Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties cordially invites you to our

Sunday, December 10, 2017 10:00 A.M.

Join us for a delicious breakfast and wonderful stories about cooking, people and love.

Make your reservation now to [email protected] or 239.481.4449 x-3

www.JewishFederationLCC.org Vol. 40, No. 4 n December 2017 / 5778 The MARCIA CAN HELP fund – an update lotte counties, beginning Pantry since the challenge FROM THE with his donation that was was issued, and I am de- EXECUTIVE 50% of our $28,000 goal. lighted to report that we MARCIA CAN HELP are 75% toward our goal DIRECTOR allowed for our Jewish and that we hope to reach  Alan Isaacs Family Services to have that goal, as planned, by additional funds to help the end of this year. n the September issue of us better provide for emergency nutri- Please contribute L’CHAYIM, I recounted a phone tional needs through our Food Pantry generously toward this Icall that I received that was the and gift card distribution, and assist the essential cause in the basis for a fund called MARCIA CAN neediest in our community with crisis spirit of Thanksgiving: HELP. Marcia Cohen of Omaha and grants to prevent utility cut-offs, evic- There, but for the grace Sanibel had passed away in 2015, and tions, loss of transportation, and other of God, go I. Jack, her husband, proposed that he essential services without which none For further informa- honor Marcia with a challenge to our of us can live. tion or to make a contri- community to raise additional funds to We thank those who have contrib- bution, please call me at support the indigent in Lee and Char- uted to our Indigent Fund and Food 239.481.4449. Jack and Marcia Cohen Jewish Federation Silicon Valley Community Breakfast Thelma & Louise Glee Stephen Tobolowsky A must for anyone who’s had a mother, was part actor / writer / director of a family, or who ate breakfast in the morning! Wild Hogs Mississippi Burning By Leni Sack Groundhog Day Deadwood eter Gethers wants to give his ag- Her father owned the legendary Jew- The Mindy Project ing mother, celebrated cook and ish kosher dairy restaurant Ratner’s on Memento Pcookbook writer Judy Gethers, Manhattan’s Lower East Side. She dis- a final gift: a spectacular feast featur- covered a passion for gourmet cooking ing all of her favorite dishes. The prob- when she was in her 50s, taking her first lem is, although he was raised to love job in the kitchen of the groundbreak- Next Appearance: food and wine, he doesn’t really know ing Los Angeles restaurant Ma Maison, Jewish Federation Lee & Charlotte Counties how to cook. Since when she was 53. She became a stroke has robbed a mentor and friend to some December 5, 2017 his mom of her own of the most famous chefs in read more… ability to cook, they America, including Wolf- embark on a series gang Puck, Nancy Silverton of conversations – and Jonathan Waxman, and often during meals eventually ran the Ma Cui- LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES that Peter attempts to sine cooking school, teaching presents a special evening with prepare – about food, alongside Julia Child among family, love and, many others. Learning to S TEPHEN T OBOLOWSKY what is becoming all cook changed her life – and too clear, the fact that the lives of those around her Tuesday, December 5, 2017 Judy’s life is drawing – and she created her own to a close. legendary status in the food PACESETTERS & The result is My Mother’s Kitch- world. As her health eventually began

LIONS OF JUDAH MAJOR GIFTS en: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and to fail, her taste remained, as did her the Meaning of Life, in which Geth- sense of humor and determination to Cocktails, Buffet Dinner Presentation ~ 7:30 P.M. & Meet the Author ~ 6:00 P.M. ers embarks upon a culinary and per- live life on her own terms. Dessert & Book Signing

Presentation ~ 7:30 P.M. sonal journey – often hilarious, always My Mother’s Kitchen is generously Dessert & Book Signing Minimum gift of $1,800 touching, and remarkably inspiring – seasoned with Peter’s trademark wit to the 2018 Federation Campaign that will ultimately allow him to bring and knowing eye. The book includes a Minimum gift of $5,400 to the 2018 Federation Campaign his mother’s friends and loved ones to selection of recipes ranging from Rat- Generously sponsored by the table one last time. ner’s Matzo Brei to Tarte Tatin, and Peter’s mother, Judy, always un- from a loaf of challah to salmon cou- FINEMARK BANK 12681 Creekside Lane Fort Myers derstood the importance – and inter- libiac, as well as family photos. Peter LIMITED SEATING R.S.V.P. by November 17 connectedness – of food and family. continued on page 3

9701 Commerce Center Court POSTMASTER: NONPROFIT ORG Fort Myers, Florida 33908 DATED RELIGIOUS U.S. POSTAGE NEWS ITEMS. PAID TIME SENSITIVE– FT. MYERS, FL PLEASE EXPEDITE! PERMIT NO. 175 DELIVER TO CURRENT RESIDENT OR L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 2 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION Program notes In this issue: he Jewish Film Festival is right around the lous speaker. Author Peter Gethers will delight and 5 Our Community corner. The committee has done a great job entertain us with his hilarious and emotional mem- Tchoosing a variety of movies that mix drama oir about his relationship with his beloved mother, 10 Jewish Interest and romance, the serious with the funny, and the past a gourmet cook who worked along Wolfgang Puck with the present. There’s also something new this and taught with Julia Child. Be sure to read the article 16 Jewish Film Festival year – there will be two movies shown on one evening about Peter in this issue. My Mother’s Kitchen will be 18 Marketplace during the festival. One film is available for sale before and after the event, and Peter considered a “short,” that is, a will autograph them after the breakfast. Just call or 19 Israel & the Jewish World movie shorter than 40 minutes; email me to RSVP. the other is a short movie that is Major donors to the 2018 Federation campaign 23 Commentary only 50 minutes. will be enjoying the company of actor and writer Ste- 24 From the Bimah The short is titled Talia, phen Tobolowsky on Tuesday, December 5 at Fine- and was written, directed and Mark Bank. Stephen, a seasoned character actor, is 26 Focus on Youth produced by Jewish Federation currently performing in the hit series Silicon Valley. 28 Organizations co-president Rozzi Osterman. He will be at the Federation event to talk about his  Leni Sack Rozzi will be on hand after the new book, My Adventures With God, the story of his 30 Community Directory movie for a Q&A about her evolving relationship with Judaism and God. Stephen documentary. Rozzi is an experienced documentary is a funny and engaging speaker, and we are excited 30 Temple News filmmaker and we are thrilled to include her film in to welcome him to our community. He will also be our festival. A brief description of Talia and the other autographing his book. movies in the film festival can be found in the center PJ Library is hosting a series of holiday events spread of this issue. You can also find information on for families with children ages 2-8. They will be held our website at www.jewishfederationlcc.org. from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. once a month from January So while there are ten evenings of films, there are through April. Stories, arts and crafts, music and a actually eleven films. You can buy the series of ten light supper are planned. There is no cost to attend evenings of films for the price of nine, or tickets for and each event is open to the community. individual evenings. Whichever you choose, I don’t The first of the PJ Library series, on Thursday, think you will be disappointed. This is your chance to January 25 at Temple Beth El, is about planting for travel the world and experience a variety of Jewish- Tu B’Shevat; the second, on Wednesday, February themed stories from the comfort of your seats. The 14 at The Community Free Synagogue, is about get- film festival begins Thursday evening, January 11 and ting ready for Purim; the third, on Tuesday, March 6 runs every Tuesday and Thursday evening through at Shalom Life Center, celebrates Passover; and on Tuesday, February 13 at the Regal Belltower Stadium Thursday, April 26 at Temple Judea, we’ll have fun 20. Sponsorships opportunities are still available. for Lag B’Omer. Zohar ben Hamu, Temple Judea’s It’s not too late to make a reservation for the Shaliach, will be leading the PJ Library holiday pro- Community Breakfast on Sunday, December 10 at grams, giving each a special “Israeli” flavor. 10:00 a.m. in the clubhouse at The Landings, 4425 I look forward to greeting “old friends” and mak- S. Landings, Dr. Fort Myers. Not only is there a deli- ing “new friends” at our upcoming events. I wish cious breakfast planned, but you’ll also hear a fabu- everyone a very Happy Hanukkah. See you soon! , thank you, Jewish news published monthly by Todah Rabah Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, FL 33908 to Temple Beth El (239) 481-4449 • Fax: (239) 481-0139 Online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org emple Beth El members Doreen  Kostel, Phyllis and Bernie Ar- December 2017 • Volume 40, Number 4  Tonson, and Russ Bogen, along Co-Presidents: Rozzi Osterman • Brian Simon with Cantor Richard Bessman, present- Board: Paul Bartrop • Herb Fried • Carolyn Gora ed Leni Sack with a check for $769 for Jerry Greenfield • Keith Grossman • Andi Horowitz Charles Idelson • Linda Idelson • Marsha Kistler the Federation’s Food Pantry and Indi- Sara Krivisky • Michele Laboda • JoAnn Lewin gent Fund. The money was donated as Barbara Siegel • Sylvia Simko • Sherri Zucker part of the food drive the temple held Executive Director: Alan Isaacs Program Director: Leni Sack during the High Holidays. Along with Executive Assistant: Lori Ramos monetary contributions, TBE members Jewish Family Services: Jodi Cohen  donated large amounts of canned and Editor/Designer: Ted Epstein (239) 249-0699 boxed goods for the pantry. Advertising: Jim Lewin (239) 634-6923  Since the High Holidays, the Fed- eration’s Food Pantry and Indigent L’CHAYIM invites correspondence on subjects of interest to Jewish people. Partisan political opinions will not be published, Fund have benefited from the gener- but opinions on subjects affecting the Jewish community are osity of Temple Beth El members, as welcome. All inquiries regarding copy for L’CHAYIM should be directed to the editor. All news material must be very clearly well as from many others in the Jew- printed or typed (not in all-capital letters) and double-spaced. ish community. With the community’s Electronic submissions encouraged. The editor reserves the help, the Federation will continue to right to edit for space and content. Photographs should be clear, black-and-white or color be there for those who are hungry and prints. If you wish a photograph returned, include a stamped, those who are in need. self-addressed envelope of appropriate size. The Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties disclaims responsibility or endorsement of the views expressed by the writers and claims by advertisers. JANUARY ISSUE EDITORIAL DEADLINE: Tuesday, December 5 Grow your business with L’CHAYIM.

Reach 5,000 local JEWISH FEDERATION Jewish residents FOOD PANTRY through this paper. Following is a list of staples always in need at the food pantry: For more information Peanut butter and jelly Pasta sauce (pasta, not needed) or to place an ad, call Jim Rice and beans Canned vegetables and fruits Cereal Canned meats at 239.634.6923 Condiments Toiletries for adults & children

or send an email to Gift cards to places like Publix, Walmart, Target, etc., as well as cash donations, are also appreciated. [email protected]. Jewish Family Services helps seniors, individuals and families with a variety of needs. L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 OUR FEDERATION Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 3 Program notes Senior Lunch Bunch update By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach Coordinator fter our September lunch was quite user-friendly and canceled due to weather, we the feedback I received Awere back in the saddle with a from one of the newbies fantastic October lunch hosted at The was that everyone was Community Free Synagogue. Rabbi so warm and welcom- Bruce Diamond led the group in a Jew- ing. Woohoo! That’s ish version of Jeopardy called “Jew- what I like to hear! pardy,” and a good time was had by all. The purpose of In November, our lunch was host- these monthly gather- ed at Temple Judea, where Rabbi Marc ings is to come together Sack shared stories about his path to and connect, with food, becoming observant and talked about fun and frolic. There is what’s happening in Conservative and a short program after Orthodox Judaism. A lively Q&A fol- the lunch. If you have lowed. a hankering for a certain program or If you would like to attend, There have been some new faces, have other ideas, please feel free to RSVP by Friday, Decem- and since the lunches are all about share them with me, as I’m always on ber 15 to 239.481.4449 building community, I try to make a the lookout for creative programming. x6 or jodicohen@jfedlcc. shidduch, a match, between people at- Our next lunch will be on Tuesday, org. Please let me know tending for the first time with people December 19 at noon at Temple Beth if you will need a ride to who attend regularly. The group is Shalom, 702 SE 24th Ave., Cape Coral. the lunch. Also, please let me know if this will be the first time you will be at- tending the Senior Lunch Bunch. I look forward to see- ing you. Come on down!

Community Breakfast...continued from page 1 has written an unforgettable memoir vecchio, Sicily. about how food and family can do My Mother’s Kitchen will be on much more than feed us – they can sale during the event, and Peter will be nourish our souls. autographing books at the end of the Peter Gethers is an author, screen- breakfast. writer, playwright, book editor, and Don’t miss our annual Community film and television producer. His Breakfast on Sunday, December 10 previous eleven books include The Cat at 10:00 a.m. at The Landings. It’s an Who Went to Paris, the first in a best- opportunity to enjoy a delicious break- selling trilogy about his extraordinary fast, “schmooze” with friends, meet cat, Norton. He is also the co-creator new ones, and get to hear a beautiful and co-producer of the hit off-Broad- and touching story of a son and his way play Old Jews Telling Jokes. He mother. lives in New York City, Sag Harbor, For more information, please see New York, and, when possible, Gangi- the ad on page 5.

UPCOMING FEDERATION EVENTS 2017/18

D. Pacesetters/Author vent alented Jewish actor Stephen obolowsky who has appeared in over movies and television shows will talk about his new book “My Adventures with God”.

D. ommunity Breakfast Author Peter Gethers will talk about his new book “My Mother’s Kitchen: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner and the Meaning of Life”.

JA. Jewish ilm estival he Annual Jewish ilm estival of SW lorida is proud to present another premier lineup of outstanding and highly diverse films that will ecite, delight, enlighten and provoke our audience. B. B. Author vent at Alliance for the Arts Laurie Lico Albanese’s book, “Stolen Beauty”, combines uropean Jewish historical fiction with art.

B. Maor Gifts eception A special evening cocktail and dinner event as a thank you to our most generous donors.

MA. Women’s Philanthropy/Lion of Judah ne of the original writers on The JEWISH FEDERATION Mary Tyler Moore Show, Susan Silver, will make us laugh and “kvell” as she talks about her search for a productive life, a reconnection to FOOD PANTRY her Jewish roots and her deep involvement with Israel.

AP. olocaust Memorial Service his annual event is about Following is a list of staples always in need at the food pantry: honoring the memory of the victims of the olocaust, as well as fulfilling the promise to “never forget”. Peanut butter and jelly Pasta sauce (pasta, not needed) Rice and beans Canned vegetables and fruits AP. Israel at est ard to believe, but Israel is turning years old Join us as we celebrate Cereal Canned meats a year of recognizing Israel’s innovative spirit with a big birthday bash Condiments Toiletries for adults & children

Gift cards to places like Publix, Walmart, Target, etc., as well as cash donations, are also appreciated. Jewish Family Services helps seniors, individuals and families with a variety of needs. STAY TUNED. MORE INFO TO FOLLOW! L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 4 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION

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

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

TRIBUTES How the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties Serves In memory of David B. Goldberg from Michael & Evelyn Perugini Local Jewish Education and Culture Daniel Hofstetter  Communitywide Jewish Education and Culture Programs for all ages including the Jewish Film Festival, Jewish Author In memory of Freida Axelrod Events, Israel Celebration, Jewish genealogy, Israeli folk from Rozzi & John Osterman dancing, social groups, etc. Diane & Larry Seidenstein  L’CHAYIM published monthly to keep the Jewish community informed about local, national and international Jewish issues.  In honor of Marsha Kistler’s birthday Community Relations activities include monitoring anti Semitism and issues of separation of church and state in the from Grace Sheldrick community. Cosmo Sapienza  Israel Advocacy and Initiatives to strengthen local Jewish Albertina Baser community ties with Israel. Holocaust Education through the Linda & Paul Croteau Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida to middle and high Diane & Larry Seidenstein school students in the community.

Overseas Each month, L’CHAYIM will list your Tributes.  Funding to the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Please send them to Lori Ramos Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) for full spectrum at the Federation at [email protected]. social services to Israel and Jewish communities in 60+ countries around the world.  Partnership 2Gether relationship with the HaderaEiron Region in Israel. Thanks to the following supporters of L’CHAYIM for their contribution to help underwrite the cost of Local Seniors Services  Holiday baskets and teen visits to seniors and senior facilities bringing news of the local, national and international for Rosh Hashanah, Hanukah and Passover. Jewish community to your mailbox every month!  Seniors & Volunteers Lunch Program.  Emerging and pressing needs related to senior housing, health and socialization. REPORTERS: Norman Newman Local Case Management Services  Nonsectarian, individual and family outreach, information and referral services. Have an item you’d like to share?  Individual life coaching and support services.

Need to reach the editor of L’CHAYIM? Local Emergency Services  Food Pantry. Send an email to [email protected].  Emergency financial assistance.  Education and aid associated with natural disasters.

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

INDIGENT FUND Jewish Community Foundation Temple Beth El  An endowment that ensures the longterm financial base of Israeli Dancers Daniel Hofstetter charitable, social and educational programs in our community. Grace Sheldrick Cosmo Sapienza  Needsbased college scholarships and study scholarships in Michael & Evelyn Perugini Albertina Baser Israel. Rozzi & John Osterman Robert & Bette Batson  Projects and programs aimed at Jewish community enrichment. Gene & Andrea Sipe Linda & Paul Croteau Diane & Larry Seidenstein Norman Newman Beginner Mah Jongg Players Naomi Bloom & Ron Wallace

FOOD PANTRY Temple Beth El Judy & Marty Freling Sara Krivisky Temple Judea Phyllis Silver Henkel Sherri Zucker Shalom Life Center Rozzi Osterman Howard Silverman Claire Goldhagen Joe Goldberg Leslie & Robert Locher Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel

Grants Available

The Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Grant is available through the Community Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. The grant may be used for travel to Israel to participate in programs that are volunteer or educational in nature. Our hope is that these programs will enhance Jewish knowledge and identity in preparation for participation in American Jewish life. This grant is for Jewish residents of either county who are 25 years old or younger and can demonstrate a financial need. Academic standing and community involvement may also be considered. For more information or an application, please visit our website at www.JewishFederationLCC.org or contact the Federation at 239-481-4449, ext. 4 or email [email protected]. Together we CAN Make a Difference! L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 OUR COMMUNITY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 5

The Jewish Federation Annual Campaign provides the resources to Holocaust Museum update strengthen and enrich our Jewish community locally, in Israel and around the world. By Susan Suarez, Executive Director YOUR SUPPORT s 2017 winds down, here are as a beneficiary in a will, and donate to Strengthen &Sunday enrich some of the things I am thank- our annual fund. You can also make “In Promote ful for: a Museum full of en- Honor Of” and “In Memory Of” dona- Share your JEWISH COMMUNITY A th Honor/ KINDNESS March 1st ergetic, curious 8 graders from Pine tions to celebrate and remember those Remember MITZVAH Ridge Middle School and their tireless special people and events in your lives. A LOVED ONE teachers; dedicated Volunteer Docents Event Sponsorships and underwriting of who share their knowledge of history Education and Museum programming and passion for offer another option for charitable giv- our mission with ing to the Museum. This year please consider making an additional campaign contribution in honor or in memory of a loved one. our visitors and Many people are finalizing their Because kindness is contagious we would like to highlight your generosity in L’CHAYIM and notify personally those whom students; deter- end-of-year charitable donations list. you honor. You may choose how your generosity is noted and how we share your mitzvah with our community. mined Holocaust We hope you will add the Museum to survivors, like yours. We cannot emphasize enough Sabine van Dam, the far-reaching impact you will have who share their locally, across the country and around stories so that the the world. Our programs encourage each  Susan next generation of us to recognize the value of each other Actresses Amelia Vaughan and Amanda Gonzalez Zuniga portray Sabine van Dam Suarez will remember and take positive action against bigotry, and her sister Hadassah (photo courtesy Gulfshore Playhouse) and take action in the face of hatred. hatred and violence. For more informa- choices and actions define us. One stu- caust Remembrance Day All this and more is made possible by tion on donation options, or to suggest dent who saw the play wrote to Sabine: ¡¡ January - April - Displaced Persons generous supporters like you. one that best suits your interests, please “I will never forget the moment I shook Exhibit; at the Museum Your support of our mission has contact me at 239.263.9200 or susan@ your hand… it was an honor since I was ¡¡ January - March - Elliott Katz Holo- touched the lives of thousands of stu- HolocaustMuseumSWFL.org. in front of a woman who fought for her caust Lectures begins January 11; at dents, their families and communities The Luncheon is almost here! life… was fearless and had the courage Hodges University Naples Campus around the world. The positive impact Please join us for the premier early to keep moving forward with her life. ¡¡ March 5 - Triumph 2018 Annual is both immediate and far-reaching into winter season event in Naples on Fri- You are an example to follow.” Fundraiser; at Club Pelican Bay the future as well, as students and the day, December 15 at The Ritz-Carlton Coming up this season Opportunity to Display the Boxcar public will remember and share what Beach Resort, 280 Vanderbilt Beach We have an exciting lineup of programs in 2018 they learned in Museum programs – that Road, Naples. The event starts at 11:30 and events scheduled. Call the Museum If your school, organization or com- each of us has the capacity and power to a.m. Sponsorships are available. For at 239.263.9200 or visit www.Holo munity group is interested in hosting make a positive difference to someone more information on tickets and spon- caustMuseumSWFL.org for details. the Boxcar Exhibit, please contact Sam else. They now also more fully under- sorships, please contact Tim Morrison Here is a partial schedule: Parish, Education Specialist, for avail- stand the importance of taking action at 239.263.9200 or tim@Holocaust- ¡¡ December 7 – Artist Bill Farnsworth able dates at sam@HolocaustMuseum whenever they encounter bigotry, hatred MuseumSWFL.org. Dress is business presentation on his exhibit, “Paint- SWFL.org or 239.263.9200. and violence. casual attire. ing the Irena Sendler Story”; at the The Boxcar Exhibit is on loan to the Thank you for all the ways you Be part of the first public audience to Museum Museum from Jack and F.E. Nortman support the Museum. Just as there are see the national debut performance of ¡¡ December 11 - Presentation on Var- and The Boxcar Foundation. many different types of donors, there In Flight! The short inspirational play ian Fry by Museum staff member Thank you again for your support. are many ways you can help support the about the childhood of Holocaust sur- David Nelson; at the Museum Wishing you and your loved ones a Museum. You can become a Museum vivor and Museum speaker Sabine van ¡¡ December 15 - The Luncheon; at happy and safe holiday season and a member, attend our events, donate your Dam was written by Hester Kamin and The Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort, wonderful 2018 as well! time as a volunteer, or shop on Ama- produced in partnership with Gulfshore Naples We look forward to seeing you often zonSmile and designate the Museum Playhouse. In Flight is being presented ¡¡ January 27 - International Holo- at the Museum. as your charity of choice. Or, you can in local schools this year, providing make a donation of stock, include us students the opportunity to see how our

Pine Ridge Middle School students at the Museum

Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties

cordially invites you to attend our COMMUNITY BREAKFAST SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10 at 10:00 A.M.

Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel

Grants Available

The Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Grant is available through the Community Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. The grant may be used for travel to ~ Featuring ~ Israel to participate in programs that are volunteer or educational in nature. Our hope is that these programs will Author Peter Gethers enhance Jewish knowledge and identity in preparation for participation in American Jewish life. This grant is for Jewish Come for a delicious breakfast and enjoy a wonderful story residents of either county who are 25 years old or younger and can demonstrate a financial need. Academic standing about cooking, people and love. and community involvement may also be considered. For more information or an application, please visit our website at www.JewishFederationLCC.org or contact the Federation at 239-481-4449, ext. 4 or email [email protected]. THE LANDINGS Couvert: $25/person 4571 S. Landings Dr. RSVP to Leni at 239.481.4449 x3 Fort Myers 33919 or [email protected]

Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties

cordially invites you to attend our COMMUNITY BREAKFAST SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10 at 10:00 A.M.

~ Featuring ~

Author Peter Gethers

Come for a delicious breakfast and enjoy a wonderful story about cooking, people and love.

THE LANDINGS Couvert: $25/person 4571 S. Landings Dr. RSVP to Leni at 239.481.4449 x3 Fort Myers 33919 or [email protected] L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 6 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR COMMUNITY Hadassah celebrates Israel’s 70th birthday Free weekly winter lecture series By Arlene Yedid n May 14, 1948, in Tel Aviv, During these seventy years, Is- ects and facilities. Who would have tiple sclerosis, AIDS, Parkinson’s dis-with historian Gerald Ziedenberg David Ben-Gurion announced rael has remained strong and proud. dreamed that one day, Hadassah Hospi- ease and cardiac health. By Linda Sweet Othe State of Israel, establishing Wars ensued, yet Israel has remained tals at Mt. Scopus and Ein Kerem in Je- Another project is Youth Aliyah, the first Jewish state in 2,000 years. His a symbol of hope and dreams. From rusalem would grow into a world-class which has saved the lives of disadvan- proclamation consisted of these words: desert and swamp, a remarkable nation medical organization, instrumental in taged and at-risk children by provid- “We members of the people’s bloomed, nurtured by love and resil- saving and improving lives through- ing housing, education and training in council, representatives of the Jewish ience. It is a land that fills us with pride. out Israel, the Middle East and the three Hadassah-supported Youth Ali- community of Eretz Israel and of the The Collier-Lee Chapter of Ha- world? In times of international crisis, yah villages. Zionist movement, are here assembled dassah is celebrating the birthday of this medical organization has provided “Hadassah Celebrates Israel’s 70th on the day of the termination of the Israel with a special brunch at the Hil- critical help to such countries as Haiti, Birthday” is a benefit for the Collier- British mandate over Eretz Israel and, ton Naples on Sunday, February 25 Darfur, Kenya, Ethiopia, Thailand and Lee Chapter of Hadassah for Israeli by virtue of our natural and historic from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. “Hadas- the Philippines. and American life-sustaining projects. right and on the strength of the resolu- sah Celebrates Israel’s 70th Birthday” The Hadassah Medical Organiza- The community is invited to this gala tion of the United Nations General As- presents a sumptuous brunch featur- tion has created outstanding research event. For information, contact the sembly, hereby declare the establish- ing Israeli delicacies. Exciting musical programs such as Hadassah’s Human benefit chairperson, Lee Henson, at ment of a Jewish state in Eretz Israel, performances will feature two talented Embryonic Stem Cell Research Cen- 239.495.7866 or lhenson13@gmail. to be known as the State of Israel.” performers singing popular Israel mu- ter, one of the most advanced embry- com. Tears flowed as the audience wild- sic: Temple Shalom Cantor Donna Azu onic stem cell research programs in the This will be an event to remember, ly applauded. At long last, the birth of and Jane Galler, Cantorial Soloist of world. It leads the way with advance- befitting the awe-inspiringth 70 birth- Israel! In the distance, the sound of Naples Jewish Congregation. The Fort ments in ALS, breast and colon cancer, day of Israel! guns could be heard. Israel’s statehood Myers Shalom Dancers will present diabetes, macular degeneration, mul- was being violently challenged by an Israeli dances, inviting guests to par- Arab declaration of war, waged for al- ticipate in the joyful celebration. The most two tumultuous years. Hilton is offering complimentary valet Community Free Synagogue parking. Israel’s remarkable events and programs growth has been assisted Hanukah celebrations Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song, is the by Hadassah Israeli pro- The festive first night lighting of The off-the-wall story of an Orthodox “su- grams and institutions. Community Free Synagogue public perbad” detective out to save Hanukah In the early days menorah will take place at 5:30 p.m. on from the clutches of Santa Claus’ evil of Palestine, Henrietta Tuesday, December 12 on Metro Park- son. You might want to stay home if Szold, the American way in front of the synagogue building. you have a “schmaltz” allergy. Pack a founder of Hadassah, The 8-foot electronic golden menorah, dinner; admission and soft drinks are brought her skills as a the creation of Rabbi Thomas Miess, always free. nurse to a scarcely popu- will also be lit at the same time each C.F.S. Israel Pilgrimage lated land comprised of evening, except for Friday, each night The Community Free Synagogue’s swamp and desert. She of Hanukah. The public is encour- June 4-14 Israel Pilgrimage is begin- was instrumental in es- aged to attend. Hanukah treats will be ning to fill up. This very moving and tablishing Israeli medi- served. educational exploration of Israel, led The Shalom Dancers cal and educational proj- At 6:30 p.m. on Sabbath Hanu- by Rabbi Bruce Diamond, is the expe- kah eve, C.F.S. will enjoy a tradi- rience of a lifetime. Custom created by tional Latke Dinner and Hanukah the rabbi, the C.F.S. pilgrimage both Stay in touch throughout Sing-Along. Bring your menorah and informs and inspires the deepest love candles or use ours. As always, dinner for what Israel represents to the Jewish the month. Sign up for the is free and open to all. Reservations are people. not required, but please email comfree- All accommodations are “4 Star Federation’s e-blasts. [email protected] to indicate how many Plus” hotels and premiere Kibbutz we should expect. Guest Houses, with travel on the Pil- Get the latest information on “Brown Bag Movie Night” grimage’s exclusive deluxe Wi-Fi- The Community Free Synagogue’s equipped coach. The ten full touring upcoming community events next “Brown Bag Movie Night” starts days include all breakfasts and seven and cultural activities, breaking at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, December dinners, including a sumptuous Fare- news items, updates from 14 and features the 2003 Hanukah well Dinner in Abu Gosh. cult classic The Hebrew Hammer. The touring package is $2,835 Israel and lots more. This “shtick-laden” Jewish parody of plus air. For more information, visit the ’70s “Blaxploitation” movies like www.fortmyerssynagogue.com or call Send an email to Shaft, Super Fly and the classic Sweet 239.466.6671. [email protected] PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT OUR FEDERATION & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE. For All Your Southwest Florida Real Estate Needs This month’s Susan Glasser, Realtor® advertisers This publication is brought to you each month thanks to the support John R. Wood Properties of our advertisers. Please be sure to use their products and services, 15065 McGregor Blvd. #105 and mention that you found them in L’CHAYIM. Fort Myers, FL 33908 Advanced Pain Management....32 Living Happily Counseling...... 19 ® In front of Gulf Harbour Alliance Financial Group...... 19 Charles Massie, CPA, CFP .....19 Art of Fashion and Moore...... 19 Mathematics Tutoring...... 27 Gwen Baker, Realtor®...... 19 Michael Shapiro Photography...26 [email protected] Dr. Daniel Bendetowicz...... 18 Miromar Outlets...... 10 Mobile: (239) 281-3105 Cypress Cove...... 11 Paragon Pools...... 18 Harold Eskin, Attorney...... 13 PCC Tile...... 18 Office: (239) 472-2411 Lee County resident for more than 20 years Estero Fine Art Show...... 7 Publix...... 9 FineMark Natl. Bank & Trust....24 Robb & Stucky...... 13 Florida Gulf Coast University..20 Alan J. 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By Linda Sweet Another project is Youth Aliyah, emple Beth El welcomes back immigrant who became a billion- ‹‹ February 12: “Yitzhak Rabin,” the ca, one of the greatest movies of which has saved the lives of disadvan- snowbirds Gerald and Sheila aire, overthrew governments, and story of the life and death of one all time, and its innumerable Jew- taged and at-risk children by provid- Ziedenberg from Toronto. Ger- helped to found the State of Israel of Israel’s greatest prime ministers ish connections ing housing, education and training inT ‹ ‹ ald’s weekly lecture series, always a ‹ January 15: “How David Became ‹ February 26: Image Before My Gerald entered the academic world three Hadassah-supported Youth Ali-big hit at TBE, will take place Mondays Goliath,” the story of the IDF (Is- Eyes, a stunning documentary of following his retirement from a career yah villages. at 7:30 p.m. from January 8 to March rael Defense Forces) how three million Polish Jews in pharmacy in Canada. Free to pursue “Hadassah Celebrates Israel’s 70th12. This stimulating series is free and ‹‹ January 22: “The Story of Vladi- lived prior to the Holocaust – their his greatest passion, history, Gerald Birthday” is a benefit for the Collier-open to the community. Enlivening his mir Putin,” the dictator of Russia lives, culture, hopes and dreams earned two history degrees. He now Lee Chapter of Hadassah for Israeli history programs with anecdotes and ‹‹ January 29: “Change changes ‹‹ March 5: The life and times of consults and lectures in Canada and and American life-sustaining projects.humor, Gerald covers engaging topics everything,” how the growth of Henry Kissinger: war criminal or internationally. He has published four The community is invited to this galarelating to modern Jewish history. technology and the Internet has great statesman? books, including one about Jewish event. For information, contact the Comprising lectures, films and changed our lives for better and for ‹‹ March 12: The story of Casablan- heroes. benefit chairperson, Lee Henson,spirited at discussions, the schedule will worse 239.495.7866 or [email protected]: ‹‹ February 5: “Five Non-Jewish He- Studying family history brings more than just historical knowledge, com. ‹‹ January 8: “The Jewish Banana roes,” people who saved lives dur- it builds relationships. Learning the stories behind names and dates This will be an event to remember, King,” the story of a penniless ing the Holocaust teaches a personal history that explains more than just how each befitting the awe-inspiringth 70 birth- person came to be. EVERYONE WELCOME. day of Israel! Current Events Jewish Genealogy SIG (Special Interest Group) Next meeting: Thursday, December 14 10:00—11:30 a.m.

Community Free Synagogue with Gerald Ziedenberg LEARN HOW TO BEGIN RESEARCH INTO YOUR FAMILY’S HISTORY erald Ziedenberg, Temple Beth stop its spread everywhere? OR GET HELP FINDING NEW STRATEGIES TO ENHANCE THE SEARCH

YOU HAVE ALREADY STARTED. El’s very popular winter resi- ‹‹ Israel: Will the status quo hold? events and programs dent historian, is returning for What is the future of the Bibi gov- There is no cost to attend.RSVP is a must to Arthur at [email protected] Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song, is the G Meetings are held at the Jewish Federation ● 9701 Commerce Center Ct. ● Fort Myers 33908 the season and will once again be lead- ernment? off-the-wall story of an Orthodox “su-ing us in our weekly Current Events ‹‹ Russia and the United States: What perbad” detective out to save HanukahDiscussion every Thursday at 10:00 is the relationship? from the clutches of Santa Claus’ evila.m. in the Temple ‹‹ North Korea: Is it a threat son. You might want to stay home if Beth El library be- to the world? 21st Bi-Annual HotWorks.org you have a “schmaltz” allergy. Pack aginning January 4. ‹‹ Protests: How far can ™ dinner; admission and soft drinks are Topics are al- they go? Estero Fine Art Show always free. ways modified for ‹‹ Iran: Is it still a nuclear C.F.S. Israel Pilgrimage late-breaking news threat? January 6 & 7, 2018 The Community Free Synagogue’sand input from the Join us for lively round- Gulf Coast Town Center June 4-14 Israel Pilgrimage is begin-attendees. Some of table discussions, and keep ning to fill up. This very moving andthe topics we will up with world and topical educational exploration of Israel, leddiscuss this season events, and how they affect by Rabbi Bruce Diamond, is the expe-are: Israel and Jews around the rience of a lifetime. Custom created by‹ ‹ The worldwide Gerald Ziedenberg world. All are welcome to at- the rabbi, the C.F.S. pilgrimage both refugee and immigration crisis tend at Temple Beth El, 16225 Winkler informs and inspires the deepest love‹ ‹ Terrorism: What can be done to Road, Fort Myers. for what Israel represents to the Jewish people. All accommodations are “4 Star Plus” hotels and premiere KibbutzA new course for women Guest Houses, with travel on the Pil-“The Sabbath is to the week what the lesson will also feature a hands-on grimage’s exclusive deluxe Wi-Fi-line break is to poetic language. It is “how to” series on making different equipped coach. The ten full touringthe silence that forces you to return to Shabbat foods. days include all breakfasts and sevenwhat came before to find its meaning.” We are honored to be a part of the dinners, including a sumptuous Fare- lease join us for the Rosh Ch- Rosh Chodesh Society, a global initia- well Dinner in Abu Gosh. odesh Society’s new course tive that aims to transform the lives of The touring package is $2,835 P“Pause and Affect,” where we Jewish women, their families and their plus air. For more information, visit will explore Shabbat – the gift of a greater communities through the bonds www.fortmyerssynagogue.com or callweekly retreat that can grant us mind- of shared Jewish experience. 239.466.6671. fulness, community, tech-free zones, The course takes place on Tues- and a deeply satisfying spirituality. We days at 7:00 p.m., once a month for will explore under the challah cover seven months. and over the Shabbat flames to see the For a complete list of dates, details inner, precious beauty of traditions that of each session and to register, visit go way beyond what the eye can see. www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com. Delve deep into the mysticism and For more information, call Sheina at join in the delight of Shabbat. Each 941.258.0188. Lee County Rabbinical Council formed n November 1, Rabbis ates of Hebrew Union College-Jew- Stephen Fuchs (Bat Yam ish Institute of Religion and mem- OTemple of the Islands), Ni- bers of the Central Conference of cole Luna (Temple Beth El), James American Rabbis (Reform). Rabbis Rudin (American Jewish Commit- Sack and Schorin are graduates of tee - retired), Marc Sack (Temple the Jewish Theological Seminary Judea) and Michael Schorin (Gulf and members of the Rabbinical Coast Medical Center) met to form Assembly (Conservative). the Lee County Rabbinical Council. The Council will be a forum for Rabbi Sol Agin (Temple Shalom, camaraderie, ongoing Jewish learn- Port Charlotte) will also be part of ing, discussion of issues of common this group. concern, and planning programs The Council is comprised of that bring the Jewish community rabbis who are graduates of an ac- together. credited academy of Jewish study A joint afternoon of study and HotWorks.org Facebook.com/hotworksartshows L. Frederick Wiesener, Clay and members of a national rab- discussion, led by the rabbis, is be- binical organization. Rabbis Agin, ing discussed for the spring. Voted Top 100 Juried Art Shows in the Country Fuchs, Luna and Rudin are gradu- 3 Years in a Row! Gulf Coast Town Center I-75 & Alico Rd/Exit #128 ~ Next door to Bass Pro Shop For a continuously updated Saturday, 10-7 and Sunday 10-5 ~ Plenty of onsite parking Kids! Call for Entries - Youth Art Competition for grades K-8 or 5-13 calendar of events, visit See Art, Love Art, Buy Art!™ See You There!

Shining a light on the people of Southwest Florida and the arts. www.JewishFederationLCC.org. NEWS MAGAZINES L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 8 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR COMMUNITY Federation helps sponsor Myra Roberts’ 2018 ‘Dream Peace’ exhibition enowned artist Myra Roberts Peace” features poster-style paintings person suffers because of discrimina- thanks the Jewish Federation of contemporary political injustices, tion. Our differences make life more Rof Lee & Charlotte Counties and of Bielski partisans and other sur- interesting and our common humanity for its generous support of her upcom- vivors of the Holocausts – some of matters most of all. ‘Dream Peace’ in- ing exhibition. “Dream Peace” will run whom were interviewed by the artist. spires viewers to ponder the need for during February at the Sidney & Berne Also included are spiritual/Buddhist change.” Davis Art Center in downtown Fort paintings that evoke the antithesis of “Dream Peace” includes “Sandy Myers. The collaborative opening re- war. Hook,” a painting about gun control; ception is Friday, February 2 from 6:00 The testimonial video interviews and “Never Again,” a commissioned to 10:00 p.m. The exhibit runs through are embedded in Roberts’ found object work by Planned Parenthood of South- Saturday, February 24. installations in the form of “talking west and Central Florida, titled “Never Pianist/teacher Roxane Olevsky, a suitcases.” Two-time Emmy Award- Again.” new resident of Sanibel, will play dur- winner Jesse Stein helped the artist In addition to the “Dream Peace” ing the opening. She has put together a with the videos. One “talking suitcase” works, Roberts will exhibit selected features Sanibel resident Rob- pieces from recent series. “Florida Ret- ert “Bob” Hilliard, who was ro” paintings resurrect the Sunshine stationed in Germany shortly State’s past, and “Endangered Species” after World War II’s end. works draw attention to future con- A suitcase assemblage and cerns. “Smokescreen: Prelude to the a portrait depict Irena Sendler. 1940s” is a series of collages that depict Robert Hilliard A Catholic, she was “head of American and/or German middle-class SouthWestern State College’s Cultural the children’s bureau of Zego- domestic life combined with images Diversity Week at its Fort Myers cam- ta, an underground organiza- of Hitler’s rise to power. “Angels on pus. Roberts also exhibited works at tion set up to save Jews after Earth” celebrates extraordinary lives. the Progressive Women’s Day program the Nazis invaded Poland on Included is 2014 Nobel Peace Prize co- in Fort Myers, helped judge the 2018 September 1, 1939,” The New winner Malala Yousafzai, who is now ArtFest Fort Myers, lectured and had a York Times wrote in her obitu- studying at Oxford University. solo exhibit at Captiva Yacht Club, and Myra Roberts ary. “She and the network of gave a presentation to an English class selection of short pieces “reflecting the rescuers smuggled about 2,500 Jew- at FGCU. spirit of the exhibition.” Also perform- ish children out of the Warsaw ghetto, At the end of January, she will dis- ing will be Megan Shindler and her some of them in coffins.” cuss “Dream Peace” with John Davis theatrical collective S(he) Will Fade, Another portrait is of Franceska on WGCU’s Gulf Coast Live radio which “creates ethnographic work.” Mann, one of the most promising danc- call-in show. On Sunday, March 18, ers of her generation, who lost Roberts will lecture at the Jewish Com- her life in a horrific uprising munity Day of Learning at Temple of prisoners in Crematorium Shalom in Naples. 4 at Auschwitz. Another “talk- ing suitcase” features the late Elly Weingarten of Fort My- ers Beach. She was born in Czechoslovakia and, at age 13, was one of five children to “miraculously” survive the Auschwitz concentration camp. Franceska Mann Dream Peace “Making meaningful so- The Sidney & Berne Davis Art As an artist focusing on social cial statements about our human con- Center hosted a retrospective exhibi- commentary issues, Roberts’ “Dream dition is important to me, and links the tion of her works in January 2015. Peace” is her newest series of multi- past and present,” explains the artist. WGCU Public Media chose Roberts media works – more than 60 paintings “Crimes against humanity continue as one of five “2016 Makers: Women and found object installations. “Dream daily. We are all diminished when any Who Make Southwest Florida.” Nomi- nated by the public, the selection of Roberts was based on her impact in Chanuka at the Mall the arts and social justice in Southwest th Join Chabad for the 13 annual Community-wide Chanuka Celebration inside the Florida. Port Charlotte Town Center Mall in front of Dillard’s. Open to the public free of She lectures and exhibits through- charge. Enjoy the Grand Menorah Lighting, live music, hot latkes, donuts, crafts, out the United States. Recently, Rob- and fun for the entire family. For more information, including the date and time erts presented a program during Florida Ann Jaffe (which wasn’t available at press time), please call 941.833.3381 or visit www. chabadofcharlottecounty.com. Menorah Lighting at Fisherman’s village Chanukah begins This year we will once again have a Menorah Lighting at Fisherman’s Village in Punta Gorda. Join us on Saturday, December 16 at 7:00 p.m. for music and refresh- Tuesday night, December 12 ments.

ÎÎ Fun for the whole Family ÎÎ Great Jewish Music ÎÎ Lighting of the Grand Menorah ÎÎ Miamonidies Hebrew Day School choir ÎÎ Clown, Face Painting Sunday, December 17 at 3:30 p.m. ÎÎ Arts & Crafts On Board the Fort Myers Princess ÎÎ Chanukah Refreshments & Dinner 645 Old San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers Beach This event is sponsored by Chabad Lubavitch of SWFL. For reservations and more information, please call 239.433.7708 or email [email protected]. L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 OUR COMMUNITY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 9

Have a Happy Chanukah. And share what it means to you. #ChanukahPublix L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 10 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Ambitious meditation on spiritual transcendence Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing old and self-reflection hits all the right notes Holiday heartache – grandparents Book review by Philip K. Jason, Special to L’CHAYIM Forest Dark, by Nicole Krauss. intimidating personality and identity solidity and luster of pol- who magically flew fromcan help divorced kids get through Harper. 304 pages. he had built. He seems released into an ished stone. New York to Tel Aviv on Hardcover $27.99. alternate self. He smiles more, reads Each character’s jour- the same plane as Epstein. books on mysticism, and enters a new ney involves a sidekick, a Of course, like Nicole, nly a handful of books that zone of experience characterized by a kind of spiritual tour guide Epstein is staying at the Tel come out each year immediate- sense of lightness. He no longer believes who often seems half-real. Aviv Hilton. Oly signal “masterpiece.” Nicole in assurances. He wishes to be open. Epstein’s guide is Rabbi While the storylines of Krauss’ Forest Dark, a brilliant effort His children worry about him. Menachem Klausner, who Epstein and Nicole never that defines the human condition in an Nicole comes to realize that her life is in charge of research- quite touch, they reflect original way, is one of them. It is trans- has been overly structured. She is the ing the Davidic line, an and illuminate each other in formational, and result of confining and defining forces, enterprise in which the dozens of ways. Each narra- it is about trans- including meeting other people’s expec- Epstein name plays a sig- tive thread of Forest Dark, formation. If not tations. She speculates about how space nificant role. Or is he a charlatan? It’s if developed further in isolation, could deeply religious and time affect people’s identities and hard to be sure. Klausner will open become a praiseworthy novel. However, (though perhaps it destinies. She notices her lack of drive new vistas for Epstein by taking him interfaced as they are, they generate an is), it is religiously to plan things, and she takes this suspen- to the renowned sacred city of Safed, outcome that is far more than the sum profound. sion of will – as Epstein has taken his a center for Jewish spiritualism. of its parts. This structural inventive- The narrative changes – as a kind of freedom. Eliezer Friedman, a former lit- ness, coupled with the author’s soaring unfolds in alter- A good part of the novel is played erature professor, plays a role in Ni- imagination, probing intelligence and nating chapters out in Israel, particu- cole’s journey that has exquisite style, screams masterpiece.  Phil with two protag- larly Tel Aviv, which similar ambiguities. There is even some unexpected fun Jason onists. One is a holds promises and He’s part mentor, part in this statuesquely serious novel. The successful, fortyish writer whose path challenges for both confessor, part spiri- offhand references to two very different seems blocked. The other, nearing 70, characters. It has long tual seducer. Friedman Jewish writers, Joseph Telushkin and Rabbi Barbara Aiello is a successful lawyer and investor who been part of their indi- has a strange destiny Matti Friedman, hint at the scope of discovers that his life’s patterns have vidual lives. The Tel in mind for Nicole: Jewish cultural experience that Krauss been shaken up in a liberating way. Aviv Hilton looms finishing an unknown may expect from her readers. Or maybe The transformations the charac- large in Nicole’s work by Franz Kafka. she’s just having a good time with some ters undergo, whether sought after or psyche. Her osten- This goal allows the friendly name-dropping. suddenly realized, are described with sible reason for stay- Nicole sections of the This writer admits that he had a staggering acumen and accuracy. Each ing there is to base book to open up into an good time and more. conversion defines and redefines one a novel on the hotel. Nicole Krauss (photo credit Goni Riskin) exploration of Kafka’s This review first appeared in the of the central characters. The chapters However, while she knows that read- peculiar life and career. In these seg- Washington Independent Review of that focus on the novelist – let’s call ers expect fictional characters to have ments, as well, the mystique of King Books. See www.washingtonindepen her Nicole – are told in the first person. reasons for what they do, she wonders David, particularly his age-old role as dentreviewofbooks.com. Those given over to Jules Epstein (most if the actions of humans are truly rooted a transcendent literary figure, haunts Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeritus often referred to as “Epstein”) are told in such reasons. the narrative. of English from the United States Na- in the third person, though the narrator Nicole is penetratingly occupied Tour-guide Friedman, rather than val Academy. He reviews regularly for has lavish access to the man’s thoughts with such philosophizing. The author returning Nicole to her quarters at the Florida Weekly, Jewish Book World, and feelings. has the astounding ability to make her Hilton, becomes – a bit forcefully – her Southern Literary Review, and other Epstein’s life changes are extreme. characters’ streams of interrogation and guide to an Israel with which she is publications. Please visit Phil’s website Soon after his parents die, he ends his postulation as vivid and engrossing as not familiar. His speech is hypnotic, at www.philjason.wordpress.com. marriage, leaves his partnership in a powerful descriptions of places and somewhat like that of Rabbi Klausner, law firm, and frees himself from the actions. Her contemplations have the JEWISH FEDERATION BOOK CLUB

Upcoming meetings: Holiday Savings Upcoming meetings: Wednesday, November 29 for Everyone on Your List Wednesday, November 29 The Orphan’s Tale The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff by Pam Jenoff

Wednesday, December 27 Wednesday, December 27

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Book club is open to all. Book club is open to all. RSVP A MUST TO LENI RSVP A MUST TO LENI [email protected] [email protected] 239.481.4449 x3 239.481.4449 x3

Each Tuesday afternoon, an open session of Mah Jongg isEach held Tuesday at the Jewishafternoon, Federation. an open session of Mah Jongg

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for more information call *Subject to monthly maintenance fee. Terms and Conditions of the Card Agreement are set forth at MiromarOutlets.com. Copyright © 2017, Miromar Development Corporation. Miromar Outlets is a registered service mark of Miromar Development Corporation. for more information call 1217- 2758 Rona Strausberg at 239.949.9003 Rona Strausberg at 239.949.9003 L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 11 Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing old Holiday heartache – grandparents can help divorced kids get through By Rabbi Barbara Aiello Judaism has always accepted divorce as lonely for a kid to go to dad’s (or mom’s) “When my mom and grandma said my acceptance and respect, grandchildren an unfortunate fact of life, maintaining or grandparents and be the only child dad was bad, I felt like half of me was will follow suit. that it is better for a couple to divorce among grown-ups. R. says, “My best bad. And when my dad and Zayde said Emphasize to your family that than to remain together in a state of holidays at my dad’s house or with my the same thing about my mom, I felt grandparents are very important. constant bitterness and strife. (Tracey Bubby were when he let my best girl- like all of me was bad!” Bad-mouthing You son or daughter may have divorced R Rich, Jewish 101). friend come along.” your son or daughter’s ex is one of the your grandchild’s parent, but grandchil- hen a divorce happens, it is If parents haven’t done so, help most effective ways to ruin your child’s dren have not divorced grandma and important to acknowledge your grandchild select, buy and wrap self-esteem. grandpa. Research indicates that the Wthat the holiday season can gifts for divorced parents. My daugh- Holidays are family time so do more contact children have with loving be a particularly stressful time of the year ter recalls, “I remember how when Cha- one thing together as a family. R. says, members of their extended families, the for the kids. Several years ago, when my nukah came around and Grandma took “The time you, Dad and all the grand- healthier human beings they become. If daughter, R., was me shopping. Even though my mom parents came to my school performance necessary, gently explain that restricting a young adult, I and dad weren’t speaking, Grandma and sat together was so nice. Usually I contact can harm children at a critical asked her to dis- helped me buy a gift for my dad and my time when they need the unconditional cuss her experi- aunt. My mom’s mom stayed out of the love of loving grandparents. ences as a child problems between my parents and made So, Happy Chanukah, Merry Christ- of divorce. My sure to model respect and kindness to mas and Happy Holidays to you and daughter offered both parents.” yours. And if “yours” happens to include seven holiday sug- When it comes to gifts, don’t ex-spouses, stepparents and blended gestions for di- compete. For grandparents this can be families, remember that holiday celebra- vorced families tricky. Now that your own child is di- tions bring with them special challenges. Rabbi Barbara Aiello that merit parent vorced from your grandchild’s mother If you haven’t done so yet, this year rise and grandparent consideration. or father, your stress level can soar as had to run back and forth between you. to the occasion. Be more gracious, open Don’t fight about schedules. Be you contemplate how and when you will But that year, you sat together and I’ll and loving than you ever have been flexible. Remember that what is drafted see your grandchildren. This stress can never forget how good that felt.” Other before. Your grandchildren will thank in a legal document often doesn’t translate into buying a child’s affection kids say that a holiday meal or even a you and respect you for it. represent real situations, especially as through an over-the-top gift or outing. stop for ice cream shared with mom For ten years Rabbi Barbara Aiello children grow. R. suggests that both As you plan a gift, talk to both parents and dad and all the grandparents and served the Aviva Campus for Senior parents discuss a holiday schedule that – your own son or daughter and his/ stepparents are among their fondest Life in Sarasota as resident rabbi. includes time spent with grandparents her ex – to discuss their feelings about memories. If your son or daughter has Currently as Aviva’s Rabbi Emerita, as well. She says, “Staying an extra day the gift or the outing you’ve planned. remarried, your grandchild now must she shares her experiences on Aging with you or Daddy or having a visit at Keeping lines of communication open relate to more adults who share the pa- Jewishly. Contact her at Rabbi@Rabbi Bubby’s house didn’t mean I loved one will avoid your gift becoming a point rental role. When you demonstrate your Barbara.com. family more than the other.” Parents of contention rather than the joy that it and grandparents can wreck a holiday should be. by putting the “legal” schedule ahead of Never say bad things about the PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS what makes sense for the child. other parent. My daughter says, “No Let your grandchildren bring matter how you feel, be a grown-up WHO SUPPORT OUR FEDERATION friends over. Friends are so important and remember to never say anything and holidays are great times for friend- nasty about the ex-husband or ex-wife… ships to develop and deepen. It can be ever.” One seven-year-old child recalls, & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE. L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 12 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST When help was needed By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD he worst expressions of the political orientations. Jewish lives as the organization would been estimated that about half of the Holocaust took place across the Zegota was the brainchild of Hen- have liked. As a result, and wherever Jews who survived the Holocaust in Po- Tyears 1942-1943. In December ryk Woliński, a member of the secret possible, Zegota operatives sought to land – a figure representing over 50,000 1942, 75 years ago this month, two Polish Home Army. Once formed, its prop up their resources in alternate people – were helped by Zegota in one Polish women, Zofia Kossak-Szczuc- General Secretary was a member of ways (including, it has been alleged, way or another. ka (a writer) and Wanda Krahelska- Poland’s Socialist Party; its Treasurer robberies). To as great an extent as possible, Filipowicz (a member of Poland’s so- was a member of the Democratic Party. Zegota’s means were many, but it Zegota operated as a professional or- cial elite known by her nom de guerre, Both of these, of course, had been driven was found to be much easier to assist ganization. Although extensive in its “Alinka”), established an organization underground by the Nazi invasion and Jews if they were outside ghettos and on spread, it worked on the basis of smaller named Zegota. This occupation. The fundamental aim of the the “Aryan” side. Medical attention was cells, with up to one hundred of these was a secret group organization was the common cause of provided for Jews in hiding, along with in Warsaw alone. Elsewhere, it operated based in Warsaw, run saving Jews in danger from the Nazis, food and false-identity documents. Ze- in Krakow, Vilna (Vilnius) and Lvov jointly by non-Jews and in this, Poland was the only country gota attempted (and often succeeded) in (L’viv), with specific “departments” and Jews. Its goal in Nazi-occupied Europe where such providing help for Jews in forced labor covering such areas as legal, housing, was singular in na- an organization existed. Ultimately, the camps, while financial aid was provided clothing, children’s welfare, medical ture: to save Jews Council operated from its foundation when possible. Sometimes Zegota even care and finances, among others. from being murdered in December 1942 until the liberation managed to assist in escapes, though Poland, the only Nazi-occupied  Dr. Paul by the Nazis. of Poland in 1945. all too often such activities could often country where helping Jews was pun- Bartrop The Rada Po- The organization was recognized not be planned in advance; it was more ishable by death, was also the only mocy Zydom, or Council for Aid to and received assistance from outside. likely that advantage had to be made of country that saw the establishment of an the Jews, originated as the Provisional By the late spring of 1944, much of the local circumstances as and when they organization such as Zegota. It has been Committee for Aid to Jews (Tymcza- funding it received was coming from the presented themselves. estimated that during the war perhaps sowy Komitet Pomocy Żydom), which Polish government-in-exile in London, One of Zegota’s major tasks related up to 20,000 members of Zegota were the two women established on Sep- though owing to the war situation this to the forging of documents, such that captured and executed by the Germans, tember 27, 1942. Unlike many such often only arrived after a circuitous, on average the organization was said to with thousands of others imprisoned organizations during World War II, it dangerous and time-consuming route. have been producing up to a hundred and sent to concentration camps. It was did not abbreviate its formal title into an The financial resources needed to save sets of forged papers at any one time. remarkable that the location of Zegota’s acronym. From the beginning, it was es- even one Jewish life ranged from 6,000 Zegota also played an important head office in Warsaw, at 24 Zurawia sentially an independent Catholic body. to 15,000 zlotys. Depending on the situ- role in saving Jewish children by Street, was well known to Poles but was When it was transformed more formally ation, Zegota’s monthly budget ranged placing them with foster families, or never raided by the Germans. into Zegota, on December 4, 1942, it anywhere from 500,000 to two million relocating them to orphanages and Zegota was a truly unique phenom- became a broad-based joint organization zlotys, which, though seemingly large, convents. In Warsaw, the head of Ze- enon within the horror of the Holo- of Jews and non-Jews from different did not meet the needs of saving as many gota’s children section, a Polish social caust, which bought the lives of tens of worker named Irena Sendler, assumed thousands of Jews at the cost of tens of near-legendary status through person- thousands of Poles. In an environment ally taking care of over 2,500 Jewish in which the history of Polish relations children. Sendler, who was one of with Jews has frequently been soured by many members of Zegota recognized frequent expressions of anti-Semitism, by Israel’s Yad Vashem as Righteous this stands as a shining example of Among the Nations, was nominated what could have been done throughout for a Nobel Prize before her death in the rest of Europe if more people of 2008. goodwill decided that it was necessary By the time the Council was estab- to make a stand. lished, a majority of Poland’s Jews had Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of History already been killed, but the organiza- and the Director of the Center for Ju- tion’s activists, at enormous personal daic, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies risk, still managed to help several thou- at Florida Gulf Coast University. He sand of those remaining. Indeed, it has can be reached at [email protected].

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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 DECEMBER 2017 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 Family’s History? be Jewish for the purpose of the column. Persons identified as Jewish have at least one Jewish parent and were not raised in a faith other than Nate Bloom (see column at left) has become a family history expert in 10 Judaism – and don’t identify with a faith other than Judaism as an adult. Converts years of doing his celebrity column, and he has expert friends who can help to Judaism, of course, are also identified as Jewish. when called on. Most family history experts charge $1,000 or more to do a full family-tree search. However, Bloom knows that most people want to start Holiday Movies a top snow skier and former NFL player, with a limited search of one family line. Here are movies opening from Thanks- identifies as a Christian. Not sure about giving through the New Year with a Molly. (Opened Wednesday, November So here’s the deal: “biggish” Jewish connection. Open- 22) Write Bloom at [email protected] and enclose a phone number. ing Wednesday, November 22 was the The Current War tells the story animated filmCoco from Disney/Pixar of the battle between Thomas Edison Nate will then contact you about starting a limited search. If that studios. Capsule plot: Twelve-year-old and George Westinghouse as to whose goes well, additional and more extensive searches are possible. Miguel dreams of becoming an accom- system will be chosen to provide elec- The first search fee is no more than $100. No upfront cost. Also, plished musician like his idol, deceased tricity to homes and businesses in the musician Ernesto de la Cruz. However, late 1880s. Sounds dry, but this was a several of this newspaper’s readers have asked Bloom to locate his family has a generations-old ban on battle royale, with some really weird friends and family members from their past, and that’s worked out music. He ignores this and journeys to twists. Michael Shannon plays Edison great for them. So contact him about this as well. the Land of the Dead where he meets and Benedict Cumberbatch plays West- Hector, a charming “trickster,” and to- inghouse. The original screenplay is by gether they unlock the real story behind MICHAEL MITNICK, 34, the author Friday, December 15. Capsule plot: LAWRENCE SHER, 47. He’s long Miguel’s family history. of several hit regional theater plays. When famed frontier lawman Eddie been one of the best comedy film cin- The voices of the characters are (Opened Friday, November 24) Johnson (Peter Fonda) is unexpectedly ematographers around. (Opens Friday, all provided by Hispanic actors. LEE The Disaster Artist depicts the killed, his longtime sidekick and friend December 22) UNKRICH, 50, directed the film and meeting and early friendship of Greg Lefty Brown (the late Bill Pullman) The Post is an historical drama co-wrote the story that is the basis for Sestero and Tommy Wiseau, the actors will stop at nothing to avenge Johnson’s about the role of the Washington Post the flick’s screenplay. Unkrich won the behind the 2003 cult film The Room, death. newspaper in the publication of the Oscar for best animated film in 2011 often hailed as the Citizen Kane of Also opening on the 15th is Star Pentagon Papers in 1971. The papers (Toy Story 3, which he produced and bad movies; the troubled making of it; Wars: The Last Jedi. As you guessed, the were secret government reports on the directed). He has co-directed many other and their respective careers after the Skywalker saga continues as the heroes Vietnam War. Meryl Streep stars as Pixar hits. Lee and his wife, LAURA, surprising success of the film.JAMES of The Force Awakens (2016) return for Katharine Graham, the publisher of the are members of a San Francisco-area FRANCO, 39, directed Artist and plays an epic adventure. The late CARRIE Post (Graham’s father was Jewish, but synagogue. Wiseau. His brother, DAVE FRANCO, FISHER (Princess Laia) makes her she was raised in her mother’s Chris- Molly’s Game, directed and written 32, plays Sestero. Appearing in major final screen appearance in this film. tian faith). Tom Hanks plays Post chief by AARON SORKIN, 56, is based on supporting roles are SETH ROGEN, Father Figures focuses on fraternal editor Ben Bradlee. Appearing in big the real experiences of Molly Bloom, 35, ALISON BRIE, 34 (Dave Franco’s twin brothers (Owen Wilson, Ed Helms) supporting roles are ALISON BRIE now 39. When she was 26, she became wife), and ARI GRAYNOR, 34 (I’m whose eccentric mother (Glenn Close) as Lally, Graham’s journalist daughter, the target of an FBI investigation be- Dying up Here on HBO). (Opens Friday, raised them to believe their father died and DAVID CROSS, 53, as top Post cause she ran an underground poker December 1) when they were young. When they reporter Phil Gayelin. The film was di- empire for Hollywood celebs, pro ath- Director/writer JASON MOSHE, discover this is a lie, they set out to rected by STEVEN SPIELBERG, 70, letes and the Russian mob. Bloom, who 40, loves Westerns, although many say find their father and, along the way, and co-written by JOSH SINGER, 44 is the daughter of a Jewish father and a it’s a dying genre. His 2013 film,Dead they learn a lot about their mother, (co-winner of the screenplay Oscar for non-Jewish mother, is played by Jessica Man’s Burden, is one of the very few too. The supporting cast includes Spotlight). (Opens in limited release on Chastain. Her father, played by Kevin good original Westerns made in this Oscar-nominee JUNE SQUIBB, 87, Friday, December 22; wide release on Costner, is a major character in the film. century. His new film, The Ballad of and HARRY SHEARER, 73. This Friday, January 12). I know Molly’s brother, Jeremy Bloom, Lefty Brown, also a Western, opens film marks the directing debut of

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ROBBSTUCKY.COM • NAPLES • FORT MYERS • SARASOTA 12777 State Road 82 L’CHAYIM is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, CORAL GABLES • BOCA RATON Fort Myers, FL 33967 (239) 334-4880 committed advertisers and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 14 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Moroccan Donuts – “Sfenj” – recipe by Dalia Hemed Two different approaches to Chanukah music: hanukah is the holiday of the brilliant idea to coat them with cin- two minutes. Add the salt and mix lights, miracles and donuts! namon mixed with sugar, which for exactly 2 minutes. The dough The Yeshiva Boys Choir and Y-Studs! CEvery year for Chanukah, I made them taste like churros. My kids should be very soft, so don’t be make the classic jelly donuts – sufgani- suggested to drizzle them with maple tempted to add more flour! wo very different groups have yot (in Hebrew) like we eat in Israel. syrup or honey, which make them kid XX Put the dough into a bigger bowl come to my attention recently, This year, though, I decided to go back friendly. You can also simply eat them and cover with plastic wrap. Let just in time for Chanukah: The to my roots, and to celebrate Chanukah with jam. No matter what, they’re the dough rise until it doubles in T Yeshiva Boys Choir and Y-Studs. like I did growing up with my Moroc- so good and probably my favorite Cha- size – about 2 hours. Both groups have recorded Chanukah can family in Israel, and make “sfenj,” nukah fried food in the entire world. XX Use a wooden spoon dipped in oil music that is creative, innovative and traditional Moroccan donuts. to mix the dough for 1 minute, and vibrant. Accord- In Israel, the tradition of eating then cover again with the plastic ing to the Milken fried foods on Chanukah has come to wrap until the dough doubles in Archive of Jew- mean doughnuts above all else – par- size again – about 30 minutes. ish Music, their ticularly sufganiyot. There, the jelly- XX Put enough oil for deep frying in works and record- filled doughnuts trump the potato your biggest frying pan (about 3″ ings of countless latkes favored by American Jews, and deep) and turn the heat on medium other contem- spill out of every bakery window in the high. (To check if the oil is at the porary Jewish weeks leading up to the holiday. But right temperature, put a small piece Personal Chef Dalia Hemed composers, that I for Moroccan Jews, sfenj are the Cha- of carrot in the pan. You should see can be reached at will write about nukah doughnut of choice. bubbles. If there are no bubbles [email protected]. Arlene Stolnitz in the future, are For Moroccan Jews in Israel they around the carrot, then the oil is important in preserving the legacy of are primarily Chanukah fare and they not hot enough. If the carrot turns XX While the sfenj are frying, placeAmerican-Jewish music and culture for are commonly made at home during Ingredients: brown in less than 15 seconds, then a paper towel on a large flat plate.future generations. the eight nights of the holiday. Sfenj • 7½ cups all-purpose flour the oil is too hot.) When the sfenj are done on both You may have heard of the re- are also found next to sufganiyot in • 1.8 oz yeast XX When you’re ready to fry, dip your sides, remove them from the pan nowned Yeshiva Boys Choir, which bakeries. • 1/4 cups sugar hands in oil, then grab some dough and place on the paper towel, andhas achieved fame in the last 14 years. The dough is made with yeast and • 3⅓ cups (800 ml) lukewarm water with one hand, pull it up, and with start frying your second batch. Traveling worldwide to countries such fairly easy to make, but it is very soft • 3 teaspoons salt the other hand, pinch off a handful- XX While you wait for the secondas England, Canada and Israel, as well and sticky, so you must work quickly. • 1 cup canola oil in a small bowl – sized piece. Hold the dough with batch to cook, coat the ones that as performing across the U.S., they have The great thing and the bad thing for dipping hands while working two hands, and punch a hole in the are done with the sugar. Let themexcited audiences with their renditions about these yummy pastries is that with the dough middle of it with your fingers. (It cool for a few minutes – they areof age-old favorites and new composi- they’re fluffy and light, much lighter • Canola oil for deep frying sounds complicated but it’s really best when fresh and warm! tions. Based in New York City, the group and fluffier than traditional sufganiyot. • A plate or bowl with raw cane sug- easy and fun.) Stretch the dough a is led by conductor and choreographer And the best part: they are so delicious! ar for sprinkling (cinnamon op- bit to create a ring, and then gently Look for Yossi Newman, a former third-grade Happy Chanukah! tional), maple syrup or honey place it in the pan. Fill the pan with Chef Dalia Hemed’s teacher from Cleveland, Ohio. Together Chef tip: Directions: as many rings as you can fit. with his childhood friend, Eli Gerstner, Before you start, you should know that XX Sift the flour into an electric mixer XX Cook until the bottom of the sfenj recipes each month who composes and arranges the catchy the dough needs one and half or two bowl with the dough hook. Add is golden brown, then flip them in the pages of compositions, they have created a choir hours to rise. the yeast, sugar and water, and with a metal spatula – about 2 min- of nearly 50 talented young members. Optional: My husband came up with turn on the mixer on low speed for utes each side. L’CHAYIM. And what a choir it is! One cannot listen to their music without jumping up from your seat! The Rosé revisited group is spirited, fun and, most of all, By The Wine Whisperer original in their approach to their songs. very once in a while, it’s a good As I’ve mentioned in the past, you styles from the south of France (espe- Raimat Castell de Raimat RoséTheir album “YBC 5: Chanukah” con- idea to take another look at a can make rosé wines in two different cially Tavel and Lirac) or other types 2015 ($12) – This blend of 75% Cab-tains many familiar and not-so-familiar wine or a grape varietal that ways. It’s perfectly legitimate to sim- from California, Washington State or ernet and 30% Tempranillo deliverstunes. Especially, you will want to hear E “Daddy Come Home,” a tribute to all we’ve discussed in the past. Some- ply mix some red and white together, even South America. spicy cherry aromas with overtones of times it’s because the wine somehow which is how many of them are cre- The examples below offer a very smoke. The palate is a pleasing mix ofthe daddies who serve in war. Listen- went out of fash- ated. Or, if you do it the classier and satisfying range of styles. Sample strawberry and blueberry notes, a littleing to its emotionally charged plea will ion and then more expensive way, you crush red widely! bit of spice and a sweetish finish. Servebring tears to your eyes. Anyone who came back. They grapes, leave the juice on the skins Villa Gemma Cerasuolo well chilled. We liked it. WW 88-89 has had a father who served in a war do that. Other until the liquid achieves the color you d’Abruzzo Rosé ($15) – The darkest Fel Pinot Noir Anderson Valley times new types want, then drain it off. color of all the rosés we sampled… 2015 ($38) – A light-than-usual garnet or styles of a par- Plus, rosés can be made from just deep cranberry with a nose that ful- color with aromas of blackberry and ticular wine are about any red varietal. In Tavel in fills the promise of the color. Profound pronounced raspberry. Soft and light- developed and southern France, many are made from cherry notes and an explosion of fruit bodied on the palate: spice, cedar and find their way to Grenache and Syrah, which are the on the palate. The grape is Negroama- strawberry. WW 89  Jerry the market. And major grapes in the region. One of the ro, and it’s extremely full-bodied for a Jerry Greenfield is The Wine Whisper- Greenfield then there’s the samples in the list below is made pri- rosé. Serve well chilled and enjoy. WW er. He is Creative Director of Green- seasonal situation: we generally write marily from Cabernet. But we’ve sam- 89-90 field Advertising Group, and Wine about and review wines that are suit- pled others made from Zinfandel and Frescobaldi Alie Rosé Ammira- Director of the international Direct able for the weather and time of year. even Pinot Noir. glia 2016 ($22) – Lovely light pink Cellars wine club, His book, Secrets of Personally, I’ve never quite be- Since these wines come in such a color with flower peach aromas. Plenty the Wine Whisperer, is now available lieved that we HAVE to drink ONLY wide variety of styles, you’re sure to of refreshing strawberry and raspberry through his website. Read his other whites in the summer, and ONLY full- find one that’s light enough or full- flavors. Refreshing any time. WW 86 writings at www.winewhisperer.com. bodied reds during cooler seasons. But, bodied enough, or dry or sweet enough having sampled widely and with great to accompany almost any kind of food dedication, I’ve arrived at a conclusion and any type of occasion. And, since ID about rosé. It’s this: these wines are ex- excellent rosés are made all over the cellent choices pretty much whenever. world, you can choose the traditional newspapers don’t fly… however your STAY IN TOUCH address will Sign up for e-blasts!

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end address changes to loriraosfedlcc.org lcc.org a@jfed or call .. et ypadill l to am n emai SenSendd a an email to afe ravels [email protected] L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 15 Two different approaches to Chanukah music: The Yeshiva Boys Choir and Y-Studs! By Arlene Stolnitz wo very different groups have (my dad served in WWII) and every- August 1944 to February 1946. The the Jewish Congregation of Venice. A come to my attention recently, one else will be moved by its powerful facility was later officially closed in retired educator from Rochester, New Tjust in time for Chanukah: The message. “Those Were the Nights” is a December 1946. By then, the refugees York, she has sung in choral groups for Yeshiva Boys Choir and Y-Studs. light-hearted look at the holiday in past had all left to start new lives; some over 25 years and also sings in Venice’s Both groups have recorded Chanukah years, bringing back pleasant memories. staying in the United States, and others Chorale (formerly Exsultate!). Her music that is creative, innovative and It is filled with fun-filled antics, and returning to Europe. interest in choral music has led to this vibrant. Accord- showcases the talents of its remarkable Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sara- series of articles on Jewish folk music ing to the Milken young singers. The Yeshiva Boys Choir sota Jewish Chorale, is a member of in the Diaspora. Archive of Jew- has many other outstanding albums that ish Music, their they sing on their sold-out worldwide JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA works and record- tours. 2018 SPONSORSHIP FORM ings of countless A very different kind of group, other contem- older, yet youthful, and also Yeshiva BE A “REEL” SUPPORTER porary Jewish students, is known as the Y-Studs. A

composers, that I Jewish a cappella group, they are an Executive Producer: SOLD Advanced Pain Management & Spine Specialists will write about elite all-male group from Yeshiva Uni- Arlene Stolnitz in the future, are versity based in New York City. The ___ Producer: $1500 important in preserving the legacy of 15-member group was formed in 2010  Listed as the “PRODUCER” of one film of your choice; introduce the film for that evening XX While the sfenj are frying, placeAmerican-Jewish music and culture for by singers from the school who wanted  Receive 6 tickets to each film and 6 reserved“ PRODUCER” seats at each film a paper towel on a large flat plate.future generations. to get together as a singing ensemble.  Be recognized as a sponsor in ads and festival program

When the sfenj are done on both You may have heard of the re- They are immensely popular and have ___ Director: $1000 sides, remove them from the pan nowned Yeshiva Boys Choir, which produced CDs and music videos, and  Receive 4 tickets to each film and 4 reserved“ DIRECTOR” seats at each film and place on the paper towel, andhas achieved fame in the last 14 years. are available for weddings and bar mitz-  Be recognized as a sponsor in ads and festival program start frying your second batch. Traveling worldwide to countries such vahs. They have traveled internationally XX While you wait for the second ___ Screenwriter: $550 as England, Canada and Israel, as well with their program.  batch to cook, coat the ones that Receive 2 tickets to each film and 2 reserved seats at each film as performing across the U.S., they have Of special interest is their CD/video  Be recognized as a sponsor in ads and festival program are done with the sugar. Let themexcited audiences with their renditions entitled, “Evolution of Jewish Music,” ___ Film Star $300 cool for a few minutes – they areof age-old favorites and new composi- in which the group sings mini-clips of best when fresh and warm!  Receive 2 tickets to each film tions. Based in New York City, the group Jewish music chronologically through  Be recognized as a sponsor in ads and festival program is led by conductor and choreographer the centuries. It is literally a history of Look for Yossi Newman, a former third-grade Jewish music throughout the ages. ___ Festival Friend $100 Chef Dalia Hemed’s teacher from Cleveland, Ohio. Together Two Chanukah videos stand out  Be recognized in the festival program

with his childhood friend, Eli Gerstner, in their repertoire: “A One Direction recipes each month Please print your name as you would like it to appear in ads and in the festival program: who composes and arranges the catchy Hanukkah -Epic Parody Mashup!” and in the pages of compositions, they have created a choir “Don’t Let Me Down.” Both songs Name: ______of nearly 50 talented young members. are not your standard Chanukah-type L’CHAYIM. ______And what a choir it is! tunes that we usually associate with the One cannot listen to their music holiday. Instead, they will appeal espe- Address: ______City: ______State: ______Zip: ______

without jumping up from your seat! The cially to the younger “hip” generation Phone: ______Email: ______Rosé revisited group is spirited, fun and, most of all, with their fun-filled outrageous antics Payment: ____ credit card _____ check enclosed ____ bill me original in their approach to their songs. and catchy tunes. Plus, these guys are

Raimat Castell de Raimat RoséTheir album “YBC 5: Chanukah” con- so handsome and cute, even the older Card number: ______Expiration date: ______tains many familiar and not-so-familiar generation can’t help love them! Their Print name on card: ______2015 ($12) – This blend of 75% Cab- ernet and 30% Tempranillo deliverstunes. Especially, you will want to hear videos can be seen on YouTube and are Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties 9701 Commerce Center Ct. Fort Myers 33908 spicy cherry aromas with overtones of“Daddy Come Home,” a tribute to all just plain fun! smoke. The palate is a pleasing mix ofthe daddies who serve in war. Listen- * * * strawberry and blueberry notes, a littleing to its emotionally charged plea will A correction to last month’s article: bit of spice and a sweetish finish. Servebring tears to your eyes. Anyone who The refugees at Safe Haven in Oswego, well chilled. We liked it. WW 88-89 has had a father who served in a war New York, were housed there from Fel Pinot Noir Anderson Valley 2015 ($38) – A light-than-usual garnet color with aromas of blackberry andGifts – literal, intangible pronounced raspberry. Soft and light- bodied on the palate: spice, cedar andand otherwise strawberry. WW 89 By Jodi Cohen Jerry Greenfield is The Wine Whisper- bout 18 years ago, I was the one night ended up lasting for eight er. He is Creative Director of Green- newsletter editor for my con- nights, which was a miracle. Chanukah field Advertising Group, and AWine gregation in Madison, Wiscon- is a celebration of that miracle and has Director of the international Directsin. One day when the rabbi came over come to include eating latkes, spinning Cellars wine club, His book, Secrets of to drop off an article, I asked him what dreidels and exchanging gifts. Speak- the Wine Whisperer, is now availablehe did all day. His list was long and I ing of gifts, the gift of listening is al- through his website. Read his other noticed there was no mention of him ways appreciated; the gift of paying writings at www.winewhisperer.com. sitting in his study stroking his imagi- attention is always timely. nary beard while studying Talmud. His In my role as Senior Outreach wife was a therapist, and between their Coordinator at the Federation, I meet jobs and parenting their adorable two- wonderful, interesting people who ei- year-old daughter, there was not a lot ther don’t have family, or any local of time to do much else, or many funds family, who would love to visit, share to hire a babysitter. I offered to spend their stories, and hear some of yours. time with the rabbi’s daughter one eve- The shortest distance between two ning a week so the rabbi could study, hearts is a story. go to Target, or return books to the li- There’s a wonderful opportunity brary. It was an opportunity for a triple to connect with some of the seniors in mitzvah, a good deed! I could bond our area this month with the delivery Sunday, December 17, 7PM with a delicious two-year-old, the rabbi of the Chanukah bags prepared by Fed- could spend time with his wife, and the eration volunteers. Bags can be picked Tickets From $29 community would benefit greatly from up between 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. start- Celebrate the spirit of the season with this annual holiday tradition! The evening having a happier rabbi. This arrange- ing Sunday, December 3, or during the starts with strolling carolers and our MusicWorks! chamber ensemble performing ment went on for a year. The daughter following week. It’s simple: Contact in the lobby. The concert includes holiday favorites performed by the Gulf Coast is now 20 and still delicious. The rabbi Leni Sack, Education & Program Di- Symphony, Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers, and soloist Mark Sanders, with is a brilliant leader of a Jewish com- rector, and let her know you’re inter- Irish dancing by the Kellyn Irish Dancers. We will light the Menorah, and have a munity in Denver, and the wife of the ested in delivering one or more bags, special performance by Cantorial Soloist Lawrence Dermer. rabbi is still my best friend. and she will give you names and con- Over the years, my holiday gifts tact information. Leni can be reached

have included coupons for friends with at 239.481.4449 x3 or lenibsack@ kids that read, “This coupon is good for jfedlcc.org. one night of childcare.” I have given If you’d like to visit with anyone coupons to friends of all ages that read, during any time of the year, it would be Don’t Miss The Nutcracker with Gulfshore Ballet on Dec 2! “This coupon is good for one adven- my pleasure to play matchmaker. You ture of your choosing.” can contact me at 239.481.4449 x6 or Go to GulfCoastSymphony.org for details. We are in the thick of the holiday [email protected]. season and so the carousel of life revs Chag Sameach, Happy Holidays. up a little faster than usual. During May your light shine within you as TICKETS: 239.481.4849 • GulfCoastSymphony.org Chanukah we tell the story of how the well as all around you. And may you SYMPHONY OFFICE: 239.277.1700 oil that was supposed to last for only share your light with others. L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 16 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL The Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties Presents the 22nd Annual Jewish Film Festival of Southwest Florida All films will be screened at the Regal Belltower Stadium 20. Open seating at all films for general admission tickets. Tickets will be mailed up to December 31. Tickets ordered after December 31 will be available after 6:00 p.m. inside the theater on the day of the show. Thursday, January 11 at 7:15 p.m. Sponsorship ON THE MAP opportunities are On the Map tells the against-all-odds story of Maccabi Tel Aviv’s 1977 European Championship, which took place at a time when the Middle East was available that include still reeling from the 1973 Yom Kippur War, the 1972 Olympic Massacre at Munich, and the 1976 hijacking of an Air France flight from Tel Aviv. Through reserved seating. See the lens of sports, On the Map presents a much broader story of how one team captured the heart of a nation amid domestic turmoil and the global machina- the form on page 15. tions of the Cold War. As one of the players famously said, “Israel is now on the map, not just in sport, but in everything.” Language: English Running Time: 1 hr. 25 min. Thank You to these Sponsors of the Jewish Film Festival: Tuesday, January 16 at 7:15 p.m. Principal Sponsor THE INVISIBLES Berlin, February 1943: The Nazi regime declares the Reich’s capital “free of Jews.” At this point in time, 7,000 Jews have succeeded in going underground. Almost 1,700 will survive the horrors of the war in Berlin. The Invisibles tells the stories of four young Jews who survive by living so recklessly, they become “invisible.” The dramatic reenactments are supplemented with impressive interviews with the actual people whose lives inspired this film. The two levels blend together into an intensive, emotionally moving film. Language: German w/English subtitles Running Time: 1 hr. 50 min.

Thursday, January 18 at 7:15 p.m.

SHELTER Dr. Brian and Sara Krivisky Naomi Rimon, a Mossad agent, is sent on an easy mission: to protect Mona, a Lebanese collaborator, in a safe house in Hamburg, Germany, for two weeks. But there are no easy missions in this world, certainly not in the world of espionage and intrigue. No one saw what was coming. No one knew that this supposedly quiet “shelter” would turn dangerous and that a new shelter would need to be found. In this game of deception, beliefs are questioned and choices are made that are not their own. And yet their fate takes a surprising turn in this Martha & John Wolf thriller. Language: English, Hebrew, Arabic w/English subtitles Running Time: 1 hr. 33 min.

Tuesday, January 23 at 7:15 p.m. Helene & Jorge Glocer Double Feature Lin & Ron Klein Barbara & Barry Linda & Charles Idelson TALIA Epstein Talia is a young woman with Asperger’s high-functioning autism. She has dis- Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist covered a passion for acting and filmmaking. This documentary follows Talia Sylvia & Paul of Florida on her journey to learning her craft as an actress, as well as developing her Simko Howard N. Barrow, MD communication skills for life. Rozzi Osterman, co-president of the Jewish Reeva & Ian Federation and an award-winning documentary filmmaker, wrote and directed Shaffer this film. There will be a Q & A with Rozzi after the film. Cheryl & Michael Language: English Running Time: 26 min. Goldstein Marsha & Mike DREAMING OF A JEWISH Kistler Judi & Richard H. CHRISTMAS Davis Dreaming of a Jewish Christmas is an offbeat, irreverent musical documentary that tells the story of a group of Jewish songwriters, including Mel Torme and Linda Shuster Irving Berlin, who wrote the soundtrack to Christianity’s most musical holiday. Shirley & Byron It’s an amazing tale of immigrant outsiders who became irreplaceable players Frank in pop culture’s mainstream. Harriet & Alan Language: English Running Time: 50 min. Josephson L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 17

Thursday, January 25 at 7:15 p.m. COMEDY ROAD A young Jewish comedian from L.A. implored, cajoled and encouraged his professional colleagues of all faiths to join him on a comedy tour in Israel. They came to a country many of them had never thought about visiting and put themselves out on stage in front of an audience that might or might not get their comedy, and that might or might not be in the midst of a war or a wave of terrorism. Comedy Row shows what it was like for them to perform, how they got along, the sights they saw, and the effect that Israel had on them. Language: English Running Time: 1 hr. 16 min. Tuesday, January 30 at 7:15 p.m. LOVE IS THICKER THAN WATER When Arthur, a poor Welsh student, meets Vida, a wealthy Jewish cellist, The Jewish Federation of sparks fly. As these two rush headlong into a relationship, their bond is soon tested when the fates of their two vastly different families converge. The movie Lee and Charlotte Counties explores the ups and downs of a young couple in contemporary London. Reli- thanks the members of the gion and class definitely collide in this whimsical upstairs-downstairs modern day Romeo and Juliet love story. 2018 Jewish Film Festival Language: English Running Time: 1 hr. 41 min. Committee for their help in reviewing and selecting films: Thursday, February 1 at 7:15 p.m. Sara Krivisky, Chair THE TESTAMENT Carolyn Gora, Lynn Talone, Yoel, a senior Holocaust researcher, is in the middle of a widely covered legal battle with powerful forces in Austria, concerning a brutal massacre of Jews that Helene Glocer, Irwin Kash took place toward the end of WWII in an Austrian village. While investigating the incident, Yoel examines classified testimonies of Holocaust survivors, and Jan Klein, Elissa Grossman to his shock and surprise finds a testimony given by his mother, a testimony Claire Goldhagen, Susie Ferkel he didn’t know existed. In it, she confesses to a substantial secret from her past. Yoel, who’s conducting a double-investigation, personal and scientific, is trapped between walls of silence – on one side denial of the Holocaust, and on the other, his mother’s silence regarding her past. Language: Hebrew, German, English, Yiddish w/English subtitles Running Time: 1 hr. 33 min. ORDER FORM Indicate your choices on the form below Tuesday, February 6 at 7:15 p.m. and send it along with your payment to: AN ACT OF DEFIANCE The Jewish Federation In this riveting historical drama, ten political activists, including Nelson Man- dela and his inner circle of Black and Jewish supporters, face a possible death 9701 Commerce Center Court sentence for conspiracy to commit sabotage after they are arrested by the apart- Fort Myers, FL 33908 heid South African government during a raid in the town of Rivonia during the summer of 1963. Bram Fischer, a sympathetic lawyer, risks his career and Questions? Call 239.481.4449 x3 freedom to defend these men, attempting to hide the fact that he, too, frequently convened on the farm where they were arrested. or email [email protected]. Language: English, Afrikaans w/ English subtitles Running Time: 2 hr. 4 min. Name______Address______City______ST____ Zip______Phone______Thursday, February 8 at 7:15 p.m. Email______RESTORING TOMORROW Tickets will be mailed up to December 31. In these divided times, religious institutions are losing young members and Tickets ordered after December 31 will be even closing their doors at an alarming rate. Director Aaron Wolf’s personal available after 6:00 p.m. inside the theater journey of rediscovery comes alive in Restoring Tomorrow, a universal story the day of the show. of hope, as a treasured local temple near demise is lifted up by a community’s determination to achieve the impossible. Wolf’s journey explores how when No refunds on tickets. any community puts its mind to it, the impossible becomes possible. Wilshire Boulevard Temple, a Los Angeles treasure built by the original Hollywood OPEN SEATING AT ALL FILMS moguls, needs to raise millions to restore its majesty and vibrancy, thus also restoring the future of the Jewish community, the greater Los Angeles commu- SERIES OF EVENING FILMS: $108 nity and, on a personal level, Wolf himself. INDIVIDUAL FILMS: $12 each Language: English Running Time: 1 hr. 22 min. Indicate # of tickets desired for each film: _____ Series Ticket...... (all films) _____ On the Map...... 1/11/18 Tuesday, February 13 at 7:15 p.m. _____ The Invisibles...... 1/16/18 I’VE GOT TO BE ME _____ Shelter...... 1/18/18 Sammy Davis, Jr.: I’ve Got to Be Me is the first major film documentary to _____ Double Feature...... 1/23/18 examine Davis’s vast talent and his journey for identity through the shifting _____ Comedy Road...... 1/25/18 th tides of civil rights and racial progress during 20 century America. Sammy _____ Love is Thicker than Water.....1/30/18 strove to achieve the American Dream in a time of racial prejudice and shifting politics. He was the veteran of increasingly outdated show business traditions _____ The Testament...... 2/1/18 trying to stay relevant; he frequently found himself bracketed by the bigotry of _____ An Act of Defiance...... 2/6/18 white America and the distaste of black America; he was the most public figure _____ Restoring Tomorrow...... 2/8/18 to embrace Judaism, thereby sealing his identity to another persecuted minor- ity. The documentary features interviews with stars like Billy Crystal, Norman _____ I’ve Got to be Me...... 2/13/18 Lear, Jerry Lewis, Whoopi Goldberg and Kim Novak. Language: English Running Time: 1 hr. 40 min. _____ Total Due r Check payable to Jewish Federation enclosed Charge: r MasterCard r Visa r Amex r Discover JOIN US FOR A “REEL” Name on card______Card#______GOOD TIME! Exp. Date______L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 18 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST ADL Audit: Florida sees dramatic increase in anti-Semitic vandalism oca Raton, Florida, November 2, law enforcement, including incidents Harassment, Threats and Events student’s arm. 2017 … According to the Anti- of vandalism, assault and harassment The ADL Audit recorded 50 cases of ‹‹ Broward County: A business was BDefamation League’s (ADL) targeting Jewish individuals and institu- anti-Semitic harassment in Florida in given an online review as a ‘Jew- annual Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents tions. the first three quarters of 2017. run business.’ released today, there were 69 verified The counties with the highest num- Incidents included verbal attacks ‹‹ Palm Beach County: An employee incidents of anti-Semitism in Florida in ber of reported incidents were Miami- and slurs against Jewish individuals of a Holocaust-related organization the first three quarters of 2017. While Dade with 17, Palm Beach with 16, and (or individuals perceived to be Jewish); received a phone call, with the caller this trend marks a decrease of incidents Orange with 9. In total, incidents were anti-Semitism conveyed in written or saying, “Those Jews deserved it.” in comparison to the 85 verified inci- reported in 16 of Florida’s 67 counties. electronic communications, including Anti-Semitic Assaults dents in the first three quarters of 2016, A significantly disturbing trend has anti-Semitic cyberbullying; and anti- Two anti-Semitic assaults occurred in the finding that there has been a 200% been an increase in the use of swastikas Semitic speeches, picketing or events. Florida in 2017, up from a single assault increase in anti-Semitic vandalism and Holocaust-related imagery and ref- Of particular note was the prevalence in the previous year. should be cause for concern. erences in anti-Semitic vandalism and of the use of the swastika symbol in a Selected incident: Nationally, anti-Semitic incidents harassment. significant number of harassment cases. ‹‹ Palm Beach: A man from Jupiter, rose to 1,299 – a 67% increase from the Anti-Semitic Vandalism Florida Jewish institutions received claiming to be ‘German royalty,’ same time period in 2016. In addition to The following is a list of selected in- 21 bomb threats this year. As the arrests pushed a woman and made anti- the significant bump in the first quarter stances of anti-Semitic vandalism in the that have been made in these bomb Semitic remarks, including, “You of the year, there was also a notable in- first three quarters 2017: threats reveal, many anti-Semitic inci- Jews and blacks should just get crease after the “Unite the Right” rally ‹‹ Escambia County: Swastikas and dents were not carried out by organized over Hitler.” in Charlottesville, Virginia, in August. racist graffiti, including ‘14-88,’ extremists. About the ADL Audit From January through September 30, were spray-painted on homes and The following is a list of selected The ADL Audit includes both criminal according to ADL, there were: cars. 14 refers to one of the most instances of anti-Semitic harassment, and non-criminal acts of harassment ‹‹ 702 incidents of harassment, includ- widely-used white supremacist threats and events in the first three and intimidation, including distribution ing 162 bomb threats against Jewish slogans, ‘The 14 Words: “We must quarters of 2017: of hate propaganda, threats and slurs. institutions secure the existence of our people ‹‹ Miami-Dade County: For Valen- Compiled using information provided ‹‹ 585 incidents of vandalism, includ- and a future for white children.” As tine’s Day, a student disseminated by victims, law enforcement and com- ing 52 against Jewish institutions ‘H’ is the 8th letter of the alphabet, Valentine’s Day cards with the munity leaders, and evaluated by ADL’s ‹‹ 12 physical assaults 88 is used by white supremacists phrase ‘Would Jew Be Mein?’ and professional staff, the Audit provides a “We are seeing a disturbing escala- to refer to the phrase ‘Heil Hitler.’ an image of Adolf Hitler. regular snapshot of one specific aspect tion, where anti-Semitic rhetoric and ‹‹ Boca Raton: An individual awoke to ‹‹ Southern Palm Beach County: A of a nationwide problem while identi- expressions have progressed into acts of find a swastika painted on his garage Jewish institution received sev- fying possible trends or changes in the vandalism, as highlighted in the audit’s door, allegedly by a neighbor. eral faxes with anti-Semitic com- types of activity reported. This infor- findings. This is a sobering reminder ‹‹ Boca Raton: Parents became ex- ponents, including one that read mation assists ADL in developing and that we must be vigilant in educating tremely concerned as images of “…we gonna purge the Jews 1488.” enhancing its programs to counter and and speaking out in the face of hate,” swastikas etched into the door of ‹‹ Pinellas County: A Jewish student prevent the spread of anti-Semitism and said Sheri Zvi, ADL Florida Regional a school bathroom stall at Omni was subjected to having pennies other forms of bigotry. Director. Middle School went viral online. thrown at him, and was belittled The Anti-Defamation League, Florida continues to be in the Immediately, ADL reached out to the with Holocaust jokes. Holocaust- founded in 1913, is the world’s leading top states reporting incidents of anti- school to avail them of our resources. themed memes were also dissemi- organization fighting anti-Semitism Semitism, with New York, California The school district mandated that nated at the school. Additionally, through programs and services that and Massachusetts reporting higher all students (1,400) participate in a classmate drew a swastika and counteract hatred, prejudice and big- incidents. The ADL Audit comprises an ADL-led conversation about a number, similar to those which otry. Follow us on Twitter: @ADL_ criminal and non-criminal incidents identity-based bias and the anti- were tattooed by Nazis on con- Florida and Facebook at www.facebook. reported to the ADL Florida office and Semitic history of the swastika. centration camp prisoners, on the com/ADL.Florida.

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Gala raising record $35m+ for Israeli soldiers ew York, Oct. 24 – A select “I’ve flown 10 sorties in the F-35, New York. delegation from the Friends and it is a game changer for the Israeli “Since its founding, Israel has Nof the Israel Defense Forces Air Force – not just because of its capa- fought for its right to exist as a free na- (FIDF) Greater Miami Region attended bilities, but because it will elevate and tion and guarantee the security and pros- the FIDF National N.Y. Gala Dinner at strengthen the entire IDF,” said Eshel perity of its people. This freedom and the New York Hilton Midtown, raising at the gala. safety relies first and foremost on the a record $35 million to support edu- Distinguished guests included Fox existence of a strong and moral army,” FIDF National Vice President Marc cational and well-being programs for Business Network anchor Liz Claman, said Maj. Gen. (Res.) Klifi-Amir. “At Perlman each pledged $1 million, and the brave soldiers of the Israel Defense who presided as master of ceremonies; this ‘Night of Heroes,’ we salute the men the Iranian American Jewish Federation Forces (IDF). FIDF National Chairman Arthur Stark; and women soldiers who have taken pledged $600,000. The “Night of Heroes” saluted the FIDF National President Rabbi Peter part in the ongoing struggle of the State Funds raised at the gala will pro- brave soldiers and veterans from all of Weintraub; FIDF National Director and of Israel. Each and every one of them vide much-needed and well-deserved Israel’s military operations and historic CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Meir Klifi-Amir; is another link in the chain of the IDF services such as academic scholarships wars. and FIDF Tri-State Executive Director heroism and the Jewish state, as they to combat veterans, financial assistance Among the Miami delegation mem- Galit Brichta. continue to serve today – L’dor Va’dor for soldiers in-need, support for Lone bers were FIDF National Board Member The evening held a special com- (from generation to generation) – and Soldiers throughout their service and and Miami Executive Board Member memoration of the 50th anniversary of we all owe them our deepest gratitude. upon release, crucial aid for wounded Dr. Shmuel Katz and his daughter, Eliza- the Six-Day War led by legendary IAF While their job is to look after Israel, veterans and the families of fallen sol- beth; FIDF supporter Albert Taran; and test pilot Danny Shapira, who was one our job is to look after them.” diers, weeks of rest and recuperation for FIDF Greater Miami Region Executive of the very first to fly over Israel and FIDF’s flagship national event was entire IDF units, as well as educational, Director Dina Ben Ari. served in most of its wars. chaired by FIDF National President cultural and recreational facilities. The Honored guests included Perma- Also speaking was Amir Ofer, a Rabbi Peter Weintraub. A Reform evening presented a rare and exclusive nent Representative of Israel to the hero of Operation Entebbe, the famous rabbi and businessman, Weintraub has opportunity to pay tribute to the State United Nations Amb. Danny Danon; Israeli rescue mission at Uganda’s En- been an avid FIDF supporter for over of Israel and its brave men and women Consul General of Israel in New York tebbe Airport in 1976 that saved 102 16 years and has sponsored academic in uniform. scholarships for more than 85 IDF com- About Friends of the Israel Defense bat veterans through FIDF’s IMPACT! Forces (FIDF): Scholarship Program. FIDF was established in 1981 by a “The heroic men and women of the group of Holocaust survivors as a 501(c) IDF put their lives on the line every day (3) not-for-profit organization with to defend the Jewish state and protect the mission of offering educational, Jews everywhere,” said Weintraub. cultural, recreational and social pro- “Tonight’s gala honors their sacrifices, grams and facilities that provide hope, celebrates their victories, and affords us purpose and life-changing support for the opportunity to personally thank them the soldiers who protect Israel and Jews for all that they do in service to Israel worldwide. Today, FIDF has more than and the Jewish people.” 150,000 loyal supporters, and 20 chap- Notable among the donations was a ters throughout the United States and $7 million gift pledged by Dr. Miriam Panama. FIDF proudly supports IDF and Sheldon G. Adelson, who continued soldiers, families of fallen soldiers, and

Israeli soldiers with Outgoing Israeli Air Force (IAF) chief Maj. Gen. Amir Eshel; their generous support for FIDF. Or wounded veterans through a variety of FIDF Greater Miami Region Executive Director Dina Ben Ari; FIDF supporter Albert Taran; FIDF National Lachayal pledged $2 million and FIDF innovative programs that reinforce the President Rabbi Peter Weintraub; FIDF National Director and CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Meir Klifi-Amir Young Leadership New York pledged vital bond between the communities in Dani Dayan; and business magnates, hijacked Air France passengers who $1.5 million. A number of anonymous the United States, the soldiers of the philanthropists and steadfast support- were held hostage by terrorists. Ofer, donors pledged more than $1 million IDF, and the State of Israel. For more ers of Israel, Dr. Miriam and Sheldon who was then a soldier in the IDF’s each. Genesis Philanthropy Group, information, visit www.fidf.org. G. Adelson. most elite special operations unit, was Masa Yisraeli, Nefesh B’Nefesh, and Speaking at the gala was outgoing the first Israeli commando to enter the Israeli Air Force (IAF) chief Maj. Gen. Entebbe Airport terminal, where he Amir Eshel, who commanded the forces used a megaphone to tell the hostages, protecting Israel’s skies for five years “Stay down! Stay down! We are Israeli BRIEFS and oversaw the recent acquisition of soldiers!” the new F-35 fighter jets – the most Special guests included 25 IDF IRON DOME MOVES ISRAEL WINS 8 MEDALS advanced warplane in the region – from soldiers and officers from several NORTH AT EUROPEAN the United States. military units and the IDF Orchestra, In response to the likely threat from PARALYMPIC YOUTH including one of the IAF’s Iranian forces in Lebanon and Syria, few women combat flight GAMES Israel announced it was stationing a The Israeli team brought home three navigators, Capt. “N.”; battalion of its Iron Dome anti-rocket gold medals, two silver and three Maj. “G.,” who pilots one systems in northern Israel. bronze at the European Para Youth of the IAF’s new F-35 There is also a battalion assigned Games held in Liguria, Italy, on Oc- fighter jets; Sgt. Shira, a to southern Israel to defend against the tober 9-15, where it competed for the paramedic who has been rockets Hamas had amassed in Gaza. first time. treating wounded Syr- After Iran-backed Hizbullah Seven of the medals were won by ian refugees; and Israeli launched a major rocket attack in 2006 three swimmers and the eighth was in Navy Sgt. Matan, a “Lone and convinced Israel that Iron Dome bocce. Overall, Israel ranked 12th out of Soldier” – or one who im- was worth developing and deploying, 24 countries. (Abigail Klein Leichman, migrates to Israel with no the system was seen as an emergency Israel21c) The Miami delegation joined over 1,200 prominent FIDF leaders from immediate family in order across the U.S. and Israel for “A Night of Heroes,” celebrating soldiers weapon, to be kept in storage and mo- and veterans from all of Israel’s operations and wars to enlist in the IDF – origi- bilized for use in wartime. (photo credits: Shahar Azran) GROWING PEACE IN THE nally from Westchester, It has not worked out that way. MIDDLE EAST THROUGH (Strategy Page) OLIVE OIL Center for Judaic, Holocaust, BDS IS A DISMAL FAILURE Ayala Meir’s family owns a small ol- ive press in northern Israel. Khaled al- The anti-Israel boycott, divestment Juneidi is a Palestinian engineer and and Genocide Studies and sanctions (BDS) movement has olive oil expert. entered a critical downward spiral in Dedicated to educating all sectors of society about The two met four years ago through Canada. Jewish civilization, the Holocaust, and genocide through: the “Olive Oil Without Borders” proj- During the past two years, BDS has ect, funded by the U.S. government. • scholarship been forcefully rejected by students at Together, they have learned about pre- the University of Waterloo, University • outreach harvesting, parasite control, supple- of Toronto, McGill University, and the • inquiry mentary irrigation and quality control. University of British Columbia. In the past five years, USAID has • sharing knowledge Far from being anti-racist, BDS is helped more than 2,600 Israeli and Pal- • preserving the record the definition of racism. To boycott an estinian growers produce better olive • helping teachers entire nationality of people – including oil. (USAID) • encouraging students athletes, artists and professors – be- cause of political disagreements with MORE THAN HALF OF their government is clearly bigoted and counter-productive. ISRAELI JUDGES ARE The hard reality is that the BDS WOMEN movement is not motivated by a sin- Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked said re- cere desire to make things better for cently that 54% of judges in Israel are Palestinians, but rather a perverse drive female, and that there have been three Visit www.fgcu.edu/hc/ to make things worse for Israelis and women presidents of Israel’s Supreme Jews. (Michael Mostyn, B’nai Brith Court. (Greer Fay Cashman, Jerusalem Post) Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director Canada CEO, Toronto Sun - Canada) continued on next page L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 21

Briefs...continued from previous page WORK ON ISRAEL- luminaries, and managers within the CYPRUS-GREECE budding national economy. ELECTRICITY LINK Israeli culture encourages women to shake off old notions of passivity TO START IN 2018 and obedience and to engage as equals Nasos Ktorides, who heads the Eu- with men academically, professionally roAsia Interconnector project, said and in the military. (Rakefet Russak- recently in Nicosia, Cyprus, that work Aminoach, American Banker) on an electric cable linking the power grids of Israel, Cyprus and Greece is AUSTRALIAN PRIME Ronny S Taschner DDS FIDF National Vice President Marc Active Member of the American Academy of Periodontology on track to start in the first quarter of MINISTER TURNBULL Perlman each pledged $1 million, and2018. LAUDS STRONG the Iranian American Jewish Federation The 1,520-km. (945-mile) under- Jennifer Taschner DDS MMSc pledged $600,000. sea electric cable with a 2,000-mega- RELATIONSHIP WITH Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology Funds raised at the gala will pro-watt capacity will be able to both re- ISRAEL vide much-needed and well-deservedceive and transmit electricity. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull services such as academic scholarships Work on the cable is expected to hailed Australia and Israel’s deep to combat veterans, financial assistancelast until 2022. (Washington Post) ties and shared values after meeting for soldiers in-need, support for Lone Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Soldiers throughout their service andISRAELI DETERRENCE in Jerusalem on Monday, October 30. upon release, crucial aid for woundedIN A NEW MIDDLE EAST Turnbull said their shared values were veterans and the families of fallen sol-Israel’s borders with Egypt and Jordan being tested by “militant Islamist ter- diers, weeks of rest and recuperation forare quiet, with security cooperation be- rorism” – both in the Middle East and entire IDF units, as well as educational,tween Israel, Jordan and Egypt at its the Philippines. “It is a threat to Israel, cultural and recreational facilities. Thepeak. it is a threat to Australia, it is a threat evening presented a rare and exclusive The situation in the West Bank is to all who value and cherish freedom,” opportunity to pay tribute to the Statefragile but manageable. Two years ago, Turnbull said. “We have a vital interest of Israel and its brave men and women there was an effort to ignite a new in- in working more closely and intensely in uniform. tifada, but a strong response by Israel together to keep our people safe from About Friends of the Israel Defense combined with effective intelligence terrorism.” 1645 Medical Lane, Fort Myers, FL Forces (FIDF): Turnbull’s visit is linked to the and monitoring of social media sub- Phone 239-936-0635 FIDF was established in 1981 by a dued most of the efforts to carry out commemoration on Tuesday of the Visit Our Website www.taschnerperio.com group of Holocaust survivors as a 501(c)terrorist attacks. centenary of the Battle of Beersheba (3) not-for-profit organization with What also contributed was a policy during World War I, when Australian the mission of offering educational, to allow nearly 100,000 Palestinian horsemen helped liberate Palestine cultural, recreational and social pro-workers to continue working in Israel. from the Ottoman empire. “It was a grams and facilities that provide hope, Thus, Israel succeeded in isolating the great victory – the last successful cav- purpose and life-changing support forperpetrators from the rest of the popu- alry charge in military history,” Turn- the soldiers who protect Israel and Jewslation. bull said. worldwide. Today, FIDF has more than Moreover, the PA security services Netanyahu said “the rebirth of the 150,000 loyal supporters, and 20 chap-still cooperate with their Israeli coun- Jewish people...would not have been ters throughout the United States andterparts and, together, thwart terrorist possible without the heroism and sacri- Panama. FIDF proudly supports IDFplans. (Yossi Melman, Jerusalem Post) fice of Australian troops who liberated soldiers, families of fallen soldiers, and this land from 400 years of Ottoman wounded veterans through a variety ofHOW ISRAEL MODIFIED rule with tremendous courage.” (Austra- innovative programs that reinforce theTHE F-35 FIGHTER lian Associated Press - Guardian - UK) vital bond between the communities inIsrael is modifying its new U.S.-made the United States, the soldiers of theF-35 fighters from the outset to- inte WHY BAHRAIN IS Needed to label L’Chayim IDF, and the State of Israel. For moregrate Israeli technologies. LEADING GULF ARAB Needed to label L’Chayim information, visit www.fidf.org. These include an Israeli-developed OUTREACH TO ISRAEL joinNeeded us for coffee, to bagels label and the Lsimple’Chayim satisfaction join us for coffee, bagels and the simple satisfaction command, control, communications, In recent weeks, the Kingdom of Bah- that comes from meeting and making friends with computer and intelligence (C4I) system rain has emerged as the Gulf Arab thatjoin comes us for fromcoffee, meeting bagels andand themaking simple friends satisfaction with other volunteers, as we help keep thousands of local that does not interact with the F-35’s country most actively pursuing better otherthat comes volunteers, from asmeeting we help and keep making thousands friends of localwith readers informed about local, national and interna- computer system, but sends sensor data relations with Israel, both for reasons readersother volunteers, informed as about we help local, keep national thousands and interna-of local to other Israeli military assets, particu- of its own and, presumably, with the tional Jewish news. tionalreaders Jewish informed news. about local, national and interna- larly nearby fighters, to help detect, blessing of its principal benefactor, tional Jewish news. prioritize and attack enemy targets. Saudi Arabia. Call 481.4449 ext. 3 to add your name to the Facing Hizbullah, which has Quiet contacts have been main- Call 481.4449 ext. 3 to add your name to the 150,000 tactical rockets, Israel needs tained since at least 1994. In Septem- phoneCall 481.4449 list. Each ext. month 3 to weadd will your call name to confirm to the to rapidly draw in launch-location data, ber, at the Simon Wiesenthal Center in thephone mailing list. Each date month and you we canwill calllet usto knowconfirm if thephone mailing list. Each date month and you we canwill calllet usto knowconfirm if process it, and quickly churn out a pri- Los Angeles, Bahrain’s King Hamad youthe mailingare available date toand help you label can Llet’CHAYIM. us know if oritized target list for the Israeli Air bin Isa al-Khalifa expressed opposition you are available to help label L’CHAYIM. you are available to help label L’CHAYIM. Force. to the ongoing Arab League economic Time: 9:30 A.M. The F-35I will also carry Israeli- boycott of Israel and said that citizens Time: 9:30 A.M. designed missiles. Rafael’s SPICE of Bahrain and Israel should feel free FridayTime:, December 9:30 A.M. 22 2017 Friday, December 22 2017 1000 is so accurate it can place half of to visit each other’s countries without FridayMonday, December, January 2222 20182017 all bombs within nine feet of their tar- restrictions. Monday, January 22 2018 get. It will also carry Israel’s Python-5 continued on next page Monday, January 22 2018 infrared air-to-air missile. Added fuel tanks were also built in to extend the plane’s range by 36%. While the addition of an external fuel tank would compromise the F-35’s stealth, the fuel tank could be used during early phases of an air operation where stealth was not necessary, and jettisoned after use. (Kyle Mizokami, National Interest) WOMEN RUNNING BANKS IS THE NORM IN ISRAEL Three of Israel’s leading banks are cur- rently led by women, myself included. At Bank Leumi – which I have had the privilege to lead for the past five years – more than 40% of the top man- agement are women. This is in addition to the governor of the Bank of Israel, the supervisor of banks, and the director of the capital markets, insurance and savings author- ity – all of whom are women. We, as a country, have been for- tunate to bear witness to a string of powerful women who influenced this nascent society in its early days. Women were encouraged to be- come political leaders, farmers, found- ers of kibbutzim and rural and urban communities, cultural and literary L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 22 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

Briefs...continued from previous page If shared concerns about Iran’s in- BRITISH PRIME MINISTER ‹‹ “When some people suggest we ISRAEL’S IRON DOME Dear Aleksandra Cybulska fluence lie at the core of potential im- REJECTS CALL TO should apologize for this letter, I A QUICK FIX FOR SEOUL’S proved relations between Gulf Arab APOLOGIZE FOR say absolutely not. We are proud VULNERABILITY TO just read about your designation as countries and Israel, Bahrain has a of our pioneering role in the cre- a Righteous Among the Nations by particular incentive to explore the pos- BALFOUR DECLARATION ation of the State of Israel. We are NORTH KOREAN ATTACK? Prime Minister Theresa May addressed South Korea’s capital, Seoul, is 35 Yad Vashem, the Jerusalem-based sibilities since Iran has a history of proud to stand here today together I a dinner in London on Thursday, No- miles from the demilitarized zone,Holocaust museum and research center. claiming Bahrain as part of its own ter- with Prime Minister Netanyahu vember 2 to mark the centenary of the within range of North Korean artil- Heartfelt congratulations on this ritory. and declare our support for Israel. Balfour Declaration. lery and short-range rockets that holdremarkable distinction! Moreover, Bahrain is almost cer- And we are proud of the relation- ‹‹ In 1917, “with Britain still em- 25 million South Koreans – half the It was given because – together with tainly acting on behalf of Saudi Arabia ship we have built with Israel.” broiled in the midst of the First country’s population – hostage. Truck-your late husband, Kazimierz, who was and some of its other Gulf Cooperation ‹‹ “It is only when you witness Is- World War, the idea of establish- mounted Thaad missile defense bat-similarly recognized – you saved the life Council allies in taking the lead in ex- rael’s vulnerability that you truly ing a homeland for the Jewish teries began deploying in South Koreaof a Polish Jewish girl, Sonia Berkow- ploring the potential for dialogue with understand the constant danger Is- people would have seemed a dis- earlier this year. But Thaad is not con-icz, during the darkest period in human Israel. Nonetheless, without any sig- raelis face – as I saw on my visit in tant dream... Yet it was at this very figured to deal with artillery shells, andhistory, the Holocaust. Sonia was the nificant progress on Palestinian issues, 2014, when the bodies of the mur- moment that Lord Balfour had the rocket launchers located right over thedaughter of your friends. the political space for such a dialogue dered teenagers Naftali Frenkel, vision and the leadership to make border don’t loft their munitions to an I have never had the privilege of will remain limited. (Hussein Ibish, Gilad Shaer and Eyal Yifrah were this profound statement about re- altitude where Thaad could be effec-meeting you, but I read and reread the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washing- discovered. So I am clear that we storing a persecuted people to a tive. So protecting Seoul against short-article about you in the Israeli newspa- ton) will always support Israel’s right to safe and secure homeland.” range threats is difficult. per, Haaretz, and stared transfixed at defend itself.” In October, Raytheon displayed anyour photo, showing you in your home ‹‹ “As we work together toward Bal- effective solution at the annual exposi-in Gdynia, Poland, on the eve of your four’s vision of a peaceful co-ex- th tion of the Association of the U.S. Army 100 birthday, receiving the certificate istence, we must be equally clear in Washington that could be availablefrom an Israeli diplomat. HANUKKAH that there can never be any excuses for deployment within months. Ray- In looking at you, I tried to under- for boycotts, divestment or sanc- theon calls the system SkyHunter, butstand what made you act, what led you tions: they are unacceptable and longtime military observers will knowto risk your own life in an attempt to GIFT BAGS this government will have no truck it as Iron Dome – the short-range airprotect someone else’s. with those who subscribe to them.” and missile defense system that Israel Frankly, I am in awe. The Nazi oc- ‹‹ “Neither can there ever be any FOR SENIORS activated in 2011 to counter rockets excuse for anti-Semitism in any fired by Hizbullah in Lebanon. form... And yes, this means recog- Iron Dome has a success rate of nizing that there is today a new and over 90% in countering short-range Do a Mitzvah and help us pack and deliver our Hanukkah pernicious form of anti-Semitism ballistic threats and has successfully which uses criticism of the actions bags to the Jewish residents in our community living in intercepted over 1,500 hostile muni- of the Israeli government as a de- tions headed for Israel. It is designed nursing homes and assisted living facilities in Fort Myers spicable justification for question- to defend precisely the kind of target ing the very right of Israel to ex- and Cape Coral. The residents enjoy not only the contents the South Korean capital represents – a ist.” densely populated urban area. Its radar, of the gift bags, they love being visited by the members ‹‹ “This is abhorrent and we will not built by Israeli company Elta, can track stand for it. That is why the United of the community who deliver them. the trajectories of over a thousand tar- Kingdom has been at the forefront gets simultaneously. • Bags will be packed on Thursday, November 30 at 11:00 a.m. of an international effort to create SkyHunter looks to be the only a new definition of anti-Semitism combat-proven option that could be  Bags will be delivered starting Sunday, December 3. Volunteers which explicitly calls out this inex- on the ground and in action in South can pick up the bags between 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. on Sunday. cusable attempt to justify hatred... Korea by next spring. So chances are, Criticizing the actions of Israel is (Other pick-up and delivery times can be arranged also, if needed.) U.S. investment in Israel’s defense is never – and can never be – an ex- going to pay dividends few observers cuse for questioning Israel’s right could have imagined when Iron Dome This is an opportunity for all family members to get involved. to exist.” (Prime Minister Theresa was first conceived. (Loren Thompson, May, Prime Minister’s Office - Seniors love having young children come visit. From babies Forbes) UK) to bubbes — it doesn’t get much better than that!

RSVP [email protected] or 239.481.4449 x3 For daily news stories related Let’s teach our children that Hanukkah can be a time to Israel & the Jewish world, of giving as well as receiving. visit the Federation’s website at JewishFederationLCC.org. SENIOR OUTREACH PROGRAM Like us on Facebook! ConneCt with your Jewish Community

Come out for lunch, see familiar www.facebook.com/ faces and meet new friends at our facebook.com/jfedsrq monthly senior lunches. JewishFederationLCC UPCOMING DATES:

Tuesday, December 19th, 12 PM Temple Beth Shalom 702 SE 24th Ave., Cape Coral (rsvp by Dec. 15th)

Thursday, January 18th, 12 PM Temple Beth El 16225 Winkler Rd., Fort Myers (rsvp by Jan. 15th)

Let us know if you will be driving or if you would like a volunteer to pick JEWISH FEDERATION you up. FOOD PANTRY RSVP to: Jodi Cohen 239-481-4449, #6 or [email protected] Following is a list of staples always in need at the food pantry: Peanut butter and jelly Pasta sauce (pasta, not needed) Rice and beans Canned vegetables and fruits Cereal Canned meats Condiments Toiletries for adults & children

Gift cards to places like Publix, Walmart, Target, etc., as well as cash donations, are also appreciated. Jewish Family Services helps seniors, individuals and families with a variety of needs. L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 COMMENTARY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 23 Dear Aleksandra Cybulska By David Harris, AJC CEO, October 22, 2017 just read about your designation as cupation of Poland was beyond brutal righteous individuals were so few in examples. a Righteous Among the Nations by and ruthless. All Poles were targeted for number, so why create a seemingly In similar circumstances, let’s be I Yad Vashem, the Jerusalem-based slavery and suppression by the Third skewed impression of how large a role honest, how many of us would have be- Holocaust museum and research center. Reich, yet, even as you and your family they actually played? haved as Ms. Cybulska and her husband Heartfelt congratulations on this were in peril, you chose to add expo- I believe quite the opposite. More did, knowing that the consequence could remarkable distinction! nentially to the danger by sheltering a attention is needed. be our own deaths and, yes, even those It was given because – together with young Jewish child. According to the Haaretz article, of our children? Hopefully, we will your late husband, Kazimierz, who was That act, had it been discovered, Yad Vashem has honored a total of never have to know the answer. similarly recognized – you saved the life would have led to your immediate im- 26,513 people for their bravery in help- Still, your legacy ought to live on of a Polish Jewish girl, Sonia Berkow- prisonment in a German concentration ing Jews, one-quarter of them Poles. not only via Sonia and the family she icz, during the darkest period in human camp, if not death on the spot. And it Poland, as we know, had the largest was miraculously able to create after history, the Holocaust. Sonia was the goes without saying what Sonia’s fate Jewish presence in Europe on the eve of the war, and not just through the laud- daughter of your friends. would have been. the war. Fully ten percent of the Polish able addition of your name to the Yad I have never had the privilege of Sonia’s parents and siblings were population was Jewish, and in Warsaw, Vashem list, but also because your meeting you, but I read and reread the killed by the Germans, but she was the country’s capital, approximately example should serve, at a minimum, article about you in the Israeli newspa- saved because of your courage, because one-third of the residents were Jewish. to inspire us all to aim higher and show per, Haaretz, and stared transfixed at you saw in Sonia someone who de- True, compared to the larger Euro- more genuine concern for the most your photo, showing you in your home served the opportunity to live, because pean population at the time, the number vulnerable among us. in Gdynia, Poland, on the eve of your you understood that the affirmation of of rescuers is microscopic, even if we Words become inadequate in seek- 100th birthday, receiving the certificate our common humanity dare not be sac- assume there were others who escaped ing to express admiration and gratitude from an Israeli diplomat. rificed no matter what else might have the attention of the museum, and even to you for affirming life in the midst of In looking at you, I tried to under- been going on around you. if we add those people in countries like such death and destruction. stand what made you act, what led you Some people say that too much at- Albania, Bulgaria, Denmark and Fin- May we learn from your powerful to risk your own life in an attempt to tention has been paid to those who tried land who were part of larger national story – and may we be worthy of the protect someone else’s. to protect Jews because it distorts the efforts to save Jews. gift of humanity we’ve been given in Frankly, I am in awe. The Nazi oc- history of this period. After all, these But it’s precisely because there our one and only chance to live life as were so few such heroes – and they it was intended. were true heroes, even as the word today is so shamefully overused and The AJC West Coast Florida COMMENTARY BRIEFS devalued – that we need to understand office, located in Sarasota, can what prompted them to act, and what be reached at 941.365.4955. WHY THERE IS NO PEACE buildings, and fought from the midst we can possibly hope to learn from their IN THE MIDDLE EAST of a civilian population. Yet despite Peace is not possible in the Middle the enemy’s similar tactics, Israel pro- East because values and goals other duced vastly lower casualties as a pro- What do you think? than peace are more important to Mid- portion of Gaza’s population and much dle Easterners. Loyalty to kin, clan and less property damage than the Western coalition against ISIS did. In other L’CHAYIM wants to know! cult are the cultural imperatives. Some Send your letters & comments to [email protected]. prefer to attribute the problems of the words, the very Western countries that Middle East to outsiders, such as West- accused Israel of “disproportionate” 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/ ern imperialists, but it seems odd to and “excessive” harm in Gaza were guilty of far greater harm in Syria and or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of L’CHAYIM nor its suggest that the local inhabitants have advertisers. We cannot acknowledge or publish every letter received. no agency and no responsibility for Iraq. (Evelyn Gordon, Commentary) their activities. Honor comes from winning. Hav- ing lost in a political struggle results Thank you to these sponsors who help in loss of honor. Losing is regarded as to ensure the continuity of the deeply humiliating. Only the prospects . of a future victory and the regaining Jewish Film Festival of Southwest Florida of honor drives people forward. An (There is still time to become a sponsor and add your example is the Arab-Israel conflict, in the course of which the despised Jews name and/or your business name to this list.) repeatedly defeated the armies of Arab states. The only way to regain honor is PRINCIPAL SPONSORS: to defeat and destroy Israel. This is why no agreement over land or boundaries Advanced Pain Management and Spine Specialists will bring peace: peace does not restore Dr. Jonathan Daitch and Dr. Michael Frey honor. (Philip Carl Salzman, professor of anthropology at McGill University in Canada, Gatestone Institute) WHAT RAQQA SAYS ABOUT PRODUCERS: Dr. Brian and Sara Krivisky GAZA’S DEATH TOLL According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, over 3,000 people DIRECTORS: Martha & John Wolf were killed in Raqqa, including about 1,130 civilians, during the course of a four-month battle. In the 2014 Gaza war, according to UN figures, 2,251 Palestinians were killed. But a compar- ison of raw numbers is meaningless; the relevant comparison is casualties SCREENWRITERS: Sylvia & Paul Simko Lin & Ron Klein as a proportion of the population. Reeva & Ian Shaffer Barbara & Barry Epstein According to The New York Times, Raqqa had a population of 300,000 when ISIS took it over. In comparison, Gaza’s population in 2014 was 1.79 million, according to official Palestin- ian statistics. In other words, the casu- Helene & Jorge Glocer Linda & Charles Idelson alties in Raqqa represented 1% of the Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist of Florida city’s pre-ISIS population. The casual- Howard N. Barrow, MD ties in Gaza represented 0.12% of the population. Thus, as a proportion of the population, casualties in Raqqa were FILM STARS: Cheryl & Michael Goldstein Judi & Richard H. Davis JEWISH FEDERATION 10 times higher than those in Gaza. FOOD PANTRY Moreover, roughly 6% of buildings Shirley & Byron Frank Harriet & Alan Josephson in Gaza were destroyed or badly dam- aged. New York Times reporter Ivor Marsha & Mike Kistler Linda Shuster Following is a list of staples always in need at the food pantry: Prickett wrote, “when I visited eastern

Peanut butter and jelly Pasta sauce (pasta, not needed) Raqqa, it was hard to find a street or Rice and beans Canned vegetables and fruits building that had not been damaged by FESTIVAL FRIEND: Cereal Canned meats the fighting.” ISIS and Hamas employed virtual- Condiments Toiletries for adults & children ly identical tactics. Both dug extensive tunnel networks under civilian build- Thank you to Regal Cinema for Gift cards to places like Publix, Walmart, Target, etc., as well as cash donations, are also appreciated. Jewish Family Services helps seniors, individuals and families with a variety of needs. ings, wired civilian buildings with ex- plosives, stockpiled arms in civilian hosting our film festival.

L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 24 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties FROM THE BIMAH

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. It all begins with “God was with us” like to say that Jewish theology – hint of God’s presence. Not so the Eng- Abraham and Sarah, our understanding of God – is situ- lish we were taught. In that version, ational. Sometimes we believe one Maccabeus leads a “faithful band,” but it comes down to us Iway and sometimes another. Our the- and the Jewish people redeems itself hat is the major difference Take note: God promised never to ology is not systematic. One approach “through deed and sacrifice.” Okay. between the true God of the destroy the earth again, but there was cannot be applied to all situations. God’s not on the surface, but God is Torah and all the pagan gods never a guarantee that we humans will This is certainly true when it comes clearly implied as the source of Jew- W to our understanding ish strength and resolve, an idea no- people worshipped in ancient days? not. It is not so much that they wor- But that third society, after the of Chanukah. Who where in the original Hebrew. And the shipped idols, and it is not so much that flood, worked out no better than the saved the Jews and Hebrew version makes no mention of they had many gods other two. Judaism of ancient “the things that befell us.” The original and we have one. After the Tower of Babel, God had Israel: God or the song is not about Jewish suffering and The difference is a serious three-pronged dilemma: Maccabees? We’ve redemption with God’s help. It’s about God’s agenda! • God still cared and would not give got different answers Jews taking their destiny into their own Before the Torah, up the hope that humans could cre- to that question. hands.  people worshipped ate the society God wanted. Rabbi I grew up sing- So, which one is it? Jews taking gods because they • God was still dismayed by human Marc ing the Chanukah care of Jewish survival on their own, Sack presumed they had failure to do so. song, “Mi Y’maleil,” or Jews being victorious and thriving  Rabbi power. The whole • God had promised never to destroy “Who can retell.” We sang the song with the help of God? Chanukah puts Stephen purpose of religion the earth again. both in Hebrew and in English. But that question before us and lets us de- Fuchs was to appease these God’s answer was to choose Abra- I’ve recently learned that the Hebrew cide for ourselves. gods. They made offerings to bribe the ham and Sarah and their descendants version does not correspond to the There is no one answer to the ques- gods not to use their presumed power (that is all of us) to create the just, English translation we were given. The tion of God’s role in history. Maybe to harm the worshippers, but to per- caring and compassionate society for literal translation of the Hebrew song one religious response can come from haps induce them to use their power to which God has yearned since the time is as follows: a common understanding of God’s en- help them. of creation. Who will describe the mighty deeds of counter with Moses after the incident Our God’s agenda was and is dif- God’s charge to Abraham, “Be a Israel? of the Golden Calf, the time when God ferent. blessing,” is God’s charge to us today! Who can count them? tells Moses that he can see God’s back The God of the Torah created the If each of us seeks to use our indi- See, in every generation but not His face. What does it mean to world with the hope that we human vidual talents in ways that bring bless- A hero arises see God’s back? We can see the after beings, who are charged with respon- ings to others and not just to ourselves, Who saves the nation. effects of God’s presence. We can look sibility for the quality of life on earth, we can have – at last – the type of Listen! In those days in this season! back at a time and say, “God was with would create on this planet a just, car- world God wants. The Maccabee was a savior, a us.” ing, compassionate and peaceful soci- For more detailed development of redeemer! That is how I feel about God in ety. these ideas, please read my book What’s And in our days, let all the nation history. We cannot wait for God to re- God’s first attempt in the Garden in It for Me? Finding Ourselves in Israel spond to our challenges, to fight our of Eden failed! Biblical Narratives. The book is now Unite, rise up, and be saved. battles. We must do these on our own. So did God’s second attempt that available in English, German, Russian That’s not the English version I But we can look back at some times ended with the flood because the world and Spanish. learned. That song contained lines like, and say, “God was with us.” I under- was full of violence, corruption and Here is the Amazon link: “Who can retell the things that befell stand that this raises as many questions immorality. http://tinyurl.com/jdd4cvn us?” And, “Brave Maccabeus led the as it answers, but that is the nature of After the flood, God tried a third Rabbi Stephen Lewis Fuchs serves at faithful band.” And finally, “But now our tradition. As one guide to Juda- time, with the promise that the Eter- Bat Yam Temple of the Islands on Sani- all Israel must as one arise, redeem it- ism says, “It’s more important to have nal One would never destroy the earth bel Island. self through deed and sacrifice.” asked the questions than to have all the again. The Hebrew version is a modern answers.” I agree with this. Zionist song that celebrates the hero Rabbi Marc Sack serves at Temple who saves the nation. It says nothing of Judea in Fort Myers.  Rabbi the “things that befell us,” and has no Bruce Diamond FineMark National Bank & Trust is proud to consistently earn a 5-star rating from Bauer Latkes Financial, the nation’s leading independent bank ho can imagine Hanukkah by her beauty, he agrees and throws a rating rm*. We attribute our success to the without latkes? The crack- great feast, planning to seduce her. At meaningful relationships we build with our clients. Wling sound of potatoes fry- the banquet, Judith serves him salty  e better we know you, the better we can serve you. ing in oil, that first crisp bite, the cool cheese, washed down with rich wine. applesauce or sour cream mingling At the end of the night, he passes out with the warm latke. We eat fried foods drunk on the bed. Judith then takes on Hanukkah to re- his sword, grabs the hair on his head, mind us of the mira- and strikes his neck twice with all her cle of the special oil might, cutting off his head. She places used for the Temple the head in a bag and runs back to her menorah lasting for town. The Israelites attack the army by eight nights. But why surprise the next morning, and when fried potatoes? In they see their general’s head on a stick, Israel, they eat fried they scatter and flee. Happy Chanuka  Rabbi doughnuts. And go This gruesome but compelling sto- he literal meaning of Chanuka is Nicole to any state fair and ry is thought to have originated at the “inauguration” or “dedication.” Luna you will see plenty time of the Maccabees. Long before Chanuka celebrates the puri- of options of fried food. Imagine eat- potato latkes became the official - Ha T fication and rededication of the Holy ing fried Oreos all Hanukkah long! nukkah food, medieval Jews ate cheese Temple in Jerusalem, after its defile- According to Gil Marks, author of the and dairy dishes to celebrate Hanuk- ment by the Greeks. Encyclopedia of Jewish Food, potato kah in honor of Judith and her bravery Whenever we latkes date only from around the 1800s against the enemy. By frying them into celebrate a Jewish when potatoes were planted extensive- pancakes, they combined two tradi- holiday, the same ly across eastern Europe. But latkes – tional types of foods – fried and dairy – spiritual forces that a fried pancake – existed long before into the perfect Hanukkah treat: cheese came into play thou- then, so what were Jews frying before latkes. As the Jews migrated into east- sands of years ago potatoes? ern Europe and began frying with ani- are reenacted, as we The original ingredient for the mal fats, cheese latkes were no longer  Rabbi say in our prayers, latke comes from the Book of Judith. kosher, so potatoes became the perfect Yitzchok “In those days and The Book of Judith is not part of the substitute. Minkowicz in our times.” Dur- Tanach, the Hebrew Bible, but is litera- Hanukkah is the festival of light ing Chanuka, we are imbued with an ture from the Second Temple period, and also courage. The story of Judith extra strength to renew and rededicate after the Jews returned to Israel after is a story about great bravery, about the spiritual “Holy Temple” that exists exile. It’s a story about an evil villain a woman facing an evil general set within each of us. Today, the enemy is set out to kill the Jews, and the beauti- to destroy her people. Using both her the Evil Inclination and the difficulties ful heroine who murders him. The vil- cleverness and her physical strength of the exile, which threaten to “defile lain, Holofernes, a general of the Assyr- she defeats him. As we enjoy our po- the oil” and “cause us to forget Your ian army, is about to capture the town tato latkes this Hanukkah, fry up some Torah.” On Chanuka, our eternal bond of Bethulia in Israel. Judith, a young cheese, eat cheesecake or kugel, and with G-d is reinforced and fortified. widow, convinces the town leaders to remember the courage of Judith. “Chinuch,” which is also translat- follow her plot to save the people. She Rabbi Nicole Luna serves at Temple ed as “education,” means becoming ac- goes out to the enemy camp and offers Beth El in Fort Myers. customed to something new. Whenever herself to the general as a spy. Smitten Fort Myers • Bonita Springs • Charleston • Estero • Naples • Palm Beach • Scottsdale we embark on a new course, we need 239-461-5900 • www.fi nemarkbank.com • Member FDIC • Equal Housing Lender Trust and investment services are not FDIC insured, are not guaranteed by the bank and may lose value. extra strength and incentive to succeed. *5-Star Financial Rating issued by Bauer Financial, a leading independent bank rating and research fi rm. Rating is 5 out of 5. Stay connected @ www.JewishFederationLCC.org For example, it is a Jewish custom that L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 FROM THE BIMAH Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 25

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. Struggle and blessing othing worthwhile in life ever nance. He finally found the wood in the emerges without a certain ten- timberline, the last stand of trees above Nsion and even pain. The birth the Rockies, 12,000 feet above sea of a baby, the building of a business, level. Up there where the wind blows the creation of a career, the develop- so fiercely and steadily, the bark to the ment of a happy family life all are the windward has no chance to grow. All products of people the trees lean in one direction. But they who are determined stand firm and they do not fall to the to wrestle with a ground. That wood, after facing years challenging situation of challenge of the elements, is so reso- until it yields a bless- nant and beautiful that it sings to the ing. The remarkable touch of the bow. thing is that we real- All of us all our lives will have to ly never obtain any- face stressful elements. Like our an-  Rabbi thing in life except cestors the Maccabees, we must have Solomon by facing stress; as it the courage to think, we must have the Agin challenges us, it tem- tenacity that love demands, we must pers our iron and makes it steel. have the desire to be and become ev- This theme of tempering through erything that we might be in time. We stress is illustrated in the following true must hold life firm and in everything story. America has produced only one that we face, we must be prepared to great form of the violin. The original struggle and to hold fast, until we have maker searched all his life for wood, found our satisfaction. which would enable the violin to have Rabbi Solomon Agin serves at Temple a certain haunting and beautiful reso- Shalom in Port Charlotte. “What is to give light must endure burning” s our Festival of Lights ap- need lots of propping up with all man- proaches, I’m drawn to psy- ner of destructive stimulations. DISCOVER WHAT Achotherapist Viktor Frankl’s Only those who lift themselves sobering observation, “What is to give into the light by taking moral stands light must endure burning.” This might know what it really means to be truly IT’S LIKE TO HAVE very well be the most concise state- human, deriving boundless energy ment ever regarding Jewish history. from within. As he put it, they are pre- AN EXCEPTIONAL Dr. Frankl knew pared to “endure burning” in order to more than any person live in the light and share it with others. should about burn- Isn’t that the story of Hanukah? DAY, EVERY DAY. ing, having survived While so very many were prepared to Auschwitz, where his “go along to get along” with their pa- mother and brother gan overlords, a small handful took were murdered. His a principled stand, and most of them wife was murdered paid the ultimate price. Only one of the  Rabbi in Bergen-Belsen. five Maccabee brothers, Simon,- sur 2674 Winkler Avenue • Fort Myers, FL 33901 Bruce His experience vived the conflict with the Selucidians. Diamond in the camps rein- Judah, Yohanan, Eleazer and Jonathan 239-275-7800 forced his conviction that a person’s perished in the long and seemingly im- Latkes search for meaning and purpose was possible struggle as did countless other What does exceptional senior living mean to you? by her beauty, he agrees and throws athe most essential element of an indi- martyrs. They “endured burning” but At The Palms of Fort Myers it means a lifestyle great feast, planning to seduce her. At vidual’s humanity. That sense of mean- shed great light. where 24-hour Five Star service meets a world of the banquet, Judith serves him salty ing gives us “the courage to be,” as ex- It is that light that continues to opportunities. Savor a delicious meal prepared for cheese, washed down with rich wine.istential theologian Paul Tillich put it. shine even “bazman hazeh” – until this you by our culinary team or whip up something At the end of the night, he passes out Frankl teaches that it is possible to very day – that very same light we cel- drunk on the bed. Judith then takesslither through living in the protective ebrate in this month’s eight-day festi- special in your own kitchen. Take an exercise his sword, grabs the hair on his head,shadows of a purposeless, unremark- val. class with your neighbors or start your day with and strikes his neck twice with all her able life, but he would assert that such Rabbi Bruce Diamond serves at The our Coffee and Crosswords group. Our lifestyle is might, cutting off his head. She places persons never fully experience what it Community Free Synagogue in Fort designed for the way you live. the head in a bag and runs back to hertruly means to be a human being. They Myers. town. The Israelites attack the army bylive depressed, listless existences that surprise the next morning, and when DISCOVER: they see their general’s head on a stick, • Month-to-month rental community they scatter and flee. Happy Chanuka This gruesome but compelling sto- • Five Star Dining Experience, featuring Signature he literal meaning of Chanuka is when a Jewish boy is brought to “ched- ry is thought to have originated at the recipes “inauguration” or “dedication.” er” for the first time, we throw candies time of the Maccabees. Long before Chanuka celebrates the puri- at him and tell him they are from the • Lifestyle360 program offering a full-schedule of potato latkes became the official Ha-T fication and rededication of the Holy angel Michael. The candies make the nukkah food, medieval Jews ate cheese activities Temple in Jerusalem, after its defile- child happy, and instill in him the de- and dairy dishes to celebrate Hanuk- ment by the Greeks. sire to learn. After the Holy Temple • Variety of in-house religious services kah in honor of Judith and her bravery Whenever we was defiled, an extra measure of holi- against the enemy. By frying them into • Scheduled local transportation for medical celebrate a Jewish ness was required. The self-sacrifice of pancakes, they combined two tradi- holiday, the same the Jewish people for the sanctification appointments and shopping tional types of foods – fried and dairy – spiritual forces that of G-d’s Name provided this extra spir- into the perfect Hanukkah treat: cheese • 24-hour care available, should your needs change came into play thou- itual power that allowed the Temple to latkes. As the Jews migrated into east- sands of years ago be rededicated and renewed. • Exceptional senior living experiences ern Europe and began frying with ani- are reenacted, as we The miracle of Chanuka involved mal fats, cheese latkes were no longer  Rabbi say in our prayers, light, which is symbolic of an inten- CALL TO SEE HOW YOU CAN LIVE THE kosher, so potatoes became the perfect Yitzchok “In those days and sification and increase in Torah and EXCEPTIONAL LIFE TODAY! substitute. Minkowicz in our times.” Dur- mitzvot, as it states, “For a candle is a Hanukkah is the festival of light ing Chanuka, we are imbued with an mitzva, and the Torah is light.” On each and also courage. The story of Judith extra strength to renew and rededicate day of Chanuka we light an additional is a story about great bravery, about the spiritual “Holy Temple” that exists candle, increasing the illumination in a woman facing an evil general set within each of us. Today, the enemy is the world. Indeed, this is a Jew’s mis- to destroy her people. Using both her the Evil Inclination and the difficulties sion each day: to successfully utilize cleverness and her physical strength of the exile, which threaten to “defile the strength we derive from Chanuka she defeats him. As we enjoy our po- the oil” and “cause us to forget Your to rededicate ourselves to Torah and tato latkes this Hanukkah, fry up some Torah.” On Chanuka, our eternal bond mitzvot, in an ever-increasing manner. cheese, eat cheesecake or kugel, and with G-d is reinforced and fortified. May the lights of Chanuka culmi- remember the courage of Judith. “Chinuch,” which is also translat- nate in the light of the era of Moshiach, Rabbi Nicole Luna serves at Temple www.ThePalmsAtFortMyers.com ed as “education,” means becoming ac- when “the night will shine like the day; Beth El in Fort Myers. INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING customed to something new. Whenever darkness will be as the light.” MEMORY CARE • REHABILITATION we embark on a new course, we need Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz serves at Assisted Living Facility License #AL07269 extra strength and incentive to succeed. Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Flor- Pet ©2017 Five Star Senior Living For example, it is a Jewish custom that ida. Friendly L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 26 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties FOCUS ON YOUTH Temple Beth El high school students meet with Congressman Rooney By Mackenzie Sax, Brianna Murray, Sarah Gatof, Evan Kagan, Temple Beth El Hebrew Chai students s part of Temple Beth El’s high high school students we have experi- tions about it. and told us his own story about being school program, Hebrew Chai, enced the effects of ignorance, and we We felt it was important to share part of a Catholic minority growing up Awe had the incredible opportu- shared stories with Rep. Rooney about our firsthand experiences because if we in Oklahoma. We appreciated how in- nity to meet with Representative Fran- anti-Semitic incidents such as having do not talk about the problems, no one tently Rep. Rooney listened to us. cis Rooney on October 18 at Temple Holocaust jokes directed toward us and will know and nothing will get solved. Temple Beth El’s Hebrew Chai Beth El. having pennies thrown at us. We specifically asked Rep. Rooney program has inspired us to advocate for We spoke to Rep. Rooney and Holocaust education is so impor- to support a House resolution condemn- our beliefs and issues important to us. brought to light the issues of white su- tant because we have also had fellow ing hate speech and a House resolution We believe we can make a difference premacy, anti-Semitism and Holocaust students ask us what the Holocaust is. encouraging more Holocaust education through our advocacy efforts. education in today’s society. As Jewish We’ve even had teachers ask us ques- in school. Rep. Rooney was very warm

High School Students: Earn CAS Credits! Bar / Bat Mitzvah Specialist The Jewish Federation of Lee Choosing the right photographer is an important decision. and Charlotte Counties is Michael Shapiro has more than 30 years experience in media interested in hearing from and journalism. He is able to capture images that are unique, teenagers in high school unexpected and spontaneous. who might like to earn CAS credits though various work in the Jewish community. If you are interested, please send the following information to [email protected]: Name Address Phone # Age Other Services: Weddings / Family Portraits / Events Grade 239.770.6860 School [email protected] Preferred volunteer hours www.shapiro-photography.com (e.g. 2 - 5P.M. Sundays)

PJ LIBRARY HOLIDAY PROGRAMS for families with children ages 28 years

January 25 February 14 Bring your children to enjoy Temple Beth El Community Free Synagogue an hour of stories, arts & crafts, “Planting for Tu B’shevat” “Getting Ready for Purim” 5:00 6:00 p.m. 5:00 6:00 p.m. games, a light dinner and more in celebration of upcoming Jewish holidays. There is no cost to attend. The programs are open to March 6 April 26 everyone with children ages 2-8. Shalom Life Center Temple Judea “Celebrating Passover” “Fun on Lag B’Omer” 5:00 6:00 p.m. 5:00 6:00 p.m.

RSVP to Leni at [email protected] or 239.481.4449 x3 L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 FOCUS ON YOUTH Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 27

worked on a skit of the TEMPLE JUDEA SCHOOLS weekly Torah portion of Fort Myers the week. Currently they are combining all of their Temple Judea Religious School footage and are planning to make a Liz Singer Temple Judea commercial. and told us his own story about beingDir. of Congregational Learning Important dates: part of a Catholic minority growing upLife after the hurricane has involved • December 15: 3rd and 4th Grade in Oklahoma. We appreciated how in-a lot of readjusting, but Temple Judea Class Shabbat Consecration tently Rep. Rooney listened to us. Religious School is great at being flex- • December 16: Congregational Temple Beth El’s Hebrew Chaiible. There are two classrooms that are Chanukah Party program has inspired us to advocate forin the process of being repaired and, • December 24 - January 3: winter our beliefs and issues important to us.as a result, classes are meeting in the Break We believe we can make a differencesanctuary, resource room and pretty * * * through our advocacy efforts. much every free space available. Temple Judea Preschool The holiday celebrations were very Joann Goldman, Temple Judea special. Students have spoken a lot Preschool Director about the concept of teshuvah (repen- What an amazing time we have had in tance) and selichot (asking for forgive- preschool. The children enjoyed all the Candle lighting times: ness). activities we had planned for the fall Now that we are through the holi- season. Our activities ranged from ear- December 1: 5:17 days, classes are busy. Our PreK - 2nd ly math skills to environmental aware- graders are learning about the value ness. Children used their imagination December 8: 5:18 of bikur cholim (visiting the sick), and as our dramatic center changed weekly recently made cards to send to people from a Fire Station to Publishing Com- December 15: 5:20 recovering in hospitals. The 3rd and 4th pany, where children created books. graders have been excitedly prepar- The children had a blast. December 22: 5:23 ing for their upcoming class Shabbat Winter is just around the corner. which will take place on Friday, De- The children will be learning about December 29: 5:27 cember 15. The 5th and 6th graders are the coldest season by taking a look at focusing on Modern Jewish History. winter clothing, and changes that oc- Currently the school is looking at cur during this season. We will set up Results of the value of B’tselem Elohim (being an ice skating rink in the dramatic play a recent made in G-d’s image). This includes area as snow fills our entire classroom. national self-image and how we treat others. On The older children will be experiment- survey of November 19 we are connecting to the ing with ice and snow in the sensory 25,000 monthly value by having an extended table. families High School Students: day and going to see the movie Won- December promises to be an ex- conducted by der after Religious School. Wonder is a citing one in Pre-K. We will kick off PJ Library story about a young boy, August Pull- the month by introducing our brother Earn CAS Credits! man, who was born with facial differ- and sister bear team. Fred E. Bear and Parents in Lee ences and the challenges for him when Fran E. Bear will begin their journey PJ Library is and Charlotte he enters a mainstream school for the home with each of our Pre-K students counties whose making a first time. this month. Each child will have an children are difference in the The Cooking Chug (elective) has opportunity to take the bears home in enrolled in lives of families made delicious shakshuka, which is a their suitcase for the weekend. The PJ Library raising Jewish tomato stew with vegetables and eggs; bears come with toothbrushes, spe- participated in chocolate balls, which is a mixture of cial bear combs, and an assortment of the survey. children.. cookies and chocolate; and homemade clothes. The children will be utilizing pita and hummus, which of course was their new journal writing skills as they delicious. The Media Chug got foot- share about their weekend in the jour- age of the Cooking Chug, interviewed nal that goes home with the bears. This sukkah builders about the holiday, and program teaches the children how to be responsible and caring. In December we will be teaching the children songs and finger plays from around the world. We will be DISCOVER celebrating and learning about many different cultures in the world. Our THE FUN! students will have a chance to use the passports they created so we can travel to different countries. We will be celebrating Hanuk- kah on the 13th with music and games. The children will have fun during our Devyn Frey adds ingredients to the hummus book exchange, which will take place at our Hanukkah party. We learned new Hanukkah songs and the children will have a chance to win some gelt as RECEIVE they play the dreidel game. The entire THE GIFT school will come together to light the menorah, which will take place in our OF FREE pre-kindergarten class. We will sing JEWISH and dance to celebrate this festive holi- day! CHILDREN’S If you would like to learn more BOOKS about Temple Judea Preschool, please call 239.482.1121. MAILED TO Temple Judea Preschool wishes YOUR HOME everyone a Happy Hanukkah and very EVERY MONTH! Making pita Happy and Healthy New Year. SHARE the experience of reading with your children as they grow with Funded by the

Chanukah PJ Library books.

Roth Family begins SIGN UP TODAY! Foundation & Enrollment is open to Asher Family Tuesday Jewish families with Foundation children between the night, ages of six months to eight years December 12 More information, living in Lee & Charlotte contact Leni Sack Counties. 239.481.4449 ext. 3 For a continuously updated [email protected] calendar of events, visit www.JewishFederationLCC.org. Families can sign up for PJ Library at pjlibrary.org L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 28 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ORGANIZATIONS

once proudly stood. The the Chanukah candles the way we do passion and tolerance will prevail! SHALOM LIFE CENTER horrible attacks we once today. He said that you start with one We will join together at Shalom Fort Myers viewed only in the Mid- light, then two, three, and so on with Life Center on Friday, December 15 at (239) 218-3433 dle East and Europe are the message: “D’ma’alin b’kodesh 7:30 p.m. to “Light Up the World” with now occurring in Ameri- v’ein moridin” – in matters of holiness our epic community menorah lighting, Light up the world can cities. We live in times of uncer- we do not decrease, only increase.” musical Shabbat service and lots of de- Lawrence & Robin Dermer tainty and fear, and our solidarity with As we light the Chanukah candles licious, gourmet latkes and other Cha- The story of Chanukah recounts the those who stand for tolerance and reli- this year, during what seems like a nukah treats! Jewish victory of the Maccabees over gious freedom is vital. In these times darker time, let us commit to increas- Don’t forget to mark your calen- the Greek-Syrian ruler Antiochus over of darkness, we are all looking for the ing hope, faith and action. dars for Saturday, December 16 at 7:30 two thousand years ago. The Greeks light. We celebrate Chanukah as the fes- p.m. for our annual “Winterfaith Con- were determined to defile the Temple Across the world, as oppressive tival of lights, and this miracle serves cert.” Swing and sway into the season and extinguish the light of Judaism. governments cling to power, we need as a symbol to remind us that with a lit- with your Shalom Life Center commu- Following the battle, the Jews found to work together with our partners for tle faith in G-d, hope is possible. With nity as we dazzle Southwest Florida only enough oil to light the menorah peace in fighting for equality, human this story of light, the focus was shifted with a festive interfaith holiday musi- for one day. The flame was lit and it rights and dignity. Even the smallest from the battlefield to Divine power, cal extravaganza followed by a deli- miraculously burned for eight days. light will illuminate a vast darkness, to that spark of hope that one day the cious dessert buffet! The Maccabees fought a battle for re- and with this idea as our guiding prin- light of freedom and tolerance will il- This will be an evening of inspir- ligious tolerance and that battle con- ciple, we can bring meaningful and luminate the entire world. In each and ing and uplifting holiday music with tinues today in many places across the lasting peace to our troubled world. every age we are challenged by those a few special surprises that you don’t globe. We look to our ancient texts to find who wish to destroy us, stand against want to miss! The concert is open to This struggle has reached us here the hope and inspiration to persevere. the nation of Israel and our covenant the whole community. To RSVP, visit at home where the darkness of hate The rabbis of the Talmud recounted the with the Almighty. Light has always www.shalomlifecenter.org. For more and prejudice most recently reared its Chanukah story about a jar of oil that defeated the darkness. May the beauty information, call us at 239.218.3433 or ugly head in the terror attack in New should have been enough for only one of this year’s Chanukah lights remind email [email protected]. York City just steps away from the night but miraculously burned for eight us that history will repeat itself once site of where the World Trade Center days. Hillel teaches us why we light more and the light of hope, love, com-

of the United States Em- Israel. This is the supposed crux of national public speaker, will be speak- ZIONIST ORG. of AMERICA bassy from Tel Aviv to the matter. Disregarding the fact that ing at the Chabad Jewish Center of Southwest Florida Chapter Jerusalem, Israel. Un- Jerusalem has been the unequivocal Naples (1789 Mandarin Road) on this (914) 329-1024 fortunately, successive capital of the Jewish people for millen- pivotal topic and other issues of war administrations from nia, it is not internationally recognized and peace relating to the Israeli-Pales- ZOA presents Clinton to Trump have signed waivers as such. Thus, upon this pretext, the tinian conflict. Dr. Shoula Romano Horing thwarting implementation of the law. aforementioned presidents have with- Tickets are $20 in advance and Jerrold L. Sobel Needless to say, the Zionist Or- held recognition pending final status $22 at the door; $7 for students. Send On October 23, 1995, the 104th Con- ganization of America is sorely dis- talks. your check to ZOASWFL, 4003 Upolo gress passed into public law the Jeru- appointed in this vacillation. The Act On Wednesday, December 6 at Lane, Naples, FL 34119. For further in- salem Embassy Act. With overwhelm- also called for Jerusalem to remain 7:30 p.m., Dr. Shoula Romano Horing, formation, contact me jerrysobel@aol. ing support from both sides of the aisle, an undivided city and for it to be rec- noted attorney, opinion columnist, ra- com or 914.329.1024. the legislation called for the relocation ognized as the capital of the State of dio talk show host, law professor, and

In mid-second cen- outside influences or ignorant of festi- God. This, they hoped, would tamp HUMANISTIC JEWISH HAVURAH tury B.C.E. Israel, Greek vals of light. The book of II Maccabees down on any future plans for zealous of Southwest Florida influences had led many claims that the new rulers declared uprisings, something they knew would (239) 495-8484 Jews – particularly the an eight-day festival as a delayed cel- be disastrous for the Jews. well-educated and pow- ebration of the fall holiday of Sukkot For Humanistic Jews, the Macca- Chanukah, oh Chanukah, erful – to embrace a more cosmopolitan which they failed to commemorate bees’ invention of the holiday and the a time for reinvention Hellenized way of life. Backed by Se- during the war. They also had in mind later Rabbis’ willingness to invent a Paula Creed with Rabbi Jeffrey Falick leucid Greek rulers, they even gained Solomon’s dedication of the original new “reason for the season” serve as The Humanistic Jewish Havurah in- control of the Temple. Meanwhile, the Temple during Sukkot. But one other reminders that every Jewish tradition vites you to celebrate Chanukah at 5:30 more traditionally-minded fumed at element of Sukkot may have tipped the is both human created and open to re- p.m. on Saturday, December 16 in the what they perceived as disobedience scales because, alongside the sukkah evaluation and re-definition. Fireside Room of the Bonita Bay Club. of God. When the Greek emperor An- and other familiar Sukkot traditions, In the centuries to come, Zionists Make your reservation by mailing a tiochus IV backed the Hellenizers, im- ancient Sukkot observances also fea- would position the Maccabees as he- check payable to “HJH” in the amount posing anti-religious laws, war broke tured torchlight ceremonies. So, was roes of Jewish self-determination. In of $40 per person to Joan Weinstein, out. the Maccabees’ invention of Chanukah America, rabbis emphasized its themes 15191 Cedarwood Lane, Apt. 2505, The Maccabees won and estab- an attempt to devise their own winter of religious liberty, resonant in the Naples, FL 34110. Reservations must lished their own kingdom. To mark solstice festival? “land of the free.” Meanwhile, Ameri- be received by Monday, December 11. their triumph, they declared an eight- Whatever their self-proclaimed can Jewry – inspired by Christmas just You are encouraged to bring your me- day celebration beginning on 25 reasons for inventing Chanukah, two as surely as the Maccabees were by norah. Candles will be provided. Kislev, a date that conveniently falls things are clear: 1) The holiday is as Greek and solstice traditions – deco- * * * near the time of the winter solstice. closely timed to the winter solstice as a rated and exchanged gifts like their Would it matter if you discovered Solstice festivals to encourage the re- lunar calendar will allow, and 2) there Christian neighbors. that the Chanukah “miracle of the oil” turn of the sun by lighting fires were is not a single mention of the “miracle For Humanistic Jews, this flex- was a legend invented hundreds of widespread in that region. These rituals of oil” in any contemporaneous ac- ibility of interpretation reminds us that years after Jews began to celebrate the gave a small sense of control to those count of the war and its aftermath. there have always been multiple voices holiday? For Humanistic Jews it mat- who lived at the mercy of a capricious That little addition to the Macca- in Judaism; that it is a living tradition ters a great deal because knowing the natural world. bee tale is first mentioned hundreds of we ourselves create and continuously origins of our holidays helps us see Though the Maccabees saw them- years later by Talmudic Rabbis who re-fashion for our own needs. how they evolved and why, liberating selves as anti-assimilationists par ex- sought to re-position the Maccabee us to make them our own. cellence, they were not immune from victory as entirely dependent upon

they have so many other but to an entire generation of Holocaust others interested in: promotion of Ho- GENERATIONS OF THE SHOAH books to read. I can re- survivors who, in spite of the burden locaust education and human rights, SOUTHWEST FLORIDA late to that because as a of suffering they carried from Europe preservation of the history and memo- (239) 963-9347 member of the Hadassah and its legacy of hatred and violence, ries of the Holocaust, connection of Book Club and a Patron succeeded in rebuilding their lives and the Second Generation (2gs) with one Is reading ten pages of a book of the Jewish Book Festival, I have a dreams.” another, and support of the Holocaust enough? As Tevye would say, lot of books that I want to read. But So what should one do? Do what- Museum & Education Center of South- “yes” and “no” I also want members of GenShoah to ever works for you. If you have time, west Florida. Ida Margolis feel invested in the book discussion of read the entire book. But if you are too GenShoah SWFL will present a Those of you who have seen Fiddler Displaced Persons. Berger, author of busy to read the entire book, read just variety of programs for the public and on the Roof may remember that when several books and a New York Times re- the ten-page introduction. It will be children of survivors this season. A list- attempting to decide some issue, milk- porter and editor since 1984, included enough to give you insight into Berg- ing of the programs appears below and man Reb Tevye would argue with a ten-page brilliant, powerful, insight- er’s book, and it is likely that you will additional information about upcoming himself presenting both sides, often ful introduction that itself is enough to want to read the remainder later. GenShoah programs will be featured in prefacing each side by saying “on one understand this book and enable one to The first discussion will take place future editions of the Federation Star hand” and then “on the other hand.” participate in a discussion. at the GenShoah Pot Luck Dinner on and in the monthly GenShoah enews- How does this relate to reading ten So is reading ten pages of this book Sunday, December 17 at 4:30 p.m. letter. pages of a book? It relates because this is enough? On one hand, yes, ten pages All those attending are requested to A very special program, “Through year I have told many people about is enough. But on the other hand, no. bring a dish that all can share. Space Their Eyes” for 2gs, will be presented the excellent, compelling, illuminat- By not continuing to read the book, one is very limited at this event and RSVPs in January. For more information about ing book, Displaced Persons: Growing will miss out on so many stories about are required. Email Shirley Besikof at this program or GenShoah, to receive Up American After the Holocaust by Berger’s family in the U.S. and their [email protected] and let her the GenShoah newsletter, or to become Joseph Berger, that GenShoah SWFL background in Europe, and not get the know what dish you can bring. involved with this group, please email has selected for discussion. Their re- entire experience of reading this “re- GenShoah SWFL is a group for [email protected]. sponse is often that it sounds good but markable tribute not only to his parents children of Holocaust survivors and L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 ORGANIZATIONS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 29

nization this new, of pri- officials credit his wide influence for Mayor, Honorable Bill Barnett. JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY marily local importance, their victories, at least in part. His in- For tickets, please visit https:// OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA and in a community al- volvement with the Holocaust Muse- jhsmurrayhendel.eventbrite.com or email (239) 566-1771 ready packed with other um & Education Center of Southwest [email protected]. To advertise in the causes and activities. Florida as co-president, and Temple event program, purchase a table or be- Are you just a Jewish statistic In January 2018 at our Annual Shalom as board member, left a lasting come a sponsor, please email jhsswf@ or are you making an impact? Florida Jewish History Month Celebra- impact for the “Jewish insiders” and gmail.com. Marina Berkovich tion, we will be honoring Murray Hen- the overall community he and his wife Explore the early Jewish life of As you may have already heard, the del. He is in this statistical analysis in Pauline care so much about. Southwest Florida at Virtual Museum Jewish Federation of Collier County the following way: 8% by overall age, And yes, there is a mile-long of Southwest Florida Jewish History has completed its 2017 Collier County 6% by current involvement, 11% by stretch of the boardwalk that bears his by going to http://jewishhistorysouth Jewish Community Study. It is very full-time residence, 12% by time lived name. And it was a given that when westflorida.org/. detailed and some may wonder why a in Naples, and 100% by the importance JHSSWF was deciding on the title of Our Mission complex study like this was needed in to the Jewish and non-Jewish com- the film about Murray, Murray’s Mile Collecting, protecting and preserving a community of relatively low Jewish munity of Collier County, Southwest was there reminding us not to reinvent Jewish history to celebrate the contri- presence and visibility. Florida and beyond. the well-oiled wheel Murray has kept bution by Jews in Southwest Florida Here’s my insight into some of the But don’t you dare tell Murray going here for the decades of his pres- every day of every year is part of our numbers and the story they tell me. Hendel that he is a mere statistic! Mur- ence. mission. We were expecting a 10,000 esti- ray spent every day of his very active Come celebrate Jewish History Become a member of JHSSWF, a mate of the Jewish population of Col- 30+ year presence in this community Month with us and thank Murray for sponsor, business associate, volunteer lier. The results came in at about 7,800. to make sure he will be remembered if sticking his Jewish neck out for all of and/or donor. Contact us at: It means there are even fewer of us, not for his name, then for his efforts. us and making this community more The Jewish Historical Society but just look at the mountains of good Murray became so involved in so accepting of any and all of us. of Southwest Florida work we are accomplishing at estab- many organizations that there is hardly The sixth film in the Southwest 899 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 116, lishing a Jewish community where a cause he has not espoused or actively Florida Jewish Pioneers Film Series, Naples FL 34108 there was none before the 1950s. It pursued. A former IRS man, he earned Murray’s Mile, will premiere on Sun- 239.566.1771 tells me that every 10th Jewish resident the respect of the government work- day, January 21 at the Jewish Histori- [email protected] ~ www.jhsswf.org of Collier County is engaged with the force in Collier County and the City of cal Society’s Florida Jewish History The Jewish Historical Society of Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Naples by putting his expertise to work Month Celebration. This annual major Southwest Florida is a section 501(c) Florida. That is quite a lot for an orga- for them. Many elected city and county event’s Honorary Chairman is Naples (3) charitable organization.

portance of cooperation.” Iris Shur ([email protected]) For $15 a month you can be part of HADASSAH Hadassah itself was built and Lynn Weiner (lynninaples@ great organization. Chai Society can Collier/Lee Chapter with women cooperating yahoo.com) are the coordinators. help transform a life. It can help mend (239) 370-6220 with each other to bet- • Sunday, December 17: Brunch for a broken body at a Hadassah hospital ter lives for all women’s Major Gifts/Keepers of the Gate in Israel. Luba Rotsztain (lubabeto@ Karen Cohn rights. For example, Hadassah women and Chai Society. Nancy Wiadro yahoo.com) is the chairperson. Our Hadassah Chapter had its Open- have been known to travel to Washing- ([email protected]) is the Our chapter is always looking for ing Brunch on October 31 at Cypress ton, D.C. to speak to congressmen to coordinator. If you did not get an people to volunteer in any capacity. Woods Country Club. Carol Finn, In- let our voices be heard. They also have invitation, let Nancy know. You can help at a program or luncheon, terim Program Vice President, planned joined in for “A Day in the District” to • Tuesday, January 30: Installation fundraiser or anything else that may in- the brunch and took care of everything. meet a congressman in their specific Luncheon terest you. You can do a one-time job God. This, they hoped, would tampOur speaker was Roz Rosen, and she district to voice an opinion. As a group • Sunday, February 25: Major Fun- or you can do a job that is ongoing. down on any future plans for zealous had everyone so engaged and inter- we can more successfully make a dif- draiser. Israel’s 70th Birthday Carol Hirsch is Membership/Volunteer uprisings, something they knew wouldested that people participated. Nobody ference. Bountiful Breakfast. Lee Henson Coordinator. We would love to have be disastrous for the Jews. left early. We voted on the new slate. There are a few Hadassah pro- ([email protected]) is the you meet new people and help. For Humanistic Jews, the Macca-Our installation of new officers is in grams I want to let you know about. chairperson. At this time we are looking for an bees’ invention of the holiday and theJanuary. • Tuesday, December 5 at Beth Tik- If you are a new Hadassah mem- Education Vice President and Fund- later Rabbis’ willingness to invent a Even as our President, Ellen Hersh- vah: Joy Katzen-Guthrie will be ber or just want to contribute to this raising Vice President. If you are inter- new “reason for the season” serve askin, once said, “We all know the im- preforming “Joy of Jewish Music.” cause, the Chai Society is a good start. ested, please let us know. reminders that every Jewish tradition is both human created and open to re- evaluation and re-definition. thew Lawrence’s me- In the centuries to come, Zionists JEWISH WAR VETERANS morial service. He was would position the Maccabees as he- Victor Paul Tuchman Post 400 a great man and will be roes of Jewish self-determination. In (239) 246-3151 greatly missed. America, rabbis emphasized its themes We heard from an- of religious liberty, resonant in theEryka Aptaker other one of our members, Harry Sha- “land of the free.” Meanwhile, Ameri-Our “post-hurricane” meeting was piro, who had not been feeling well. It can Jewry – inspired by Christmas justa huge success! The venue was the was wonderful to hear that he is doing as surely as the Maccabees were byAmerican Legion Post 38, and it was much better. We are all keeping Harry Greek and solstice traditions – deco-lovely to see the turnout and interest in our thoughts and prayers, and are rated and exchanged gifts like theirin our meeting. Present was a guest looking forward to seeing him soon. JWV Post 400 members with Capt. Robert Gizzi and Undersheriff Carmine Marceno Christian neighbors. named “Tino” who came to Florida Our guest speaker this month was al baseball player and a Marine. Car- On November 4, the VPT Post 400 For Humanistic Jews, this flex-in 1945. He spent 12 years in the Air Undersheriff Carmine Marceno, and mine came to Florida with his family participated in the Lee Memorial Mili- ibility of interpretation reminds us that Force and gave us a wonderful intro- with him was Capt. Robert Gizzi. Un- on vacation and he knew he wanted to tary Appreciation Day. Commander there have always been multiple voices duction of himself. Commander Har- dersheriff Marceno gave a wonderful be here. (Seemingly, the same way we Charter, Bob Ruberto, Isaac Osin and in Judaism; that it is a living traditionvey Charter presented him with the speech and shared his background. all wound up down here!) He started Herb Lutsky were there in conjunction we ourselves create and continuouslyVietnam pin. Carmine grew up in the Bronx, New his career in Col- re-fashion for our own needs. Commander Charter thanked the York, then moved to Long Island with lier County and Honor Guard for being present at Mat- his family. His father was a profession- 15 years later had the opportunity to work for Sheriff west Florida in Naples. Scott. Over time, others interested in: promotion of Ho- HAZAK 55+ CHAPTER The Museum will pro- Sheriff Scott had locaust education and human rights, at Temple Judea vide a docent. Car pools seen Carmine’s po- preservation of the history and memo- (239) 433-0201 will be formed at 9:00 tential and sent him ries of the Holocaust, connection of a.m. in Temple Judea’s through the FBI the Second Generation (2gs) with one Joyce Rosinger parking lot. The group will have lunch Academy at Quan- another, and support of the HolocaustSaturday, December 30 at 9:30 a.m. is at Brio Tuscan Grille in the Waterside tico. Listening to Museum & Education Center of South-the annual HAZAK Shabbat service at Shops. For additional information and this man speak, west Florida. Temple Judea. HAZAK members will to RSVP, please call Lynda Maslow at you had to realize GenShoah SWFL will present a participate in the service and sponsor 239.703.7273. that he was a very variety of programs for the public andthe Kiddush. Our special guest speaker Temple Judea’s active HAZAK humble and very children of survivors this season. A list-is Zohar ben Hamu, Temple Judea’s Chapter is a chartered member of the accomplished per- ing of the programs appears below andIsraeli Shaliach. Join us at this special USCJ. Dues are a modest $5 per year son. We are all very additional information about upcomingservice. per person. Membership in the organi- grateful that Un- GenShoah programs will be featured inSave the dates: zation is open to the community. Join dersheriff Marceno future editions of the Federation StarOn Sunday, January 21 at 4:00 p.m., HAZAK and meet new friends. The and Capt. Gizzi Isaac Osin, Commander Harvey Charter, Bob Ruberto and in the monthly GenShoah enews-guest speaker Cynthia Williams will HAZAK Chapters are for singles or were able to attend our meeting, espe- with Hearts & Homes for Veterans, as- letter. treat us to a visual presentation entitled couples. It’s an organization formed by cially since they have been immensely sisting any homeless veterans who had A very special program, “Through“The Hidden History of Fort Myers.” the United Synagogue of Conservative busy since the hurricane. needs. Thank you so much for all you Their Eyes” for 2gs, will be presented Dinner after the program will be at a Judaism to enable members to meet and An early “happy birthday” was do! in January. For more information about local restaurant to be determined. For socialize with each other. Our monthly wished to Col. Bert Kurland, another Please consider joining this fabu- this program or GenShoah, to receiveadditional information, please call Jan programs vary in nature. For additional well-accomplished person with an lous group of dedicated people. We the GenShoah newsletter, or to becomeKlein at 239.482.6073. information, please call Bunny Law- amazing military career. The only meet once a month (usually, the last involved with this group, please email On Thursday, February 15, rence at 239.245.7708, Shirley Schiff- thing I am having difficulty figuring Sunday) at the Jewish Federation in [email protected]. HAZAK will visit the Holocaust Mu- man at 239.395.0135, or George or out is how he is a WWII veteran and Fort Myers. The breakfast meeting seum & Education Center of South- Joyce Rosinger at 239.437.1566. only 35?! We love you Bert! starts at 9:30 a.m. L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 30 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties TEMPLE NEWS

services (and Tot Shab- the following note: “Thank you so bat services with us on November 3. TEMPLE BETH EL bat) will be led by Cantor much for sending those beautiful cards It was a touching and memorable eve- Fort Myers Bessman and volunteer of hope and healing to our congrega- ning, with both Pastor Thom and Rabbi (239) 433-0018 lay leaders. Rabbi Luna tion. As you know, the recent tragedy Luna on the bimah. Rabbi Luna gave met with congregants was devastating and everyone here felt the church members a special blessing. www.templebethel.com to present an outline to its impact. Your thoughtfulness and Pastor Thom spoke of his connection to follow, as well as how that of the children to think of us truly Judaism, growing up on Miami Beach Open to the community: fabulous one- to give a short dvar Torah. Our newly warmed our heart. I shared the cards at and taking Torah lessons (and a shot of stop Chanukah shopping at Temple trained lay leaders will lead services services this past Shabbat, and to the Manischewitz) from a Jewish neigh- Beth El on Sunday, December 3 from (and Lunch & Learn) for the next few entire religious school during tefillah. bor. Pastor Thom’s message of inter- noon until 3:00 p.m. TBE’s holiday ba- months. The children learned that even as we faith cooperation was delivered with zaar will offer gift items at great prices. Last January we celebrated Rabbi help our friends, sometimes it is even warmth and humor. Phyllis and Berny Jewelry, original art, Judaica items, Luna’s arrival with a festive installa- more important to help those that we Aronson accepted the church’s invita- home-baked goods and much more tion dinner. This January we will cel- don’t know. That an act of kindness tion to Sunday services two days lat- will be available for your shopping ebrate Cantor Bessman with a lovely to someone else can restore hope and er, where they were warmly received. pleasure. All are invited to this unique welcome dinner on Saturday, January bring healing. In fact, I think our art Says Phyllis: “If more of us took the shopping experience, a great opportu- 20 in TBE’s Dubin Center. teacher will take your lead and come time and made an effort to understand nity to complete your Chanukah shop- Following the Las Vegas shoot- up with a similar project and so the what religion means, the world would ping at affordable prices. ing tragedy, Morah Dani’s art students chain of love and kindness will con- certainly be in better shape. Hugs do During Rabbi Nicole Luna’s ma- sent messages of peace to Temple Ner tinue to find its way to others in need. work!” ternity leave, the traditions of our peo- Tamid in Las Vegas. Their handmade Again, thank you for your creativity, Save the date of Sunday, February ple will be upheld as we reach out in cards incorporated colorful paper that your kindness and support.” 18 for the “Uptown Express” doo-wop prayer together. Come to services and the children had marbled themselves. We thank Cypress Lake United and Motown show at the Crowne Plaza get to know Cantor Bessman. Shabbat In return, Rabbi Sanford Akselrad sent Methodist Church for attending Shab- Hotel (Bell Tower).

Well-informed peo- bers and atmosphere at Temple Beth Chanukah Dinner and Gift Exchange TEMPLE BETH SHALOM ple of all viewpoints Shalom. Although it is called Brown on Monday, December 11 at 5:30 p.m. Cape Coral come together every Bag Lunch, lunch is optional. at Chen’s China Bistro. Contact Merna (239) 772-4555 other Wednesday to dis- As popular as it is, Brown Bag Stein at 239.772.9209 or momndad cuss current events. The Lunch is just one of many activities [email protected] for reservations. There www.templebethshalomcc.org discussion is lively, fre- at Temple Beth Shalom. Friday night will also be a Chanukah party with quently heated and al- services start at 7:30 p.m. every Friday, latkes for the whole congregation. Remember the days when you could ways respectful. You can add your and Torah Study is Saturday mornings Temple Beth Shalom’s annual have a civil discussion about politics point of view or just listen. Either way, at 10:30 a.m. Mah Jongg is every other Honoree Banquet will be on Saturday, and in the end agree to disagree? Ex- you will find the conversations to be in- Tuesday and the bowling league meets January 13. We will be honoring Stu- perience that again at Temple Beth formative and interesting. Brown Bag on Sunday mornings at HeadPinz. art Berman and Marcia Strumwater Shalom’s Brown Bag Lunch With the Lunch is open to everyone and are a December promises to be a busy for their exceptional dedication to the Rabbi. good introduction to the unique mem- month with the Sisterhood Annual temple. Watch for more details. Send updates and changes to the Directory below to [email protected].

TEMPLE BETH EL CHABAD OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY REFORM ORTHODOX 16225 Winkler Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 204 E Mckenzie St Unit B, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 Rabbi Nicole Luna Rabbi Simon Jacobson Email: [email protected] Phone: (941) 8333381 Temple educator: Dale Cohen, Ma.Ed., R.J.E Email: [email protected] Preschool director: Jesyca Virnig Web site: www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com President: Ellis Rabinowitz IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES Services: Saturday at 10 a.m. followed by Phone: 4330018 • Fax: 4333235 a kiddush COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE Web site: www.templebethel.com Torah study: Wednesday at 8 p.m. Shabbat services: 7:30 p.m. Friday; Torah study Fort Myers 9:00 a.m. Saturday; B’nai Mitzah 10:30 a.m. Saturday CHABAD LUBAVITCH Religious School: 9:30 a.m.noon Sunday COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE (239) 466-6671 Hebrew School: 5:006:30 p.m Wednesday OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA REFORM ORTHODOX www.fortmyerssynagogue.com Judaica Gift Gallery 10868 Metro Parkway, South Fort Myers Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism 5620 Winkler Road (The Southwest Florida Masonic Center) Fort Myers, FL 33919 P.O. Box 07144, Fort Myers, FL 33919 Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz Heartfelt thanks to Rabbi Marc Sack TEMPLE BETH SHALOM Rabbi Bruce Diamond Phone: 4337708 • Fax: 4819109 REFORM ([email protected]) Email: [email protected] of Temple Judea for the generous do- 702 S.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33990 Coordinator: Natalie Fulton Web site: www.chabadswf.org nation of 27 Conservative Sabbath Adult Educator: Jessica Evers Rabbi Devora Buchen Services: Friday 5:15 p.m.; Saturday Kabbalah and Festival Morning prayer books for President: Arnie Schwartz Phone: (239) 4666671 class 9 a.m.; Shacharit 10 a.m.; Kiddush at noon Phone: 7724555 • Fax: 7724625 Email: [email protected] Minyan: Monday & Thursday 7:00 a.m. C.F.S’ 2-year Cantor Certification Pro- Email: [email protected] Web site: www.fortmyerssynagogue.com gram. These siddurim will enable our Web site: www.templebethshalomcc.org Community Sabbath eve dinner each Friday at 6:30 p.m. CHABAD JEWISH CENTER 11 cantors-in-training to broaden and Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday OF CAPE CORAL Religious School: Thursday 4:00 6:30 p.m. Sabbath eve worship every Friday at 7:30 p.m. deeper their understanding of Jewish Light breakfast and Torah study with the rabbi ORTHODOX Torah study with Rabbi Buchen: Shabbat 10:30 a.m. 1716 Cape Coral Pkwy. W., Cape Coral, FL 33914 liturgical tradition. Organizations: Brotherhood, Sisterhood, every Saturday morning from 9:30 11:30 a.m. Rabbi Yossi Labkowski Welcome Reverend C.J. McGregor, Family Service (1st Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m.) Phone: 9634770 TEMPLE JUDEA Email: [email protected] new spiritual leader of Fort Myers’ All BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS CONSERVATIVE Web site: www.chabadcape.com Faiths Unitarian Congregation. Rabbi 14486 A&W Bulb Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 REFORM Services: Friday Evening 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Marc Sack Bruce Diamond was instrumental in Meets at Sanibel Congregational Church Saturday morning 9:30 a.m. followed by 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island Email: [email protected] its 2001 founding, and was invited to President: Jennifer Manekin Kiddush luncheon Rabbi Stephen L. Fuchs Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. participate in Rev. C.J.’s installation on President: Alan Lessack Director of Congregational Learning: Elizabeth Singer MondayFriday morning 7:00 a.m. Sunday afternoon, November 5. Phone: 2395790296 (OctApr) JLI Courses: Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. 7732518862 (MaySept) Preschool Director: Joann Goldman The congregation extends the [email protected] Weekly Torah Study: Tuesday evening 7:30 p.m. Email: [email protected] warmest welcome to the Bat Yam Cantor: Murray Simon Phone: 4330201 • Fax: 4333371 Hebrew School: Sunday 10:00 a.m.12:30 p.m. Web site: www.batyam.org Email: [email protected] Jgirls: Tuesday 6:007:00 p.m. Congregation’s new religious leader, Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday (NovApr) Web site: www.tjswfl.org Rabbi Fuchs, and Temple Beth El Can- 7:00 p.m. Friday (MayOct) Services: 6:15 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m. COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Adult Education: Saturday Minyan: 9:00 a.m. Monday  Shalom Life Center tor Richard Bessman. Both men bring Saturday, 9:00 11:30 a.m. (NovApr) Religious School: Sun. 9:30 a.m.noon; Lawrence Dermer, Spiritual Leader 2183433 a wealth of experience and boundless Jewish Current Events: Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Wed. 4:306 p.m. • AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee): to 12:15 p.m. (NovApr) Early childhood education: Jacki Waksman (954) 6539053 Write: P.O. Box 84, Sanibel, FL 33957 Preschool, MF, ages 18 months5 years; • AJC (American Jewish Committee): “Mommy & Me,” 12 months2 years Brian Lipton (941) 3654955 Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism • AntiDefamation League: (561) 9882900 Affiliated: United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism • B’Nai B’rith International: (941) 3024500 TEMPLE SHALOM CHARLOTTE • Chevra Kadisha: HARBOR AND THE GULF ISLANDS CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS/ Gene Sipe 8414615 REFORM • Generations of the Shoah SWFL: 9639347 23190 Utica Ave., P.O. Box 494675 ESTERO • Hadassah Collier/Lee Chapter: Lynn Weiner 5981009 Port Charlotte, FL 339494675 ORTHODOX 24850 Old 41 Road, Suite 20 (in the Bernwood • Hadassah Sharon Chapter (Charlotte County): Rabbi Solomon Agin Odette Port (941) 5051409 President: Gary Wein Centre) Bonita Springs, FL 341357024 • Hazak 55+ Chapter: Phone: (941) 6252116 Joyce Rosinger 4371566 Email: [email protected] Rabbi Mendy Greenberg Phone: 9496900 • Humanistic Jewish Havurah: Web site: templeshalomfl.com Paula Creed 4958484 Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday Web site: www.JewishBonita.com • Israel Bonds: Regional Headquarters: (800) 6228017 Religious school: Sunday 10 a.m. Services: Saturday at 10 a.m., followed by • Jewish Community Services: 4814449 Beginning Hebrew: Tuesday 4:15 5:15 p.m. a kiddush • Jewish National Fund: (727) 5365263 Advanced Hebrew: Thursday 4:15 5:15 p.m. Memorial Tree Planting in Israel 18005428733 Organizations: Sisterhood • Jewish War Veterans: Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism Post 400: Commander Harvey Charter 2463151 • Mikvah Bashka of Southwest Florida: Nechamie Minkowicz 8222784 • ORT Gulf Beaches Chapter Marina Berkovich 5661771 L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 TEMPLE NEWS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 31

to 11:15 a.m., the congre- government in 1917; Egypt and Israel He is active with CROP/Church World BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS gant presentations in De- signed a cease-fire agreement in 1973; Service, Bread for the World and Heif- Sanibel cember focus on the topic the Berlin Wall fell in 1989; Israeli er International. He is especially inter- (773) 251-8862 “Ghettoes in Europe – Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was as- ested in the intersection of religion and Patterns of Political Re- sassinated in 1995. culture, and is committed to the impor- www.batyam.org sistance,” coordinated by In preparation for the Shared tance of multicultural education. Renee Sugar. Scholar Lecture, the Reverend John The Shared Scholar Lecture is It is delightful to be at Friday evening Since Rosh Hashanah, Rabbi Danner, Senior Pastor of Temple Bat co-sponsored annually by Temple Shabbat services conducted by Rabbi Fuchs keeps reminding his Temple Bat Yam’s host church, will present a two- Bat Yam, the Sanibel Congregational Stephen Fuchs and Cantor Murray Si- Yam audience about the most repeated part introductory course on Wednes- United Church of Christ, St. Michael mon. They are “new” to Temple Bat dictum in the Biblical text. It requires days, November 29 and December 6 at and All Angels Episcopal Church, First Yam but the depth of their experience ethical treatment of the stranger be- 10:00 a.m. and repeated at 7:00 p.m. in Church of Christ Scientist and Captiva and knowledge makes for a beautifully cause we, the Jews, were strangers in Fellowship Hall. Chapel by the Sea. Temple Bat Yam is coordinated and dynamic evening of the land of Egypt. Since then, we have The 2018 Shared Scholar Lecture grateful that its sponsorship is under- worship through song and teaching. As been considered as strangers in many will take place on Sunday, January 14 written by the Leo Rosner Foundation our seasonal snowbirds arrive, they too other countries. This requirement from at the Sanibel Congregational United in honor of June Rosner. will quickly enjoy the “new” experi- the Bible remains pertinent to us today Church of Christ. The shared scholar Mark your calendars for the San- ence at Temple Bat Yam. as 65 million refugees seek safety. for 2018 is Dr. J. Clinton McCann. He ibel-Captiva Heart Walk on Sunday, Saturday morning Adult Education Rabbi James Rudin, a retired mili- will speak about the Psalms as a bridge January 28. Rabbi Fuchs will be the classes continue in December. At 9:00 tary chaplain, was the featured speaker to interfaith cooperation. A reception featured speaker prior to the walk. a.m., Rabbi Fuchs teaches Hebrew at two Christian-Jewish Kristallnacht will follow the program. On Tuesday, All Temple Bat Yam services and reading for those interested in learning events in early November. As the January 16, Dr. McCann will offer a classes take place on the campus of the to read Hebrew and those who need Temple Bat Yam resident historian, workshop on music in the life of reli- Sanibel Congregational United Church a refresher. From 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., he reminded us that the week around gious congregations. of Christ located at 2050 Periwinkle Rabbi Fuchs discusses the Bible por- Kristallnacht is momentous for Jews Dr. McCann is Evangelical Profes- Way, Sanibel, where members of the tion for the week and its relevance to for other historical reasons. The Bal- sor of Biblical Interpretation at Eden community, guests and visitors are us today with plenty of opportunity for four Declaration was issued in 1917; Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. He always welcome to join with congre- questions and discussions. From 10:30 the Bolsheviks overthrew the Russian earned a PhD from Duke University. gants.

are underway. Children day evenings: December 10, 24 and 31. Saturday, December 30. In addition to TEMPLE JUDEA and adults of Temple Ju- Just call the synagogue office. members of the group helping to lead Fort Myers dea are looking forward A wine and cheese reception is morning services, Zohar ben Hamu, (239) 433-0201 to their annual Hanukkah held every Friday from 5:30 to 6:30 Temple Judea’s Shliach, will be the party. This year’s party is p.m. right before Shabbat services. It’s guest speaker. www.tjswfl.org on Saturday evening, De- a great time for members to enjoy so- For more information about Tem- cember 16. There will be cializing and to greet prospective new ple Judea or upcoming programs, call Monday evenings of Jewish Learning great food, activities for children, and members and those visiting the syna- or email the synagogue office. continue with Rabbi Marc Sack and wonderful music supplied by the Sha- gogue. Regular scheduled events: Liz Singer, Director of Congregation- lom Band from Miami. Call the syna- Join Rabbi Sack at his Torah study • Friday evening Shabbat services at al Learning, sharing their knowledge gogue office to make your reservation. session at noon the first Thursday of 6:30 p.m. with adult learners. The following morning, Religious each month, held at the offices of My- • Saturday morning Shabbat servic- Temple Judea’s Sisterhood, Cha- School students will have a special hol- ers and Brettholtz and Company. It is es at 9:30 a.m. verot, is in full swing with a Dairy Pot- iday program. You can never have too an hour of open discussion of Torah • Lunchtime Torah study with Rabbi luck Brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 much Hanukkah fun! and Judaism where all levels of back- Sack the first Thursday of each p.m. on Sunday, December 3. Along Congregants continue to volunteer ground and all questions are encour- month – next Torah study is on with their potluck dishes, members each month at Sally’s Café, a Salvation aged. Everyone is welcome and there December 7. will bring personal stories of the jour- Army-sponsored program to feed the is no cost to attend. The next Torah • Morning minyan every Monday at neys that led them to Fort Myers and homeless and those in need. To volun- study is December 7. 9:00 a.m. Temple Judea. teer, call the synagogue office. Volun- Hazak, Temple Judea’s 55+ group, Plans for Hanukkah celebrations teers are needed for the following Sun- will sponsor the Shabbat service on

enthusiasm for enriched kah cult classic parody The Hebrew Every Saturday at 9:30 a.m., C.F.S. COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE Jewish living to our com- Hammer. (“An orthodox Jewish blax- offers a light breakfast followed bya Fort Myers munity, and we pray for ploitation hero saves Hanukkah from lively discussion of the week’s Torah (239) 466-6671 their long and happy ten- the clutches of Santa Claus’s evil son.” portion until 11:30 a.m., when the ures among us! – imdb) Pack your dinner; admission Mourner’s Qaddish is recited. www.fortmyerssynagogue.com The community is and soft drinks are free. Now in its 13th year, The Commu- invited to join Rabbi Dia- At 6:30 p.m. on Sabbath Hanu- nity Free Synagogue is a not-for-profit Heartfelt thanks to Rabbi Marc Sack mond as he once again helps conduct kah eve, C.F.S. will enjoy a tradi- open community religious resource, of Temple Judea for the generous do- Fort Myers Memorial Gardens’ Lumi- tional Latke Dinner and Hanukah not a private membership-based orga- nation of 27 Conservative Sabbath nary Service at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sing-Along. Bring your menorah and nization. All of its events and programs, and Festival Morning prayer books for December 3. This moving interfaith candles or use ours. As always, dinner including youth and adult Jewish edu- C.F.S’ 2-year Cantor Certification Pro- gathering connects the participants to is free and open to all. Reservations are cation, are open to all and always free. gram. These siddurim will enable our their loved ones whose memories loom not required, but please email comfree- C.F.S.’ founder and leader, Rabbi 11 cantors-in-training to broaden and even larger at the holiday season. [email protected] to let us know how Bruce Diamond, D.D., celebrates the deeper their understanding of Jewish The festive first-night lighting of many to expect. Heartfelt thanks to 40th year since his ordination at The liturgical tradition. The Community Free Synagogue pub- Fort Myers Memorial Gardens for un- Hebrew Union College-Jewish In- Welcome Reverend C.J. McGregor, lic menorah is at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, derwriting the meal! stitute of Religion in Cincinnati, and new spiritual leader of Fort Myers’ All December 12 on Metro Parkway in The next C.F.S. Israel Pilgrimage marks his 20th year in Fort Myers. Faiths Unitarian Congregation. Rabbi front of the synagogue building. The departs June 4 for 10 days of learn- The purpose of The Community Bruce Diamond was instrumental in 8-foot tall electronic golden menorah, ing, celebrating and enjoying in the Free Synagogue is “Study, Worship its 2001 founding, and was invited to the creation of Rabbi Thomas Miess, Holy Land. For more information, visit and Benevolent Acts,” generally fol- participate in Rev. C.J.’s installation on will also be lit at the same time each www.fortmyerssynagogue.com. lowing Reform traditions. The syna- Sunday afternoon, November 5. evening, except for Friday, of Hanu- Each Friday at 6:30 p.m., The gogue meets at the Southwest Florida The congregation extends the kah. The public is encouraged to at- Community Free Synagogue serves Masonic Center, 10868 Metro Park- warmest welcome to the Bat Yam tend. Hanukah treats will be served. a traditional Sabbath dinner. It is free way in South Fort Myers. For more Congregation’s new religious leader, C.F.S.’ next “Brown Bag Movie and reservations are never required. information, visit its website at www. Rabbi Fuchs, and Temple Beth El Can- Night” starts at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday At 7:30 p.m., the Sabbath is welcomed fortmyerssynagogue.com. tor Richard Bessman. Both men bring December 14 in the Community Hall with prayer and song. A coffee hour a wealth of experience and boundless featuring the over-the-top 2003 Hanu- follows worship.

tance or support comes and it is open to all. Each session has cookies and much more. TEMPLE SHALOM from the Federation or a new topic. On Sunday, December 17 at 5:00 Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands any other organization. On Sunday, Decembers 17 at 4:00 p.m., the Jewish Film Committee pres- (941) 625-2116 On Friday evening, p.m., join us for our Outdoor Celebra- ents The Chosen. A deli dinner will fol- December 8, Rabbi A. tion of Chanukah and the lighting of low. A $15 donation is requested for www.templeshalomfl.com James Rudin will return the large outdoor menorah, with music the dinner. as a guest speaker. His by Jane Galler and Rabbi Agin on bass. For additional information, call Temple Shalom is Charlotte County’s topic will be “The Rise of anti-Semi- The temple will provide latkes, Cha- Temple Shalom at 941.625.2116. only Reform Congregation affiliated tism in Europe and the United States in nukah candies, dreidels, sufganiyot, with the Union of Reform Judaism and 2017.” The presentation is made pos- whose rabbi is a member of the Central sible by the Robert Bader donations in Conference of American Rabbis. the Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund. Shab- Changing you address? Keep All of our programs and events are bat services will start at 7:30 p.m., fol- open to the entire community and in lowed by an Oneg. L’CHAYIM coming to your home. most cases, they are free. The programs On Tuesday, December 5, “Intro- are made possible by donations to the duction to Judaism” continues with a Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund. No assis- special program devoted to Hanukah, Email [email protected]. L'CHAYIM DECEMBER 2017 32 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties

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