Connections 2017 GUIDE TO JEWISH LIFE IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES 2014 GUIDE TO JEWISH LIFE IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES
Published by the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties www.JewishFederationLCC.org Published by the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties www.JewishFederationLCC.org CONNECT with Jewish families
through PJ Library.
ENCOURAGE Jewish families with young children to explore
Jewish literature.
SHARE the experience of reading with your children as they grow with PJ Library books.
SIGN UP TODAY! Enrollment is open to Jewish families with children between the ages of six months to eight years living in Lee & Charlotte Counties.
Sponsored by : Judith Roth for the Roth Family Foundation Kenneth & Gwenda Asher for the Asher Family Foundation
Families can sign up for PJ Library at www.pjlibrary.org
Connections 2017 GUIDE TO JEWISH LIFE IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES 2014 GUIDE TO JEWISH LIFE IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES
From the Editor Connections Welcome to the sixth edition of Connections. This is THE publication to turn to 20172015 GUIDE GUIDE TO TO JEWISHJEWISH LIFE IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES 2014 GUIDE TO JEWISH LIFE IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES for the local Jewish community’s activities, programs, services and organizations. Volume 6, No. 1 Just as L’CHAYIM serves to keep you up-to-date on all things “Jewish” each 2017 Edition month, Connections serves as your annual resource guide. 56 pages When you go through these pages, you will learn a lot about the wealth of USPS Permit No. 175 opportunities – cultural, educational and spiritual – available to the Jewish community in Lee and Charlotte counties. Publisher Without our valued advertisers, neither L’CHAYIM nor Connections would be possible. When you visit an entity that advertises with us, please be sure to say, Jewish Federation “Thank you for advertising with the publications of the Jewish Federation of Lee of Lee and Charlotte Counties and Charlotte Counties.” 9701 Commerce Center Court Everyone involved with Connections hopes you will save it and use it as a Fort Myers, FL 33908 guide for the coming year. And please share it with others or have them contact Phone: (239) 481-4449 the Federation for their own copy. Fax:Published (239) by 481-0139the Jewish Federation Email: [email protected] Lee and Charlotte Counties www.JewishFederationLCC.org Ted Epstein Publishedwww.JewishFederationLCC.org by the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties www.JewishFederationLCC.org Ted Epstein, Editor, Connections and L’CHAYIM
Jewish Federation Staff Alan Isaacs, Executive Director Cover art by Carolyn Gora Leni Sack, Program Director Carolyn Gora is a local artist and retired art Lori Ramos, Executive Assistant teacher. She is a Jewish Federation of Lee and Paula Zlatkin, Bookkeeper Charlotte Counties board member and chair of Micaela Solomon, the Jewish Family Services committee, as well as Jewish Family Services a super volunteer for numerous organizations in the community. Editor Ted Epstein [email protected] Like us on Facebook! Advertising Sales James Lewin [email protected] ConneCt (239) 634-6923 with your Jewish Community Graphic Design www.facebook.com/ & Production facebook.com/jfedsrq Federation Media Group, Inc. (239) 249-0699 JewishFederationLCC
Published2 CONNECTIONS by the Jewish2017 Federation A Guide to Jewish of Living Lee in Lee and and Charlotte Charlotte Counties Counties www.JewishFederationLCC.org Connections 2017 GUIDE TO JEWISH LIFE IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES 2014 GUIDE TO JEWISH LIFE IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES Table of Contents FEDERATION...... 4-7 CALENDAR...... 51 Candle Lighting Times...... 51 ARTS & CULTURE...... 8-17 Jewish Holidays...... 51 ADULT EDUCATION...... 18-20 DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS...... 52 COMMUNITY SERVICES...... 22-23 INDEX...... 53 ORGANIZATIONS...... 24-32 Special Interest Groups...... 24-28 Israel Connection...... 29-31 Advocacy Groups...... 32 The Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties RELIGIOUS LIFE...... 33-41 thanks all of our advertisers for their continued support! Without them we would be unable to FOCUS ON YOUTH...... 42-48 provide you with Connections. Please support our Schools...... 42-46 advertisers and let them know you saw their ad in Camps...... 47 Connections. Teens...... 48
M AKING H ISTORY P ERSO NA L
EVERY FACE TELLS A STORY. Every story, a personal journey. The Holocaust Museum & Education Center of Southwest Florida makes history personal every day. Since 2001, our Education programs have reached over 150,000 students in Southwest Florida. We have hosted thousands of visitors from across the U.S. and more than 35 countries. Open year round, closed Mondays & major Jewish and U.S. holidays. Call or visit our website for more information on ogra ph y o t exhibits, events and programs: HolocaustMuseumSWFL.org lar P h e l rik K E
Steen Metz, Holocaust Survivor and Sanibel resident
May - December Tuesday to Sunday, 1:00-4:00 pm 4760 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 7 January -April Naples, Florida 34103 Tuesday to Friday, 12:30 pm - 5:00 www.HolocaustMuseumSWFL.org Saturday and Sunday 1:00 - 4:00 pm 239.263.9200
PublishedCONNECTIONS by the Jewish2017 Federation A Guide to Jewish of Living Lee in Lee and and Charlotte Charlotte Counties Counties3 www.JewishFederationLCC.org Jewish Federation
The Jewish Federation in Lee and Charlotte counties here is no record of the arrival of the first Jew in Lee camp. It was named Camp Genesis and opened in 1985. Un- County. Strangely enough, in 1850, Fort Myers was der Sheila’s steady hand and with the involvement of new named for a Jew – Col. Abraham Myers – who had leaders, the Federation was incorporated and became rec- Tnothing to do with its establishment and (according to most ognized as a member of the Council of Jewish Federations historians) never lived in nor visited the area. in 1986. The Federation hired its first executive During World War II, a Jewish chaplain was director in 1988 and a program director in 1990. assigned to the U.S. Army Base in Buckingham, This was followed by the creation of many and for the first time, the handful of Jews liv- educational and arts projects, cultural activi- ing here could attend services arranged for ser- ties, social services and Holocaust education vicemen on the base. In 1947, a local merchant, programs. Sam Posner, placed an ad in the newspaper stat- As the Lee County Jewish community con- ing that his variety store would be closed for the tinued to expand its programming, the Jews in High Holidays. Suddenly, unknown Jews in the Charlotte County expressed their desire to join area began to contact him. In 1948, ten families this Federation, which in 1995 officially became gathered for High Holiday services. ALAN ISAACS the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte In January 1975, Leo Cooper provided an Executive Director Counties. important link for the Jewish families of Lee Jewish Federation of In 2009, the Federation purchased and County when he set up, edited, published and Lee and Charlotte moved into its Jewish Community Building Counties distributed the monthly newspaper L’CHAYIM. with a dedicated Jewish Family Services wing. The newspaper was the impetus for the com- In recent years the Federation has dramatically munity to come together to establish a local Jewish Fed- increased its range of education, arts and culture program- eration (but not part of the Council of Jewish Federations) ming, and has created a comprehensive Jewish Family Ser- in 1976, whose primary purpose was to raise funds for the vices division. United Jewish Appeal. Today, the Jewish community, like the rest of the popula- The Jewish community began to need services locally tion in Lee and Charlotte counties, is still growing. Our data- and, in 1984, a group of mothers worked tirelessly with then- base comprises over 2,500 households and we estimate there president Sheila Laboda to begin planning a Federation day are 6,000 - 7,000 Jews in our service area.
Our Mission To strengthen and enrich the Jewish community by providing and supporting philanthropic, educational and social service programs locally, in Israel and throughout the world. Our Vision A Jewish community that is based on Jewish values such as tzedakah (benevolence), tikkun olam (repairing the world) and k’lal Yisrael (taking responsibility for one another).
4 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Federation Who is “Federation” and what do we do? he answer is simple: It’s you – and every member of part of the world enable us to provide humanitarian assis- the Jewish community of Lee and Charlotte counties. tance. Thousands of people receive help. The Federation is the thread that runs through the More than 400,000 of Israel’s children are still at risk of Tfabric of our Jewish community, its organizations and ser- missing out on the life and learning opportunities they need vices, connecting us all. to become independent members of society. In The mission of the Jewish Federation of Israel today, one in every three children lives Lee and Charlotte Counties is to strengthen at or below the poverty line. These astound- and enrich the Jewish community by provid- ing figures highlight the cycle of despair and ing and supporting philanthropic, educational depravity that cripples a disturbingly high and social service programs locally, in Israel portion of Israel’s children, physically and and throughout the world. Our vision is a Jew- psychologically. They don’t get the programs ish community that is based on Jewish values and activities they need to develop their edu- such as tzedakah (benevolence), tikkun olam cational and personal abilities. Their families (repairing the world) and k’lal Yisrael (taking responsibility cannot afford extracurricular programs and, equally if not for one another). more relevant, often the parents themselves are incapable of Two thousand years ago we vowed to take care of one an- functioning as positive role models. other like family. Today, thanks to donors like you, that vow still holds. It’s an amazing story. We Jews were exiled from the Land of Israel SOCIAL over 2,000 years ago. And yet, with no home, and no one to rely on but ourselves, we devel- oped one of the largest and most effective social ARE YOU interested in giving back to the community? service infrastructures in the world. Our local want to experience the riches Jewish Federation is now at the heart of that in- DO YOU that our local seniors have to offer? frastructure, allocating valuable dollars to fam- ily and child services, nursing homes, JCCs, JOIN US for our monthly senior lunches! summer camps, and a host of vitally important programs here at home, in Israel and around If you are looking for a volunteer opportunity that is fun the world. and rewarding and will not require a lot of time, please Even in times of increased prosperity the call Micaela at the Federation. We need volunteer infrastructure that supports our community is being tested. Too many Jewish families can’t put drivers to pick up the seniors. We need volunteers to food on their tables and are turning to the Fed- call a senior once a week and pick them up for the eration system for help. Yet, for every story of luncheon. Volunteers are also needed to greet people hardship and despair, there are countless sto- as they come in, help set up the food and tables and to ries of love and hope that donors like you are help clean up afterwards. We will provide rides for responsible for every day. those who need them. We guarantee that you will have Israel and overseas support is essential to Jews in danger, wherever they may be. Wher- as much fun as the people you are assisting. ever Jews are in harm’s way – from Ukraine to Yemen to Israel – our Federation and our overseas partners have a unique ability to act quickly in emergencies. From wars to acts of terror to natural disasters, there is so much we If you are interested in volunteering for the Senior Outreach do to alleviate suffering. Personnel and pro- Program please contact Micaela Solomon at Jewish Family grams already on the ground in virtually every Services, (239) 481 4449 ext. 6.
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 5 Federation
How the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties Serves
Local Jewish Education and Culture Community wide Jewish Education and Culture Programs for all ages including the Jewish Film Festival, Jewish Author Events, Israel Celebration, Jewish genealogy, Israeli folk dancing, social and special interest groups. L’CHAYIM published monthly to keep the Jewish community informed about local, national and international Jewish issues. Community Relations activities include monitoring anti Semitism and issues of separation of church and state in the community. Israel Advocacy and Initiatives to strengthen local Jewish community ties with Israel. Holocaust Education through the Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida to middle and high school students in the community.
Overseas Funding to the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) for full spectrum social services to Israel and Jewish communities in 60+ countries around the world. Partnership 2Gether relationship with the Hadera Eiron Region in Israel.
Local Seniors Services Holiday baskets and teen visits to seniors and senior facilities for Rosh Hashanah, Hanukah and Passover. Seniors & Volunteers Lunch Program Emerging and pressing needs related to senior housing, health and socialization.
Local Case Management Services Non sectarian, individual and family outreach, information and referral services. Individual life coaching and support services.
Local Emergency Services Food Pantry and food cards. Emergency financial assistance grants. Education and aid associated with natural disasters.
Local Community Services Support families of children with special needs. SAT preparatory classes for high school students. Addresses pressing community needs related to volunteerism, institutional cooperation and community assessment and planning.
Jewish Community Foundation An endowment that ensures the long term financial base of charitable, social and educational programs in our community. Needs based college scholarships and study scholarships in Israel. Projects and programs aimed at Jewish community enrichment.
6 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Federation PARTNERSHIP2GETHER Connecting the global Jewish family, increasing Jewish identity, strengthening Israeli society he Jewish Agency for Israel’s PARTNERSHIP- Artists.” Each American artist was partnered with an Israeli 2GETHER Peoplehood Platform (previously known artist. Each pair, or havruta, communicated through social as Partnership 2000) has become the paradigm for media, which allowed individuals the opportunity to get to Tsuccessfully partnering Jewish communities directly with know their partner, and work together on their artistic cre- Israeli communities. ations. They participated in a five-week online course on P2G connects 450 Jewish and Israeli communities in “The Theology of Psalms.” After completing the course, the 46 city-to-city and region-to-region partnerships, engag- artist pairs decided on which Psalm, or portion of a Psalm, to ing more than 350,000 participants each year use as their artistic inspiration. in meaningful ongoing connections between Our Federation is represented by eight Israelis and Jews around the world, through artists: Carolyn Gora, Shirley Litman, Herb unique programs and one-on-one encounters. Sklar, Celeste Borah, Janice Heligman, Gale P2G creates living bridges to Israel, genuine Shamblott, Elise Gold Sewall and Juli Bob- friendships, and contributes to understanding man. This accounts for the largest contingent life in the Jewish state and the rich variety of religious expres- of any other member of the Southeast Consortium. These sion and renewal around the world. artists enjoyed getting together and discussing their expe- At the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, riences and the course work. Several of them attended the a member of the Southeast Consortium of communities in opening of the show in April in Israel at the 20th anniversary celebration of the P2G program. The exhibit is currently touring Southeast Consortium communities and will open at the Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers on Sunday, March 5.
Tile From Around the World Ceramic • Porcelain Marble • Travertine • Carpet Local artists at Ilana Aviv’s studio in Israel Tools and Supplies the U.S., the relationship has included a variety of person- to-person experiences shared with our Hadera Eiron Region Large Selection in Stock in Israel, including a firefighter exchange, and hosting del- Great Prices Every Day egations. It continues with “Art Beyond Boundaries,” an arts collaboration that began in the fall of 2015 and continues through April 2017. Cape Coral Fort Myers Led by local artists Carolyn Gora and Shirley Litman, 916 SE 15th Ave. 16165 S. Tamiami Tr. the Southeast Consortium and the Hadera Eiron Region 239-772-5815 239-267-1445 produced a collaboration and an exhibition that was truly a partnership. Fifty artists from both countries answered “A Call for www.pcctile.com
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 7 Arts & Culture
News and Information JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL DECEMBER 2016 L'CHAYIM 16 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties The Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlottest CountiesAnnual L’CHAYIM Presents the 21 ’Chayim, a word used in toasts articles. Jewish Film Festival of Southwest Florida and blessings, literally means Ted Epstein, the editor/designer of All lms will be screened at the Regal Cinemas Bell Tower. “To Life,” and we use it to express Connections, has been the managing Open seating at all lms for general admission tickets. ickets ill be mailed up to December 1. ickets ordered after December 1 ill be available Lthe vitality of Jewish life in Southwest editor and designer of L’CHAYIM since ponsorship 2016 21 after :00 p.m. inside the theater on the day L'CHAYIM of DECEMBERthe sho .
Jewish Federation of Leeopportunities and Charlotte Counties are Thursday, January 12 at 7:15 p.m. available that include Florida. L’CHAYIM, the name of our October 2009. ISRAEL & THE JEWISHSABENA WORLD HIJACKING: MY VERSION reserved seating. ee This docu-drama is based on previously undiscovered audio recordings of former pilot Captain Reginald Levy. Captain Levy, now deceased, was the form on page 1 . monthly newspaper, keeps thousands L’CHAYIM is mailed free to 2,500 srael rushes aidin command to ofthe Sabena Flight world s 571 from Brussels, Belgium, worst to Tel Aviv on earth ua es Israel is often one of the fi rstMay countries 8, 1972, when iton was thehijacked ground by four members to offer of Black September, Thank You to these the armed wing of Fatah or PLO. The fi lmspecialists fi nally shares to train the untoldlocal NGOsstory to run humanitarian aid after the world’sof what exactly most took devastating place on the fl ight throughout earthquakes. the 30 hours of nerve- They also fortifi ed 332 public build- an emotional support hotline, and has Sponsors of the By Nicky Blackburn, ISRAEL21c, www.israel21c.org,wracking captivity. September It fuses candid 13, 2016 interviewsset up with a beekeepingdramatic reenactments. cooperative staff ed ings, and conducted safety and survival hen Krishna Devi Khadka, It takes viewers into the aircraft to witnessby thewomen events whofi rsthand lost astheir the homes and of local readers informed about local, homes and businesses in the area, and was pulled out of the rubble workshopshijackers for 605threaten Nepalese to explode citizens. hand grenades unless 300 prisoners were Jewish Film Festival: Exhibit “Drawing Against Oblivion” has local connection sources of income in the earthquake. of a hotel fi ve days after a Israelireleased. civilian The resultNGO isIsraAID a fast-paced also fi lm full of suspense, which poses A baby is born at the IDF fi eld hospital in Nepal The organization also trained six (Photo courtesy of the IDF) W arrivedhistorical two days and after political the quake, questions with that helped to shape the Israel of today. devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake in theater troupes to present plays in Principal Sponsor an emergencyLanguage relief: English team /Hebrew/Arabic/French of doctors Japan, which killed some 16,000 Nepal on April 25 2015, the fi rst people 1 hr. 38 min. earthquake-aff ected districts, to relay and search-and-rescueRunning Time: specialists. The people and left 230,000 homeless. she saw were Israeli. information about community resilience As in Haiti, Israeli aid organizations national and international Jewish news. is available to everyone at the Federa- Khadka, a maid at the hotel, had team quickly established a temporary and trauma, a model that is now being field clinic in the Sindhupalchowk remain in Japan today long after been trapped in an air pocket covered adopted by UNICEF. district of Nepal, one of the worst-hit all other foreign aid organizations by a corpse. She was rescued after a dra- Nepal was not the fi rst time that Tuesday, Januaryareas. 17 at 7:15 p.m. have left. Aid workers are helping matic 10-hour operation led by IsraAID, TheIN organization SEARCH brought sup-OF to build a mental health support net- an Israeli humanitarian aid organization. work in the country, and recording L’CHAYIM has articles submitted tion office. The 24-year-old was taken imme- plies andISRAELI medical services, CUISINEand opened psychologist-staffed safe spaces for the testimonies of survivors. diately to the only working hospital in This fi lm is a portrait of the Israeli people told through food. It is drawn children left wandering the streets after April 2015: A double earthquake Kathmandu, a large fi eld hospital run by from the more than 100 cultures that make up Israel today. Through the quake.interviews with chefs, farmers, home cooks, vintners and cheese makers, in Kumamoto City, Japan, which the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Community development nonprofi t killed 49 and injured 3,000. Khadka was one of thousands of to visits to farms, markets, restaurants and kitchens, audiences will Tevel b’Tzedekdiscover that (The this Earth hot, multi-culturalin Justice), cuisine has developed only in the Feb 2016: A 6.4 magnitude earth- by the Jewish clergy and lay leaders in It can also be found online at people across Nepal who survived the which haslast been30 years. carrying In that out short humanitar- time, Israel went from being one of the poorest quake in Taiwan, which killed 117 fi rst quake and the second magnitude The IDF fi eld hospital in Nepal ian workcountries in Nepal in the since world 2007 to oneand of al- the most advanced. Its sophistication people, 115 of them in one residen- 7.3 quake that followed two weeks later, Israel has rushed to provide aid in the ready hadmirrors a team the oncurrent the ground, state of rushed the Israeli people and their food: secular, tial building in Kaohsiung City. thanks to Israeli aid. The two quakes outward looking and innovative. The chef/guidewake of of a the deadly fi lm is earthquake. Michael Israeli to help, providing connections, training April 2016: The 7.8 magnitude were a catastrophic double blow for Ne- Solomonov, the James Beard award-winninghumanitarian chef/owner workers of Zahav have and helpeda out earthquake in Ecuador, which killed and understandingnumber of other of the restaurants region to in other Philadelphia. 1 hr. 34 min. Lee and Charlotte counties. Federation www.JewishFederationLCC.org. Read- after earthquakes in India, Turkey, Peru, 661 and injured nearly 28,000 NGOs Language:arriving on English the scene. Running Time: Magen David Adom (MDA) sent and the devastating earthquakeOUR and COMMUNITY people. tsunami that hit Southeast Asia in 2004. out a trained disaster delegation includ- To view more stories on Israel’s Here are the main earthquakes where ing 10 paramedics and two physicians, exceptional humanitarian aid efforts DECEMBER 2016 Israel has given aid since 2010: L'CHAYIM abroad in the My Name is Israel aid and later distributed building supplies Jan 2010: Israel gained worldwide Board members and staff also contrib- ers can view the most recent issue as Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotteand Counties food to 800 Nepali families. exhibition, or to downloadDr. Brian theand exhibitSara Krivisky 6 Thursday, January 19 at 7:15 p.m.praise for the speed and effi ciency The Dream Doctors sent medical for display, visit http://www.israel21c. FANNY’S JOURNEYwith which it off ered aid to ilyHaiti members they lost, and others were clownsFanny’s to bring Journey relief is anand incredible cheer taleto of bravery, strength and survival – a org/exhibition/my-name-is-israel/. in the wake of a catastrophiccreated 7.0 by the families of HolocaustMartha sur- & John Wolf IsraAID working in the Gongabu district of survivors.story of a daring young girl missionwho will fromstop at the nothing Museum, and fear Mr. no Diazone. In Editor and Israel Director, Nicky Kathmandu (Photo: IsraAID/Mickey Noam Alon) magnitude earthquake that vivorskilled and camp liberators we worked Coming u at the olocaustthOther Anniversary1943, Israeli 13-year-old EditionNGOs Fanny , – ZAKA,andconsidered her useum younger options sisters for were its creation. sent from Con- their Blackburn has worked extensively as a pal that left 9,000 people dead, 22,000George – 75 around 160,000 people andwith left in our education programs who ute articles of interest to the readers. well as an archive of past issues in PDF By Amy Snyder, Executive Director, HolocaustUnited Museumhome Hatzalah, & in EducationFrance Natan to an International ItalianCentertemplating foster of SWFLhome the for tragedy Jewish ofchildren. the Holocaust When the journalist and editor both in Britain and injured and hundreds of thousandsThe ofLittle Ships: The HeroicAcross Rescue the 280,000and “all of buildings the genocides destroyed. have Five passed away. The community also t is hard to believe we have come HumanitarianNazis arrive Aid in and Italy, Israeli their caretakersFlying desperately organize the departure Israel for a range of national andTravel inter- homes, offi ces and temples destroyedat Dunkirk in Worldof theWar children II, to Switzerland. Suddenly leftyearswhich on their later, had own, Israeloccurred these was eleven in still inparticipated Haiti by creating tribute fl owers to the end of another year, and Aid – were also involved in rescue, national publications including The Great-children will do the impossible to reach thehelping Swiss rebuildborder in the order community. to 2017 isor fast damaged. approaching! We look Blue Pacifi c, history and continue for relatives lost in theIsrael Holocaust, High Tech as Investor Israel was one of the fi rst countries recoverysurvive. and relief operations in Nepal Feb 2011: A 6.3 magnitude earth- Weekly, Helene. &She Jorge was Glocer I est Skating Race and to occur in the modern well as garden landscapeThe Times fl owers of London created The forward to welcoming you in 2017 along with FIRST, a consortium of and to send humanitarianwith a number aid toof Nepal,His and Name Was RaoulLanguage: French1 hr. 34 min. quakeworld,” in heNew “decided Zealand, to which by killed studentsLin & Ronand the Klein public to fi ll in the The newspaper was first published format. very special pro- Israeli Runninggovernment Time: and army rescue the High-Tech Correspondent for the range and breadth of that aidWallenberg from . The set can 185.create a work of art that garden background scene. Jerusalem Post. grams and events. services. March 2011: The 9.0 magnitudeThe offi cial unveiling of the Memo- so many sectors of Israeli lifebe – thepre-ordered Over with a ayear later, Tevel b’Tzedek would convey seren- Barbara & Barry government,Please the militaryvisit our and varioussigned bookplate, at no earthquakeity and beauty, and tsunami always in Tohoku,rial Garden Epstein will take place in late Janu- and IsraAID are still at work in Nepal, NGOs – waswebsite so significantat www. thatextra the charge, and will keeping in mind our ary 2017 as part of the commemorationLinda & Charles Idelson off ering training and support to help Zelda Dubin Nepalese todayHolocaustMu regard Israel as a besource ready for pickup at hopes, to live in bal- of International Holocaust Remem- villagers get back on their feet. 40 years ago, and has gone through The mission of L’CHAYIM is to seumSWFL.org ance, peace and love Memorial of inspiration. the event. Tevel b’Tzedek runs a youth ser- JEWSbrance Day. & Accordingand lookto fi guresfor our compiled byLuncheon tickets in the world society, ThePhilanthropic Museum is located at 4760 Tuesday, Januaryvice program modeled 24 afterat Israel’s 7:15 p.m. Fund CNN, IsraelJanuary sent more column personnel are to $150the per person, and KEEP QUIET moving away from our Tamiami Trail North, Suite 7, in Naples.pm Shnat Sherut, yearAs Vice of nationalPresident service, of Jobbik, Hungary’s far-rightBROADWAY extremist party, disaster sceneto provide than any addi- other country.sponsorships are avail- mistaken primitive ways It is open year-round Tuesday through Amy in earthquake-devastatedCsanad Szegedi villages regularly to espoused anti-Semitic rhetoric and Marsha & Mike The IDFtional arrived details. in Nepal twoable. days Dress is business of thinkingThursday, and going FebruarySunday; closed Monday 9 at and 7:30 major Jew- Snyder help rebuild communities.Holocaust denials. Tevel He also was a founder of the Hungarian Guard,Opera NaplesKistler several design, paper, size and edito- represent Jewish life in the area by after the fi rst quake, with a teamcasual. of Net proceeds forward with the lessons ish and U.S. holidays Annual Luncheon runs a variety aof now-banned recovery militiaprograms inspired by the Arrow Cross, a pro-Nazi2408 Linwood Avenue, Naples 260 physicians and search-and-rescuebenefit the education We extend our best wishes for The Museum’s Annual Luncheon will in agriculture, partyeducation, complicit disaster-risk in learned.”the murder of thousands of Jews during Anna & Yale Levin experts. Within 12 hours they hadprograms set of the Ho- Happy Holidays to you and your be held on Thursday, December 15 from reduction, resilience,WWII. Thencrisis came interven- a Entitledrevelation “ Thewhich RabbiGarden, transformed Kanter 2016,” presents thehis in-Keeplife. We Jews On Broadway, a sing-along history up a fi eld hospital in Kathmandu,locaust the Museum & EducationSzegedi’s Center maternal grandparents were revealedof the American to be Jewish musical and family.fromCheryl the Gay & ’90s Michael operetta of Romberg & 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at The Ritz- tion and income generation fordividually-framed some painted backgrounds IDF’s largest ever, which includedof twoSWFL. For more information on Friml… through Berlin, Kern, the GershwinsGoldstein and Rodgers & Hart… to Carlton Beach Resort, 280 Vanderbilt 25,000 villagers in six of Nepal’sfeature most an idealizedSondheim, meadow scene. Mel Brooks The andPhoto Kander Credit for& EbbCurious – the George Broadway image above: of today. rial changes. Typical issues have 28-36 providing the voice that reports news, operating tents, four intensive-carereservations and sponsorships, please The requested images from the cover are used Beach Road, Naples. Host Sponsorshis beloved for grandmother an impoverishedAuschwitz survivor regions. who had hiddenmemorial her faith “tributefearing further fl owers” persecution. created dur- Lynda & Michael tents, 60 hospital beds, and specialistscontact Development Specialist Tim $50.00 General seatingin •the $75.00 book by Benefactor permission of Preferred the de Grummond seating the event are Estelle and StuartQuiet Price. depicts Szegedi’s three-yearIsraAID journey runs as hea variety is guided of humani-bying Rabbi the BoruchNovember Oberlander workshops to embrace will be his Rubenstein in neonatal and adult care. Morrison at Tim@HolocaustMuseum Event concludes with Children’san elegant Literature wine Collection,and dessert The Universityreception of Our guest speaker is authornewfound LouiseThe religion, forced totarian confront projects the painful in Nepal truths and of plans his incorporatedfamily’s to be past, intohis own the design.wrongdoing, Under and Mr. the Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS. The team brought 95 tons SWFL.orgof hu- or call 239.263.9200. 1 hr. 30 min. Tickets are available at naplesjewishcongregation.org or mail Borden, who will discuss her turbulentbook, history. of his country.there But for is at this least astonishing three moreRunning transformation years. Time:Diaz’s The direction,a process of some genuine were reparation created byand manitarian and medicalspiritual supplies awakeningMemorial from or is he Gardensimply a desperateArt Installation man with nowhere else to turn? your check made out to Naples Jewish Congregation, along with Journey that Saved Curious George organization distributes warm clothingHolocaust survivors in honor of the fam- pages. information, programs and events im- Israel, and during theirLanguage stay they: English, treatednearing Hebrew completion with English subtitles your name, addressNaples and phone FL 34108, number, Attn to:Tickets NJC, PO Box 111994, The book describes the “story behind to Nepali children, has brought in Israeli 1,600 patients, performed more thanThe 85 Museum’s Memorial Garden the story” of the creation of the much- surgeries and delivered eight babies.Art Installation in loved Curious George character. Be our front windows prepared to learn a lot of “curious” facts is nearing comple- BROADWAY & about everyone’s favorite monkey. Did IF YOU AREtion. AsNOT mentioned in MAKING Each month, readers of L’CHAYIM portant to the local Jewish commu- you know that his original name wasn’t pm our October column, George? Or that he wasn’t the main SOCIAL CHANGE artist Juan Diaz cre- character starring in5% the books ON created YOUR MONEY Friday, February 10 at 7:30 ated the four beautiful by H.A. and Margret Rey? Or that he Unitarian Universalist Congregation ...Then you want topanels give in, us and a ascall. part The product has a almost never got to be famous at all? Ms. 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples • Free admission! of, the LIGHT Per- get news and updates on all Jewish- nity. In accomplishing this mission, the Borden will fi llfixed you in onrate all theof details.5% per annum or higher, paid monthly! Rabbi Kanter will be our guest at Shabbat services, and will trace She is also the authorNo waiting of several around formance until Art the Style end of the term the dominant role played by Jewish composers in Tin Pan Alley. Series for which he is children’s books dealing with Worldto receive your interest! From Irving Berlin and George Gershwin to Jerome Kern and Billy well known. War II and the Holocaust. Five of her Rose, these songs are musical companions to American history. YourWhen Principal he received and InterestThe are Garden, SECURED 2016Created - Acrylic in and on Treatedpart of the Muslin LIGHT Fabric, Performance 6’2” x 16’3” Art Diptych Style Series. (Each Artist: Panel: Juan 6’2” Diaz©x 8’1” and 6’2” x 8’2”) books will be available for purchase at the Memorial com- related local events including the Jew- newspaper seeks to: the event as a set for $60. Titles included No long term commitments – RABBI KENNETH KANTER are The Journey that Saved Curious short duration of about a year Rabbi Kenneth Kanter is a nationally known author Jewish Federationand entertainer offocusing Lee on & theCharlotte Jewish influence Counties This is NOT an ANNUITY De e berand 201 5 F ol.on American No. popular music. Viewers have called ,” STOCKS, OPTIONSd or a REIT This is NOT his unique sing-along concert/ lecture events high-energy,” “inspiring,” “exhilirating,” ish Film Festival, Jewish author pro- • Celebrate Jewish life in Lee and Gold,F Silverthe Ior any other “ an absolutely superb night of entertainment This is NOT “an absolutely“the superb kind ofnight event of weentertainment will long remember.” and joy” and Federation www.JewishFederationLCC.org CommodityIends o Anti srael media iasEvents Jewish
There are NO TRANSCTION FEES OR -Israel sentiments sponsoredon college campuses: Facing anti in part by COMMISSIONS for you toand pay EVER! how to fi x it! grams, holiday celebrations, concerts, Charlotte counties Further the mission of our A PROGRAM FOR1:00 p.m.11TH at ANDTemple 12TH Beth GRADERS El (16225 on to the Fr A CAMERA Letter-Writing Workshop hand accountCONGREGATION of I Winkler Rd, Hear FortJEWISH aMyers), first- is co-spon- to realize that, in my years hink the media are biased? NAPLES overcame Federation 100%and OF community YOURin Jewish MONEY philanthropy, GOESIf you answered yes, you’re sored by thehow Jewish one Federation student of Lee A DAY TO SALUTE OURneither SOLDIERS a Democratic nor a not alone. Americans’ trust inShabbat and services Charlotte antiare Counties held Semitism every and Fridayat Florida Temple night at the Atlantic University FROM THE TO WORK FORRepublican YOU administration IMMEDIATELY! T Beth El. the media has sunk to an all-time low, Th 2016 Unitarian UniversalistThe Congregation,workshop will be 6340 led Napaby Sarit Woods Way, Naples food festivals, book study groups, • Inform, enrich and entertain readers An Introduct For more information,has materially aff please ected incontact a 13 according to a Gallup survey released EXECUTIVE More informationCatz, at 239-431-3858 the Learninternational aboutor www.naplesjewishcongregation.org what'sdirector happening of positive manner those who this past September. DIRECTOR Bruce Greenstein,ECEMBER LUTC CAMERA’s onletter-writing college campuses team, a todaynet- need help the most. There , FL 34119Confi dence in the massWARM media “to • REFORMwith • regard AFFORDABLE to the Boycott, • ADULT Tim Shaw Financial ConsultantsALOMAPLES work of 17,000 volunteers who respond Alan Isaacs 7:00PM - CONCERT Sh N report the news fully, accurately and Divestment & Sanctions (BDS) is never enoughTUESDAY, public Dassistance to go to distorted news coverage of Israel. TEMPLE ROAD OSEN movement, Students for around. And that’s where the JewishICk R fairly” plunged to its lowest level in y the time you read this we will IDGE Ent Chairs: R Catz will speak about recognizing timely lectures, mah jongg and much • Strengthen Jewish identity and (239) 425-9707 ~ [email protected] R Ev Gallup polling history. Only 32% of Justice in Palestine and other INE have voted to elect the next Federation comes in and where AND you, as media bias and then-Israel conduct movements. a hands- 4630 P those polled said they had a great deal anti president of the United States individuals, can have aE LLAINEdecisive impact on letter-writing workshop that will or fair amount of trust in the news. B on the outcome no matter who presides provide attendees with the tools needed and, hopefully, he or she will have News about Israel can be particu- over our country. to respond thoughtfully and eff ectively received a clear mandate to lead our I call on you to reconcile with the VIPlarly SEAT distorted and unfair. In Septem- special guest country. We, as Jews, have endured, $90 PATRON ATE Withto faulty reporting. more. They also get updates from the facilitate participation in Jewish ITED TO Aber, PRIv the same month in which the Gal- election outcome as soon as ARE possible INv E “I don’t believe there’s a journalis- through our longA SPECIALhistory as PERFORMANCE wander- SPONSORS PERFORMANc and begin again*PATRON to further thebEFORE mission ThE lup poll came out, the Committee for ers, the hazards ofOF life POPULAR under dictators, AND TRADITIONAL ckTAIL REcEPTION tic conspiracy to denigrate Israel,” said of our FederationcO and our community Accuracy SEAT in Middle East ReportingRayna in Rose Exelbierds monarchs and otherISRAELI manifestations SONGS PERFORMED of ADMISSION Catz. “ButdWith coverageU does frequently “To strengthen$18 and G enrichENERAL the Jewish America (CAMERA) prompted cor- Stan governance into which we have had 12 AND UNDER suff er from a number of serious prob- BY ISRAELI SOLDIERScommunity by providingFREE andAGES support- rections from 20 major news outlets Coordinator little, if any, input. We have often been lems High that School CAMERA’s staff and letter area’s synagogues and numerous local community life ing philanthropic, educational and so- that had published false informationSoutheast the victims of these rulers and their writers seek to fi x and prevent.” onlcialIne: service https://www.fidf.org/ programs locally,naples-I in IsraeldF-e nsemble16ChAPTERabout the Jewish state. Journalists, she said, are sometimes whims, in some cases to mortalse tI effckets ect. MIAMI CAMERA, the oldest and largest to PurchA and throughout the world” and to pur- The Jewish destiny resided often in the ETS CALL FIDF GREATER FIDF.ORG just uneducated about Middle East his- FOR TICsuek our vision of “A AIMEJewish.SAGONA communi-@ Middle East media monitoring organi- hands of a capricious individual and a Sunday,tory. January “Reports can lack 15,crucial histori-2017 ty305.354.8233 that is based on | jJewish values such zation in the world, will be presenting a - 6:30 PM hostile society. cal context,”4:00 she said. P.M. “Our researchers Jewish organizations. It’s the place they • Provide an efficient advertising and as Tzedakah (benevolence), Tikkun workshop to teach local residents how continued on page 3 I think that it is important in these Olam (repairing the world) and K’lal to combat media bias. The workshop, Jewish Federation
weeks following the election to refl ect - Fort Myers to be held on Monday, December 5 at Yisrael (taking responsibility for one on our standing today as Jews in our another).” 9701 Commerce Center Court society, in our country and in our com- turn to for community news, the com- editorial network to businesses that munity, and to appreciate what we, JEWISH FEDERATIONPizza & beverages will be served as Jews, have accomplished and will ed. imit s l i continue to accomplish irrespective of ce a Sp e. lcom we who governs this country. COMMUNITYGuests are BREAKFAST While I know intimately of Jews in our community who struggle to put Sunday, December 11 munity calendar, candle lighting times, serve our area food on the table, we are a community R.S.V.P to Leni Sack: 239.481.4449 ext. 3 or [email protected]. that is suffi ciently strong and caring 10:00 a.m to help. While some of us suff er the anguish of isolation andPhone loneliness, (305) 354-8233 | Fax (305) 354-8296 | e-mail [email protected] our community reachesFriends out of theand Israel sup- defense Forces is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization. and a business directory. • Assist the Jewish Federation and its ports. While some Jewish ccommunitiesontributions are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law. Guest Speaker : Dr. David Dalin around the world still fi ght anti-Sem-
itism, repression and poverty, we are Topic : The Presidents of the alert and provide relief. United States and the Jews: We cannotRead predict thewith anycurrent as- and previous editions of L’CHAYIM online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org. The newspaper also features “Israel beneficiary agencies to achieve com- surance how we as individuals and as From Abraham Lincoln to Barack Obama a community will be aff ected by the outcome of the election. It is reason- ably safe to assume however, that the needs of our community will not re- & the Jewish World” items, commen- munity building goals duce in quantity or urgency. It is sad David G. Dalin, an ordained -rabbiauthor and or historian, is the author, co editor of eleven books on American Jewish history and politics, and Jewish He has taught at tary pieces and general Jewish interest Christian relations. Ave Maria University, and at the University of Hartford, has been a visiting professor at the Jewish Theological
CROWNE PLAZA Seminary of America, a Research Fellow at Stanford University and a Visiting Fellow at Princeton University. 13051 Bell Tower Drive Fort Myers Based on his book, Dr. Dalin will talk about the role and the Jewish e e tion - presiden- For more information about L’CHAYIM, to receive a free experiences of Jews in various presidential administra- o ee n Ch otte tions. He will illuminate the history of Jewish Counties esents Couvert: $18/person st nnu tial relations, presidential appointments of Jews to politi- the RSVP to Leni by December 7 cal positions, and the history of presidential views and Jewish i m esti policies on Jewish interests and concerns. subscription, or to advertise: 239.481.4449 x3 or o outhwest o i ee es o [email protected] om ete et i s N NPR FIT RG POSTMASTER: S P STAGE 9701 Commerce Center Court DATED RELIGIOUS PAID Call: 239.481.4449 x4 Fort Myers, Florida 33908 NEWS ITEMS. FT MYERS, FL TIME SENSITIVE– PERMIT N 17 PLEASE EXPEDITE! Email: [email protected] DELIVER T C RRENT RESIDENT R Website: L’CHAYIM page at www.JewishFederationLCC.org
8 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Arts & Culture Israeli Folk Dancing o you want to feel connected, folk dancing then builds on these ba- RSVPs are a must each week to get a workout, express your sic steps, incorporating them into all Marsha Kistler at marshatemple2012@ creativity, use your brain, feel other dances. It’s in the repetition of the gmail.com or 239.947.5118. rejuvenated?D Then Israeli folk dancing dances from week to week is for you! that real learning takes All levels of dance expertise are place until one internalizes welcome; no previous dance experience the dances. Group leader required. Each dance session starts out Marsha Kistler shares her with easy, beginner dances so that even 30 years of Israeli dancing newcomers feel comfortable. The group experience and encour- is warm and congenial and anxious ages participants to share to help anyone with basic steps. New their favorite dances. dances are added all the time. Dancing usually starts The local growing group of danc- at 4:00 p.m. on Sundays ers has the pleasure of dancing in the at the Jewish Fed- Federation’s beautiful new facility. eration building at Mellow Mah Jongg People come from all walks of life, from 9701 Commerce Each Tuesday afternoon, an open session of all levels of experience, range in age Center Court, Fort Mah Jongg is held at the Jewish Federation. Players must be at least advanced beginners, from 30-year-olds to 90-year-olds, and Myers. Check out as no lessons are given. from as far away as Naples, to revel in the schedule in the DAY: Tuesdays, 12:30 – 3:30 P.M. the joy of dancing. calendar section FEE: $1 per week For more information, It usually takes about six lessons of L’CHAYIM or call Rona Strausberg to become acquainted with all the ba- at www.JewishFed at 239.949.9003 sic steps and the easier dances. Israeli erationLCC.org. WHEN MY CLIENTSWHEN SPEAK, MY CLIENTSWHENI LISTEN. SPEAK, MY CLIENTSI LISTEN. SPEAK, I LISTEN. It’s a simple but effective way of helping people reach theirIt’s a financial simple but goals effective – and it’s way a ofway helpingof doing peoplebusiness reach that Raymondtheir financial James goals has – pioneeredand it’s a wayfor ofmore doing than business 50 years. that It’s a simple but effective way of helping people reach MakeRaymond your Jamesvoice count. has pioneered Partner with for memore and than get guidance50 years. their financial goals – and it’s a way of doing business that that’sMake yourin tune voice with count. your Partnerlife. LIFE with WELL me PLANNED. and get guidance Raymond James has pioneered for more than 50 years. It’sthat’s a simplein tune withbut effective your life. LIFEway ofWELL helping PLANNED. people reach Make your voice count. Partner with me and get guidance their financial goals – and it’s a way of doing business that that’s in tune with your life. LIFE WELL PLANNED. Raymond James has pioneered for more than 50 years. Make your voice count. Partner with me and get guidance that’s in tune with your life. LIFE WELL PLANNED.
Cary R. Kleinfield | CFP®,MBA Cary R.Registered Kleinfield Principal | CFP®,MBA 9726 Commerce CenterRegistered Ct., Ste Principal 2, Fort Myers, FL 33908 9726 CommerceCaryT 239-322-5022 R. Center Kleinfield Ct., //Ste T877-752-3691 |2, CFP®,MBA Fort Myers, FL 33908 cary.kleinfield.raymondjames.comT 239-322-5022Registered // T877-752-3691Principal // raymondjames.com/invest cary.kleinfield.raymondjames.com9726 Commerce Center Ct., Ste // 2, raymondjames.com/invest Fort Myers, FL 33908 CaryT 239-322-5022 R. Kleinfield // T877-752-3691 | CFP®,MBA cary.kleinfield.raymondjames.comRegistered Principal // raymondjames.com/invest ©2015 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Securities offered through Raymond9726 James Commerce Financial Services, Center Inc., Ct., member Ste 2,FINRA/SIPC. Fort Myers, 15-BDMKT-1770 FL 33908 ME/CW 4/15 ©2015 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Securities offered through Raymond James FinancialT 239-322-5022 Services, Inc., member // T877-752-3691 FINRA/SIPC. 15-BDMKT-1770 ME/CW 4/15 cary.kleinfield.raymondjames.com // raymondjames.com/invest ©2015 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Securities offered through Raymond JamesCONNECTIONS Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. 15-BDMKT-17702017 ME/CW A4/15 Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 9
©2015 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. 15-BDMKT-1770 ME/CW 4/15 Arts & Culture 21st Annual Jewish Film Festival of Southwest Florida he 21st annual Jewish Film Festival of Southwest Florida, pro- duced by the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Coun- ties, will begin January 12 and run through February 7. The localT festival captures the flavor of the larger Jewish film festivals that are held each year in cities like New York, Boston, Atlanta and Los Angeles. This year’s films include a wide variety of international and do- mestic productions that run the gamut of moving you to tears to To order tickets, use the form at right, setting you on the edge of your seats. download an order form at Ticket prices for this year’s event, which includes nine films, are www.JewishFederationLCC.org $96 for the series or $12 for individual films. For more details, call or call Leni Sack at 239.481.4449 x3. the Jewish Federation office at 239.481.4449 x3 or visit www.jewish- federationlcc.org. Thursday, January 12 at 7:15 p.m. Schedule of films: SABENA HIJACKING: MY VERSION All films are shown at the Regal Cinema Bell Tower in Fort Myers at This docu-drama is based on previously undiscovered audio recordings of former pilot Captain Reginald Levy. Captain Levy, now deceased, was 7:15 p.m. except for the 3:00 p.m. matinee on January 22. in command of Sabena Flight 571 from Brussels, Belgium, to Tel Aviv on May 8, 1972, when it was hijacked by four members of Black September, ¡¡ January 12: Sabena Hijacking the armed wing of Fatah or PLO. The film finally shares the untold story of what exactly took place on the flight throughout the 30 hours of nerve- ¡¡ January 17: In Search of Israeli Cuisine wracking captivity. It fuses candid interviews with dramatic reenactments. It takes viewers into the aircraft to witness the events firsthand as the ¡¡ January 19: Fanny’s Journey hijackers threaten to explode hand grenades unless 300 prisoners were released. The result is a fast-paced film full of suspense, which poses ¡¡ January 22: Mr. Predictable historical and political questions that helped to shape the Israel of today. Language: English /Hebrew/Arabic/French ¡¡ January 24: Keep Quiet Running Time: 1 hr. 38 min. ¡ ¡ January 26: The Women’s Balcony Tuesday, January 17 at 7:15 p.m. ¡¡ January 31: The Pickle Recipe ¡ IN SEARCH OF ¡ February 2: Just Another Version of You ISRAELI CUISINE ¡¡ February 7: Harmonia This film is a portrait of the Israeli people told through food. It is drawn from the more than 100 cultures that make up Israel today. Through The theater is located at 13499 Bell Tower Drive in Fort Myers. interviews with chefs, farmers, home cooks, vintners and cheese makers, to visits to farms, markets, restaurants and kitchens, audiences will discover that this hot, multi-cultural cuisine has developed only in the The theater does not sell Jewish Film Festival tickets. last 30 years. In that short time, Israel went from being one of the poorest countries in the world to one of the most advanced. Its sophistication Special thanks to: mirrors the current state of the Israeli people and their food: secular, outward looking and innovative. The chef/guide of the film is Michael Principal Sponsor: Advanced Pain Management & Spine Specialists Solomonov, the James Beard award-winning chef/owner of Zahav and a number of other restaurants in Philadelphia. Producer Sponsors: Radiology Regional Center, Dr. Brian & Sara Language: English Running Time: 1 hr. 34 min. Krivisky; Martha & John Wolf and Miromar Outlets; FineMark Na- tional Bank and Trust; Northern Trust Thursday, January 19 at 7:15 p.m. Director Sponsor: Kushner and Kushner, Attorneys FANNY’S JOURNEY Fanny’s Journey is an incredible tale of bravery, strength and survival – a Screenwriter Sponsors: Gulf Coast Orthodontics, Dr. Michele story of a daring young girl who will stop at nothing and fear no one. In 1943, 13-year-old Fanny and her younger sisters were sent from their Laboda; Lin & Ron Klein; Barbara & Barry Epstein; Sylvia & Paul home in France to an Italian foster home for Jewish children. When the Nazis arrive in Italy, their caretakers desperately organize the departure Simko, Investors Security Trust, Linda & Charles Idelson; PCC of the children to Switzerland. Suddenly left on their own, these eleven children will do the impossible to reach the Swiss border in order to Tile, Helene & Jorge Glocer; Zelda Dubin Memorial Philanthropic survive. Language: French with English subtitles Foundation; Law Firm of Henderson, Franklin, Starnes and Holt, Running Time: 1 hr. 34 min. P.A., Guy Whitesman Film Star Sponsors: Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist of Florida, Dr. Howard N. Barrow; Judi & Richard Davis; Shirley & Byron Frank; Tuesday, January 24 at 7:15 p.m. KEEP QUIET Cheryl & Michael Goldstein; Harriet & Alan Josephson; Marsha & As Vice President of Jobbik, Hungary’s far-right extremist party, Csanad Szegedi regularly espoused anti-Semitic rhetoric and Michael Kistler; Anna & Yale Levin; Lynda & Michael Rubenstein Holocaust denials. He was a founder of the Hungarian Guard, a now-banned militia inspired by the Arrow Cross, a pro-Nazi Festival Friend: Signarama party complicit in the murder of thousands of Jews during WWII. Then came a revelation which transformed his life. Thank you to Regal Cinema for hosting the festival each year. Szegedi’s maternal grandparents were revealed to be Jewish and his beloved grandmother an Auschwitz survivor who had hidden her faith fearing further persecution. Keep A big thank you to the Film Festival Committee: Chair Sara Quiet depicts Szegedi’s three-year journey as he is guided by Rabbi Boruch Oberlander to embrace his newfound religion, forced to confront the painful truths of his family’s past, his own wrongdoing, and the Krivisky, Susie Ferkel, Helene Glocer, Claire Goldhagen, Carolyn turbulent history of his country. But is this astonishing transformation a process of genuine reparation and spiritual awakening or is he simply a desperate man with nowhere else to turn? Gora, Irwin Kash, Dan Sharff, Lynn Talone and Sid Wilker. Language: English, Hebrew with English subtitles Running Time: 1 hr. 30 min.
10 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Arts & Culture Thursday, January 26 at 7:15 p.m. THE WOMEN’S BALCONY An incident during a Bar Mitzvah celebration leads to a gendered rift in ORDER FORM a devout Orthodox community in Jerusalem in this rousing, good-hearted tale about women speaking truth to patriarchal power. The day of Osher’s Indicate your choices on the form below Bar Mitzvah begins auspiciously, with happy guests in their Sabbath best making their way through Jerusalem’s streets. They congregate in the and send it along with your payment to: synagogue and the men look up adoringly at the women’s balcony where their wives, daughters, sisters, cousins and grandmothers are gathered. Then disaster strikes: the floor under the balcony gives way, leaving The Jewish Federation several injured. Most everyone regards the collapse as a tragic result of a structure flaw. No one stops to wonder if it might have been a message 9701 Commerce Center Court from God – until Rabbi David comes along. Language: Hebrew with English subtitles Running Time: 1 hr. 36 min. Fort Myers, FL 33908 Questions? Call 239.481.4449 x3 Tuesday, January 31 at 7:15 p.m. or email [email protected]. THE PICKLE RECIPE Joey Miller is a single father and deeply in debt. To make matters worse, Name______he’s a DJ and his work equipment is destroyed in a freak accident. His daughter Julie’s Bat Mitzvah is only four weeks away and she is counting Address______on him to DJ her party. After exhausting all his options, he turns to his shady Uncle Morty, who agrees to give him the money he needs to get back into business, but only under one condition. Joey must steal his City______ST____ Zip______grandmother Rose’s most prized possession – her famous top-secret dill pickle recipe. It’s a recipe she has vowed to take to her grave. Phone______Language: English Running Time: 1 hr. 37 min. Email______Tickets will be mailed up to December 31. Tickets ordered after December 31 will be Thursday, February 2 at 7:15 p.m. available after 6:00 p.m. inside the theater the day of the show. No refunds on tickets. JUST ANOTHER VERSION OF YOU OPEN SEATING AT ALL FILMS This documentary profiles legendary TV mogul Norman Lear, best known for creating a number of groundbreaking 1970s sitcoms – All in the Family, Sanford and Son, The Jeffersons, One Day at a Time, Maude, SERIES OF 9 EVENING FILMS: $96 Good Times – that mirrored the cultural changes roiling the country. Through his shows, Norman Lear boldly cracked open dialogues and INDIVIDUAL FILMS: $12 each shifted the national consciousness into sociopolitical debates on race, class, creed and feminism. The film uses the recurring motif of a theater filled with television screens as a means to explore Lear’s personal life, Indicate # of tickets desired for each film: his work and his impact on American society. Language: English Running Time: 1 hr. 31 min. _____ Series Ticket...... (all 9 films) _____ Sabena Hijacking...... 1/12/17 Tuesday, February 7 at 7:15 p.m. _____ In Search of Israeli Cuisine....1/17/17 HARMONIA _____ Fanny’s Journey...... 1/19/17 This film is inspired by the biblical story of Abraham, Sarah and Hagar. Sarah, the harpist of the Jerusalem Philharmonic, is married to Abraham, _____ Keep Quiet...... 1/24/17 the conductor. They have no children. When Hagar, a young horn player from East Jerusalem joins the orchestra, Sarah’s world changes. The two _____ The Women’s Balcony...... 1/26/17 women develop a unique friendship that is challenged when Hagar offers Sarah to have a baby for her, from Abraham. When the baby is born, _____ The Pickle Recipe...... 1/31/17 Hagar leaves the orchestra and the newborn son, Ben, with Sarah and Abraham. Twelve years pass, Ben is a phenomenal pianist, yet wild and uncontrollable. Something is wrong, he feels it deep inside. At the same _____ Just Another Version of You.....2/2/17 time, Sarah gets pregnant in her late forties and gives birth to Isaac. When Isaac is three, Hagar returns to the orchestra and an unexpected series of _____ Harmonia...... 2/7/17 events lead to the fated ending. Language: German with English subtitles MATINEE Running Time: 1 hr. 37 min. _____ Mr. Predictable...... 1/22/17 Sunday, January 22 at 3:00 p.m. MR. PREDICTABLE _____ Total Due When Adi was 5 years old, his father died in the war in Lebanon. Before he left home, his father made Adi swear he would be a good boy, help his r Check payable to Jewish Federation enclosed mother and be responsible. Adi kept his promise: he helped more than enough at home, at school, in the military, in his marriage – he became the most thoughtful man you can imagine. Or to say it another way – Adi Charge: r MasterCard r Visa r Amex r Discover became a “sucker” who was exploited by his mother, his wife, his son, his boss and nearly everyone he ever met. Things change radically on Name on card______the day Adi meets Natalia – a sweet, young, wild girl who entices him into a life full of emotion, passion and romance. Now Adi has to choose between love and reason, between dreams and reality, between Natalia Card#______and his family. Language: Hebrew with English subtitles Exp. Date______Running Time: 1 hr. 43 min. Matinee
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 11 Arts & Culture JFed Stitchers 2017 Shared of Christ Scientist and Captiva Chapel by the Sea. Bat Yam’s share is provided he JFed Stitchers started as a Scholar: by the Leo Rosner Foundation in honor group taking on a mitzvah proj- of June Rosner. ect to benefit the Israel Defense Heidi Neumark For more information, call the tem- TForces (IDF). Knitters and crocheters he Reverend Heidi Neumark, ple office at 239.395.2544. were recruited to make wool helmet pastor of Trinity Lutheran liners and caps for Israeli soldiers dur- Church of Manhattan, was se- Federation ing the winter months. The patterns and Tlected as the 2017 Shared Scholar. She the yarn were provided by the Jewish will present her program at 7:30 p.m. Book Club Federation of Lee and Charlotte Coun- on Monday, January 23 in the Sanc- he Jewish Federation book club ties, and the skill and commitment to tuary of the Sanibel Congregational meets on the 4th Wednesday of contribute to the project were provided United Church of Christ. each month at 6:00 p.m. at the by the volunteers! It was a great begin- Reverend Neumark’s presentation TFederation building. Members of the ning project because the knitting or will expand upon the story of her dis- book club bring their dinner and enjoy crocheting could be done at home or in covery of her Jewish ancestry, which sitting around the table to discuss the a group. she detailed in her book, Hidden Inheri- month’s selection. The group also meets once a month tance: Family Secret, Memory and Faith. Book club members take turns se- to share progress on the mitzvah proj- Her search includes finding that her lecting the monthly read, as well as ect, as well as to share their own knit- grandfather died in the Terezin concen- leading the discussion. While most ting or crocheting designs. Once the tration camp. Her journey into her past books read are of Jewish content, it is helmet liners are completed, the group has had life-changing repercussions for not a requirement in deciding what to is committed to working on other mitz- her future. Her book combines per- read. vah projects to benefit those in need. sonal narrative, social history and the- As one member pointed out when The group welcomes anyone who ology, interweaving them into a story the book club was newly formed: enjoys doing this needlework, as well as that portrays the challenges to the au- “Even if the content is not Jewish, our the comradery of sharing that skill with thor’s identity, vocation and theology. opinions, our ideas and our perspec- others. The Shared Scholar program is co- tives are all influenced by our Jewish If you would like to participate, sponsored annually by Temple Bat Yam, backgrounds.” contact Leni Sack at 239.481.4449 x3 or the Sanibel Congregational United For more information, contact Leni [email protected]. Church of Christ, St Michael and All Sack at 239.481.4449 x3 or lenibsack@ Angels Episcopal Church, First Church jfedlcc.org.
JOIN US FOR AN AUTHOR EVENT with Victoria Kelly author of the bestselling novel, Mrs. Houdini
Wednesday, March 1 at 7:00 p.m.
Co sponsored by the Jewish Federation & the Alliance for the Arts at the Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
After Ms. Kelly’s talk, enjoy a reception Cost: $10 and book signing. Copies of her book RSVP to www.artinlee.org will be available for purchase. Seating is limited.
12 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Arts & Culture Douglas Renfroe Doug and Friends, Sanibel Congre- at the Sanibel Congregational United gational United Church of Christ Church of Christ, 2050 Periwinkle Way, in concert ¡¡ Saturday, February 11 at 7:30 p.m.: Sanibel. esidents of Sanibel and sur- Evening of Love Songs, FGCU, Bo- For more information, visit www. rounding communities can hear nita Springs batyam.org or all the Church office at Temple Bat Yam’s Cantorial So- ¡¡ Sunday, February 12 at 3:00 p.m.: 239.472.0497. loist,R Doug Renfroe, at several venues Voices of Naples, Sanibel Congre- this season. Doug’s magnificent bass- gational United Church of Christ Psalms Beyond baritone singing will include selections ¡¡ Sunday, February 26 at 3:00 p.m.: Boundaries from operas, Voices of Naples, Naples United n Wednesday, March 22 at operettas and Church, Naples 1:00 p.m. at the Alliance of the Broadway. In Arts, the Sisterhood of Temple other events, he “God As Seen OBeth El invites you to attend an Israeli sings with and Art Exhibit. Carolyn Gora will serve as conducts the In Broadway the docent for this extraordinary ex- choral group. Musical Theatre” hibit and there is no charge. Refresh- The pub- antorial Soloist Doug Renfroe ments will be provided. lic is welcome. and Reverend John Danner For more information, please call There is no fee. A good will offering is present “God As Seen In Broad- the temple office at 239.433.0018. appreciated. Cway Musical Theatre” on Wednesdays, For more information, call the tem- February 8 and 15 at 10:00 a.m. and stay connected at ple office at 239.395.2544. again at 7:30 p.m. ¡ www.JewishFederationLCC.org ¡ Sunday, January 22 at 3:00 p.m.: The events are free and take place
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 13 Arts & Culture
Studying family history brings more than just historical knowledge, Laugh with it builds relationships. Learning the stories behind names and dates teaches a personal history that explains more than just how each Hadassah person came to be. EVERYONE WELCOME. hat could be more artsy than revisiting the Catskills Jewish Genealogy SIG (Special Interest Group) and going back to the Meetings: 2nd Thursday of each month WBorscht Belt for some entertainment? 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. at the Federation office The Collier/Lee Chapter of Ha-
LEARN HOW TO BEGIN RESEARCH INTO YOUR FAMILY’S HISTORY dassah presents “The Kosher Comedy OR GET HELP FINDING NEW STRATEGIES TO ENHANCE THE SEARCH Tour” headlined by Peter Fogel, Stu YOU HAVE ALREADY STARTED. Moss and Marlyn Sanchez, who will There is no cost to attend. sing, dance, tell jokes and do major RSVP to Leni at [email protected] or 239.481.4449 x3 shtick! The event takes place on Thursday, February 2 at Temple Shalom in Naples. THANK YOU TO ALL OUR ADVERTISERS For more information, email Elissa Goldstein at [email protected]. Please come to this delightful event and support the incredible organization that does so much for Israel, the Jewish people, and people all over the United States and the world – Hadassah! Brown Bag
Movie Nights ne evening a month through- Ronny S Taschner DDS out the year The Commu- Active Member of the American Academy of Periodontology nity Free Synagogue offers its O“Brown Bag Movie Night” in the syna- Jennifer Taschner DDS MMSc gogue’s Community Hall. It’s called that Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology since participants are encouraged to pack brown bag dinners to enjoy dur- ing the movies. Admission is always free, and C.F.S. supplies complimentary soft drinks. Rabbi Bruce Diamond often ac- cepts recommendations for the features that he picks for the movie nights. Past favorites have included The Frisco Kid, Enemies: A Love Story, Yoo-Hoo, Mrs. Goldberg and the Sophie Tucker biopic, The Last of the Red Hot Mammas, to name just a few. C.F.S.’s “Brown Bag Movie Nights” are open to all. For a schedule of films, 1645 Medical Lane, Fort Myers, FL visit www.fortmyerssynagogue.com.
Phone 239-936-0635 To contact the editor of Visit Our Website www.taschnerperio.com Connections, send an email to [email protected].
14 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Holocaust Studies Arts & Culture Center for Judaic, Holocaust, Annual Holocaust and Genocide Studies Memorial Service he Center for Judaic, Holocaust, the university, the wider community, ach year, the Jewish Federation and Genocide Studies at Flor- and in partnership with educational of Lee and Charlotte Counties ida Gulf Coast University is a and other organizations throughout the sponsors a moving educational Tuniversity-focused academic institu- State of Florida, the United States and Eprogram to remember the Holocaust tion, established in 2005 due to the pi- internationally. and teach about it to the next genera- oneering efforts of several members of The Center will host a number tion. The service reminds us of what the Jewish communities of Southwest of events of various types during the can happen when bigotry, hatred and Florida. course of the year, all with the inten- indifference go unchecked. Conscious of the fact that the past tion of educating new generations of The 2017 service will be held at century was the bloodiest in history, the students. 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 23 at Tem- Center has several priorities: to increase Where it is possible and feasible, ple Beth El, 16225 Winkler Road, Fort knowledge and understanding about events will be open to the wider com- Myers. the Holocaust and other genocides; to munity as well as the university com- enhance understanding of Jewish life munity, and these will be advertised “An Afternoon through educational initiatives; and to widely beforehand. In such circum- with Maude rescue the history of the vibrant Jewish stances, it is always imperative that communities that were lost. Over the outside guests of the university obtain Daume” years the Center has grown from offer- a parking permit from the Welcome he community is invited to “An ing a few events relating to Holocaust Booth upon arriving on campus. Afternoon with Maude Daume,” and other commemorations, to one Interested members of the commu- a Holocaust program presented which has become a focus in Southwest nity are invited to refer to the Center Tby the Sisterhood and Men’s Club of Florida for all academic matters relat- website in order to learn of new initia- Temple Beth El. The event will be held ing to Jewish civilization, the Holo- tives and developments. at the temple on Sunday, February 19 at caust, genocide and remembrance. For information about the Center 2:00 p.m. and includes a movie about In the forthcoming year the Cen- and its events, as well as giving oppor- her life followed by a presentation by ter will continue in its quest to increase tunities to assist in the development of Maude Daume. There is no charge and knowledge and understanding about Center programs, please contact: refreshments will be served. the Holocaust and other genocides, as Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director For more information, please call well as to strengthen the democratic 239.590.7239 or the temple office at 239.433.0018. institutions that can confront geno- [email protected] cide and other threats to human rights, www.fgcu.edu/hc/ For a continuously such as intolerance, anti-Semitism, rac- Florida Gulf Coast University updated calendar ism and ignorance. The Center seeks 10501 FGCU Boulevard South of events, visit to achieve these aims through provid- Fort Myers, FL 33965 ing educational opportunities within www.JewishFederationLCC.org.
Ryder Orthopaedics INC. Adult and Pediatric Prosthetics and Orthotics Lowell S. Schoenfeld Florida Board Certified Wills, Laura E Ryder, CPO, FAAOP Trusts & Estates Attorney Prosthetist/Orthotist 1380 Royal Palm Square Boulevard Fort Myers, Florida 33919 239-936-7200 1500 Royal Palm Sq Blvd 1250 Tamiami Trail N #104 [email protected] Fort Myers, FL 33919 Naples, FL 34102 239-939-0009 239-643-6673 www.gskattorneys.com
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 15 Arts & Culture Museums Holocaust Museum & Education Center of SW Florida he Holocaust Museum & Ed- homes and communities. Museum Exhibits and Special Events ucation Center of Southwest Education Programs The Museum hosts both a permanent Florida in Naples celebrates its Since 2001, the Museum has helped collection of artifacts, photographs and T16th anniversary in 2017. It has hosted educators comply with the Florida State documents as well as special temporary thousands of visitors from all over the mandate on teaching about the Holo- exhibits throughout the year. Special world. caust through semi-annual professional events open to the community include Mission development seminars, providing class- film and discussions, lecture series, stu- The Museum’s mission is to teach the room-ready teaching materials and dent activities, guest speaker and Holo- lessons of the Holocaust to inspire ac- thoughtful, age-appropriate program- caust survivor presentations. tion against bigotry, hatred and vio- ming. To date, Museum Educators have Location, Hours, Tours lence. Students and visitors alike learn taught in six Southwest Florida coun- The Museum is located at 4760 Tamiami that one person can make a difference ties, impacting over 150,000 SWFL Trail North, Suite 7, in Naples. It is open by promoting positive change in their students, grades K-through college/ year-round Tuesdays through Sundays, university level. In addi- and closed Mondays and major Jew- tion, the Boxcar Exhibit, ish and U.S. holidays. Hours: January on loan to the Museum - April: Tuesdays-Fridays 12:30-5:00 from Jack and F.E. Nort- p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays 1:00- man and The Boxcar 4:00 p.m.; May-December: Tuesdays Foundation, has served as through Sundays 1:00-4:00 p.m. School the centerpiece of many groups and private tours available by community-wide events appointment. seen by approximately For more information, please visit 90,000 people on its trav- www.HolocaustMuseumSWFL.org or els throughout SWFL. call 239.263.9200.
Janet Astrin Sales Associate 14360 S. Tamiami Trail • Fort Myers, Florida 33912 Joint replacement & reconstruction surgery (239) 482-3001 • Fax (239) 482-8846 Outpatient hip & knee replacement • Minimally invasive technologies leelightingflorida.com Arthroscopic surgery of the knee & shoulder Treatment of sports-related injuries, pains & problems Like us on Facebook Joint pain & arthritis care • Fracture care David M. Heligman, M.D. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI – Doctorate of Medicine Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center, Chicago, IL – Orthopaedic Surgery Diplomate – American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons LEHIGH ACRES ESTERO MEDICAL CENTER 1530 Lee Boulevard 10201 Arco Avenue Suite 1700, Lehigh Acres Suite 206, Estero RIVERWALK ORTHOPAEDIC CENTER 8350 Riverwalk Park Boulevard 3571 Del Prado Blvd North • North Cape Coral 543-2075 Suite 1, Ft. Myers 8841 College Parkway • Ft. Myers 433-2245 est.1995 www.jointteam.com • 239-482-5399 ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS • CALL TODAY FOR A CONSULTATION
16 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Museums Arts & Culture Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU his is the only museum telling a copper dome, marble bimah and 80 Jewish history time lines, films, Orovitz the story of 250 years of Florida stained-glass windows. Museum Store, and a Collections and Jewish life. Jewish Museum of MOSAIC, the permanent exhi- Research Center complete the experi- TFlorida-FIU on South Beach is housed bition, shows how Jews maintained ence, in addition to a full schedule of in two lovingly restored buildings that their traditions and communities as events and educational programs that were formerly synagogues for Miami they contributed to develop the state. complement the current exhibits. Beach’s first congregation. Both on the Changing temporary exhibits focus on Annual programs include Florida National Register of Historic Places, themes of Jewish history, art and cul- Jewish History Month in January and the 1936 Art Deco building features ture – each with a Florida connection. Jewish American Heritage Month in May (both initiated by the Museum), Purim Gala, Judaica competitions and Breaking the Glass Ceiling Awards. Open 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day except Mondays and holidays. For more information: Jo Ann Arnowitz, Executive Director & Chief Curator 305.672.5044 x3180 or [email protected] www.jewishmuseum.com 301 Washington Avenue Miami Beach, FL 33139 REHAB THERAPY WITH
SPECIALIZED RESULTS. THERAPIES INCLUDE:
• aqua therapy RAPID RECOVERY INPATIENT • orthopedics & OUTPATIENT PROGRAMS • stroke care AT THE REHABILITATION CENTER & THE LARSEN PAVILION • dysphagia The Rehabilitation Center at • memory care Shell Point features a state-of- the-art aqua therapy pool (239) 415-5432 • pain management • low vision Call today to learn more and to schedule your personal tour, • dedicated occupational or visit SHELLPOINT.ORG/REHAB. therapy suite Shell Point is a nonprofit ministry of The Christian and Missionary Alliance Foundation, Inc. ©2016 Shell Point. All rights reserved. PAV-558-16
PAV-558-16 Connections Directory 2017_Rehab.indd 1 10/24/16 8:23 AM CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 17 Adult Education
Early 2017 & Ongoing Classes Jewish Learning Institute at Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida erving learning centers in over proaches to engage, educate and inspire utilize electronic polling to communi- 900 communities online, the all kinds of minds in a dynamic Jewish cate their answers. Rohr Jewish Learning Institute learning experience. “Survival of a Nation: Exploring S(JLI) is the world’s preeminent provider Upcoming courses: Israel Through the Lens of the of Jewish learning. There’s an aha! mo- “Ethical Conundrums: Modern Six-Day War” ment in every lesson. Dilemmas. Talmudic Debates. The fifty-year anniversary of the Six- JLI’s mission is to make Jewish Your Solutions” Day War provides an historic opportu- learning accessible and personally Strange as it may seem, this is a course nity to discover what Israel means to us meaningful to every Jew, regardless without a topic. Instead, it provides today. More than a history, it is a course of background or affiliation. JLI’s in- an engaging new approach to Talmud about connection; understanding our sightful curricula utilizes cutting-edge study. Each lesson presents a case study connection to our land, to our people, pedagogic techniques, embracing the with a seemingly impossible ethical co- and to our heritage through the prism multiple intelligence model and uti- nundrum, and explores original Talmu- of the events and themes of the Six-Day lizing multimedia and an array of ap- dic texts for solutions. Students study War. texts in pairs, ar- For more information, please call riving at their own 239.433.7708 or visit www.chabadswf. conclusions, and org.
Bar / Bat Mitzvah Specialist Stay in touch Choosing the right photographer is an important decision. Michael Shapiro has more than 30 years experience in media throughout the year. and journalism. He is able to capture images that are unique, unexpected and spontaneous. Sign up for the Federation’s e-blasts. Stay Connected. Register for our email newsletter. Get the latest information on upcoming www.jfedsrqcommunity events.org and cultural activities, breaking news, updates from Israel and more. Other Services: Weddings / Family Portraits / Events 239.770.6860 Send an email to [email protected] www.shapiro-photography.com [email protected]
18 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Early 2017 & Ongoing Classes Adult Education Gerald Ziedenberg ¡¡ The Right Wrong Man, the story of Adult Education John Demjanjuk and the last great lectures Nazi War Crimes Trial at Temple Beth El ¡ erald Ziedenberg, historian, ¡ The Russian Jews: Vasilyu Gross- abbi Nicole Luna hosts Torah lecturer, author and winter man, one of the greatest figures of Study on Saturday mornings resident, is returning to pres- Soviet literature and a war corre- at 9:00 a.m. Her Liturgy and entG his popular lecture series at Temple spondent, one of the first to tell the LearningR Class is held each Wednesday Beth El in Fort Myers. story of the Nazi death camps afternoon at 1:30 p.m., and a Lunch and ¡ The community is invited to attend ¡ Natan Sharansky, who led the fight Learn at a local restaurant is scheduled each Monday evening beginning on to free Soviet Jewry and led the im- at noon on the third Thursday of each January 9 through migration that changed the face of month. Winter resident and historian March 27 (ex- Israel Gerald Ziedenberg holds weekly eve- ¡ cluding February ¡ The Scientists: Dr. Jonas Salk, the ning lectures on a variety of subjects 13 and 27) from renowned scientist who saved tens throughout the season. 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. of thousands from the scourge of Members hold a weekly Current and learn about polio Events class each Thursday morning at ¡ history through ¡ Albert Einstein, a one-time math- 10:00 a.m. The Media Monitors Round- lectures, discus- ematician, physicist, philosopher, table group, which discusses and takes Gerald Ziedenberg sions and films. cosmologist, Zionist and a refugee actions regarding examples of current Topics for the winter series include: from Nazi Germany media bias of Israel and events in the ¡¡ The Holocaust: Dr. Januscz Korc- Classes are free. Please call the Middle East, meets on the fourth Mon- zak, the heroic doctor of the War- temple office for further information at day of each month in the temple library saw Ghetto who would not leave 239.433.0018. at 11:00 a.m. his 200 orphan children and save For more information, please call himself the temple office at 239.433.0018.
Are sexual behaviors interfering with your daily life? Temple Are you chronically dissatisfied in your relationships? Beth Shalom Now there’s help. I offer confidential and non-judgmental assessment and treatment for compulsive sexual behaviors and adult relationship issues. Rena Essrog, MSS, LCSW, CSAT 215-939-6476 [email protected] Conveniently located in Estero Park Commons
• 21 years experience as a Therapist with Jewish Family Services You’ve found your home in Florida • Certified in Couples and Family Therapy • Certified Sex Addiction Therapist with the International Institute for Trauma and 702 SE 24th Ave Cape Coral FL 33990 Addiction Professionals (IITAP) 239 772 4555 / www.templebethshalomcc.org • Master of Social Service from Bryn Mawr College “Come as a guest, leave as a friend, return as family” Don’t wait – call today and get your life back
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 19 Adult Education Early 2017 & Ongoing Classes Adult Education Jewish Learning Institute at at Bat Yam Chabad Jewish Center of Cape Coral at Yam’s Saturday morning adult erving learning centers in over lizing multimedia and an array of ap- education classes are held from 900 communities and online, the proaches to engage, educate and inspire November through April each Rohr Jewish Learning Institute all kinds of minds in a dynamic Jewish Byear and are open to the public. S(JLI) is the world’s preeminent provider learning experience. Beginning at 9:00 a.m., Rabbi Myra of Jewish learning. Chabad Jewish Cen- Upcoming courses include “Tal- Soifer leads a session of Hebrew read- ter of Cape Coral is proud to be an af- mud Interactive: Ethical Conundrums. ing and translation from the Linear filiate of JLI. Ancient Debates. Your Solutions.” and Chumash/Devorim. JLI’s mission is to make Jewish “Survival of a Nation: Exploring Israel At 9:30 a.m., Rabbi Soifer shifts learning accessible and personally Through the Lens of the Six-Day War.” from Hebrew to English and to this sea- meaningful to every Jew, regardless For more information and to reg- son’s topic, “It’s a Mitzvah.” Each week of background or affiliation. JLI’s in- ister, please call the Chabad office at she will explore one of the 613 ethical sightful curricula utilizes cutting-edge 239.963.4770 or visit www.chabadcape. and ritual mitzvot that Jews are ex- pedagogic techniques, embracing the com. pected to follow. multiple intelligence model and uti- The third segment of the morning is the province of Bat Yam’s members. “Simple Truths” at Chabad Each week a member speaks about some aspect of Jews in the Diaspora, of Charlotte County this season’s theme. he Jewish Women’s Circle of small miracles of everyday life and On Thursdays at 12:30 p.m., Rabbi Chabad of Charlotte County about gaining perspective when we’re in Soifer will teach the “off-season” Torah presents a new course: the gym, on the road or in the kitchen. portions. T“Simple Truths – Pivotal Jewish In- In “Simple Truths” we grapple with On Wednesdays, January 11, 18 sights for Centered Living.” fundamental Jewish viewpoints that and 25, at 10:00 a.m. and repeated at Life is tumultuous, like a ship profoundly shift our perspective. We 7:30 p.m., Rabbi Soifer, Reverend Dan- crashing about on the waves of a roar- train ourselves to see G-d’s hand in ev- ner and Imam Abdul ‘Haq Muhammed ing ocean storm. At times it can seem ery situation; and, where G-d is discov- from Fort Myers will jointly lecture directionless, with unexpected chal- ered, challenge becomes opportunity, on “The Status of Women,” “War and lenges throwing us about in every negative becomes positive, setback be- Peace” and “The Messiah.” which way. However, fortunate for us, comes turning point, and vulnerability On Thursday, February 23 at 10:00 buried within our tool chest is an an- and weakness become impetuses for a.m., Rabbi Soifer and Reverend Dan- chor we can cast to restore stability. growth and connection. ner will offer a different perspec- This course is about taking to heart The course includes seven classes tive on those Bible texts often cited as life’s simple truths, the ones that em- that meet once a month for seven con- anti-LGBT. power us to overcome our everyday secutive months. The first class took All classes are free and held at Bat struggles; not by facing the challenges place in December. The course fee of Yam’s host, the Sanibel Congregational one by one, but by finding our center $100 includes a course workbook. The United Church of Christ located at and aligning with our inner truth. fee per class is $18. 2050 Periwinkle Way on Sanibel. It is a spiritual search for G-d, but For more information, please call For more information, go to www. from a cosmopolitan, down-to-earth Sheina at 941.258.0188 or visit chabad batyam.org. For the joint programs, call and plain-spoken approach. It’s about ofcharlottecounty.com. the Church office at 239.472.0497. training ourselves to see G-d in the To read this publication online, visit the Connections page at www.JewishFederationLCC.org.
20 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties There is no need to live in CONSTANT PAIN!
Providing leading edge treatment to relieve:
Sciatica Joint Arthritis Back Pain Spinal Stenosis Neck Pain Herniated Discs Neuralgia Sacral Fractures RSD/CRPS Post Surgical Pain Cancer Pain Spinal Pain and Auto Injuries Shingles Pain Vertebral Compression Fractures Jonathan S. Daitch, MD
Michael E. Frey, MD
Accepting New Patients!
239.437.8000
8255 College Parkway
Fort Myers, FL 33919
www.apmss.net Michael E. Frey, MD Jonathan S. Daitch, MD Community Services
Support Programs & Resources Senior Visits The Food Pantry he Jewish Federation’s Senior he Jewish Federation Commu- shampoo. Visits program takes place nity Food Pantry, a division of We accept checks made out to the three times a year – just before Jewish Family Services and af- Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte TRosh Hashanah, Hanukkah and Pass- Tfiliated with the Harry Chapin Food Counties and gift cards from any of the over. These visits mean the world to Bank, provides sustenance to those in supermarkets in the area. the senior citizens that the volunteers the Lee and Charlotte County area who We cannot accept the following: encounter. are in need of the most basic nourish- pork products, outdated items, opened Volunteers fill gift bags with edible ment and support. packages, perishable food products. kosher treats, prayer guides and gifts, The pantry is stocked with non- We thank you in advance for help- sometimes handmade by children in perishable food items and is open five ing those in need in our community! our community. Then more volunteers days a week to the general public. stop by the Federation office to pick up Appointments to pick up items pre-filled bags and deliver them to Jew- must be made in advance. Call ish senior citizens throughout Lee and 239.481.4449. Charlotte counties. Items may be dropped off Many Jewish seniors are isolated at the Jewish Federation Food from the rest of their families and have Pantry, 9701 Commerce Center limited contact with the world outside Court, Fort Myers, Monday thru of their homes or assisted living facili- Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ties. These visits provide this segment Here is a list of items that are cur- of our population with a Jewish con- rently needed (in standard-size nection, which is uniquely important at packages, not family size): this life stage. Canned tomato products, The Senior Visits for Passover will pasta sauce, pasta, mac and cheese take place on Sunday, April 2. Gift bags mixes, canned vegetables, canned are also given to seniors for Rosh Ha- fruit, cereals (hot and cold), tuna shanah and Chanukah. fish, peanut butter, jelly, crack- For more information on how to get ers, cookies, rice, beans (dry and involved with this rewarding program, canned), powdered soups, pow- contact Leni Sack at 239.481.4449 x3 or dered milk, coffee, tea, toothpaste, [email protected]. toothbrushes, soap, deodorant, Jewish Family Services, located in the Jewish Federation building at 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, can be reached at 239.481.4449 x6.
22 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Life Cycle Resources Community Services Mikvah Temple Beth El’s ikvah Bashka (named in memory of Bernice/ Bashka Orkin Kaye) serves Jewish women in an Annual Mitzvah Day elegant, spa-like facility. Personal instruction is of- ne of the most important dates on Temple Beth El’s feredM prior to the use of the mikvah, in order to familiarize calendar is its annual Mitzvah Day each spring. a Jewish woman with the laws and customs associated with From supporting the troops to caring for the envi- Oronment, from helping sick children to feeding the hungry, Jewish family purity. Private appointments are necessary for use of the mikvah. Please call Chava at 239.898.0079 or there is a project for everyone. Temple members, young and Sivan at 646.200.3671. old, participate in the many activities planned. It has always been an opportunity to work together on a variety of projects Chevra Kadisha that help the synagogue, our community and the world. In past years, volunteers have written letters to solders, he Chevra Kadisha, or Jewish Burial Society, is an made and delivered sandwiches for the homeless, collected organization of Jewish men and women who see to it and created baskets of necessary toiletries for women in that the bodies of Jews are prepared for burial accord- shelters, delivered homemade knit shawls to cancer patients Ting to Jewish tradition. The two main requirements are the in treatment, delivered gift bags to the Children’s Hospital, showing of proper respect for the deceased’s body, and the rit- made and sent hundreds of cool ties for troops in the deserts, ual cleansing and subsequent dressing for burial. cleaned up Fort Myers Beach, raised money for Relay for For further information and guidance, please call Rabbi Life and Lighthouse for the Blind, donated items to Dress for Yitzchok Minkowicz at Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Success and the local Humane Society, held successful blood Florida at 239.433.7708. drives, and educated and signed up people to be organ and Garden of Memories Cemetery bone marrow donors. Over 200 men, women and children participate each emple Beth El owns a small cemetery located within year, and Temple Beth El is proud to be continuing this the City of Fort Myers at 3200 Michigan Avenue. This annual event. For more information, please call the temple is the oldest Jewish and only temple-owned cemetery office at 239.433.0018. Tin Lee County. It is exclusively for temple members and their immediate family. Also in the cemetery is a solid granite “Memorial Wall” where names and dates of loved ones buried elsewhere can INTERNIST OF THE YEAR AWARD be engraved. Presented by the Florida Chapter Each year, two special services are held in the cemetery of the American College to honor and remember those buried there and those whose of Physicians names have been inscribed on the “Wall” – the High Holy Days Cemetery Memorial Service and a Veterans Memorial www.doctorben.net Day Service. For more information, please call the temple office at 239.433.0018. Funeral Homes & Cemeteries AARP Auto Insurance Program AARP fAroumto TInsuhe Hranarctfeo Prdrogram Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home & Cemetery Now avaiflabrolem fro mT yheour locaHal inrdtefpoenrddent agent! Now available from your local independent agent! 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, 239.936.0555 Call Today for your FREE, no-obligation quote: Call Today for your FREE, no-obligation quote: 239-337-2221 Phil Gaylor 239-337-2221 Kays Ponger & Uselton Funeral Homes LOTTPhil Gaylor & GAYLOR INC Port Charlotte - 941.625.4113; Punta Gorda - 941.639.1133 2120LOTT WEST & GAYLOR FIRST STREET INC FORT2120 WESTMYERS FIRST, FL, 33901STREET [email protected] MYERS, FL, 33901 Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery [email protected] Garden of David Hodges Funeral Home at Lee Memorial Park - 239.334.4880 The AARP Automobile Insurance Program from The Hartford is underwritten by Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates, One Hartford Plaza, TheHartford AARP CT Automobile 06155. CA Insurance license number Program 5152. from TheAARP Hartford membership is underwritten is required by for Hartford Program Fire eligibility Insurance in mostCompany states. and AARP its affiliates, does not One employ Hartford or endorse Plaza, Coral Ridge Funeral Home & Cemetery - 239.283.0540 Hartfordagents or CT brokers. 06155. You CA have license the optionnumber of 5152.purchasing AARP a policymembership directly isfrom required The Hartford. for Program Your eligibility price, however, in most could states. vary, AARP and doesyou will not not employ have theor endorse advice, agentscounsel or or brokers. services You of yourhave independent the option of agent. purchasing a policy directly from The Hartford. Your price, however, could vary, and you will not have the advice, Hodges - Kiser Funeral Home - 239.481.4341 counsel or services of your independent agent.
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 23 Organizations
Special Interest Groups Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah ver 100 years ago, one Jewish resources to fight disease. The stunning Karen Cohn, co-President woman, Henrietta Szold, had results of HMO clinical trials for poten- 239.370.6220 the ability and determination tial treatments of ALS and other neuro- [email protected] Oto take action and create change at a degenerative diseases have riveted the Donna Goldblatt, Membership time when women were not even per- worldwide medical community. co-Vice President, 239.597.3441 mitted to vote, and Hadassah was born. Hadassah receives a 4-star rating or [email protected] Hadassah is committed to strengthen- from Charity Navigator due to its high ing the unity of the Jewish people. percentage of funds that are devoted Jewish Young In Israel, it accomplishes this to the organization’s projects. It has a through progressive healthcare, educa- very high ranking for transparency and Professionals tion, youth institutions and accountability. ooking for a vibrant Jewish life volunteerism. In the United By becoming a with other young adults? Look- States, Hadassah reaches Hadassah Associate, ing for engagement in the Jewish Lcommunity through volunteerism and its goals through Jewish men can participate in and Zionist education pro- Hadassah’s mission of philanthropy? Looking to do some so- grams, Zionist Youth programs and peace and healing. Working alongside cial and professional networking? health awareness programs, as well as Hadassah women or spearheading ini- Created for Jewish 25- to 40-year-
by advocating for issues of importance tiatives on their own, Associates make a olds, the Jewish Young Professionals to women and to the American Jewish significant contribution to the basic val- (JYP) group of the Jewish Federation community. ues of the Jewish people: tikkun olam of Lee and Charlotte Counties features Nominated for a Nobel Prize in (repairing the world) and tzedakah. social activities that foster long-lasting 2005, Hadassah Medical Organization Everyone is welcome to join, so if friendships and professional connec- (HMO) treats approximately one mil- you would like to become a member, tions. Events include volunteer oppor- lion patients a year regardless of religion or learn more about the extraordinary tunities, happy hours, dinners, holiday or nationality. HMO is internationally work of Hadassah, please contact: celebrations and more. recognized for decades of leadership Gayle Dorio, co-President To get connected or for more in stem cell research, and for immuno- 239.530.8992 or information: therapies that marshal the body’s own [email protected] Leni Sack, 239.481.4449 x3 or [email protected] Wills, Estates and Trusts Eric Gurgold, Esq. Florida Bar Board Certifi ed Wills, Trust and Estate Attorney Business and Tax Planning Guy E. Whitesman, Esq. Brian Simon, ChFC®, CLU® Florida Bar Board Certifi ed Tax Attorney Financial Advisor, Park Avenue Securities, LLC
henlaw.com • 239. 344.1100
24 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Special Interest Groups Organizations Hadassah – ing of prime importance. Physicians, JFed Social Club nutritionists, health and fitness profes- he JFed Social Club is a social sionals, and representatives of health Sharon Chapter group to bring Jewish commu- service agencies are featured. nity members together to do a (Charlotte County) The chapter received a Golden Tvariety of activities. Dining out, having riginally part of the Lee County Gavel award from the Sarasota Herald- potluck dinners, visiting a museum, go- Chapter of Hadassah, the Sha- Tribune for its Osteoporosis Educa- ing to a play, and celebrating a Jewish ron Chapter of Port Charlotte tion & Awareness Program, which was holiday together are just some of the ac- Ogot its own charter on January 23, 1979. sponsored by the Florida Department tivities the group has enjoyed over the The primary purpose of the Port Char- of Elder Affairs. past year. lotte chapter is to raise funds for two Programs are entertaining as well This is a great opportunity for new- hospitals in Jerusalem: Mount Scopus as educational, and include card par- comers to the area to meet others and and Ein Kerem. ties, fashion shows, book club meetings, for established members of our com- Hadassah is now and performing “mitzvot” by visiting munity to make new friends. The pri- proud to announce seniors in nursing homes during the mary interest in the group has come the opening of the Jewish holidays. The Jewish Federation from couples and singles, who are newest hospital, the Sara Westman Da- of Lee and Charlotte Counties provides empty nesters and/or retirees. vidson Tower in Jerusalem. Hadassah Hadassah with the “Goody Bags.” For more information: also provides education about health For more information or to join: Leni Sack care issues in the United States. Odette Port, President 239.481.4449 x3 or The Sharon Chapter meets on the 941.505.1409 [email protected] fourth Wednesday of each month. Pro- grams vary with health education be-
Experience Exceptional Senior Living at Aviva! Discover Why Our Residents Flourish Here!
The word “Aviva” in Hebrew means spring. It is a powerful embodiment of the sense of renewal for our residents when they come here to live – a place where seniors can truly Experience the Possibilities of exceptional lifestyles, compassion and support at every turn. Experience the Possibilities at Aviva for yourself! Call 941.225.8369 today for a personal tour.
Sarasota’s Only Independent & Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Rental Community
1951 N. Honore Ave. | Sarasota, FL 34235 Assisted Living Facility #8951 941.225.8369 | AvivaSeniorLife.org Skilled Nursing Facility #130471046
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 25 Organizations Special Interest Groups Generations of the Shoah – SWFL Shalom Life enerations of the Shoah of connection of members of the Second Southwest Florida (GenShoah) Generation to one another, and support Center was formed in 2009 through an of the Holocaust Museum & Education halom Life Center is a nonde- initiativeG by the Holocaust Museum & Center of Southwest Florida.” nominational Jewish spiritual Education Center of Southwest Florida. GenShoah presents programs from community founded to meet the Schanging needs of Southwest Florida. This group is not only for children October to April at the Holocaust Mu- of Holocaust survivors, but for all those seum and other announced venues. The Center provides a warm, welcom- who share its fourfold mission of: “Pro- Programs include films, local and na- ing and inspiring environment for all motion of Holocaust education and tionally-known speakers, and book regardless of age, background and level human rights, preservation of the his- discussions. The public is welcome to of observance. Through acts of loving tory and memories of the Holocaust, attend these presentations. kindness, music and prayer, the Center Any visitors to our community provides a nonjudgmental spiritually who are Holocaust survivors, children uplifting atmosphere. or grandchildren of survivors, or who Offered are Torah study, choir, a share GenShoah’s mission are encour- Yiddish Culture Club, Women’s Circle, aged to attend programs. Men’s Club, BBYO, and individual- GenShoah sends out a monthly ized Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparation for enewsletter announcing programs and typical and neurodiverse teens. In ad- related local events. To receive the dition, there are many special events enewsletter or for more information: and concerts throughout the season Ida Margolis like Shabbat Rock Café, Cocktails and Kvelling, and the annual Bark Mitz- Ida Margolis, GenShoah Chair, [email protected] or and Steve Brazina, Program Director 239.963.9347 vah, which are open to the entire community. Spiritual Leader Lawrence Dermer is formerly of the clergy team of one of Center for Judaic, Holocaust, the largest synagogues in the country, and Genocide Studies Temple Beth El of Boca Raton. Along with his wife, Robin, they are inspir- Dedicated to educating all sectors of society about ing and transformational leaders whose Jewish civilization, the Holocaust, and genocide through: vision, enthusiasm and spirituality help people to actualize their highest • scholarship potential. • outreach The Center’s message is traditional • inquiry and the worship is contemporary. Join • sharing knowledge the Shalom Life Center Band every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. for a joy- • preserving the record ful, musical and meaningful Shabbat • helping teachers worship experience in the beautiful • encouraging students sanctuary. The Shalom Life Center is located at 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. To learn more: 239.218.3433 [email protected] www.shalomlifecenter.org Visit www.fgcu.edu/hc/ stay connected at Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director www.JewishFederationLCC.org
26 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Special Interest Groups Organizations Jewish Historical Society of SWFL he Jewish Historical Society of in this area. It has created The Virtual films are repeated throughout the year Southwest Florida was estab- Museum of Southwest Florida Jewish for those who sign up for the Society’s lished in 2010. The Society’s History. Now everyone, everywhere email or mail lists. Tmission is to educate, promote and cel- may explore, learn and contribute their The Jewish Historical Society of ebrate awareness of Jews in Southwest knowledge, research or resources. Visit Southwest Florida is a 501(c)(3) organi- Florida – from their first arrival to their the museum at http://jewishhistory zation dedicated to preservation of the current makeup here. southwestflorida.org. local Jewish History. JHSSWF activities include preser- To celebrate Florida Jewish History Membership is open to all. For vation and protec- Month, in January, JHSSWF presents more information: tion of the Jewish its original “Southwest Florida Jew- [email protected] history of South- ish Pioneers” film series. The films are 239.566.1771 (leave a message for west Florida by personal accounts by eyewitnesses who Marina Berkovich) collecting living helped establish and expand the Jew- www.JHSSWF.org legacies, testimo- ish presence in Southwest Florida. The nies, videos and other items of rele- vance to early Southwest Florida Jews. The Society seeks out, collects and preserves written, spoken and pho- tographic records for the purpose of creating archives and keeping histori- cal accuracy of the Jewish presence The Virtual Museum of Southwest Florida Jewish History collage
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 27 Organizations Special Interest Groups HAZAK 55+ Humanistic first Friday of every month for Shab- bat dinner and discussions, as well as emple Judea’s HAZAK 55+ gatherings to observe Rosh Hashanah, Chapter is for singles or cou- Jewish Havurah commemorate Yom Kippur, celebrate ples of at least 55 years of age. umanistic Judaism is a voice Chanukah and enjoy a wonderful Hu- TThe organization is affiliated with the for Jews who value their Jew- manistic Jewish community Seder. United Synagogue of Conservative Ju- ish identity and who seek an Halternative to conventional Judaism. Several cultural events take place each daism. Temple Judea’s HAZAK chap- season as well. ter was formed seven years ago and is The movement founded by Rabbi Sher- For more information: a Chartered member. Its purpose is to win Wine in 1963 has grown to be con- Dena Sklaroff, 239.591.0101 allow members to meet and socialize sidered a fifth branch of Judaism. www.hjhswfl.org with each other while enjoying enter- A basic tenet of Humanistic Juda- taining, educational and religious pro- ism is that our power resides within Jewish War grams. And, of course, having lunch each of us. Whether a higher power ex- or dinner together as a group is always ists is mostly irrelevant because no mat- Veterans Post 400 ter what we say we believe, it’s what we enjoyable. ewish War Veterans “Victor Paul do that counts. (Humanism is compat- Two examples of programs planned Tuchman” Post 400 (JWV) is the ible with atheism, agnosticism, ignosti- include HAZAK Shabbat on Saturday, local post of the oldest active veter- cism, deism and naturalism.) January 14, when Amy Snyder will be Jans organization in America, founded Humanistic Jews affirm their iden- the guest speaker. Amy is the Executive in 1896. Active membership may be tity as members of the Jewish people Director of the Holocaust Museum & granted to “any person of the Jewish drawing strength from Jewish history Education Center of Southwest Flor- faith of good character” who is a U.S. and culture. They see Jewish history as ida. HAZAK will sponsor the Kiddush citizen and was an active duty mem- testimony to the continuing struggle lunch. ber of the U.S. military (including the for human dignity and, like the history On Sunday, February 5, local artists National Guard and Reserves) in or of other peoples, as a product of human Carolyn Gora and Herb Sklar will give during any war, campaign or conflict decisions and actions. a PowerPoint presentation and speak with honorable military discharge. They demonstrate connection to about their recent trip to Israel. “Paul Victor Tuchman” Post 400 Jewish culture and history through In addition to other programs, a supports our Jewish troops serving in Humanistic celebrations of Jewish cus- trip to the Holocaust Museum in the the battle zones with gift packages con- toms and holidays, creating Jewish ritu- spring is also being planned. taining appreciated items from home. als, services and celebrations in ways Information about HAZAK events The Post also supports the Fort Myers that help them express their Humanis- appears monthly in the L’CHAYIM VA along with the many homeless and tic values. They seek to foster a positive newspaper and Temple Judea’s Scroll. disadvantaged veterans in the area. Jewish identity that is committed to in- Annual dues are a modest $5 per Members of the Post are veterans tellectual integrity and ethical behavior. person. New members are always wel- from WWII through the present, in- The Humanistic Jewish Havurah come. If you are new to Fort Myers, cluding members on active duty pres- of Southwest Florida, formed in late please give the group a try. If you are ently serving in Afghanistan and Iraq. spring 2008, soon affiliated with the not new to the area, come and meet Breakfast meetings, which are Society for Humanistic Judaism (www. new friends. held at 9:30 a.m. on the last Sunday of shj.org), the umbrella organization for For more information: each month (with a few exceptions) at the nearly 30 other Humanistic Jewish George or Joyce Rosinger the Jewish Federation offices, include communities throughout North Amer- 239.437.1566 bagels/lox/cream cheese, coffee, active ica. Members receive the benefits and Temple Judea office discussions and engaging speakers. All publications of SHJ along with having 239.433.0201 veterans are welcome. the opportunity to express their Jewish For more information: identity with like-minded people here PLEASE SUPPORT Harvey Charter, Post Commander in Southwest Florida. 239.561.6535 OUR ADVERTISERS Members meet one Sunday af- Bob Ruberto, Senior ternoon each month in the David G. THEY HELP MAKE CONNECTIONS Vice Commander, 239.482.2552 Willens Community Room of the Jew- Berny Aronson, Quartermaster & L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE. ish Federation of Collier County, the 239.225.0178
28 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Israel Connection Organizations American Technion Society Consulate General Technion-Israel Institute of Technology of Israel for FL & PR he Technion-Israel Institute of donors provide critical support for the he Consulate General of Israel, Technology is a major source of Technion – more than $2 billion since one of nine in the U.S., officially the innovations and brainpower represents the State of Israel in Tthat drives the Israeli economy, and Tall aspects of Israel’s relations with the a key to Israel’s renown as the world’s government and the people of Florida “Start-Up Nation.” Its three Nobel Prize and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. winners exemplify academic excellence. The Consulate General is the Technion people, ideas and inven- bridge between Israel and the region tions make immeasurable contribu- its inception in 1940. Based in New in multiple realms ranging from aca- tions to the world including life-saving York City, the ATS and its network of demia, Christian, cultural, economic, medicine, sustainable energy, com- chapters across the U.S. provide funds Hispanic, Jewish, media and the politi- puter science, water conservation and for scholarships, fellowships, faculty re- cal arenas and communities. The aim is nanotechnology. cruitment and chairs, research, build- to strengthen the bonds between us. The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Tech- ings, laboratories, classrooms and The Consular Department serves nion-Cornell Institute is a vital com- dormitories and more. foreign and Israeli citizens with various ponent of Cornell Tech, and a model For more information: documentation procedures including for graduate applied science educations Ariane Aronhime issuing visas and passports. that is expected to transform New York Regional Director For more information: City’s economy. 410.602.0275 or [email protected] 305.925.9400 or American Technion Society (ATS) www.consulateisrael.com IT’S A WONDERFUL SENIOR LIFE! Where Friendships are Celebrated ll-in lu i e i ted rande Club ou e it SCHEDULE YOUR i ing e ory Care re ort- tyle a enitie it no are le el TOUR AND ealt y gour et eal n- ite edi al ire tor FREE LUNCH and - our nur ing Full alendar of e ent AND SEE WHAT A DIFFERENCE OUR LIFESTYLE MAKES! Co re en i e Con ierge er i e and ellne rogra ee ly ou e ee ing 239.989.0444 www.DiscoveryVillages.com
LOCK IN 239.989.0444 YOUR RENT Foru l d , Fort yer , F TODAY! u er i ed nde endent i ing i ted i ing e ory Care
Prices, plans, programs and specifications subject to change or withdrawal without notice. Void where prohibited by law. Assisted Living Facility License #12420. ©2017 Discovery Senior Living. Managed and operated by
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 29 Organizations Israel Connection Zionist Organization of America ounded in 1897, the Zionist Or- college campuses. mentary Magazine and syndicated ganization of America (ZOA) The local chapter is proactively in- column, View From America is the world’s oldest pro-Israel volved with all issues concerning Israel ¡¡ Yoram Ettinger: Former Israeli Forganization. It was instrumental in and the worldwide Jewish community. Ambassador and Publisher of the the Jewish state becoming a reality by Meetings are held monthly at support- Ettinger Report mobilizing the support of the U.S. gov- The local chapter maintains a ernment, Congress and the Ameri- speakers guild available to speak to can public for the creation of Israel. community organizations about Israel Under the leadership of such illustri- advocacy issues. ZOA is an ecumeni- ous past presidents as Supreme Court cal organization open to the public and Justice Louis Brandeis and Rabbi Dr. seeks new membership from all who Abba Hillel Silver, ZOA has been on the are interested in supporting the State of front lines of Jewish activism. Israel. Today, with a national member- ing synagogues in Naples, and feature For more information, to be added ship of over 30,000, and chapters noted speakers. To name just a few who to the local mailing list or to arrange to throughout the United States, ZOA have appeared over the years: have a ZOA presentation for your orga- works to strengthen U.S.-Israeli rela- ¡¡ Bret Stephens: Pulitzer Prize nization, contact: tions through educational activities; by winner and Wall Street Journal Jerrold L. Sobel, working Capitol Hill; and by combat- columnist Chapter President ing anti-Israel bias in the media and on ¡¡ Jonathan Tobin: editor of Com- [email protected]
WHAT IS YOUR SHAPE THE JEWISH FUTUREFUTURE The Jewish Federation of LEGACY? Sarasota-ManateeLee and Charlotte worksCounties to instillworks into ourinstill community in our community a strong sensea strong of senseJewish of identityJewish identityand a A WORLD FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS deepand aconnection deep connection to our toshared our Creating a legacy is rewarding not only Jewishshared Jewishheritage, heritage, to Israel to and Israel to to the giver, but to our community. And Jewsand to around Jews around the world. the world. You Youcan perhaps most important is the enduring ensurecan ensure that thatJewish Jewish traditions traditions and nature of planned giving -- use the fund valuesand values are passedare passed on to on the to next the to honor or remember a loved one, generations.next generations. perpetuating your family name long beyond your lifetime. USE A TRUSTED PARTNER For decades, hundreds of donors DECIDE HOW YOUR GIFT IS USED and their financial advisors have Provide unrestricted funds to help meet entrusted The Jewish Federation community needs now and in the future to be their partner in their or provide permanent resources to thoughtful planning of Jewish aid programs or initiatives that are of philanthropy and management of particular interest to you and your family. charitable assets.
Visit www.JewishFederationLCC.orgVisit www.TheJewishFederation.org or contact or contact Marty Haberer Alan Isaacs at at239.481.4449 941.552.6303 orx7 [email protected] or [email protected]..
30 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Israel Connection Organizations American Friends globe and join MDA’s rescue efforts bolstering Israel’s water supply, help- with their generous support. When you ing develop innovative arid-agriculture of Magen David give to MDA, it’s as if you’re sitting in techniques, and educating both young the ambulance next to the paramedics and old about the founding and impor- Adom sharing in the mitzvah of saving lives. tance of Israel and Zionism. agen David Adom is Israel’s For more information: JNF is a registered 501(c)(3) or- ambulance, blood-services Tammy Karu, AFMDA ganization and United Nations NGO, and disaster-relief organi- Southeast Region Director which continuously earns top ratings zation,M serving as emergency medical 800.626.0046 or from charity overseers. first-responders for the state’s more [email protected] The Lee-Charlotte area is served by than 8.5 million people. MDA is the www.afmda.org the Northern Florida Regional office. only organization mandated by the For more information: Jewish National Uri Smajovits Northern Florida Director Fund [email protected] ewish National Fund (JNF) be- 727.536.5263 Israeli government to serve in this role, gan in 1901 as a dream and vision Marcy Friedland but it’s not a government agency, so it to reestablish a homeland in Israel Western Florida Senior Campaign relies on people like you for funding. forJ Jewish people everywhere. Jews the Executive Every Israeli knows someone world over collected coins in iconic [email protected] whose life has been changed by MDA, JNF Blue Boxes, purchasing land and 941.217.7400 whether as a volunteer or a patient. The planting trees until, ultimately, their www.jnf.org dream of a Jewish homeland was a re- ality. Today, JNF continues to give all generations a unique voice in building DID WE MISS YOU? and ensuring the prosperity of the land If you are a non-profit Jewish of Israel through their generosity and agency in South Florida and we partnership with the people of Israel. JNF embodies both heart and ac- missed you, and you would like tion; its work is varied in scope but to be listed in the next edition of singular in benefit. It strives to bring Connections, please call or write: people of Israel count on MDA EMTs an enhanced quality of life to all of and paramedics to rush to the scene Israel’s residents, and translate these (239) 249-0699 of every emergency. In Israel, that can advancements to the world beyond. [email protected] be anything from a terror attack to a JNF is greening the desert with millions heart attack. But they also count on the of trees, building thousands of parks, Display ads are Americans who feel the urgency of Is- creating new communities and cities raeli ambulance sirens from across the for generations of Israelis to call home, also available.
Taxes: Individual (including any State), RICK SNYDERMAN Corporate, Partnership, Trusts & Estates Licensed Pedorthist ~ ~ ~ 1900 Trailwinds Dr. QuickBooks, IRS Representation, Fort Myers, FL 33907 Business Consulting Services and Bookkeeping Ph: (239) 939-2239 Fax: (239) 939-7792 Stacy Hersha, CPA FIT • SERVICE • QUALITY Call for appointment FORT MYERS We Specialize In All Widths We Will Ship Anywhere 239-200-4745
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 31 Organizations Advocacy Groups Media Monitors ucated thousands of people through icy Conference in Washington, D.C., programming in high schools, col- (www.aipac.org/pc) will be held March Roundtable lege campuses and community events. 26-28. Join over 13,000 pro-Israel edia Monitors Roundtable is SWU/Southeast offers fellowship pro- friends from all 50 states as they de- a non-partisan group dedi- grams on college campuses that work scend on our nation’s capital to hear cated to promoting accurate to develop pro-Israel leaders; its high from leading policy-makers and elected andM balanced coverage of Israel and the school programs empower teens to officials. Middle East. Additionally, the group stand up for Israel now and in the future. For more information: monitors and exposes instances of anti- StandWithUS is proud of its part- Elana Rickel, AIPAC’s North & Semitism in the mainstream media. It nerships that help reach all these Central Florida Director accomplishes this task by monitoring audiences and it looks forward to con- 954.382.6110 and analyzing news reports and edito- tinuing to collaborate on events rele- or [email protected] rial content. Through analysis, research vant to Israel. www.aipac.org and fact-checking, the group is able to For more information: counter inaccurate and distorted media Sara Gold Rafel, Director, Anti-Defamation accounts of events. StandWithUs/Southeast This local group is proactive about [email protected] League recognizing and responding to the fre- or 561.961.0752 he Anti-Defamation League quently inaccurate and skewed char- www.standwithus.com (ADL) is on the frontline of acterizations of Israel and of events in www.facebook.com/ fighting anti-Semitism, racism standwithussoutheast Tand all forms of hatred in America and the Middle East which may further fuel anti-Israel and anti-Jewish prejudice. abroad. Founded in 1913, ADL is one The group meets the last Monday of American Israel of the nation’s leading civil rights agen- each month at 11:00 a.m. in the Temple Public Affairs cies, with a mission ‘to stop the defa- Beth El library. mation of the Jewish people and secure For more information: Committee justice and fair treatment to all.’ Laurie Morris orn out of the ashes of the Holo- As the 9-1-1 for the Jewish com- [email protected] caust when the Jewish commu- munity in Florida, ADL serves as the Linda Sweet nity had no political strength, primary resource for victims of anti- [email protected] Bthe American Israel Public Affairs Semitism. ADL also fields discrimina- Committee empowers pro-Israel activ- tion complaints of all kinds. StandWithUs ists to advocate on behalf of a strong The ADL Florida office delivers tandWithUs (SWU) is a 15-year- U.S.-Israel relationship. anti-bias education programs to edu- old, international, non-profit Israel As America’s leading pro-Israel cators and students; trains law enforce- education organization. It believes lobby, AIPAC works with Democrats, ment about hate crimes; safeguards Sthat education is the road to peace. civil rights; confronts anti-Semitism in Republicans and Independents on Through fellowships, conferences, ma- Capitol Hill and in all 435 congressio- schools and on college campuses; pro- terials, social media, educational films nal districts. With a staff of just 11 pro- vides security seminars to religious in- and missions to Israel, StandWithUs fessional lobbyists, AIPAC’s strength stitutions; and advocates for Israel. supports people around the world who comes from its 100,000 members na- A leader in the development of want to educate their campuses and tionwide who are politically active and anti-bias curricula, materials, pro- communities about Israel. develop relationships with their mem- grams and services, ADL builds bridges Based in Los Angeles, SWU has bers of Congress and educate them of communication, understanding and chapters throughout the United States about the importance of U.S.-Israel respect among diverse groups. It carries including the Southeast, in Israel, Can- ties. out its mission through a network of of- ada, the U.K. and Australia. AIPAC believes it is in America’s fices in the U.S. and abroad, including StandWithUs/Southeast, based in best interests to maintain a strong al- the Florida regional office. Boca Raton, opened three years ago and liance with Israel, and to exercise our For more information: in a short time has markedly increased constitutional right to advocate on be- 561.988.2900, [email protected], or awareness of the importance of Israel half of that alliance. http://florida.adl.org education and advocacy. SWU has ed- The 2017 AIPAC Annual Pol-
32 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Religious Life
Temple Beth El emple Beth El, Lee County’s first The congregation and largest Jewish congrega- is open and welcoming tion, was founded over 62 years to all who seek to ex- Tago by a small group of people who plore the principles and dreamed of an organized Jewish com- beliefs of Reform Juda- munity. In October 1954, land was pur- ism. Rabbi Nicole Luna chased for $1,200 and the first Jewish recognizes the power of Community Center building was built. a welcoming rabbi and The congregation quickly outgrew congregation, and works its first sanctuary, and fundraising ef- to build a sacred com- Rabbi Nicole Luna leads Temple Beth El’s Tot Shabbat forts began for the construction of a munity. Among a myriad of educa- larger building. In 1964, land in Cape tional opportunities, Rabbi Luna leads TEMPLE BETH EL OF FORT MYERS Coral was donated and a new temple Saturday Torah Study at 9:00 a.m., a 16225 Winkler Road was built. Life and Liturgy Class on Wednesdays Fort Myers, FL 33908 In 1991, land was donated to build at 1:30 p.m., and a monthly Lunch and • Telephone: (239) 433-0018 a synagogue on Winkler Road in South Learn. • Fax: (239) 433-3235 Fort Myers. Designed by architect and Temple Beth El is especially proud • Email: temple.info@ temple member Bruce Gora, the new of its Religious School, under the lead- templebethel.com building was completed in 1994 and ership of Director Dale Cohen, and the • Website: its members continue to worship there Learning Tree Preschool, under the di- www.templebethel.com today. rection of Jesyca Virnig. The Learning • Rabbi Nicole Luna The continuing preeminence of Tree just received its second “5 Star” • Movement/Affiliation: Reform Temple Beth El is attributed to its out- rating, the first in Southwest Florida to • Services: Shabbat Eve 7:30 p.m.; standing rabbinic and professional receive this prestigious designation. Shabbat Torah Study 9:00 a.m. leadership, its dynamic lay leaders, its Many activities are offered year- • Organizations: Sisterhood, creative and dedicated membership, round by the Men’s Club, Sister- Men’s Club, Garden of Memories and its wide range of activities. hood, Machers and Mavens Bookclub, Cemetery, Junior Youth Group, Schmoozers Social Group, BEFTY Senior Youth Group, Mah Jongg, current Social Action Committee, events class, adult choir Sharing and Caring, Schmoozers, and much more. Machers and Mavens Book Club The Temple Beth El • TBE Gift Gallery Gift Gallery displays the • Special Programs/Features: area’s largest and fin- Adult Education (including Life est selection of Judaica and Liturgy, Lunch and Learn, items and gifts from Jewish current Events) Mah Israel and around the Jongg Tournaments, Family world. Shabbat Potluck Dinners, Temple Beth El wel- TBE Cruise, Trips to Israel, comes all to attend its Religious and Hebrew School, services and participate Learning Tree Preschool Temple Beth El staff in its many activities.
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 33 Religious Life Temple Judea emple Judea is a progressive Rabbi Sack and his wife, yet traditional egalitarian con- Leni, came to Fort Myers gregation affiliated with United from Tampa, where he led TSynagogue of Conservative Judaism. a congregation for eighteen The congregation encourages and sup- years. Leni Sack is the pro- ports all people who seek to explore gram director for the Jewish and express Jewish commitment. Federation of Lee and Char- Temple Judea opens doors to Jew- lotte Counties. ish learning and growth, prayer and The religious school observance, and acts of social respon- provides excellent Hebrew sibility. It offers services and programs and Judaic education for on both Friday evenings and Shab- children in pre-K through bat mornings, as well as a minyan on 10th grade. Children de- Monday mornings. Services at Temple velop a strong Jewish iden- Karina Lewin and Rabbi Marc Sack Judea, which are largely lay-led, are in tity in a positive and fun atmosphere. Temple Judea Preschool is an ac- Hebrew with English readings. A Com- The school program includes both credited preschool and is considered classroom learning and expe- one of the top programs in the area for riential activities. Most impor- children ages 18-months to pre-K. tantly, students master the skills All people are welcome to par- of leading Shabbat services and ticipate in and join the Temple Judea reading Torah so they can par- community. ticipate fully in synagogue life. Temple Judea also offers TEMPLE JUDEA many opportunities for adult 14486 A&W Bulb Road Jewish learning. Rabbi Sack Fort Myers, FL 33908 leads a monthly lunch-and- • Telephone: (239) 433-0201 learn Torah study on the first • Fax: (239) 433-3371 Thursday of the month, as well • Website: www.tjswfl.org Alexandra Polk as an Introduction to Judaism • Rabbi Marc Sack panion to Prayer provides a full trans- and Talmud study. • President: Jennifer Manekin literation of the Shabbat services and a Temple Judea is a social congrega- • Movement/Affiliation: guide to Jewish ritual life. Attendees at tion. Its Hazak chapter offers relaxed Conservative/United Synagogue Shabbat and holiday morning services activities for people ages 55+. Chaverot of Conservative Judaism enjoy a delicious Kiddush luncheon is the social and service organiza- • Services: 6:15 p.m. Friday prepared by members. tion for women. Kadima and USY are and 9:30 a.m. Saturday; Temple Judea is connected to and groups for students in grades 6-12. minyan: 9:00 a.m. Monday involved in the greater community. It and Thursday serves dinners twice monthly at Sally’s • Gift shop benefitting Yad Café, the Salvation Army soup kitchen. LaKashish, Jerusalem It has also hosted an interfaith lun- • Special Programs/Features: cheon, Bible study, and an interfaith Family Holiday events, Thanksgiving service. The temple regu- Religious School, Preschool, larly has leaders from the greater com- Mommy and Me, Adult munity speak at Friday night dinners. Education, Women’s Rosh Rabbi Marc Sack is a graduate of Chodesh Group, Junior the Jewish Theological Seminary and Congregation, Once a month Columbia University. Rabbi Sack also Shabbat Potluck Dinner, has training in community organizing Meditation Circle, Hazak 55+ with the Industrial Areas Foundation. Jan and Jed Klein
34 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Temple Beth Shalom Religious Life ince its founding in 1973, Temple cial Shabbat service for the children on congregation and it’s because the con- Beth Shalom has been home to the first Friday of each month, bringing gregants participate in the many social, Reform Judaism in Cape Coral, the youth onto the bimah and having cultural and educational opportunities SPine Island, North Fort Myers and them participate in the service. offered. Many dedicated members are the greater Fort Myers area. All are On the other Friday nights there is involved in planning and leading these welcome in the tradition of liberal, a Kabbalat Shabbat service filled with activities. A food and supplies drive is charitable open arms song and joy, and a min- held for local charities like schools and that bring many differ- gling of old, new and food banks. There are special events ent ages, backgrounds, prospective members at including bowling, mah jongg, bingo mixed marriages and the Oneg Shabbat. No and dance parties. Other events include lifestyles together in one goes away unwel- the annual Samuel Belkin Golf Tour- spiritual harmony. The comed, unattended or nament, which benefits a local charity, temple building houses unfed from the dessert monthly Rosh Chodesh meetings, a the sanctuary, social tables. Birthdays and latke party during Hanukkah, Sukkot hall with full kitchen, special occasions are dinner under the stars, museum vis- two classrooms and also celebrated as the its, fishing trips and sporting events at- meeting rooms. Recent Sisterhood prepares a tended together. renovations have kept beautiful spread. All the There is truly something for every- the building up to date, major holidays are cel- one who walks in the door. The temple mostly through the gen- Rabbi Devora Buchen ebrated with the temple motto is “Come as a guest, leave as a erous input of temple volunteers. choir – a group of members who lead friend, return as family.” Rabbi Devora Buchen has been the congregation in singing the tradi- TEMPLE BETH SHALOM leading the congregation for more than tional songs. 702 SE 24th Avenue twelve years. She tirelessly directs the Temple Beth Shalom has a forty- Cape Coral, FL 33990 choir, Saturday morning Torah Study, year tradition of truly servicing the • Telephone: (239) 772-4555 and programs such as • Email: adult and youth B’nai [email protected] Mitzvah classes, as well • Website: as a Brown Bag Lunch www.templebethshalomcc.org discussion group ev- • Rabbi Devora Buchen ery other Wednesday. • Movement/Affiliation: Reform Rabbi Buchen has been • Services: Shabbat and Holidays; a personal inspiration 7:30 p.m. every Friday; to all the B’nai Mitz- Family Shabbat Service on the vah children in keep- first Friday of the month ing them in the fold of ALL ARE WELCOME Jewish life and tradi- • Organizations: Sisterhood, tions. She leads a spe- Cleaning the silver for the High Holy Days Brotherhood • Special Programs/Features: Weekly Friday evening kabbalat Shabbat services with oneg, Shabbat dinners, Holiday programs, Religious School (pre-K to grade 6), B’nai Mitzvah training, Adult Jewish Education and Conversion Classes, Saturday morning Torah Study with the Rabbi, Rosh Chodesh meetings for women, Bowling League, Golf Tournaments
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 35 Religious Life The Community Free Synagogue ow in its 12th year, the Com- ticipate, since everyone’s voice matters basic and advanced levels munity Free Synagogue’s name and is given equal weight. Tremendous ¡¡free weekly effective Youth Edu- was chosen to describe its phi- energy and creativity are generated by cation culminating in Bar and Bat Nlosophy and function. celebrations The Community Free Synagogue ¡¡a full range of festival observances sets right the idea of “belonging” – you throughout the year including don’t “belong” to the synagogue and it Seder suppers does not sell memberships. The syna- ¡¡monthly “Brown Bag” Movie Nights gogue spiritually belongs to all those ¡¡biennial Israel Pilgrimages who regard it as an essential part of ¡¡ample parking and transportation their Jewish lives. As a vital, thriving to those in need community resource, it serves both the While there still remains a place for needs of those who enjoy the closeness “brick and mortar” synagogues and the and warmth that comes with regular congregations that occupy them, the participation, and also of those who dynamic changes in America’s 21st cen- turn to it in times of special need. This Rabbi Bruce Diamond tury Jewish population require creative is what the “Community” means in its interested people coming together to new adaptations in its progressive com- name. achieve their goals without having to munal religious life. The Community The “Free” in the Community Free get permission from committees and Free Synagogue is one exciting expres- Synagogue has two meanings: “officers in charge.” sion of this. The first is that it never charges for CFS freely provides: Feel free to think of The Commu- anything nor does it ever solicit funds. ¡¡weekly Sabbath Eve dinners and nity Free Synagogue as yours, since it is One of CFS’ founding principles is that worship meant for you! ¡ people are to be treated and respected ¡Sabbath morning Torah Study THE COMMUNITY FREE as adults who can be relied upon to do breakfasts SYNAGOGUE ¡ the right thing when given the chance. ¡quality Adult Education courses on Meets at the Southwest Florida This principle has served Masonic Center, 10868 Metro the synagogue well, Parkway, South Fort Myers, FL since it has always com- Mailing Address: P.O. Box 07144 fortably supported itself Fort Myers, FL 33919 through broad-based • Telephone: (239) 274- SHUL (7485) volunteerism and the • Email: [email protected] generosity of those who • Website: regard the Community www.fortmyerssynagogue.com Free Synagogue as their • Rabbi Bruce Diamond, D.D. spiritual home. • Music Director: The second mean- Simchat Torah celebration Dianne Coffman ing of “Free” is the syn- • Movement/Affiliation: agogue’s “politics-free” Progressive environment. While its • Shabbat Activities: Community deeply committed re- Sabbath Eve Dinner & Services ligious leader, Rabbi 6:30 p.m.; Sabbath Morning Bruce Diamond, sets the Torah Study Breakfast 9:30 a.m. religious course and high • Special Programs/Features: standards of the syna- Open-Door High Holiday gogue, the day-to-day Worship and Free Community life of the congregation Seders, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Adult reflects a broad consen- Education, Israel trips sus of those who par- Celebrating Sukkot at the Community Free Synagogue sukkah
36 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Religious Life Bat Yam - Temple of the Islands n January of 1991, Bat Yam became tor of the Church. Bat Yam Cantorial versary with a the first and only Jewish congre- Soloist Douglas Renfroe and Reverend splendid gala gation on Sanibel Island to serve Danner combine their musical talents event in Janu- Iresidents and guests of Sanibel, Cap- to co-teach classes and present an an- ary 2016. tiva, Fort Myers and surrounding com- nual concert. It expects munities. Seventy-five people attended The ark holds two Torahs. Becky to have many the first meeting of the new Reform and Beno Kon donated one Torah. Ann more notewor- Jewish congregation. The group devel- and Len Arnoff, in memory of their thy milestones. oped a mission statement that remains daughter, made the arrangements for a Rabbi Myra Soifer the same today. Bat Yam is to provide Holocaust Torah. The Torah is on per- BAT YAM - a place of worship manent loan from the TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS in the Reform tradi- Westminster Holocaust Meets at Sanibel Congregational tion and create an ex- Museum in London. It Church, 2050 Periwinkle Way tended Jewish family. was flown to Florida and Sanibel Island, FL The Sanibel Con- carefully transported to Mailing Address: P.O. Box 84, gregational United Sanibel. Each Torah has Sanibel, FL 33957 Church of Christ a hand-embroidered dis- • Email: agreed to host the tinctive cover. [email protected] new Jewish congre- In January 2014, Website: www.batyam.org gation and permitted Rabbi Myra Soifer joined • Rabbi Myra Soifer Bat Yam to build an the Bat Yam family. Or- • Cantorial Soloist: ark in Fellowship Hall dained in 1978 by He- Douglas Renfroe so that Shabbat ser- brew Union College/ • President: Alan Lessack vices could be held. Jewish Institute of Reli- • Movement/Affiliation: Reform/ This close relation- gion in Cincinnati, she Union for Reform Judaism ship with the Church was one of the first ten • Services: Friday at 7:30 p.m. continues to this day. The temple’s hand-embroidered women rabbis. Prior to Torah cover (Nov-Apr); Friday at 7:00 p.m. There is an annual Bat Yam, Rabbi Soifer re- (May-Oct); pulpit exchange and classes are co- tired as Rabbi at Temple Sinai in Reno, • Saturday classes: 9:00 - 11:30 taught by Rabbi Myra Soifer and the Nevada, after twenty-five years. a.m. (Nov-Apr) Reverend Dr. John Danner, Senior Pas- Bat Yam celebrated its 25th anni- Stay in touch throughout the month. Sign up for the Federation’s e-blasts. Get the latest information on upcoming community events and cultural activities, breaking news items, updates from Israel and lots more. Send an email to [email protected].
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 37 Religious Life Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida s the story goes, when Rabbi family-friendly setting, each visitor weekly Kabbalah classes, Torah por- Yitzchok and Nechamie Min- can immediately begin to feel at home tion of the week, and “What’s Cooking kowicz arrived in Fort Myers – hence the phrase “Chabad House,” a at Chabad?” – culturally diverse, Jewish A22 years ago, a few local Jews asked special place that taps into the energy holiday-related hands-on cooking (and them if they “got off on the wrong exit.” of Chabad’s philosophy, that of the tasting) for ladies. But you’d never ask that today, once you uniqueness of every individual on their All of these classes and more are see their brand new 11,000 sq. ft. build- personal, spiritual mission in the world. available for all segments of the Jewish ing that houses the headquarters of Alongside the new, main building, community, regardless of personal level Chabad of Southwest Florida, Chabad which houses the synagogue, social hall of observance and educational back- of Fort Myers, Congregation Shmuel and elementary school, there is a pre- ground. At Chabad of Southwest Flor- Synagogue, Maimonides Hebrew Day school facility, with its own outdoor ida, Jews from all walks of life can come School, and a myriad of other Jew- play area. Additionally, the grounds in- together, learn and celebrate as one! ish programming, spanning the entire clude Mikveh Bashka. Use of a mikveh is a cornerstone of Jewish family life. CHABAD LUBAVITCH OF The sanctification of the union of hus- SOUTHWEST FLORIDA band and wife, which holds the poten- 5620 Winkler Road tial of bringing new lives into the world, Ft. Myers, FL 33919 adds immeasurably to the sacredness • Telephone: (239) 433-7708 of marriage. New brides and married • Fax: (239) 481-9109 women of all ages can avail themselves • Email: [email protected] of this special experience. Personal in- • Website: www.chabadswf.org struction on the laws of family purity • Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz are available, which include a private • Director Nechamie Minkowicz tour of this elegant facility. • Movement/Affiliation: Chabad The center offers extensive edu- Lubavitch cational and cultural opportunities • Services: Friday night, Shabbos including: morning and holidays For children and families: Mai- • Special Programs/Features: Rabbi Yitzchok and Nechamie Minkowicz monides Hebrew Day School and Pre- Maimonides Hebrew Day School, calendar year, and tailored to meet the school, The Jewish Resource Center and Congregation Bais Shmuel, needs of Jews of all ages, and all levels of Interactive Play Space, Hebrew School, Mikveh Bashka of Southwest Jewish knowledge and observance. the Grand Chanukah Celebration, and Florida, Grand Chanukah Rabbi Yitzchok and Nechamie’s vi- community Passover seders. Celebration, Kabbalah Class, sion was to create an environment for For adults: JLI, the internation- JLI Jewish Learning Institute everyone to experience Judaism with ally acclaimed Rohr Jewish Learning their heart, mind and soul. In a warm, Institute courses (www.myjli.com), For 2017 candle lighting times for the Lee- Charlotte area, please see page 51.
38 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Religious Life Chabad Jewish Center of Cape Coral habad Jewish Center of Cape and an experienced career woman, Coral is home to hundreds of a teenager and a retired senior can Jews who are living, working each find his or her place – it is a Cor touring in this great city built on ca- home away from home. nals. In the true spirit of the worldwide Chabad Jewish Center offers Chabad Lubavitch movement, the Cen- synagogue services that are both ter is a warm and welcoming refuge, user-friendly and child-friendly. attracting Jews of all backgrounds and Shabbos and holiday services are affiliations since its inception in 2004. easy to follow, lively and intellectually CHABAD JEWISH CENTER Rabbi Yossi and Rivky Labkowski stimulating. Separate children’s services OF CAPE CORAL are young emissaries of the Lubavitcher are engaging and fun for all. The cen- 1716 Cape Coral Pkwy W Rebbe. They arrived in Cape Coral 12 ter is alive and bustling at holiday times Cape Coral , FL 33914 years ago, eager and ready to build a with a variety of Family Holiday Events • Telephone: (239) 963-4770 as well as communal Shabbos dinners. • Email: [email protected] Jewish Education is offered to all • Website: www.chabadcape.com ages and in a variety of formats, from • Rabbi Yossi Labkowski one-on-one Bar/Bas Mitzvah and He- • Movement/Affiliation: brew classes to formal Hebrew School Chabad Lubavitch and First Taste for younger children. • Services: Shabbat at 9:30 a.m.; JLI courses and Torah Learning classes, Daily at 7:00 a.m. both for beginners and those more • Hebrew School: Sunday 10:00 advanced, Women’s classes and study a.m. - 12:30 p.m. groups are all available. • JGirls: Tuesday 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. Winter and Summer camps offer • CTeen: Thursday 7:00 p.m. Rivky and Rabbi Yossi Labkowski both learning and enjoyable activities • Judaica Shop Center for Jewish life, offering edu- for youngsters, while Teen Club and • Mikvah Cape Coral: cational programs, family events and JGirls for girls 10-13 also contribute Contact Rivky at (239) 699-0166 community life to the Jews of the city. positively to the community at large. In Special Programs/Features: Though the Center serves as a addition to building their knowledge Family Holiday Events, Weekly venue for all aspects of Jewish life, its of Jewish culture, history and lifestyle, Shabbat Kiddush Luncheon, most appealing component is its warm, these programs develop Jewish pride Summer & Winter Camp welcoming and non-judgmental at- and a true love of Judaism. Gan Israel, JLI Courses, Adult mosphere. It is a place where educa- Chabad Jewish Center of Cape Education, Jewish Women’s tional, financial, religious and ethnic Coral is not only a Center for Jewish Circle, Bar/Bat Mitzvah Training, differences melt into the background. life, but a vibrant community, a place of Communal Shabbat Dinners, It is a place where Jews of all ages im- friendship and celebration, where each First Taste Program, Chanuka mediately feel comfortable. It is a place Jew is encouraged to attend, partake Shop, Hospital & Home where a successful lawyer and a young and make Judaism his or her own. Visitations, Family Counseling kibbutznik, a middle-aged housewife The Jewish Federation Community Food Pantry sustains many individuals and families. Your generosity is a wonderful act of tzedakah. To make a donation of food or funds, please contact the Federation at 239.481.4449 x6.
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 39 Religious Life Chabad Jewish Center of Charlotte County habad Jewish Center of Char- Shabbat services, held Friday night A Jewish Art calendar is distri- lotte County is a center of Jewish and Shabbat morning, will leave you buted free to the entire Jewish commu- life for Jews of all backgrounds feeling enriched, connected and en- nity of Charlotte County. Cwho want to learn and experience more ergized whether your background in All are welcome to participate at about their roots. Jewish values are Jewish prayer is extensive or limited. any of Chabad’s programs. brought to life in a joyous, warm and Bilingual prayer books are used. Chil- CHABAD JEWISH CENTER non-judgmental atmosphere. dren are welcome. Shabbat morning OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY Rabbi Simon Jacobson and his wife, services are followed by a kiddush and 204 E Mckenzie St. Unit B Sheina, founded Chabad of Charlotte discussion on the weekly Torah portion. Punta Gorda, FL 33950 Throughout the year, Chabad hosts • Telephone: (941) 833-3381 several Community Shabbat Dinners, • Email: info@ which are known for the best kosher ChabadofCharlotteCounty.com food in Charlotte County. • Website: www. A wide variety of spiritual services ChabadofCharlotteCounty.com and educational programs are offered, • Rabbi Simon Jacobson including Adult Education, the Jewish • Movement/Affiliation: Women’s Circle, Camp Gan Israel Day Chabad Lubavitch Camp, and Bar/Bat Mitzvah classes for • Services: Weekly Friday night/ children and adults. Saturday morning services and There are numerous holiday pro- kiddush grams, including High Holiday services, • Special Programs/Features: Sukkot and Simchat Torah festivities, Rabbi Simon and Sheina Jacobson Adult Educational Classes, a community-wide Chanukah celebra- Shabbat Dinners, Holiday County in 2005, inspired by the teach- tion, Purim parties, Passover seder and programs, Bar/Bat Mitzvah ings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Shavuot festivities. program, Gan Israel Summer Menachem M. Schneerson, who taught Chabad also provides hospital visi- Day Camp, Jewish Women’s that every single Jew is dear and impor- tation, counseling, home visits to the Circle, Hospital/Home Visits tant to G-d. elderly, and all life cycle events.
Chabad of Bonita Springs EnjoyEnjoyEnjoy online the the vONLINEONLINEErsions of & Estero version of version of CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS & ESTERO & 24850 Old 41 Road, Suite 20 (Bernwood Centre) Bonita Springs, FL 34135 A Guide to Jewish Living Connectionsin Collier County A FREE PUBLICATION • Telephone: (239) 949-6900 20142015 GUIDE GUIDE TO TO JEWISH LIFE IN LEELEE && CHARLOTTE CHARLOTTE COUNTIES COUNTIES • Email: [email protected] @@@ www.JewishFederationLCC.org www.jewishnaples.org www.jfedsrq.org • Website: www.JewishBonita.com • Rabbi Mendy Greenberg • Movement/Affiliation: Chabad Lubavitch • Services: Shabbat at 10:00 a.m. followed by a kiddush
ARTS & CULTURE • ADULT & CHILDHOOD EDUCATION • FEDERATION PLEASECOMMUNITY SERVICES • EVENTS • LOCALSUPPORT AGENCIES & ORGANIZATIONS OUR ADVERTISERS! RELIGIOUS LIFE • COMMUNITY CALENDAR • AND MUCH MORE! THEY HELP MAKE CONNECTIONS AND THE JEWISH NEWS POSSIBLE.
READ IT ONLINE Published by the Jewishwww.jewishnaples.org Federation 40 CONNECTIONSof Lee and Charlotte Counties2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties www.JewishFederationLCC.org Published by the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties www.JewishFederationLCC.org Temple Shalom of Religious Life Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf Islands emple Shalom has served the ida community. Temple Jewish community and resi- Shalom has been described dents of Charlotte County and as a caring, friendly con- Tsurrounding area for over fifty years. gregation. Reaching out The congregation came together in to as many Jews as pos- 1961 when land was made available sible, services are in Eng- to group of dedicated Jews who knew lish and Hebrew. Provision a synagogue was needed. Temple Sha- is extended to recognize lom adopted its name after receiving and welcome interfaith its charter in 1976 from the Union for marriage. Reform Judaism. Temple Shalom has a Since its beginning as the first “of- strong, vigorous, and active ficial” Jewish presence in Charlotte religious school program which culmi- co-sponsored with the American Red County, Temple Shalom has provided nates in joyous B’nai Mitzvot. Weekly Cross. A Boy Scout troop meets weekly spiritual support, religious guidance, adult classes focus on Judaic topics and in the temple and has done so for over and leadership to the local Jewish com- Hebrew language. The temple has a fifty years. Temple Shalom is a good munity while promoting understanding small but adequate Judaic Library. citizen: it supports the local food bank, with, and participation in, the broader Year round Friday night services raises money and resources for local Charlotte County and Southwest Flor- frequently feature guest soloists. Some charities and causes, and participates services are preceded by in the events and supports the activi- family dinners and every ties of the Jewish Federation, Charlotte service ends with an Oneg. County, and surrounding region. High Holy Days and holidays are celebrated much as you TEMPLE SHALOM OF remember. CHARLOTTE HARBOR Sisterhood and Hadassah & THE GULF ISLANDS meet to provide a wide vari- 23190 Utica Avenue ety of programs. Services and Port Charlotte, FL 33949 programs sometimes feature • Telephone: (941) 625-2116 outside speakers who come • Fax: (941) 625-0842 to share events and percep- • Email: [email protected] tions of the greater world and • Website: community. Temple Shalom www.templeshalomfl.com is an active, vibrant congre- • Rabbi Solomon Agin, D.D. gation: maintaining tradition • Movement/Affiliation: Reform while examining a chang- • Services: Shabbat Eve 7:30 p.m. ing world, preparing for the year round future. • Organizations: Sisterhood, Temple Shalom gener- Brotherhood ates area-wide annual atten- • Judaica Shop tion with its comedy night • Judaic Library program and Art Auction, • Special Programs/Features: Religious School (K-7), Adult Education courses, Guest Stay connected at cantorial soloists, Holiday Celebrations, Community Menorah lighting, Social & www.JewishFederationLCC.org Cultural Events
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 41 Focus on Youth
Preschools Temple Judea Preschool emple Judea Preschool is an Accredited Professional tual and emotional Preschool Learning Environment providing care for development. This children 18 months to 5 years. Temple Judea Pre- helps stimulate cre- Tschool serves families of all faiths and denominations that ative development desire a program which provides varied enriching experi- as well as exploring ences and activities that contribute to and stimulate the de- the world around velopment of the child. them. The preschool’s philosophy is to recognize each child as The school en- a unique individual. Each child is nurtured and cared for courages parental in a loving atmosphere, allowing them to progress accord- involvement in their child’s preschool experience. Parents ing to their rate of development. The school fulfills this goal and teachers gain valuable insights and techniques from each through carefully planned programs developed by a trained, other and, at the same time, share their talents and interests caring staff. to maintain the excellent quality at Temple Judea Preschool. Temple Judea Preschool is the only Conservative Jewish The full- and part-time programs include Language, Early Childhood program in Lee County. A safe environ- Science, Reading Readiness, Math Concepts, Writing Skills, ment is provided that reinforces a child’s natural curiosity Computers, Music, Cooking, PE, Dramatic Play, Yoga, and and allows each child to experience challenges and successes. Arts and Crafts. Children are exposed to a variety of age-appropri- To learn more about these programs, please call ate learning activities to meet each child’s social, intellec- 239.482.1121 or stop by the preschool for a tour. Temple Judea Toddler Time he Toddler Time Program is for children from 12 months to 2 years of age. The program is Toffered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9:00 to 10:15 a.m. The children are placed in the proper class according to their age. This program sends a new age-related book or cd every month! The program is an opportunity to socialize through interactive play. New Visit the Federation website to signup: activities are provided each week. You Sponsored by and your child will have the opportu- Judiwww.jfedsrq.org Roth for the Roth Family Foundation nity to cook, sing, dance, play instru- Kenneth and Gwenda Asher for The Asher Family Foundation ments, participate in art, and have a fun Sponsored by and memorable time. All of the activi- For more information, ties are age appropriate. Arthur & Susan Karp Family Charitable Foundation, Inc For more information, please call A Supportingvisit www.JewishFederationLCC.org.Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee 239.482.1121.
42 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Preschools Focus on Youth The Learning Tree provides: Little Branches ¡¡ Low teacher-student ratios he Learning Tree at Temple Beth istinguished as the first pre- ¡¡ Top teacher qualifications El of Fort Myers offers an excit- school in our four-county area ¡¡ Strong family partnerships ing option for children up to 3 to earn the prestigious “5 star” ¡¡ Spectacular math, literacy Tyears old to become familiar with the designationD for program excellence, and science preschool environment with a trusted The Learning Tree has been a part of ¡¡ Newly renovated playground caregiver by their side. Parents, nannies Temple Beth El for over 20 years. Enrollment for the 2017-18 school and grandparents enjoy the weekly Lit- Children ages 18 year begins on February 1. tle Branches class featuring music, art, months to 5 years at- Interested families are in- stories, cooking activities and more. tend a flexible array vited to schedule a tour to This is a great way to offer your of part-time and full- see these unique qualities child a gentle introduction to the pre- time schedules. An firsthand and learn more school environment. Classes are 45-60 optional hot lunch is about how The Learning minutes each and run in sessions of 4-6 offered daily. After- Tree will welcome and cel- weeks each. school programming includes cooking ebrate their child’s learning journey. For more details, call 239.433.5499 classes, yoga, dance, academic enrich- For more information, visit www. or visit www.learningtreefortmyers.com. ment and introductory sports. learningtreefortmyers.com or call Pre- The Learning Tree is recognized school Director Jesyca Virnig, MAEd at as a community model of quality and 239.433.5499. PARENTS AND CHILDREN ARE INVITED TO A PURIM PJ LIBRARY PROGRAM PURIM PJ LIBRARY PROGRAM
Sunday, March 12 9:30 a.m. noon 9:30 a.m. noon COSTUMES, GAMES, CRAFTS, SONGS AND STORIES TO CELEBRATE PURIM! COSTUMES, GAMES, CRAFTS, SONGS AND STORIES TO CELEBRATE PURIM! This is a free program open to all families in our community! If you are already signed up, you know how great PJ Library is. At LAKES REGIONAL PARK If you are already signed up, you know how great PJ Library is. At LAKES REGIONAL PARK If not, sign up today for your children ages 6 months to 8 years 7330 Gladiolus Dr. If not, sign up today for your children ages 6 months to 8 years 7330 Gladiolus Dr. to receive free monthly books and CDs of Jewish content. Fort Myers, FL 33907 to receive free monthly books and CDs of Jewish content. Fort Myers, FL 33907 Visit www.pjlibrary.org. RSVP to Leni at 239.481.4449 x3 Visit www.pjlibrary.org. RSVP to Leni at 239.481.4449 x3 or [email protected] PJ Library in Lee & Charlotte Counties or [email protected] PJ Library in Lee & Charlotte Counties is generously sponsored by the Roth is generously sponsored by the Roth Family Foundation and the Asher Family Foundation and the Asher Family Foundations Family Foundations
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 43 Focus on Youth Preschools Maimonides Hebrew Day School - Preschool aimonides Hebrew Day language development; and motor skills School (MHDS) is a state- for fine and large muscle coordination. licensed and certified child Young students are introduced to dayM care center. It is the only Jewish music; science and discovery; and the ® The PJ Library VPK (voluntary Pre-kindergarten) and beginnings of reading, writing and e all know the power Early Readiness Center in Southwest mathematics as part of this comprehen- of reading stories with Florida, providing services to families sive program. young children. These of Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties. MHDS has a unique dual curricu- Wnurturing, joyous and beneficial Early Readiness is a scholarship pro- lum which includes all these aspects of early learning experiences build the gram designed to assist families deal- a secular education combined with a emotional and cognitive foundation ing with the financial difficulties of the comprehensive Judaic studies curricu- for each child. The PJ Library (PJ economy and the need for affordable lum, including basic instruction in the as in pajamas) provides your fam- child care. Hebrew language. The Judaic program ily with a FREE treasury of Jewish The school serves preschool chil- is tailored to accommodate each fam- books and music. dren from 2 months old in the new in- ily’s level of Jewish observance, and Each child, 6 months to 8 years fant class, to pre-K age 5. Free VPK for includes instruction and hands-on old, enrolled in The PJ Library re- 4-year-olds is offered. learning about the Jewish Sabbath and ceives a monthly gift of a high-qual- “Creative Curriculum for Tod- holidays, good character traits, Torah ity, age-appropriate Jewish book or dlers” and VPK programming provide studies on the weekly portion, all in an CD as well as a reading guide to en- an exciting developmental environ- age- and grade-appropriate format. hance your family’s experience. All ment. Children ages 2-4 are actively en- For more information or to sched- materials are carefully selected by a gaged in hands-on learning in a variety ule a tour, please call Lynda Stewart team of experts. of centers including: dramatic play and at 239.910.0293 or email Maimonides Thanks to the generosity of our housekeeping; listening, speaking and [email protected]. local funders – Judi Roth for The Roth Family Foundation and Ken- Temple Beth El Tot Shabbat neth and Gwenda Asher for The ooking for a great way for young loves to celebrate Shabbat. Asher Family Foundation – The PJ Jewish families to get to know All are invited to enjoy a vegetarian Library is available free to children each other and for non-Jewish pot luck Shabbat dinner and schmooz- who register in the Lee and Charlotte Lspouses to feel comfortable in the syn- ing following the brief service. Parents County area. Along with Harold agogue? Want to share Jewish tradi- and grandparents are welcome. Grinspoon, the visionary founder tion and joy with your grandchildren? For dates and more information, of The PJ Library, we are committed Come to Tot Shabbat at Temple Beth El call Rabbi Nicole Luna at 239.433.0018. to bringing The PJ Library to every once a month on Fri- family who wants to participate. The day evenings at 6:00 Harold Grinspoon Foundation sig- p.m. nificantly underwrites the cost of In addition to this program. singing Shabbat songs Whether you’re a parent, grand- and basic prayers, parent or friend of someone with and hearing a Jewish young children, please help us share story, the babies, tod- news of this special program with dlers and young chil- Jewish families throughout the area dren will meet Sababa who have children through age 8. the Shabbat dinosaur, For more information, please a blue dinosaur who Rabbi Nicole Luna leads Temple Beth El’s Tot Shabbat call the Jewish Federation office at 239.481.4449 or visit www.Jewish Look for school updates and “Focus on Youth” items FederationLCC.org. each month in L’CHAYIM.
44 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Hebrew/Religious Schools Focus on Youth Chabad Hebrew School of Cape Coral he Chabad Hebrew School of efficient, motivational and fun man- the lives of your entire family which Cape Coral is a trendsetter in ner. The experienced teachers imbue will ultimately perpetuate onto future creative Jewish education. The the children with Jewish pride, a love of generations. Tschool makes our 5,000-year-old tradi- G-d, love of their fellow Jews and love For more information, email Rivky tion and ancient history come alive and for the land of Israel. Labkowski at [email protected] relevant to the youth of today. At Chabad Hebrew School, chil- or visit www.chabadcape.com. Children ages 3-13, from diverse dren will gain a “Jewish” perspective backgrounds and affiliations, fall in love on life and involvement beyond the with Judaism, as they are introduced Hebrew School years through a variety Temple Judea to mitzvot (Jewish practices), Jewish of extracurricular activities such as Fri- Religious School ethics and Jewish holidays through day night dinners, family fun days and a multi-sensory approach, using art, contests. emple Judea Religious School music and drama. Mastery of the He- Chabad Hebrew School will add provides a nurturing environ- brew language is accomplished in an an enriching spiritual dimension to ment that fosters an enduring Trelationship with Judaism for every Temple Beth El Religious School young Jew. Each child is treated as an individual. The school specializes in emple Beth El Religious School Areas of study include Hebrew addressing the needs of every learner. strives to promote a love and reading accuracy and fluency, famil- Learners from every background are pride of being Jewish. It wants iarity with prayers, blessings and their welcome and will experience a place for Tits students to have a positive Jew- meanings. Creative art projects and them to discover the richness of Juda- ish identity and a strong understand- music are an integral part of the cur- ism. The school’s goal is to provide a ing and application of Reform Jewish riculum, and Jewish customs and tra- forum that helps students integrate Ju- ethics. ditions are taught as cornerstones of daism and its meaning into their daily Students learn about Jewish his- religious practice. lives. tory, practices and spirituality, and Sunday classes meet from 9:30 An experiential learning environ- gain a knowledge and appreciation of a.m. to noon for students in kinder- ment is created within the school in the Hebrew language while fostering a garten through grade seven. Confirma- which children not only learn about Ju- kinship with Israel, the motivation to tion grades (8 and 9) have a separate daism but live it. Teachers are dedicated pursue lifelong Jewish learning, and a schedule and meet on Sundays twice to instilling in each student a core set personal relationship with G-d . monthly. Wednesday Hebrew classes of Jewish values, cultural arts, a love for Under the direction of Dale M. Co- meet from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. and are for Torah and God, a proficiency in read- hen, R.J.E., MA Ed. for the past 19 years, students in grades 3-7. ing Hebrew, and an independence in the school offers a curriculum designed For more information, contact Re- leading prayers. B’nai Mitzvah prepa- to help each child feel great about be- ligious School Director Dale M. Cohen ration is also included in the Religious ing Jewish. The majority of the teaching at 239.433.9808 or daletemplebethel@ School curriculum. staff has been working together for over gmail.com, or visit www.templebethel. The Religious School holds 10 years. com. monthly student-led Shabbat evening services, and a yom iyun (day of learn- Temple Shalom Religious School ing) centering around each holiday. The he Religious School of Temple through the pathways of Jewish Educa- structure of the training that Temple Shalom of Charlotte Harbor and tion using the standard method of the Judea provides encourages students to the Gulf Islands is small in size text with the added hands-on of mean- hold leadership roles so that wherever Tbut unique in its ability to educate the ingful crafts. Every session includes they may later find themselves in col- students and present a positive attitude music, which is led by Rabbi Agin, lege and beyond they will have skills to towards Judaism. and later incorporated into the Family contribute. Under the careful attention of Friday Evening Shabbat Service with For more information, please con- Rabbi Solomon Agin, D.D., Mr. Irv Cantorial Soloist Jane Galler. tact Liz Singer, Director of Congre- Forsch, Mrs. Brooke Raider and Ms. For more info, email shalom06@ gational Learning, at 239.433.0201 or Nicole Thosath, the students are guided netzero.com or call 941.625.2116. [email protected].
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 45 Focus on Youth Hebrew/Religious Schools Maimonides Hebrew Day School aimonides Hebrew Day modes of Jewish observance. This aca- Maimonides is licensed and certi- School (MHDS) is the only demic program is complemented with fied to accept McKay scholarships for Jewish educational facil- art, music, drama and PE. those students already identified as ityM that offers a complete full-time (or The recently completed new facil- qualifying for special services. This is part-time) learning experience for chil- ity is equipped with the latest in tech- the only Jewish facility in Southwest dren (and their families). The school of- nology and materials, fers a dual curriculum for students in including a library for kindergarten through grade 8. students, their families The curriculum individualizes les- and the community. sons in all aspects of Judaic/Hebrew The low student-teacher studies and Secular/English studies, ratio enables individu- following the “New Generation Florida alized instruction and Sunshine State Standards.” the possibility of ac- MHDS’s Judaic studies acknowl- celerated learning, or edges and accommodates the full personal, remedial tu- possible range of Jewish religious ob- toring. There is a strong servance. The full-day program inte- emphasis on character grates instruction in English language: development, critical speaking, phonics, grammar, reading thinking and indepen- and writing, which is also mirrored in dent learning. Florida that has this program. MHDS Hebrew Language instruction. The day The school annually participates in is also able to accept Early Readiness also includes the crucial elements of standardized assessment of all students, Funding and Step-Up scholarships. this unique double curriculum: math, from kindergarten thru 6th grade, using To register your child, tour the fa- science and social studies, coupled the Stanford 10. The school’s students cility, or for more information, email with Torah studies, Jewish History and perform either on or above their grade- [email protected] or call Holidays, and various traditional level in these tests. Lynda Stewart at 239.910.0293. Temple Beth Shalom Religious School ounded in 1973, Temple Beth of members in good standing. It is be- nual food drive, in planting trees on Tu Shalom in Cape Coral is one of lieved that without educating the chil- B’Shevat, and in Simchas Torah festivi- the oldest Reform congrega- dren there is no future. ties. They perform a skit for the Pass- Ftions in Lee County. Building on its Barby Barlow has been supervising over Seder and decorate the sukkah. diverse, multi-generational resources, the school structure and activities for If you have children of school age the temple offers a true sense of social many years. Teacher and Israeli immi- and want them to grow up with an un- community with traditional worship of grant Aliza Bental works with the class derstanding of what it means to be Jew- Shabbat and other holidays, education on their Hebrew, the Jewish holidays, ish, and the comfort of knowing how, for young and old, and guidance for all. the history of the Jewish people and please call Barby Barlow at 941.639.9273 Rabbi Devora Buchen coordinates their homeland of Israel. or the temple office at 239.772.4555, or both the adult and children’s educa- Students also participate in the an- visit www.templebethshalomcc.org. tional programs. She tutors the B’nai Mitzvah students Chabad of Charlotte County and presides over the religious Hebrew School school’s holiday activities, • Girls and Boys age 3-12 which parallel that of the adult • Friendly, caring teachers congregation. • Affordable tuition For love of the children • Fun, hands-on lessons and concern for the future of • No synagogue membership required Judaism, the religious school • Scholarships available is tuition-free for all children TBS Class of 2016-2017 • Call for details: 941.833.3381
46 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Camps Focus on Youth Summer Camp at ers, and engage in creative outdoor stimulating and bolster Jewish pride in play. The caring staff ensures individual a safe, caring environment. The Learning Tree attention, maximum participation and The camp caters to children ages he Summer Camp at The Learn- success for each camper. 3-12 and features Kiddie Camp for ing Tree offers very flexible Best of all, each day at camp is filled three-year-olds. Exciting activities in- scheduling to meet your sum- with summer fun. Your child will be clude arts & crafts, swimming, sports, Tmer needs. Parents may enroll children inspired to explore, create, play and field trips, carnival, dress-up days, for one week or all summer! Full or part socialize during the weekly themes. Shabbos parties, Challah baking and so days can be chosen and schedules can Children participate in fun movement much more. Judaic themes come alive be 2, 3 or 5 days a week. games and musical exploration while through stories, songs, games and con- The camp is organized into inde- learning cooperation and socialization tests, which are part of the unique Gan pendent weekly adventures designed skills with friends. Israel experience. to delight your child, 2-6 years of age. You can enroll for one week or sev- Parents trust, and children adore, eral weeks. Please call 239.482.1121 to the dedicated and dynamic staff who learn more about the camp. love and nurture every child. Camp sessions are held both in the Camp Gan Israel summer and winter. Camp Gan Israel is not just a vacation experience; the of Cape Coral memories and lessons learned remain ooking for an exciting Jewish forever. Enroll your child now for an camp experience for your child? experience that will last a lifetime. Camp Gan Israel of Cape Coral, For more information, please con- Lpart of the largest and fastest-growing tact Rivky Labkowski at 239.541.1777 network of Jewish day camps in the or [email protected], or visit www. Each week includes outdoor water play, world, offers programs that are fun, chabadcape.com. ice cream truck, shaded playground, and critical thinking activities. Special activities abound with indoor bounce Earn CAS Credits houses for cool jumping in the Florida heat, pony rides, petting zoo, tea time The Jewish Federation of Lee with popular princess characters, and and Charlotte Counties is much more! interested in hearing from For more information, please call Preschool Director Jesyca Virnig, teenagers in high school who MAEd at 239.433.5499 or visit www. might like to earn CAS credits learningtreefort myers.com. though various work in the Jewish community. Temple Judea If you are interested, please Summer Camp send the following information here is nothing like the energy to [email protected]: of summer camp. The excite- Name ment and delight that summer Address Tcamp offers is an experience that all preschoolers need. The children look Phone # forward to the change in routine from Age preschool to camp. Grade At Temple Judea Summer Camp, School there is a wide variety of indoor and Preferred volunteer hours outdoor activities. Campers learn new (e.g. 2-5pm Sundays) skills, working cooperatively with oth-
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 47 Focus on Youth Teens/Youth Groups SAT Preparation Course Jewish Campus he Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Coun- Engagement Associate ties offers a comprehensive SAT preparatory course, complete with instruction provided by high school he Jewish Federations of Collier County, Lee & Char- Tand college-level educators, a current study guide, materials, lotte Counties, and Sarasota-Manatee Counties have snacks and beverages. worked collectively to hire a Jewish Campus Engage- Tment Associate, Jeremy Dictor. There is a maximum of 12 stu- dents per session, with two ses- Jeremy is working with students at Ringling College of sions offered per calendar year. Art + Design, New College of Florida, Florida Gulf Coast Classes are held at the Jewish Fed- University, and Florida South Western College to plan Jewish eration office twice a week for 2½ programming, holiday celebrations, internship and leader- hours per class. ship opportunities, and Birthright Israel experiences. Enrollments costs $375 per It is estimated that there are more than 1,000 Jewish stu- session. This is a tremendous value dents attending colleges in this area. Given the growth of the compared to other prep courses, which can cost over $500 Florida university system in Southwest Florida, the leader- per session for instruction alone. ship felt it was critically important that these schools be ser- For more information, contact Leni Sack at 239.481.4449 viced with a full-time professional. x3 or [email protected]. The collective has recently been accepted as a Hillel Af- filiate, which enables Jeremy and our Federations to work BBYO under the auspices of Hillel International, the largest Jewish campus organization in the world. ll Jewish teens in grades 8-12 are welcome to join For more information, please contact Jeremy Dictor at BBYO! BBYO is a pluralistic teen organization with [email protected]. a mission of involving more Jewish teens in more Ameaningful Jewish experiences. BBYO teens plan and lead programs that interest them with guidance from adult advi- Temple Beth El sors and staff. BBYO is a great way to get involved after your Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Junior Youth Group BBYO is newly launching emple Beth El Junior Youth Group is a community in the Fort Myers community of Jewish middle schoolers in Lee County who share with the goal of connecting local friendship, camaraderie and an action-based vision Tfor tikkun olam. Members meet monthly for fun events or teens with a larger network of Jewish teens throughout the State of Florida. celebrations related to the Jewish calendar. For more information on BBYO, contact Skylar Haas, Recent activities have included a KICK Teen Leadership Associate Regional Director, at [email protected]. Check out workshop on overcoming anti-Semitism and prejudice, High more online at www.bbyo.org. Holiday gift bag deliveries, an afternoon of Jewish Jeopardy, sandwich making for the homeless, field trips, scavenger JGirls – Good Friends. hunt and many other fun and fulfilling activities. All Jewish middles school students are welcome to join. Good Deeds. Good Times. Please email volunteer parent advisor Nadine Goodman at Girls is the newest club geared to Jewish girls who are [email protected] for more information. up for having a blast, diving into some real Girl Talk, Jand discovering just how powerful and important they BEFTY Youth Group really are. JGirls features Fun, Social, Art, “Hot Topic” Discus- EFTY (Beth El Federation of Temple Youth) is the high sions, Community Outreach and much more. It is open to school youth group at Temple Beth El. Two events are girls ages 10-13 and meets on Tues- held each month to keep teens involved in the temple days from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Chabad Band their Judaism, all while being social with other Jewish Jewish Center in Cape Coral teens. Events range from bowling to laser tag and from edible For more information or to RSVP, sukkahs to brunch. email [email protected] or call If you have a teen interested in joining BEFTY, contact 239.541.1777. the advisor, Elana Beame, at [email protected].
48 CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties Senior Gift Bags & Visits Light up a Face During the Holidays!
The Jewish Federation's Senior visit program takes place three times a year—just before Rosh
Hashanah, Hanukkah and Passover.
Volunteers fill gift bags with edible kosher treats and gifts, sometimes handmade by children in our community. Then families stop by the Federation office to pick up the pre-filled bags and deliver them to Jewish senior citizens throughout Lee & Charlotte Counties.
Many Jewish seniors are isolated from the rest of their families and have limited contact with the world outside of their homes or assisted living facilities. These visits mean the world to the seniors and help them stay connected to the Jewish community.
Teens who help with the packing or the delivery of the bags can earn Community Service hours.
For more information on how to get involved with this rewarding program, please contact Leni Sack at 239.481.4449 x3 or [email protected]. Grow your business with L’CHAYIM!
Targeted Distribution JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL
Each month, 5,000 DECEMBER 2016 L'CHAYIM Reach our affluent, informed, health- 16 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties The Jewish Federation of Jewish residents conscious, and savvy readers who are Lee and Charlottest CountiesAnnual looking for new and better ways to Presents the 21 in Lee and Charlotte Jewish Film Festival enrich their lives and those of their of Southwest Florida
counties turn to loved ones. L’CHAYIM – the monthly All lms will be screened at the Regal Cinemas Bell Tower. Open seating at all lms for general admission tickets. newspaper published by the Jewish ickets ill be mailed up to December 1. L’CHAYIM for: ickets ordered after December 1 ill be available after :00 p.m. inside the theater on the day of ponsorship the sho . Federation of Lee and Charlotte Coun- opportunities are Thursday, January 12 at 7:15 p.m. available that include 2016 21 SABENA HIJACKING: L'CHAYIM DECEMBER u MY VERSION reserved seating. ee Upcoming major events ties – is mailed to 5,000+ residents in Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties This docu-drama is based on previously undiscovered audio recordings of former pilot Captain Reginald Levy. Captain Levy, now deceased, was the form on page 1 . in command of Sabena Flight 571 from Brussels, Belgium, to Tel Aviv on ISRAEL & THE JEWISHMay 8, WORLD1972, when it was hijacked by four members of Black September, the armed wing of Fatah or PLO. The fi lm fi nally shares the untold story Thank You to these the area. Additional copies are available of what exactly took place on the fl ight throughout the 30 hours of nerve- wracking captivity. It fuses candid interviews with dramatic reenactments. Sponsors of the u Community Directory srael rushes aidIt takesto viewers the into the aircraft world s to witness the events worstfi rsthand as the earth ua es hijackers threaten to explode hand grenades unless 300 prisoners were Jewish Film Festival: Israel is often one of the fi rst countriesreleased. The result on is a the fast-paced ground fi lm full ofto suspense, offer which poses humanitarian aid after the world’shistorical most and political devastating questions that helpedspecialists earthquakes. to shape to thetrain Israel local of today.NGOs to run at the Jewish Federation office. an emotional support hotline, and has Principal Sponsor TheyLanguage also fortifi: English ed 332 /Hebrew/Arabic/French public build- By Nicky Blackburn, ISRAEL21c, www.israel21c.org, September1 hr. 38 min. 13, 2016 set up a beekeeping cooperative staff ed ings, andRunning conducted Time: safety and survival hen Krishna Devi Khadka, by women who lost their homes and workshops for 605 Nepalese citizens. Exhibit “Drawing Against Oblivion” has local connection was pulled out of the rubble sources of income in the earthquake. u of a hotel fi ve days after a Israeli civilian NGO IsraAID also A baby is born at the IDF fi eld hospital in Nepal Synagogue news The organization also trained six (Photo courtesy of the IDF) W arrived two days after the quake, with devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake in theater troupes to present plays in Tuesday, Januaryan emergency relief 17 team atof doctors 7:15 p.m. Japan, which killed some 16,000 Nepal on April 25 2015, the fi rst people earthquake-aff ected districts, to relay and search-and-rescueIN SEARCH specialists. The OF people and left 230,000 homeless. she saw were Israeli. information about community resilience team quickly established a temporary As in Haiti, Israeli aid organizations Khadka, a maid at the hotel, had ISRAELI CUISINEand trauma, a model that is now being field clinic in the Sindhupalchowk remain in Japan today long after been trapped in an air pocket covered This fi lm is a portrait of the Israeli peopleadopted told throughby UNICEF. food. It is drawn district of Nepal, one of the worst-hit all other foreign aid organizations by a corpse. She was rescued after a dra- from the more than 100 cultures that makeNepal up Israelwas not today. the Throughfi rst time that u Local Organization news Life-Enriching Information areas. interviews with chefs, farmers, home cooks, vintners and cheese makers, have left. Aid workers are helping matic 10-hour operation led by IsraAID, The organization brought sup- to build a mental health support net- to visits to farms, markets, restaurants and kitchens, audiences will an Israeli humanitarian aid organization. discover that this hot, multi-cultural cuisine has developed only in the work in the country, and recording The 24-year-old was taken imme- plies and medical services, and opened psychologist-staffedlast 30 years. In safethat shortspaces time, for Israel went from being one of the poorest the testimonies of survivors. diately to the only working hospital in children countriesleft wandering in the theworld streets to one after of the most advanced. Its sophistication April 2015: A double earthquake Kathmandu, a large fi eld hospital run by the quake.mirrors the current state of the Israeli people and their food: secular, in Kumamoto City, Japan, which Each month, readers of L’CHAYIM get the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). outward looking and innovative. The chef/guide of the fi lm is Michael Community development nonprofi t killed 49 and injured 3,000. Khadka was one of thousands of Solomonov, the James Beard award-winning chef/owner of Zahav and a u Tevel b’Tzedek (The Earth in Justice), 1 hr. 34 min. Feb 2016: A 6.4 magnitude earth- Jewish Federation updates people across Nepal who survived the number of other restaurants in Philadelphia. which has been carrying out humanitar- quake in Taiwan, which killed 117 fi rst quake and the second magnitude Language: English Running Time: The IDF fi eld hospital in Nepal ian work in Nepal since 2007 and al- people, 115 of them in one residen- 7.3 quake that followed two weeks later, Israel has rushed to provide aid in the ready had a team on the ground, rushed tial building in Kaohsiung City. news and updates on all Jewish-re- thanks to Israeli aid. The two quakes wake of a deadly earthquake. Israeli to help, providing connections, training April 2016: The 7.8 magnitude were a catastrophic double blow for Ne- humanitarian workers have helped out and understanding of the region to other earthquake in Ecuador, which killed after earthquakes in India, Turkey, Peru, Thursday,NGOs January arriving on the scene.19 at 7:15 p.m. 661 and injuredDr. nearly Brian and 28,000 Sara Krivisky u MagenFANNY’S David Adom (MDA) JOURNEY sent and the devastating earthquake and people. Community Calendar tsunami that hit Southeast Asia in 2004. out a trainedFanny’s disaster Journey delegation is an incredible includ- tale of bravery, strength and survival – a To view more stories on Israel’s Here are the main earthquakes where Martha & John Wolf lated local events including the Jewish story of a daring young girl who will stop at nothing and fear no one. In ing 10 paramedics and two physicians, exceptional humanitarian aid efforts Israel has given aid since 2010: and later1943, distributed 13-year-old building Fanny supplies and her younger sisters were sent fromOUR their COMMUNITYabroad in the My Name is Israel aid home in France to an Italian foster home forJan Jewish 2010: children. Israel gained When worldwidethe and food to 800 Nepali families. praise for the speed and effi ciency exhibition, or to download the exhibit The NazisDream arrive Doctors in Italy, sent their medical caretakers desperately organize the departure with which it off ered aid to Haiti for display, visit http://www.israel21c. DECEMBER 2016 of the children to Switzerland. Suddenly left on their own, these eleven L'CHAYIM clowns to bring relief and cheer to org/exhibition/my-name-is-israel/. IsraAID working in the Gongabu district of children will do the impossible to reach thein theSwiss wake border of ain catastrophic order to 7.0 u Film Festival, Jewish author programs, Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte survivors.Counties Editor and Israel Director,Helene & NickyJorge Glocer Holocaust Museum news 6 Kathmandu (Photo: IsraAID/Mickey Noam Alon) survive. magnitude earthquake that killed OtherLanguage: Israeli FrenchNGOs – ZAKA, Blackburn has worked extensively as a pal that left 9,000 people dead, 22,000 1 hr. 34 min. around 160,000 people andily membersleft they lost, and others were United Hatzalah,Running Time: Natan International Lin &journalist Ron Klein and editor both in Britain and injured and hundreds of thousands of 280,000 buildings destroyed.created Five by the families of Holocaust sur- Humanitarian Aid and Israeli missionFlying from the Museum, Mr. Diaz Israel for a range of national andTravel inter- homes, offi ces and temples destroyed years later, Israel was still invivors Haiti Barbaraand camp &liberators Barry we worked Coming u at the Aid olocaustth Anniversary– were also Editioninvolved, in consideredrescue, useum optionshelping for its rebuildcreation. the Con- community. nationalEpstein publications including or damaged. George – 75 with in our education Israel programs High who Tech Investor holiday celebrations, concerts, food By Amy Snyder, Executive Director, Holocaust Museumrecovery and & reliefEducation operations Center intemplating Nepal of SWFL the tragedy of the Holocaust Weekly, Linda. & She Charles was Idelson Israel was one of the fi rst countries Feb 2011: A 6.3 magnitude earth- The Little Ships: The HeroicAcross Rescue the and “all of the genocides have passed away.The The Times community of London also The t is hard to believe we have come along with FIRST, a consortium of quake in New Zealand, which killed Zeldaand Dubin to send humanitarian aid to Nepal,at Dunkirk and in World War II, which had occurred in participated by creating tribute fl owers u to the end of another year, and IsraeliThe Great- government and army rescue Memorialthe High-Tech Correspondent for Candle Lighting Times the range and breadth of that aid from 185. Blue Pacifi cservices., history and continue for relativesJerusalem lost in the Post Holocaust,. as 2017 is fastso many approaching! sectors Weof Israeli look life – the March 2011: The 9.0 magnitude Philanthropic I Tuesday,est Skating January RaceOver and a year later, 24 Tevel at b’Tzedek 7:15 p.m.to occur in the modern well as gardenFund landscape fl owers created forward to welcoming you in 2017 government,with the a number military of and various KEEP QUIET world,”earthquake he “decidedand tsunami to in Tohoku, festivals, book study groups, timely lec- His Name Wasand IsraAIDRaoul are Asstill Vice at work President in Nepal, of Jobbik, Hungary’s far-right extremist party,by students and the public to fi ll in the NGOs – verywas specialso significant pro- that the Wallenberg. offThe ering set can training Csanad and support Szegedi to regularly help espousedcreate anti-Semitic a work of artrhetoric that andgarden Marshabackground & scene.Mike Nepalese gramstoday regardand events. Israel as a source be pre-orderedvillagers with get a backHolocaust on their denials.feet. He was a founderwould of theconvey Hungarian seren- Guard, The offi Kistlercial unveiling of the Memo- of inspiration.Please visit our signed bookplate,Tevel at no b’Tzedek a now-banned runs a youth militia ser- inspired byity the and Arrow beauty, Cross, always a pro-NaziJEWS rial Garden will take& place in late Janu- Accordingwebsite to fiat gures www. compiled by u extra charge,vice and program will modeledparty complicit after Israel’sin the murder keepingof thousands in mindof Jews our during ary 2017 Anna as part & Yaleof the Levin commemoration Business Directory CNN, IsraelHolocaustMu sent more personnel to the WWII. Then came a revelation which transformed his Keeplife. pm be ready forShnat pickup Sherut, at year of national service, hopes, to liveBROADWAY in bal- of International Holocaust Remem- tures, mah jongg and much more. They disaster sceneseumSWFL.org than any other country. Szegedi’s maternal grandparents were revealed to be Jewish and Cheryl & Michael the event. in earthquake-devastated villages to ance, peace and love brance Day. The IDFand arrivedlook for in Nepalour two days Thursday, FebruaryGoldstein 9 at 7:30 Luncheonhelp tickets rebuild communities. Tevel also in the world society, OperaThe MuseumNaples is located at 4760 after the fiJanuary rst quake, column with a team of his beloved grandmotherare $150 per an runsperson, Auschwitz a varietyand survivor of recovery who had hiddenprograms her faith fearingmoving further away persecution. from our2408 LinwoodTamiamiLynda TrailAvenue, North,& Michael Naples Suite 7, in Naples. 260 physiciansto provide and search-and-rescueaddi- Amy Quiet depictssponsorships Szegedi’s three-yearin are agriculture, avail- journey education, as he is guided disaster-risk by Rabbi Boruchmistaken Oberlander primitive to embrace ways his It is open Rubensteinyear-round Tuesday through experts. Withintional details.12 newfoundhours they religion, able.had set Dressforced isto businessconfront the painful truths of his family’s past, ofhis Rabbithinking own wrongdoing, Kanter and presentsgoing and the We Sunday; Jews closedOn Broadway, Monday and a sing-along major Jew- history Snyder reduction, resilience, crisis interven- 1 hr. 30 min. also get updates from the area’s syna- up a fi eld hospital inturbulent Kathmandu, history theof his country. But is this astonishingRunning transformation Time: a processforward ofof genuinethe with American the reparation lessons musical and from the Gay ’90s operetta of Romberg & casual. Nettion proceeds and income generation for some ish and U.S. holidays u Annual Luncheon Friml… through Berlin, Kern, the Gershwins and Rodgers & Hart… to Rabbinical Reflections IDF’s largest ever, whichspiritual included awakening two or is he simply a desperate man with nowhere else to turn? We extend our best wishes for benefit the education The Museum’s Annual Luncheon will 25,000 villagers in six of Nepal’slearned.” most Sondheim, Mel Brooks and Kander & Ebb – the Broadway of today. operating tents, fourLanguage intensive-care: English,programs Hebrew of withthe EnglishHo- subtitles Happy Holidays to you and your be held on Thursday, December 15 from impoverished regions. Entitled “The Garden,$50.00 2016,” General the in- seating • $75.00 Benefactor Preferred seating tents, 60 hospital beds, and specialistslocaust MuseumIsraAID & Education runs a Centervariety of humani- family. 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at The Ritz- dividually-framed paintedEvent backgrounds concludes with an elegant wine and dessert reception in neonatal and adult care. of SWFL. For more information on Carlton Beach Resort, 280 Vanderbilt tarian projects in Nepal and plansfeature to be an idealized meadow scene. The gogues and numerous local Jewish or- The team brought 95 tonsreservations of hu- and sponsorships, please Tickets are available atPhoto naplesjewishcongregation.org Credit for Curious George image above: or mail there for at least three more years. The Beach Road,manitarian Naples. Host and Sponsors medical for supplies from memorial “tribute fl owers”your check created made dur- out toThe Naples requested Jewish images Congregation, from the cover are along used with contact Developmentorganization Specialist distributes Tim warm clothing your name, address andin phonethe book number, by permission to: NJC,of the dePO Grummond Box 111994, the event areIsrael, Estelle and and during Stuart their Price. stay they treated ing the November workshops will beNaples Children’s FL 34108, Literature Attn Collection, Tickets The University of Morrison at toTim@HolocaustMuseum Nepali children, has brought in Israeli u Our guest speaker is author LouiseThe incorporated into the design. Under Mr. Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS. Israel updates 1,600 patients, performed more than 85 SWFL.org or call 239.263.9200. Borden, who will discuss her book, . Diaz’s direction, some were created by surgeries and delivered eight babies.Memorial Garden Art Installation Journey that Saved Curious George Holocaust survivors in honor of the fam- ganizations. It’s the place they turn to nearing completion The book describes the “story behind BROADWAY & The Museum’s Memorial Garden the story” of the creation of the much- IF YOU AREArt Installation NOT in MAKING loved Curious George character. Be pm our front windows prepared to learn a lot of “curious” facts SOCIAL CHANGE 5% ON YOURis nearing comple- MONEY Friday, February 10 at 7:30 u about everyone’s favorite monkey. Did Photos of recent events tion. As mentioned in for community news, the community Unitarian Universalist Congregation you know that his original name wasn’t ...Then you want toour give October us column,a call. The product has a 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples • Free admission! George? Or that he wasn’t the main artist Juan Diaz cre- character starringfixed in the booksrate createdof 5% per annum or higher, paid monthly! Rabbi Kanter will be our guest at Shabbat services, and will trace ated the four beautiful by H.A. and Margret NoRey? waiting Or that he around until the end of the term the dominant role played by Jewish composers in Tin Pan Alley. panels in, and as part From Irving Berlin and George Gershwin to Jerome Kern and Billy almost never got to be famous at all? Ms.to receive your interest! of, the LIGHT Per- Rose, these songs are musical companions to American history. calendar, candle lighting times, and a Borden will fi ll you in on all the details. Your Principal and Interest are SECURED formance Art Style u She is also the author of several and much more Series for which he is children’s books dealing with World No long term commitments – RABBI KENNETH KANTER well known. War II and the Holocaust. Five of her short duration of about a year Rabbi Kenneth Kanter is a nationally known author When he received The Garden, 2016Created - Acrylic in and on Treatedpart of the Muslin LIGHT Fabric, Performance 6’2” x 16’3” Art Diptych Style Series. (Each Artist: Panel: Juan 6’2” Diaz©x 8’1” and 6’2” x 8’2”) books will be available for purchase at and entertainer focusing on the Jewish influence the This Memorial is NOT com- an ANNUITY business directory. the event as a set for $60. Titles included on American popular music. Viewers have called ,” STOCKS, OPTIONS or a REIT are The Journey that Saved Curious This is NOT his unique sing-along concert/ lecture events Jewish Federation“high-energy of,” Lee“inspiring & Charlotte,” “exhilirating Counties,” Gold, Silver or any other an absolutely superband night of entertainment This is NOT “an absolutely“the superb kind ofnight event of weentertainment will long remember.” F and joy” and De e ber 201 5 eration Commodity d ol. No. Events Jewish Fed There are NO TRANSCTION the I FEES OR sponsored F in part by
COMMISSIONS for you to pay EVER! Iends o www.JewishFederationLCC.org Anti srael media-Israel sentiments ias JEWISH on college CONGREGATIONcampuses: 100% OF YOUR MONEY GOES Facing anti NAPLES and how Ato PROGRAM fiShabbat x FOR it! services 11TH ANDare held 12TH every GRADERS Friday night at the TO WORKon to FOR the Fr YOU IMMEDIATELY! 1:00 p.m. at Temple Bethhand El account (16225 of Further the missionI of our A CAMERA Letter-Writing Workshop Hear a first- Unitarian UniversalistWinkler Rd, Congregation, Fort Myers), 6340 is co-spon-o vercameNapa Woods Way, Naples For more information,to realize that, in please my years contact hink the media are biased? how one student Federation and community More informationsored at 239-431-3858by the Jewish orFederation www.naplesjewishcongregation.org of Lee A DAY TO SALUTE OURin JewishSOLDIERS philanthropy, If you answered yes, you’re anti Semitism at Florida Bruce Greenstein,neither a Democratic norLUTC a not alone. Americans’WARM trust in • andREFORM CharlotteAtlantic Counties• AFFORDABLE University and Temple • ADULT The exclusive way to reach Tim Shaw Financial Consultantsh Beth El. FROM THE An Introduct Republican administrationT 2016T 13 the media has sunk to an all-time low, The workshop will be led by Sarit has materially aff ected in a according to a Gallup survey released Learn about what's happening EXECUTIVE Catz, the internationalon college campuses director todayof (239) 425-9707positive ~ [email protected] mannerECEMBER those who , FLthis 34119 past September. DIRECTOR ALOM CAMERA’s withletter-writing regard to team, the Boycott, a net- need help the most. Sh ThereAPLES Confi dence in the mass media “to 7:00PM - CONCERT N work of 17,000Divestment volunteers & who Sanctions respond (BDS) TUESDAY, D OAD Alan Isaacs is never enough public assistanceTEMPLE R to go OSENreport the news fully, accurately and movement, Students for ICk R to distorted news coverage of Israel. RIDGE Ent Chairs: R fairly” plunged to its lowest level in y the time you read this we will around. And that’s INEwhere Evthe Jewish Catz willJustice speak inabout Palestine recognizing and other AND Gallup polling history. Only 32% of -Israel movements. have voted to elect the next Federation comes4630 inP and where you, as media bias andanti then conduct a hands- ELLAINE those polled said they had a great deal president of the United States individuals, can have a decisive impact on letter-writing workshop that will or fair amount of trust in the news. B on the outcome no matter who presides provide attendees with the tools needed and, hopefully, he or she will have News about Israel can be particu- over our country. VIP SEAT to respond thoughtfully and eff ectively received a clear mandate to lead our $90 PATRON larly distorted and unfair. In Septem-With special guest I call on you to reconcile with the TO A PRIvATE country. We, as Jews, have endured, ARE INvITED E to faulty reporting. A SPECIAL PERFORMANCE SPONSORS PERFORMANber, thec same month in which the Gal- the Jewish Community in election outcome*PATRON as soon asbEFORE possible ThE “I don’t believe there’s a journalis- through our long history as wander- EPTION OF POPULAR AND TRADITIONALand begin c OagainckTAIL to RE furtherc the mission lup S EATpoll came out, the CommitteeRayna for Rose Exelbierd ers, the hazards of ISRAELIlife under SONGS dictators, PERFORMED ADMISSION tic conspiracy to denigrateUs Israel,” said of our Federation andENERAL our community Accuracy in Middle East Reporting in tandWith monarchs and other manifestations of $18 G UNDER SCatz. “But coverage does frequently “To strengthen and enrich theGES Jewish 12 AND America (CAMERA) prompted cor- Coordinator governance into whichBY weISRAELI have had SOLDIERS FREE A suff er from a number of serious prob- community by providing and support- rections from 20 major news outlets High School little, if any, input. We have often been Southeastlems that CAMERA’s staff and letter ing philanthropic, educational and so- that had published false information the victims of these rulers and their onlIne: https://www.fidf.org/naples-IdF-e nsemble16ChAPTER writers seek to fi x and prevent.” se tIckets MIAMI about the Jewish state. cial service programs locally, in Israel o PurchA Journalists, she said, are sometimes whims, in some casest to mortal eff ect. ETS CALL FIDF GREATER FIDF.ORGCAMERA, the oldest and largest FOR TICandk throughout the world”AIME .SAGONAand to pur-@ just uneducated about Middle East his- The Jewish destiny resided often in the Middle East media monitoringSunday, organi- January 15, 2017 sue305.354.8233 our vision of “A| j Jewish communi- tory. “Reports can lack crucial histori- hands of a capricious individual and a zation in the world, will be presenting a - 6:30 PM ty that is based on Jewish values such cal context,”4:00 she said. P.M. “Our researchers hostile society. workshop to teach local residents how continued on page 3 I think that it is important in these as Tzedakah (benevolence), Tikkun Jewish Federation
to combat media bias. The workshop, Olam (repairing the world) and K’lal - Fort Myers
weeks following the election to refl ect Lee and Charlotte counties. Yisrael (taking responsibility for one to be held on Monday, December9701 5 at Commerce Center Court on our standing today as Jews in our another).” society, in our country and in our com- Pizza & beverages will be served munity, and to appreciate what we, JEWISH FEDERATION ed. as Jews, have accomplished and will imi t s l i ce a Sp e. continue to accomplish irrespective of lcom we Guests are who governs this country. COMMUNITY BREAKFAST While I know intimately of Jews
in our community who struggle to put Sunday,R.S.V.P December to Leni Sack: 239.481.4449 11 ext. 3 food on the table, we are a community or [email protected]. that is suffi ciently strong and caring 10:00 a.m to help. While some of usPhone suff (305)er the 354-8233 | Fax (305) 354-8296 | e-mail [email protected] anguish of isolationFriends and ofloneliness, the Israel d efense Forces is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization. our community reaches outcontributions and sup- are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law. ports. While some Jewish communities Guest Speaker : Dr. David Dalin around the world still fi ght anti-Sem-
itism, repression and poverty, we are Topic : The Presidents of the alert and provideRead relief. the current and previous editions of L’CHAYIM online at Unitedwww.JewishFederationLCC.org. States and the Jews: For more information We cannot predict with any as- surance how we as individuals and as From Abraham Lincoln to Barack Obama a community will be aff ected by the outcome of the election. It is reason- ably safe to assume however, that the needs of our community will not re- duce in quantity or urgency. It is sad David G. Dalin, an ordained -rabbiauthor and or historian, is the author, co or to place an ad in L’CHAYIM: editor of eleven books on American Jewish history and politics, and Jewish He has taught at Christian relations. Ave Maria University, and at the University of Hartford, has been a visiting professor at the Jewish Theological
CROWNE PLAZA Seminary of America, a Research Fellow at Stanford Call: Jim Lewin at 239.634.6923 13051 Bell Tower Drive University and a Visiting Fellow at Princeton University.
Fort Myers Based on his book, Dr. Dalin will talk about the role and the Jewish e e tion - presiden- o ee n Ch otte experiences of Jews in various presidential administra- tions. He will illuminate the history of Jewish Counties esents Couvert: $18/person st nnu tial relations, presidential appointments of Jews to politi- the RSVP to Leni by December 7 cal positions, and the history of presidential views and Email: [email protected] Jewish i m esti 239.481.4449 x3 or policies on Jewish interests and concerns. o outhwest o i ee es o [email protected] om ete et i s N NPR FIT RG POSTMASTER: S P STAGE 9701 Commerce Center Court DATED RELIGIOUS PAID Fort Myers, Florida 33908 NEWS ITEMS. FT MYERS, FL Website: Visit the L’CHAYIM page at TIME SENSITIVE– PERMIT N 17 PLEASE EXPEDITE! www.JewishFederationLCC.org DELIVER T C RRENT RESIDENT R
To receive L’CHAYIM, please call 239.481.4449 x4. Calendar 2017 Candle lighting times for the Lee and Charlotte area: July 14: 8:05 pm October 5, Eve of Second day July 21: 8:03 pm Sukkot: after 7:44 pm July 28: 7:59 pm October 6: 6:50 pm August 4: 7:55 pm October 11, Eve of Shemini January 6: 5:33 pm August 11: 7:49 pm Atzeret: 6:45 pm January 13: 5:38 pm August 18: 7:43 pm October 12, Eve of Simchat January 20: 5:43 pm August 25: 7:36 pm Torah: after 7:37 pm January 27: 5:49 pm September 1: 7:29 pm October 13: 6:43 pm February 3: 5:54 pm September 8: 7:22 pm October 20: 6:37 pm February 10: 5:59 pm September 15: 7:14 pm October 27: 6:31 pm February 17: 6:04 pm September 20, Eve of First day November 3: 6:26 pm February 24: 6:08 pm Rosh Hashanah: 7:08 pm November 10: 5:22 pm March 3: 6:12 pm September 21, Eve of Second day November 17: 5:19 pm March 10: 6:16 pm Rosh Hashanah: after 7:59 pm November 24: 5:17 pm March 17: 7:20 pm September 22: 7:06 pm December 1: 5:17 pm March 24: 7:23 pm September 29, Eve of December 8: 5:18 pm March 31: 7:26 pm Yom Kippur: 6:58 pm December 15: 5:20 pm April 7: 7:30 pm October 4, Eve of First day December 22: 5:23 pm April 10, Eve of First day Sukkot: 6:53 pm December 29: 5:27 pm Passover: 7:31 pm April 11, Eve of Second day Passover: after 8:25 pm 2017 (5777/5778) Holidays April 14: 7:33 pm Holidays start at sundown on the evening before the dates listed. April 16, Eve of Seventh day Tu B’Shevat: February 11 (Saturday) Passover: 7:34 pm Purim: March 12 (Sunday) April 17, Eve of Eighth day Passover: after 8:28 pm Passover (Pesach): April 11 (Tuesday) April 21: 7:37 pm Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah): April 24 (Monday) April 28: 7:41 pm Israel Memorial Day (Yom HaZikaron): May 1 (Monday) May 5: 7:44 pm Israel Independence Day (Yom HaAtzmaut): May 2 (Tuesday) May 12: 7:48 pm Lag B’Omer: May 14 (Sunday) May 19: 7:52 pm May 26: 7:56 pm Jerusalem Day (Yom Yerushalayim): May 24 (Wednesday) May 30, Eve of First day Shavuot: May 31 (Wednesday) Shavuot: 7:58 pm Tisha B’Av: August 1 (Tuesday) May 31, Eve of Second day Rosh HaShanah 5778: September 21 (Thursday) Shavuot: after 8:55 pm Yom Kippur: September 30 (Saturday) June 2: 7:59 pm June 9: 8:02 pm Sukkot: October 5 (Thursday) June 16: 8:05 pm Shemini Atzeret: October 12 (Thursday) June 23: 8:06 pm Simchat Torah: October 13 (Friday) June 30: 8:07 pm Hanukkah (Chanukah): December 13 (Wednesday) July 7: 8:07 pm
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 51 Connections 2014 GUIDE TODirectory JEWISH LIFE of IN AdvertisersLEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES Attorneys Museums Lowell S. Schoenfeld 15 Holocaust Museum & Education Center Guy E. Whitesman 24 of Southwest Florida 3
Financial Services Photography Stacy Hersha, CPA 31 Michael Shapiro Photography 18 Cary R. Kleinfield 9 Brian Simon 24 Restaurants The Bagel Factory 16 Gifts Temple Beth El Gift Gallery 9 Senior Living Alternatives Aviva 25 Health/Medical Services Discovery Village 29 Advanced Pain Management & Spine Specialists 21 Shell Point 17 AHA! A Holistic Approach Center 27 Daniel Bendetowicz, MD 23 Synagogues Rena Essrog, MSS, LCSW, CSAT 19 Temple Beth El 1 David M. Heligman, MD 16 Temple Beth Shalom 19 Ryder Orthopaedics 15 Temple Judea Back Cover Rick Snyderman, Pedorthist 31 Taschner Periodontics 14 Theatres Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre 13 Home & Design Lee Lighting 16 PCC Tile 7 Stay in touch throughout the year. Insurance Lott & Gaylor Insurance 23 Sign up for the Federation’s e-blasts. The Jewish Federation of LeeStay and Connected. Charlotte Counties thanks allRegister of our for our advertisers for their continued support!email newsletter. Get the latest information on upcoming Without them we would be unablewww. to jfedsrqcommunity events.org and cultural activities, provide you with Connections. Please breaking news, updates from Israel and more. support our advertisers and let them Send an email to know you saw their ad in Connections. [email protected]
Published52 CONNECTIONS by the Jewish2017 Federation A Guide to Jewish of Living Lee in Lee and and Charlotte Charlotte Counties Counties www.JewishFederationLCC.org Index Adult education 18-20 Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU 17 Advocacy Groups 32 Jewish National Fund 31 American Friends of Magen David Adom 31 Jewish War Veterans Post 400 28 American Israel Public Affairs Committee 32 Jewish Young Professionals 24 American Technion Society 29 JFed Social Club 25 Anti-Defamation League 32 JFed Stitchers 12 Arts & Culture 8-17 JGirls 48 Bat Yam - Temple of the Islands 37 L’CHAYIM 8 BBYO 48 Little Branches 43 BEFTY Youth Group 48 Mah Jongg 9 Camp Gan Israel of Cape Coral 47 Maimonides Hebrew Day School 46 Candle lighting times 51 Maimonides Hebrew Day School - Preschool 44 Cemeteries 23 Media Monitors Roundtable 32 Chabad Hebrew School of Cape Coral 45 Mikvah 23 Chabad Jewish Center of Cape Coral 39 Museums 16-17 Chabad Jewish Center of Charlotte County 40 Organizations 24-32 Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida 38 Partnership2gether 7 Chabad of Bonita Springs & Estero 40 PJ Library 42, 44 Chevra Kadisha 23 Preschools 42-44 Consulate General of Israel for Florida & Puerto Rico 29 SAT Preparation Course 48 Education - Children 42-48 Schools 42-46 Education - Adult 18-20 Senior Visits 22, 49 FGCU Center for Judaic, Holocaust, Shalom Life Center 26 and Genocide Studies 15 Special Interest Groups 24-28 Federation Book Club 12 StandWithUs 32 Federation 4-7 Synagogues 33-41 Film Festival 10-11 Temple Beth El 33 Food Pantry 22 Temple Beth El Junior Youth Group 48 Funeral homes & cemeteries 23 Temple Beth El Religious School 45 Generations of the Shoah - SWFL 26 Temple Beth Shalom 35 Hadassah - Collier/Lee Counties Chapter 24 Temple Beth Shalom Religious School 46 Hadassah - Sharon Chapter (Charlotte County) 25 Temple Beth El Tot Shabbat 44 HAZAK 55+ 28 Temple Judea 34 Hebrew/Religious Schools 45-46 Temple Judea Preschool 42 Holocaust Memorial Service 15 Temple Judea Religious School 45 Holocaust Museum & Education Center of SWFL 16 Temple Judea Summer Camp 47 Humanistic Jewish Havurah 28 Temple Judea Toddler Time 42 Israel Connection 29-31 Temple Shalom of Charlotte Harbor Israeli Folk Dancing 9 and the Gulf Islands 41 Jewish Campus Engagement Associate 48 Temple Shalom Religious School 45 Jewish Family Services 22 The Community Free Synagogue 36 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 4-7 The Learning Tree 43 Jewish Film Festival 10-11 The Learning Tree Preschool Summer Camp 47 Jewish Historical Society of SWFL 27 Youth groups 48 Jewish holidays 51 Zionist Organization of America 30
CONNECTIONS2017 A Guide to Jewish Living in Lee and Charlotte Counties 53 Temple Judea is a progressive congregation affiliated with the Conservative Movement. The congregation encourages all people to explore and express Jewish commitment through learning, prayer, observance and acts of social responsibility. Our worship services and education programs reflect the strength of our commitment. Our religious school teaches children to be at home with Hebrew and the history of our people. Our developmental pre-school is renowned for giving children a strong foundation for learning. Our social programs reflect our friendliness and Rabbi Marc Sack love. We support everyone in their desire for connection to God, Torah and the Jewish people.
14486 A&W Bulb Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 239.433.0201 www.TJSWFL.org