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OF PINELLAS & PASCO COUNTIES, FL OF PINELLAS & PASCO End The Jewish Federation The Jewish SECURITY continued on PAGE 12 SECURITY continued on PAGE DeSANTIS continued on PAGE 8 DeSANTIS continued on PAGE The initial meeting was to hear St. Petersburg assistant chief of police, as well as top brass detectives and from the sheriff’s of- fice, joined the meeting – the first of several envisioned by Gualt- ieri. Nearly every congregation, Jewish agency and organization were represented. The trip, May 25-31, was organized All three cabinet members Attorney ernor, according to the Jerusalem Post. ernor, in conjunction with Enterprise Florida, Inc. General Financial Ashley Officer Jimmy Patronis and Commissioner Moody, of Agriculture Fried participated in the mission as did Chief Nikki members of the legislature including - DID YOU KNOW?DID YOU Joe visits the Federation’s Jewish Joe visits the Federation’s Community Camp as a specialty self-defense teaching instructor at about camp Learn more techniques. www.JewishCommunityCamp.org. www.JewishPinellas.org Like our page @ www.facebook.com/jfed.pinellas Like ons The sad fact is they can happen With the most recent spike in ties. un- later, or sooner and anywhere, less hearts and minds filled with hatred are changed, they will. But that does not mean there likely is nothing to do but wait and hope for the best. worries about security, Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri event involvement, and marketing support for the events going on. Yet we knew that to truly indi- cate our expanded geog- move to need we’d raphy, our thinking beyond ‘The Jewish Federation of Federation at TOP Federation NEW NAME continued on PAGE 5 NEW NAME continued on PAGE to endowments benefiting the endowments to Including $340,000 in contributions Including $340,000 in contributions Since July 1, 2018, we’ve raised 1, 2018, we’ve July Since $1,796,246 ssI Jewish press staff report staff Jewish press With more than 100 fellow biparti- He also visited a West Bank settle- Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis prays at the Western Wall. About 100 political leaders, business May 25-31. people and educators accompanied the governor on his first foreign trip, DeSantis makes history: Visit Cabinet meeting Bank, to West san politicians and businessmen in tow, Gov. Ron DeSantis made his first for eign trip since taking officemission development business toa leading Israel, Cabinet ever first state’s the holding and meeting on foreign soil. ment, the first officialbeyond “the green line” by a U.S. gov- trade mission While central Florida’s west coast bears Pinellas and Pasco Counties.’” numerous names – such as the Suncoast The Jewish Federation of Pinellas and Pasco and Pasco of Pinellas Federation The Jewish mailing list the expanded recently Counties If you do not with the Jewish Press. it shares contact the paper, to receive wish to continue call (727) 530-3223. or [email protected] ADVERTISEMENT After 11 were slain last year By BOB FRYER Jewish Press in a Pittsburgh synagogue for no reason other than being Jews, and when a worshiper at a Chabad in California was shot dead in April by a suspect with views, Jews throughout the nation radical right attacks similar if worried naturally could happen in their communi- At meeting, top cops pledge ongoing At meeting, top cops pledge ongoing security dialogue on Jewish community 16 PAGES 2019 11, JUNE 14 - JULY A KRISEMAN continued on PAGE 7 KRISEMAN continued on PAGE “I did Charlie one better,” he said, joking “I did Charlie one better,” (Despite Crist’s track record and Krise- Rabbi Joshua Lobel prayer also sought protection for his family. his for protection sought also prayer about how when fellow St. Petersburg resi- dent Charlie Crist he was used governor, to put prayers in the wall, asking for Florida to be spared from a hurricane. It seemed to tenure. work during Crist’s man’s prayers, the Jewish Press is not ad- lapse.) policies insurance your letting vising “Earlier this year, we welcomed our neighbors to the north in Hernando County as part of our service area,” noted Emilie Socash, executive director of the Federa- tion, “and began offering the Jewish Press, RABBI LOBEL continued on PAGE 6 RABBI LOBEL continued on PAGE www.jewishpresspinellas.com temple for 10 years, died at age 46 last Au- gust after a battle with brain can- cer. Earlier this year Rabbi David Novak came here from to serve Vermont as interim rabbi while the Israel MI Israel programs at www.TampaBayKravMaga.com. programs Owner and Instructor at Tampa Bay Krav Maga, a Bay Krav at Tampa Owner and Instructor Krav school in Largo. and fitness self-defense premier

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St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman has Keeping his city from those harms is in-

to boyhood trip and St. Pete now By BOB FRYER Jewish Press got us covered this hurricane season, and for good measure has the city covered for all manmade and natural disasters, too. cluded in a prayer he slipped inside a crack during at Wall a the Western recent visit to around from people for custom is as – Israel the world when they visit the The holy site. St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman places a note in the Western Wall while on a trip in mid-May Wall Western Mayor Rick Kriseman places a note in the Petersburg St. Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti. with five other mayors from around the United States and led by Los Mayor compares country today

Rabbi Trieser, leader of the

While Rabbi Joshua Lobel says

The new name is “The Jewish The federation serves all of Pinellas and The Jewish Federation of

VOL. 33, NO. 22 ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA PETERSBURG, ST. 22 NO. 33, VOL. spiritual leader on July 1. sumes duties as the temple’s new the late legacy rabbi’s when he as- him dearly and he hopes to carry on carry to hopes he and dearly him ple B’nai Israel in Clearwater loved Clearwater in Israel B’nai ple he knows Tem- the congregation at he never met Rabbi Daniel Treiser, Jewish Press Temple B’nai Israel Temple By BOB FRYER New rabbi to join

Federation changing name to reflect service area to reflect changing name Federation Tampa JCCs and Federation. JCCs and Federation. Tampa of Pasco. Eastern Pasco is serviced by the includes Hernando County. includes Hernando Gulf Coast.” Federation of Florida’s Hernando counties and the western portion panded area of service that now 1, to better reflect its recently ex- recently its reflect better to 1, changing its name, effective July effective name, its changing Pinellas and Pasco Counties is PAGE 2 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY UPCOMING ISRAELTRIPSJUNE 14 - JULY 11, 2019 IT ALL STARTS WITH YOU

Please visit www.jewishpinellas.org to GIVE make a tax-deductible gift in support NOW! of our Jewish community.

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PublICatIOn & DeaDlIne DateS The Jewish Press of Pinellas County is a privately STAFF owned, community newspaper published in JIM DAWKINS cooperation with the Jewish Federation of Pinellas & Publisher & Co-owner juLY 12 Pasco Counties. The Federation underwrites home KAREN DAWKINS of PINELLAS COUNTY • Established in 1986 delivery to every identified Jewish household in Managing editor & Co-owner Press Release ...... June 28 Pinellas County (approx.4,500), to promote Jewish Advertising Sales Advertising ...... July 2 An independent, bi-weekly newspaper owned by community cohesiveness and identity. GARY POLIN THE JEWISH PRESS GROUP of TAMPA BAY, INC. GALE TARNOFSKY-ABERCROMBIE THE FEDERATION MAINTAINs Staff Writer & editor AuGuST 9 Also publisher of the Jewish Press of Tampa THE MAIlINg lIsT FOR THE BOB FRYER www.jewishpresspinellas.com JEwIsH PREss. Ad Design & Graphics Press Release ...... 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Aug 13 Standard Class Postage Permit: taMPa PI #3763 JUNE 14 - JULY 11, 2019 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 3 When your Gift of Jewish music reaches Facebook friend Suncoast Hospice patients from middle By RACHEL FREEMAN Jewish Press school posts There’s nothing quite like hearing a familiar Jewish song. It reaches from Ha’aretz through to the heart, gets the toes tap- Facebook is a double-edge sword: connecting kids with Hispanic names. There’s something of ping and turns the corners of the lips people with its always-on abilities and soothing a crushing sense of conformity when you’re sur- into a big smile. our human inclinations toward snooping, while rounded by a homogenous sea, and you’re easily The gift of music is reaching Jewish also activating connections long in hibernation identified as the “other.” patients of Suncoast Hospice, thanks to a new program, “The Jewish Music that typically do not need to be roused. Which is why I find this particular article from Project. Kol Rina: Sounds of Joy,” We’ve all read about the great positives of these Ha’aretz – and more so, Carlos’s posting of it – to which aims to improve patients’ connections (such as reunited siblings) as well as be particularly interesting. As Jews, we’re used to lives by introducing songs that instill the down sides (marriages ended over rekindled being the “other,” whether it’s pointed out to us or feelings of comfort and memories of flames). A few years ago, I culled my Facebook just felt. And from his early years, Carlos chose to tradition. account to include only people with whom I make his otherness a little more quiet. In this very Kelly Siegel, community partner- would truly like to spend time with in real life. difficult article that he found compelling enough ship specialist at Empath Health, and Many of my childhood friends got the ax, but a to share, the consequences of identity, identifying Stacy Orloff, Empath Health vice few remained. Those who made the cut were not with a community, and why we affiliate all bubble president of innovation and com- only people who I would enjoy sharing coffee to the surface to shed light on what is an odd par- munity health, are behind the Jewish with, but also typically offer smart and witty allel in the history of both Germany and Israel. Music Project. Funding for the proj- social media banter. There’s no way that I can do justice to Rinon’s ect was provided through a grant from A recent post from my friend Carlos (not his piece, other than to offer this one selection as a the Jewish Federation of Pinellas & conversations are beyond, ‘Are you real name), caught my eye: “This article, you have jumping-off point to encourage you to read the Pasco Counties. comfortable?,’ or ‘How are you feel- to really read it to understand it, it makes some article online: Hospice patients are given a two- ing?’ It allows the family member to have a conversation that recalls good very good points that I’ve thought about, but have “The Nazis’ enforcement of this exclusion as hour playlist of music, spanning vari- ous genres including Broadway, holi- memories and creates new memories.” never been able to solidify in my own mind.” He the first step toward total extermination of the day, comedy, folk, Israeli, Klezmer, Orloff added, “The program has linked to an article from Ha’aretz entitled “Neither Jews made the need for them to create an op- Yiddish and more. The program is helped our patients share life stories, Israel’s nor Germany’s Slide Into Fascism Was posite and opposing Jewish identity a matter of available for patients staying at home, special memories and hopes and Accidental,” published June 6 and written by Yoav life and death. This Jewish identity was at once, in assisted living facilities or in skilled dreams for their family members’ Rinon. by necessity, both the complete opposite of and nursing homes. futures. The music provides another A bit about Carlos: He’s not Jewish, although the same as the identity of the Jew created by the “Not everyone is comfortable way for families to communicate I think that his recent research via one of the Nazis: The complete opposite – for it opened the talking about their feelings,” said together. Words are not often needed ancestry-tracing services revealed a potential same door that the Nazis shut, and the same – for Orloff. “We knew that providing mu- to convey love.” Jewish connection generations back through it was based on precisely the same foundation, sic would help some of our patients Siegel has also received words of his haplotype. He’s a history teacher at a public race.” internally reflect upon their feelings appreciation from program members school in our home state of Washington, and I In a nutshell, the identity which we see targeted and consider special moments in and suggestions for songs to add to haven’t seen him since the ninth-grade dance by antisemitism (essentially an amalgamation their lives. Plus, we just wanted them the track list. my school held to close out junior high. We at- of all possible iterations of what it means to be to enjoy listening to Jewish music.” “Families sound genuinely excited tended school together for at least five years and Jewish) is the same identity that we often fortify Some songs in the playlist include a when I call to offer the gift,” said Sie- gel. “Everyone likes to feel special. had the same program of advanced academics; (essentially an open call for any Jewish level of Barbra Streisand rendition of “Avina The program recreates joyful memo- I recall that in sixth grade we both had the same observance or identification as being singularly Malcheinu,” “Sunrise Sunset” by Theodore Bikel and a comedy rou- ries and allows them to be shared.” on-trend Levi’s denim jacket lined with fleece. Jewish). tine called “Bagel & Lox” by Rob Because Jewish music is an integral At some point in Junior High, we took a field Reading this dense consideration of the parallels Schneider. part of the faith and culture, listening trip to Seattle to see the Terra Cotta Warriors; at between the start of the German state (pre WWII) The playlist was developed with the to it has the power to transport people another time we competed in the state’s History and the foundations of Israel as a nation (both help of Rabbi Aaron Lever (Menorah to different times and places, remind- Day event. pre- and post-1948) comes at a uniquely interest- Manor), Rabbi Danielle Upbin (Con- ing them of traditions, culture, history Yet when I knew him, he went by “Charles.” ing time for me. On the day that this edition of gregation Beth Shalom of Clearwa- and roots. Revisiting these memories I didn’t even have an inkling that his name was the Jewish Press goes to print I will be landing in ter), Cantor Laura Berkson (Temple through music can comfort patients, Carlos for several years, when a substitute teacher Germany for a family vacation, and on the print- B’nai Israel of Clearwater) and Steve no matter their current level of in- performed roll-call and used his legal name. It ing of the July 12th edition I will be readying to Schwersky (retiring host of Sunday volvement in the Jewish community, struck me as mildly interesting then – and tremen- return home from a Federation mission to Israel. Simcha on WMNF-88.5 FM). according to the Kol Rina pamphlet dously interesting now – that he chose to keep Seeing these two nations in back-to-back context, The music playlist is downloaded that Siegel distributes to all patients his true name a secret. He felt he had to hide his and the challenging issues of identity that will onto MP3 players and distributed to in the program. and his family’s heritage and identity, taking an surely coalesce during these two very different Jewish program participants, along The music also benefits patients Americanized moniker. experiences. with a pamphlet that explains the by alleviating some psychological and social stress. The Jewish Music My grandmother and her sisters did the same Throughout history, we’ve continually rede- project and lists song names, artists and genres. A couple weeks after Project also helps patients in terms thing upon immigrating to the United States in the fined what it means to be Jewish, and I doubt that patients receive their music, Siegel of memory recall, mental stimulation 1950s: Perla became Pearl; Bekah became Betty. in my lifetime a singular concept will emerge and the hospice team check back in and management of pain, anxiety and Assimilation has a way of seeping into our core as the one (and only) way to “be,” “do,” or with them to evaluate the program’s depression, identities, serving as a shield to help us protect “identify” Jewish. I encourage you to read the effectiveness. “Anything to help the patient is either who we truly are, or who we don’t want Ha’aretz article (www.haaretz.com/israel-news/. Since the start of the program in worth it,” said Siegel. anyone to know. premium.MAGAZINE-neither-israel-s-nor- April, Siegel has heard stories about While the MP3 players are only In the part of Washington where Carlos and I germany-s-slide-into-fascism-was-acciden- patients finding joy and comfort in distributed to hospice patients, Siegel grew up, we found ourselves in the outskirts of the tal-1.7338787/1.7338787) and respond to me via the music. is happy to share the musical playlist national headquarters of white supremacy. That email at [email protected] to share your “This gift is allowing families to with anyone who is interested. She part of the nation isn’t remarkably diverse, and reflections and join me in considering how our engage in memorable and joyful can be reached at KellySiegel@Em- not particularly tolerant of young Jewish girls or identity is shaped. conversations,” said Siegel. “These pathHealth.org.

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Times Rebbe’s words on confirmands at the June 9 Shabbat ser- com by July 1. June 28 • 8:12 pm vice: Justin Ryan Aiken, Jacob Solo- Friday Night Live: Come jam vacations resonate mon Alolof, Landry Eisner Feldman, with Barbara Mazer Gross and the July 5 • 8:12 pm Peyton Eisner Feldman, Ilana Jo Jammin’ Jews in the all-purpose room July 12 • 8:11 pm By RABBI YOSSI EBER Heinz, Jarod Payton Layliev, Dylan for extended worship during erev Chabad of West Pasco Matthew Maller, Peyton Micha Na- Shabbat service on Friday, July 19 at July 19 • 8:09 pm As summer approaches, I’m sharing a letter written in 1952 math and Sophie Rose Silver. 7:30 p.m. from Lubavitcher Rebbe on how to best utilize our vacation Brotherhood outing: The time. temple’s Brotherhood will gather at Chabad of knowledge. The Monday class is Greeting and Blessing: Spectrum Field in Clearwater on Sat- held after minyan from 10 - 11:15 a.m. Vacation time is approaching, to release youth and children, urday, June 22 at 6:30 p.m. to take in of St. Petersburg and the Wednesday class is at 7 p.m. Lunch and Learn: Women are Lox & Learn: Explore the trea- boys and girls, from Yeshivoth, Talmud Torahs, Day Schools, a Threshers baseball game. Tickets are invited to share an hour of camarade- etc., for a long summer recess. available for purchase in advance for sures of the weekly Torah portion, rie, inspiration and delicious lunch at a led by Rabbi David Weizman, every The importance of a restful vacation is obvious. However, $15. Ticket purchase includes admis- Lunch and Learn session on Tuesday, certain aspects of vacation time should sion, burgers, hot dogs and chips. Thursday. Come for breakfast at 9:45 July 30 at noon. There is no charge a.m., minyan at 10 a.m., then discus- be examined carefully. Is vacation For more information, call Bill Ross for the event. RSVPs are appreciated, sion with the rabbi. time a stoppage of study, or is it a at (414) 350-6195. but not necessary. To RSVP: Chaya@ transition from one form of activity to ChabadSP.com or call (727) 344-4900. Chabad of Clearwater another? Cong. B’nai Israel Camp to hold open house: Torah and tea: Rebbetzin th In all living forms, there is no such St. Petersburg All are invited to a July 4 festival Miriam Hodakov leads a Torah thing as a stoppage of life, followed Summertime sermons: Musi- and open house at Camp Gan Israel. and Tea exclusively for women on by a completely new start, for a stop- cal Kabbalat Shabbat Services with a Children (accompanied by adult) are Wednesdays at 11:15 a.m. through July page of life is death, and cannot serve Glimpse into Jewish History & Shab- invited to join in the fun with laser 3, then the events are suspended from as a temporary rest period. There can bat Morning Summer Sermonettes, de- tag, game truck, carnival activities and July 10-31 before resuming on Aug. be a transition from one form of activ- livered by congregants, occur Fridays more. The cost is $10 per child. RSVP 2. There is no charge to attend. RSVP ity to another, but not a cessation or stoppage. at 6:30 p.m. from July 5 through Aug. to [email protected]. The to [email protected] or For example: The two most vital organs in our body are the 16 and Saturdays at 9 a.m. from July camp, open to kids in three different age (727) 265-2770. heart and the brain. The heart is the principal seat of “physi- 6 through Aug. 10. groups, runs from July 1-26 and it is cal” life; the brain is the principal seat of “intellectual” life. still not too late to register. Call (727) Chabad of West Pasco 344-4900 or go to www.myjewish- Because the heart and the brain have supreme control of the Temple Beth-El Torah class: Join weekly Torah camp.com for more information. body, they are called “the Sovereigns of the Body.” Now, study with Rabbi Yossi Eber on St. Petersburg Wednesdays from noon to 1 p.m. these organs not only do not cease to operate in a living body, Book Club: The book club will Temple B’nai Israel but they do not even undergo a radical change in their form of meet in the temple library on Wednes- activity. And inasmuch as the actions of the other organs are day, June 26 at 10:45 a.m. to discuss Clearwater Cong. Beth Tfillah/ Welcome to new rabbi: being led by the activity of the heart and brain, it follows that “The Address” by Fiona Davis. No Take JCC of West Pasco part in a family style barbecue on the other organs of the body, though they may seem to be in RSVP is needed. Adult B’nai Mitzvah: A new Friday July 5 at 5:45 p.m. to welcome a state of inactivity, as in the case of sleep, do not, in reality, Mah jongg: Join in mah jongg adult B’nai Mitzvah class will start on sessions for players of all levels of Rabbi Joshua Lobel as the temple’s Sunday mornings in June and already stop working. new rabbi. The dinner will be followed This is even more obvious in the case of breathing. We find experience on Wednesdays, June 26 three adults are in the process of pre- by Shabbat services at 7 p.m. Contact paring for their Bat Mitzvah’s in the that during sleep breathing is slowed down considerably, but and July 10 from 1-3 p.m. in the temple the temple office at (727) 531-5829 for fall. Any others who want to join in it never stops, for the “breath of life” must always be there. library. No RSVP is needed. Behind the stage: more information. should contact Marie Abrams at (727) Similarly in the case of students, boys and girls, study- A presenta- tion, “The Secret World of the Florida Adult play time: Join seniors to 847-3814 or email jccwestpasco@ ing our Torah, Torath-Chayim – “The Law of Life,” restful Orchestra – Backstage,” will be pre- play mah jongg, Mexican train domi- aim.com for current classes for sign vacation does not mean interruption and stoppage of Torah sented to the SAGE (Seniors for Arts, noes or bridge on Thursdays at 1 p.m. up for a fall class. and Mitzvoth, G-d forbid. It means only just another way of Growth & Education) group by Ella Coffee and cake will be served. For furthering their course of study, a period during which they M. Fredrickson, principal librarian more information, contact Linda Chabad of Spring Hill renew their mental abilities and increase their capacities for a with the orchestra, on Wednesday, White at [email protected] or Torah studies: The community more intensive study later on. July 17 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This (727) 276-3404. is invited to attend Torah study classes Therefore, my friends, bring light and holiness into your event takes place at the orchestra’s on Wednesdays from noon to 1 p.m. vacation time, by remembering always that it is the time of headquarters, 244 Second Ave., N., Cong. Beth Shalom The classes, taught by Rabbi Chaim preparation in order to improve the quality and quantity of fourth floor, in St. Petersburg.. Fred- Clearwater Lipszyc, are not sequential, so drop- your studies during study-time to follow. But let it not remain rickson will talk about aspects of Talmud classes: On Mondays ins are welcome. Brunch and coffee so only in your thoughts and intentions; be always united with concert production, music preparation, and most Wednesdays, explore ancient will be served. The first class is free our holy Torah in your everyday actions and conduct. Let not administration and management of the legal tradition with Dr. Priscilla Na- then $7 per class. For more informa- a single day pass without the “breath of life” provided by the music library. She is also the curator thanson. The class is open to all levels tion, call (352) 600-2779. “Torah of Life.” Let everyone have appointed times for the study of Chumash, Mishnah, Gemoro, and so on, each one according to his or her standard of Torah education. JNF offers chance to help write Torah atop Masada At this time, I wish everyone who is resolved to use his or For the first time, the public can be part of a unique piece The act of creating a new Torah is strenuous, with 304,805 her vacation in this productive “living” way – much success, of history as Jewish National Fund-USA (JNF-USA) offers letters to be written in Hebrew with a quill on calfskin or both during vacation, as well as on returning to normal study Be Inscribed, an opportunity to buy letters, sentences, por- parchment by a trained scribe. Be Inscribed prices vary and later on. tions, or an entire Torah scroll handwritten by a scribe atop begin at $36 for a letter, $90 for a word, $360 for a verse, the ancient cliff fortress of Masada. a paragraph at $540, a chapter at $1,800, a weekly portion The Rabbinically Speaking column is provided as a public Working in the same synagogue that once housed the at $3,600, and full Torah for $100,000. service by the Jewish Press. Columns are assigned on a rotat- Torahs of Masada, a scribe is writing new Torahs for JNF- With each Torah’s completion, which takes nine months ing basis by the Pinellas County Board of Rabbis. The views USA’s Be Inscribed. In 2004, the synagogue was rebuilt and to complete, JNF donates it to a community in either the Ne- expressed in this guest column are those of the rabbi and do in 2008, a room was reconditioned to comfortably house a gev Desert or the Galilee. The Alexander Muss High School not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Press or the scribe behind a glass wall, affording visitors the opportunity in Israel received the first Be Inscribed Torah last July. Board of Rabbis. to watch him at work. For more information, visit www.beinscribed.org. Religious Directory PINELLAS COUNTY Congregation BETH SHOLOM — 1844 54th St. S., Gulfport 33707 • Services: PASCO COUNTY Reform Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. • Telephone: (727) 321-3380 • Website: sholomgulf- Conservative port.org • Unaffiliated. Temple AHAVAT SHALOM — 1575 Curlew Rd., Palm Harbor, 34683 • Rabbi BETH TEFILLAH/JCC OF WEST PASCO — 9841 Scenic Drive, Port Richey, Gary Klein • Cantorial soloist, Allison Rosoff • Services: Friday: 7:30 p.m., Congregation B’NAI ISRAEL — 300 58th St. N., St. Petersburg 33710 • Rabbi 34668 • Ron Becker and Elliot Shapiro, spiritual leaders • Services: Friday, First Friday: 6 p.m., Saturday: traditional service third week of the month. Philip Weintraub • Cantor Jonathan Schultz • Services: Friday 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m., Saturday, 9:30 a.m. • Telephone: (727) 847-3814 • website: 9 a.m., call for other service times • Telephone: (727) 785-8811 • Website: Saturday 9 a.m., Mon. - Fri. 7:45 a.m., Sun. 9 a.m.; evening minyan, jccwestpascobethtefillah.net • Email at: Eileenhochstadt13005@gmail. www. ahavatshalom.org • Affiliated with Union for Reform Judaism 6:30 p.m. Sunday only at Toby Weinman ALF 6:00p.m.• Telephone: (727) com • Unaffiliated 381-4900 • Website: www.cbistpete.org.• Affiliated with United Synagogue Orthodox Temple BETH-EL — 400 S. Pasadena Ave., St. Petersburg 33707 • Rabbi of Conservative Judaism. CHABAD Of WEST PASCO — Rabbi Yossi Eber • 10733 Maple Creek Dr., Michael Torop • Services: Friday 7:30 p.m., Saturday, service and Torah Suite 101, Trinity, FL 34655 • Services: Saturday, 9:30 a.m.; class: 10 study, 10 a.m. • Telephone: (727) 347-6136 • Website: www.templebeth-el. Orthodox a.m., • Telephone: (727) 376-3366 • Website:www.ChabadWP.org • email: com • Affiliated with Union for Reform Judaism CHABAD of CLEARWATER — 2280 Belleair Road, Clearwater, 33764 • Rabbi [email protected] Levi Hodakov • Services: Call for information on Friday service times, Temple B’NAI ISRAEL — 1685 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater, 33764 • Interim Sunday, 9:30 a.m., men only • Telephone: (727) 265-2770 • Website: www. Rabbi David Novak • cantorial soloist, Laura Berkson • Services: Friday, HERNANDO COUNTY JewishClearwater.com • email: [email protected]. Reform 7:00 p.m. • Telephone: (727) 531-5829 • Website: www.TBIclearwater.org Temple BETH DAVID • Affiliated with Union for Reform Judaism CHABAD JEWISH CENTER Of GREATER ST. PETERSBURG — 4010 Park St. N., — 13158 Antelope St., Spring Hill • Rabbi Paul Schreiber • Shabbat Serivces: Friday, 7:30 p.m., third Friday traditional ser- Conservative St. Petersburg 33709 • Rabbi Alter Korf • Services: Saturday, 9:30 a.m.; Shacharit, Mon.-Thurs., 7:15 a.m., Torah study at 10:30 a.m. on Sturday, vice, 7:30 p.m. • Saturday, 10 a.m. • Telephone: (352) 686-7034 • Website: Congregation BETH SHALOM — 1325 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater 33764 • Sun., 8 a.m.; • Telephone: (727) 344-4900 • Website: www.chabadsp.com. www.tbdfl.org. • Livestreaming services. Rabbi David Weizman • Rabbi Danielle Upbin, associate • Services: Friday: Orthodox CHABAD of PINELLAS COUNTY 6:30 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m., Sunday 9 a.m., Mon. & Thurs 8:30 a.m., • Tele- — 3696 Fisher Road, Palm Harbor, 34683 • CHABAD SPRING HILL — 13576 Hunters Point St, Spring Hill, 34609 • Rabbi phone: (727) 531-1418 • Website: www.cbsclearwater.org • Livestreaming Rabbi Pinchas Adler • Services: Friday, 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. and Chaim Lipszyc • Services: Monthly First Friday call for times Telephone: services • Affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. 15 minutes before sunset • Sunday, 8:30 a.m. • Telephone: (727) 789-0408 (352) 600-2779 • Website: chabadspringhill.com • Website: Yichabad.com. JUNE 14 - JULY 11, 2019 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 5

St. Petersburg Chabad Jewish Center NEW NAME • CONTINUED from FRONT PAGE announces plans to move downtown and the Nature Coast – the board of directors agreed that the Gulf Coast most accurately By RACHEL fREEMAN captured the entirety of the Federation’s Jewish Press ning is currently underway. service area, which spans some 90 miles The Chabad Jewish Center of St. Peters- Recently, the Chabad Center has had to from the northernmost border at the Chas- burg has purchased property on Fourth Street rent out facilities in order to host events sahowitzka River to the southernmost tip at in downtown St. Petersburg with plans to that are too large for their current loca- Fort DeSoto Park. build a new, larger facility and move there tion at 4010 Park St. N., St. Petersburg. The Federation’s board of directors ap- from its current location on the western out- Many programs are challenging to run skirts of the city. off-site, according to Rabbi Alter Korf, proved the name change in March, but de- Chabad recently purchased a half acre of so having more space will help Chabad’s cided not to implement it until the new fiscal property at 533 Fourth St. N. with plans to events grow. year starts in July. build a modern, two-story building exceed- There are also plans to implement new The Federation is part of the larger Jew- ing 10,000 square feet, with onsite parking. programs and events in the state-of-the-art ish Federations of North America network, When completed, targeted for 2021, the center. and as such will remain branded similarly center will be the only Jewish denomina- Fundraising efforts are currently under with a circular flame icon. Additional modi- tion to have a home in the downtown area way in order to make the new center a re- fications will be nuanced, noted Socash, since both Temple Beth-El and Congrega- ality. So far, Chabad has already collected including a transition to the website www. tion B’nai Israel moved from Arlington more than half of its $5 million goal to jewishgulfcoast.org and new marketing Avenue facilities to their current locations cover construction costs. approach. in west St. Petersburg around 1959-60 “This is a unique opportunity to be part “This is an opportunity to celebrate our as the population was shifting. In the of incredible growth, from the ground up,” continued growth in serving the commu- 2017 demographics study of the Jewish said Rabbi Korf. “Multiple families have nity,” Socash said, “and it tells our story community, the 33701 Zip Code, which made six-figure donations. They feel it’s Areal view of the property purchased for the new so wonderfully. We’re expanding our pro- encompasses downtown St. Petersburg, the most suitable way to honor a loved Chabad facility along 4th Street North and 6th grams, growing our fundraising efforts, and has the second highest concentration of one, as well as having a lasting impact on Avenue North in St. Petersburg overall touching more lives. As the Jewish Jews in Pinellas. our community’s future.” engage and connect with Judaism, according Federation of Florida’s Gulf Coast, we’ll The new Chabad Center will have a The Chabad Jewish Center of Greater St. to Rabbi Korf. be describing who we really are – and who synagogue as well as a kosher commercial Petersburg will be open to every Jew, regard- There are still many naming opportunities we serve.” kitchen, classrooms, a spacious social hall, less of background or affiliation. The space available. Those wishing to find out more For more information about the Jewish rooftop deck, library and conference space. will leave a legacy on local Jewish life by can reach out to Rabbi Korf at Rabbi@ Federation, call (727) 530-3223 or visit The design development phase of the plan- serving as a place for future generations to ChabadSP.com or call (727) 344-4900. www.jewishpinellas.org.

Concert to commemorate 25th “Boiled & Baked anniversary of Rebbe’s death the traditional way As world Jewry prepares to mark The Rebbe left a legacy of melo- at the same location the 25th anniversary of the death dies, each accompanied with an an- for over 30 years!” of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi ecdote and message that he would Menachem Mendel Schneerson, share as he taught them. Together Tues. – Fri. 6:00 am – Noon the Chabad Centers of Pinellas they tell the story of the soul’s Oleg Geyer Sat. & Sun. 6:00 am – 1:00 pm and Pasco counties are gearing up yearning for something higher, as hear the music in the story, and for a unique concert and program well as the recognition that some- the story in the music,” said Rabbi 11 varieties of Bagels • 14 varieties of Cream Cheeses highlighting the remarkable legacy times the highest endeavor is to be Pinchas Adler of Chabad of Pinel- Smoked Salmon • Home-Made Rugelach left by the Rebbe. found in this mundane world. las County. Other Chabad centers Coffee Fresh Roasted & Brewed on premises daily “The Rebbe’s Niggunim: Songs At the June 30 event, six of these participating in this event are of the Inspired Soul,” will be held melodies – together with their sto- Chabad Center of St. Petersburg 1871 Gulf To Bay Blvd. (Clearwater) on Sunday, June 30 at 6:30 p.m. at ries– will be brought to life with and Chabad Center of West Pasco. ~ Next to Clearwater High School ~ Empath Health, 5771 Roosevelt a multimedia presentation and The event begins at 6:30 p.m. Blvd., Clearwater. string quartet led by Oleg Geyer, with a dessert reception and the JP (727) 446-7631 “Each year we honor the Rebbe’s a master violinist and member of program begins at 7 p.m. Tickets legacy with a communitywide Florida Orchestra. He is also the purchased by June 23 are $15 per event,” said Rabbi Levi Hodakov leader of Allegro String Quartet person or $25 per couple. After of Chabad of Clearwater. “This and a violin professor at St. Pe- June 23 the cost is $18 per person year, as we mark 25 years since the tersburg College. or $30 per couple. Rebbe’s passing, we were looking “This concert is a powerful To RSVP or for more informa- to do something really special. This experience in which words and tion, call (727) 789-0408 or visit event promises to do just that.” melody intermingle so that you www.ChabadSP.com

Evangelical pastors explain why they support Israel Early Dinner Special at Hadassah-sponsored event in Palm Harbor $18 per person 4 - 5:30 pm everyday includes soup or salad, choice of entree, and dessert. By JAMIE SHAPIRO tory. Defending the trustworthiness of Jewish wit- House wine, beer, well drinks – all $3.50 Jewish Press nesses before the New York courts, Alexander Ham- A group of Christians plans to travel to Washington ilton argued, “Why distrust the evidence of the Jews? Open: Mon- Thurs 11 am - 10 pm Fri - Sat 11 am - 11 pm Sun 4 pm - 10 pm D.C. this July to show their support and lobby to keep Discredit them and you destroy the Christian religion.” 211 2nd St. S. • St. Pete • gratzzigrille.com Israel a Jewish state. At the program, both pastors emphasized the impor- The organization bringing these people to D.C. is tance of getting out the truth about Israel as a means of Call now to reserve: 727.623.9037 called Christians United For Israel (CUFI) , which combating the negative and often incorrect informa- represents 6 million evangelicals, and two pastors from tion that is spread. the organization spoke at a program presented by the CUFI’s specific mission is to educate and empower Lylah Hadassah chapter on May 16. pro-Israel Christians, giving them the tools to make Pastor Scott Thomas, pastor at Free Life Chapel in Israel and its people stronger and safe. The primary We're Lakeland as well as the Florida State Director of CUFI, focus is to help Christians to understand their relation- back! and Pastor Anthony McDaniel, pastor of Abundant ship to Judaism and how Israel ties into that. Bruno s (727) 347-7389 BrunoBAKERY CAFÉ s Life Ministries in Largo, addressed the importance of The organization has a heavy presence on college Israel and the state of Christian support for the Jew- campuses where like the pro-Israel Jewish students We want OUR family bakery to be YOUR family’s bakery ish State. they are taking on those advocating for BDS – Boycott, 3993 TYRONE BLVD. • IN THE LIGHTHOUSE CROSSING PLAZA Divestment and Sanctions – against Israel. “We’ve got to stand together, we’ve got to do this • From-scratch Breads including our DELICIOUS Challah as one,” Thomas told about 50 people gathered for the The group hopes that their presence in the nation’s • Fresh-from-the-oven Cookies and Pastries program at Temple Ahavat Shalom in Palm Harbor. capital this July will inform more individuals about Since Christianity’s roots are in Judaism, it is impor- the good the Jewish State represents and encourage • Made-to-order Deli sandwiches tant that Christians not forget the Jewish people, but more Christians to stand shoulder to shoulder with • Handcrafted Cakes offer their hands in support, McDaniel said. the Jews. • Gourmet Coffee “This is an organization that does so much good for But Thomas said that not all Christian denomina- • Catering for all occasions tions see Israel in the same way, which affects their Israel and for the Jewish people by teaching Christians EAT HERE OR TAKE HOME level of support. about Israel and the righteousness of Israel’s cause,” @brunosbakerycafe Hours: Tues.-Fri: 8:30-5:30 • Sat: 8:30-6 • Sun: 8:30-3 As an evangelical, Thomas explained, “We are not said Rabbi Gary Klein of Temple Ahavat Shalom. just Christians we are Judeo-Christians. That’s a dif- Rabbi Klein and Rabbi David Weizman of Congre- gation Beth Shalom in Clearwater served as modera- ference maker. Christianity without Judaism is a cult. They help make the We do not have the ability to explain our existence tors for the discussion. Support without Judaism.” Hadassah Vice President Evelyn Schreiber-Steckler Jewish Press possible. Such sentiments have deep roots in American his- organized the program. Our Advertisers! PAGE 6 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY JUNE 14 - JULY 11, 2019 New program hopes to forge connections through Jewish culture, community, education By RACHEL FREEMAN educator. aged his students to behave by promising further knowledge.” Jewish Press “We are proud to offer the first educational them rap performances at the end of each The panel will include geriatric specialist A new initiative aims to connect members initiative of its kind in our community, one session. Inspired by his students’ enthusiasm Dr. David LeVine, Dr. David Bernstein, of the Jewish community of all ages through that reaches out to multi-generations and all and interest in his biblical rap style, Barr cre- author of “The Power of 5 The Ultimate a series of educational and cultural events backgrounds,” said Rabbi Upbin. “I think ated the nonprofit Bible Raps, which gives Formula for Longevity and Remaining over the next year. that there is a lot of potential for this program students the opportunity to produce beats Youthful;” dietitian and nutritionist Liat Called Kesher: The Connection, the pro- to bring people together and appreciate the and write lyrics that reflect their own beliefs Golan; psychologists Dr. Michael Smith and gram is sponsored by the Jewish Federation value of being part of a larger community.” about Jewish lessons. Dr. Geoffrey Peale; and Judy Ludin, certified of Pinellas and Pasco Counties in conjunc- The first Kesher program, Chai Life: Young attendees at the Chai Life event will yoga instructor. tion with local congregations. (Kesher is Health, Self and Community, will take place perform their Jewish inspired rap song with The cost, including lunch, is $5 per person, Hebrew for connection). at Temple B’nai Israel, 1685 S. Belcher Road, Barr for the adult attendees at the conclusion capped at $20 per family. Each of the Kesher events is designed Clearwater, on Sunday, Aug. 18 from 9 a.m. of the program. A fall Kesher program will take place on to create lasting connections within the to 12:30 p.m. Lunch will be served at the Adults will have the opportunity to learn Sunday, Nov.24 at the Seminole Campus community and to encourage people of all conclusion of the program. tips about living their best lives at any age. of St. Petersburg College. The topic will be ages, backgrounds and affiliations to plug There will be different activities available A panel of local health experts will cover an Speaking and Living our Values. into Jewish culture together, said Maxine for youth and adults. array of wellness topics, ranging from the dif- The third and final Kesher event sched- Kaufman, director of Arts, Culture and Children and teens will create a Jewish ficulties of parenting in today’s world (open uled so far, Connect to Israel, will be held Education. rap performance with the help of featured to all child caretakers), to nutrition and yoga, on Sunday, April 26. More details, includ- The Federation expects about 200 at- guest educator, hip-hop artist Matt Barr, “The to Jewish text study, to tips on aging well. ing location specifics, will be available in tendees at each program, from preschoolers Bible Rapper.” “We have an impressive slate of doctors, November. and their families, to seniors and everyone Barr describes himself as “a distinct educators and wellness experts who will RSVP via www.jewishpinellas.org. Con- in between. hip-hop/folk fusion of Bob Dylan and Lil’ share their talent and knowledge for the first tact Rabbi Upbin at rabbidani@jewishpinel- Rabbi Danielle Upbin, associate rabbi of Wayne.” After moving to New York to pursue time under one roof,” said Rabbi Upbin. “The las.org or call the Federation office at (727) Congregation Beth Shalom in Clearwater, is his music career in 2006, Barr began teaching goal is to offer a variety of subjects and ses- 530-3223 for any questions regarding the the program’s coordinator and community Hebrew School parttime, where he encour- sions that will spark curiosity, interest and Kesher programs. Menorah Manor resident who survived Holocaust is ‘champion of life’ By MORIAH SUBAR sent to the Ravensbrück women’s said, ‘Natalie, I’ll make sure you and exhibits so much joy, in spite Special to the Jewish Press concentration camp in northern get home. I’ll help you find them.’” of what she went through. She is a Natalie Grauer is an important Germany, where she worked in The doctor helped Natalie and true champion of life.” part of the fabric of the Samson an ammunitions factory and in the two friends get to the Russian Later, when Maurice moved into Nursing Center at Menorah Manor crematorium, sorting clothes. border, where they were given two the Marion and Bernard L. Samson in St. Petersburg. “When we arrived, they sepa- horses, a buggy, and some food. Nursing Center, Natalie became She is known for frequently rated us into two groups,” Natalie Natalie, who had a pony when she a Menorah Manor volunteer in visiting other residents who have a said. “One on the left and one on little, took the lead in driving them her spare time. When she wasn’t hard time getting out of their rooms. the right. One side survived; the to Poland. After arriving in Vas- visiting with her husband, she Sometimes she brings snacks, and other didn’t.” chow, Poland, Natalie train-hopped visited residents in the Bresler Al- sometimes she just brings a smile In April 1945, as Soviet forces to Krakow. She walked 7 miles zheimer’s Program. Natalie, who and some conversation. Always, rapidly approached, Natalie and ap- from the train station, in the middle speaks English, Hebrew, German, she is warm and loving. proximately 20,000 other prisoners of the night, to her grandmother’s Polish, and Yiddish, would speak “I do it because I know how they were ordered to exit the camp on a house. Miraculously, she and her the language that the resident was Natalie Grauer feel,” she said. “I know what it feels brutal evacuation toward northern family were reunited. most comfortable with. son Nursing Center for nearly five like to be alone.” Mecklenburg. Natalie, then 15 “My parents and sisters survived Natalie also worked in the gift years, still visits with other resi- Those who know Natalie un- years old, marched for a week with the war,” she said. “Not only did shop and helped establish Menorah dents whenever she has the chance. derstand exactly what she means. no food or water. they survive, but they had taken in Manor’s popular Baking Buddies She also enjoys Shabbat services, The 90-year-old is a Holocaust “My feet almost gave out,” she children from Auschwitz.” program. attending Baking Buddies, paint- survivor. said. “My friends said, ‘Don’t give With her whole life now ahead “Natalie has been and still is one ing and making beaded jewelry, Born in Krakow, Poland, in up.’ They said they would pull me of her, Natalie later went on to of our most dedicated volunteers,” and spending time with her friends 1929, Natalie is the oldest of four by my hair, by my ears, if they meet her future husband, Maurice said Bonnie Berman, director of and family. She has two daughters, children. She lived in the Krakow had to.” Grauer, at a displaced persons camp volunteer services at Menorah Marlene and Sofia, and two sons, Ghetto, one of the five major Jewish Natalie did not give up. She and in Germany. The couple married Manor. “She is a warm, loving per- William and Sam. Ghettos created by Nazi Germany the rest of the surviving women on in 1947 and traveled the world son who gives so much of herself When she recently celebrated during its occupation of Poland in the march were liberated when So- together in search of a safe haven. to others.” her 90th birthday in February in the World War II. The boundaries of the viet forces intersected their route. They lived in Israel, Germany, After Maurice passed away, Samson Nursing Center, more than ghetto were enclosed by barbed- They were taken to a hospital to Australia, and New Jersey, eventu- Natalie briefly moved to Arizona 50 of her family and friends came wire fences and stone walls. recover, where Natalie was told that ally settling in Palm Harbor, where to be near her daughter. When she to celebrate with her. “It was no way to live,” Natalie she weighed 87 pounds. they became founding members of began losing her vision, she had her “Our mom has taught us a great said. As she recuperated, her doctor Temple Ahavat Shalom. heart set on returning to Florida to deal,” said Marlene Zycter, Nata- As deportations to Auschwitz offered to adopt her and take her to “She’s such a beautiful human live at Menorah Manor. lie’s daughter, during the celebra- began, Natalie was eventually cap- the United States with him. being,” said Janice Caine, whose “I knew the people, I knew the tion. “Take care of family, be fair, tured and sent to the Mauthausen “I couldn’t do it,” Natalie said. husband worked closely with Nata- place,” Natalie said. “It was the be kind, be generous of heart and concentration camp. She was then “I wanted to find my family. So he lie on the bingo program at Temple only place I wanted.” spirit, believe in yourself, be hon- Ahavat Shalom for many years. Natalie, who has been a resident est, and most importantly – never “She is the most positive person at the Marion and Bernard L. Sam- give up.” RABBI LOBEL • Continued from FRONT PAGE Lobel and his wife are from New York, he growing congregation searched for a permanent replacement. up in Queens and her in the Bronx, and they met in After five years as rabbi at Congregation Beth El in high school. Missouri City, TX, Rabbi Lobel and his wife Elizabeth He graduated from Boston University with a and three children – Avi, 9, Chai, 5 and Benjy, who bachelor’s in religious studies, specializing in Judaic was only 10-days old when he was interviewed by the studies, then went to Hebrew Union – Jewish Institute Jewish Press on May 23 – are moving to Clearwater of Religion in New York, with a year of study in Jeru- where they hope to find a spiritual home for many salem. He was ordained in 2007. years to come. The couple was married by the time they were in And his vision for the temple? In a statement he Jerusalem and he said they loved touring the country, sent to the congregation, Rabbi Lobel said, “During “and getting to know the people and the land … we my years as a rabbi, I have learned there is nothing fell in love with the country, people, food and culture. more critical to the vibrancy of a congregation and the It was a very meaningful, formative experience.” Jewish world than the creation of meaningful relation- After his ordination, Rabbi Lobel was assistant rabbi, ships. It is all about being part of a caring, welcoming then associate rabbi at Temple Chaverim in Plainview, community, where Jews, regardless of age, race or NY, until 2012 while his wife studied to become a child sexual orientation, feel at home.” psychiatrist. Then they moved to California, where he Rabbi Lobel said on his first visit to Clearwater he served as associate rabbi at Congregation Shir Hadash met staff and search committee members and “I got in Los Gatos, CA, from 2012-14. In 2014 he became to tell my journey and to learn about the synagogue rabbi at Beth El in Missouri City, just outside of Hous- 163 107th Avenue • Treasure Island, FL 33706 • 727.360.9151 and what drives and motivates them. I felt good when ton, and endured, with his congregation, the ravages Hours: Tues - sat 4-10 pm • sun. & Mon. Closed it was time to head back to Texas.” of Hurricane Harvey. Homes were destroyed, but he Soon he was called back for a second interview and said the congregation remained strong and became NIgHTLy EArLy dINNEr susHI TuEsdAy his family came with him. They took in a visit to the even more close knit. sPECIALs 6 pm - close beach and Lenny’s restaurant and he got to lead a Torah His new temple family will welcome him at a bar- reservations recommended Includes Entrée, soup or salad study and an interactive seminar. becue and Shabbat service on Friday, July 5. Diner is $12 drINK sPECIALs “I love teaching, so that was a great experience,” at 6 and the service is at 7 p.m. Cost for dinner is $15 4 - 6 pm Must be seated by 5:45 pm he said, adding that at dinner with a member of the for adults; $5 for kids ages 5-15. For reservations, call $5 House Wine temple community, his family got to meet some young the temple office at (727) 531-5829. reservations recommended $5 single shot well drinks or martinis families from the temple “and that made a big impact Rabbi Lobel will be just the fifth permanent rabbi in CATErINg & PrIVATE PArTIEs on us. The chance to meet other moms and kids was the temple’s 70-year history, starting with Rabbi Harry thepearlfinedining.com E-mail Catherine for more info: very comforting for my wife and kids.” Richmond, Rabbi Marshall Taxay, Rabbi Arthur Base- [email protected] Though they are coming here from Texas, Rabbi man and Rabbi Treiser. JUNE 14 - JULY 11, 2019 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 7 KRISEMAN • CONTINUED from FRONT PAGE The trip to the Western Wall was just one of the stops Kriseman and four other mayors from U.S. cities made as they toured Israel in mid- May. They went to learn about the nation’s culture and history and to explore what it has to offer from a high-tech and governmental point of view. For Kriseman it was his second trip to Israel, the first one coming 42 years ago when he was only 15 and went there with his dad. Back then Israel had not yet earned its “Start-Up Nation” reputation and (L-R) Shane Bemis, mayor of Gresham, OR; Kathleen Sheehan, mayor of Albany, NY; Eric Kriseman had no city to worry St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriesman visited Tel Aviv, home to many tech Garcetti, mayor of Los Angeles; U.S. Ambassador David Friedman; Michelle De La Isla, companies, and said his city has many of the same qualities that attract about or promote. mayor of Topeka, KS; Rick Kriseman, St. Petersburg mayor. tech people to Tel Aviv. On the first trip, he recalled see- ing a lot of Chassidic-looking men were the first bipartisan delega- tion and also met with the mayor seeking peace. St. Petersburg already possesses in beards and black hats, and this tion to participate in a weeklong of Tel Aviv. When the group visited the Pales- and has contributed to it attracting time some had the same look, but educational seminar under the The group was among the first tinian city of Ramallah in the West similar companies. the population and manner of dress auspices of a pact between the U.S. delegations to meet with US Am- Bank, Dr. Faisal Awartani, CEO As for immigration issues and were more diverse. Conference of Mayors and AJC. bassador David Friedman at the of Alpha Institute for Research diversity, the group spoke with an As a Jew, Kriseman said, he felt The delegation of mayors was new embassy in Jerusalem. While at and Polling, had some very telling Ethiopian and Russian immigrant good to be in the homeland of Jews, chaired by Eric Garcetti, mayor the embassy, Tal Becker, principal polling results, showing unem- on their experiences in moving to to have a Shabbat dinner in Israel of Los Angeles, and included the deputy and legal advisor to Israel’s ployment among Palestinians in Israel. The Russian woman said and to know no matter where he mayors of Topeka, KS; Albany, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, shared the West Bank was at 17 percent, she felt the urge to meld into her was or where he looked, about 90 NY, and Gresham, OR, as well as his insights about peace talks with while in Gaza it is at 52 percent, new country’s society completely, percent of those around him were Kriseman. AJC CEO David Harris Palestinians. Becker has been one and especially high among youths to the point where she later felt she fellow Jews. He recalled that dur- joined the mayors’ delegation for of the principal peace negotiators “which is why you see so much had lost some of her original iden- ing his days in the Florida Legisla- their opening dinner. during Bush, Clinton, Obama and violence there.” tity. The Ethiopian spoke of how ture, the sessions would open with The seminar aimed to give the Trump administrations. In a meeting with an Israeli Ethiopian Jews are better accepted prayers that nearly always invoked mayors a first-hand understanding of “One of the most profound things brigadier general in the Golan in Israel now than when they started the name of Jesus, but in Israel, it Israel’s economic and social entre- he said is the relation between Jews Heights the mayors heard about the coming in the 1990s. felt like home. preneurship, its democracy, diverse and Palestinians needs to be viewed challenges with Hezbollah and in Kriseman said St. Petersburg He described his visit to the society and regional challenges. like a divorce,” Kriseman said, getting the economy moving. aims to make people from all over Western Wall and Yad Vashem, Among the highlights were op- adding that Becker said negotia- Of course, Kriseman found com- the world feel welcome. “We try to commemorating victims of the portunities to meet with Israeli tors “should not be thinking of who parisons between life in Israel and create an atmosphere where people Holocaust, were “incredibly mov- President Reuven Rivlin, high- caused the divorce, but how you get St. Petersburg. can come and be themselves. That ing experiences.” ranking government officials, along going forward for the sake of Kriseman said many of the quali- does not mean we do not have Kriseman, four other mayors, leaders of Israel’s minority com- the children.” ties that contribute to an environ- people with prejudicial beliefs a tour guide and a representative munities, and Jewish and Arab civil Becker said in a way, the idea ment for tech companies to flourish and racial bias, but the majority of of the American Jewish Com- society leaders. The group also met of justice is an obstacle to the in Tel Aviv – quality of life, a young people here welcome others and mittee (AJC), traveled around with Einat Wils, a former member peace process because both sides population, a coastal community, a are tolerant. I think we all strive to the country as part of AJC’s of the Knesset, to get an overview are incentivized to bring up all very health conscious community, be that community. We want to be Project Interchange for intensive of Israeli politics. They visited the the ways in which they feel they great night life and a thriving arts a city of opportunity where the sun dialogue and briefings. They Peres Center for Peace and Innova- have been wronged instead of and culture scene – are qualities shines on all.”

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DeSANTIS Israel Innovation Partnership and removal from the list • CONTINUED from FRONT PAGE a new pact between Space Florida came because Airbnb Rep. Chris Sprowls, who represents and the Israel Space Agency. reversed a policy of re- North Pinellas County. Rachel “This historic mission has been fusing to list rental units Feinman, executive director of the the prelude to future prosperity in Israeli West Bank Florida Israel Business Accelerator and partnership between Florida settlements (see related (FIIBA) headquartered at Tampa’s and Israel. We established an story, page 9). Bryan Glazer Family JCC, also was unprecedented number of alli- Also while in the West part of the large delegation. ances in science, business and Bank, the governor vis- In addition to the Cabinet meet- academia. We affirmed our soli- ited Ariel University ing and visits to numerous Israeli darity with Israelis and resolved to and was presented with businesses and cultural, religious give no quarter to anti-Semitism,” an Honorary Fellow- and historical sites, DeSantis and DeSantis said. ship Award “for his cabinet members met with Benja- “Returning to Florida, we bring dedication, leadership min Netanyahu on the day after the with us prospects for investment, and commitment to the Israeli prime minister failed to form high-wage jobs, water conserva- state of Israel.” Those At their ceremonial Cabinet meeting at the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem, (L-R) Attorney Gen. a governing coalition, triggering tion and innovative ideas to keep present at the ceremony Ashley Moody, Gov. Ron DeSantis, CFO Jimmy Patronis and Nikki Fried, Commissioner of another election. our schools and communities safe,” included American phi- Agriculture. Miriam Fuld, far left, the wife of Ari Fuld, an Israeli American man who was he said. “We also carry home a lanthropists and Re- killed in a terrorist attack beyond the Green Line in September 2018, discussed the need Among his activities, DeSantis to stand strong against terrorism. Ari Fuld, a 45-year-old father of four, was stabbed by a prayed at the Western Wall where renewed belief that peace, freedom publican mega-donors Palestinian teen outside of a shopping mall. and democracy are essential to our Sheldon Adelson and he placed two prayers, one for ficials participating. Legislators on quality of life and are to be cham- Dr. Miriam Adelson. Business Florida’s safety this hurricane sea- the trip have said they are looking pioned, cherished and never taken “This recognition means a lot and More than 10 meetings and son and the other from a Panhandle into adding safety features they saw for granted.” I am humbled to be the recipient. events with Israeli companies and girl who lost her house in Hurricane at Israeli schools such as having When DeSantis crossed the Let it be known that Florida will business leaders to recruit new Michael, according to the South only one entry point with security “green line” into the West Bank, he always stand with Israel, our investments and bring high-wage Florida Sun-Sentinel. stationed there. visited an Israeli settlement in the greatest ally in the Middle East,” jobs to Florida. Among the compa- The governor also planted a tree Additionally, there was a net- Gush Etzion region. There, he held DeSantis said. nies visited were Rafael, a military at the Kennedy Peace Garden, working reception hosted by VISIT talks with Israeli officials about the Among other mission highlights and defense technologies devel- laid a wreath at Yad Vashem and FORIDA with Israel Minister BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanc- are: opment firm; Cellebrite, a digital delivered the keynote address to of Tourism Yariv Gideon Levin, tion) movement against certain Academics intelligence platform developer; the 2019 Israel-American Business networking lunches with Israeli Israeli businesses. The governor The tour included participation Israel Discount Bank, a financial Summit. business leaders and a networking criticized BDS as unfair to Israelis of Florida A&M University, Flori- services firm with commercial He established more than 20 dinner with business leaders hosted and heard from Israeli officials who da Atlantic University, Florida Gulf services as well as private do- strategic partnerships and Memo- by Israel Bonds. randums of Understanding (MOU) said the movement actually does Coast University, Florida Institute mestic and international banking; MOUs harm to Palestinians. of Technology, Florida Interna- Nobactra, an agricultural research between Florida institutions and Numerous Memorandum of Un- It was during that visit that tional University, Florida State firm specializing in plant disease ones in Israel. The MOUs included derstandings were signed between DeSantis said he would remove University, Full Sail University, solutions, including citrus green- agreements between leading uni- Florida and Israeli universities Airbnb from the state’s blacklist of Miami Dade College, Saint Leo ing – a topic of key importance to versities in Florida and Israel, as for collaboration and research. companies to do business with. The University, University of Central Florida; Stemrad, which special- well as an extension of the Florida- The MOUs included pledges of Florida, University of Miami, Uni- izes in protective equipment for student and faculty exchanges and versity of North Florida, University radiation and opened operations in cooperative research opportunities, of South Florida. Tampa after coming to the Bay area including in marine science, engi- Politics through FIBA. neering, invasive species, harmful A number of meetings with Other companies visited include blooms, social anxiety disorders government officials were held to SpacePharma, a leading Israeli sat- among children, medical trauma strengthen the ties and synergy be- ellite agency; Nano Dimension, an training and agriculture. tween Florida and Israel. In addition electronic manufacturing compa- Pacts also were signed between to his meeting with Netanyahu, he ny; INSIGHTEC, a leading techno- Space Florida and the Israel Space held a joint press conference with logical medical device company; Agency and between Space Florida Gilad Erdan, Israel Minister of Pub- Attenti, which provides innovative and the Israel Innovation Authority. lic Security, Strategic Affairs and solutions for law enforcement and There was also an agreement be- Information. DeSantis also received corrections agencies; B.G. Tech, a tween Florida and Israel’s Ministry a briefing from Yuvel Rotem, Direc- service and maintenance company of Tourism to increase bilateral tor General of Israel’s Ministry of for micro-electronics. The delega- tourism. Yet another pact was made Foreign Affairs. DeSantis met with tion also met with Gonen Usishkin, between the Florida Chamber of U.S. Ambassador David Friedman CEO of El Al Airlines. Commerce, the Israel-American and the Florida delegation attended Roundtable talks, networking Chamber of Commerce and the a reception at the ambassador’s DeSantis and Florida Depart- Federation of Israeli Chambers residence in Tel Aviv. ment of Environmental Protection Noah Valenstein led a roundtable of Commerce to promote greater discussion on water challenges fac- cooperation, strategic partnerships, ing Florida and Israel technologies and trade and investment between that are relevant. Israel and Florida. The governor also led a round- Still another pact addresses collab- table talk on school safety and oration between Florida and Israel in security, with Florida and Israeli of- the field of emergency management. JUNE 14 - JULY 11, 2019 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 9 Governor DeSantis inks bill banning anti-Semitism in public schools Following a ceremonial signing public educational institution to in Jerusalem, Gov. Ron DeSantis, treat discrimination by students back in Tallahassee, signed into law or employees or discrimination an anti-Semitism bill. resulting from institutional policies The official signing took place motivated by anti-Semitism, in an on May 31 but earlier in the week identical manner to discrimination while in Israel, DeSantis signed motivated by race. the bill with Cabinet members The bill also adds a definition Attorney General Ashley Moody, of anti-Semitism similar to the Florida Chief Financial Officer definition adopted by the U.S. Jimmy Patronis and Agricultural State Department’s Special Envoy Commissioner Nikki Fried look- to Monitor and Combat Anti- ing on. Among others present Semitism, providing that “anti- were House bill sponsor state Semitism” is a certain perception Rep. Randy Fine, and state Rep. of Jewish people, which may be Chris Sprowls of north Pinellas expressed as hatred toward Jew- County. ish people, rhetorical and physical The ceremonial signing in Israel of the anti-Semitism bill. Seated to the left of Gov. Ron DeSantis is State Rep. Randy Fine of Brevard County, who was the lead sponsor of the legislation. The new law adds religion as violence against Jews, his or her a protected class with regard to property, or toward Jewish com- of it a behavior not expected or effort that anti-Semitism has no Declaring Florida the “most Is- discrimination against students munity institutions or religious demanded of any other democratic place in our state and our educa- rael friendly state in the country,” and employees in Florida’s public facilities. It also includes Holo- nation.” tional institutions will not tolerate DeSantis said, “I was especially education system from kindergar- caust denial and “applying double “I’m proud to sign this bill to discrimination against the Jewish proud to hold a ceremonial bill ten through college. It requires a standards” to Israel “by requiring make clear through a bipartisan people,” said DeSantis. signing in Jerusalem.”

Airbnb removed from state’s blacklist INVESTMENT SERVICES The battle between Florida The state suspended the use of Gov. Ron DeSantis and Airbnb Airbnb for state-paid travel and ended earlier this month when the had considered preventing its pen- The Abelson Group at Morgan Stanley governor announced, a week after sion fund from investing in the firm David Abelson, CFP ®, CIMA® concluding a business mission trip when it goes public. Managing Director to Israel, that Airbnb would be re- Florida law allows for sanctions Senior Portfolio Management Director moved from the state’s blacklist of against any company that engages Financial Advisor “Scrutinized Companies.” in Boycott, Divestment and Sanc- Airbnb was placed on the list tions (BDS) actions and Airbnb when it announced in January it was seen as meeting that criteria. Adam Abelson would not list rental properties in Contending it never supported the Financial Advisor West Bank Israeli settlements, a BDS movement, Airbnb reversed policy pro-Palestinians supported its policy on West Bank settlement and one Gov. DeSantis labeled as listings in April. That prompted Ranked by Forbes “Best in State Wealth Advisors” discriminatory to Israel. the SAB to recommend taking the in the United States for 2018 & 2019 While in Israel, State Admin- company off the blacklist. istration Board trustees Attorney “Today’s action by the SAB Ranked by Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” General Ashley Moody and CFO Trustees illustrates Florida’s in the United States for 2019, 2018, 2017 & 2016 Jimmy Patronis joined DeSantis in willingness to acknowledge when accepting the recommendation to companies correct their mistakes delete the vacation rental company and do the right thing,” said De- from the blacklist. Santis. Israel’s Supreme Court chief says Justice minister fomenting anarchy JERUSALEM (JTA) – Israel’s nel 12 News he was prepared to Supreme Court chief justice ac- disobey Supreme Court rulings. He cused the country’s new justice later clarified his comments in a minister of inciting anarchy. Facebook post, saying that he “gave Esther Hayut made the remark an example of an extreme case that after Amir Ohana suggested that happened in reality.” not every high court ruling must Hayut responded the following be enforced if it goes against his day, saying that a justice minister view of what is needed to keep “who chooses to share with us an citizens safe. unprecedented and irresponsible Ohana, a loyalist of Prime Min- legal outlook that not every ruling ister Benjamin Netanyahu, also of the court has to be respected said that he supports any prospec- should be viewed with gravity.” tive legislation that would grant “In other words, every litigant the prime minister immunity from can now, with the blessings of prosecution while in office. Netan- the justice minister, choose which yahu is facing indictment in at least judgment to uphold and which to With spacious private apartments, three corruption cases. not. I want to say only one thing In his first interview since his ap- about this: This is the short road to pointment Ohana told Israel’s Chan- anarchy.” Restaurant-style Kosher dining & 24/7 personal care, Free showing of movie on Jews of Tampa July 6 A free screening of the documen- centuries, Jewish immigrants who We’re here to cater to you! tary, “Seders & Cigars – A History faced conscription and consequent of Jews in Tampa,” will be held persecution in Europe came to on Saturday, July 6 at 2:30 p.m. at Tampa – particularly West Tampa the Tampa Theatre in downtown and Ybor City – and opened retail VISIT US ON THE WEB Tampa. businesses to support the demand WWW WEINBERGVILLAGE ORG The documentary by Barbara created by the rapidly expanding . . Rosenthal, which premiered earlier cigar industry. Family members CALL US TODAY this year at the Tampa Bay Jewish and extended family followed one Film Festival, explores a variety another here in search of a better 813.969.1818 of themes including overcoming life. quotas on Jewish immigration, the The movie runs little more than challenge of maintaining extended an hour. Following the screening, family bonds in a competitive there will be a short discussion and economic environment, cultural audience Q & A with Rosenthal, assimilation, the nexus of anti- who will provide a look into world Semitism and segregation, and the of independent documentary film- 13005 Community Campus Drive • Tampa, FL 33625 rise of women in politics in Tampa making. On the Maureen and Douglas Cohn Jewish Community Center Campus and beyond. The showing is sponsored in part AHCA LIC. # 08679 In the late 19th and early 20th by the Jewish Film Festival. Kosher Facility - Diversity Welcome PAGE 10 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY JUNE 14 - JULY 11, 2019

Photo by Larry Herskowitz Gabriel Gavi enjoyed both his marsh- Engaging social programming • Luxury transportation • 24-hr access to staff mallows and a snow cone during Lag • Private studio, one-bedroom & two-bedroom apartments B’omer festivities. • Access to Eckerd College programs, a national leader in lifelong learning STUNNING WATERFRONT VIEWS Photo by Larry Herskowitz Two Lag B’Omer A huge bonfire blazes at Chabad of Clearwater as children look on. 727.866.3124 celebrations held in Pinellas Crowds gathered in St. Peters- burg and in Clearwater to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Lag B’Omer last month, with food, fun and bon- fires at both locations. At Chabad of Clearwater more than 100 people turned out for the event, including many children who enjoyed moon bounces and 4600Support 54th Avenue South,Our St. Advertisers! Petersburg, FL 33711 snow cones as well as a bonfire and They help make the possible. family picnic. Twelve children in Assisted LivingJewish Facility #6140 Press attendance led the recitation of 12 special Torah passages. They help make the Jewish Press possible. Photo courtesy of Chabad of St. Petersburg At Chabad of St. Petersburg, the Support Our Advertisers! Roasting marshmallows at the Lag B’Omer bonfire was a popular pastime in St. big attraction for the kids was a pet- [ ] Petersburg. ting zoo, while for folks of all ages there was music by Michael Malka and a barbecue dinner. Roasting marshmallows took Support Our Advertisers! place over bonfires at both locaions. They help make the Jewish Press possible. Lag B’Omer celebrates the life of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, a leading disciple of Rabbi Akiva and author of the basic work of Support Our Advertisers! Kabbalah, the Zohar. It marks They help make the Jewish Press possible. the only time during the 49 days of Omer – a period of mourning – when weddings and haircuts are permitted for observant Jews and Support They help make the when bonfire are lit. Jewish Press Our Advertisers! possible.

Photo courtesy of Chabad of St. Petersburg Brooke Weiss pets a rabbit at the St. Petersburg Chabad Lag B’Omer event. Tel Aviv Pride Parade draws 250,000 participants (JTA) – Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai led about 250,000 revelers participating in his city’s annual gay Pride Parade procession, the largest in the Middle East. “I promise you we will not relent and continue to fight until we see full equality in the State of Israel,” Huldai, a reserves fighter pilot for the Israel Air Force and longtime ally of the Israeli LGBTQ com- munity, said in his speech June 14. The mayor ended his speech on Bnei Zion Avenue, in the city’s south, with the words “chag same- ach,” meaning “happy holiday” and commonly used on Jewish religious holidays. The procession of floats and marchers, many wearing little more than adhesive glitter and body paint, is the 21st edition of Tel Aviv Pride and one of the largest yet in terms of participation, Ynet reported. Amir Ohana, Israel’s newly ap- pointed justice minister – the first openly gay Cabinet minister in Israel, attended the march with his life partner. JUNE 14 - JULY 11, 2019 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 11 Florida Holocaust Museum recognizes Letters to the Editor positive actions of local high schoolers The Jewish Press welcomes Letters to the Editor. Letters are published on a space available basis with the Jewish Press reserving the right to edit or reject letters for clarity, brevity, By RACHEL FREEMAN Pinellas County, knows hardship Robinson High School; Nicholas legalities or taste. Letters must be signed and bear the writer’s address and telephone number Jewish Press and resilency. At age 12, Cole was Bontempo, Sickles High School; (which will not be published). The writer’s name will be withheld on request. The Florida Holocaust Museum diagnosed with cancer. He has been Karem Amy Lamas, Spoto High recognized 93 local high school in remission for nearly five years. School; Adam Fischel, Stein- Writer distorted her message, woman says After his brush with cancer, Cole brenner High School; Maria Vi- juniors who demonstrated ex- Dear Editor: did not refer to ripping babies from created an initiative called Gold dal-Flores, Strawberry Crest High ceptional humanitarian qualities It saddened me to see Letters to their immigrant parents but rather Together, which has raised over School; Anjali Sanichara, Tampa with its Anne Frank Humanitarian the Editor that attribute to previous that children had been separated $1 million for pediatric cancer Bay Technical High School; Ro- Award last month. letter writers incorrect information from parents at our border. research. Cole also worked to open salia Betts, Tampa Catholic High The Anne Frank Humanitarian such as the recent letter of Noah It is precisely his kind of distor- Award (AFHA) was initiated in a teen lounge at Johns Hopkins School; Yasmine Mohseni, Tampa Jacobson. For example, I did not tions that lead to the inability of 2001 to recognize the positive ac- All Children’s Hospital and was Preparatory School; Deborah Ro- claim, as Mr. Jacobson asserts, that rational people to discuss together tions of today’s teens. Recipients a member of the hospital’s Teen driguez, Wharton High School. the number of immigrants had been the important issues facing our of the award embody the values of Advisory Board for three years. The Pinellas County recipients cut, but rather the (well document- Anne Frank, who never abandoned “As role models for their peers are: Montana Annable, Admiral country. and the community during their Farragut Academy; Trinity Ri- ed) number of refugees accepted Ann Haendel her ideals, even in the face of ex- St. Pete Beach treme hardship. senior year and beyond, their gifts gney, Boca Ciega High School; into the country has been reduced. I Award recipients are nominated of kindness, altruism, and com- Cole Eicher, Calvary Chris- by their principals, guidance coun- munity service help to make the tian High School; Lily Brames, Reader disputes characterization of Pastor John Hagee selors or teachers. One honoree is world a better place, and remind Clearwater Central Catholic High Dear Editor: consequences of their support for named per high school in Pinellas, us that with their leadership our School; Javante Scott, Clearwater In April, a reader wrote a letter to American politicians who espouse Pasco, Hillsborough, Manatee and future is bright and hopeful,” said High School; Julianna Wardell, the Jewish Press in which he called BDS and other anti-Semitic poli- Sarasota Counties. Irene Weiss, founder of the AFHA Countryside High School; Mer- Pastor John Hagee a “virulent anti- cies. They only see the anti-Semi- program. edith Grimm, Dixie Hollins High “We are extremely proud to hon- Semitic fundamentalist minister.” I tism that comes from the far right. Adam Fischel agreed. “It is School; Jennifer Cerroblanco or these 93 young humanitarians am appalled at that libelous epithet. The letter writer was right-on in extremely important to recognize Romero, Dunedin High School; for the 2018-2019 school year,” Pastor Hagee is the founder one paragraph when he wrote “… good behavior. When you recog- Noelle Esposito, East Lake High said AFHA Committee Chair, Traci of Christians United for Israeli President [Franklin D.] Roosevelt Klein. “While their accomplish- nize people for doing good things, School; Jataruis Bunch, Gibbs (CUFI) and a great friend of the turned away Jews, using as his ments are impressive, especially at it shows them that it matters and High School; Amanda Surber, Jewish people. CUFI now has over justification that they were a threat this age, what makes AFHA hon- they are likely to continue to make Indian Rocks Christian School; 5 million members, almost all of to national security.” Yes, arguably orees stand out among their peers a difference,” he said. Noelle Neader, Keswick Chris- This year’s receptions at the tian School; Danyelle Brown, whom are evangelical Christians the most liberal president in U.S. is how they are already making a history, FDR had a blatantly anti- difference in their schools, in their downtown St. Petersburg museum Lakewood High School; Katerina who provide tremendous political, Semitic State Department. communities and beyond.” featured Florida Sen. Janet Cruz of Nasto, Largo High School; Isa- economic and debating support for I have a generous offer to make Take, for example, Adam Fischel Tampa and Gayle Sierens, retired bella Ecker-Amaral, Northeast Israel. One aspect of CUFI that from Steinbrenner High School in co-anchor of WFLA News Channel High School; Marisa D’Amore, is particularly beneficial to the to the letter writer. I will pay for Hillsborough County. Adam, vol- 8 and honorary program chair. Northside Christian School; John Jewish people is CUFI on Cam- your registration to the CUFI Sum- unteered 600 hours over the past The Hillsborough County re- Ward, Osceola Fundamental High pus. CUFI on Campus does great mit, scheduled for July 8 and 9 in three years at the Tampa JCCs and cipients are: Madeleine Galla- School; Ethan Ghozali, Palm work counteracting the efforts of Washington, D.C. Then you write Federation. He is also involved in gher, Academy of the Holy Names; Harbor University High School; far-left anti-Semites of BDS in- another letter to the editor, this school clubs, taking on fundraising Levian Hall, Alonso High School; Tori Bumpers, Pinellas Park famy who pose their thinly veiled one on your post-CUFI Summit and event planning. Elizabeth Temple, Armwood High School; Sonny Russano, St. college campus anti-Semitism as view of John Hagee as a possible “I believe being a humanitarian High School; Anuksha Wick- Petersburg Catholic High School; “anti-Zionism.” Pastor Hagee and anti-Semite. If past history holds is the willingness to do whatever it ramasinghe, Berkeley Prepara- Eleni Sullivan, St. Petersburg CUFI do not stray from two of their true, the only anti-Semites you will takes to improve the lives of those tory School; Isabella Robe, Blake Collegiate High School; Kather- founding principles … nothing that see among the 5,000 people at the around you,” said Adam. “Helping High School; Madison Gerge- ine Nelson, St. Petersburg High could possibly be construed as an CUFI Summit will be the far-left others makes me happy, which is ly, Bloomingdale High School; School; Megan Levine, Seminole attempt at religious conversion; bigots who will attempt to break one of the main reasons I help. Most Cassie Carpenter, Brandon High High School; Kira Held, Shorec- and no interference in internal Is- in and disrupt the Salute to Israel people set out to better themselves School; Farrah Alkhatib, Brooks rest Preparatory School; Kyria- raeli politics. event. everyday, but I see that as too small DeBartolo Collegiate High School; kos Faklis, Tarpon Springs High Meanwhile, most ultra-liberal David Silverman a mission.” Blake McCoy, Cambridge Chris- School. Jews fail to realize the anti-Semitic Wesley Chapel Another Hillsborough award tian School; Christopher Shep- The Pasco County recipients winner was Anuksha Wickramas- pard, Carrollwood Day School; are: Lori Tang, Anclote High inghe from Berkeley Preparatory James Jewell, Chamberlain High School; Sarah Perciavalle, Bishop School. Wickramasinghe is a mem- School; Ashleigh Koza, Durant McLaughlin Catholic High School; ber of the Diversity Club and the High School; Destiny Davila, East Joseph Vreeland, Cypress Creek Community Service Council. She Bay High School; Brianna Auker, Middle High School; Madison Ka- used her own original photography Freedom High School; Anthon churak, Fivay High School; Tenee to create a book that shares the Dancy, Gaither High School; Taylor, Gulf High School; Kaitlyn history and culture of her ances- Charles Diaz, Hillsborough High Stewart, Hudson High School; tral home, Sri Lanka. The book’s School; Delanie Council, Jeffer- Karina Frey, J. W. Mitchell High proceeds aid an orphanage called son High School; Spencer Farfan- School, Elijah Ferreira, Land Grace Girls’ Home in Sri Lanka. te, Jesuit High School; Constance O’Lakes High School; Raghan Wickramasinghe is currently creat- Pagan, King High School; Elijah Pickett, Pasco High School; ing an English mentorship program Seay, Lennard High School; Tif- Christina Johnsen, River Ridge as well as a library for the residents fany Adams, Leto High School; High School; Anthony Adrian, at Grace Girls’ Home. Every week- Rachana Kandru, Middleton Jr., Sunlake High School; Paige end, she spends time on Skype calls High School; Jessica McMillan, Gray, Wendell Krinn Technical with the girls, reading them books Newsome High School; Olivia High School; Bayli Baker, Wes- in English to help advance their Charron, Plant City High School; ley Chapel High School; Kara fluency. Camden Collins, Plant High Weihman, Wiregrass Ranch High Like Anne Frank, Cole Eicher of School; Shirley West, River- School; Jorlyanys Suarez-Ayala, Calvary Christian High School in view High School; Molly Orlick, Zephyrhills High School. Bellissimo

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One limiting factor, of course, is money, of extra patrol. All said they would consider 1minute and 44 seconds,” so the carnage was SECURITY both for the Jewish community organizations requests on a case by case basis. done before help was available. • CONTINUED from FRONT PAGE and law enforcement. The pros and cons of allowing people Asked if local law enforcement moni- St. Petersburg assistant chief of police, as To hire an off-duty deputy costs $55 an to carry concealed weapons to meetings or tors online sites for potential threats, they well as top brass and detectives from the hour with a three- synagogues were discussed, with Gualtieri acknowledged they do, and have been doing sheriff’s office, joined the meeting – the first hour minimum. saying if those with carry permits are allowed so for some time. of several envisioned by Gualtieri. Nearly Some congregations to come in the synagogue with guns, they Gualtieri said those in law enforcement every congregation, Jewish agency and or- do that or hire pri- need the proper mindset and training. have certain individuals on their radar and ganization were represented. vate security. Af- Another topic touched upon is the need added that in the event of international, The initial meeting was to hear from the fordability was an for congregations and organizations to com- national or local incidents that may raise various organizations about their security issue for some. municate with one another if they become the state of concern for security for the Jew- concerns and check on their level of pre- Gualtieri said if aware of threats, and for law enforcement to ish community, law enforcement watches paredness against a potential attacker – to there is a large public be included in the information loop. increase and may take steps on their own learn who hires off-duty police or deputies event where there “We do not want to be meeting you for the before they even get a call from the Jewish or private security guards during Shabbat are security con- Sherrif Bob Gualtieri first time when we are giving a press confer- community. Officers stressed communica- services and big events, and what the most cerns, there will be a presence of deputies, but ence about some tragedy that just occurred,” tion over potential threats is critical. pressing worries are. he does not have the resources to approve all Gualtieri told the group. Members of the sheriff’s intelligence unit The goal is to minimize the risk as much requests, especially for private events. But he noted that even with extra patrols, were at the meeting and Gualtieri said once as possible. But, he said, if there are public safety con- information sharing and advanced readiness, all the contact information is worked out, he “I want us to be on our toes, not on our cerns or there is a heightened state of concern, “The unfortunate reality is that it is going to anticipates the next meeting will cover what heels,” Gualtieri said. he will supplement the off-duty presence to happen again.” sort of intelligence law enforcement gathers “Everyone should worship with peace of the degree staffing permits, preferring to err Guiltieri, who headed the commission in regard to anti-Semitic activities or physical mind,” he said. “The whole goal is preven- on the side of safety. looking into the Marjorie Stoneman Douglas threats, and how to share that information to tion, and as important as it is to being safe, Gualtieri and police officials were also High School in Parkland tragedy, said re- the Jewish community. it is also important to feel safe.” asked about occasionally rotating “dummy” gardless of whether the deputy closest to the Rabbi Gary Klein of Temple Ahavat Sha- However, Gualtieri emphasized that patrol cars to spots near the synagogues or shootings there followed proper procedures, lom seemed to sum up the reactions follow- especially in the case of a synagogue, law organization offices to give the perception “The fact is that 24 people were shot within ing the meeting. “I feel much better,” he said. enforcement understands “you don’t want to make it a fortress.” Several representatives spoke of their dif- ficulty in getting someone responsive to their concerns when calling law enforcement and it was quickly decided that each congregation Business & Professional Directory or organization needed a contact person who could direct the proper people to respond. That contact could also dispense information should law enforcement learn of potential threats or reasons for heightened alert. Before the meeting ended, contact infor- mation was gathered and the sheriff and police representatives offered to send out experts to assess security provisions at vari- ous locations and make recommendations if needed. Law enforcement can also help organiza- tions make a more informed decision on when they need extra security. CLASSIFIEDS ADS

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MENORAH MANOR SEEkS vOLUN- TEERS! Whether you are working in the gift shop, conducting a discussion group, reading to a resident, assisting residents with shopping, pet therapy, or just stop- ping by for one-on-one time, your life can be enriched by becoming a volunteer. For more information on volunteering at any of Menorah Manor’s communities, contact Bonnie Berman, volunteer coordinator, at (727) 302-3729.

WANTED: Adults with a desire to befriend a Jewish youngster. As a mentor/role model you can greatly influence a child’s life. For details, call Deena Silver, Yad B’Yad Program Coordinator at Gulf Coast Jewish Family & L PINCUS LAW, PLLC Community Services, (727) 450-7278. PERSONAL INJURY – CRIMINAL DEFENSE The Lawyer You Choose Does Make A Difference! COMMUNITY SERVICES 813-333-1343 COULD YOUR CHILD USE ANOTHER Loren W. Pincus, Esq. ADULT IN THEIR LIFE? Do you have Licensed in FL, NY & DC www.lpincuslaw.com children between the ages 6–17 who would benefit from frequent interaction with another Jewish adult/mentor? Call the Yad B’ Yad Ready to buy your condo Program Coordinator at Gulf Coast Jewish “on the beach” or “home” Family & Community Services, Deena Silver, at (727) 450-7278, for more information. in Pinellas County? Call: Marcy & Scott Daniels Advertise 727-560-8080 or 727-480-3515 in the Coldwell Banker Real Estate Jewish Press #1 Sales Team - Clearwater & Business & Professional Directory Clearwater Beach offices for as little as $40 per issue. www.marcydaniels.com Residential Real Estate Inc. For more information, call 535-4400 JUNE 14 - JULY 11, 2019 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 13

Welcome to the world leair, and Lillian Alpert of New Sincerely Organizations group will enjoy a Florida sunset Mazel tov on the birth of York. * * * yours, and potluck on the beach. Bring Logan Riley Alpert​​​​​​​, son of Brittany Horden Hamilton your own chairs, games, and food Yael and Benjamin Alpert of and husband Ian Hamilton of Job-Links and drink to share on Sunday, Seminole, May 17, weighing Davenport are the proud parents Monday Morning Links: June 23 from 5-8 p.m. at Treasure in at 7 lbs., 1 oz. Logan joins of baby boy Liam Thomas Free sessions of Monday Morning Island Gulf Front Park, 10400 big brothers Max and Cody. Hamilton, born in Winter Haven Judy Ludin Links are offered in the new Job- Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island. Kvelling grandparents are Feb. 24 and weighing in at 8 P.S. As always, I’m looking Links office at the Austin Center This is a free event. #Gather, Margot and Michael Benstock lbs., 2 oz. Kvelling grandparents forward to hearing about all building, 1211 N. Westshore Blvd., sponsored by the Tampa JCCs of Seminole, and Susan and are James and Gayle Horden your family simchas. Photos are Suite 300, Tampa, from 10-11:30 and Federation, offers a mix of Allen Alpert, of New York of Largo, Annie Hamilton of welcome, too. Send information a.m. social and interactive activities and Bradenton. Equally proud Orlando, Scot and Robin Ham- to: Sincerely Yours, P.O. Box The June 24 topic is “Demysti- for those in their 20s, 30s and 40s great-grandparents are Joan ilton of Naples and Uncle Alex 6970, Clearwater, FL 33758, or fying Behavioral Interviewing.” of all faiths. and Gerald Benstock of Bel- Horden of Tampa. e-mail [email protected]. The July 1 topic is “What is Emo- For more information or to tional Intelligence and How Does RSVP, visit: www.bryanglazer- It impact Your Career?” The July familyjcc.com/gather or contact her passion for movement to yoga, which she continued 8 topic is “10 Avoidable Mistakes Lisa Robbins at lisa.robbins@ Obituaries the practice until shortly before her death. Her interests also included gardening, reading and multiple volunteer activities. Job Seekers Commonly Make.” The jewishtampa.com or (813) 769- Ex-Federation president, Menorah She and her late husband helped to found Temple Beth Am July 15 topic is “How to Launch an 4723. in Framingham and Temple Beth David in Spring Hill. She Effective Job Search.” remained a very active temple member throughout her life. Manor leader Saul Schechter Survivors include her son David Levine, Newburyport, MA, and Job-search aids: The upcom- Support groups Alzheimer’s caregivers: Saul Schechter, 85, of Belleair, died May 16. Former daughter Barbara Levine, South Natick, MA; two grandsons ing Success Workshops and topics and a great-grandchild. The family suggests memorials to are: June 27 from 9:30 a.m. to noon, Menorah Manor offers a support president of the Jewish Federation of Pinellas and Temple Beth David in Spring Hill. Pasco Counties and a longtime lay leader of Menorah “Financial Fundamentals for Now group meeting in the Samson Manor, he moved here in 1979, from Huntington, NY. HILDA SACHS, 95, of Clearwater, died May 24. Born in the and the Future; July 11 from 9:30 Nursing Center at Menorah Man- He was executive vice president of Superior Uniform Bronx, she and her late twin brother were the first generation a.m. to 4 p.m.,“Preparing for Your or, 255 59th St. N., St. Petersburg, of their family to be born in the United States. After graduating on the first Thursday of the month Group. At Menorah Manor, he was a member of the high school, she worked as a bookkeeper. When she married Interview;” July 18 from 9:30 a.m. founding Board of Governors, former Menorah Manor her late husband Irving they moved to Fresh Meadows, NY to 12:30 p.m., “Develop a Resume from 3:30-5 p.m. Senior Living chair and a member of the Legacy So- and in 1967 they moved to Clearwater. She was involved That Gets Results.” For more information, call ciety and Founders Association. Among his legacies in Hadassah, elected president of the Clearwater Chapter, Success workshops are free Gwen Kaldenberg at (727) 302- region president of the Florida Central Region and served at Menorah Manor, he was instrumental in raising the on the National Service Committee. Remaining active in the for Job-Links program partici- 3750. organization’s first $1 million and chairing the Inn organization, she served as an organizational vice president. pants; $15 for guests. Reservations Caregivers: On the first on the Pond assisted living facility project. He was Having survived breast cancer, she participated in fundrais- required. Thursday of the month a caregiver ing campaigns for a cure. She was also a volunteer at Mease president of the Federation twice, from 1984-85 and To RSVP, contact Job-Links, support group meets at Temple again from 1996-98. He also served as Federation Morton Plant Hospital for over 20 years. She loved to play Canasta, watch Jeopardy and read the Sunday New York (813) 344-0200, email RSVP@ B’nai Israel, 1685 S. Belcher Campaign Chair. In 2010, when he was nominated as Times. She was a member of Temple B’nai Israel in Clear- TBJL.org. Road, Clearwater, from 10-11:30 a Jewish Community Hero, he noted his motivation for water. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law Arlene Switching Gears: A series a.m. This is an opportunity for volunteer service: “My whole purpose was to build a and Richard Carpel; son Marc Sachs; four grandchildren and strong Jewish community in Pinellas County.” Survi- six great-grandchildren. The family suggests memorials to of Wednesday evening workshops caregivers to share their experi- vors include his wife, Sue; sons and daughters-in-law the charity of one’s choice. (Curlew Hills Memory Gardens) from 6:30-8:30 p.m. will conclude ences and receive support. The on Wednesday, June 26, with infor- meetings are sponsored by Em- David and Audrey Schechter of Belleair, and Adam EDWIN SHUMAN, 84, of Dunedin, died May 26. Born in and Ruxandra Schechter of North Redington Beach; Boston, MA he moved to Florida in 1979 from Peabody, MA. He mation on enhancing interview skills path Health. three grandchildren. The family suggests memorials to was a computer technician/field manager and a professional and techniques, composing cover To register, call Kelly Siegel Temple Ahavat Shalom or the Morton Plant Founda- photographer. He was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and letters and sending thank-you emails at (727) 735-8743 or email kel- member of the American Legion. He was a member of Temple tion. (Curlew Hills Memory Gardens) B’nai Israel in Clearwater and the Suncoast Corvette Club and letters. [email protected] and a former member of National Multiple Sclerosis Society. or Sandi Sunter at (727) 301- BARBARA KAY BALCER, 67, of Seminole, died May 26. Survivors include his children; Mark and Lisa Shuman, Palm Young adults: 7884 or email Yiddishemama@ She graduated from Oglethorpe University with a degree in Harbor, Barbara and Alan Deitel, Jonesborough, TN, Paul and Beach chill: tampabay.rr.com. psychology. She contributed to the family owned business, Laurie Shuman, Lynn Haven, and Gary and Jennifer Shuman, The #Gather Kay Builders, a home builder in Pinellas County during the Clearwater; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. 1970s and 1980s. She staged all the model homes and did The family suggests memorials to the Multiple Sclerosis So- color coordination for families. She enjoyed antique sales ciety or Temple B’nai Israel. (Curlew Hills Memory Gardens) and had her own store. Survivors include three brothers and family; Ted and Susan Kay, Alan and Laney Kay, and MILTON SMOLOWITZ, 95, of St. Petersburg, died May Howard and Detra Kay. (David C. Gross Funeral Homes, St. 17. Survivors include his wife Evelyn; daughter and son-in-law Petersburg Chapel) Charlotte and Dan Thomas; two grandchildren and four great- grandchildren. (David C. Gross Funeral Homes, St. Petersburg ROLAND FOX, 89, of Palm Harbor, died May 26. Born Chapel) in Dayton, OH he was an attorney in the U.S. Air Force JAG Corps from 1954 to 1957. After moving to Clearwater, he was SARAH “SALLY” LEVITZ SWALE, 85, of Seminole, died an attorney there for more than 40 years, serving as Municipal June 5. Born in Lebanon, CT she grew up on a dairy farm. Judge of Clearwater from 1963 to 1971. He was a member She was a graduate of Eastern Connecticut University and and former president of Temple B’nai Israel in Clearwater. He earned her MA at the University of Connecticut. A member of also was president of the Sertoma Club in Clearwater, chair- Kappa Delta Pi and Mensa, she taught for 25 years in Con- man of the Fun ‘N Sun Festival and participated in the follies. necticut and New Jersey. She and her late husband Bill sailed Survivors include his wife Margie; daughter and son-in-law to Florida from Connecticut, settling in Tierra Verde and then Deborah and Ed Schapiro; two sons and daughters-in-law, South Pasadena, where she was an active volunteer at Palms Greg and Barbara Fox, and Leon and Kristen Fox; nine grand- of Pasadena Hospital and the St. Petersburg Garden Club. children and two great-grandchildren. The family suggests She was a member of Congregation B’nai Israel, Hadassah, 1750 Curlew Road • Palm Harbor • 727.789.2000 memorials to Temple B’nai Israel in Clearwater or the Home- St. Petersburg Sail and Power Squadron and the Association CurlewHills.com • CurlewHillsPetCemetery.com less Empowerment Project. (Curlew Hills Memory Gardens) of Retired Teachers. Survivors include grandchildren, Bill and Darlene Swale, Bob and Jackie Swale, Linda Campbell; and PAULINE LEVINE, 96, of Spring Hill, died May 3, one day several great-grandchildren. The family suggests memorials before her 97th birthday. Born in Brookline, MA she attended to Congregation B’nai Israel, or Suncoast Hospice. (Da- Brookline schools. She and her late husband Philip Levine vid C. Gross Funeral Homes, St. Petersburg Chapel) lived in Natick, MA until 1982 when they moved to Spring Hill. As a child she danced with several performing ballet schools and had been invited to join the Metropolitan Opera Ballet The Jewish Press publishes obituaries of Jewish Company by the famed American danseur and choreogra- community members, both local residents and individ- pher Edward Villella. She continued her love of dance in a uals whose survivors live in the area, as a free public variety of community-based theater activities. Later shifting service. A Sacred Trust dwd tyb hrwbq tyb Our reputation for superior service and fair pricing has made us the area’s most often chosen Jewish funeral provider. Serving the Pinellas County Jewish Community since 1968 DAVID C. GROSS • Community sponsored non-profit • Hand washing station FUNERAL HOMES • Beautifully kept grounds • Rock bins available • Professional, courteous staff • Waterfront family estates ( ) • Family estate lots available • Better pricing than competitors 727 381-4911 • 20 new crepe myrtles provided by Jewish Federation grant ST. PETERSBURG CLEARWATER 12905 Wild Acres Rd. Largo, FL 33773 6366 Central Avenue 830 N. Belcher Road (727) 531-0475 • www.chapelhillmemprk.org The Jewish Burial Society of Pinellas County Inc. dba Chapel Hill Memorial 24 HOUR INFORMATION AT DAVIDCGROSS.COM Park is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation licensed by the State of Florida PAGE 14 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY JUNE 14 - JULY 11, 2019 Israeli sports tech innovators, local pro teams, share game-changing ideas at conference

By RACHEL FREEMAN Gary Gould, CEO of Tampa JCCs Jewish Press and Federation. Sports technology – some of it This year’s Innovation Fusion coming from Israel – is a rapidly event focused on how technology is expanding industry that is affecting changing the nature of sports. Key the way people across the globe players in the fields of business, watch, attend and interact with innovation and sports spoke at the sporting events. event, including founders of major The third annual Florida-Israel Israeli startups and leaders in the Business Accelerator (FIBA) In- local sports industry. novation Fusion event highlighted Oren Simanian, the founder of these innovations and connected another successful Israeli startup, Colosseum Sport, was one of the business leaders, techies, investors, Aviv Sharpia, left, and brother sports lovers and Israel enthusiasts. keynote speakers at the FIBA Mateo Shapira discuss their startup Held at the Bryan Glazer Family event. Colosseum Sport is the journey with the companies Replay JCC on May 22, the event was first Israeli international sports Technologies and XTEND. An all-star panel of leaders in local sports industries discuss how their sold out. technology innovation group and Simanian founded StarTAU, Tel people drinking beer at the games,” teams are working to incorporate innovative technology into more stadiums FIBA, under the umbrella of the and games. (L-R) William Walsh, Tampa Bay Rays; Atul Khosla, Tampa Bay Tampa JCCs and Federation, works Aviv University’s Innovation cen- laughed Simanian. Fewer people are attending Buccaneers; Rob Higgins, Tampa Bay Sports Commission; Steve Griggs, Tampa to develop Israeli businesses and ter and co-founded TAU Ventures, Bay Lightning; Jack Elkins, Orlando Magic. help them expand into the Tampa the University venture capital arm. in-person sports games than in “We are all connected to sports previous years, Simanian said. and you can fly,” said Aviv Shapira. so much competition in terms of Bay community. The brothers both believe that ways to spend time, it’s essential “We want to bring some of Is- in some way, whether we are the The solution, from his perspec- fans, the players, the people em- tive, is increased fan engagement. the future of experiencing content for stadiums and teams to adapt in rael’s best innovations and startups lies in extended reality technol- order to bring fans the best experi- to the Tampa Bay region,” said ployed in sports industries, or the Introducing new technology, such as 3D replays, virtual statistics, ogy. XTEND is currently helping ence possible. One way the Rays sound technology and automatic the Israeli Defense Forces to view are doing this is by going cashless. highlights can help drive a better threats in an innovative and im- “We are the first team in the area fan experience in stadiums. mersive way. to go cash free,” said Walsh. “This He also suggested that innova- To wrap up the evening, FIBA provides a measurable reduction in Entertainment tors look to the current technology invited an all-star panel of leaders line wait times, which gets people industry leaders for inspiration. in the local sports industry to speak. back to their seats faster to enjoy For All Events! Since technology is such an es- Representatives of the Tampa Bay the game.” sential tool for modern business Lightning, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, As director of Innovation at DJ’s/HOSTS, PHOTO BOOTHS, LARGE SCREENS success, it’s crucial for entrepre- Tampa Bay Rays, Orlando Magic the Orlando Magic, Jack Elkins Former Member Of The Mike Eisenstadt Band neurial leaders to look to innovative plus the Tampa Bay Sports Com- said the basketball team is always mission spoke about the impact of on the lookout for technological & Kevin Frye Entertainment. technologies in order to stir new ideas and solutions. technology and innovation on their breakthroughs that help the team www.erniebiggsentertainment.com I 863.670.2443 Other keynote speakers, Aviv respective sports. achieve their goals faster, cheaper Shapira and his brother Mateo Steve Griggs, CEO of the Light- and more reliably. Shapira, co-founders of Replay ning, explained that the hockey “It’s so great to all come together Technologies, took the stage to add team is actively pursuing a culture at this event to explore more options their experience as innovators and of innovation. He envisions a for advancement,” said Elkins. business partners in the sports-tech smart tech future for Amalie Arena Following the presentations, Bill field. and the Lightning, using apps and Wickett, executive vice president “This is what happens when Cloud systems to create a digital of Communications for the Tampa innovation meets real life,” said district in the neighboring area out- Bay Lightning, said he found the Mateo Shapira. “This is what hap- side of the stadium. Griggs plans to panel discussion the most interest- pens when you take a crazy idea and utilize technology as a way to adapt ing part of the evening, but the make it a reality.” to younger generations’ interest. overall impact of the FIBA event Replay technologies produced For Atul Khosla, chief corporate should not be underestimated. a new video format that has been development and brand officer for “As a longtime employee in the adopted at major sporting events the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, engag- sports and entertainment industry, around the globe. It helps view- ing fans through mobile experi- it’s always great to see and hear ers slow down fast moments in ences and driving social and digital what the other teams are doing,” time, watch them from a variety of interactions are crucial goals. Kho- said Wickett. “These are key initia- angles and ultimately judge player sla said that he hopes to implement tives for Tampa Bay, if we want to performance using the 360 degree more technology to preserve a fun grow and develop as a community. viewing technology. and relaxed game experience - for The more we have here, the more Watching sports games from all example, using technology to keep diversity in our industries, the more sides makes it possible to experi- concession lines short. Imple- attractive we become to young tal- ence views where no camera is menting more player performance ent and people from outside our • Critically acclaimed chef physically placed. The brothers’ analytics and pushing for better fan region.” experiences are at the forefront of *** • Creative new American cuisine with a goal was to help viewers experi- Khosla’s vision for an innovative The program showcased one Mediterranean flair ence games in a new, immersive way. future for the Bucs. of FIBA’s biggest success stories, • Casually elegant ambiance “We are redefining what it means Rob Higgins, executive director StemRAD. The Israeli tech com- • Extensive selection of fine wines & spirits to watch and experience sports,” of the Tampa Bay Sports Com- pany created the world’s first wear- • Outdoor sidewalk café dining said Aviv Shapira. mission discussed the power of able shield to protect humans from • “O to Go” gourmet carryout Replay technologies was ac- social media leverage and digital harmful radiation, both on Earth marketing for modern sports teams. and in deep space. • Upscale martini bar quired by Intel in 2016. Since then, Aviv Sharpia has taken on a new Telling a brand story is crucial, Hig- Since the first FIBA Innovation • Champagne Sunday brunch project, XTEND. XTEND is a hu- gins explained. He is looking into Fusion event, StemRAD has raised • Wine dinners & monthly Chef table implementing more social rewards over $6 million from investors and Your Neighborhood Restaurant man extension platform that uses • Private dining room available (seats 50) & Martini Bar drones and extended reality tech- programs as incentives to get fans the company is on the radar of state nology to mesh virtual experiences coming back to games. officials and the space industry. and real world atmospheres with William Walsh, vice president of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis recently T he Experience makes you say “O” extreme accuracy. XTEND makes Strategy and Development of the met with StemRAD executives it possible for users to turn real Tampa Bay Rays, said that for his in Israel during his trade mission, • 6661 Central Avenue • activities into tech-driven games. team, the one word driving their where it was also announced that • 727.381.1212 • “Think about Skype, but 3D, advances is “speed.” When there’s the company had won a research grant from Space Florida in part- nership with Lockheed-Martin. Curing hunger...one meal at a time for 30+ years Jack Ross, North American Vice President of StemRAD, also MATZAH BALLS, BASEBALL announced to the the Innovation Fusion audience that the Astro- & LENNY’S . . . A TRIPLE PLAY RAD vest, a solution for protecting s for more than 3 decades ! Lenny’ against radiation in space, will be undergoing testing in coordination Best Breakfast with NASA at the International in Clearwater! Space Station. The vest features symbols of the American and Israe- Home of the almighty li flags, along with the Tampa Bay danish basket! Lightning logo. Lightning owner Serving Breakfast & Lunch Anytime Jeff Vinik, is among the company’s major investors. 6am - 3pm ~ 7 days a week “FIBA has been an integral Jewish-style 21220 U.S. 19 North part of our progress and success,” deli & Just south of Drew St. and north of S.R. 60 said Ross, who left FIBA as its much more! co-founding executive director to 727.799.0402 work for StemRAD. JUNE 14 - JULY 11, 2019 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 15 The New York Orthodox community, vaccination rates and the measles outbreak By BEN SALES families, and have a high rate of interpersonal the whole story. According to local data, only derstand and respect freedom of religion, our JTA news service interaction – for example, men gather for 21 percent of cases in New York City, and first job is to protect the public health and by New York City’s info page on an ongoing prayer at synagogue three times a day. The 30 percent in Rockland, come from school- signing this measure into law, we will help measles outbreak could not be clearer: “Most official said Orthodox Jews tend to travel age kids. A large number also come from prevent further transmissions and stop this of these cases have involved members of the overseas more often that other residents, kids ages 1 to 4, who may be in preschool outbreak right in its tracks.” Orthodox Jewish community,” it says. which could bring measles cases from Israel or day care. A handful of rabbis, activist parents But less clear is the cause of the outbreaks, or Ukraine, where cases have been reported. On June 13, the State Assembly passed and vocal outsiders have been spreading in heavily Orthodox neighborhoods of New York City declared a public health a bill to outlaw any exemption to vaccines anti-vaccination messages among Orthodox Brooklyn (the majority of New York’s 588 emergency in April, and required people in aside from one mandated by a doctor – in Jews, in public events, conference calls and cases in the last nine months) and Rockland four heavily Orthodox Brooklyn ZIP codes other words, no religious exemptions. The social media. Claims range from question- County (266 cases). to vaccinate. In March, Rockland County, legislation was spearheaded by two Jewish ing the honesty of the Centers for Disease Officials say low immunization rates in home to the largely Orthodox city of Monsey, lawmakers. Control, drug companies and the doctors to these communities are to blame, and have declared a state of emergency and barred Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, who rep- likening vaccination to Nazi experiments. tried to force residents to vaccinate. unvaccinated kids from public spaces. The resents part of the Bronx, said the current law The organized Orthodox community, Orthodox organizations like Agudath Is- order was later rescinded. is unclear as to whether schools are generally however, is supporting the effort to vacci- rael of America acknowledge that there are At the time of the order, less than 73 per- required to accept religious exemptions. For nate. Agudath Israel of America has urged pockets of resistance to vaccination in those cent of Rockland County was vaccinated. example, the New York State Department the community to vaccinate and cautioned communities. But they say overall vaccina- Owing to a series of free vaccination clin- of Education recently forced the Shulamith against anti-Semitism due to the outbreak. tion rates for Orthodox Jews are in line with ics, that rate has since crept up to around 77 School for Girls in Cedarhurst, NY, to accept “[C]ountless rabbinical figures and lead- the general population and vaccination is percent, according to New York State data. a student’s religious exemption from vacci- ers, including leading rabbis in the Agudath the “clear societal norm” in the community. New York City has also shut down one nation, according to the Five Towns Jewish Israel movement and doctors serving these State statistics show, however, that Rock- Orthodox school for not providing immuni- Times. The school sought to block the stu- communities, have repeatedly encouraged land County’s immunization rates are signifi- zation records to the state. dent, saying that, contrary to the exemption, vaccination in the strongest possible terms,” cantly below the 96 percent goal set by the And some individual schools in Brooklyn Jewish law requires vaccination. reads an April statement by the group. state Health Department. And more than 20 and Rockland have low vaccination rates. Dinowitz told JTA that law is needed to An official in Rockland, speaking on Orthodox schools in Rockland and Brooklyn According to data from the State Department protect those who are immuno-compro- background per local government policy, had more than 10 percent of kids claiming a of Education, more than 30 Orthodox schools mised. “If someone has a legitimate medical said that officials met with 100 Orthodox religious exemption from vaccination. in Rockland had immunization rates lower reason to not get vaccinated, those people community leaders in October to try to stem To be sure, a low vaccination rate isn’t the than 90 percent last year. In Brooklyn, the are exposed in a very significant way when the outbreak. only issue at play. A Rockland County offi- number was more than 20. there’s an outbreak,” he said. “I would never “If people think this is some kind of Jewish cial told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency that But Prof. Awi Federgruen of the Columbia tell people how to practice their religion. It’s problem, it’s not,” Dinowitz said. “Leaders in other factors have contributed to the disease’s University business school, who is active in about health. It’s not about religion.” the Orthodox community are advising people spread among Orthodox Jews. Orthodox efforts to encourage immunization, said that In signing the bill, Governor Andrew to get vaccinated because they understand Jews tend to live in close quarters with large school data, for better or worse, may not tell Cuomo echoed that sentiment, “While I un- that this can save lives.”

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JewishPressPinellas.com • JewishPressTampa.com PAGE 16 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY JUNE 14 - JULY 11, 2019 AIPAC, J Street support bipartisan effort to fund Israeli-Palestinian peace dialogue programs RON KAMPEAS groups supporting the bill include Palestinian economic development. JTA news service the Jewish Federations of North “Although economic develop- FREE PLACEMENT SERVICE WASHINGTON – An array of America and its Israel advocacy ment is an important tool for pro-Israel groups including both affiliate, the Israel Action Network, stabilizing conflict-prone settings Michelle AIPAC and J Street are backing a and the Jewish Council for Public and establishing connections be- & her dad Allow me to bipartisan bill that would seed in- Affairs, an umbrella for Jewish tween communities, economic vestment in the Palestinian areas and public policy groups. development by itself will not lead restore funding to peace dialogue Leading its introduction are Rep. to lasting peace,” the bill says in help you find programming that the Trump ad- Nita Lowey, D-NY, a pro-Israel its preamble. “People-to-people ministration removed as a punitive stalwart who chairs the powerful peacebuilding programs further measure against the Palestinians. U.S. House of Representatives Ap- advance reconciliation efforts by a new home The bill reads in part as a rebuke propriations Committee, and Rep. promoting greater understanding, to the administration for ending Jeff Fortenberry, R-NE, a member mutual trust, and cooperation be- funding for dialogue groups last of the committee. tween communities.” for your aging year. It also reinforces backing In the Senate, it is being backed The bill also asserts, “It is the Michelle Krys Cohen for a two-state solution at a time by Sens. Lindsey Graham, R-SC, sense of Congress that building St. Petersburg Senior loved one. when the Trump administration and who chairs the foreign operations a viable Palestinian economy is Placement Advisor Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin subcommittee of the Appropria- central to the effort to preserve the Netanyahu are playing down the tions Committee, along with Sens. possibility of a 2-state solution.” Independent RetIRement CommunItIes • prospect of Palestinian statehood. Cory Gardner, R-CO, Tim Kaine, Lobbying for the bill was spear- The bill announced June 12 has D-VA, and Chris Coons, D-DE. headed by the Alliance for Middle AssIsted LIvIng CommunItIes • ALzheImeR’s & drawn support from groups that The bill, which would provide East Peace, an umbrella for dozens memoRy CARe CommunItIes • In-home CARe • are often at odds over peace pol- $50 million annually for five years of Israeli-Palestinian dialogue icy, including the American Israel for a “Partnership Fund for Peace,” groups and programs, including shoRt-teRm RespIte CARe • emeRgenCy Public Affairs Committee, which ostensibly fits in with the peace educational programs like Givat push spearheaded by President Haviva, Hand in Hand and Neveh dIsChARge • out-of-town ReLoCAtIons generally aligns with the Israeli government on security issues, Donald Trump’s son-in-law and Shalom. ALLMEP swung into and J Street and Americans for senior adviser, Jared Kushner, that action last year after the Trump ad- 727-512-0909 Peace Now, which have frequently emphasizes investment. ministration slashed the $10 million criticized the Netanyahu govern- Kushner is convening a summit these groups get annually as part of [email protected] ment’s and Trump administration’s later this month in Bahrain to in- the hundreds of millions it was end- approaches to the conflict. Other clude investment by Arab states in ing in assistance to the Palestinians. “At a moment when important norms around resolution of this conflict are being eroded, and de- humanizing and violent attitudes – most markedly among the young – are growing, this is a critical Part Mentor ‘win’ for our community, and its collective mission to counter such trends,” John Lyndon, ALLMEP’s incoming executive director, said Part Motivator in a statement. The Trump administration cut the assistance in part because the Palestinian Authority refused to Part end subsidies to the families of Advocate Palestinians jailed or killed for at- tacks on Israelis, but also because Palestinian leaders opted out of peace talks after Trump recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. A Cognitive Coach is It was never made clear why the Trump administration ended the someone who serves as relatively small amount of fund- ing for dialogue groups, which did an engine of change. not reach the Palestinian Author- ity. Trump administration insiders have suggested that the programs never proved their efficacy, be- cause there was no Israeli-Pales- tinian peace. Supporters say the Our Fit Minds’ certified coaches programs aim to tamp down ten- sions and create opportunities for empower seniors to reach their Israeli-Palestinian interaction and greatest potential, whether they leave peace-making to diplomats. Israel’s right-wing prioritizes are healthy, have a dementia interactions with Palestinian indi- diagnosis or are dealing with viduals over those associated with dialogue groups, saying the latter advanced Alzheimer’s. reinforce a sense of Palestinian national identity at the expense of peace-making. Cognitive coaching is an emotionally Lowey in her release said that one of the purposes of the fund and financially rewarding full- or was to lay the groundwork for a part-time opportunity. At Fit Minds, two-state outcome. “Time and time again, Congress you’ll have the satisfaction of has reiterated its support for a knowing your work matters. two-state solution that leads to two states for two peoples,” she said. “To aid the pursuit of this dream, this bipartisan legislation would stimulate economic development and build community ties between Interested in becoming a Israelis and Palestinians. There are no shortcuts to peace, and this bill lays the foundation for this genera- Certified Coach? tion and those to come to engage in the hard work of peace-building.” Contact us today: Right-wing figures in Israel have lambasted some of the groups under the ALLMEP umbrella for contact@fitminds.net bringing together former fight- ers on both sides, and families of victims of violence on both sides, (813) 282-8282 saying it creates a false equivalence between Israeli soldiers and Pales- tinian terrorists.