February 2021

L’ www.JewishFederationLCC.org Vol. 43, No. 6 n February 2021 / 5781 Program notes By Debbie Sanford, Program Director can’t say it enough…Thank you more comfortable at home and safer at The links are active for 48 hours me. I will be checking it constantly for to all of our Jewish Film Festival home. Plus, no traffic, no parking and, from the start times listed on the anyone who reaches out for assistance. I Sponsors and those who have reg- best of all, no fee for tickets. This gift schedule, not when you receive your Please do not call the office. I will be istered and donated to support the fes- is our thank you, EVERYONE, for emails. watching from home with everyone tival. your support over the last 25 years. The confirmation email you re- else, so email is the easiest way to The number of registrations is Please see the instructions block ceived when you registered also lists reach me. My email is debbiesanford@ overwhelming. I am so thrilled to see below where I list what to expect over step-by-step directions on how to con- jfedlcc.org. that you want this virtual festival. I the month. On the evening before each nect your devices to your TV so you ENJOY the film festival! Feel free know it’s different and certainly not as film, you will receive an email with a can watch on a larger screen. to email me to share your comments much fun than sitting together in a the- household link and password. This is Please check your spam folder about the films. ater and visiting with friends you don’t for your family. Please do not share it if you do not see these emails. I have see most of the year. with anyone else. You can use this link listed my email address everywhere, But just think…you will be much on any device in your home. so if you have any issues, please email

Instructions on how to participate in the Virtual Jewish Film Festival

Step One: Register online at www.JewishFederationlcc.org/JFF2021.

Step Two: After you register, look for your confirmation email. If you don’t receive it right away, check your SPAM folder.

Step Three: The evening before the film, keep an eye out for an email with your household’s link and password. Films can be accessed from multiple devices.

Step Four: Use your links and passwords on the dates & times listed to access the films for up to 48 hours. Please Do NOT share!

Step Five: ENJOY!! If you encounter any problems, please email Debbie: [email protected]

9701 Commerce Center Court POSTMASTER: DAT- NONPROFIT ORG Fort Myers, Florida 33908 ED RELIGIOUS NEWS U.S. POSTAGE VE

ITEMS. PAID SA VISIT THE FEDERATION ONLINE AT: & TIME SENSITIVE– FT MYERS FL $ $ BUYING: INSTANT CASH CLIP PLEASE EXPEDITE! PERMIT 521 $ $ VE

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ADVERTISER: BRUCE KODNER GALLERIES PROOF CREATED AT: 8/28/2019 11:43 AM SALES PERSON: Meredith Zajac-Leedham PROOF DUE: - NEXT RUN DATE: 09/27/19 PUBLICATION: SPEC ADS SIZE: 10 col X 20 in TR-SPAD0828111248. INDD L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 2 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION Jewish Family Services update L’ By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach & Food Pantry Coordinator y antenna is always on the lookout for kind- difference in their lives. She wrote, “You showed me Jewish news published monthly by ness and connection. These are just a few that with a little help...you can make other people’s Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties of the incidents I experience in my role as dreams come true.” What touched me the most was 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, FL 33908 M the Federation’s Jewish Family Services Department: this sentence: “I’ll never forget how much you helped (239) 481-4449 • Fax: (239) 481-0139 Online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org * The people who call to us when no one else would.” In case you ever doubt,  make food pantry appointments or wonder, if your support of the Federation makes a February 2021 • Volume 43, Number 6 and end the call by saying, difference, please know that it does.  Co-Presidents: Barbara Siegel & Sherri Zucker “Blessings to you,” or “Thank Our community’s level of support continues to be Board: Karen Fine • Helene Glocer you and God bless you” or “See inspiring. Thank you to everyone who drops off food, Carolyn Gora • Jerry Greenfield • Elisa Grossman you soon ma cherie.” makes donations and gives gift cards. The Progres- Andi Horowitz • Linda Idelson • Marsha Kistler • Sara Krivisky Michele Laboda • Rozzi Osterman • William Reynolds * The person who showed sive Women of SW Florida did a food drive on the Sylvia Simko • Brian Simon • Robert Thomas up to donate many Publix gift Federation’s behalf, and Valerie and Michael Franklin Executive Director: Alan Isaacs Program Director: Debbie Sanford cards with his 11-year-old son. delivered a ton of food, along with financial dona- Executive Assistant: Lori Ramos  Jodi Cohen * The Federation member tions from members. Congregations all over South- Jewish Family Services: Jodi Cohen  who called to ask a question and ended up telling west Florida contribute food as well as financially on Editor/Designer: Ted Epstein (239) 249-0699 me about hearing the phrase “East Kishinev” while a regular basis. Without all of your support it would Advertising: Lori Ramos (239) 481-4449 x5 growing up, as in “The store was so far away – in East be impossible for Jewish Family Services to provide  Kishinev,” only to recently find out it’s the name of the level and kind of support that it does. We are all L’CHAYIM invites correspondence on subjects of interest to Jewish people. Partisan political opinions will not be published, the city where his relatives actually lived. affected by the ongoing Coronavirus, and some peo- but opinions on subjects affecting the Jewish community are * The people who called asking if I could use a ple need more help than others. Every single thing welcome. All inquiries regarding copy for L’CHAYIM should be fold-up wheelchair and an infant car seat. At the drop directed to the editor. All news material must be very clearly continued on page 5 printed or typed (not in all-capital letters) and double-spaced. off, I mentioned the clients who are Electronic submissions encouraged. The editor reserves the in need and the woman’s hand flew right to edit for space and content. to her heart when she said, “I’m so Photographs should be clear, black-and-white or color prints. If you wish a photograph returned, include a stamped, glad this will be helpful.” self-addressed envelope of appropriate size. * The two families who came The Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties disclaims responsibility or endorsement of the views expressed by the to The Cadkin Foundation Food writers and claims by advertisers. Pantry for the first time and were in absolute awe at the abundance of food, toiletries and gift cards they

MARCH ISSUE IN STANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • N • received. I handed the woman who S T H A S N EDITORIAL DEADLINE: was driving a gift card for gas and A C T

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* I reread the notes I wrote about • N I

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Lee and Charlotte Counties Email Us: [email protected] or [email protected]. The Jewish Federation is proud to name The Cadkin Foundation Food Pantry in honor of • Jackie and Dr. Alan Cadkin’s commitment to supporting those in need INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 OUR FEDERATION Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 3 VE SA $ $ & BUYING: INSTANT CASH CLIP $ $ VE

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

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE

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

YOU MAKE IT HAPPEN

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

�� L�� C�� C�� S�� TRIBUTES �� L�� C�� C�� S�� In memory of Natalie from Paul Cornez Local �e�is� E�uca�on an� Culture Local �e�is� E�uca�on an� Culture Community‐wide Jewish Educa�on and Culture Programs for Community‐wide Jewish Educa�on and Culture Programs for all ages including the Jewish Film Fes�val, Jewish Author In memory of Raymond Follador all ages including the Jewish Film Fes�val, Jewish Author Events, Israel Celebra�on, Jewish genealogy, Israeli folk from Lynn & Lory Kirby Events, Israel Celebra�on, Jewish genealogy, Israeli folk dancing, social groups, etc. dancing, social groups, etc. L’CHAYIM published monthly to keep the Jewish community L’CHAYIM published monthly to keep the Jewish community In memory of Annette Goodman informed about local, na�onal and interna�onal Jewish issues. informed about local, na�onal and interna�onal Jewish issues. from Toni & Steve Goodman Community Rela�ons ac�vi�es include monitoring an�‐ Community Rela�ons ac�vi�es include monitoring an�‐ from James & JoAnn Lewin Semi�sm and issues of separa�on of church and state in the Semi�sm and issues of separa�on of church and state in the community. community. Israel Advocacy and Ini�a�ves to strengthen local Jewish In memory of Linda Idelson Israel Advocacy and Ini�a�ves to strengthen local Jewish community �es with Israel. Holocaust Educa�on through the from Ira & Sherri Zucker community �es with Israel. Holocaust Educa�on through the Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida to middle and high from Ronny & Marie Taschner Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida to middle and high school students in the community.

from Martin & Betteann Sherman school students in the community.

Overseas Overseas Funding to the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American In celebration of Marsha Kistler Funding to the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Jewish Joint �istribu�on Commi�ee �J�C� for full spectrum from Peter Goldberg & Lynn Jaffe Jewish Joint �istribu�on Commi�ee �J�C� for full spectrum social services to Israel and Jewish communi�es in �� social services to Israel and Jewish communi�es in �� countries around the world. countries around the world. In memory of Harvey Cohen Partnership ��ether rela�onship with the Hadera‐Eiron Region Partnership ��ether rela�onship with the Hadera‐Eiron Region from Allyson Cellini in Israel.

in Israel.

Local Seniors Services In honor of Chavurat Shalom Local Seniors Services Holiday baskets and teen visits to seniors and senior facili�es from Tobi Mackler Holiday baskets and teen visits to seniors and senior facili�es for Rosh Hashanah, Hanukah and Passover. for Rosh Hashanah, Hanukah and Passover. Seniors & Volunteers Lunch Program. Seniors & Volunteers Lunch Program. In memory of Marcia Cohen Emerging and pressing needs related to senior housing, health Emerging and pressing needs related to senior housing, health from The Tokyo Rochmans and sociali�a�on.

and sociali�a�on. from Julie Rochman Local Case Management Services Local Case Management Services Non‐sectarian, individual and family outreach, informa�on and Non‐sectarian, individual and family outreach, informa�on and In memory of Natalie Levitt, mother of Eric Levitt, referral services. referral services. who passed away at age 81 on December 9, 2020 Individual life coaching and support services.

Individual life coaching and support services.

Local Emergency Services Each month, L’CHAYIM will list your Tributes. Local Emergency Services Food Pantry and Publix food cards. Food Pantry and Publix food cards. Emergency ﬁnancial assistance grants. Please send them to Lori Ramos Emergency ﬁnancial assistance grants. Educa�on and aid associated with natural disasters.

Educa�on and aid associated with natural disasters. at the Federation at [email protected]. Local Community Services Local Community Services Support families of children with special needs. Support families of children with special needs. Addressing pressing community needs related to volunteerism, Addressing pressing community needs related to volunteerism, ins�tu�onal coopera�on and community assessment and ins�tu�onal coopera�on and community assessment and planning. STAY IN TOUCH planning.

�e�is� Community �oun�a�on Sign up for e-blasts! �e�is� Community �oun�a�on An endowment that ensures the long‐term ﬁnancial base of An endowment that ensures the long‐term ﬁnancial base of charitable, social and educa�onal programs in our community. charitable, social and educa�onal programs in our community. Needs‐based college scholarships and study scholarships in Needs‐based college scholarships and study scholarships in Israel. Israel. GET THE LATEST INFORMATION ON Projects and programs aimed at Jewish community enrichment. Projects and programs aimed at Jewish community enrichment. UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS,

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES, BREAKING NEWS, UPDATES FROM ISRAEL & MORE. L’CHAYIM delivers! Introduce your business to a POWERFUL

.org demographic and reach 4,000 readers jfedlcc dilla@ each month for pennies per reader! amypa mail to nd an e Se Send an email to For ad rates and deadlines, contact Lori at 239.481.4449 x5 [email protected] or [email protected]. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 OUR FEDERATION Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 5

Jewish Family Services update...continued from page 2 The Jewish Federation Annual Campaign provides the resources to strengthen you do to support the Federation makes joy the jokes and the shtick. There is a and enrich our Jewish community locally, in Israel and around the world. a difference. I cannot say this enough. camaraderie that occurs as we work to- I am grateful for the spirit and for- gether to provide resources for people titude of the volunteers who work in in need. So many people have volun- Q: Does the food that I donate Q: How do I know what the food The Cadkin Foundation Food Pantry. teered at The Cadkin Foundation Food have to be kosher? pantry needs? Man-O-Manischewitz – they keep me Pantry because they “want to do some- A: Nope! A: Debbie always lists what the pantry going. Laurie McConville and I set thing helpful; they want to be of use.” is low on in the weekly e-blast. up the new shelves for the pantry and I am aware of how isolated so many Q: Can only Jewish people come I’m pretty sure that experience bonded people feel during this pandemic and to the food pantry? Q: In general, what’s in each bag us for life. Some volunteers yelp with am humbled to be a part of this dedi- A: Nope! Anyone living in Lee or of food given to clients? YOU MAKE IT HAPPEN delight when they spot snacks while cated Volunteer Village. Charlotte Counties is eligible. A: Cereal, peanut butter, tuna,

unloading food donations, knowing Thank you to the following Cadkin vegetables, beans, pasta, tomato This year please consider making an additional campaign contribution in honor or memory of a loved one. Q: When can I drop off food at Because kindness is contagious, we would like to highlight your generosity in L’CHAYIM and notify personally those whom you honor. our clients will appreciate the treats. Foundation Food Pantry volunteers for sauce, fruit, rice, mac & cheese. the Federation? You may choose how your generosity is noted and how we share your mitzvah with the community. The volunteers are conscientious about their hard work: Carolyn Gora, Barbara unloading the food donations, putting Gribin, Barbara Henry, Debbie Fein- A: Monday-Thursday between 9am - Q: How much food does each everything away, keeping track of what berg, Doreen Kostel, Elise Sewall, Har- 3pm. Put your donations in the big blue family receive and how often? we’re low on, packing the bags and al- riet Lipschutz, Karen Whitman, Laurie bin on the porch. Let us know you’ve A: We provide one bag of food per dropped off food or leave your name person in a household up to six bags. �� L�� C�� C�� S�� ways thinking about how to best serve McConville, Laurie Morris, Linda Sil- Federation clients. I love listening to ver, Mary Beth & Rachel Mandelkorn, with your donation. People can come to get food and toiletries once a month. Local �e�is� E�uca�on an� Culture everyone talking about their lives and Randi & Payton Wolf, Robert Thomas, Q: Do I have to call first if I’m Local �e�is� E�uca�on an� Culture Community‐wide Jewish Educa�on and Culture Programs for what they are doing to stay strong Suzanne Orkin, Tracey Seigel, Valerie Community‐wide Jewish Educa�on and Culture Programs for planning to drop off food? Q: What if I want to volunteer for all ages including the Jewish Film Fes�val, Jewish Author during this challenging time. I also en- Franklin, Sander Simon. all ages including the Jewish Film Fes�val, Jewish Author A: Nope! (Unless it’s a big load, in the pantry? Events, Israel Celebra�on, Jewish genealogy, Israeli folk Events, Israel Celebra�on, Jewish genealogy, Israeli folk which case please call Jodi to arrange A: Tres bienski! Call Jodi Cohen at dancing, social groups, etc. dancing, social groups, etc. L’CHAYIM published monthly to keep the Jewish community a drop-off time.) 239.481.4449, x2 or email: L’CHAYIM published monthly to keep the Jewish community informed about local, na�onal and interna�onal Jewish issues. [email protected]. informed about local, na�onal and interna�onal Jewish issues. Community Rela�ons ac�vi�es include monitoring an�‐ Community Rela�ons ac�vi�es include monitoring an�‐ Semi�sm and issues of separa�on of church and state in the Semi�sm and issues of separa�on of church and state in the community. community. Israel Advocacy and Ini�a�ves to strengthen local Jewish Israel Advocacy and Ini�a�ves to strengthen local Jewish community �es with Israel. Holocaust Educa�on through the community �es with Israel. Holocaust Educa�on through the Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida to middle and high Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida to middle and high school students in the community. school students in the community.

Overseas www.jewishfederationlcc.org Overseas Funding to the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American www.jewishfederationlcc.org Funding to the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Jewish Joint �istribu�on Commi�ee �J�C� for full spectrum

Jewish Joint �istribu�on Commi�ee �J�C� for full spectrum social services to Israel and Jewish communi�es in �� social services to Israel and Jewish communi�es in �� countries around the world. countries around the world. INDIGENT FUND PACESETTERS Partnership ��ether rela�onship with the Hadera‐Eiron Region Partnership ��ether rela�onship with the Hadera‐Eiron Region INDIGENT FUND PACESETTERS in Israel. The Federation expresses special gratitude to our Indigent in Israel. FundThe FederationPacesetters expresses for the example special theygratitude set for to the our rest Indigent of us.

Local Seniors Services Local Seniors Services Fund Pacesetters for the example they set for the rest of us.

Holiday baskets and teen visits to seniors and senior facili�es Holiday baskets and teen visits to seniors and senior facili�es for Rosh Hashanah, Hanukah and Passover. Anonymous Taryn Sasser for Rosh Hashanah, Hanukah and Passover. Seniors & Volunteers Lunch Program. AnonymousJack Cohen - Marcia Can Help TarynKarin FineSasser Seniors & Volunteers Lunch Program. Emerging and pressing needs related to senior housing, health JackNaomi Cohen Bloom - Marcia& Ron WallaceCan Help KarinSherri Fine & Ira Zucker Emerging and pressing needs related to senior housing, health and sociali�a�on. NaomiBarbara Bloom & Earl & Magdovitz Ron Wallace SherriShalom & DancersIra Zucker and sociali�a�on. BarbaraToni & Stuart & Earl Morgenstein Magdovitz ShalomMellow MahDancers Jongg Local Case Management Services Local Case Management Services ToniThe Cadkin& Stuart Foundation Morgenstein Mellow Mah Jongg Non‐sectarian, individual and family outreach, informa�on and Non‐sectarian, individual and family outreach, informa�on and The Cadkin Foundation referral services. referral services. Individual life coaching and support services. Individual life coaching and support services.

Local Emergency Services Local Emergency Services Food Pantry and Publix food cards. The Jewish Federation loves our Food Pantry and Publix food cards. Emergency financial assistance grants. The Jewish Federation loves our Emergency financial assistance grants. Educa�on and aid associated with natural disasters. GENEROUS DONORS Educa�on and aid associated with natural disasters. GENEROUS DONORS Local Community Services Local Community Services Support families of children with special needs. Support families of children with special needs. Addressing pressing community needs related to volunteerism, Addressing pressing community needs related to volunteerism, ins�tu�onal coopera�on and community assessment and INDIGENT FUND / MARCIA CAN HELP ins�tu�onal coopera�on and community assessment and INDIGENT FUND / MARCIA CAN HELP planning. Gene & Andrea Sipe planning. Marty Freling Joseph & Sheila Cramer �e�is� Community �oun�a�on MartyPaul & Freling Sylvia Simko Gene & Andrea Sipe �e�is� Community �oun�a�on Judi Roth JosephHoward &Silverman Sheila Cramer An endowment that ensures the long‐term financial base of Paul & Sylvia Simko An endowment that ensures the long‐term financial base of JudiPaul RothCornez HowardHenry & SilvermanDebbie Feinberg charitable, social and educa�onal programs in our community. charitable, social and educa�onal programs in our community. PaulEdward Cornez & Beverly Drucker HenryDiane Goukler& Debbie Feinberg Needs‐based college scholarships and study scholarships in Needs‐based college scholarships and study scholarships in EdwardRobert & & Bette Beverly Batson Drucker DianeBarry &Goukler Barbara Epstein Israel. Israel. RobertGeorge & & Bette Joyce Batson Rosinger BarryPeter Goldberg& Barbara & Epstein Lynn Jaffe Projects and programs aimed at Jewish community enrichment. Projects and programs aimed at Jewish community enrichment. GeorgeRichard && JoyceJudi Davis Rosinger PeterTobi Mackler Goldberg & Lynn Jaffe

RichardLynn & Lory & Judi Kirby Davis TobiRoberto Mackler & Rachelle Luna LynnWilliam & Lory& Andi Kirby Horowitz RobertoEdward && BeverlyRachelle Drucker Luna WilliamToni & Steve & Andi Goodman Horowitz EdwardAndrew & JudithBeverly Wolff Drucker ToniRichard & Steve Bornfreund Goodman AndrewMilton & &Andrea Judith GoodmanWolff RichardBarry & CherylBornfreund Fulmer MiltonLarry & & Tobi Andrea Morgan Goodman BarryLinda &Sweet Cheryl Fulmer LarryTemple & TobiBeth MorganEl LindaTemple Sweet Judea "Tzedakah Fund" Temple Beth El L’CHAYIM delivers! TempleChavurat Judea Shalom "Tzedakah of SW Florida Fund" Chavurat Shalom of SW Florida Introduce your business to a POWERFUL

demographic and reach 4,000 readers FOOD PANTRY each month for pennies per reader! TempleFOOD Beth PANTRY El Ellen & Eric Levitt Temple BethJudea El EllenBarb && NeilEric HenryLevitt TempleLindy Smith Judea BarbRuth Lefberg& Neil Henry For ad rates and deadlines, LindySummerlin Smith Lab RuthShalom Lefberg Life Center SummerlinThe Simon Labfamily ShalomDiane & LifeNeil CenterGreene TheMoe SimonFolb family DianeShalom & DancersNeil Greene contact Lori at 239.481.4449 x5 MoeVictor Folb Gold ShalomLaurie Morris Dancers VictorKeith &Gold Elisa Grossman Laurie Morris or [email protected]. Keith & Elisa Grossman

L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 6 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION Down the rabbit hole By Brian Simon, Federation Past-President ometimes it’s fun to go down a v’Datzah). Anyway, Duo Datz actually she has described herself as “a straight sounds. In one video, she’s whispering YouTube rabbit hole. I started finished third in the contest that year, girl with a gay story,” whatever that and telling us that she’s fascinated by a Sby searching Israel Eurovision which led me to look up Israel’s finish- means). Her new music release, “The sound she makes with her fingernails. 1990. Don’t ask me how I picked that es in Eurovision. Best of Netta’s Office, Vol. 1” is based In a video from June 30, she starts as a starting point. Yeah, I saw the Will First appearance, 1973. Winner on her performance series on YouTube. by addressing a “tipping point of rac- Ferrell movie (very enjoyable), but 1978, 1979, 1998, 2018... Wait, Israel ism.” “Yes, I am fat and it wasn’t top of won in 2018? Why didn’t I know this? Jewish, and I have been mind. Eurovision And that led to Netta. getting just a little bit of is a song contest Netta Barzilai is a unique per- troubles for that, but I’m so where various Eu- former. Part singer, part DJ, part sound privileged and so lucky not ropean countries effect machine. You haven’t seen or to experience racism like and Israel submit heard anyone quite like her. Go watch other people do.” one act and com- the video of her live semifinal perfor- In 2019, Netta walked pete for votes to mance. I’ll wait. Here’s the link: www. the runway for Tel Aviv’s choose a winner. youtube.com/watch?v=x2wSNKD Fashion Week wearing a  Brian It was American 8MXQ bathing suit and a plunging Simon Idol long before She brought the house down. Yes, neckline. According to The American Idol, except for the “Amer- we are going all the way down this rab- Jerusalem Post, she earned ican” part. Anyway, the 1990 song by bit hole. both praise and criticism. Rita didn’t spark anything, so I moved From Wikipedia: Born in Hod Ha- Fashion blogger and to 1991. Sharon. Her mom is Sephardic. Her fa- Photo courtesy of Netta Barzilai body-positive activist Zo- Israel’s entry that year was Duo ther is Ashkenazi. She lived four years So, I had to watch “Netta’s Office.” har Vasievitsky wrote, “This was a PR Datz. There was definitely some unin- in Nigeria while her father worked It’s a series of simple performance vid- move that exposed (the designer) to tentional comedy watching their rou- on a project for an Israeli company. eos – just Netta in her bedroom with hundreds of thousands of new potential tine, especially with the four back-up Her winning song “Toy” hit Number her looping machine making unique customers, including fat women who singers/dancers who seemed to start One on Billboard’s U.S. Dance Club covers of hit songs. Her choices are all are sure their size will be in the store about 100 yards behind Moshe and Chart. over the place. She covers Bob Dylan’s – but it’s a lie. They’re using us – fat Orna on the stage. Moshe and Orna From Billboard: Netta is one of “The Times They Are a Changin’.” She women – for their PR spin... a woman Datz were the duo (also known as Datz their favorite LGBTQ artists (although covers Disney’s “Supercalifragilistic- who is Netta’s size has nowhere to buy expialidocious.” She raps in Spanish. a bathing suit.” The first episode, from 2019, has “For years I would sit on the side Israel Handyman Inc. almost a million hits on YouTube. She when my friends swam in the water,” introduces herself and tells us, “I just said Netta. “There is no feeling worse want a free channel with my audience, than that, to be afraid of what people like something really direct. Lately, it’s will say about you, or to be embar- been really, really hard to release new rassed by who you are and what you - Carpet Installation, Cleaning, Stretching and Repair music because of a lot of obstacles.” In are. I’m proud to do this today... I’m - Upholstery Cleaning the second episode, she calls her You- really proud to be a part of this.” - House Cleaning Tube series a chance for her and the So, that’s probably far enough viewer to “find (her) artistic direction down the rabbit hole. But one more - Handyman Repairs and musical identity.” thing. If you do watch the Eurovision Netta makes ridiculous lyrics movie on Netflix, Netta has a quick sound cool, “Everybody want to get solo in the “Song-Along” scene, com- chicken in a bucket. Everybody want ing out of the limo. I had no idea. Call or Email for a to put their finger in a socket.” Brian Simon is former president of the The thing about Netta is that her Federation. His views are not neces- FREE Estimate music seems to be less an arrange- sarily those of the Federation or its ment of notes than an arrangement of board.

(239)770–1138 This month’s Israel Bajarlia - [email protected] - Lee County advertisers This publication is brought to you each month thanks to the support of our advertisers. Please be sure to use their products and services, LET ME HELP YOU and mention that you found them in L’CHAYIM. Advanced Pain Management....16 Higginson Tax & Accounting...27 BUY OR SELL Ajax Paving Industries...... 22 Israel Handyman, Inc...... 6 Alliance Financial Group...... 8 Kushner & Kushner...... 27 YOUR HOME! 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They come complete with lesson ing of commonly touched areas such for a better year. astoundingly brave actions on behalf plans and student activities. The Work- as door handles. The new tours are A recent webinar about “Hope The- of others. Their stories span the 20th shops are sponsored by the Merrill the “Private Group Self-Guided Tour” ory” noted “hope” is more than just a and 21st centuries and include younger Kuller Educator Series and the Flor- which uses tablets, the “Morning Do- feeling – it is a powerful state of being. and older women from a wide variety ida Department of Education Com- cent-led Tour” and the new “Perfectly If we can learn how to find and ampli- of backgrounds. missioner’s Task Force on Holocaust Paradise Authentic Experience Tour,” fy hope in our lives, we have a focus The exhibit is based on the theme Education. created in conjunction with the Naples/ that will help us through the darkest of for this year’s education programming: A very special Zoom program Marco Island/Everglades Convention times. Sometimes it takes great cour- “Heroes, Heroines and Helpers.” The about parents’ hope for their children’s & Visitors Bureau. Pre-registration age to be hopeful. personal stories of the Holocaust our survival during the Holocaust will be and a minimum of four attendees is re- Holocaust survi- programs share help students and the presented on February 24 at 4:00 p.m. quired. More information on rates and vor Viktor Frankl, public remember the lessons of the Ho- “Hidden Children” will feature inter- schedules is available on HMCEC.org in his book Man’s locaust and inspire them to act against views with three SWFL residents who under the “Visit” tab. Select the “Spe- Search for Mean- the bigotry, hatred and violence in our were hidden during the Holocaust. cial Tour Programs” in the drop-down ing, talks about world today. The programs serve to en- Renee Beddouk, Maud Dahme and menu. Please visit our website for up- the terrible effects sure the memories of hope and action Renee Fritz will share their stories of dates on other programs and to sign up the loss of hope do not fade away. the brave people who took them in and for our monthly e-newsletter. had on his fellow Covid-19 has delayed the return saved their lives. All of these wom- We know the next several months  Susan prisoners. Once of visitors to SWFL classrooms, so en have graciously participated many will be difficult, but hang on to your Suarez they lost it, many our Education Department has revised times in the Survivor Presentation hope. As the “Hope Theory” webinar often died soon after. But during the many of our key student programs for programs we offer to both student and noted, “When things are hard and hope horror of the Holocaust, he also saw online use. This availability, along with public audiences. RSVPs are required is low, remember that hope is always examples of the extraordinary power active contact through phone calls and to receive the Zoom link. There is no present, and that hope is sparked by having hope gave people. emails, enables us to continue assist- charge to attend. Visit HMCEC.org for desire. As desire grows, so does hope. You will find examples of this ing teachers, students and parents to more information and to register. Allow that to be your tether to better power in the exhibit currently on dis- meet the state-mandated requirements In case you hadn’t heard, the times ahead.” Thanks for your support play in the Museum’s Estelle and for teaching about the Holocaust. Our Museum is now offering three new of our mission and the programs which in-person tours for small groups of allow us to spread the message of hope 4-12 people. As with our small group for a better world to students and the Was Alexander Hamilton Student Education Museum Field public. Jewish? PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS housands of miles from the eton, New Jersey, earned degrees from “ Old World, on a sun-kissed Brown and Northwestern before com- WHO HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE Tisland in the West Indies, a pleting his PhD in history at Cam- young boy named Alexander Hamilton bridge. His third book, The Jewish began a most unlikely journey in the World of Alexander Hamilton, will be 1750s. His meteoric rise from Caribbe- published this year by Princeton Uni- an obscurity to American founder has versity Press. He is currently working long captivated historians on his fourth book, and, more recently, theater Theodore Roosevelt audiences. Yet one crucial and the Jews. aspect of Hamilton’s life The community has remained submerged is invited to a Zoom for centuries: the weight of presentation by Dr. the evidence suggests that Porwancher on Tues- he was in fact Jewish.” day, February 2 at So writes Dr. Andrew 7:00 p.m. There will Now Porwancher who is the be time for questions Wick Cary Associate Pro- after his talk. TWO Ways to Enjoy fessor at the University The event is spon- Southwest Florida s ’ of Oklahoma, where he sored by Chaverot of Premier Art Festival teaches legal history. Drawing on un- Temple Judea. There is no cost to at- tapped sources in the West Indies, Dr. tend, but donations to help underwrite Porwancher makes the case for Ham- the cost of the presentation would be ilton’s Jewish upbringing and explores welcome. its implications for the republic he Please call the synagogue office fought to create. at 239.433.0201 to RSVP and get the Dr. Porwancher, a native of Princ- Zoom ID and password information. 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Enjoy all the fun, Or... art and activities online virtually! L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 8 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR COMMUNITY Hannah Senesh: You may not know her heroic story By Ida Margolis y God, My God high school years, she decided to learn Senesh would not be broken even after remains were brought to Israel where May these never end… more about her Jewish origins and dis- she discovered her mother was arrest- they were buried in the “Parachutists’ MThe sand and the sea covered the Zionist movement. She ed and was told that her mother would section” in the military cemetery on The rustle of the waters joined a Zionist youth movement and Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. In the same The brilliance of the sky learned Hebrew. In 1939, after finish- year, a kibbutz was founded and called The prayer of Man. ing her high school studies, Senesh Yad Hannah in her memory. Senesh Did you recognize “Eli Eli,” the went to Palestine to study agriculture. is a figure of great renown in Israel, poem above? You likely heard it as a Hannah joined a kibbutz and continued though largely unknown in most of the song in English or the original Hebrew. the writing there that she had begun in world, even though many people have It is nearly always included in Yom Hungary. heard her words and been moved by In 1941, she her beautiful poetry. joined the Haganah, Fortunately, her poetry is easily and in 1943, she en- available, books about her have been listed in the British written and, recently, a very moving Women’s Auxiliary play about her was produced by the Air Force. Later that Folksbiene National Yiddish Theater. year she was recruit- A wonderful film,Blessed is the Match, ed to join a clandes- was made about Senesh and has been tine military project on PBS and shown locally. whose ultimate pur- Hannah Senesh is like the stars pose was to offer aid and special people she wrote about: to beleaguered Euro- Hannah Senesh “There are stars whose radiance is vis- pean Jewry. She be- be killed if Hannah did not cooperate. ible on Earth though they have long HaShoah programs. This is only one of came a member of the Palmah and was Only 22, refusing to beg for clemen- been extinct. There are people whose the many beautiful poems written by trained as a paratrooper. cy and refusing a blindfold, she faced brilliance continues to light the world young poet Hannah Senesh. In mid-March 1944, she and sever- her murderers. Hannah was buried in even though they are no longer among Senesh was born in Budapest on al others were dropped into Yugoslavia the Jewish graveyard at Budapest. Her the living. These lights are particular- July 17, 1921, to a distinguished Hun- in order to aid the anti-Nazi forces and mother survived, immigrated to Pal- ly bright when the night is dark. They garian Jewish family. Her father, who enter Hungary. Within hours of enter- estine and told of her daughter’s cou- light the way for humankind.” died when she was a child, had been ing Hungary, she was captured and was rageous life and death, and brought to Hannah Senesh is indeed a light a well-known writer. When Senesh sent to prison where she was tortured to the public her daughter’s diary, poetry for humankind, a heroine worth re- encountered antisemitism during her get information, which she never gave. and plays. In 1950, Hannah Senesh’s membering. Earning a degree, interest-free… JELF provides funds to more students than ever before! n 2020, JELF (Jewish Educa- was able to allocate $1,553,739 in organization has loaned $16 million used for the next. Every dollar lives tional Loan Fund) provided 394 interest-free, last-dollar loans to to 2,400+ Jewish students. JELF is on and on.” Iinterest-free loans to Jewish these students. proud to consistently maintain a 99% About JELF @JELFLoans college, graduate and vocational JELF’s mission is to help reduce JELF provides interest-free loans students. This jump in loans came students’ financial burden so that for Jewish students in need to meet from an increase of 66% more appli- they can pursue their higher educa- their post-high school educational cations over the previous year. tion full time. JELF’s interest-free goals. Undergraduate, graduate and JELF serves students in the five- loans of last resort help students vocational school students are eligi- state region of Florida, Georgia, pay for crucial living and medical ble to apply. The application process North Carolina, South Carolina and expenses, books, supplies, trans- is open from March 1 - April 30 for Virginia (excluding metro DC) as portation and many other costs. By the full academic year, and Septem- they pursue their higher education. borrowing through JELF, this year’s ber 1-30 for spring and/or summer The total student need for all the 394 student loan recipients are esti- student repayment rate, even during semester(s) only. Sign up at jelf.org/ students in the JELF region was mated to save nearly $1 million in in- this difficult year. app to get a reminder or visit jelf. $2,352,906. terest payments over the life of their “What I love about JELF is that org/donate to learn more or to make Through student repayments, in- loans. your contribution continuously pays a contribution. creased fundraising and the generos- Since JELF first started provid- it forward,” said JELF’s Board Pres- For more information, contact ity of the Marcus Foundation, JELF ing interest-free loans in 1961, the ident, Jane Aronoff. “Dollars used David Cohen at 404.217.3724, email for one student when paid back, are [email protected] or visit jelf.org. IsIs YourYour BusinessBusiness WorthWorth Bring Your Highest Expectations MoreMore ThanThan YouYou Think?Think? Susan Glasser Find hidden value in your balance sheet. 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WE ABIDE BY CURRENT CDC GUIDELINES TO PROTECT YOUR HEALTH AND THE SAFETY OF OUR RESIDENTS AND STAFF. WE WILL NOTIFY YOU ABOUT WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE ARRIVING FOR YOUR TOUR. ©2021 Shell Point. All rights reserved. SLS-4338-21 L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 10 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR COMMUNITY ArtFest Fort Myers 2021 – Let art elevate your everyday! rtFest Fort Myers, the annual practices, ArtFest Fort Myers is limit- are touchless and cashless. ArtFest Fort at $45 per person and quantities are art festival, taking place this ing crowd size by fencing the entire fes- Myers values the safety and enjoyment limited. Visit ArtFestFortMyers.com Ayear on February 6 & 7 on the tival site and designating five entrance of everyone participating – attendees, for all the options. Your support helps downtown Fort Myers riverfront, is ex- and exit gates; instituting timed tick- artists and volunteers. ArtFest Fort Myers through this chal- cited to announce the stars of the 2021 et access – with advance online tick- The entire family art festival – the artists! Amazing ce- et sales to avoid the queue; installing will enjoy Southwest ramics, gorgeous jewelry, remarkable Florida’s premier art glass, unique paintings, wearable art festival. Take time to and so much more await you at Art- enjoy the talented high Fest Fort Myers. This family friendly, school artists’ work at safety-protocol-filled festival connects the Art Under 20 Ex- art and artists with our community in a hibit and Competition way that is so much fun. This is an art and prepare to be as- experience that delights every sense! tonished as the students Want to see all the artists? Do a create large street paint- little pre-shopping? You can visit the ings in the Chalk Block. Online Gallery at ArtFestFortMyers. Check out the We Are com and the artists will all be there Overflowing sculptural Kathleen Murphy Willer - Poster Artist with their artwork and links to their exhibit, featuring the recycling, reuse lenging time when all arts organiza- websites. And beginning January 29, and upcycling message through art. tions are focused on getting to the other you can visit and shop the artists on Food and beverage areas provide a re- side financially intact. ArtFest@Home – right from the art laxing break. Attendees often ask, “How do the festival’s main website. Not quite ready to venture to a 150 festival artists get chosen?” These You may be asking how ArtFest Charise Bundesen - Jewelry large gathering – even outdoors? Art- artists are the best-of-the-best as a jury Fort Myers is stepping up to meet the 120+ hand sanitizer stations; requiring Fest Fort Myers hears you and has panel of five professional artists spent challenge of being a “safe” event in masks at all times; hiring profession- launched an all-new online virtual art an entire Zoom day selecting them this challenging Covid time. The art al cleaning crews for all touch points; festival – ArtFest@Home – as close as from the 700 artists who applied. festival staff has attended too many reducing food vendors; creating tables your computer, phone or iPad. You will For more information, please vis- best-practices trainings to count (vir- and chairs relax locations for two or find: it ArtFestFortMyers.com. Like us on tually, of course). Following best- four only; and most selling locations ¡ An easy shopping experience fea- Facebook and follow us on Instagram - turing all the artists who are at the Tag us #artfestfm. A FIVE STAR INDEPENDENT, ASSISTED LIVING art festival in person: One shop- AND SKILLED NURSING COMMUNITY ping cart with one-click checkout. Shop from all the artists; talk to them via Zoom; watch their demo videos; listen to their roundtable discussions; see how to use their

Jenny artwork in decorating your home. Admission Coordinator ¡ Five Star Team Member All the fun activities from ArtFest Since 1997 Fort Myers: Art Under 20, high school art show; Chalk Block street painting; Publix Art Yard with art

Angela projects and entertainment; We Are Nurse Five Star Team Member Overflowing art installation based Since 2001 on recycled items; Food and Enter- Steve Palmer - Glass tainment for all to enjoy. Quick facts: There is no substitute ¡ VIP Club experiences in a virtual WHAT: art gallery and more Southwest Florida’s premier art festi- for experience. ¡ Festival posters and t-shirts to or- val featuring 150 national artists, high der shipped directly to you school art competition, street chalk art Where do you find ArtFest@ competition, fun food. Safety protocols Located directly on the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers, where residents Home? Just go to ArtFestFortMyers. added for everyone’s comfort and en- enjoy spectacular views, Calusa Harbour is a full-service, resort-style senior living com and click on the big ArtFest@ joyment. community offering spacious and comfortable apartments for independent Home logo and we will see you there WHEN: living and assisted living, as well as skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services, beginning January 29. February 6 & 7: Saturday 9 am - 5 pm outpatient therapy, and respite/short stays for those with more specialized needs. Join ArtFest’s VIP Club and take & Sunday 9 am - 4 pm Our many exceptional senior living services and amenities include restaurant-style advantage of reserved weekend park- WHERE: dining, social and recreational activities, waterfront lanai and heated swimming ing; relaxing on the VIP Club Terrace Downtown Fort Myers River District pool, fishing dock, game room, fitness center, full-service beauty salon, library, with morning treats and coffee; a de- on Edwards Drive transportation, 24-hour staff, laundry and housekeeping. lightful lunch and beverages all week- TICKETS: end long. The VIP Club packages start • Delicious all-day dining in brand-new facilities Timed tickets and entrances for ev- • Large-size apartments ideal for hosting friends eryone’s safety and peace of mind. • Only continuing care community in Southwest Florida with no buy-in Tickets starting at $5 and increas- • Enjoy activities galore in our soaring atriums ing closer to the festival. Purchase • $7 million renovation project now complete in advance for best price and time • Experienced staff makes your care a priority option, and avoid lines at the gate. Order tickets at ArtFestFortMyers. com PAYMENTS: Most locations in the art festival are cashless. Please bring your credit or debit card or phone payment app for touchless payments. PARKING: Call (239) 309-1969 Look for bright Event Parking signs to schedule a tour Assisted and flags. Parking lots adjacent to 2525 First Street Fort Myers, FL 33901 Living Facility festival; street parking; City Ga- www.CalusaHarbour.com #6066 rages are open; remote parking lots J.D. Power 2019 Certified Senior Living Community Program recognition is based on successful completion of an audit, exceeding a customer experience benchmark through a survey of recent claims servicing interactions, and a Financial strength rating. For more information, visit jdpower.com Matthew Hatala - Wood with free trolley service. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 11 Pharaoh’s Daughter unplugged By Arlene Stolnitz e are just past Hanukkah and I learned a lot about Basya while her name, Basya. According to sources recording on YouTube of the Zamir not even close to Passover, watching her in an interview with Mat- I read, in “Shmot” (Exodus), Moshe is conversation with Matthew Lazar which Wbut I am anxious to write thew Lazar on a Zoom program called saved by Pharaoh’s daughter, who was gives a more complete understanding of my column this month about a group “Taking Note: Conversations About renamed Basya. Given the name by her Basya’s passion and enthusiasm. called Pharaoh’s Daughter. That name Music in Challenging Times,” hosted parents, Basya means “daughter of a To hear her music, I refer you to intrigued me when I heard its unique by the Zamir Choral Foundation. higher spiritual source.” “Songs of Wonder,” containing the po- sound. Basya grew up in Borough Park, And finally, how does Basya’s fam- etry of Abraham Joshua Heschel, which Basya Shechter, founder and lead Brooklyn, in an Orthodox Haredi ily accept her leaving Orthodoxy? Her Basya has set to music. singer of the seven-piece world/rock family. As a young person, she began father is not thrilled with her decision, Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sarasota folk band, is also to question the lifestyle she was born and she has a complex relationship with Jewish Chorale, is a member of the Jew- a cantor and haz- into. More and more she felt a pull to her mother. Presently, though, there is ish Congregation of Venice. A retired zanista at Fire get away from the Brooklyn/Manhattan/ no tension in the rest of the family. And educator from Rochester, New York, Island Synagogue, Catskills scene. She took a gap year in she is the mother of a wonderful three- she has sung in choral groups for over which features an Israel and, eventually, due to attitude year-old daughter. 25 years and also sings in The Venice egalitarian conser- and behavior issues, was kicked out of Basya has turned to a branch of Chorale. Her interest in the preservation vative-style service. the Yeshiva she was attending. From progressive Judaism known as Jewish of Jewish music of all kinds has led to Her earthy voice there she went to Egypt and, while Renewal, which seems more relevant this series of articles on Jewish Folk blends beautifully in Cairo, she had an “aha” moment” to her. Music in the Diaspora. with the soulful when she heard Mediterranean-style I encourage you to listen to the Arlene Stolnitz sounds of the oud music played in a Kentucky Fried (a pear-shaped guitar-like instrument), Chicken restaurant! Listening to the strings and keyboard, creating a med- Middle Eastern melodies, she came to itative sound at times. Currently, be- realize her musical talents were being sides acting as cantor at Fire Island stifled by her Orthodox lifestyle. At that Synagogue, Basya is music director time, she had not yet formed her first REALTY GROUP and cantor at Romemu Brooklyn. Its band, which later was known as “Band mission is to create a place where mu- Anonymous.” sic can empower us, cause us to feel Influenced by music from folk Frye Commercial Group more deeply, and be of service to the traditions of the Middle East, she came COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE world. She is also associated with a to realize that West African music is SALES, INVESTMENT, ACQUISITION & DISPOSITION group called Darshan, whose project the “mother” of Egyptian music. Other is to bring Jewish mysticism to prayer influences were Arabic, Turkish, Israeli, HAL ARKIN through music. And she is part of an Chassidic, Gypsy and random forms of (239) 910-5363 cell • [email protected] ensemble at B’nai Jeshuran’s Shabbat Eastern music. In time, she formed the Direct (239) 689-2246 • Ofﬁ ce (239) 489-0444 services in Manhattan, where she plays group she is known for today, Pharaoh’s 7910 Summerlin Lakes Drive, Fort Myers unique instruments such as the darbuka Daughter. www.ftmyerscommercial.com (drum), riq (tambourine), frame drum So how did the band get the name (ancient early drum) and saz (stringed Pharaoh’s Daughter, which attracted me Each Ofﬁ ce Independently Owned and Operated instrument). in the first place? It all has to do with

Steve Palmer - Glass Bat Yam Temple of the Islands announces the return of our annual concert! This year's virtual musical event is A CANTOR, A PASTOR, AND A BLUEGRASS BAND Sunday, March 7 at 4pm

Senior Pastor John Danner Cantor Murray Simon Doni Zasloff & Eric Lindberg, Nefesh Mountain

Attendance is free to the public and on a first-come, first-served basis. Register now to attend by sending an email with the subject heading "Concert" to [email protected] L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 12 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST The challah that got us through 2020 – recipe by Chef Dalia 020…What a year! We have done emotional and physical escape. My go back to bake and eat an extra chal- so much this year. When there is nightly ritual had started to border on lah bread every day, without any guilt. 2an excess of time at home and a meditative. I began to savor my time Challah is my favorite Friday bread. constant hunger, an addiction to baking spent listening to Israeli music and los- Well, it is my favorite anytime bread. only makes sense. If there is one good ing myself in chopping, mashing, fold- Everyone who is afraid of making that happened as a result of the Coro- ing and mixing. This made me think bread, please raise your hand. Well, navirus, it has improved our cooking that culinary art cooking, but mostly I wish I could see you and come into and baking skills, which have been up- baking, is actually therapeutic and it your kitchen, hold your hand, and graded, without us even noticing. Ev- just hit me exactly how it works! make this bread with you. There are eryone is baking their way through the Professionals in culinary art ther- a few reasons for this: First, I’d love pandemic. apy confirmed that cooking can- cer to meet more people who read this Not to sound like a quarantine cli- tainly be a form of meditation. In other column. Second, I would like to help ché, I too, have turned to baking as a words, cooking and baking involves dispel the myth that challah bread is source of comfort. But upon devouring thoughtful meditation that can help a scary and hard to make. Third, I would my 20 loaves of challah bread in two person become more grounded, happi- love to share the joy and wonder that weeks, I realized that perhaps I was er, less anxious and so much more. is bread baking. Fourth, maybe you turning to cooking for more than just So now we have a good reason to would let me take some of the chal- Personal Chef Dalia Hemed lah bread home because mine is all can be reached at gone. [email protected]. The first thing you should know about making challah is this: do not oval challah baking pan. be afraid! I find that many people are Before you know it, you’ll be pull- Cooking in the overwhelmed by the thought of making ing off pieces of this delicious challah their own challah. Well, fear no more! bread and telling everyone nearby that Time of Covid I have a secret…I was not born “they must try this bread NOW!” be- a great challah baker. I start making fore you eat it all. Recipes from the best Jewish challah at a young age and I made a lot Ingredients Cooks in SWFL of bad challah. Bread baking is a life- (makes two large challahs): long learning process. Just remember • 7 cups pizza flour to benefit that practice make perfect. Great bread • 2 eggs sometimes takes a lot of practice and • 2 tablespoons dry yeast Temple Beth Shalom precision. Even the bad homemade • 6 tablespoons white sugar challah is still delicious and perfect • ¼ cup olive oil warm out of the oven. Just enjoy the • 1 tablespoon salt $18 making of your own challah. You can • 1¾ cup water For information, contact Robin always try again next week. For Topping: [email protected] Another thing I always say: the • 8 tablespoons olive oil difference between good challah and • 1 teaspoon dried basil great challah is a high-quality flour. • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Flour quality matters and will make • 1 teaspoon dried thyme the difference in your dough. Please do • ½ teaspoon garlic salt not use just any flour. Here comes my X Add water to the bowl of a stand secret ingredient and I hope you are sit- mixer with dough hook. Sprinkle ting down for it. I am using pizza flour water with sugar and yeast. Stir (also called flour 00 and is sold in every and let stand 5-10 minutes until supermarket), and it has made a world foamy. of difference for my challah baking. X Mix in oil, eggs, salt and 3 cups I’m giving you a great recipe, but flour. Stir in additional flour slow- the real magic comes in the simple way ly. Add enough flour until dough of braiding this challah. The simple is smooth. Knead for 10 minutes. braid is impressive and will bring the Dough should stick to the bottom house down. of the bowl but clears sides. It will One of the main stars of the carb be soft and slightly sticky. (Knead- attack in Israel this year more than any ing can also be done by hand by other year, belongs to the challah and will take closer to 10 minutes to the truth is, after you try this easy and achieve a smooth dough.) Cover tasty challah recipe, you will fully un- the dough and let rise until dou- derstand why. bled, about 2 hours. A dazzling, sublimely funny Challah bread is a treat, but I know X Divide dough into 2 equal portions. debut that follows three the distinctive braiding of the loaf X In a small bowl, combine the oil, unforgettable women who fight might be something you’re not quite basil, oregano, thyme and garlic back after life kicks them in the ready to handle. Instead, try this pull- salt. Set aside. teeth. apart challah recipe that is baked in an X Cut each piece of dough into 12 The daughter of a local (total of 24) ping pong size pieces. Federation friend, Anna Cox Grow your business X Roll the pieces into dough balls. will be joining us via Zoom to with L’CHAYIM. X Grease 2 oval challah pans and discuss her new book. place parchment paper in the bot- Reach 4,000 local tom of the pans. Like us on Facebook! Available on Amazon and at X Layer the balls into 2 pans and all bookstores. Jewish residents brush on top half of the oil mixture. Cover loaves and let rise until Please register online to through this paper. doubled, about 1 hour. Meanwhile ConneCt receive the Zoom link. with your Jewish Community For more information preheat oven to 350° for 15 min- Register at www.JewishFederationlcc.org/Virtual-Events utes prior to the full rise. or to place an ad, contact X Bake at 350° for 30 minutes or un- www.facebook.com/ Generously sponsored Lori at 239.481.4449 x5 til golden brown. Remove from the facebook.com/jfedsrq by: oven and immediately brush the or [email protected]. rest of the oil mixture on top. JewishFederationLCC L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 13 Stars of David Interested in Your By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist Editor’s note: Persons in BOLD CAPS are deemed by Nate Bloom to be Jew- Family’s History? ish 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 Judaism – and don’t identify Nate Bloom (see column at left) has become a family history expert in 10 with a faith other than Judaism as an adult. Converts to Judaism, of course, are also years of doing his celebrity column, and he has expert friends who can help identified as Jewish. when called on. Most family history experts charge $1,000 or more to do a New Television Series created by the late SHERWOOD full family-tree search. However, Bloom knows that most people want to start Coyote, a new series, started stream- SCHWARTZ. Her death leaves TINA with a limited search of one family line. ing on CBS All-Access on Thursday, LOUISE, 86, (“Ginger”) as the only January 7. Michael Chiklis stars as surviving cast member. Yes, Louise, So here’s the deal: Ben Clemens, a veteran Border Pat- born Tina Blacker, is Jewish. She has rol agent who is forced to work for never talked about being Jewish, but Write Bloom at [email protected] and enclose a phone number. Mexican smugglers of undocumented her only husband was Jewish and he Nate will then contact you about starting a limited search. If that immigrants. MARK FEUERSTEIN, was the father of her only child. Wells 49, (Royal Pains) has an important re- was not close to Louise, but she was goes well, additional and more extensive searches are possible. curring role as Frank Kerr, a successful very friendly with the others offstage. The first search fee is no more than $100. No upfront cost. Also, psychologist who is married to Clem- She stayed very much in touch with several of this newspaper’s readers have asked Bloom to locate ens’ ex-wife. Over on ABC, the come- NATALIE SCHAFER, who played dy/drama Call Your Mother premiered Mrs. “Lovey” Howell. Schafer, who friends and family members from their past, and that’s worked out on Wednesday, January 13. KYRA was born into a rich New York Jewish great for them. So contact him about this as well. SEDGWICK, 55, (The Closer) stars family, would never tell Wells her age. as an “empty-nester” mom whose adult But, in her 1991 obituary, it said she children live far away. She decides to was 91 at the time of her death. Wells move near them and re-insert herself in contacted her doctor, who told her their lives – and the kids are surprised Schafer wanted her age in her obitu- that they do need her. Sedgwick’s ary. She wanted the world to know that mother was Jewish and she identifies “even at 91 she would go out every day as Jewish. for lunch and swim nude in her pool.” A re-boot or new version of the As I write this (January 5), actress ’80s TV series The Equalizer starts on TANYA ROBERTS has just died. On CBS on Sunday, February 7. Queen January 3, there were many premature Latifah stars as Robyn McCall, an reports that she had died, age 65. Rob- enigmatic woman with a mysterious erts wasn’t a major star, but she had background who uses her extensive some good roles: she was an “angel” skills to help those with nowhere else in the last season (1981) of Charlie’s to turn. ADAM GOLDBERG, 50, is a Angels; she co-starred in the cult fan- main cast member. He’s best known as tasy classic The Beastmaster (1982) the star of the Hebrew Hammer mov- opposite actor MARC SINGER, now ies and as the Jewish army soldier who 72; she was the “Bond Girl” in “A View tragically dies in a one-on-one fight to a Kill” (1985); and she was a cast with a Nazi soldier near the end of Sav- member of That ’70s Show. She played Specializing in ing Private Ryan. the mother of lead character Donna outpatient hip and Another CBS new series, Cla- (LAURA PREPON, 40) from 1998- knee replacement rice, starts on Thursday, February 11. 2001. Years later, she revealed that she It follows FBI agent Clarice Sterling left the series because her husband, a year after (1993) the events depicted writer BARRY ROBERTS, was ter- in the film The Silence of the Lambs. minally ill with encephalitis. Barry, MICHAEL CUDLITZ, 56, a big bur- like Tanya, was from the Bronx. A per- ly guy whose father is Jewish, plays sonal source who knew Barry in high a main cast character. The series was school told me he was Jewish. Barry created by ALEX KURTZMAN, 47, and Tanya wed in 1974. She nursed and JENNY LUMET, 53. Lumet is him for five years until he died in 2006. the daughter of the late, great director For decades, her bios repeated the SIDNEY LUMET (Dog Day After- same thing – that she was born in 1955, noon and 12 Angry Men). Lena Horne the daughter of a Jewish mother and an was her maternal grandmother. Her Irish father. Well, a friend and I did husband, ALEX WEINSTEIN, is an some record checking. Turns out that artist. Tanya, born Victoria Blum, was born Obit Catch-Up in 1949. Her father, OSCAR BLUM, Dawn Wells, who played Mary Ann was Jewish. Her mother, Dorothy – the “Girl Next Door” – on the ev- Smith, was English, and it’s unclear if er-popular Gilligan’s Island, died on she was Jewish. I don’t fault Roberts December 30, age 82, from Covid-19 for shaving six years off her age in complications. In interviews, she youth-obsessed Hollywood. But may- seemed to be just the same sweet per- be it explains why she had no interest son she was on the series, which was in correcting online bio details. Like us on Facebook! ConneCt with your Jewish Community www.facebook.com/ facebook.com/jfedsrqJewishFederationLCC L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 14 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing old Elderly, oldster or senior – What do older people prefer to be called? By Rabbi Barbara Aiello Rabbi Barbara Aiello’s most popular he supermarket checkout line Having been a special education was long and social distancing teacher, Dorothea had direct experi- columns are now published in her new Tmade it seem longer. As Doro- ence with negative stereotypes. She book, Aging Jewishly, available on thea and her granddaughter Lisa moved explained that, “Years ago, persons with forward, the young man ahead of them disabilities were called ‘crippled’ or Amazon. It makes a great gift! turned abruptly ‘handicapped.’ The image those words and left the line. portrayed was a negative one. Persons treated like children. uary 2020), author Joe Pinsker poses When Lisa with differences lobbied hard for terms AJAS, the Association for Jew- the question in the title, “When Does called out to that focused on the positive – on the ish Aging Services, uses the term Someone Become ‘Old’?” Pinsker him, “Hey mis- individual; terms that didn’t lump them ‘aging population,’ while most ac- found that, “It’s surprisingly hard to ter, you’re next,” together in a group. That’s how we got ademic journals and The New York find a good term for people in late the man sneered away from ‘handicapped’ and began to Times’ stylebook caution against using life.” and responded, use ‘person with a disability or differ- ‘the elderly’ and instead advise that So let’s ask the experts – seniors “You can stand ence.’ I wish we’d do the same for older ‘older adults’ and ‘seniors’ are the themselves. What do older adults in our there and wait for people.” preferred descriptors. own community think and feel about Rabbi Barbara Aiello ‘Gramps’ to count Dorothea isn’t alone. In a recent Interestingly, even the term ‘senior how they are described and addressed? out his pennies. I’m finding another AARP publication, an article titled, citizen’ has fallen out of favor with Michael R., a man in his 70s, says, line.” “Who You Calling ‘Young Lady’?” some. Susan Jacoby, the author of Never “I prefer ‘old person.’ It’s short, sweet As Lisa watched her grandmother’s (February 2, 2018), authors Amanda Say Die: The Myth and Marketing of the and that’s what we are.” Josie C., who smile become a frown, she said to her Duarte and Mike Albo tackle what they New Old Age, takes issue, surprisingly, just turned 70, votes for ‘mature person,’ grandmother, “How disrespectful, call- term ‘ageist language,’ and emphasize with the term ‘senior’ to describe older and advises that how one prefers to be ing that old guy ‘Gramps.’” Dorothea that pejorative and patronizing terms adults. Quoted in a recent article in addressed is related to “a person’s own nodded. “‘Old Guy’ isn’t such a good that describe older adults are harmful, The Atlantic, Jacoby says, “The word view of their place in life.” choice either.” Lisa acquiesced. “Well, hurtful and should not be used. ‘senior’ is one of the most common eu- Carol K., in her 90s, gets straight Grandma, if ‘Gramps’ and ‘Old Guy’ Like what? Gerontology specialists phemisms for old people, and happens to the point. “I have no problem with are wrong, what’s the right way to talk and professionals who work with older to be the one I hate the most.” Jacoby being referred to as part of ‘the elderly.’ about older people. What’s the right adults explain that terms like ‘over the goes on to say, “Imagine if a newspaper I mean, that’s what we are.” thing to say?” hill,’ ‘feisty,’ ‘Blue-Hairs,’ ‘Gramps’ called young voters ‘juniors’ instead of Frank J. observes that, “When we Lisa’s question is a timely one, es- and even ‘the elderly’ are demeaning. ‘young voters.’” She reminds us that the ‘oldsters’ get together we call each other pecially in our politically correct world And older adults report that when they term ‘senior citizen’ can be inaccurate ‘geezer,’ ‘codger’ and ‘old coot.’ ButAging Jewishly...continued from previous page where the way someone is described are addressed as ‘Sweetie’ or ‘Honey’ in that “not every older resident of the we don’t want younger people calling can lead to upset, hurt feelings or mis- and told that they are ‘adorable’ or U.S. is an American citizen.” us those names. I guess we’re like all understanding. ‘cute,’ they feel as though they are being In that same Atlantic article (Jan- continued on next page

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Now Open for Tours and Walk-ins Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Support Monday – Saturday | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Skilled Nursing | Rehabilitation TheTerracesAtBonitaSprings.com Assisted Living Facility License #12385 | COA: #08075 26455 S. Tamiami Trail | Bonita Springs, FL 34134 L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 15 Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing oldRolling out the (whiskey) barrels By The Wine Whisperer Elderly, oldster or senior – What do older people ight around 2014, a new trend more interesting from there. traditional oak barrels, but then wine- Cooper & Thief Sauvignon in winemaking emerged, and Jeff Kasavan, Cellarmaster at Coo- makers like Kasavan and 1000 Stories Blanc Napa Valley 2016 ($33) – With prefer to be called? Rit’s started to gain a lot of trac- per & Thief in Lodi, California, has winemaker Bob Blue put their wines in a whopping 16.5% alcohol, this is not tion…and attention. Some winemakers over 30 years of experience as a wine- used whiskey barrels for an additional a typical example of the varietal. Va- have begun to age their wines in used maker, and says that “cross-aging” is a two or three months. nilla and smoke, with almond notes Bourbon whiskey barrels. They call it relatively new trend because “Bourbon Blue agrees that richly flavored and a creamy texture. Long finish of “cross-aging.” barrels present a new array of aromas wines are the ones to use for this tech- oak, vanilla and crème brulee. Blended The vener- and richness that you can’t extract from nique. “Big, bold wines are best for with Colombard, Semillon and “other able oak barrel traditional new oak barrel aging.” He the intensity of Bourbon barrel-aging,” whites.” WW 86-87 plays a critical also ages his white Sauvignon Blanc says Blue, “which is why Zinfandel is Cooper & Thief Red Blend Cal- role in the way in used tequila barrels. “Sauvignon our flagship varietal.” He continues, ifornia 2014 ($33) – Almost a Port, wine ages and Blanc is one of my favorite varietals,” “Bourbon barrels are intense. Most with 17% alcohol, this blend of Caber- tastes. There are he says, “so I experimented with how wines can’t tolerate that kind of barrel net, Syrah, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah dozens of ways the barrels could enhance the wine’s intensity, but Zinfandel seems to fit the is all about smoke, vanilla and deep winemakers can flavor experience. The acidity and cit- bill just right.” black fruit. Nothing subtle about it, use oak to fla- rus notes of Sauvignon Blanc are com- He also sees a bright future for and lots more smoke and vanilla on the  Jerry vor and “season” plemented by the subtle heat and toasty wines made this way. “At first, we finish. WW 89 Greenfield wine, but until vanilla flavors imparted by the former thought 1000 Stories would be more Ask the Wine Whisperer now they’ve mainly stored and aged tequila barrels.” appealing to men, but women have be- There are so many shapes and sizes of their wines in new or used French or However, this technique may not come very enthusiastic. And the wine wine glasses. What’s the best kind to American oak barrels. But apparent- work with all wines. The reds that also cuts across various age groups, use? – Peter S., Naples ly, this new trend of putting red wine Kasavan chooses to age in Bourbon which shows that the category really Generally, larger glasses are bet- in used whiskey barrels opens a new barrels need significant tannin struc- has universal appeal.” ter because they allow you to swirl the world of flavors and textures. And this ture and flavor intensity. “For my red Discover the appeal for yourself wine more vigorously to release aro- is no “underground” phenomenon. blend,” he says, “I use predominantly with these new recommendations: mas and flavors. The glass should hold Even major wineries like Mondavi and Merlot and Syrah complemented by 1000 Stories Gold Rush Red Cal- perhaps 20-22 ounces, be thin, with a the Australian Jacob’s Creek are doing Zinfandel, Petit Sirah and Cabernet ifornia 2016 ($20) – Deep rich garnet long stem, and should curve inward at it. Sauvignon. They stand up the best to in the glass with toasty oak and vanil- the top. White wines are also getting the the big bold aromas and flavors im- la aromas. Charred vanilla and smoke Jerry Greenfield is the Wine Whisper- treatment, being aged in barrels that parted by the whiskey barrel aging flavors with blackberry, blueberry and er, a wine author, educator and con- formerly contained tequila or other process.” 15% alcohol. WW 89-90 sultant. He is Creative Director of clear spirits. And the situation gets All cross-aged wines start out in 1000 Stories Zinfandel Cali- Greenfield Media & Marketing, and fornia 2014 ($20) – Contains about an adjunct professor in the wine pro- Aging Jewishly...continued from previous page 19% Petite Sirah, so it’s big, bold and gram at Florida Gulf Coast University. concentrated. Some minerality on the His book, Ask the Wine Whisperer, is the other groups. We say stuff to each Or as Lisa remarked to her grand- nose, fresh black cherry that lingers on available on his website. Read his blog other that we wouldn’t want others to mother after the incident in the checkout the finish. Smoke and vanilla. Aged in at www.winewhisperer.com. say to us.” line, “Sticks and stones can break my old and new Bourbon barrels. WW 90 Larry K., who will be 99 in July, bones, but names can really hurt me,” takes a practical approach. “Doctors, – an admonishment that holds true not nurses and caregivers should ask us only in the schoolyard but at the ‘senior’ how we like to be called and then pro- center, too. Authors Duarte and Albo NEW! Enjoy ceed with caution.” Larry says, “Don’t also key in on an important issue when Southwest Florida s Premier Art Festival go using words you don’t understand. they ask, “Why eliminate hurtful lan- ’ There’s a Yiddish word, ‘altakaker,’ that guage? The answer is simple. Because online VIRTUALLY! is offensive. I won’t define it. Just take it hurts.” PRESENTED BY my advice and don’t say it.” Rabbi Barbara Aiello served the Aviva Authors Duarte and Albo seem to Campus for Senior Life as resident agree with Larry when they emphasize, rabbi for 10 years. She now lives and “Except for a few incredibly insensitive works in Italy where she is rabbi of jerks, most of us are increasingly careful Italy’s first Reconstructionist syna- to avoid using hurtful language toward gogue. Contact her at Rabbi@Rabbi people different from us.” Barbara.com. January 29 – February 25 Enjoy all the festival fun, We may be keeping our distance, art & activities you love online! Visit Artists’ Booths but we are in this together. – Talk to them via Zoom – Buy art from them through our SECURE WEBSITE Decorating with Art Entertainment | Culinary Arts Artist Demos | Studio Tours Stay Calm. Roundtable Chats High School Art Projects & Art Show Chalk Art Painting For Virtual ArtFest, go to Stay Connected. 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to take care of yourself and others. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 16 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD New FIDF CEO: The more you know us, the more you’ll want to join us By Alan Rosenbaum spent the past 30 years trying offices in the United States and Panama, Scholarship program is tailored for program, allows soldiers who were “ to build American Jewry,” says with headquarters in New York City. It former combat soldiers who come from previously unable to attain 12 years of I Steven Weil. “Now, I have the is the single organization authorized to lower socio-economic backgrounds and education or a high school degree to opportunity to have a small – but sig- represent the IDF soldiers across the enables them to achieve their dreams pursue an educational equivalent while nificant – hand in building the future United States and Panama, as designated of higher education. The program also performing military service. FIDF seeks of Israeli society.” Weil, the newly by Lt. Gen. (Res.) Gadi Eizenkot, IDF provides funds to cover soldiers’ living to increase opportunities for these sol- appointed National Director and Chief Chief of the General Staff, in March expenses while they study and gives diers to reenter civilian life on an even Executive Officer of Friends of the Israel 2017, and again by Lt. Gen. Aviv Ko- them the unique benefit of direct contact footing with their peers. Defense Forces (FIDF), enjoyed a long chavi, IDF Chief of the General Staff, in with their FIDF sponsors. A second initiative, entitled “Proj- and distinguished career as a prominent February 2019. Today, Since the pro- ect Overcome,” assists young Israeli educator, pulpit rabbi and, most recent- the organization assists gram’s founding in citizens who struggle with emotional ly, Senior Managing Director of the more than 118,000 sol- 2002, FIDF has spon- problems, addictions, low self-esteem Orthodox Union before joining FIDF diers each year. sored students from or lack of ambition, often exacerbated in September. Weil wants to 66 countries of origin, by poverty and criminal backgrounds. Articulate, polite and self-effacing, broaden the appeal of studying at over 80 ac- These youths were traditionally not con- Weil sees similarities between the out- FIDF beyond the old- ademic institutions in sidered fit for service in the IDF and had reach that he performed in his previous er generation that re- Israel. With the success few opportunities to gain successful em- positions and the goals that he has set members the Six-Day of the program, some ployment. Through Project Overcome, for himself in his new post at FIDF. War of 1967 and the 16,130 students and at-risk youth can reform their behavior “At the Orthodox Union,” he notes, “a 1973 Yom Kippur War, alumni are represented and gain tools and life skills relevant for great deal of what we did was engaging when Israel’s very ex- in nearly every field, army service and as professionals in the American Jewry, and the majority of istence was at stake, and dozens are now civilian market. those under the age of 50 are unaffil- to a new generation of donors themselves. The program, which takes place iated Jews. One of my goals now for American Jews, who “We’ve provided during the course of their IDF service, FIDF going forward is to expand our take the existence of a Steven Weil the opportunity for offers them a clean slate, a chance to core base and connect all of American State of Israel as a given. “Most Amer- them, through the army, to transcend discover exciting new capabilities in Jewry – no matter their background, ican Jews are coming from a mindset of the cycle of poverty,” says Weil. “And, themselves, and a path to change their no matter where they are coming from social justice and don’t necessarily have we’ve provided for them the opportunity future. “This program gives them the politically, religiously or otherwise – to a positive affiliation with the military in post-service, not only to give to Israel opportunity to have self-worth and the future of Israel through the lives of general,” he notes. The activities that and the Jewish people three years of self-dignity,” says Weil. He adds that the soldiers.” FIDF supports within the IDF, says military service, but to give to Israel and many soldiers who have been in the FIDF is a non-political, non-mil- Weil, will resonate with the younger the Jewish people for the next 60 years program become officers and mentors itary organization whose goal is to generation as these programs are more of their lives.” to other soldiers who come from dis- provide sustainable solutions to all of closely aligned with social justice than Weil cites two other educational advantaged backgrounds. Israel’s soldiers through social, edu- military activities. programs that FIDF sponsors as exam- FIDF assists soldiers in numerous cational, financial, cultural and recre- Weil points with pride to a number ples of the groundbreaking work that ways – through education, financial ational programs and facilities. It was of FIDF programs that are helping to the organization is doing on behalf of assistance and preparation for life after established in 1981 by a group of Holo- transform IDF soldiers in a positive IDF soldiers and their communities. the army. Weil lights up when speaking caust survivors and operates 25 regional and meaningful way. FIDF’s IMPACT One, called the “Formal Education” continued on next page

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FIDF CEO..continued from page 16 New FIDF CEO: The more you know us, about FIDF’s “Dignity” program that Steven Weil is confident that his provides soldiers in-need and their message of providing transformative BRIEFS families with essential items such as opportunities to build the future of Israel the more you’ll want to join us Mifold has developed a compact, furniture, electrical appliances and other and the Jewish people will resonate with ISRAEL’S POPULATION AT portable child’s booster seat with a living necessities. For those with severe Jews throughout the United States. In END OF 2020: 9.3 MILLION program, allows soldiers who were design that keeps the seatbelt off the financial difficulties, FIDF provides the coming months, he plans to expand Israel’s population stands at nearly previously unable to attain 12 years of child’s stomach and neck for better monetary assistance through special the FIDF message to philanthropic 9.3 million, including 6,870,000 Jews education or a high school degree to safety and comfort. grants and vouchers. He explains that foundations that support Israel, extend (73.9%), 1,956,000 Arabs (21.1%) and pursue an educational equivalent while City Transformer offers a folding Dignity is much more than just a name. the support of existing donors to the next 465,000 people (5%) belonging to oth- performing military service. FIDF seeks electric two-seater car that can reach Soldiers with financial hardships are generation, and make sure that FIDF’s er ethnic groups, the Central Bureau of to increase opportunities for these sol- up to 55 miles per hour. Four of them provided with assistance, discreetly and work becomes a major part of the con- Statistics reported recently. diers to reenter civilian life on an even fit into a standard parking spot. privately. “Until now,” says Weil, “we versation of American Jewry. The IDF, In 2020, 176,000 babies were born footing with their peers. DouxMatok’s Incredo Sugar al- have taken care of 8,000 soldiers every says Weil, is the great unifier of Jews in Israel, 73.8% to Jewish families, A second initiative, entitled “Proj- lows bakers and food companies to year who are under the poverty line. from five continents, 70 countries and 23.4% to Arab families and 2.8% to ect Overcome,” assists young Israeli reduce sugar content by 30-50% while This year, the army has asked us to sup- multiple cultures and perspectives. “We other groups. (Tobias Siegal, Jerusa- citizens who struggle with emotional retaining the same level of sweetness. port more than 29,000 soldiers in-need. are funding that opportunity to give the lem Post) problems, addictions, low self-esteem The sugar grains are engineered so It’s a huge responsibility. Soldiers are IDF the role of the great unifier within or lack of ambition, often exacerbated that most of the flavor reaches the taste provided with gift card vouchers for use world Jewry.” STREAM ISRAELI SHOWS by poverty and criminal backgrounds. buds. (Shoshanna Solomon, Times of at supermarkets. When they return home Weil’s background makes him IZZY is a TV streaming platform that These youths were traditionally not con- exclusively features Israeli movies, Israel) sidered fit for service in the IDF and hadfrom the army for weekends, not only uniquely qualified to be a unifier of are they not a burden on their family, support for Israel. His family was in the shows and documentaries you can few opportunities to gain successful em- watch on your time, as much as you IDF SEES RECORD ployment. Through Project Overcome,but they end up being able to buy food cattle business in Germany for hundreds NUMBER OF ISRAELI and supplies for the family.” of years, and his parents escaped from want, from anywhere in the world! En- at-risk youth can reform their behavior joy more than 200 hours of remarkable ARAB VOLUNTEERS and gain tools and life skills relevant for FIDF’s “Witnesses in Uniform” the Nazis to the United States in 1939. program, through visits to the sites They sought to remain in the livestock Israeli entertainment. For more infor- More than 1,000 Israeli Arabs volun- army service and as professionals in the mation, visit helloisrael.tv. teered to serve in the IDF in the past civilian market. of death camps in Poland with dele- business and purchased a farm 50 miles gations comprised of career officers from Buffalo, New York, where his year, more than twice that of previous The program, which takes place SIX ISRAELI CREATIONS years, the military’s Manpower Di- during the course of their IDF service,and commanders, reserve soldiers, father raised crops and bought and sold family members of fallen soldiers and livestock. Weil’s father, while visiting AMONG TIME’S 100 BEST rectorate said recently. They include offers them a clean slate, a chance to INVENTIONS FOR 2020 Muslims from Taibe, Qalansuwa and discover exciting new capabilities in Holocaust survivors, offers soldiers his customers – most of whom could a firsthand look at the horrors of the quote Isaiah by heart – would convince Six Israeli tech firms have been named eastern Jerusalem, Bedouin from the themselves, and a path to change their in TIME magazine’s annual list of 100 Galilee and Christian Arabs from the future. “This program gives them theHolocaust, providing them with a deeper them to invest in Israel bonds, offering understanding of their Jewish identity them an opportunity to play a role in Best Inventions. north. Four hundred and fifty new sol- opportunity to have self-worth and Beewise offers a smart home for diers enlisted as scouts and fighters in self-dignity,” says Weil. He adds that and purpose. building the dream of Zionism. “I was a FIDF also assists wounded soldiers little kid sitting in the truck,” he recalls. bees, the Beehome, that helps bees the Bedouin patrol unit, while dozens many soldiers who have been in the thrive at a time when 40% die every more have joined infantry brigades and program become officers and mentorsthrough various platforms, and supports “We would deliver the Israel bonds, widows, orphans and other family mem- and he connected all these people to year as a result of disease, pesticides others are serving in the Border Police. to other soldiers who come from dis- and climate change. It uses precision Four thousand possible volunteers advantaged backgrounds. bers of fallen IDF soldiers with camps Israel. It made a huge impact on me in the U.S., retreats in Israel and major growing up.” robotics, computer vision and artificial expressed their interest online in join- FIDF assists soldiers in numerous intelligence (AI). ing the IDF this year. Seven hundred ways – through education, financiallife-cycle celebrations. Just as decades ago, Weil’s father FIDF has centered many of its ac- encouraged and promoted support for TrialJectory’s software uses AI to were from Arab countries such as Leb- assistance and preparation for life after read through thousands of clinical tri- anon and Syria and had to be declined the army. Weil lights up when speakingtivities around the growing population the fledgling country of Israel, Steven of Lone Soldiers, with about 3,500 of Weil relishes the opportunity, as the als and extract information about pa- due to security considerations. “We them coming from 70 countries. FIDF new head of FIDF, to create solutions tients for researchers. could not believe the demand,” the IDF provides them with housing, social that will transform Israeli society and Augmedics’ xvision headset uses said. This year also saw a new willing- gatherings, financial assistance, fun the future of the Jewish people, one augmented reality to turn a patient’s ness to enlist by Druze in the Golan days, 24/7 call center and flights home soldier at a time. CT scan into a 3-D image to help guide Heights. (Yoav Zitun, Ynet News) Proud To Support L’Chayim and the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties to visit their families. spinal surgeons. continued on page 21

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February 7 - February 28, 2021

When a world-famous conductor Sarah and Daniel are Jewish and are tries to create an Israeli- to be deported out of the country. Palestinian orchestra, it takes Hiding in the basement of Otto and all his skill and resources to Gerda's family, they are discovered, overcome the discord and get and the parents are arrested. Otto and them to play in harmony. Gerda decide to help their new friends. The goal is to get to Sweden. Inspired by Actual Events Life and death are on the line for their Drama escape. 1 hour 46 minutes Drama Germany 1 hour 30 minutes Norway Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Opening Day Tuesday, February 9 Sara & Brian Krivisky & Andi & Bill Horowitz Sunday, February 7 Radiology Regional

The often forgotten story of Set against the enchanting back- the coalition and friendship drop of 1960's Brooklyn, Extra between the Jewish and Innings tell the story of a young African-American communities man who is caught between during the Civil Rights pursuing his dream and staying Movement. devoted to his Syrian Jewish family that is afflicted with Documentary mental illness. 1 hour 35 minutes Based on a True Story. USA Drama 1 hour 57 minutes

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When a world-famous conductor Sarah and Daniel are Jewish and are tries to create an Israeli- to be deported out of the country. Palestinian orchestra, it takes Hiding in the basement of Otto and all his skill and resources to Gerda's family, they are discovered, overcome the discord and get and the parents are arrested. Otto and them to play in harmony. Gerda decide to help their new friends. The goal is to get to Sweden. Inspired by Actual Events Life and death are on the line for their Andi & Bill Horowitz Drama escape. 1 hour 46 minutes Drama Sara & Brian Krivisky & Radiology Regional Germany 1 hour 30 minutes Norway Bat Yam Temple of the Islands Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Opening Day Tuesday, February 9 Sara & Brian Krivisky & Andi & Bill Horowitz Sunday, February 7 Radiology Regional Paul & Sylvia Simko

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Sponsors as of 1/8/21. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 20 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD Nine corona-proof ways to tour Israel with a guide, from home From scavenger hunts to interactive tours where you choose the next stop, Israeli guides have cooked up some virtual fun. By Abigail Klein Leichman, israel21c.org e miss you here in Israel. England, Canada, Philadelphia, New “Today we invite the thou- have included “The Secret Lives of And so do all the incredibly York, Seattle, Miami Beach and Detroit. sands of Birthright applicants whose Israel’s Wild Mammals” and “Birds Wknowledgeable Israelis who Choose Your Own Adventure trips were cancelled, as well as past and Birding of the Holyland,” live bird make their living as guides to Israel’s With its free 10-day guided tours of and future Birthright participants, ringing (banding) and tours of bird unique tourist sites, cuisine and culture. Israel on hold, Taglit Birthright Israel their families and loved ones, to observatories in Israel and abroad, in- While hoping for a return of tourists offers “Choose Your Own Adventure,” take part in a virtual tour of Israel cluding the Jerusalem Bird Observatory. – may it be soon! – many of them have a first-of-its-kind interactive online tour using unprecedented technology.” To register for upcoming events found creative ways to bring the land created by Eko – the Israeli media and Online/offline scavenger hunt or to watch past webinars, https:// alive from afar. technology company that teamed up Over the past decade, 34,500 people natureisrael.org/webinars. We review nine fun options be- with Procter & Gamble to make an inter- have participated in one of Tali Tarlow’s Live interactive virtual tours low. For eight more excellent ideas active ad for last January’s Super Bowl. popular ScaVentures, engaging and This tour company is called Amazing on touring Israel from the comfort of The online tour led by Israeli guide educational scavenger hunts in Jerusa- Jerusalem, but the 27 tours you can take your home, visit https://www.israel21c. Navee allows you to shape your itiner- lem, Tel Aviv, Safed, Masada and other from your armchair explore the breadth org/8-ways-to-visit-israel-from-the- ary in real time. For instance, you can locations. of Israel. Among the choices are trips comfort-of-home/. Tarlow and her team geared to Christian tourists, such as “In Tour in a Bag now offer Quarantine the Footsteps of Jesus in the Galilee” “I’ve been guiding for 20 years, and Quest 2020, a variety and “The Hidden Years of John the suddenly I was all dressed up with of team-based virtual Baptist.” no place to go,” Esti Herskowitz tells ScaVentures you can Actual tour guides present these ISRAEL21c. play at home with team- hourlong Zoom tours with the aid of “I love to play and create, and so mates from anywhere, panoramic views, Google Street View, I had to do something to connect my for ages eight to adult. 3D satellite views and maps. There is passion for guiding with the people I Each game includes time for a Q&A. You decide how much guide.” offline challenges each to pay and donate it via PayPal. She and her husband Ben, a graphic choose to “visit” Masada or the Western team must complete and document. Machane Yehuda with Tali designer, invented Esti’s “Roaring & Wall; an Arab bistro or a vegan restau- Quarantine Quest choices include In normal times, Chef Tali Friedman Touring” Tour in a Bag. rant; Birthright’s Tel Aviv Center for Israel Trail Dash, Yom Yerushalayim, takes tourists through Jerusalem’s The activity kit, with a Jerusalem Israeli Innovation or a local winery. You Shavuot, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Birth- famed Machane Yehuda Market choos- lions theme, includes supplies such as can surf in a Tel Aviv beach or float in day, Corporate Group, Pesach, Yom ing ingredients to taste and take to her clay, fabric, puzzle pieces and yarn, the Dead Sea. Ha’Atzmaut, Lag Ba’Omer, custom atelier in the heart of the market to cook plus instructions to create a lion mo- In each location, Navee introduces and more. Each game takes about 90 Mediterranean delicacies. saic, mask and flag among other crafts local Israelis to provide a deeper per- minutes and is guided by a ScaVentures Friedman, who also chairs the designed for school-aged children. spective on Israeli culture. The tour professional. Machane Yehuda Merchants’ Associa- It contains a trivia quiz, Israel takes about 10 minutes and you can do Virtual week-long mission tion, says the pandemic has devastated map search, Hebrew and English word it again and again with different choices Jewish National Fund-USA is offering the market, where a typical day would search, a lion story and quiz, a match- each time. virtual Israel missions led live by a staff see thousands of customers, both Israelis ing game, an “unmask the Israeli hero” “Since mid-March we’ve reached of 27 licensed Israeli tour guides. and tourists. game and more. 4.4 million people around the world,” Each “busload” Since the end of July, orders have said Noa Bauer, VP of Global Marketing of participants ex- come in from places including Chile, at Birthright. periences a week of touring biblical and modern Israel, famous tourist sites, off-the-beaten-path sites, JNF projects and hidden gems. Among stops are the Old City of Je- rusalem, the Ayalon Institute (War of In- Ronny S Taschner DDS dependence secret Active Member of the American Academy of Periodontology bullet factory) in Tali Friedman leading her virtual Feast Market Cooking Workshop Rehovot, Rosh HaNikra, Acre (Akko), So she created an 80-minute Video JNF’s Sderot Indoor Recreation Center, on Demand workshop, Feast Market, Jennifer Taschner DDS MMSc Be’er Sheva and Timna Park. that takes the experience online. Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology Your $50 Zoom experience in- Participants pay to watch the work-

cludes one hour of “travel” Monday to shop on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku Thursday followed by a break and then or Chromecast. They get a quick tour a social dinner/cocktail hour. Fridays of the market and then follow Friedman feature a one-hour pre-Shabbat experi- to her kitchen, where she demonstrates ence. Proceeds benefit tourism in Israel. six recipes for an authentic Jerusalem Birding from your bedroom feast. Additional on-location cooking Get a front-row virtual seat to the mag- workshops are planned. nificent show of bird migration in Israel, Virtual Israel Travel Series and other live nature webinars courtesy The America-Israel Friendship League of the Society for the Protection of sponsors monthly livestreamed explora- Nature in Israel. tions through photos, maps and stories So far, more than 20 Zoom events continued on next page

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Olives in Jerusalem. He is the ISRAEL’S IRON DOME el will continue working together in the third-generation of caretakers for the TO BE INTEGRATED WITH war on terror. BRIEFS cemetery, where Jews have been bury- AMERICAN COMMAND According to foreign reports, this ing their dead for 3,000 years. level of cooperation has been evi- continued from page 17 “I have been taking care of the NETWORKS denced many times in the past. For the With the second battery of the Iron VACCINATION MIRACLE graveyard for more than 40 years now. past 15 years, Israel and the U.S. have Dome missile defense system en route I took over the mantle from my father shared operational intelligence. The BRINGS ISRAEL BACK from Israel to the U.S. Army, manufac- and grandfather.” operation indicates the Americans lack TO ITS ROOTS turer Rafael’s Pini Yungman said, “We There are between 60,000 and a sufficient operational infrastructure At the vaccination station at a large Je- have a very detailed plan” to integrate 150,000 tombs from various periods in in Iran while, based on foreign reports, rusalem sports arena, a small army of the batteries into the Army’s new mis- history. Israel has proven over the past decade nurses and medical techs injected one sile defense network (IBCS) “and to Sayyed says, “I know each and ev- to possess impressive operational ca- person after another with utter efficien- conduct a demonstration [at] White ery one of these tombs by name. Fam- pabilities on Iranian soil. cy. We were reminded of the old Israel, Sands” in early 2021. ilies from different parts of the world Iran understands it is again pen- the Israel that knows how to show our Rafael and its U.S. partner, Ray- come here often to look for a family etrated and is in the crosshairs of the national resilience when facing a mor- theon, want to sell the Pentagon a lot member who passed away years ago. Israelis and Americans. As Iran is mull- tal enemy. more than two batteries. And if they tell me the name, I know ing its nuclear options, it must know This is still a country that when Raytheon has already integrated where they are resting in peace.” this comes with zero-tolerance. (Yoav a little kid is crying outside without Iron Dome with Marine Corps com- But Sayyad says none of his chil- Limor, Israel Hayom) an adult in obvious proximity, people mand systems, complete with a live- dren is interested in continuing the scoop him or her up and wait for some- fire test in 2019. family tradition. (Anjana Sankar, ALLIED FORCES SAVED one to show. These past few weeks “This year we will conduct another Khaleej Times - UAE) 400,000 JEWS IN NORTH have evoked once again that Israel that test with the Marines,” Yungman said, sees itself as a family. with a more extensive integration into AFRICA IN WORLD WAR II 3,000-YEAR-OLD GOLD During World War II, 400,000 Jews I was momentarily confused as we American systems. (Sydney J. Freed- BEAD DISCOVERED IN living in Tunisia, Algeria and Moroc- waited the required 15 minutes after the berg, Jr., Breaking Defense) shot, as staff members walked around TEMPLE MOUNT EARTH co came under the German sphere of handing out copies of little booklets: A First Temple-era gold bead was dis- ASSASSINATION OF influence, as French North Africa came games for children. “What on earth are covered in August during sifting of SENIOR AL-QAEDA under control of the new Vichy regime these for?” I wondered. “There isn’t a earth from the Temple Mount by Bin- LEADER IS CLEAR of Field-Marshal Petain, who collabo- kid in sight. We’re all over 60.” And yamin Milt, age 9, from Jerusalem. The rated with Hitler. Jews living in French then it struck me, as people happily bead was in such outstanding condition MESSAGE TO IRAN territory on both sides of the Medi- and gratefully took copies of the book- that it was initially dismissed as mod- The story surrounding the assassination terranean were identified, ostracized, let – and then asked for another copy or ern. But Temple Mount Sifting Proj- of senior al-Qaeda leader Abu Moham- discriminated against and deprived of two. The booklets weren’t for us – they ect co-director Prof. Gabriel Barkay med al-Masri was intentionally leaked. their civil rights and property as the were for our grandchildren. took a closer look and dated the bead The report is replete with accurate de- machinery to implement the “Final There are still moments here when to the First Temple period, based on tails. Whoever relayed the information Solution” was set for them. we recognize that this is not a country almost-identical silver beads manu- wanted to send a message to al-Qaeda, On November 8, 1942, U.S. and like any other. It is a country that was factured using the same “granulation” which lost yet another senior leader. British forces in Operation Torch land- founded to give sanctuary to a partic- technique, which Barkay had excavat- It was also meant for Iran, which was ed on the beaches of North Africa and ular people that desperately needed it, ed in Jerusalem in the 1970s. exposed as harboring al-Masri. And it fought against Vichy French forces. one that has weathered more in seven The handmade bead is fashioned was meant for any other extremist ac- U.S. Gen. Eisenhower wrote in his tor in the region, that the U.S. and Isra- decades than most countries do in cen- from four layers, each made of tiny continued on page 24 turies, and that has produced a sort of gold balls that adhere to each other. familial resilience that can’t be repli- To produce it required the ability to cated anywhere else. (Daniel Gordis, melt the metal at high temperatures, Bloomberg) and a high level of skill from the artisan. THE ARAB CARETAKER In the past 15 years, through the OF THE LARGEST JEWISH help of some 200,000 paying volun- CEMETERY teers, the sifting project has recovered over 500,000 artifacts, including 5,000 Lights! Ibrahim Sayyed, 59, is the Muslim caretaker of the world’s largest Jewish coins. (Amanda Borschel-Dan, Times cemetery located atop the Mount of of Israel)

Nine corona-proof ways to tour Israel...continued from page 20 Camera! presented by tour guide Reuven Solo- Yudin’s series of five-minute video mon. Since April, seven regions have tours created since the start of the pan- been explored in hour-long segments: demic include, among others, Masada, LOVE! Haifa and Nazareth, the Galilee, Akko, Mount of Olives, Jerusalem’s Jaffa Gate, Masada, Jerusalem, Caesarea and Tel Via Dolorosa, David’s Citadel and a At Norman Love Confections, Aviv-Jaffa. Registration is free; dona- rooftop tour of Jerusalem’s Old City. award-winning chocolate tions welcome. Tour guide/educator Uri Feinberg Video voyages also posted some five-minute Israel is the Some tour guides have put their knowl- tours on YouTube, including one that star of the show! edge and experience into videos explor- brings you to Katzrin in the Golan ing different parts of Israel. Heights, a bit off the beaten track. “Experience Israel with David Husband-and-wife tour guides Gadi Hyman” features YouTube video tours and Amy Ben-Dov created a Virtual such as Montfort Castle, Ramon Cra- Israel menu of customizable lectures ter, Red Sea swimming, Red Canyon and tours via Zoom (www.bendovisrael. hike, Negev stargazing, Zippori, Acre, com/virtualisrael). Selections include Jerusalem’s Old City, Zichron Ya’akov, “Israeli Culture through Poetry and Nazareth, Yodfat, Caesarea, Safed, Tel Song,” “Judaism and Christianity: In-

Shimron and Nahariya. One option is tersecting Histories” and “The Jewish Artisan Chocolate | Gourmet Gifts | Desserts & Pastries | Coffees & Teas | Gelato and More! continued on next page“Bible as a tour book,” and another Superhero Justice League.” explores an underground cave church. Abigail Klein Leichman is a writer and

Joe Yudin of Touring Israel has done associate editor at ISRAEL21c. Prior to VISIT US ONLINE FOR LOCATIONS & HOURS about 30 video podcasts with personali- moving to Israel in 2007, she was a spe- www.NormanLoveConfections.com ties from Israel’s tourism industry such cialty writer and copy editor at a major as the manager of Tel Aviv’s storied daily newspaper in New Jersey and has FORT MYERS MCGREGOR WHOLE FOODS MIROMAR OUTLETS NAPLES SARASOTA Norman Hotel, Inbal Baum of Delicious freelanced for a variety of newspapers Israel and TLVStyle’s Galit Reismann. and periodicals since 1984. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 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. High time to stop treating Israel differently By David Harris, CEO of American Jewish Committee (AJC), December 28, 2020 he recent spate of annual an- cited in the most widely read book in ugee populations, except for the Pales- liberal democracy in the Middle East is ti-Israel resolutions at the UN is the world, the Bible; that it was reborn tinians. The other, the United Nations treated in this blatantly biased manner Ta telling reminder that Israel is based on the recommendations of both Relief and Works Agency for Palestine because that’s the way it works – the treated according to a totally different the League of Nations and UN; and that (UNRWA), handles only the Palestin- bad guys circle the wagons to protect standard than all other countries in the it has been a UN member since 1949, ians. one another and, at the same time, gang international system. there’s a relentless chorus denying But the difference goes beyond the up on Israel, creating an automatic ma- Of course, Israel deserves attention Israel’s very political legitimacy. anomaly of two structures, two bureau- jority against it. and scrutiny, as does every other na- No one would dare assail the right cracies and two budgets. In fact, they Seventh, Israel is the only coun- tion. But it also merits equal treatment to exist of many other countries whose have two strikingly different mandates. try condemned by name at the World – nothing more, nothing less. basis for statehood is infinitely more UNHCR seeks to resettle refugees; Health Organization as a “violator” of First, Israel is the only state whose questionable than Israel’s, such as UNRWA does not. When, in 1951, health rights. capital city, Jerusalem, with which the those that were created by brute force, John Blanford, UNRWA’s then-direc- This canard happens despite the Jewish people have been umbilically occupation or imperialist mapmakers. tor, proposed resettling up to 250,000 fact that Israel has achieved one of the linked for more than 3,000 years, is not Just look around at how many nations refugees in nearby Arab countries, world’s highest life expectancy rates recognized by almost all other coun- fit those categories – including, by the those countries reacted with rage and for all its citizens, Jewish and non-Jew- tries, with the notable exception of the way, quite a few Arab countries. Why, refused, leading to his departure. The ish alike; is among the very first med- United States and a handful of others. then, is it open hunting season only on message got through. No UN official ical responders to humanitarian crises Imagine the absurdity of this. For- Israel? Could it possibly have anything since has pushed for resettlement. wherever they may occur; and is daily eign diplomats live in Tel Aviv while to do with the fact that it’s the one Jew- Moreover, the UNRWA and UN- advancing the frontiers of medicine conducting virtually all their business ish-majority country in the world? HCR definitions of a refugee differ for everyone, including in response to in Jerusalem, an hour’s drive away, Third, Israel is the only UN mem- markedly. Whereas the UNHCR ser- Covid-19, something that can’t be said where the prime minister’s office, the ber state that’s been targeted for anni- vices only those who’ve actually fled for too many other nations. Knesset (Parliament), the Supreme hilation by another UN member state. their homelands, the UNRWA defini- Eighth, Israel is the only country Court and the Ministry of Foreign Think about it. The leadership of tion covers “the descendants of per- that’s the continuous target of three Affairs are all located. Iran, together with Iran-funded proxies sons who became refugees in 1948,” standing UN bodies established, staffed In fact, look at listings of world in Lebanon and Gaza, has repeatedly without any generational limitations. and funded solely for the purpose of cities, including places of birth in pass- called for wiping Israel off the map. Is Fifth, Israel is the only country advancing the Palestinian cause and ports (with the exception again of the there any other country facing such a that has won all its major wars for sur- bashing Israel – the Committee on U.S.), and you’ll see something strik- stated goal of genocidal destruction? vival and self-defense, yet is confron- the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights ing – Paris, France; Tokyo, Japan; Pre- Meanwhile, a majority of UN member ted by some defeated adversaries who of the Palestinian People; the Special toria, South Africa; Lima, Peru; and states continues to conduct business as have insisted on dictating the terms of Committee to Investigate Israeli Prac- Jerusalem, sans country – orphaned, if usual with Tehran, as if this threat to peace. tices Affecting the Human Rights of you will. another nation was either welcome or In doing so, ironically, they’ve the Palestinian People; and the Divi- Second, Israel is the only UN somehow irrelevant. found support from a number of coun- sion for Palestinian Rights in the UN’s member state whose very right to exist Fourth, the UN has two agencies tries which, victorious in war them- Department of Political Affairs. is under constant challenge. dealing with refugees. selves, demanded – and, yes, got – border Ninth, Israel is the only country Notwithstanding the fact that Is- One, the United Nations High adjustments. A quick glance at, say, annually targeted by double-digit UN rael embodies an age-old connection Commissioner for Refugees (UN- earlier maps of Europe and today’s, General Assembly resolutions and with the Jewish people, as repeatedly HCR), focuses on all the world’s ref- amply illustrates the point. countless measures in other UN bod- Sixth, Israel is the only country in ies, such as the Human Rights Council. the world with a separate – and perma- Indeed, astonishingly, every year What do you think? nent – agenda item, #7, at the Gene- Israel is pretty much on the receiving va-based UN Human Rights Council. end of more such efforts than the oth- No other member state, including er 192 UN member states combined. L’CHAYIM wants to know! serial human-rights violators like Iran, No one can seriously argue that this is Send your letters & comments to [email protected] North Korea, Syria and Venezuela, remotely warranted, but it’s a reality Letters Policy gets its own agenda item. Only the sole continued on next page Letters must include the writer’s full name, full address and daytime phone. Letters should be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length and/ or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of L’CHAYIM nor its advertisers. We cannot acknowledge or publish every letter received. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 COMMENTARY 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.

David Harris...continued from previous page High time to stop treating Israel differently because in every UN body except the groups that don’t involve an anti-Israel Connecting the dots Security Council, where each of the angle? arl Jung once said that “in all Traditionally in Judaism, we give liberal democracy in the Middle East isfive permanent members has a veto, Has anyone seen movements de- chaos there is cosmos, in all thanks by saying a ‘b’racha,’ a bless- treated in this blatantly biased mannerit’s all about majority voting. manding entertainers pull out from disorder a secret order.” This ing. But which blessing should we When close to two-thirds of the scheduled performances in any country C because that’s the way it works – the past year of 2020 seemed to carry a say? Vaccines were unknown until bad guys circle the wagons to protect world’s nations belong to the Non- except Israel? lot more chaos than cosmos! I am sure very recent times, so there really isn’t one another and, at the same time, gangAligned Movement, and when mem- Turkey, to take just one example, there was some order that much to go on. Lucky for us, the up on Israel, creating an automatic ma-ber states in recent years elected chairs has brazenly and illegally occupied involved, but it was Codes of Jewish Law have a potential jority against it. from Iran and Venezuela, that just more than one-third of the island na- greatly overshad- answer. If you delve into the Shulchan Seventh, Israel is the only coun-about says it all. tion of Cyprus for 46 years, deployed owed by the chaos Aruch (O.C. 230:4), you will find the try condemned by name at the World And tenth, Israel is the only state an estimated 40,000 Turkish troops we endured. We have following prayer: “May it be Your will, Health Organization as a “violator” oftargeted by the BDS (boycott, divest- there, and transferred countless settlers seen bars, restaurants Hashem, that this procedure should health rights. ment and sanctions) movement. from Anatolia, yet not a peep about and movie theaters cure me, for You are a doctor who This canard happens despite the Has anyone seen any significant Ankara from those who purport to act closed, and travel heals graciously.” Some rabbis would  fact that Israel has achieved one of the campus activity that targets true hu- in the name of “justice” and against Rabbi has become well- also add the following verse after- man rights offenders, including some “occupation.” Michael J. nigh impossible. So- wards: “Blessed is the One who heals world’s highest life expectancy rates Schorin for all its citizens, Jewish and non-Jew-in Israel’s neighborhood, who have Given political realities, tackling cializing with friends the ill.” ish alike; is among the very first med-dropped chemically-laced barrel any of these instances of egregious and neighbors has only been possible If you have already received the ical responders to humanitarian crisesbombs on civilians; taken aim at Chris- double standards and blatant hypocrisy from a distance. Even davening at a Covid-19 vaccine, feel free to say this wherever they may occur; and is dailytians; denied Palestinians full rights; can be a daunting challenge. And, still real (non-Zoom) shul has been put on prayer belatedly. If you haven’t re- advancing the frontiers of medicinepersecuted LGBT communities; and worse, this list is not complete. hold. Wearing masks has become rou- ceived it yet, I hope you will give some for everyone, including in response toused capital punishment, even for mi- The old advertisement proclaimed tine. So where, you might ask, is all thought to saying it before you are in- Covid-19, something that can’t be saidnors, with abandon? that you don’t have to be Jewish to love of the cosmos in this chaos? Where is oculated. And, if you don’t know any- for too many other nations. Would a student government offi- Levy’s Jewish rye bread. the order that used to be and when is it one personally who has struggled with Eighth, Israel is the only countrycial be forced to resign over her sup- Well, surely, you don’t have to be a coming back? the disease, you could even feel free that’s the continuous target of threeport for the existence of any country pro-Israel activist to be troubled by the Now that several Covid-19 vac- to recite the “shehechiyanu” prayer standing UN bodies established, staffedother than Israel, as happened at Uni- grotesquely unjust treatment of Israel. cines have arrived in Southwest Flor- as well, for G-d has kept us alive, sus- and funded solely for the purpose ofversity of Southern California? Would All it takes is a capacity for moral out- ida, I wonder if they are the light in tained us and allowed us to reach this advancing the Palestinian cause andany campus tolerate a student senate rage that things like this are happening the darkness that we couldn’t have miraculous time. May we all be pro- bashing Israel – the Committee onpresident who likens any other coun- in today’s world. perceived six months ago? Who knew, tected from this plague and may we the Exercise of the Inalienable Rightstry’s government to Nazi Germany, as and who was able to believe, that these all be grateful for every step we take of the Palestinian People; the Specialhappened with Israel at Florida State? The AJC West Coast vaccines would be ready, and safe, for toward health. Committee to Investigate Israeli Prac- Have the Democratic Socialists distribution and inoculation so soon? Rabbi Dr. Michael J. Schorin, MAPC, tices Affecting the Human Rightsof of America tried to prevent New York Florida office, located in For these vaccines, and for all of the BCC is a Chaplain in Lee Health’s the Palestinian People; and the Divi-City Council members from traveling Sarasota, can be reached scientists and researchers who devel- Department of Spiritual Services, and sion for Palestinian Rights in the UN’sto any country other than Israel? oped them, we should be grateful and ministers at the Gulf Coast Medical Department of Political Affairs. Has anyone seen any flotillas or at 941.365.4955. give thanks. Center. Ninth, Israel is the only countryflytillas organized by European far-left annually targeted by double-digit UN General Assembly resolutions and countless measures in other UN bod- You’re at a great ies, such as the Human Rights Council. Indeed, astonishingly, every year Israel is pretty much on the receiving place in life. end of more such efforts than the other 192 UN member states combined. It’s called Amavida. No one can seriously argue that this is remotely warranted, but it’s a reality

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Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. When the server is served Interpret your dreams We are mishpacha he command to love the strang- this, but since his doctor had recom- o you think your dreams have let it be good, may God make it good. er is not only deeply ethical but mended it, he proceeded to carry out meaning? In the Talmud, Rav May they decree upon you from heav- Tit also enriches us emotionally. the assignment. As he was waiting in Hisda said that a dream not en seven times that it will be good, and We accept as natural the fact that we the railroad station, he suddenly saw an D interpreted is like a letter not read. In it will be good. Afterwards they recite will help our family and friends, but elderly woman sitting on her suitcase, our Jewish tradition, dreams are meant three verses of transformation [from when we go beyond weeping. The man went over to her and to be explored. They bad to good], three of redemption and that, we derive a asked what her problem was. She re- are not just the messy three of peace.” (Berakhot 55b). unique and satisfy- plied that someone had not shown up remains of our un- Similarly, if someone has a dream ing pleasure from it. to meet her. He found out where she was consciousness or un- and does not know what it means, they To help those near to going, took her in his car and delivered spoken desires, they are instructed to stand before the priests us is only right, but her to her daughter’s home. As soon as are a hint of prophe- when they lift their hands during the to help those who are he left her, he rushed to the corner tele- cy. The ancient rab- Priestly Benediction and say, “Master more distant from us phone, called his physician and said, bis even said dreams of the Universe, I am Yours and my  Rabbi is righteous. When “Doc, it works! I feel better already.”  Rabbi are 1/60th of prophe- dreams are Yours, I dreamed a dream Solomon we help the needy, Whenever we help someone else, Nicole cy. If we do not inter- and I do not know what it is…if the Agin the homeless, those often not necessarily someone near and Luna pret our dreams, we dreams are good, strengthen them and who lack food or shelter, we feel a dear but just a stranger, we find our life might miss the message and the dream reinforce them like the dreams of Jo- sense of inner peace. fulfilled because we have supplied it will not be fulfilled. The status quo will seph. And if the dreams require heal- A successful businessman in New with meaning. To put it in the words of remain the same. It is the interpretation ing, heal them like the [bitter] waters York City was bored. He had all the a philosopher, “To live well we must of a dream that creates its meaning and of Mara by Moses our teacher and money that he needed, and his work have a faith to live by, a self fit to live its realization. like Miriam from her leprosy, and like was no longer challenging. He be- with, and a cause to live for.” The Talmud outlines a list of sym- Hezekiah from his illness, and like the came irritable and acutely depressed. As Israel I. Mattuck said, “Reli- bols, actions and objects that signify [bitter] waters of Jericho by Elisha. His physician, being a very wise and gion should have not only the sacra- the future. For example, sitting in a And just as you transformed the curse practical man, ordered him to go to ment of prayer but also the sacrament small boat in a dream means a good of Balaam the wicked into a blessing, Grand Central Station, sit down, look of social service.” reputation will spread. Olives mean a so transform all of my dreams for me around and find someone who needed Rabbi Solomon Agin serves at Temple business will flourish, and geese signi- for the best.” help. The executive felt foolish doing Shalom in Port Charlotte. fy wisdom (Berakhot 57a). Dreams are ultimately about the But what happens when you have unknown. But our tradition under- a bad dream or one that doesn’t seem stands that they can be powerful and to make sense? How are we supposed can influence us. So Judaism encourag- to interpret those? Here is where the es us to interpret them, to take respon- ultimate optimism of the Jewish spirit sibility for their meaning, and to trans- emerges. Dreams are meant to be inform them into something positive. By terpreted positively. The Talmud gives finding the good, we are ultimately in- instructions for when someone has a spired to act. May we view our dreams bad dream: “The dreamer should bet- as inspiration to create a better life for ter it before three people. Bring three ourselves and create a better world. Thank [people and say to them]: I saw a good Rabbi Nicole Luna serves at Temple Thank dream. And they say: It is good, and Beth El in Fort Myers.

WORLD’S VIEW OF ISRAEL BRIEFS IS SHIFTING YYoouu The implications of Israel’s peace continued from page 21 deals with Arab countries go far beyond the issue of the Palestinians. It’s memoir, Crusade in Europe, “Under- about Israel’s decades-long struggle ground resistance forces staged a coup to shift the diplomatic paradigm that d’etat in Algiers and were able to neu- seeks to undermine Israel’s standing tralize the French XIX Army Corps.... in the world and force it into reckless Of the 377 participants in the coup, 315 compromises. were French Jews.” Having failed to eliminate it On November 9, the Allied land- through terrorism and war, Israel’s en- ings triggered the invasion of Vichy emies have successfully delegitimized Tunisia by Hitler’s forces. An Ein- Israel by taking advantage of post-co- satzkommando unit led by SS com- lonial guilt in the West and the anti- mander Walter Rauff, who was re- semitic tendencies prevalent in Europe. sponsible for the murder of Jews in The U.S. and Europe came to believe Nazi-occupied Eastern Europe using that forcing “the will of the interna- mobile gas vans, also entered Tunis to tional community” on Israel, the condi- implement the “Final Solution” there. tions of which crippled Israel’s ability During its six months of occupation, to defend itself, would end hostilities the Nazi regime created a local Jud- in the region. enrat, forced Jews to wear a yellow Egypt is in partnership with Israel badge, and sent more than 5,000 Jews against three common enemies – the to forced labor camps. In May 1943, Muslim Brotherhood, Iran and Turkey. the Allies liberated Nazi-occupied Tu- Jordan is aware of the dangers of the nisia, liberating the 100,000 Jews there Palestinian national movement and after 260 had died in the forced labor continued on next page camps. (Edith Shaked, Jerusalem Post) For daily news stories related to Israel & the Jewish world, visit the Federation’s website at www.JewishFederationLCC.org. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 FROM THE BIMAH Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 25

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. We are mishpacha Family and community hy is it that before the Torah from Bereishit, from the very begin- gives us any laws and com- ning are far from perfect. Nowhere treasures Wmandments it describes the does our Torah describe any family as am a keeper of old family stuff. I al center, preserving the stories of the blessings and challenges of being part the Biblical Brady Bunch. From Adam have the Shabbat candlesticks my Jewish and other small communities of a family? Adam and Eve, Abraham and Eve, Cain and Abel, Isaac and Ish- I great, great aunt brought to this in the area, and opening the building and Sarah, Isaac and Rebecca – their mael, Jacob and Esau, to Joseph and country, the pocket watch my great to cultural events. Using Crowdfunder lives, like ours, were not simple or his brothers – all are dysfunctional fa- grandfather bought when he arrived in and reaching out to other sources, she straightforward. Children fought and milial relationships. It’s not the excep- America, and the dining room set my began her campaign. On December made up, couples connected and broke tion, it’s the norm. Hashem is telling us grandparents bought 16, an anonymous donor purchased up, there was love, it’s hard to have interpersonal relation- in the 1940s. I have the building on the campaign’s behalf. loyalty and happi- ships, but you can look to the Torah to piles of family pic- The synagogue building in Margate ness as well as lying, learn how to work out your differences. tures from the 1920s, will become a museum to the Jewish deceit and jealou- In every generation, there will be con- ’30s and ’40s. These community and a regional cultural sy. The full range of flict between siblings and tension be- things remind me center. emotions existed and tween extended family members as where I came from While I preserve the items from through those famil- well. and how hard people my family, I have mixed feelings about ial bonds and chal- Our Torah shows us the way. Ja-  Rabbi worked so I could this project and the preservation of old  Rabbi lenges the Jewish cob blessed all of his sons despite their Marc have what I have. Jewish buildings by our community. Lawrence people were born. transgressions. Joseph forgave his Sack They are physical We have limited resources. I wonder Dermer Family is the brothers for leaving him for dead once symbols of how important Jewish tra- if the money would be better spent en- foundation upon which our Torah rests they admitted they were wrong and dition was to my family. (The dining dowing Jewish day schools and camps. and is at the core of who we are as a demonstrated teshuvah. room set was where we all gathered for Putting our communal resources to- Jewish people. G-d’s promise to Abra- Conflict is part of the Jewish way Seder and other holiday meals.) Some- ward increasing the affordability of ham, “your children shall be as numer- of life and we have elevated Jewish fa- time in the future, I will pass these trea- programs for children would strength- ous as stars in the sky,” was not in vain. milial conflict to comedic heights. But sures on to my children. en the Jewish people for the future. A Despite tremendous odds, the power of at some point, the laughter gives way to It was with this same personal in- synagogue in a town where there are love and togetherness prevailed and the something that is much more serious. clination that I was fascinated to read few Jews living? I don’t know. first families of Judaism birthed the 12 And especially over the past year, a story in Forward about the effort to I get encouragement from one tribes of Israel. The Jewish people as a it has felt as though conflict has be- save a 91-year-old synagogue in Mar- thing. A young Jewish musician moved whole are described as “B’nei Yisrael come prevalent in our society in a way gate, England. Margate, a seaside town to Margate, went looking for a syn- – The Children of Israel,” not descen- that is extremely dangerous. We can’t in southeast England, has a dwindling agogue, and felt strongly enough to dants of the land, but of our patriarch solve all the world’s problems, but we Jewish community. There are currently preserve it. If her commitment to the Jacob, the grandson of Abraham. All can begin at home. Our Torah teaches 11 members of the congregation. They Jewish past is matched by her Jew- the children of Israel, all of us, are part that building a strong network around have not held a service since 2017. ish commitment in general, then I am of one connected extended family. us is of major importance. To achieve Recently, a Jewish musician hopeful for our future. Our family relationships teach us that, we need to be open and honest moved to the area and went looking If I travel to England, I’ll look for how to relate to others and how to un- with each other – to practice teshuvah, for the synagogue only to learn that it a cultural center in Margate. Perhaps derstand ourselves. Family is where we admitting our mistakes and forgiving was put up for auction. If sold, the syn- I’ll find ongoing Jewish activity there first experience loss and sadness while others when they are genuinely re- agogue would be torn down for rede- as well. learning about joy and happiness. In morseful. velopment. So, the woman created the Rabbi Marc Sack serves at Temple Hebrew we say “mishpacha,” which By improving our relationships project of purchasing the synagogue Judea in Fort Myers. means a Jewish family or social unit with each other, we can do our small and converting it into a regional cultur- that includes both close and distant rel- part to eliminate conflict from our atives. Simply put, we are all mishpa- world. cha. May 2021 bring us all one step The Jewish Federation Seeks From Creation in the book of Gen- closer to a world filled with compas- The Jewish Federation Seeks esis to the present day, a family, for sion, tolerance, healing, understanding, Volunteers better or worse, is forever. Families are communication, acceptance, peace, with Foreign Language Skills. at the heart of Jewish culture, tradition contentment, serenity, joy, strength, with Foreign Language Skills. and religious practice, but they can good health and love for all who live in also be the source of so much conflict. this beautiful world of G-d’s creation. In our Torah, our matriarchs and Rabbi Lawrence Dermer serves at patriarchs and the families depicted Shalom Life Center in Fort Myers.

Israel, chairman of Israel’s National Council for Research and Develop- BRIEFS ment, said, “Israel was the first country to understand and come to the continued from previous page The Jewish Family Services division of the Jewish Federation has found that conclusion that cyber...required a na- clientsThe Jewish with Family limited Services English division language of theskills Jewish encounter Federation difficulty has found accessing that clients with limited English language skills encounter difficulty accessing knows that its very existence depends tional program. Israel has many more social services otherwise available in our community. social services otherwise available in our community. on Israel’s strength. The Gulf states advanced systems that can be impaired We would like to help break this language barrier. We would like to help break this language barrier. understand the existential threat from than our neighbors. We created a na- If you speak languages besides English, we invite you to serve as an occasion- Iran. tional program for critical infrastruc- alIf youinterpreter, speak languages by phone besidesor in person, English, for weour invite clients, you when to serve they as communicate an occasion- The democratic West no longer ture like electricity and water, as well withal interpreter, various social by phone service or agencies.in person, for our clients, when they communicate with various social service agencies. needs to choose between Israel and the as for safeguarding hospitals and trans- Do you speak Spanish, Russian, French, Arabs. Israel and the core states of the portation.” CDroe oyloeu, Hsapietaiakn ,S pMaannisdha,r inR,u sestica.?n , FPrelenacshe, Arab world are on the same side. (Dr. Inside the directorate in Beersheba, sChreaorele ,y oHuari tgiiafnt ,o fM langduaarigne, weittch.? t h eP nleeadsey isnh aoruer ayroeuar. g ift of language with the needy Dan Schueftan, Israel Hayom) which employs 350 people, the Cyber in our area. Emergency Response Team (CERT) Your name: ______ISRAEL’S NATIONAL handles hundreds of reports about cy- Language(s)Your name: spoken: ______Language(s) spoken: ______CYBER DIRECTORATE berattack attempts daily. Phone: ______Email:Phone: ______The Israel National Cyber Directorate From September 2019 through Email: ______was created to become involved in the September 2020, CERT dealt with Send your response to Federation Board member Robert Thomas [email protected]. WeSend will your contact response you asto Federationneeded. Thank Board you. member Robert Thomas [email protected]. aftermath of cyberattacks. 10,200 incidents. (Joshua Shuman, We will contact you as needed. Thank you. Maj.-Gen. (ret.) Prof. Isaac Ben- Media Line - Jerusalem Post) Please support our advertisers. They help make L’CHAYIM possible. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 26 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties FROM THE BIMAH

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. If they accused you of being Jewish, would there be enough evidence to convict you? hen I addressed the Kristall- visioned an investigator examining our The idea is that there are “Three ultimate resting place would not be nacht commemoration of homes and our lifestyles to determine H’s” of Jewish life, “Head, Heart and in Egypt, but in the land promised to WThe Jewish Federation whether enough about us would con- Hand.” The head stands for intellec- Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. of Sarasota-Manatee in November, vince a jury that we were indeed Jews. tual engagement with Judaism or seri- Moses was an Egyptian prince, but a couple was in the Zoom room who Some of the things the investigator ous Jewish study. The heart represents as tradition has it, his mother Yocheved belonged to the would look for are: Is there Jewish art prayer, worship and liturgy. The hand inculcated in him the Jewish Covenant- first congregation I on the walls? Are there Jewish books stands for social justice initiatives and al values of justice, caring and compas- served in Colum- on the shelves? Is there a connection other acts of kindness to others. sion which emerged when he saw an bia, Maryland. They with the Jewish community through Taking the analogy of a college Egyptian taskmaster beating a Hebrew contacted my wife synagogue, Federation, JCC and/or student, Rabbi Gilman’s thesis is that slave. Later, when he had established Vickie and me, and Jewish charities? a “good Jew” must major in one of the a new life for himself as Chief Shep- the outdoor lunch Looking at our tradition, the great three H’s, and minor in another. If he or herd over his father-in-law’s vast flock, we enjoyed together first century sage Shimon HaTzadik she has some familiarity with or con- Moses could not resist God’s call to re-  Rabbi was the first time we postulated the balanced tripod of Jew- nection to the third, so much the better. turn to Egypt and take up the task of Stephen had seen them since ish living: “Al Shelosha Devarim – I find the Three H model very use- freeing his people from bondage. Fuchs 1984. Upon Three Things the world stands: ful as we navigate our identity as Jews These examples bid us to ask: How As we ate, the woman shared, “I Torah, worship, and deeds of kindness in the secular world. do our Jewish souls call to us? Is it remember very few of the hundreds of and compassion.” (Pirke Avot 1:2) Fortunately, the Torah presents us through the study of our text and tradi- sermons I have heard over the years, Recently, my friend and colleague with excellent role models of highly tions? Is it through regular worship and but I distinctly remember one of yours. Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin shared a modern successful Jews who enjoyed high sta- participation in synagogue life? Or is it You asked, ‘If they accused you of be- iteration of Shimon HaTzadik’s famous tion in the secular world, but who did through social action or acts of kind- ing Jewish, would there be enough ev- teaching that he learned from Rabbi not forsake their Jewish identity. ness to others. If we major in one of idence to convict you?’” Neil Gilman, of blessed memory, re- Joseph and Moses, of course, lived these, minor in another and, hopefully, Flattered by and thankful for the nowned former Professor of Philosophy long before there was organized Jewish have some involvement with the third, memory jog, I remembered that I en- at the Jewish Theological Seminary. learning or worship, but their “Hands” then without question, if they accused – their actions – clearly indicated the us of being Jewish, there would be am- primacy of their connection to the cov- ple evidence to convict us. enant of their ancestors. Rabbi Stephen Lewis Fuchs serves at For all his success in Egypt, Jo- Bat Yam Temple of the Islands on San- seph made his brothers swear that his ibel Island. I value your life ere’s a new word I just made problem. By doing what I can to not get up: vaccilating. It means being sickened by the new virus, God-will- Hunable to decide whether to ing, I won’t be tying up medical per- get a vaccine, in this instance, the one sonnel and facilities desperately need- which confers near complete immunity ed by others. It is the Jewish ethical to Covid-19. principle of not allowing yourself to FINEMARK NATIONAL BANK & TRUST IS PROUD As part of the become a “burden on the community” first generation of (torekh al hatseeboor). TO CONSISTENTLY EARN A 5-STAR RATING kids who were pro- You see, I don’t believe in the tected from the rav- Golden Rule, “Love your neighbor as FROM BAUER FINANCIAL, THE NATION’S ages of polio, on the yourself,” because it is self-centered. * whole, I regard vacci- Why should the way I feel about my- LEADING INDEPENDENT BANK RATING FIRM . nations as one of the self be my guide for how I should feel  Rabbi great achievements of about and treat you? This is where I We attribute our success to delivering unparalleled Bruce medical science. The break with the Jewish ethical tradi- Diamond service and putting our clients fi rst. near eradication of tion, since I value your life immeasur- not only polio, but also smallpox, mea- ably more than I do my own, which is sles and other diseases, are tributes to hardly at all. Traditional Jewish ethics the power of vaccines. teach that, with the exception of three Of course, like all products of hu- explicit situations, if have the power to man ingenuity, some vaccines are more choose between my life and yours in a effective and useful than others, but I given circumstance, I must save myself place “anti-vaxxers” in same basket first. In fact, my truth is that whatever as flat-Earthers, moon-landing deniers worth I see in myself comes complete- and election faux frauders. ly from the way I value yours. I wasn’t I’ve given a lot thought to my own always like this, but I am now. behaviors during this plague and these So that’s why I am getting inocu- have become my driving principle, lated against Covid-19. It’s not to ex- which also applies to my decision to tend my own life for even a minute. It’s take this new vaccine. to make sure I don’t become a burden First, don’t be a spreader. Don’t on others and on the medical resources make anyone else sick by being lax others might need. about safety measures be it through la- By the time you read this, I imag- ziness, indifference or skepticism. Of ine that the initial inoculation disor- course, as an American, I was indoc- ganization, which put Lee County in trinated early on to place my person- the national spotlight as an example al liberty above all else, but as a Jew I of what not to do, has given way to a know it cannot be at the expense of en- more orderly approach and that getting dangering or harming others, a moral the shots has become a lot easier, im principle called “ahimsa” in Southeast yirtseh hashem (God willing). So nu? Fort Myers • Bonita Springs • Charleston • Estero • Naples • Palm Beach • Scottsdale www.fi nemarkbank.com • 239-461-5900 • Member FDIC • Equal Housing Lender Asian tradition. Rabbi Bruce Diamond serves at The Trust and investment services are not FDIC insured, are not guaranteed by the bank and may lose value. Second, do what you can to make Community Free Synagogue in Fort *5-Star Financial Rating issued by Bauer Financial, a leading independent bank rating and research fi rm. Rating is 5 out of 5. things better by not being part of the Myers. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 MARKETPLACE Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 27

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with our children read- TEMPLE JUDEA SCHOOLS ing parts of the Megillah. Earn CAS Credits Fort Myers This will be the third year our students have stepped The Jewish Federation of Lee Temple Judea Religious School up to read from the Megillah with the Tab Scribner, congregation. and Charlotte Counties is Director of Congregational Learning On Sunday, February 28, we will interested in hearing from It’s 2021 and we couldn’t be happier. celebrate Purim with our friends from teenagers in high school who Religious School activities resumed at Temple Beth El with the annual Purim might like to earn CAS credits Temple Judea on January 10 with hy- Carnival. Plans are underway to make though various work in the brid classes. It was good to see the kids children’s activities as germ-free, so- again after a long break, even if some cially distanced and Covid-safe as pos- Jewish community. were only visible from the chin up. sible. For more details about our safety measures, please contact me in the If you are interested, please On Sunday, January 31 we will meet outside to celebrate Tu Bishvat. Temple Judea office at 239.433.0201. send the following information When you don’t see the kids in person Safety is our priority, and good, clean to [email protected]: every week, it is a bit of a surprise to fun is the by-product. Name see how much they have grown. Hope- For more information about Tem- Address fully, our plants grow as well as the ple Judea Religious School, or our reli- children have. gious school programming, contact me Phone # On Thursday, February 25 we will at 239.433.0201 or tjswfledu@gmail. Age celebrate Purim with the congregation com. Grade School Preferred volunteer hours Candle lighting times: (e.g. 2 - 5P.M. Sundays) February 5: 5:56

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Funded by the from hundreds of artists across the globe. For more information Music is available 24/7 with special music blocks SIGN UP TODAY! Music is available 24/7 with special music blocks visit jewishfederationlcc.org Roth Family for Shabbat, Holiday and Bedtime. for Shabbat, Holiday and Bedtime. Enrollment is open to Foundation Jewish families with • Listen to the music online children between the • Listen to the music online More information, ages of six months to • Download the free app on ITunes, Google Play contact Debbie Sanford • is proud to offer the Stevan & Marilyn Simon Family Scholarship. Download the free app on ITunes, Google Play eight years 239.481.4449 ext. 3 or Tune In Radio living in [email protected] or Tune In Radio This scholarship is open to those at least high school age who Lee & Charlotte Counties. demonstrate leadership qualities and will be participating in a 2-week or longer program in Israel.

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homeless veterans by tion Camp. This flag was made from This must be received no later than JEWISH WAR VETERANS playing “Taps” at the cer- inmates’ uniforms and presented to the May 27, 2021. The scholarship will be Victor Paul Tuchman Post 400 emony. commander of the liberating Ameri- awarded by the end of July 2021. (239) 246-3151 It is with great sad- can troops. All the stars on the flag are Our meetings are held monthly, ness that I inform you Jewish stars. Mold has recently ap- on a Sunday morning. At the moment, Eryka Aptaker of the passing of one of our members, peared on the top of the flag. The Post, our meetings are held via Zoom. TheTrue stories of hidden children It’s been a long time since I’ve written Bernie Lurye. Bernie passed Decem- after consulting with The Holocaust next meeting date has not been deter-are fascinating, including those an article for the Victor Paul Tuchman ber 17, 2020. Bernie was a Korean War Museum & Cohen Education Center mined as I write this article. Come joinof several locals Post 400 Jewish War Veterans. The veteran. He served as Post 400 adjutant Ida Margolis year 2020 brought a lot of confusion for quite some time before stepping You have all heard of the “Hidden and dismay. We have not been able to down a few years ago. A shiva was Children of the Holocaust.” The sto- hold an in-person meeting since Febru- held for him via Zoom on December ry of one hidden child, The Diary of ary of last year. May 2021 bring better 20. Our Commander was able to attend Anne Frank, has sold over 30 million times to us all. the funeral in Naples to honor Bernie as copies and has been translated into 70 languages. Millions have seen the play (first produced in 1955) and the film. For many students, this book was their first introduction to the Holocaust. But every hidden child has a story, along with every survivor. It has been documented that as many as 1.5 million children were mur- dered or died at the hands of the Nazis Holocaust Flag during WWII in one of the most ap- in Naples, purchased the needed de- this wonderful and committed group.palling chapters of Holocaust history. humidifier and HEPA filter required to To become a member, or if you have Only 6-11% of Europe’s prewar Jew- stop further decomposition of the flag. questions, please contact Commanderish population of children survived. We are looking into further conserva- Harvey Charter at [email protected] the European Jewish children tion needed to ensure the flag’s surviv- or 239.246.3151. who survived, thousands of children al. This is a piece of history which we The Jewish War Veterans, founded amazingly did so because they were cannot lose. We will keep you posted in 1896, is the oldest continuing vet-hidden. These children, who were usu- on the progress in finding a resolution erans organization in America. We areally in constant fear and danger, were to keep the flag properly preserved. challenged in the pursuit of new mem-often given a new identity, facing con- Our Post is pleased to announce bers to keep our organization alive.stant difficulties. the eighth annual Herb Schwartz Me- With the loss of many of our WWII In some instances, the children morial Scholarship Award. Our Post veterans, we are striving to have mem-were in hiding with Christian families annually gives a $500 scholarship to bers of our younger generation(s) joinor religious institutions where they (top) Bob Ruberto, Sr. Vice Commander; Don Peyton, President of Hearts & Homes for Vets; one deserving high school senior or and show support to the JWV. We havehoped the child could pass as “Ary- Commander Harvey Charter; (bottom) Bernie Lurye going on Honor Flight; Sgt. Bogie student presently attending a college or a Patron membership for non-veterans.an.” Some children were hidden in The Jewish War Veterans contin- a veteran by playing “Taps” and firing university. To qualify, the student must If your family members were veterans,basements or attics and were always in ues to be a loyal servant to the veter- a rifle. Bernie was an outspoken and be Jewish and from the Lee/Charlotte think about honoring their memory by fear of being discovered. Some were ans community. While activities have unique individual who will be missed. community. The scholarship will be joining the JWV Post 400. I joined inleft abandoned, and used their own been limited due to the pandemic, Our Post has been actively helping awarded to a student with good grades honoring the memory of my father, aresourcefulness in order to survive. Commander Harvey Charter attended American Legion Post 38 preserve the and a financial need. The Post commit- Korean War veteran. Best decision I the Lee County Homeless Coalition. Holocaust Flag made by the Jewish tee will pick the scholarship winner. To have ever made. This group has been There, he honored the memory of our inmates of the Nordhausen Concentra- qualify, please send a copy of grades a blessing in my life and some of the and a letter expressing achievements members have become like family to and need to Victor Paul Tuchman Post me. We hope to see you at our future 400 JWV, c/o Harvey Charter, 11024 meetings! Lakeland Cir., Fort Myers, FL 33913. MAKE A TRIBUTE GIFT

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L’CHAYIM is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, committed advertisers and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 ORGANIZATIONS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 31

When the war final- Netherlands. She was six and her sis- The Annual “Our Stories” for 2gs GENERATIONS OF THE SHOAH ly ended, many children ter was four when they were taken to and their guests will have to be on SOUTHWEST FLORIDA who were adopted or in families and hidden. Renee Fritz was Zoom this year. Nevertheless, it will (239) 963-9347 religious institutions, just three when she, her mother and be good to see the 2gs who will join were never told about relatives were hidden in Belgium, but in to share their stories. One positive True stories of hidden children their earlier lives and never learned Renee was taken to a convent where aspect of Zoom is that 2gs can join us are fascinating, including those their true identities. Many families she began her “new life.” Renee Bed- from wherever they are. The theme for of several locals were never able to be reunited, and douk lived in Paris, but in 1940, with the stories this year is “A Hero in Your Ida Margolis some who were reunited often suffered the encouragement of an aunt, her Life,” which relates to the theme for You have all heard of the “Hidden scars from the trauma of war. family went to the free zone. Her aunt our programs this year, “Heroes, Hero- Children of the Holocaust.” The sto- The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Mu- had found a family for her with whom ines and Helpers.” Visit the Holocaust ry of one hidden child, The Diary of seum has an extensive bibliography of she lived for over three years. There is Museum website at hmcec.org to get Anne Frank, has sold over 30 million books about hidden children including much more to these stories of courage the Zoom link. The program will take copies and has been translated into 70 historical works, testimonies, video and struggle, so please be sure to join place on Sunday, February 14 at 2:00 languages. Millions have seen the play and museum web resources (USHMM. us and encourage others, including p.m. For more information, email me (first produced in 1955) and the film. org). Reading and hearing the true older children to watch. at [email protected]. For many students, this book was their stories of Hidden first introduction to the Holocaust. But Children range from every hidden child has a story, along gut-wrenching to fas- with every survivor. cinating to unbeliev- It has been documented that as able. No fiction is many as 1.5 million children were mur- necessary. dered or died at the hands of the Nazis We are fortu- Holocaust Flag during WWII in one of the most ap- nate to have in our palling chapters of Holocaust history. community extraor- Only 6-11% of Europe’s prewar Jew- dinary individuals ish population of children survived. who were Hidden Among the European Jewish children Children of the Ho- who survived, thousands of children locaust who are will- amazingly did so because they were ing to share their sto- hidden. These children, who were usu- ries with us. Three ally in constant fear and danger, were of these individuals Renee Fritz Renee Beddouk Maud Dahme often given a new identity, facing con- will share their amazing stories at a stant difficulties. virtual program on Wednesday, Febru- In some instances, the children ary 24 at 4:00 p.m. All that is necessary were in hiding with Christian families to view this program is to go The Ho- or religious institutions where they locaust Museum & Cohen Education hoped the child could pass as “Ary- Center website at hmcec.org or call an.” Some children were hidden in 239.263.9200. You will get to hear the basements or attics and were always in stories of Maud Dahme, Renee Fritz fear of being discovered. Some were and Renee Beddouk. left abandoned, and used their own Maud Dahme was hidden by

resourcefulness in order to survive. Christian families as a child in the

239.481.4449 x4 or [email protected]

To join and for more information call Debbie Sanford



What is a Women’s Giving Circle?



 Fall 2021

Educational Scholarships  Available  DEADLINE: April 30, 2021



ELIGIBILITY: Scholarship applications are now available  ’ What is a Women s Giving Circle? for Jewish residents of Lee and Charlotte W  Counties, Florida, wishing to pursue  postsecondary education. 

Applicants must be under 30 years of age   and priority will be given to full-time students. Funding is limited and decisions

will be based primarily on financial need.

APPLICATION: For guidelines and application process, To join and for more information call Debbie Sanford PROCESS visit our website at jewishfederationlcc.org To join and for more information call Debbie Sanford 239.481.4449 x4 or [email protected] 239.481.4449 x4 or [email protected] L’CHAYIM is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, Scholarships are made available from designated committed advertisers and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. funds held by the Jewish Community Foundation. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 32 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ORGANIZATIONS

Mt. Scopus, have a mul- turn you get immense pride in know- India, Europe or right here in the USA. HADASSAH tiracial, multi-religious, ing you’ve helped advance medicine. This coming year we hope to re- Collier/Lee Chapter multilingual staff that Pride, in knowing Hadassah is an in- veal some of these miracles through (732) 539-4011 provides care to patients ternational sensation helping others Zoom and webinars. Please stay tuned. of all races, ethnicities throughout the world, be it in Africa, Joyce Toub and religious affiliations. Grateful, that’s what I feel since 2020 It doesn’t matter if you are Muslim, has ended. My children and grand- Christian or Jewish. It doesn’t matter if HAZAK 55+ CHAPTER additional information. children are healthy. They’ve all been you are black, white or brown. Temple Judea’s ac- working remotely, have been resource- Hadassah advances medical know- at Temple Judea tive HAZAK 55+ Chap- ful, and have grown physically, mental- ledge and transcends traditional ways (239) 433-0201 ter is a chartered member ly and emotionally. We all have plenty moving forward. We recently discov- of the United Synagogue of food, shelter, good friends and fami- ered new ways to regenerate bone, us- In December, HAZAK had an enjoy- of Conservative Judaism. HAZAK lies we care about and who care for us. ing carbon rods instead of metal. Car- able time watching the movie The Chapters are for singles or couples. I learned to be thankful for what I have, bon is not only lighter in weight but has Awakening of Motti Wolkenbruch. A Join HAZAK and meet new friends. and what I can give to others. Hadassah the benefit of preserving the visibility Zoom discussion was held after the It’s an organization that enables mem- is that outlet for me. of bone on x-ray. These rods provide movie. In January, we had another bers to meet and socialize with each There are miracles happening all the scaffolding for mere bone frag- movie program, The Resistance Bank- other. Our monthly programs vary in around us. The Covid vaccine was cre- ments to regenerate, slowly growing er, and a Zoom discussion after. nature. ated in record time, and the outreach toward each other to produce a fully For February, we are planning Members of the community are al- that people from every walk of life are fused bone. to once again have a bring-your-own ways welcome to join and attend our doing to assist others is remarkable. Hadassah research is also bringing lunch or snacks social-distanced Lakes programs. Dues are a moderate $10 Medical personnel, food banks, us closer to understanding how to re- Park get together. We hope to also per year. For more information, email delivery people and other essential generate cartilage, potentially creating have another movie program in March. [email protected] or call the Temple workers have been taxed to the utmost. new treatment options for arthritis and See the Federation’s weekly eblast for Judea office at 239.433.0201. We live in our protected environment connective tissue disorders. (Florida really is “Paradise”) and we The need is always there, and are far away from the epicenter of all YOUR help is greatly needed. Ha- Changing you address? Keep this mayhem. The weather enables us dassah, as you know, is always about to go outside, to walk, exercise and education, opening your eyes and soul L’CHAYIM coming to your home. wave to others, whereas our northern to the miseries of others to achieve neighbors cannot. the greatest good going forward. And, Email [email protected]. Hadassah hospitals, Ein Krem and though we ask for donations, in re-

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

Marcia Can Help

Help us meet these pressing needs by contributing to the MARCIA CAN HELP fund. For further information please contact Alan Isaacs at (239) 481-4449 or [email protected]. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 ORGANIZATIONS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 33

India, Europe or right here in the USA. Myers would ultimately ning February 7. Register for ongoing February 28: Judith and Samuel This coming year we hope to re- JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY face the blame for the events at jhsswf.org/swfl-jewish-mas- Friedland, The Power of Two veal some of these miracles through OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA Confederate provisions terclasses to receive your zoom login Dr. Judith and Samuel Friedland Zoom and webinars. Please stay tuned. (239) 566-1771 shortages and be forced credentials and reminders. moved to Naples and found success in into exile. February 7: Stuart Kaye, A their professional careers, Jewish com- A Jewish Valentine? In the Southwest Florida Jewish Mensch For All Reasons munity and beyond. Marina Berkovich Pioneers documentary film, The Labo- Raised on the East Coast of Flor- If you have a suggestion for the additional information. February 14, 1850. Major General Da- das of Fort Myers (2017), Dr. Jerry ida, a very young Jewish professional next Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneer Temple Judea’s ac-vid Emanuel Twiggs, nicknamed “Ben- Laboda covers the fascinating story of moves to Naples in the early 1980s and story, please email [email protected]. tive HAZAK 55+ Chap-gal Tiger” for his fierce temper during Abraham Myers. becomes a leader of its Jewish commu- We thank you for 10 years of your ter is a chartered memberhis offensive actions in the Seminole As part of The Society’s broader nity. unwavering support of our small, of the United Synagogue Wars in Florida, signs an order for the mission of historical preservation, we February 14: The Labodas of all-volunteer, local organization. of Conservative Judaism. HAZAK new fort to be built where Fort Harvie remember and honor the local Jewish Fort Myers Have you joined our mission yet? Chapters are for singles or couples.was destroyed by fire eight years prior. heroes, from the pioneers to the mi- They came to Fort Myers in 1965. Family Membership is $54; Individual Join HAZAK and meet new friends. The General was about to part with grants with important stories and leg- The very first Oral Surgeon of the re- Membership is $36. Mail checks to: It’s an organization that enables mem-his Southern belle daughter Marion, acies that would impact the following gion, whose mother co-started the local The Jewish Historical Society bers to meet and socialize with eachwho unluckily inherited her father’s generations for decades, hopefully cen- Hadassah Chapter, and wife, helping to of Southwest Florida other. Our monthly programs vary indisposition and sharp tongue, and was turies, into the future. The Southwest start the Jewish Federation of Lee and 8805 Tamiami Trail North, nature. soon to wed Colonel Abraham C. My- Florida Jewish Pioneers films inspire Charlotte Counties. Suite # 255, Naples FL 34108 Members of the community are al-ers, the Chief Quartermaster of Flori- and educate. Each broadcast-quality February 21: Elena Rosner, 833.547.7935 (833.JHS.SWFL) ways welcome to join and attend ourda. The fort was renamed in his hon- film was created for The Society from When Destiny Called www.jhsswf.org ~ [email protected] programs. Dues are a moderate $10or. There is no record that Myers ever the eyewitness testimonies it recorded. Holocaust survivor who talked Virtual Museum of SWFL per year. For more information, email visited it. Every building, however, had Recently, we lost Irving Berzon, Marco Island developer into grant- Jewish History http:// [email protected] or call the Templeto be constructed in accordance with one of several nonagenarian Jewish ing her a plot that was designated as jewishhistorysouthwestflorida.org/ Judea office at 239.433.0201. plans he personally approved. The new Pioneers featured in The Society’s film “church” to start up a Jewish temple. fort soon became one of the finest, if series. Integrity of purpose, strength, not the most expensive, in the country. wisdom, and the desire to share the Changing you address? Keep So much government money was spent gains are just a few commonalities en- Send updates and changes on it during the 1850s that the War De- twined in their stories. L’CHAYIM coming to your home. partment opened an investigation. This By popular demand, we are restart- to the Jewish Directory below tangentially Jewish beginning of Fort ing the weekly screenings of the South- Email [email protected]. Myers is not only anecdotally enter- west Florida Jewish Pioneers film to [email protected]. taining, but prophetic, as QM General series on Sundays at 5:00 p.m. begin-

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 Learning Tree Preschool Director: : Jesyca Virnig E-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES Web site: www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com President: Hank Betchen Services: Saturday at 10 a.m. followed by Email: [email protected] a kiddush Phone: 239-433-0018 • Fax: 239-433-3235 Torah study: Wednesday at 8 p.m. Web site: www.templebethel.com COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE Shabbat services: 7:30 p.m. Friday; Torah study REFORM CHABAD LUBAVITCH 9:00 a.m. Saturday; B’nai Mitzah 10:30 a.m. Saturday 10868 Metro Parkway, South Fort Myers OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA Religious & Hebrew School: 9:00 a.m.-12:30 Sunday (The Southwest Florida Masonic Center) ORTHODOX Judaica Gift Gallery P.O. Box 07144, Fort Myers, FL 33919 5620 Winkler Road Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism Rabbi Bruce Diamond Fort Myers, FL 33919 ([email protected]) Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz Coordinator: Natalie Fulton Phone: 239-433-7708 • Fax: 481-9109 TEMPLE BETH SHALOM Phone: 239-466-6671 E-mail: [email protected] REFORM E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.chabadswf.org 702 S.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33990 Web site: www.fortmyerssynagogue.com Services: Friday 5:15 p.m.; Saturday Kabbalah Rabbi Devora Buchen Community Sabbath eve dinner each Friday class 9 a.m.; Shacharit 10 a.m.; Kiddush at noon President: Peter Simenauer at 6:30 p.m. Minyan: Monday & Thursday 7:00 a.m. Phone: 239-772-4555 • Fax: 239-772-4625 Sabbath eve worship every Friday at 7:30 p.m. E-mail: [email protected] Light breakfast and Torah study with the rabbi CHABAD JEWISH CENTER Web site: www.templebethshalomcc.org every Saturday morning from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. OF CAPE CORAL Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday ORTHODOX Religious School: Wednesday 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. TEMPLE JUDEA 1716 Cape Coral Pkwy. W., Cape Coral, FL 33914 Torah study with Rabbi Buchen: Shabbat 10:30 a.m. CONSERVATIVE Rabbi Yossi Labkowski Organizations: Brotherhood, Sisterhood, 14486 A&W Bulb Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 Phone: 239-963-4770 Family Service (1st Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m.) Rabbi Marc Sack E-mail: [email protected] Marcia Can Help E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.chabadcape.com BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS President: Dan Fox Services: Friday Evening 7:30 p.m. REFORM Director of Congregational Learning: Saturday morning 9:30 a.m. followed by MARCIA CAN HELP, a fund of the Jewish Federation Meets at Sanibel Congregational Church Tab Scribner Kiddush luncheon 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island Preschool Director: Joann Goldman Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. Rabbi Stephen L. Fuchs [email protected] Monday-Friday morning 7:00 a.m. and Jewish Family Services, provides for emergency President: Michael Hochschild Phone: 239-433-0201 • Fax: 239-433-3371 JLI Courses: Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 971-561-7888 Weekly Torah Study: Tuesday evening 7:30 p.m. nutritional needs through our Food Pantry, gift card Email: [email protected] Web site: www.tjswfl.org Services: 6:15 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m. Hebrew School: Sunday 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cantor: Murray Simon Jgirls: Tuesday 6:00-7:00 p.m. Web site: www.batyam.org Saturday Minyan: 9:00 a.m. Monday distribution, and crisis grants to prevent utility Religious School: Sun. 9:30 a.m.-noon; Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday (Oct-Apr) COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS 7:00 p.m. Friday (May-Sept) Wed. 4:30-6 p.m. cut-offs, evictions, loss of transportation Early childhood education: • AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee): Adult Education: Jacki Waksman - 954-653-9053 Saturday, 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. (Nov-Apr) Preschool, M-F, ages 18 months-5 years; “Mommy & Me,” 12 months-2 years • AJC (American Jewish Committee): and other essential services without Jewish Current Events: Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Brian Lipton - 941-365-4955 to 12:15 p.m. (Nov-Apr) Affiliated: United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism • Anti-Defamation League: 561-988-2900 which none of us can live. Inspired by the recognition that Write: P.O. Box 84, Sanibel, FL 33957 • B’Nai B’rith International: 941-302-4500 Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism • Chevra Kadisha: these needs must be addressed in our SHALOM LIFE CENTER Gene Sipe - 239-841-4615 TEMPLE SHALOM CHARLOTTE TRANS DENOMINATIONAL • Generations of the Shoah SWFL: 963-9347 19691 Cypress View Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33967 • Hadassah - Collier/Lee Chapter: community, and as a tribute to Marcia Cohen, HARBOR AND THE GULF ISLANDS Diane Schwartz - 732-539-4011 REFORM Rabbi Lawrence Dermer Phone: 239-218-3433 • Hadassah - Sharon Chapter (Charlotte County): 23190 Utica Ave., P.O. Box 494675 E-mail: [email protected] Odette Port - 941-505-1409 a long-time resident of Sanibel and social activist, her Port Charlotte, FL 33949-4675 • Hazak 55+ Chapter: Web site: www.shalomlifecenter.org Rabbi Solomon Agin Joyce Rosinger - 239-437-1566 Shabbat Evening Services 7:30 p.m. (Oct-Apr) husband Jack established the MARCIA CAN HELP fund in 2017. President: Judith Migdol • Israel Bonds: Regional Headquarters: 800-622-8017 7:00 p.m. (May-Sept) Phone: 941-625-2116 • Jewish Community Services: 239-481-4449 Saturday Torah & Kabbalah Study 10:00 a.m. E-mail: [email protected] • Jewish National Fund: Web site: templeshalomfl.com Joshua Mellits, Director, Western Florida Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS/ 941-462-1330 ext. 865 Religious school: Sunday 10 a.m. ESTERO Memorial Tree Planting in Israel - 1-800-542-8733 Beginning Hebrew: Tuesday 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. • Jewish War Veterans: ORTHODOX Post 400: Commander Harvey Charter - 239-246-3151 Marcia Can Help Advanced Hebrew: Thursday 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. 24850 Old 41 Road, Suite 20 (in the Bernwood • Mikvah Bashka of Southwest Florida: Organizations: Sisterhood Centre) Bonita Springs, FL 34135-7024 Nechamie Minkowicz - 239-822-2784 Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism Rabbi Mendy Greenberg Phone: 239-949-6900 Help us meet these pressing needs by contributing to the MARCIA CAN HELP fund. Web site: www.JewishBonita.com Services: Saturday at 10 a.m., followed by For further information please contact Alan Isaacs at (239) 481-4449 or [email protected]. a Kiddush

L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 34 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties TEMPLE NEWS

Polly Talbott, Na- www.fortmyerssynagogue.com. C.F.S. has used this time at home COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE talie Fulton’s machtaini- Each week, Sabbath Eve worship for intensive weekly at-home Adult Fort Myers sta, also passed away in begins at 7:00 p.m. led by Rabbi Dia- Education. During February, the Book (239) 466-6671 December. She was the mond with liturgists Rich McConville of Daniel will be studied. Classes are mother of Richard Tal- and Traci Pavel. Toward the end of the at 7:00 p.m. each Tuesday for an hour. www.fortmyerssynagogue.com bott, Natalie’s daughter worship, Zoom mics are opened to all For weekly reading assignments, email Sue’s husband. with names to be shared at the recita- [email protected]. Our congregation mourns the Decem- We are saddened by the early July tion of the Qaddish. Rabbi Diamond continues to teach ber passing of long-time C.F.S. par- passing of Jerry Arzi, born on a kibbutz At 24 years, Rabbi Diamond’s prayerbook Hebrew reading skills on- ticipant Bernie Lurye. A nationally in mandatory Palestine, long-time Fort immensely popular 9:30 a.m. Sabbath line to community young people at no recognized labor leader and passion- Myers resident and businessman, and morning Torah Study is our area’s lon- charge. Email [email protected] to ate advocate for working people, Ber- committed supporter of Israel, where gest running Jewish Adult Education make arrangements for your children nie was truly one of a kind and a dear he will be interred. program. Selection of each week’s to learn with him. friend to Rabbi and Mrs. Diamond. The Community Free Synagogue Torah sedra are examined in-depth, Stay current with C.F.S. events Art Funk was taken from us in No- will continue to use Zoom for its wor- and the lively give-and-take make this and donate by visiting www.fortmyers vember. A proud veteran collector of ship and educational programs until 90-minute class absorbing and fly by synagogue.com. The synagogue is an military memorabilia, and a fine man, the pandemic threat has substantially too quickly. A prayer for healing and open Jewish community resource with he and Barbara have been C.F.S. regu- diminished. For easy Zoom logon in- the Qaddish are recited at the conclu- no membership requirements, dues or lars for many years. structions, visit the C.F.S. website at sion of each study session. other charges.

Anielewicz. Please join sure to virtually attend the next Quar- Bank, as well as mailed to TBE. TEMPLE BETH EL us for this month’s lec- antine Bingo on Sunday, February 28 Our youth are excited to partake in Fort Myers tures every Monday at 7:00 p.m. The prices are $5 for two the Fort Myers chapter of BBYO, Or (239) 433-0018 from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. playing cards and $10 for five playing Shemesh. The Or Shemesh chapter has from February 1 through cards. Register on templebethel.com. just had its election and is excited to www.templebethel.com March 1. The lectures are For additional information, email tbe. plan their calendar for the upcoming free, and the TBE office [email protected]. month. Email President Jalen Good- While the pandemic has made most will announce the Zoom ID informa- On Sunday, January 31, our mem- man for details at cg03804@gmail. TEMPLE BETH SHALOM days seem longer, Temple Beth El is tion as we get closer to the dates. bers will attend the Fundraising Com- com or direct message the chapter on Cape Coral most certainly not slowing down this TBE’s Sisterhood has not slowed mittee’s “A Jewish Sunday in the Big Instagram at orshemeshbbyo. (239) 772-4555 month! Join our new discussion group, down either. Sisterhood girls’ night Apple.” Participants will pick up their TBE’s brand new Media and Mar- Handling Covid-19 With Jewish Wis- Paid-Up Event with Christine Sherlock gift boxes from the temple containing keting Committee is working to bring www.templebethshalomcc.org dom, led by Paul Kling and Roberto of Image Matters was incredible. In ad- bagels, cream cheese and a surprise ease of access and widespread knowl- Luna every Sunday at 2:30 p.m. It will dition, Phyllis Aronson taught a class gift from The Jewish Museum of New edge of our events to you. Visit ourThe new year has brought new ideas focus on Jewish values and psycho- on how to make vegetarian chopped York. Later that afternoon, participants website and follow us on Facebookand new optimism at Temple Beth logical principles in line with the book liver. Join Sisterhood on Thursday, will be treated with a docent-led Zoom (Temple Beth El Fort Myers) and onShalom. Although, as of this writing, Here I Am by Leonard Felder. While February 11 at 7:00 p.m. to hear guest tour of The Jewish Museum of New Instagram (@templebethelfortmyers)the number of Covid-19 cases has been you are encouraged to read the book, speaker Professor Robert Watson dis- York. for updates, information and for an on-rising, the availability of the vaccine it is not required for attendance. If in- cuss “The Presidents’ Wives and Their Thank you to those who have been line community experience. has given us hope that we will soon be terested, contact Paul Kling at paul@ Influence in Presidential Politics.” The contributing to our Food and Femi- Just as the Jewish people haveable to meet in person and get back to paulkling.com. cost is $18 per household. For some nine Product Drive, organized by the risen above challenges for years, thea more social life. Some of our mem- The 2021 Winter History Series much-needed relaxation, join certi- TBE Mitzvah Committee. Donations TBE community is rising above thebers have been vaccinated already with Gerald Ziedenberg has been a fied yoga instructor Joe Krashin for a can be dropped off at the front of TBE challenges Covid has presented. Comeand others are working on getting success over Zoom! Last month, our 40-minute session on Wednesday, Feb- on a designated Tuesday from 10:00 join us and take part in Zoom Hebrew members learned about Henry Ford ruary 17 at 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Monetary donations in classes, current events discussions, and the presence of antisemitism at the Our Quarantine Bingos sponsored the form of checks can be written out Shabbat services on Friday nights and highest level, the heroic story of Janusz by TBE’s Men’s Club have been a huge to Cycle Forward, Jewish Federation much more. We look forward to seeing Korczak, and the life of Mordechai success! They have been packed. Make Food Bank or Harry Chapin Food you in person soon!

6. Lenny spent one hour On Sunday, January 31 the 2021 form for the annual Bat Yam Tem- BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS providing an overview of Interfaith Shared Scholar Lecture will ple of the Islands fundraiser concert, Sanibel the current state of global feature Dr. Susannah Heschel, the Eli which, in previous years, has enjoyed (732) 780-2016 Greenhouse Gas emis- M. Black Distinguished Professor and sold-out performances. This year the sions, and the emerging chair of the Jewish Studies Program at concert can accommodate up to 500 www.batyam.org public policy and private Dartmouth College. This program usu- “Zoom Rooms.” Accompanying Doni sector response to the ally held at the Sanibel Congregational and Eric, the principal members of the Bat Yam Temple of the Islands’ cal- threat of climate change. United Church of Christ (UCC) will be band, will be performances of favorite endar of events quickly filled with in- “Have You Ever Wanted to Lead on Zoom. Dr Heschel is the daughter songs from Bat Yam’s Cantor Murray structive, entertaining and heartwarm- the Torah Blessings But Weren’t Sure of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, a Simon and Rev. Dr. John Danner of ing events. Kicking off 2021, Lenny How” was the title of an informative colleague of Dr. Martin Luther King the Sanibel Congregational Church of Hochschild, founding partner at Envi- virtual workshop led by Vickie Fuchs Jr. She will speak about how her father Christ. Rabbi Stephen Fuchs will also ronmental Commodity Partners, gave on Wednesday, January 13, which might respond to the current issues sur- be part of the festivities. a Zoom talk entitled “The Economics left the participants with greater con- rounding systemic racism in the United We are excited to have Nefesh of Climate Change and Its Importance fidence in accepting ritual honors for States. All lectures are recorded and are Mountain, a favorite of both Jewish to Judaism” on Wednesday, January Shabbat services. available by emailing batyamsanibel@ and non-Jewish fans, performing their gmail.com. mashup of Jewish liturgy and bluegrass Bat Yam members are looking melodies. Nefesh is the Hebrew word forward to participating in the Federa- for soul. They characterize their music, What do you think? th tion’s 25 Annual Jewish Film Festival much of which they write themselves, taking place in February. Bat Yam is as a continuation of the cultural ex- the sponsor of the last of the six films, change between Jews and the countries L’CHAYIM wants to know! The One and Only Jewish Miss Amer- they live in. ica, about the surprising story of Bess This promises to be a not-to- Send your letters and comments to Ted Epstein, Myerson, which opens at the Festival be-missed afternoon, and the word L’CHAYIM Editor, at [email protected]. on Sunday, February 28. is spreading to family and friends Coming up on Sunday, March 7 throughout the U.S. and to other coun- Letters Policy at 4:00 p.m. is Nashville’s very own tries. The Zoom hall is likely to be Nefesh Mountain Blue Grass Band, packed. Be one of the fortunate ones to Letters must include the writer’s full name, full address and daytime phone. which combines bluegrass with Jew- score a ticket! For further information, Letters should be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length ish musical styles. Doni Zasloff and email [email protected]. See and/or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of L’CHAYIM Eric Lindberg, the husband-and-wife you there! nor its advertisers. We cannot acknowledge or publish every letter received. team who started the band, will per- L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 TEMPLE NEWS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 35

“The Jewish World of Al- in the community. There will be new there will be a Chaverot Book Club TEMPLE JUDEA exander Hamilton” is in games, as well as familiar games, meeting to discuss Kristin Hannah’s Fort Myers an article in this issue. and safety measures will be followed. novel, The Winemaker’s Wife. Con- (239) 433-0201 Chaverot will also What a great way to spend a Sunday tact Leni Sack at [email protected] for sponsor Sisterhood Shab- morning. more information. www.tjswfl.org bat on Saturday, February Lunchtime Torah study with Rab- Temple Judea members continue 6 beginning at 9:30 a.m. bi Sack is the first Thursday of each to donate food to the Jewish Federation On Tuesday, February 2 at 7:00 p.m., The service will be held in the syna- month at noon, with the next class on Food Pantry and continue to volunteer Chaverot of Temple Judea invites the gogue’s new outdoor sanctuary and Thursday, February 4. At this time, the at the Harry Chapin Food Bank. community to join in a Zoom pre- social hall – its parking lot! There will class is held on Zoom. There is no cost Regularly scheduled events: sentation on “The Jewish World of be social distancing and a great service to attend and all levels of Jewish back- • “Like” the Temple Judea Facebook Alexander Hamilton” presented by led by the women of Temple Judea. ground are welcome. page to livestream services or call Dr. Andrew Porwancher a professor of Festivities will continue in the new Religious School classes continue the office for the Zoom link. legal history at the University of Okla- outdoor social hall with celebration to be a combination of in-person and • Friday evening Shabbat services at homa. Drawing on sources in the West of Purim on Thursday, February 25 at Zoom options. Any families wishing 6:30 p.m. Indies, Professor Porwancher makes 5:30 p.m. There will be pizza and salad to enroll their children in our Religious • Saturday morning Shabbat ser- the case of Hamilton’s Jewish upbring- followed by the reading of the Megil- School should call the synagogue of- vices at 9:30 a.m. ing. There will be time for questions lah. Costumes are encouraged and, of fice to speak to Education Director Tab • Morning minyan every Monday at the end of his presentation. There is course, there will be delicious haman- Scribner. at 9:00 a.m. no cost, but donations to help under- taschen for dessert. Tab will lead an interactive and • Tot Shabbat the second Friday write the cost of the presentation will On Sunday, February 28 from lively Tot Shabbat service via Zoom night of each month at 5:00 p.m. be welcome! Please call the synagogue 10:00 a.m. to noon, there will be a Pu- on Friday, February 12 at 5:00 p.m. All • Rabbi Sack’s monthly lunchtime office to RSVP and to get the Zoom rim Carnival at Temple Judea, spon- families with young children are invit- Torah study sessions the first code and password. More about Dr. sored by Temple Judea and Temple ed to participate. Thursday of each month Porwancher and his upcoming book Beth El. The carnival is open to all On Tuesday, March 2 at 7:00 p.m.,

appointments. However, Tobi Gold is volunteering her time the tried and true. Kabbalat Shabbat TEMPLE BETH SHALOM we are not waiting. The to hold a chair yoga class in the parking services are continuing on Zoom and Cape Coral number of safe, socially lot on Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. The have made it possible for members (239) 772-4555 distanced activities is in- class is free and open to people of all who have moved away and new mem- creasing and we plan to levels of experience or none at all. bers to join us. www.templebethshalomcc.org do the best we can with Weather permitting, we will be Denise Simenauer has come up the resources we have. hold Havdalah services outside, and if with fascinating movies and topics for The new year has brought new ideas Our book group is now meeting that goes well we will try having a Fri- Thursday night enrichment, and Satur- and new optimism at Temple Beth outside at Jaycees Park in Cape Cor- day night service outside as well. We day night movies are always light and Shalom. Although, as of this writing, al. Members are careful to wear masks are working on a Purim extravaganza entertaining. Study with the Rabbi has the number of Covid-19 cases has been and social distance while enjoying the via Zoom ,choreographing the reading attracted quite a following. rising, the availability of the vaccine discussion, breezes and views of the of the Megillah in a whole new way. We welcome you to join us for ser- has given us hope that we will soon be river. In January we discussed The Even more exciting, we have several vices and other activities. Please call us able to meet in person and get back to Weight of Ink by Rachael Kadish. And new babies and are looking forward to at 239.772.4555 for updated times and a more social life. Some of our mem- on Thursday, February 4 at 1:00 p.m. baby namings in the parking lot. links to join. bers have been vaccinated already we will discuss The Fixer by Bernard While experimenting with these and others are working on getting Malamud. new activities, we are not forgetting

Zoom meetings. offers an interactive and participatory SHALOM LIFE CENTER We invite the entire Torah and Kabbalah study led by Rab- Fort Myers community to join us in bi Lawrence Dermer with a focus on (239) 218-3433 person every Friday at the relevance of our timeless traditions 5:00 p.m. to drop off do- and bringing the ancient wisdom of To- form for the annual Bat Yam Tem- www.shalomlifecenter.org nations of canned goods, rah and Kabbalah into our daily lives. ple of the Islands fundraiser concert, pet food and supplies, SLC also has a dynamic Women’s which, in previous years, has enjoyed Shalom Life Center is Southwest Flor- clothing, books, games and toys. This Circle led by Rebbetzin Robin Dermer sold-out performances. This year theida’s warm and welcoming home for is a great way for us to help the needy week. We are making a difference. with an emphasis on women’s spiritu- concert can accommodate up to 500contemporary Jewish life with a pas- while getting together safely and with Every Friday at 7:30 p.m. we expe- ality and personal growth. “Zoom Rooms.” Accompanying Donisionate commitment to community and social distancing while doing a great rience an uplifting, musical and mean- Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparation, To- and Eric, the principal members of thespiritual growth where everyone is al- mitzvah! ingful Livestream Shabbat service. To rah study, Women’s Circle Ladies band, will be performances of favoriteways welcome! In addition to supporting the food join with us, just visit www.shalom Night, What’s Up Wednesday, Book songs from Bat Yam’s Cantor Murray We are hoping to be safely wel- pantries at the local Federations, the lifecenter.org and click on SLC TV. Club, Green Team, Yiddish Culture Simon and Rev. Dr. John Danner of coming everyone back into our build- Gulf Coast Animal Shelter, Lee Coun- Every Saturday at 10:00 a.m. SLC Club, Genesis Study Group, monthly the Sanibel Congregational Church ofing for in-person services, clubs and ty Domestic Animal Services and The healing services and our Vir- Christ. Rabbi Stephen Fuchs will alsospecial events soon. In the meantime, Children’s Network of SWFL, we’ve tual Oneg Shabbat are taking be part of the festivities. we all remain connected and en- added even more to our already ambi- place in our SLC Zoom room We are excited to have Nefesh gaged through Livestream services and tious lineup of mitzvahs! for the time being. If you’d Mountain, a favorite of both Jewish Many thanks to David like to learn more, please and non-Jewish fans, performing their Lenz and Judy Rosenberg send us an email or give us a mashup of Jewish liturgy and bluegrass for coordinating our Hearts call. melodies. Nefesh is the Hebrew word and Homes drive to help the SLC also offers many oth- for soul. They characterize their music, homeless veterans in SWFL. er opportunities to enhance much of which they write themselves, And a great big thank you to your Jewish life and learning, as a continuation of the cultural ex- Rozzie and Eli Berkofsky for and further your involvement change between Jews and the countries coordinating our ACT Shel- in community service while they live in. ter drive helping victims of making friends in a warm and This promises to be a not-to- domestic abuse. We are also welcoming community. be-missed afternoon, and the word collecting Jewish and Isra- Let your spirit soar at is spreading to family and friends el-themed books to bring Yid- Shalom Life Center where throughout the U.S. and to other coun- dishkeit and Jewish light to the community is family and tries. The Zoom hall is likely to be Kares library in Athens, Ala- prayer is always inspirational, packed. Be one of the fortunate ones to bama, where it is very needed. meaningful and musical. For score a ticket! For further information, Thank you to all the wonderful more information, visit www. email [email protected]. See members of our Jewish com- shalomlifecenter.org or email you there! munity who continue to sup- us at info@shalomlifecenter. port our outreach week after org. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2021 36 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties

me? Love Living at Ho Attend one of our lunch & learn events at

10500 Dartington Dr. in Fort Myers

Learn how you can stay in your home as you age, with a safety net built on the solid foundation of Volunteers of America.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16th at 11am Meet Your Care Coordinator

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26th at 11am Life Plan Overview

We are taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of our guests, residents & staff. This includes keeping guests 6 feet apart during events. Upon entering, you will need to fill out a health screening form, get a RSVP temperature check, wear a mask, and wash hands or use hand sanitizer. 239.932.6587 for you and your friend to 1333 Santa Barbara Blvd. Cape Coral, FL 33991 Senior Choice at Home is a Volunteers of America membership-based community. Learn reserve your seats today! www.SeniorChoiceAtHome.com more at voa.org. AL #12982, HHA #299993155, HHA #299991969, SNF #1188096