares a powerful lesson for all of us other to lean on! The greatest gift we day, September 16 at 7:30 p.m. with spiritual journey blessed with opportu- about overcoming fear and self-doubt can give others is our faith and our our beautiful Selichot service and lav- nity for growth and meaningful insight. by becoming renewed and delivering a belief in them – our ability to see the ish dessert reception. All are welcome Shanah Tovah Umetukah. powerful sermon. good in them and look beyond their for Rosh Hashanah, Tashlich and Yom We often hold ourselves back by shortcomings, focusing on their po- Kippur services in our comfortable and giving up even before we try, and all tential. Surrounding ourselves with a picturesque sanctuary.

SWFL programs filled certificates and identity papers were at the Holocaust Museum & Educa- GENERATIONS OF THE SHOAH up quickly, so mark your forged so that the children could be tion Center of Southwest Florida, 4760 SOUTHWEST FLORIDA calendar and make reser- taken from safe houses in Warsaw to Tamiami Trail N, Ste. 7, Naples. (239) 963-9347 vations for the programs orphanages and convents. There is no charge for this pro- you will want to attend. Sendler and her colleagues took gram. RSVP to [email protected]. Outstanding variety of programs The first program for this season enormous risks as they kept detailed Tax-deductible donations so that Gen- to be presented by GenShoah for will be on Sunday, October 22 at 6:30 records of the children’s Jewish names Shoah can continue to present ex- 2017-18 season p.m. when the moving filmIrena Send- so they could be reunited with their ceptional programming are greatly Ida Margolis ler: In the Name of Their Mothers will parents after the war. They managed appreciated and can be made to the Generations of the Shoah Southwest be screened. This program is co-spon- to save the lives of at least 2,500 Jew- Holocaust Museum. Florida (GenShoah SWFL) is pleased sored by the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue ish children. Irena’s story of heroism Additional information about up- to announce its programs for the 2017- and will be held at St. Agnes Parish was suppressed during the Commu- coming GenShoah programs will be 18 season. If you are a child of Holo- Center, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, nist regime in post-war Poland, and featured in future editions of this news- caust survivors, have a relationship to Naples. The story of Irena Sendler is for decades afterwards. Sendler’s story paper and in the monthly GenShoah e- the Holocaust, or simply have an inter- an important one for many reasons. and her capacity for moral courage newsletter. To receive the GenShoah est in the Holocaust, you should be able In 1939, Irena was a young social is finally being told. For her coura- newsletter, for more information about to find a program that you will- defi worker in Warsaw. When the city’s geous actions during the Holocaust, in GenShoah, or to become involved HADASSAH nitely want to attend. This season Gen- Jews were imprisoned in the ghetto, 1965, Israel’s Yad Vashem honored her with this group, email genshoahswfl@ Collier/Lee Chapter Shoah is continuing to present public Irena appealed to her closest friends as “Righteous Among the Nations.” gmail.com. (239) 370-6220 programs, but is also offering programs to help her smuggle in food and medi- Sendler died in Warsaw in 2008. From specifically for the Second Generation cine, and smuggle out Jewish orphans. September 5 to December 18 there (2 gs). In the past, many GenShoah In a dangerous scheme, Catholic birth will be an exhibit about Irena Sendler

remember”) is a mean- they feel compelled to do something Humanistic dimensions appear HUMANISTIC JEWISH HAVURAH ingful observance adopt- Jewish. Secular Jews had trouble with throughout the traditional observance of Southwest Florida ed by secular humanistic the High Holidays from the beginning. of the Days of Awe, despite the heavy (239) 495-8484 Jews to carry on the tra- As festivals of national liberation, emphasis on divine justice and divine ditional observance that Passover and Chanukah could eas- mercy. Guilt leads to self-reflection Yom Kippur commemoration ends Yom Kippur. ily be purified of supernatural connec- and self-evaluation. Resolutions to for secular humanistic Jews Immediately following this obser- tions. As nature holidays, Sukkot and improve behavior in the coming year Paula Creed vance, a delicious break-the-fast will Shavuot could, with little effort, be are made. People seek out friends and You are invited to attend the Humanis- be served. The cost to participate in connected to the seasons and to all the neighbors to ask for forgiveness for tic Jewish Havurah Yom Kippur com- this event is $30 per person payable to secular responses they aroused. past wrongdoings and to effect recon- memoration on Saturday, September “HJH” and mailed to Maraline Rane, But Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kip- ciliation. 30 beginning at 5:00 p.m. in the East 6955 Carlisle Court, D-219, Naples, pur, as they had evolved in the Judaism While many secular Jews find the Clubhouse of Vi at Bentley Village. FL 34109. Reservations must be re- of the rabbis, seemed inseparable from High Holidays too religious for their The evening will begin with a short ceived by Monday, September 25. supernaturalist tradition. There was no tastes, Humanistic Judaism realizes Nizkor, a ceremony to preserve our For many Jews, the High Holidays seasonal happening they pointed to. that these holidays have special signifi- memory of the dead. Nizkor (“Let us are the two times during the year when Both holidays were fraught with ideas cance. If human judgment replaces di- of divine power and judgment, sin and vine judgment, and if human power be- repentance. comes the alternative to divine power, dush. Join us on this very Early Jewish secularists discarded then Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur HAZAK 55+ CHAPTER special day. these holidays as hard-core traditional- become perfect vehicles for celebrat- at Temple Judea On Thursday, Febru- ism and irrelevant to the new secular ing a humanistic philosophy of life. It (239) 433-0201 ary 15 HAZAK will visit nationalism. is appropriate for Jews at the time of the Holocaust Museum & Today, secular humanistic Jews in- the Jewish New Year to reflect on the On Sunday, September 10 at 3:30 p.m., Education Center of Southwest Florida corporate the High Holidays into their moral quality of their behavior and to HAZAK members and guests will en- in Naples. Car pools will be formed. Jewish observance, recognizing that make decisions to improve it. joy the last summer movie, A Stranger Temple Judea’s active HAZAK their continuing hold is too strong to Introspection and goal setting are Among Us, at Temple Judea. The film Chapter is a chartered member of the be ignored. But why do these holidays traditional. They are also humanistic. is about a detective assigned to a case USCJ. Dues are a modest $5 per year remain so compelling for Jewish hu- Humanistic Judaism offers a posi- of a missing person, Yaakov Klaus- per person. Membership in the organi- manists? tive voice about the Jewish present. man, and then ultimately finds herself zation is open to the community. Join The Enlightenment and Eman- The contemporary society of secular in the middle of a closely-knit commu- HAZAK and meet new friends. The cipation undermined the old belief study, individual freedom, and sexual nity of Hassidic Jews. The cost for the HAZAK Chapters are for singles or framework of the High Holidays and equality is morally better than societ- movie, snacks and soft drinks is $3 for couples. It’s an organization formed removed some of the dread. Divine re- ies that spawned the Torah and the HAZAK members and $5 for guests. by the United Synagogue of Conser- cordkeeping, supernatural rewards and Talmud. There is no need for reverent The group will have dinner after the vative Judaism to enable members to punishments, and the value of appease- nostalgia and sentimental guilt. movie at Sweet Tomatoes. For more meet and socialize with each other. Our ment ceremonies seemed less credible We offer more future and less past. information and to RSVP, contact Shir- monthly programs vary in nature. than before. The scientific spirit refuses to worship ley Schiffman by Thursday, September For additional information, please Kol Nidre, with its dismissal of the the past and to imagine that the greatest 7 at 239.395.0135. contact George or Joyce Rosinger at binding character of promises, became wisdom was uttered 3,000 years ago. Save the Dates: 239.437.1566, Bunny or Matt Law- a moral problem. Long confessions We must invent behavior to serve hu- Saturday, December 30 is the an- rence at 239.245.7708, or Shirley and breast-beating appeared unseemly. man needs – not make human lifestyles nual HAZAK Shabbat service at Tem- Schiffman at 239.395.0135. Even fasting developed a bad reputa- fit rigid, outdated behavior. ple Judea. HAZAK members will par- We wish everyone a happy, tion, offending “rational” people who ticipate in the service, have a special healthy, peaceful and sweet New Year. found no ethical value in self-inflicted guest speaker, and sponsor the Kid- Shana Tova. suffering. L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 ORGANIZATIONS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 29

No one bothered to the first-ever escalator in Southwest these stories by visiting the Virtual JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY ask anyone anything be- Florida. Museum of Southwest Jewish History OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA fore the 1950s, so if there The Lipmans were the produce at www.jewishhistorysouthwestflorida. (239) 566-1771 were Jews right here in family, operating in Lee, Collier and org. Southwest Florida since Hendry counties, and much of Collier Our Mission Establishing the Jewish trail Abraham Myers briefly passed through County’s early Jewish congregation Collecting, protecting and preserving Marina Berkovich Fort Hendry, we have no record of thrived with their help. Lee Ratner, Jewish history to celebrate the contri- On July 27, at a Southwest Florida them. Except that in 1941 a U.S. Air Jules and Jack Freeman, and Leonard bution by Jews in Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers: The Labodas of Fort Force Chaplain was assigned to the and Jack Rosen were in real estate de- every day of every year is part of our Myers film presentation at the Naples Fort Myers area for several years, the velopment since the 1950s. Lee Ratner mission. Daily News building, a remark from duration of WWII. His name is un- was unsuccessful, perhaps, because he Become a member of JHSSWF, a an audience member mesmerized me. known. did not have a brother to confide and sponsor, business associate, volunteer “Do you know how many Jews gradu- When the Labodas arrived in 1965, share this adventure and ventures with. and/or donor. Contact us at: ated in the very first West Point class?” there were as many as three dozen Lehigh Acres has been a problem for The Jewish Historical Society she asked. I did not. An audible wave Jews already living in the Fort Myers him and for Lee County. The brother of Southwest Florida splashed through the rows of about area and probably somewhat fewer in teams became hugely successful. The 899 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 116, seventy women and a few men, who points south. Freemans owned the land upon which Naples FL 34108 never thought of this curious statistic Rose and Sam Posner were the dry- Coconut Point now stands. The Rosens 239.566.1771 either. “Fifty percent,” said the wom- goods shopkeepers. They established are properly credited with the develop- [email protected] ~ www.jhsswf.org an, whose husband, as it turned out, is their first store in 1947, and are gen- ment of Cape Coral in Lee County and The Jewish Historical Society of a West Point grad, and that is why she erally considered the Jewish patriarchs Golden Gate in Collier County. Southwest Florida is a section 501(c) proudly shares this fact. of Lee County. They were beloved by You can read and hear more of (3) charitable organization. “That’s why I know,” she said. the entire community. In June, at the “There were only two graduates and Southwest Florida Historical Soci- Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida one was a Jew.” Everyone laughed, yet ety’s presentation of The Labodas of for days this seemingly unimportant Fort Myers, a couple in their late-80s Season of Events information was on my mind, and I had recalled the toaster they bought at that Wednesday, September 27 at 5:00 p.m. to find out more. store when they were first married. at Jewish Federation of Collier County office Simon M. Levy is the Jewish half When it stopped working ten years lat- Screening of The Labodas of Fort Myers, film V in the Southwest Florida Jewish of the very first West Point graduating er, Sam Posner personally exchanged Pioneers Series. Free admission. Light refreshments. Donations welcome. Learn class of 1802. Painfully little is known it for them for the identical one he about the early Jewish history of Southwest Florida from one of its most influential about him. He served in the Army for had saved on one of his warehouse families. All JHSSWF films are locally produced, locally made, and about local three years after graduating, then re- shelves. He refused to take money for history. signed and died shortly thereafter. it. The Posners were the family who Wednesday, December 20 at 5:00 p.m. That’s all. Why do I find this man’s first introduced the concept of “Jew- at Jewish Federation of Collier County office minimalistic bio so significant? -Be ish holidays” to residents of Southwest Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers Series. Free admission. Light refreshments. cause I am on the side of every Jews Florida. They took an ad in the paper Donations welcome. who had to trail-blaze. I suppose at the announcing the store closure for Jew- Sunday, January 21, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at Hilton Naples time of the Napoleonic Wars no one ish High Holy Day observances. When Celebrate Florida Jewish History Month with Guest of Honor Murray Hendel, took care to ask Mr. Levy any of the they returned to their store, they were a premiere of the Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers film Murray’s Mile, and a questions we ask our Jewish Historical greeted by a winding line of customers delicious buffet brunch. Naples Mayor Bill Barnett is the honorary chairman, with Society Oral Visual Project participants who simply wanted to see Jews. Their Collier County Sheriff Kevin Rambosk, Rep. Frances Rooney and many other dis- or to record his words for posterity. I, business thrived in downtown Fort tinguished Collier County guests in attendance. Tickets may be purchased at https:// for one, would have loved to know a Myers and by 1952 they built a 70,000 jhsmurrayhendel.eventbrite.com or [email protected]. For program tributes and few things more. Wouldn’t you?! sq. ft. two-story department store with sponsorships, please call the organizing committee chair directly at 914.886.3771.

– let’s hope we will do Wholehearted Living:” 1. Cultivate sons. They want a sense of community HADASSAH better. We can strive for authenticity – let go of what people and shared purpose. They roll up their Collier/Lee Chapter more understanding and think. 2. Cultivate self-compassion – sleeves and make an impact. They are (239) 370-6220 renewed energy to con- let go of perfectionism. 3. Cultivate a committed to Jewish continuity. They tinue tikkun olam. resilient spirit. 4. Cultivate gratitude are concerned about the health and Gayle Dorio As you know, the days before the and joy. 5. Cultivate intuition and trust well-being of women young and old. The summer is ending and snowbirds High Holy Days are to be spent in in- faith. 6. Cultivate creativity – let go of They are passionate about Israel.” are returning. Our “season” is begin- trospection. I would like to offer two comparison. 7. Cultivate play and rest. We try to be better each day – ning anew. Welcome back! We hope excerpts that have been affixed to my 8. Cultivate calm and stillness – let go and learn from yesterday. I pray that you are ready to join your Hadassah refrigerator and I strive to follow them. of anxiety as a lifestyle. 9. Cultivate those that hurt us learn to do better family at our luncheons and activities. The first is “Do Your Part” – Con- meaningful work. 10. Cultivate laugh- and someday change their behavior. It’s that time of year! We will soon sider these six steps to help change ter, song and dance. I pray that we understand that some- be celebrating the High Holy Days. and heal the world: 1. Live in harmony I am inspired when I read Hadas- times life isn’t fair, but we must con- This year, 5778, Rosh Hashanah be- – Choose to see the good in yourself sah magazine. It is an award-winning tinue on, and do the best we can. I pray gins on Wednesday evening, Septem- and others rather than finding fault. 2. publication filled with interesting- ar that joy, friendship, health and hap- ber 20. On behalf of everyone in my Practice kindness – Reach out to oth- ticles. After reading an issue, I con- piness fill our lives and that we reach family and my Hadassah family, may ers. 3. Extend compassion – Try to live tinue with renewed energy support- out to help others as Hadassah women: your New Year be a healthy, happy, up to Mother Teresa’s advice to “find ing this amazing organization. I love The Power of Women Who Do. joyous and peaceful one with blessings someone who thinks he is alone, and when people tell me they go to www. My husband and I are off to Israel in abundance! let him know that he is not.” 4. Listen hadassah.org and read news-breaking on a Hadassah mission from October There are many reasons to cel- – Be fully present. 5. Forgive. 6. Make articles. The website is a treasure trove 18 to November 2. I am excited and ebrate this new year. There are also amends. It is the highest form of self- of people who are making a difference can’t wait to go! I’ll be full of stories many reasons to work harder to re- respect to admit mistakes and to make in the world. and share the experience when we re- pair our world. As we examine the amends for them. Our Hadassah guide tells us: turn! L’Shanah Tovah! Best Wishes past year – its positives and negatives The second is “Guideposts for “Women join Hadassah for many rea- and see you soon!

Guest lecturer Dr. Shou- liaison officer in the West Bank and to much introduction needed here. In co- ZIONIST ORG. of AMERICA la Romano Horing: Dr. the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. He sponsorship with Chabad of Naples, Southwest Florida Chapter Horing was born and also holds a BA from the Hebrew Uni- famed military analyst and FOX News (914) 329-1024 raised in Israel, and is an versity of Jerusalem, master’s degrees contributor Colonel Ralph Peters is a attorney, law professor, from Villanova University and West retired United States Army lieutenant ZOA of SWFL programming radio show host, opinion columnist Chester University, and a doctorate colonel and author. He has published for upcoming season and national public speaker that has from Kings College London. His top- numerous essays on strategy in mili- Jerrold L. Sobel lived in the United States since 1980. ic of discussion will be “Nakba: The tary journals such as Parameters, Mili- Wednesday, November 8: Her political articles are regularly pub- Source of Arab Israeli Conflict.” tary Review and Armed Forces Review. A screening of the critically-acclaimed lished in Ynetnews, the most popular Wednesday, February 21, 2018: He formerly wrote a regular opinion movie Faithkeepers. Faithkeepers is a English language Israeli newspaper, Dr. Samuel Edelman: Dr. Edelman is column for the New York Post and has documentary produced by Jerusalem as well as USA Today, the Kansas City currently the academic consultant for written essays and columns for many U, the creators of other award-winning Star, the Jewish Press, the KC Jewish the Israel on Campus Coalition, for- other journals. His topic of discussion works such as Mekonen, Beneath the Chronicle and other Jewish journals. mer executive director of Scholars for will be “A World on Fire: Strategic Helmet and Crossing the Line. It de- Her topic for discussion will be “For Peace in the Middle East, and former Challenges for the United States and picts the physical, religious and cultur- the Foreseeable Future: No Chance For Dean of the College of Arts and Sci- Israel.” al genocide being inflicted in Iraq by Peace or Ultimate Deal.” ences at the American Jewish Univer- All the above ZOA events are held ISIS and other extremist groups. Wednesday, January 10, 2018: sity (formerly the University of Juda- at Chabad Jewish Center of Naples at Dr. Zuhdi Jasser, President of Dr. Asaf Romirowsky: For all those in ism) in Los Angeles. He is also a CSU 7:30 p.m. The cost is $20 per person the American-Islamic Forum for De- the Israeli advocacy community, this Chico emeritus professor of Jewish, for each ZOA event except Col. Peters, mocracy, endorsed the film as -fol man does not need much of an intro- Israel and Holocaust Studies, as well which is $30; $7 per student admission. lows: “Faithkeepers is a timely film duction. Asaf Romirowsky is a Mid- as Rhetoric and Communication Stud- For more information, or to make that raises public awareness of the dle East researcher. He is an adjunct ies. His topic of discussion will be a payment and reservation, contact plight of minorities under the oppres- scholar at the Foundation for Defense “Zionism and Jewish Identity: Who Jerry Sobel at [email protected] or sive forces of Islamist movements and of Democracies and the Middle East We Really Are.” 914.329.1024. their regimes.” Forum. He is a former IDF (Israel De- Wednesday, March 14, 2018: Wednesday, December 6: fense Forces) International Relations Colonel Ralph Peters: Once again not L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 30 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties TEMPLE NEWS

Art Song recital in a va- tournaments have returned after a sum- widest selection of Judaica in our area. TEMPLE BETH EL riety of venues and has a mer hiatus. Please contact Karen Weiss The Gift Gallery has new merchan- TEMPLE JUDEA Fort Myers CD of Jewish liturgical at [email protected] to register dise for the holidays including a full Fort Myers (239) 433-0018 music available in Juda- for the games. Mid-week Hebrew as range of Judaica gifts, jewelry, greet- (239) 433-0201 ica stores. Also returning well as Sunday Religious School and ing cards, books, talits, kippots and an www.templebethel.com to mesmerize us with his our Learning Tree Preschool classes array of traditional to handmade con- www.tjswfl.org beautiful music is Eric have also resumed. We are excited temporary works of Israeli, American As we wind down from a long, hot Dochinger, cellist with the Artis Naples about participating in events which and local artisans. Temple Judea religious school students summer, we gear up for the very ac- Philharmonic. High Holy Day tickets will help our congregation experience This summer we had to say so-long and their families will be “finding their tive High Holy Day season. It’s a spe- are available for purchase by nonmem- the joy and fulfillment of tzedakah ini- to Susie Ferkel, who recently moved inner superheroes” on Sunday, August cial time at Temple Beth El as we pre- bers, visitors and guests by calling the tiated by our Social Action Committee from Fort Myers to The Villages in27 as they celebrate the beginning of pare for our Selichot dessert reception, temple office at 239.433.0018. under the leadership of member Do- Central Florida. Susie was a commit-the school year at this Open House pro- Rosh Hashanah services, Taschlich and We were enlightened by our TBE reen Kostel. There is a lot happening ted volunteer at Temple Beth El and thegram. The event is open to all families lunch at Lakes Park, Memorial Service Shabbat Summer Liturgy Series Ser- at TBE, from our weekly Saturday To- Jewish Federation. We wish her mazelof the community interested in learn- at our Garden of Memories Cemetery, vices as each week Rabbi Nicole Luna rah Study and Liturgy and Life classes in her new venture. She will be missed.ing more about Temple Judea’s innova- Yom Kippur services, Break Fast din- offered commentary and reflections on with Rabbi Luna to our monthly Lunch On this note, TBE is delighted to wel-tive and enriching education program. ner, Sukkot in our Sukkah, and Sim- a particular liturgical section to help and Learn, Machers and Mavens Book come new members Henry and Bar- Our monthly musical Shabbat re- chat Torah dinner and dancing with the deepen our understanding of the sacred Club, Shmoozers Dinners, program- bara Betchen, Marcy Friedland, Garyturns on Friday, September 8 at 6:30 Torah. words of the liturgy. We were also de- ming from Men’s Club and Sisterhood. and Hilary Kutner, Ryan Johnson-p.m. Come a little early to enjoy We invite you to join us for servic- lighted to welcome back the very pop- Details can be found on our website at Segal, Larry and Tobi Morgan, Barrycheese, wine and good company before es as we welcome our High Holy Day ular Jane Galler as our summer guest www.templebethel.com. and Debra Weiss, Karen Whitman,worshipping together in a lively, spiri- Cantor, Susan Berkson from Maryland. Cantorial Soloist for three services, the Temple Beth El is proud of the Jason and Rachel File, and Eric andtual and entertaining service. Cantor Berkson is highly acclaimed, final one being August 18 as we en- continuing success of our Gift Gallery, Alyssa Raab. We look forward to pro- A Membership Open House is having received her Honorary Doctor joyed a community pizza celebration located in our lobby. We invite you to viding the warmth and community theyplanned for Sunday, September 10 at of Music from Hebrew Union College. Shabbat dinner prior to services. visit as our store managers and buyers, seek at Temple Beth El. She also enjoys performing a Yiddish Sisterhood’s monthly mah jongg Louise and Dani Weiner, display the COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE of the holidays this year ning at 8:30 pm dearly departed loved ones, no matter Fort Myers TEMPLE BETH SHALOM to enjoy our beautiful Rosh Hashanah Services where they are buried. (239) 466-6671 choir, friendly congrega- Wednesday, September 2 at 7:30 pm Cape Coral Yom Kippur Services www.fortmyerssynagogue.com (239) 772-4555 tion and our very special Thursday September 21 at 10:00 am Kol Nidre, Friday, September 29 at rabbi. Children’s Service at 11:00 am 7:30 pm www.templebethshalomcc.org The Temple Beth Light luncheon and Taschlich Ceremo- Yom Kippur, Saturday September 30 All High Holiday events and worship Shalom holiday sched- ny following the morning services at Morning Service, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm services are free and open to all. It is hard to believe that summer is ule is below. Please call the office at Temple Beth Shalom Children’s Service 11:00 am A Selihot service begins at 8:00 over and the holidays are upon us. 239.772.4555 for ticket information Cemetery Visitation Service Afternoon Services: p.m. on Saturday, September 16. Seli- The holidays at Temple Beth Shalom and Break-the-Fast reservations. Sunday, September 24 at 11:00 am Mincha at 3:30 pm, followed by hot are penitential prayers and hymns are really special. We are a small con- Selichot Coral Ridge Cemetery (Chiquita and Yizkor Memorial and Neilah Services offered at the beginning of the week gregation where guests are welcomed Saturday evening, September 16 Pine Island Rd.) Concluding Shofar and Havdalah which includes Rosh Hashanah, set- and nobody is a stranger. We invite Coffee & Dessert beginning at 8:00 pm We will gather at the gate of the “Beit Break- the-Fast at sundown (reserva-ting the tone for the Days of Awe. The nonmembers to join us for any or all Havdalah and Selichot Service begin- Hakodesh” to remember and honor our tions required) service will be preceded by a Melaveh Malkah and Havdalah at 7:30 p.m. Rosh Hashanah worship begins at Erev Rosh Hasha- The annual Memorial Service will called to the Torah on Saturday, Sep-7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September TEMPLE SHALOM nah Services will be on take place at Restlawn Cemetery on tember 9 at 10:30 a.m. as a Bar Mitz-20, and continues the following morn- Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands September 20, starting at Sunday, September 24 at 11:00 a.m. vah. He is the son of temple membering at 10:00 a.m. Tashlikh (casting sins (941) 625-2116 8:00 p.m., with a special Kol Nidre Shabbat Services will be Michelle Berzak, and will lead Servic-into a body of water) and the Rabbi’s New Year Oneg to fol- held on Friday, September 29 at 8:00 es on Friday evening. open house New Year’s reception starts www.templeshalomfl.com low. p.m. Mid-week religious school classesat 4:00 p.m. at the Rabbi’s residence in Rosh Hashanah Ser- Yom Kippur Shabbat Services will will be under the direction of Gayethe Forest Country Club. The month of September is filled with vices will be on September 21, starting be held on Saturday, September 30 Druker. Applications for Beginnner’s Yom Kippur worship begins at observances. On Saturday, September at 10:00 a.m. A congregational lunch at starting at 10:00 a.m.; Children’s Ser- Hebrew and Advanced Hebrew are be- 16 there will be Selichot Services start- the Kingsway Country Club will be at vices at 2:45 p.m.; Afternoon and Yiz- ing accepted. Please call the temple of- ing at 6:30 p.m., with a dairy meal to 1:00 p.m. (Reservations are required.) kor Services at 4:00 p.m.; Concluding fice for further information. follow. Jane Galler will assist Rabbi Tashlich Services will be at 4:00 p.m. Services at 5:15 p.m. Agin. The program is to be determined. at Laishley Pier. Alex Michael Quintero will be

All holiday servic- Blowing of the Shofar 12:15 PM and takes its name from the tempo- CHABAD es will be held at The Services followed by Kiddush and rary dwelling (sukkah) in which one Charlotte County Chabad Center, 204 E Tashlich lives during this period. This festival is (941) 833-3381 Mckenzie St., Unit B, Rosh Hashana Day Two marked for its special joy (zeman sim- Punta Gorda. Friday, September 22 chateinu – time of our rejoicing) and www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com Wishing the entire Morning Service 10:00 AM by the mitzvah of the four species. Jewish community a Blowing of the Shofar 12:15 PM If you would like to join us in High Holidays with Chabad is an expe- Shana Tova, a Happy and Sweet New Yom Kippur Evening - Kol Nidrei the sukkah and/or buy your own set rience you don’t want to miss. All are Year. Friday, September 29 of Lulav and Esrog, call Chabad at welcome. Whether your background in Rosh Hashana Eve Services 7:00 PM 941.833.3381. Jewish prayer and practice is extensive Wednesday, September 20 Yom Kippur Day On Thursday, October 12 at 7:30 or limited, the services will leave you Services 7:00 PM Saturday, September 30 p.m., join us for a Simchat Torah to re- feeling enriched, connected, uplifted Rosh Hashana Community Dinner Shacharit (morning service) 10:00 AM member with dancing, L’chaim, Mitz- and energized to start your New Year following services at approximately Yizkor (memorial service) 12:30 PM va Auction and a light buffet. in a most meaningful way. There is no 8:00 PM Mincha and Neilah (closing service) On Friday, October 13, join us for seat charge; donations are greatly ap- RSVP by September 17 to 5:30 PM a Simchat Torah Day Celebration as preciated. Hebrew/English prayer 941.833.3381 Shofar and Break the Fast 7:50 PM we finish and restart the Torah with books will be provided. For more in- Rosh Hashana Day One Sukkot! The Holiday of Joy dancing, L’chaim and a special Sim- formation, call 941.833.3381 or email Thursday, September 21 Sukkot is a festival of seven days be- chat Torah Kiddush! [email protected]. Morning Service 10:00 AM ginning on 15 Tishrei (October 4),

Thursday, September Saturday, September 30: Regular Birthday Party CHABAD LUBAVITCH 21: Rosh Hashana Day services at 9:00 a.m., Yizkor at 10:45 Thursday, October 12: Sukkot/Shmi- Fort Myers 1 Kabbalah / Educational a.m., Children’s Program from 10:00 ni Atzeret Kabbalah 9:00 a.m., Servic- (239) 433-7708 Service 9:00 a.m., Ser- a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Concluding Yom es at 10:00 a.m. (Yizkor at 11:00 a.m.), vices at 10:00 a.m., Sho- Kippur services at 5:30 p.m., Break- Children’s Program from 10:00 a.m. to www.chabadswf.org far Blowing 11:30 a.m., the-fast meal at 7:48 p.m. noon, services at 6:30 p.m. Followed Children’s Program from Wednesday, October 4: Sukkot ser- by a Grand Simchat Torah Party Friday Night: Welcoming the Shabbat 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Evening Ser- vices at 6:30 p.m. Friday, October 13: Sukkot/Simchat Services September 7:00 p.m., October vices 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 5: Sukkot Day 1 Torah Kabbalah 9:00 a.m., Services at 6:30 p.m. Friday, September 22: Rosh Hashana Kabbalah 9:00 a.m., Services at 10:00 10:00 a.m., Children’s Program from Saturday Morning: Kabbalah Class Day 2 Kabbalah / Educational Service a.m., Children’s Program from 10:00 10:00 a.m. to noon, services at 6:30 9:00 a.m., Schacharit (Hodu) 10:00 9:00 a.m., Services at 10:00 a.m., Sho- a.m. to noon, evening service at 6:30 p.m. a.m., Children’s Program from 10:00 far Blowing 11:30 a.m., Children’s p.m. Shana Tova. May you all be writ- a.m. to noon, Kiddush at noon Program from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 6: Sukkot Day 2 Kab- ten in The Book of Life and a year in- High Holiday Schedule: Evening Services 7:00 p.m. balah 9:00 a.m., Services at 10:00 a.m., fused with all blessing for prosperity, Sunday, September 17: Selichot ser- Friday, September 29: Kol Nidre/ Children’s Program from 10:00 a.m. to health and all that your heart desires. vices at 1:25 a.m. Yom Kippur services at 6:30 p.m., noon, evening service at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 20: Rosh Ha- Children’s Program from 6:30 to 9:00 Wednesday, October 11: Shmini shana Evening services at 7:00 p.m. p.m. Atzeret services at 6:30 p.m., Rabbi’s L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 TEMPLE NEWS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 31

10:00 a.m. Meet the pro- Please refer to the ad in this is- sary for Israel can be found in an article TEMPLE JUDEA fessional staff, as well sue of L’CHAYIM for times of all the about her in this issue. Fort Myers as members of the syna- High Holy Day services. If you are not Join Rabbi Marc Sack as he re- (239) 433-0201 gogue, to find out about a member, but interested in attending sumes his monthly Torah study session this progressive, Conser- any of the holiday services, just call the on Thursday, September 7 at noon at www.tjswfl.org vative congregation and synagogue office for more information. the offices of Myers and Brettholtz and all it has to offer. Volunteers are needed to help build Company. It is an hour of open discus- Temple Judea religious school students Congregants continue to volunteer the synagogue sukkah on Sunday, Oc- sion of Torah and Judaism where all and their families will be “finding their each month at Sally’s Café, a Salvation tober 1 at 10:00 a.m. On Friday eve- levels of background and all questions inner superheroes” on Sunday, August Army-sponsored program to feed the ning, October 6, the religious school are encouraged. Everyone is welcome 27 as they celebrate the beginning of homeless and those in need. To volun- will have a Consecration Ceremony and there is no cost to attend. the school year at this Open House pro- teer, call the synagogue office. Volun- for those students beginning their for- For more information about Tem- gram. The event is open to all families teers are needed for the following Sun- mal education, followed by a Sukkot ple Judea or upcoming programs, call of the community interested in learn- day evenings: August 27, September dinner. Reservations for the dinner are or email the synagogue office. ing more about Temple Judea’s innova- 10, September 24 and October 8. Just required. Regularly scheduled events: tive and enriching education program. call the synagogue office to volunteer. As mentioned in last month’s col- • Friday evening Shabbat services at Our monthly musical Shabbat re- The High Holy Days are just weeks umn, Temple Judea members are ex- 6:30 p.m. turns on Friday, September 8 at 6:30 away. On Saturday, September 16 at cited to welcome sh’lichah Zohar Ben • Saturday morning Shabbat services p.m. Come a little early to enjoy 9:00 p.m. the synagogue will hold a Hamu, who is arriving in Fort Myers at at 9:30 a.m. cheese, wine and good company before Selichot reception, concert and service. the end of August. We look forward to • Lunchtime Torah study with Rabbi worshipping together in a lively, spiri- The synagogue is honored to host vio- Zohar helping to foster a strong con- Sack the first Thursday of each tual and entertaining service. linist Jonathan Daitch and his accompa- nection for our synagogue and for our month A Membership Open House is nist. The event is open to the commu- community with Israel. More details • Morning minyan every Monday at planned for Sunday, September 10 at nity and there is no cost to attend. about Zohar and her role as an emis- 9:00 a.m.

7:30 p.m. on Friday, Sep- skills; sight-reading music; and voice with prayer and song. A coffee hour COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE tember 29, and continues lessons and practicum. While there follows worship. dearly departed loved ones, no matter Fort Myers the next morning at 10:00 here is no cost for this program, par- Every Saturday at 9:30 a.m., C.F.S. where they are buried. (239) 466-6671 a.m. An afternoon study ticipants will share the expense of a offers a light breakfast followed bya Yom Kippur Services session with the Rabbi professional voice teacher. Certified lively discussion of the week’s Torah Kol Nidre, Friday, September 29 at www.fortmyerssynagogue.com on the laws of repen- graduates will make a year’s commit- portion led by Rabbi Diamond until 7:30 pm tance starts at 2:30 p.m. ment volunteering to assist worship 11:30 a.m. Yom Kippur, Saturday September 30 All High Holiday events and worship Worship, including Yizkor, resumes and life-cycle events at the synagogue. Now in its 13th year, The Com- Morning Service, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm services are free and open to all. at 4:00 p.m. After Ne’ilah (concluding For more details or to register for the munity Free Synagogue, the county’s Children’s Service 11:00 am A Selihot service begins at 8:00 service), a complimentary break-the- program, email [email protected]. largest Jewish congregation, is a not- Afternoon Services: p.m. on Saturday, September 16. Seli- fast will be served to all in attendance, Rabbi Diamond will be leading for-profit open community religious Mincha at 3:30 pm, followed by hot are penitential prayers and hymns sponsored by the families of this year’s another Israel Pilgrimage from June resource led by Rabbi Bruce Diamond, Yizkor Memorial and Neilah Services offered at the beginning of the week adult B’not Mitzvah, Linda Shuster 3-13 in 2018. In the past, he conduct- D.D., who marks his 20th year in Fort Concluding Shofar and Havdalah which includes Rosh Hashanah, set- and Nancy Schwartz. ed these highly-acclaimed tours every Myers. Assisting Rabbi Diamond are Break- the-Fast at sundown (reserva-ting the tone for the Days of Awe. The The congregation will top off the other year, having recently completed C.F.S. auxiliary Rabbis Terri Goldberg tions required) service will be preceded by a Melaveh synagogue’s sukkah at 6:00 p.m. on C.F.S’ 5th Pilgrimage in June. Owing to and Thomas Miess. Malkah and Havdalah at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 4, and then wel- popular demand, the next tour, limited All of its events and programs, in- Rosh Hashanah worship begins at come the Festival of Sukkot. to 28 participants, has been moved up cluding youth and adult Jewish educa- called to the Torah on Saturday, Sep-7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September Rabbi Bruce Diamond will be- by a year. For more information and tion, are open to all and always free. tember 9 at 10:30 a.m. as a Bar Mitz-20, and continues the following morn- gin a two-year Cantor’s Certification registration, visit www.fortmyerssyna- The synagogue meets at the Southwest vah. He is the son of temple member ing at 10:00 a.m. Tashlikh (casting sins program at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Oc- gogue.com. Florida Masonic Center, 10868 Metro Michelle Berzak, and will lead Servic-into a body of water) and the Rabbi’s tober 10 at his home. The curriculum Each Friday at 6:30 p.m., The Parkway in South Fort Myers. For es on Friday evening. open house New Year’s reception starts includes prayerbook Hebrew literacy; Community Free Synagogue serves more information, please visit www. Mid-week religious school classesat 4:00 p.m. at the Rabbi’s residence in the laws and structure of Jewish wor- a traditional Sabbath dinner. It is free fortmyerssynagogue.com. will be under the direction of Gaye the Forest Country Club. ship and life-cycle events; liturgical, and reservations are never required. Druker. Applications for Beginnner’s Yom Kippur worship begins at Torah and Haftarah and cantillation At 7:30 p.m., the Sabbath is welcomed Hebrew and Advanced Hebrew are being accepted. Please call the temple office for further information. acknowledge that we are night Shabbat service terested in partaking in the Break-the- BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS all imperfect human be- September 29 – 7:30 p.m. – Kol Nidre fast, please check www.batyam.org for Sanibel ings who make mistakes service details and cost. (773) 251-8862 and want and need to im- September 30 – 10:00 a.m. – Yom For those intrepid congregants prove in the year ahead. Kippur morning service and congre- who volunteered to lead Friday night www.batyam.org For the High Holy gants’ hour services since the departure of Rabbi Days from September 20 3:00 p.m. – Music and meditation with Myra Soifer at the end of April, kudos Temple Bat Yam welcomes Rabbi Ste- to September 30, Rabbi Fuchs will be cellist Susannah Kelly and Abigail are in order. As of Friday, September phen Fuchs and his wife Vickie to the joined by Cantorial Soloist Gregory Allison 15, the 7:00 p.m. summer “off season” community for the beginning of a new Watson and by pianist Abigail Allison 4:00 p.m. – Yom Kippur afternoon start time will conclude and Friday cycle of rabbinic leadership and for the as musical accompanists. service including Yizkor/Memorial night Shabbat services will begin at start of the Jewish calendar year 5778. The sermons that Rabbi Fuchs service and Ne’ilah/closing service 7:30 p.m. with Rabbi Fuchs at the pul- As a means of establishing the ap- is preparing to present are: “Why did 6:00 p.m. – Break-the-fast in Heron pit. Saturday morning Adult Education propriate state of mind for the High Rosh Hashanah become so impor- Hall (reservations required) programming will start again on Sat- Holy Days season and also interacting tant?”; “The binding of Isaac, our most All services take place at the Sani- urday, November 4. Topics and times with the year-round congregants and troubling story”; “The magic word for bel Congregational United Church of will be provided next month. visitors, Rabbi Fuchs is conducting a repentance”; “Jonah’s message to us”; Christ, 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sani- We extend best wishes for a special Selichot service at 7:30 p.m. “Where are our relatives now?” bel, where members of the commu- healthy and peaceful New Year to all of on Saturday, September 16. Selichot The schedule of High Holy Days nity, guests and visitors are welcome our Temple Bat Yam family and friends are special prayers and poems that are services is as follows: to join with congregants. Tickets are whether in SWFL or elsewhere in the specifically tailored to help worshipers September 16 – 7:30 p.m. – Selichot not required for services but donations country or abroad. We look forward to direct their hearts and minds to the pro- service are always appreciated. For those in- having everyone together again soon. cess of repentance. September 20 – 7:30 p.m. – Erev Rosh According to Rabbi Fuchs, the Hashana service Days of Awe call for a mindset differ- September 21 – 10:00 a.m. – Rosh ent from the rest of the year when we Hashana morning service, 1:30 p.m. – hope to convince everyone how worth- Tashlich service at waterside location while we are. The Days of Awe call announced by Rabbi Fuchs on us to strip away the veneer and to September 22 – 7:30 p.m. – Friday Stay in touch throughout the month. Sign up for the Federation’s e-blasts. Get the latest information on JEWISH FEDERATION upcoming community events FOOD PANTRY and cultural activities, breaking Following is a list of staples always in need at the food pantry: news items, updates from Peanut butter and jelly Pasta sauce (pasta, not needed) Israel and lots more. Rice and beans Canned vegetables and fruits Cereal Canned meats Condiments Toiletries for adults & children

Send an email to Gift cards to places like Publix, Walmart, Target, etc., as well as cash donations, are also appreciated. [email protected] Jewish Family Services helps seniors, individuals and families with a variety of needs. L'CHAYIM SEPTEMBER 2017 32 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties