www.JewishFederationLCC.org Vol. 40, No. 5 n January 2018 / 5778 Advancing our mission the world) and K’lal Yis- PJ LIBRARY RADIO LIVE! FROM THE rael (taking responsibility EXECUTIVE for one another). Contributions of time, DIRECTOR skills and financial re- Alan Isaacs sources combine to sup- port a system that provides s our 2017 campaign year for the cultural, social and educational draws to a close I reflect on the needs of our community at large, and Agenerosity of our community. serves as a social service safety net Generosity comes in several forms, all for those who face temporary and of which enable the Jewish Federation chronic challenges in their daily lives. to provide the programs and services We depend on you for your involve- that we are mandated to deliver in fur- ment as participants, volunteers and Now PJ library families can listen to Jewish kids therance of our mission: To strengthen supporters. music — anytime, anywhere. and enrich the Jewish Community by It is the Federation’s intention in providing and supporting philanthrop- 2018, as it is every day, to advance our Introducing PJLibraryRadio.com, an online ic, educational and social service pro- mission and to draw yet closer to our grams locally, in Israel and throughout vision for our community. These goals streaming radio station with more than 2,000 songs the world, and in line with our vision: are only attainable through your in- from hundreds of artists across the globe. A Jewish Community that is based on volvement: Participate now! Volunteer Jewish values such as Tzedakah (be- now! Support now! Music is available 24/7 with special music blocks nevolence), Tikkun Olam (repairing for Shabbat, Holiday and Bedtime.
For complete • Listen to the music online information • Download the free app on ITunes, Google Play on all 11 films, or Tune In Radio dates, times and a ticket order form, see pages 16-17.
Jewish Federation and Temple Beth El Sisterhood invite you to a screening of
JEWISH PIONEERS A ilm about Jewish life in Lee County After the film enjoy a as seen through the eyes of dessert reception The film is af project Sheila & Jerry Laboda sponsored by the TBE of the Jewish Sisterhood and have time Historical Society SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18 to “schmooze” with Sheila of SW Florida. 2:00 P.M. & Jerry and the
Temple Beth El filmmakers, Marina Dubin Center Berkovich and 16225 Winkler Rd. Alex Goldstein.
To donate to the Federation’s Annual Campaign, call 239.481.4449 or visit www.JewishFederationLCC.org.
9701 Commerce Center Court POSTMASTER: NONPROFIT ORG Fort Myers, Florida 33908 DATED RELIGIOUS U.S. POSTAGE NEWS ITEMS. PAID TIME SENSITIVE– FT. MYERS, FL PLEASE EXPEDITE! PERMIT NO. 175 DELIVER TO CURRENT RESIDENT OR L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 2 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION Program notes In this issue: hate the Jewish Film Festival. Now that I have kids! Check out the ad in this issue or go to www. 5 Our Community your attention – that is absolutely not true! I pjlibraryradio.com for more information. I love the film festival and it is my favorite event Jewish Pioneers, Sheila and Jerry Laboda 10 Jewish Interest of the year – which you probably know since I have The Jewish Federation and the Temple Beth El Sister- expressed the same sentiment in this column for the hood are joining together to present one of the films 16 Jewish Film Festival past four years. in the Jewish Pioneers series by the Jewish Historical 19 Israel & the Jewish World On Thursday, January 11, Society of Southwest Florida. A retrospective view of we will begin the Federation’s Jewish life in Lee County through the eyes of Jewish 20 Marketplace 22nd annual Jewish Film Festi- Pioneers Sheila and Jerry Laboda will be shown on val of Southwest Florida and Sunday, February 18 at 2:00 p.m. in the Dubin Center 24 Commentary my fifth. The excitement of of Temple Beth El. Sheila and Jerry will be on hand, 24 From the Bimah sharing the films that the com- as will Marina Berkovich and Alex Goldstein, who mittee has selected, the antici- wrote and produced the film. Desserts will be pro- 26 Focus on Youth pation of seeing old friends and vided by the TBE Sisterhood. The event is free and 28 Organizations welcoming new ones, and the open to the community. Leni Sack sincere appreciation for the Author event at Alliance for the Arts 30 Community Directory support of the sponsors and Come hear author Laura Albanese talk about her book the attendees all come together for me in this one big Stolen Beauty at the annual event co-sponsored by the 30 Temple News event. Federation and the Alliance for the Arts on Wednes- Two things to note this year: day, February 21 at 7:00 p.m. From the dawn of the Rozzi Osterman is not only a co-president of the 20th century to the devastation of World War II, this Federation, she is also an experienced documen- novel of love, war, art and family gives voice to two tary filmmaker and will be on hand to give some extraordinary women and brings to life the true story insights into her film Talia, which is part of the behind the creation and near destruction of Gustav double feature event on Tuesday, January 23. Klimt’s most remarkable paintings. If you are a lover Seven of the eleven movies being shown over the of art, a lover of Jewish history or just a lover of a ten evenings are in English. Only four films will good read, you won’t want to miss this event. Go on- have subtitles. Usually it is the other way around. line at www.artinlee.org to reserve a space. Space is All the information about the film festival, in- limited. cluding a ticket order form, can be found on pages Other events and programs 16-17. Please note the list of committee members, as Of course, the usual monthly events continue: senior well as the list of sponsors also on those pages. We lunches, book club, genealogy, Israeli dancing and owe all of them much thanks. Jewish War Veterans meetings. There is lots more happening over the next few Mellow Mah Jongg also continues every Tuesday months. Here are some highlights: from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m. But if you don’t know a PJ Library crack from a bam and think a soap is only what you Families with children ages two through eight are in- wash with, then you will want to come to the series of vited to a Tu B’Shevat program on Thursday, January six mah jongg lessons starting on Friday, January 19. 25 from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Temple Beth El. It is the There are only a couple spaces left, so sign up now. first in a series of four programs for young families to Just email or call me for more details. The cost is $30. come together for stories, music, and arts and crafts Our year is just beginning. There are many more
Jewish news published monthly by celebrating different Jewish holidays. Food to keep events still on tap, including our annual Holocaust Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties the little ones happy will also be provided. Zohar Ben Memorial Service on April 8 and a big Israel at 70 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, FL 33908 Hamu, Temple Judea’s shlicha from Israel, will lead celebration on April 15. You’ll be hearing more about (239) 481-4449 • Fax: (239) 481-0139 Online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org the programs. There is no cost to attend. RSVPs are those in the coming months. required. To reserve a space, please contact me at Be sure to read through each issue of L’CHAYIM January 2018 • Volume 40, Number 5 [email protected] or 239.481.4449 x3 . to find out what’s happening “Jewishly” throughout Co-Presidents: Rozzi Osterman • Brian Simon Speaking of PJ Library: They recently launched PJ Lee and Charlotte counties. I wish everyone a very Board: Paul Bartrop • Herb Fried • Carolyn Gora Library Radio, a free streaming music service for Happy and Healthy 2018. Jerry Greenfield • Keith Grossman • Andi Horowitz Charles Idelson • Linda Idelson • Marsha Kistler Sara Krivisky • Michele Laboda • JoAnn Lewin Barbara Siegel • Sylvia Simko • Sherri Zucker Stay in touch throughout the month. Executive Director: Alan Isaacs Program Director: Leni Sack Executive Assistant: Lori Ramos Sign up for the Federation’s e-blasts. Jewish Family Services: Jodi Cohen Editor/Designer: Ted Epstein (239) 249-0699 Advertising: Jim Lewin (239) 634-6923 Get the latest information on upcoming community events and cultural activities, L’CHAYIM invites correspondence on subjects of interest to Jewish people. Partisan political opinions will not be published, but opinions on subjects affecting the Jewish community are breaking news items, updates from Israel welcome. All inquiries regarding copy for L’CHAYIM should be directed to the editor. All news material must be very clearly and lots more. printed or typed (not in all-capital letters) and double-spaced. Electronic submissions encouraged. The editor reserves the right to edit for space and content. Photographs should be clear, black-and-white or color Send an email to [email protected] prints. If you wish a photograph returned, include a stamped, self-addressed envelope of appropriate size. The Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties disclaims responsibility or endorsement of the views expressed by the writers and claims by advertisers. FEBRUARY ISSUE EDITORIAL DEADLINE: Friday, January 5 Grow your business with L’CHAYIM.
Reach 5,000 local JEWISH FEDERATION Jewish residents FOOD PANTRY through this paper. Following is a list of staples always in need at the food pantry: For more information Peanut butter and jelly Pasta sauce (pasta, not needed) or to place an ad, call Jim Rice and beans Canned vegetables and fruits Cereal Canned meats at 239.634.6923 Condiments Toiletries for adults & children
or send an email to Gift cards to places like Publix, Walmart, Target, etc., as well as cash donations, are also appreciated. [email protected]. Jewish Family Services helps seniors, individuals and families with a variety of needs. L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 OUR FEDERATION Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 3
Leading supporters of Jewish Federation programs Program notes Senior Lunch Bunch update and services enjoy an evening with actor and author By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach Coordinator Stephen Tobolowsky hosted by FineMark Bank. ecember’s lunch was hosted he’s got great shtick. Temple Beth El by Temple Beth Shalom in will host the lunch, which will be spon- DCape Coral and the program sored by the Grandezza volunteers of featured Israeli shlicha Zohar Ben Estero. The Grandezza volunteers ex- Hamu. Zohar shared stories about her back- ground as well as her work at Temple Judea, where she teaches the children and teenagers about Israel, and serves as a liaison between the congregation and Israel. The lunch on Thurs- day, January 18 will be Stephen Tobolowsky charms the crowd (photos courtesy Mike Shapiro) filled with magic! That’s because we will be enter- tained by award-winning comedian and magician Stuart Rudnick. He’s funny, he’s Jewish and pressed an interest in supporting the Senior Lunch program and offered to sponsor the lunch as well as volunteer. The Federation is honored by their sup- port and generosity of spirit. The Senior Lunch Bunch program is an opportunity for people to come together and make new friends, visit Federation co-president Rozzi Osterman addresses the attendees with old friends, enjoy a program and, of course, eat! The monthly gathering is lively, people are welcoming, and we have a ‘buddy system’ for new folks so no one feels left out. Everyone truly cares about each other and there is al- ways a place at the table for you, so come on down. RSVP by Tuesday, January 16 if you would like to attend the lunch. Call me at 239.481.4449 x6 or email jodico- [email protected]. Please let me know if you will need a ride to the lunch and if it’s your first time attending. I look forward to seeing everyone soon so we can watch Stuart pull a rabbit out of his hat! Jewish FGCU students and Temple Judea shlicha Zohar Ben Hamu (2nd from right) were guests at the event
UPCOMING FEDERATION EVENTS 2018
JAN. 11- Jewish Film Festival - The Annual Jewish Film Festival of SW Florida F EB. 1 3 is proud to present another premier lineup of outstanding and highly diverse films that will excite, delight, enlighten and provoke our audience.
FEB. 21 Author Event at Alliance for the Arts - Laurie Lico Albanese’s book, “Stolen Beauty”, combines European Jewish historical fiction with art.
MAR. 13 Women’s Philanthropy/Lion of Judah - One of the original writers on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Susan Silver, will make us laugh and “kvell” as she talks about her search for a productive life, a re-connection to her Jewish roots and her deep involvement with Israel.
JEWISH FEDERATION APR. 08 Holocaust Memorial Service - This annual event is about honoring the memory of the victims of the Holocaust, as FOOD PANTRY well as fulfilling the promise to “never forget”.
Following is a list of staples always in need at the food pantry: APR. 15 Israel at 70 Fest - Hard to believe, but Israel is turning 70 years old! Join us as we celebrate Peanut butter and jelly Pasta sauce (pasta, not needed) a year of recognizing Israel’s innovative spirit Rice and beans Canned vegetables and fruits with a big birthday bash!
Cereal Canned meats Condiments Toiletries for adults & children STAY TUNED. MORE INFO TO FOLLOW! Gift cards to places like Publix, Walmart, Target, etc., as well as cash donations, are also appreciated. Jewish Family Services helps seniors, individuals and families with a variety of needs. L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 4 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION
The Jewish Federation Annual Campaign provides the resources to strengthen and enrich our Jewish community locally, in Israel and around the world. YOUR SUPPORT Sunday Promote Strengthen & enrich Honor/ Share your KINDNESS JEWISH COMMarchMUNITY 1st Remember MITZVAH A LOVED ONE
This year please consider making an additional campaign contribution in honor or in memory of a loved one. Because kindness is contagious we would like to highlight your generosity in L’CHAYIM and notify personally those whom you honor. You may choose how your generosity is noted and how we share your mitzvah with our community.
TRIBUTES How the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties Serves In memory of Herman Israel from Linda & Jeff Shuster and Henry Smernoff Local Jewish Education and Culture Community wide Jewish Education and Culture Programs for Each month, L’CHAYIM will list your Tributes. all ages including the Jewish Film Festival, Jewish Author Please send them to Lori Ramos Events, Israel Celebration, Jewish genealogy, Israeli folk at the Federation at [email protected]. dancing, social groups, etc. 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 Each Tuesday afternoon, an open session of Mah Jongg Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida to middle and high school students in the community. is held at the Jewish Federation.
Overseas Players must be at least advanced beginners, as no Funding to the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American lessons are given. Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) for full spectrum social services to Israel and Jewish communities in 60+ DAY: Tuesdays, 12:30~3:30 P.M. countries around the world. FEE: $1 per week 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. for more information call Individual life coaching and support services. Rona Strausberg at 239.949.9003 Local Emergency Services Food Pantry. Emergency financial assistance. Education and aid associated with natural disasters.
Local Community Services The Jewish Federation thanks our Support families of children with special needs. SAT preparatory classes for high school students. GENEROUS DONORS Volunteerism. Organizational Collaboration. Assessment and Planning.
Jewish Community Foundation INDIGENT FUND An endowment that ensures the long term financial base of Israeli Dancers Rhoda Miller charitable, social and educational programs in our community. Jack & Ellen Esformes Marcia Hanwit Needs based college scholarships and study scholarships in Linda & Jeff Shuster Sandi Sauls Israel. Henry Smernoff Robert & Bette Batson Projects and programs aimed at Jewish community enrichment. Gene & Andrea Sipe Marsha Weiner Adele Anish Beginner Mah Jongg Players
FOOD PANTRY Temple Beth El Ruth Lefberg Sara Krivisky Temple Judea Judy & Roger Satin Linda Shuster Shalom Life Center Don & Sandy Komito Bonnie Raitt Howard Silverman Southern Gulf Society of Health System Pharmacists Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel
Grants Available
The Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Grant is available through the Community Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. The grant may be used for travel to Israel to participate in programs that are volunteer or educational in nature. Our hope is that these programs will enhance Jewish knowledge and identity in preparation for participation in American Jewish life. This grant is for Jewish residents of either county who are 25 years old or younger and can demonstrate a financial need. Academic standing and community involvement may also be considered. For more information or an application, please visit our website at www.JewishFederationLCC.org or contact the Federation at 239-481-4449, ext. 4 or email [email protected]. Together we CAN Make a Difference! L’CHAYIM is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, committed advertisers and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 OUR COMMUNITY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 5
The Jewish Federation Annual Campaign provides the resources to Holocaust Museum update strengthen and enrich our Jewish community locally, in Israel and around the world. By Susan Suarez, Executive Director YOUR SUPPORT appy New Year! On behalf of U.S. to start a new life. at a brunch at the Hilton Naples on grandson of the late president, Dwight Sunday our Board of Directors, staff I am pleased to announce a new op- Sunday, January 21. Doors open at D. Eisenhower. The world owes an im- Promote Strengthen & enrich JEWISH COMMUNITY Hand dedicated volunteers, we portunity to support the Museum and its 10:30 a.m., with a buffet brunch starting mense gratitude to Dwight Eisenhower Honor/ Share your KINDNESS March 1st wish you and your families a very happy programs! The Legacy Society has been at 11:00 a.m. The short documentary because, in his capacity as Supreme Al- Remember MITZVAH and healthy 2018! created to celebrate friends who affirm Murray’s Mile will be premiered at the lied Commander in Europe, he ordered A LOVED ONE Thanks to all who made our sold-out their commitment to our Museum, its event. Honorary Chair for the event is that the existence of the newly-liberated event, The Luncheon, a huge success. mission and programs through their will Mayor Bill Barnett. For more informa- concentration camps be recorded for Net proceeds of or other planned gift. Your generosity tion, please call 239.566.1771 or email history so that no one would say that the event support demonstrates an investment in our fu- [email protected]. it never happened. The event will also This year please consider making an additional campaign contribution in honor or in memory of a loved one. the Museum’s Ed- ture. Gifts from Legacy Society mem- Group tours of the Museum are a honor the Golden Gate Middle School Because kindness is contagious we would like to highlight your generosity in L’CHAYIM and notify personally those whom ucation programs. bers will offer operating or endowment great way to get together with friends or class which 20 years ago created the you honor. You may choose how your generosity is noted and how we share your mitzvah with our community. The event, held support to provide exhibits, educational a club for an educational and inspiring “Out of the Ashes” project on the Ho- December 15 at programs, artifact conservation, Mu- experience. For more information or to locaust with their teachers David Bell The Ritz-Carlton seum admission for students and more. schedule a tour, call Museum Education and Michelle Lee. They made it their Beach Resort in The most common way to make a legacy Assistant David Nelson at 239.263.9200 mission to remember and share the les- Naples, featured gift is to remember the Museum in your x205. sons of the Holocaust with their family, Susan the national debut will through a bequest. You can leave a Please mark your calendars and schoolmates and friends. They vowed Suarez performance of In specific sum of money or a percentage join us on Monday, March 5 for the to tell their own children when the time Flight. The short inspirational play is of the remainder of your estate. Other Triumph 2018 Reception and Dinner. came, carrying on the work General based on the childhood experiences options include naming the Museum as a We are so pleased to have as this year’s Eisenhower started. of Holocaust survivor and Museum partial or full beneficiary of a retirement featured speaker, David Eisenhower. We thank you for your support of speaker Sabine van Dam. It was writ- plan or life insurance policy. Be sure to Mr. Eisenhower is an historian, Director our mission. We have an exciting lineup ten by Hester Kamin, and produced in include the full name of the Museum in of the Institute for Public Service at the of programs scheduled in 2018, and partnership with Gulfshore Playhouse. your will or gift documents: The Holo- Annenberg Public Policy Center, and hope to see you at the Museum! In Flight will be presented in local caust Museum & Education Center of schools as part of the Museum’s Educa- Southwest Florida. tion programming this year. Designed Saturday, January 27 is Internation- 21st Bi-Annual HotWorks.org to fit within a typical classroom period, al Holocaust Remembrance Day. Please ™ the professionally-acted play provides visit www.holocaustmuseumswfl.org students with an opportunity to see how for information on programming to Estero Fine Art Show our choices and actions define us. mark the commemoration. The Museum January 6 & 7, 2018 Our new exhibit, “Resettling and is the sponsor for the January “Wake Up Gulf Coast Town Center Rebuilding: The Displaced Persons in Naples” event sponsored by the Greater Post-War Europe,” will be on display Naples Chamber of Commerce at the from January 9 through May 30. It ex- Hilton Naples on Wednesday, January plores the creation and use of Displaced 10 at 7:30 a.m. Persons camps which were set up by The 6th Annual Elliott Katz Holo- the Allies during post-war Occupation. caust Lecture Series begins Thursday, The DP camps were an important part January 11 at 10:00 a.m. at the Hodges of the new start in life for millions of University Naples campus. Reserva- people displaced by the war. The Jewish tions are required for each of the six population in particular was in need of lectures in the series which ends March help. Reduced because of the persecu- 22. The cost is $12 per lecture or $60 tion during the Holocaust to one-third of for the series. Payments and reservations their pre-war population, they incredibly are being handled directly by Hodges, still faced the anti-Semitism of their and may be made online at http://www. neighbors when they returned to their hodges.edu/cll/lecture_series.aspx. Or, home countries. Several of the artifacts you may contact April May at Hodges in the exhibit are from local residents at 239.598.6143 or [email protected]. and Museum volunteers. They belong The Jewish Historical Society of to families who were impacted by DP Southwest Florida will honor former camps and subsequently settled in the Museum Co-President Murray Hendel Hadassah celebrates Israel’s 70th birthday By Arlene Yedid he Collier/Lee Chapter of Ha- Ein Karem in Jerusalem would grow dassah is celebrating the 70th into a world-class medical organization, Tbirthday of Israel with a special instrumental in saving and improving brunch at the Hilton Naples on Sunday, lives throughout Israel, the Middle East February 25 at the from 10:00 a.m. to and the world? In times of internation- 1:30 p.m. al crisis, this medical organization has “Hadassah Celebrates Israel’s 70th provided critical help to such coun- Birthday” presents a sumptuous brunch tries as Haiti, Darfur, Kenya, Ethiopia, including Israeli delicacies. Exciting Thailand and the Philippines. musical performances will feature two The Hadassah Medical Organiza- talented performers singing popular tion has created outstanding research Israeli music – Temple Shalom Cantor programs such as Hadassah Human Donna Azu and Jane Galler, Cantorial Embryonic Stem Cell Research Cen- Soloist of Naples Jewish Congregation. ter, one of the most advanced embry- The Fort Myers Shalom Dancers will onic stem cell research programs in the present Israeli dances, inviting guests world. It leads the way with advance- to participate in the joyful celebration. ments in ALS, breast and colon cancer, Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel The Hilton is offering complimentary diabetes, macular degeneration, mul- valet parking. The cost is $70 per per- tiple sclerosis, AIDS, Parkinson’s dis- Grants Available son for this Hadassah benefit, which ease and cardiac health. will be an event to remember, befitting Another project is Youth Aliyah,
th the awe-inspiring 70 birthday of Is- which has saved the lives of disadvan-
rael! taged and at-risk children by provid- HotWorks.org Facebook.com/hotworksartshows L. Frederick Wiesener, Clay
The Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Grant is available through Israel’s remarkable growth has ing housing, education and training in the Community Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Lee been assisted by Hadassah Israeli pro- three Hadassah-supported Youth Ali- and Charlotte Counties. The grant may be used for travel to grams and institutions. yah villages. Voted Top 100 Juried Art Shows in the Country Israel to participate in programs that are volunteer or In the early days of Palestine, Hen- “Hadassah Celebrates Israel’s 70th 3 Years in a Row! educational in nature. Our hope is that these programs will rietta Szold, the American founder of Birthday” is a benefit for the Collier/ Gulf Coast Town Center • I-75 & Alico Rd/Exit #128 enhance Jewish knowledge and identity in preparation for Hadassah, brought her skills as a nurse Lee Chapter of Hadassah for the Ha- Saturday & Sunday, 10am-5pm daily ~ Plenty of onsite parking participation in American Jewish life. This grant is for Jewish to a scarcely populated land comprised dassah Medical Organization and the Kids! Call for Entries - Youth Art Competition for grades K-8 or 5-13 residents of either county who are 25 years old or younger of swamp and desert. She was instru- work of Hadassah. The community is ™ and can demonstrate a financial need. Academic standing mental in establishing Israeli medical invited to this gala event. For informa- See Art, Love Art, Buy Art! See You There! and community involvement may also be considered. For and educational projects and facilities. tion, contact event chair Lee Henson Shining a light on the people of Southwest Florida and the arts. more information or an application, please visit our website at Who would have dreamed that one day at 239.495.7866 or lhenson13@gmail. NEWS MAGAZINES www.JewishFederationLCC.org or contact the Federation at Hadassah Hospitals at Mt. Scopus and com. 239-481-4449, ext. 4 or email [email protected]. L’CHAYIM is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, committed advertisers and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 6 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR COMMUNITY
BIRTHS Community Free Synagogue With abundant gratitude to God, Rabbi Nicole Luna and Joe Bord are over- events and programs joyed to announce the safe arrival of their new daughter, Iris Luna-Bord. Born Israel Pilgrimage their synagogue gets a strict new rabbi Saturday, November 18 at 10:22 p.m.; 8 lbs., 7 oz., 21 inches. The first Community Free Synagogue who preaches rigid gender roles. The 2018 Israel Pilgrimage informational ladies soon decide to fight back against meeting will be held at 10:30 a.m. on BAR MITZVAH Sunday, January 7 in the congrega- Bryan Dworkin, son of Michael and Kira Dworkin, brother of Shauna, grand- tion’s Community Hall, 10868 Metro son of Al and Eileen Dworkin and Mickie and Larry Sonin, was called to the Parkway, Fort Myers. Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, December 2 at Temple Beth El. The synagogue’s 6th Israel tour, Bryan is a seventh-grader at Cypress Lake Middle School where he excels led by Rabbi Bruce Diamond, is from in math, science, theater and computers. This year he will be earning his certi- June 4-15. Hailed as “the experience fication for Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. of a lifetime” by its participants, this Taking after his sister with her love of animals, Bryan will be working with deeply-moving and highly-informative his ultra-traditionalist beliefs, while the Humane Society to care for rescued pets and help them find good homes. tour is a mixture of history, faith and raising money to repair the “women’s In addition to swimming with Swim Florida, Bryan loves to be goofy and current events. balcony” in the synagogue. make people laugh, and is also an avid fan of Pokemon (the card game). He The “pilgrims” will stay in 4-star The Hebrew name of the film, Yis- also spends lots of time playing video games (like most 13-year-old boys), deluxe accommodations, premiere mah Hatani, comes from a traditional cards and board games. Kibbutz Guest Resorts, and tour in Sephardic wedding song, since the set- Bryan would like to thank his friends and family for helping him to achieve their own luxury Wi-Fi-equipped bus, ting of the story is an Israeli Sephardic this important stepping stone in his Jewish life. Bryan thanks Morah Dale enjoying sumptuous Israeli buffet community. Cohen for all of her guidance and wonderful motivation and spirit. Thank you, breakfasts, several gourmet dinners, Mini-Course on “American anti- Rabbi Luna. Also thanks to all of his Hebrew school teachers who put up with and magnificent welcome and farewell Semitism between the World Wars” him through this wonderful experience. banquets. The Pilgrimage is also for- The next installment of The Commu- tunate to once again secure one of Is- nity Free Synagogue’s “Institute of rael’s top professional guides, Colonel Adult Jewish Education” starts takes NACHES Yoram Black. place from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Sun- Come find out more about this day, January 28, and the continues the Asher Pincus, son of Suzanne and David Pincus, extraordinary Israel adventure at the following two Sundays in the congre- learns about the tallit and tefillin in preparation for informational meeting. The gation’s Community his Bar Mitzvah celebration at The Community Free cost of the tour package is Hall. Synagogue. $2,835 plus air. Taught by FGCU “Brown Bag Movie Night” Adjunct Professor of The Israel hit The Women’s American History Jes- Balcony will be shown at sica Evers, Associate The Community Free Syna- Director of the uni- gogue’s Thursday, January 11 versity’s Center for Congratulations to Brian Berger, son of Commu- “Brown Bag Movie Night” Judaic, Holocaust and nity Free Synagogue participants Miriam and Marvin starting at 6:30 p.m. in the Genocide Studies, the Berger, who was awarded an Outstanding Citizen Ci- congregation’s Community course will examine tation by the Town of Hempstead, New York, for his Hall. Pack a dinner; compli- Jessica Evers a broad-based Ameri- dedicated service to Temple Hillel of North Wood- mentary soft drinks are served. can anti-Semitism that reached into the mere. Brian, who, when in town, regularly join his According to Rotten Tomatoes, highest echelons of government, media parents at C.F.S. Sabbath Torah Study, reads Torah and which gave the film a Fresh 96%: The and business. helps conduct worship at Temple Hillel. women in an Orthodox Jewish com- All Community Free Synagogue munity in Jerusalem are appalled when events are free and open to the public.
Each month, L’CHAYIM will list your Life Cycle events “Communication: Its Art – births, B’nai Mitzvah, engagements, weddings, and Soul” – new JLI course he rise of the Internet, mobile by the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute anniversaries and obituaries. For B’nai Mitzvah, phones and social media has presented by Rabbi Yitzchok Minkow- please include up to 200 words about your child. Tcompletely changed the way we icz at Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest relate, interact and communicate with Florida, 5620 Winkler Road, Fort My- Submit your events to [email protected]. one another – and it’s high time we re- ers. Photos are appreciated; please e-mail as JPGs at 300dpi. claim this lost art. The six-week day course begins Communication is the fabric of Thursday, January 18 from 12:30 society and the driver of every facet to 2:00 p.m. The six-week evening of our lives – think work, family and course begins the same day from 7:30 PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS friends. to 9:00 p.m. The cost of $99 includes Judaism offers timeless, rare and textbooks. For more information or to powerful insights into communication register, call 239.433.7708 or email WHO SUPPORT OUR FEDERATION – life’s most important skill – that are [email protected]. both clarifying and astoundingly fasci- JLI is a project of Chabad Lubavitch & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE. nating! of Southwest Florida and sponsored by Come to a new six-week course Dr. Gary and Marlene Price. This month’s Jewish Prisoner Outreach – advertisers help us make a difference This publication is brought to you each month thanks to the support By Sid Kleiner of our advertisers. Please be sure to use their products and services, ost folks, synagogues and or- their Jewish heritage typically become and mention that you found them in L’CHAYIM. ganizations are unaware that good, tax-paying citizens. But we need Advanced Pain Management....32 Lee Lighting...... 20 Mthere’s a long-established, the tools that help keep our clients grow- Alliance Financial Group...... 21 Living Happily Counseling...... 21 non-profit, totally volunteer-driven ing in the faith. 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We have one or two Chumashim Sid Kleiner, President Gulf Coast Orthodontics...... 12 Taschner Periodontics...... 23 and Tanakhim left on our shelves and all Beth Tikvah Jewish Prisoner Outreach Hadassah...... 11 Temple Judea...... 10 of our donated tefillin have been mailed. Serving Jewish Inmates Dr. David Heligman...... 19 Top of the Line Concierge...... 21 Our mailbox brims over with requests & Their Loved Ones for print and non-print Judaica. 10188 Winterview Dr., Naples, FL 34109 Henderson Franklin...... 20 Bob Vinikoor, Realtor®...... 21 ® Contemplate our more than 30 years 239.566.7702 ~ [email protected] Higginson Tax & Accounting....20 Adrienne Weiner, Realtor ...... 21 of outreach to those who have strayed (Not affiliated with Beth Tikvah syna- ® Hodges Funeral Home...... 22 Paul Weinstein, CFP ...... 20 when we say that those who embrace gogue of Naples) L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 OUR COMMUNITY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 7 Community Free Synagogue The gem of Southwest Florida’s art events By Tom Hall events and programs ot Works’ Estero Fine Art this body of Shanas’ work expresses For Shanas, wire mesh is an obvi- their synagogue gets a strict new rabbi Show returns to its new home not just dance steps or poses, but the ous choice of medium because its trans- who preaches rigid gender roles. The at Gulf Coast Town Center on inner emotion that gives impetus to the lucence and transparency infuse an air ladies soon decide to fight back againstH Saturday and Sunday, January 6-7. Or- flow, harmonic interdependence and of simplicity and lightness to gestures ganized by Hot Works, LLC and con- kinesthesia that characterizes dancers and movement she strives to capture in sistently voted a top-100 juried art fair, at the moment when legato supersedes her sculptural work. But the metal’s du- this show includes a select group of cognition. rability also ensures its longevity. “The artists typically not featured anywhere In her In Two’s series, Shanas finds hardness of the metal promises that else. Among this year’s exhibitors is ways to use metal and modeling to the moment captured continues well metal screen sculptor Bonnie Shanas. convey the subtle little ways that lovers beyond its fragment of time,” Bonnie Shanas’ art was shaped by inten- observes. sive study in the studio classes of Israe- Most artists shy away from unfor- Bonnie Shanas his ultra-traditionalist beliefs, whileli artist No’am Douieb and through a giving media like wire mesh. That qual- studies carried her into a life in the cor- raising money to repair the “women’s mentorship by sculptor Shulamit Har- ity is another feature that attracts Sha- porate world. But she closed her office balcony” in the synagogue. tal. From the former, Shanas developed nas to the medium. “While most forms doors in 2006 to answer the call of ar- The Hebrew name of the film, Yis-an unerring eye for figurative studies. of sculpture are additive or reductive, tistic creativity, and since returning to mah Hatani, comes from a traditionalFrom Hartal, Bonnie acquired the skill I enjoy the challenge of breathing life the United States in 2009, she has con- Sephardic wedding song, since the set-to use mesh sculpting to capture the into a sheet of steel wire mesh, where tinued to develop her talents and estab- ting of the story is an Israeli Sephardichuman form. no material can be added or removed, lish a reputation as an accomplished community. “As an artist, I find myself most and no crease erased.” metal sculptor. Mini-Course on “American anti- intrigued by the study of the human Today, Bonnie exhibits in both ju- Semitism between the World Wars” form,” Shanas remarks. “I am as much ried and invitational exhibits and na- The next installment of The Commu-inspired by dance and movement as I tional shows. Not surprisingly, she has nity Free Synagogue’s “Institute ofam by the subtleties and simplicity of won numerous awards and honorable Adult Jewish Education” starts takesunspoken gestures. Together these com- mentions. Over the past five years, she place from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Sun-pose a universal language which I at- has also participated in a number of day, January 28, and the continues thetempt to instill and imbue in my work.” connect, from the touch of their finger- art residencies in France and Poland, following two Sundays in the congre- In fact, Shanas’ Dancers collection tips to the clench of their hands as their collaborating with internationally-ac- gation’s Communitybelies both a love of dance and fascina- bodies align. The fact that these pieces claimed artists on themed exhibits. Hall. tion for bodies in movement. With titles are typically monotone adds to their Shanas’ work can be found in pub- Taught by FGCU such as The Dance Within, The Melody focus and augments their mesmerizing lic installations in France, Poland and Adjunct Professor ofWithin and Just a Small Dance Away, allure. the United States as well as private col- American History Jes- lections here and in England and Aus- sica Evers, Associate Studying family history brings more than just historical knowledge, tralia. You can acquire one for your Director of the uni- it builds relationships. Learning the stories behind names and dates own collection at the Estero Fine Art versity’s Center for teaches a personal history that explains more than just how each Show. You will find the show outdoors Judaic, Holocaust and person came to be. EVERYONE WELCOME. at the Gulf Coast Town Center. The Genocide Studies, the Bonnie’s path to a career in art was Estero Fine Art Show is produced by course will examine Jewish Genealogy SIG (Special Interest Group) rather circuitous. A New Jersey native, Hot Works, which has been producing a broad-based Ameri- Next meeting: Thursday, January 11 her family relocated to Israel when she quality, juried, perennially top-100 art can anti-Semitism that reached into the 10:00 11:30 a.m. was still very young. In school, her fairs and festivals since 2003. highest echelons of government, media LEARN HOW TO BEGIN RESEARCH INTO YOUR FAMILY’S HISTORY and business. OR GET HELP FINDING NEW STRATEGIES TO ENHANCE THE SEARCH For more information, please contact Executive Director YOU HAVE ALREADY STARTED. All Community Free Synagogue and Producer Patty Narozny at 941.755.3088 events are free and open to the public. There is no cost to attend.RSVP is a must to Arthur at [email protected] Meetings are held at the Jewish Federation ● 9701 Commerce Center Ct. ● Fort Myers 33908 or [email protected], or visit www.hotworks.org. “Communication: Its Art and Soul” – new JLI course by the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute presented by Rabbi Yitzchok Minkow- icz at Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida, 5620 Winkler Road, Fort My- ers. The six-week day course begins Thursday, January 18 from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. The six-week evening course begins the same day from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. The cost of $99 includes textbooks. For more information or to register, call 239.433.7708 or email [email protected]. JLI is a project of Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida and sponsored by Dr. Gary and Marlene Price. Jewish Prisoner Outreach – help us make a difference L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 8 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR COMMUNITY Transform your world with ART ee a dazzling array of artwork at time to enjoy our talented high school ArtFest Fort Myers on Saturday artists’ work at the Art Under 20 Ex- Sand Sunday, February 3-4, with hibit and Competition, and prepare an Opening Night on Friday, February to be amazed as students create large 2. Nationally ranked for the quality of street paintings in the Chalk Block. Al- the artists, this fine art festival at the ways a crowd-pleaser, the Publix Art downtown Fort Myers waterfront is a Yard and Youth Stage are full of oppor- true local favorite. tunities for children of all ages to join Membership in the VIP Experi- us in creating a Public Art piece, while ence at ArtFest Fort Myers guarantees enjoying a variety of great performanc- and attending openings and exhibits your reserved parking, admission to es. And be sure to visit the art festival’s that featured his mother’s paintings. the Friday Night Opening VIP Tent Dining Galleries, where delicious culi- Stephen’s Mixed Media 3-D work with delicious food and drinks, plus nary fare from around the world is the combines found and antique objects to unlimited weekend access to the VIP norm. create sculptural and fanciful fish. Tent with breakfast treats, a delight- Meet a few of the artists who will Woodworker Steven B. Levine ful lunch and beverages all weekend be exhibiting at ArtFest Fort Myers this was interested in creating from an ear- years, using the wheel thrown vessel long. The VIP Experience is $125 per February: ly age, but a career as an artist/crafts- as his canvas and the unique multiple person and your support contributes to Stephen Palmer’s Jewish grand- man didn’t occur to him until his path firing process as his paint brush. The the year-round ArtFest Fort Myers’ art parents emigrated from Russia to Los crossed that of George Segal, the 20th hues and textures he creates are truly education outreach programs. Angeles and that is where his mother century sculptor known for his iconic unique. Be sure to bring the entire family was born. His artistic bent comes from human figures created from plaster By sharing his experiences through to this fun and free outdoor fine art fes- both parents, who were poets, although bandages. As a high school-aged Boy his paintings, Dan Bondroff draws theMonthly Shabbat services at tival, where the work of over 200 pro- he vividly remembers joining his Scout, it was Steven’s good fortune viewer into his story. “I see my paint- fessional artists are showcased. Take mother on plein air painting outings to earn a merit badge in art with the ings like a movie director sees theBrookdale Independent Living famous George Segal as his mentor. characters in his/her films. Like my Thank you to these sponsors who help Steven explains, “I identified with Mr. he weekend I moved to Fort Segal immediately. He was Jewish Myers, singer Neshama Carle- to ensure the continuity of the and his parents emigrated from East- bach, who I met online when ern Europe as did my grandparents. T . asking a question about purchasing her Jewish Film Festival of Southwest Florida music, was the Artist-in-Residence at Temple Shalom in Naples. I would fi- paintings, most films have a strongnally get to meet my new friend! The PRINCIPAL SPONSORS: lead character, supporting roles andsanctuary was packed at Neshama’s extras. My work is all about escape, in- Advanced Pain Management and Spine Specialists Saturday night concert and we all sang volving taking real life and using imag- Dr. Jonathan Daitch and Dr. Michael Frey together with voices that were in tune, ination as the vehicle for the journey.” out of tune, and that rose up beyond the Bondroff hopes to take us to a magicalroof. I had just moved to town, yet by PRODUCERS: place through his artwork. the end of the evening I felt complete- For more information, visit www. Dr. Brian and Sara Krivisky He became an instant role model, and ly ensconced in community. There is working with him was an experience ArtFestFortMyers.com - Like Us on something about singing together that I’ll never forget. I often wonder if Facebook - Connect with us on Linked-connects people more quickly than Mr. Segal ever guessed how much he in - Tag us #artfestfm. anything else, except laughter. DIRECTORS: Martha & John Wolf influenced this one young man.” For the past year and a half, the Barry Bernstein, ceramic artist, residents at Brookdale Independent never dreamed that the ballroom danc- Living on College Parkway in Fort
ing lessons of his youth (Says Ber- Myers have been gathering for the nstein, “All the better to dance with Shabbat service the first Friday of the SCREENWRITERS: Sylvia & Paul Simko mother at my Bar Mitzvah…”) would month. Since my father is a resident Reeva & Ian Shaffer help to form his artistic ethic. Those there, I have had the privilege of join- Barbara & Barry Epstein lessons, emphasizing balance, strong ing the group as we recite the prayers Lin & Ron Klein form, movement, beauty and grace, over the candles, wine and challah, and Zelda Dubin Philanthropic Memorial Fund are the same traits that he uses when Carol & Irwin Friedman creating his clay vessels. Bernstein has been creating Raku pottery for over 35 Correction: Gerald Ziedenberg’s first evening lecture has been moved to Tuesday,
Helene & Jorge Glocer Linda & Charles Idelson January 9 instead of Monday, January 8. All other lectures will be on Monday evenings as announced.
Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist of Florida Dr. Howard Barrow
FILM STARS: Andrea & Milton Goodman Judi & Richard H. Davis SENIOR OUTREACH PROGRAM Shirley & Byron Frank Marsha & Mike Kistler Harriet & Alan Josephson Cheryl & Michael Goldstein JoAnn & Jim Lewin Linda & Jeff Shuster Lynda & Michael Rubenstein
FESTIVAL FRIENDS: Carolyn Gora Come out for lunch, see familiar faces and meet new friends at our Thank you to Signarama for donation of the film festival banner. monthly senior lunches. UPCOMING DATES:
Thursday, January 18th, 12 PM sing Shabbat songs, including “Sha- Temple Beth El Thank you to Regal Entertainment Group for hosting our 16225 Winkler Rd., Fort Myers lom Aleichem,” “Oseh Shalom” and Annual Jewish Film Festival of Southwest Florida. (rsvp by Jan. 15th) “Hineh Mah Tov.” It’s a joyous gather- ing and a chance for everyone to share Thursday, February 22nd, 12 PM simchas and good news, as well as to Community Free Synagogue sing the the prayer for healing for our 10868 Metro Pkwy., Fort Myers (rsvp by Feb. 19th)
Thanks to the film festival committee who selected this year’s films: Let us know if you will be driving or Sara Krivisky, chair if you would like a volunteer to pick Susie Ferkel, Helene Glocer, Claire Goldhagen, Carolyn Gora, you up. RSVP to: Jodi Cohen Jan Klein, Elissa Grossman, Irwin Kash, and Lynn Talone 239-481-4449, #6 or [email protected] SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL OUR ATTENDEES for helping to make our festival a success each year.
L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 OUR COMMUNITY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 9 “Behind Enemy Lines: The True Story of a Jewish Spy in Nazi Germany” arthe Cohn was born in sympathetic to her ‘plight,’ thereby ob- in Palos Verdes, California, and travels Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Metz, France in 1920. She taining critical information for the Al- internationally, sharing her remarkable Village. Chabad’s continued growth Mwas a devoutly religious lied commanders. story. and expansion serving the local com- Jewish woman living across the Ger- When at age 80, Cohn was award- “It is rare that we have the oppor- munity is a true testament to the sur- man border in France, when Hitler ed France’s highest military honor, the tunity in our lifetime to meet a heroine vival of the Jewish people. rose to power. As the Nazi-occupation Medaille Militaire, not even her chil- the likes of Marthe Cohn,” said Rabbi This event will feature a VIP Cock- escalated, Marthe’s sister was sent to dren knew to what extent this modest Yossi Labkowski, director of Chabad tail Reception followed by dinner and Auschwitz while her family fled to the woman faced death daily to defeat the of Cape Coral. “With the passing of music. You will have the opportunity to South of France. Nazi empire. At its heart, this remark- time, the possibility to hear these sto- meet Marthe Cohn, purchase her book Marthe chose to fight back, and able story is the tale of an ordinary hu- ries firsthand grows smaller and small- and have it autographed. joined the intelligence service of the man being who, under extraordinary er. I encourage our community to come This event is open to the entire First French Army. Utilizing her per- circumstances, became the hero her hear this remarkable woman tell her community. For additional informa- fect German accent and “Aryan” ap- country needed her to be. incredible story of courage and faith.” tion and to purchase tickets visit www. pearance, Marthe posed as a German In 2002, Marthe penned her mem- Marthe Cohn will be the featured ChabadCape.com or call the Chabad nurse desperately trying to obtain word oir, Behind Enemy Lines: The True speaker at Chabad’s Annual Gala Din- Jewish Center at 239.963.4770. of a fictional fiancé. She traveled the Story of a French Jewish Spy in Nazi ner on Wednesday, February 7 at the countryside and approached troops Germany. She lives with her husband Alon Nechushtan and his Monthly Shabbat services at Jazz Trio at Temple Judea Brookdale Independent Living lon Nechushtan, a jazz pianist Alon has written for ensembles and By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach Coordinator raised and trained in Israel (Je- orchestras around the world, includ- he weekend I moved to Fort friends and relatives. rusalem Academy of Music ing the Tel Aviv Soloist Orchestra, the Myers, singer Neshama Carle- We’ve had several guests, includ- A and Dance, formerly Rubin Academy), New England Conservatory Compos- Tbach, who I met online when ing Lawrence Dermer, who played will play at Temple Judea on Sunday, ers’ Orchestra, the BMI Jazz Orchestra asking a question about purchasing her piano and led the services for the first February 4 at 4:30 p.m. and the Yokohama Festival Orchestra. music, was the Artist-in-Residence at three months; Irwin Lewin, who ac- Since moving to New York in All About Jazz magazine called this Temple Shalom in Naples. I would fi- companied us on classical guitar; Rab- 2003, Alon has performed at Carnegie nally get to meet my new friend! The bi Marc Sack and Rabbi Nicole Luna, Hall, Jazz @Lincoln Center, Central sanctuary was packed at Neshama’s who each gave a talk about the weekly Park Stage, The Blue Note Jazz Club Saturday night concert and we all sang Torah portion. We’ve also had guests and the Kennedy Center, either as band together with voices that were in tune, from Temple Judea and Brookdale talk leader or as an in-demand sideman. out of tune, and that rose up beyond the about the Torah portion and lead dis- In October 2015, the Kennedy Center roof. I had just moved to town, yet by cussions about how the topic relates to commissioned from Alon a new piece the end of the evening I felt complete- all of us. for the Billy Strayhorn Centennial ly ensconced in community. There is In December, Cantor Bessman Celebration. In 2017, the Smithsonian something about singing together that from Temple Beth El accompanied Museum commissioned from him a widely-published composer and per- connects people more quickly than us on piano and was kind enough to program of lesser-known compositions former “a fantastic pianist-composer anything else, except laughter. play a song by himself, upon request by Thelonious Monk. with abundant chemistry and bound- For the past year and a half, the by one of the residents. Randi Kashi Fascinated with experimenting less eclecticism.” residents at Brookdale Independent from Temple Beth El will be joining with both Klezmer (Eastern European) This performance is open to the Living on College Parkway in Fort the group as the musical accompanist and Sephardic and Middle Eastern mu- public. The recommended donation is Myers have been gathering for the in the future. It is truly the music that sic, Alon founded the Talat ensemble, $10. Shabbat service the first Friday of the brings the Shabbat service to life. recording the CD “The Growl.” month. Since my father is a resident The Brookdale residents are so ap- there, I have had the privilege of join- preciative of the Shabbat service, and ing the group as we recite the prayers the staff has been wonderful as well. over the candles, wine and challah, and Some non-Jewish residents join us, as well as some of the staff when they’re able to. Ear- ly on, community member Malka Forschner made lit- tle challahs for everyone. I’ve made chocolate cov- ered matzoh for Pesach, hamantaschen for Purim, and challahs for the group as well. Harvey Cohen ends every gathering with February 3 & 4 10am-5pm what he refers to as “lev- Edwards Drive ity,” and tells a few jokes. Downtown Fort Myers Riverfront What would a gathering of Jews be without food Join us or laughter? At the end of December’s Shabbat Friday Feb. 2 6pm service I heard someone Opening Night Festivities say, “You know, we didn’t Visit our website for VIP upgrades! have this before, but now
it’s so good that we do.” I Enjoy and purchase some of the best The Jewish Federa- artwork exhibited anywhere in Florida! tion of Lee and Charlotte I 200 nationally known artists Counties helps to sponsor sing Shabbat songs, including “Sha- the Brookdale Shabbat service. If you I Many artists not frequently lom Aleichem,” “Oseh Shalom” and are interested in volunteering for or seen in Southwest Florida “Hineh Mah Tov.” It’s a joyous gather- creating an opportunity like this in your Artist I Rasa Saldaitus Kid’s Activities ing and a chance for everyone to share community, I would love to talk with Paining simchas and good news, as well as to you. Please contact me at 239.481.4449 I Food & Entertainment sing the the prayer for healing for our x6 or [email protected].
FREE ADMISSION & EASY PARKING!
Artist Jonathan Milton Metal ArtFestFortMyers.com L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 10 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST January 1943 in the Warsaw Ghetto Stars of David By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist eventy-five years ago this month, or Jewish Fighting Organization, on July weapons and training. Four days later, they stopped the de-Editor’s note: Persons in BOLD CAPS are deemed by Nate Bloom to in January 1943, the Jews of the 28, 1942. They issued a proclamation In the meantime, the ŻOB prepared portation altogether – at least for the be Jewish for the purpose of the column. Persons identified as Jewish SWarsaw Ghetto embarked upon a calling on the ghetto residents not to for the next onslaught by the Germans. time being. have at least one Jewish parent and were not raised in a faith other than course of action which Nazi Germany go to the trains when ordered to do so. On December 22, 1942, Zuckerman, One of the Jewish leaders in this Judaism – and don’t identify with a faith other than Judaism as an adult. Converts considered impossible: they took up While the deportations were tak- Miriem (Gole) Mire and Adolf Liebes- first expression of armed resistance into Judaism, of course, are also identified as Jewish. arms and, for the first time, fought back ing place, one member of Hashomer kind were sent by the ŻOB to Kraków the ghetto was a young woman, Tova Five-Star Recommendation in an attempt to stop the Nazis from Hatzair, 23-year-old Mordecai An- to meet with resistance fighters there. (Tosia) Altman. Directly involved in The eight-episode premiere season of achieving their murderous aims. ielewicz, had escaped to southwest While in the city, they took part in an the fighting, she, along with several The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is now Through the summer of 1942, the Poland on an underground mission to attack on a café that was frequented by others, was captured and taken to the streaming on Amazon. Any Amazon Germans deported or organize other branches of his move- the SS and the Gestapo. Liebskind was Umschlagplatz (collection point for de- Prime member can watch Amazon origi- executed more than ment, but upon returning to Warsaw killed. There is debate regarding Gole’s portation). She managed to escape with nal series, like Maisel, for free. Rarely 300,000 Jews from he found the ghetto devastated. He, fate. Some say she was killed soon af- the aid of a Jewish ghetto policeman has there been so much Jewish content the Warsaw Ghetto. and others, knowing from the outset terwards; others assert she played a part acting on behalf of Hashomer Hatzair. in a “regular” TV series, so it’s worth During a two-and- that they could not defeat the Nazi war in the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising in the Placed in charge of maintaining contact binge-watching when you can. a-half-month wave machine, now decided to resist any spring of 1943. Zuckerman, although with ŻOB members outside the ghetto, The first episode (free for all on- of deportations to further deportations from the ghetto. In shot in the leg, managed to escape and she then spent a large part of her time line) is good, but some Jewish details Treblinka, from July November 1942, members of the ŻOB return to Warsaw. on the Aryan side, but, always prepared are confused (like calling the break- 22 to September elected Anielewicz as their leader, and Once back, he then became the un- to fight, returned whenever she heard of Dr. Paul the-fast dinner “Yom Kippur dinner”). Bartrop 12, 1942 – a period preparations started for a defense of official armorer of the ŻOB. He negoti- an impending roundup. Forgive the creator, AMY SHERMAN- known to the Germans as “Gross-Aktion the ghetto whenever the next wave of ated through contacts he had made with Shocked that the Jews would arm PALLADINO, 51 (Gilmore Girls). Warschau” (General Action Warsaw) – deportations should begin. external resistance groups, attempting to themselves and fight another round of Her mother wasn’t Jewish and she was it was intended that this would end the Most of the more senior members of procure rifles, pistols, ammunition and deportations, the Germans returned in raised “Jewish light” and gets some Jewish presence in Warsaw. On average, the Jewish communal leadership in the grenades. These were smuggled into the force in April to liquidate the ghetto “Jewish stuff” a bit wrong – mostly in more than 5,000 Jews were deported ghetto disapproved of armed resistance ghetto via the Warsaw sewers, and his completely. The resultant Warsaw the first show. each day, leaving alive only somewhere out of fear of provoking a devastating ongoing negotiations meant that he had Ghetto Uprising, the starting date of Maisel begins in 1958. The central between 55,000 and 60,000 by the time German retaliation. However, Aniele- a good idea of how he might navigate which Jews employ to commemorate character is Miriam “Midge” Maisel the operation came to a close. wicz and another Zionist leader, Yitzhak the labyrinth in the future. Yom HaShoah each year, saw the first (Rachel Brosnahan). Midge is a 26-year- While those in the ghetto did not Zuckerman, began looking for support In early January 1943 – 75 years ago and most extensive expression of urban old affluent Jewish woman with a nice know the precise destination or fate of outside the ghetto. Contacting the Polish this month – Reichsführer-SS Heinrich guerilla resistance against the Nazis by Jewish husband, two young kids and those who had been deported, vague government in London, they managed, Himmler visited the Warsaw Ghetto any population during World War II. a great Manhattan apartment. She’s reports of mass murder at Treblinka with difficulty, to obtain a few rifles and and ordered one final deportation of all It is important to place this in its beautiful, funny and smart (Bryn Mawr did manage to leak back. In response, pistols. The ŻOB then officially became the remaining Jews. This began, unan- proper context, however. The Warsaw grad), but its 1958 and she’s genu- members of Jewish youth groups, in par- part of the High Command of the Pol- nounced, on January 18. In response, al- Ghetto Uprising of April 19 - May 16, inely content with being a housewife/ ticular Hashomer Hatzair, formed the ish Home Army (Armia Krajowa or though lightly armed and poorly trained 1943 did not emerge out of nowhere, mother. Marriage troubles put her on Żydowska Organizacja Bojowa (ŻOB), AK), which began providing additional for combat, the ŻOB saw its first action. and 75 years later it is incumbent upon her improbable journey to becoming a Mordecai Anielewicz developed a plan us all to recognize and honor the brave stand-up comedian. An NPR reviewer in which his fighters obeyed the deporta- young Jewish men and women who de- captured why the series works so well: Center for Judaic, Holocaust, tion orders until they reached a certain cided to enter upon a course from which most dramas about a stand-up comedian part of town, where they received a sig- there was no going back, taking up arms build them up before they take the stage. and Genocide Studies nal to attack. Despite the death of most to resist the Nazis in January 1943. A let-down follows when the fictional of the early Hashomer Hatzair fighters, Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of History Dedicated to educating all sectors of society about comedian isn’t as funny or fresh as many Jews escaped at this time. and the Director of the Center for Ju- you’re led to believe they will be. Maisel Jewish civilization, the Holocaust, and genocide through: Surprised by the opposition and suf- daic, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies doesn’t disappoint. She is shocking, fering several casualties, the Germans at Florida Gulf Coast University. He • scholarship smart and very funny on stage. She is, to withdrew from the ghetto to regroup can be reached at [email protected]. • outreach a large degree, a marvelous fantasy. One their forces and evaluate the situation. • inquiry • sharing knowledge • preserving the record L’CHAYIM delivers! • helping teachers • encouraging students Introduce your business to a POWERFUL demographic and reach 5,000 readers each month for pennies per reader! For ad rates and deadlines, contact Visit www.fgcu.edu/hc/ Jim Lewin at 239.634.6923 or Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director [email protected]. L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 11 Stars of David Interested in Your By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist Editor’s note: Persons in BOLD CAPS are deemed by Nate Bloom to Family’s History? be Jewish for the purpose of the column. Persons identified as Jewish have at least one Jewish parent and were not raised in a faith other than Nate Bloom (see column at left) has become a family history expert in 10 Judaism – and don’t identify with a faith other than Judaism as an adult. Converts years of doing his celebrity column, and he has expert friends who can help to Judaism, of course, are also identified as Jewish. when called on. Most family history experts charge $1,000 or more to do a full family-tree search. However, Bloom knows that most people want to start Five-Star Recommendation wishes that in 1958 there was a Jewish with a limited search of one family line. The eight-episode premiere season of woman comedian who could say – and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is now did say – the things Maisel does. So here’s the deal: streaming on Amazon. Any Amazon MICHAEL ZEGEN, 38, plays Write Bloom at [email protected] and enclose a phone number. Prime member can watch Amazon origi- Joel, Midge’s husband. ALEX BOR- nal series, like Maisel, for free. Rarely STEIN, 46, plays Suzie, Midge’s agent. Nate will then contact you about starting a limited search. If that has there been so much Jewish content The famous real-life comedian LENNY goes well, additional and more extensive searches are possible. in a “regular” TV series, so it’s worth BRUCE (1925-1966) is a secondary, The first search fee is no more than $100. No upfront cost. Also, binge-watching when you can. but important character. The first episode (free for all on- Getting to Know Timothée Chalamet several of this newspaper’s readers have asked Bloom to locate line) is good, but some Jewish details Six months ago, he was a virtual un- friends and family members from their past, and that’s worked out are confused (like calling the break- known. But, in December, Vanity Fair great for them. So contact him about this as well. the-fast dinner “Yom Kippur dinner”). called TIMOTHÉE CHALAMET, 21, Forgive the creator, AMY SHERMAN- the “breakout” star of the year. PALLADINO, 51 (Gilmore Girls). In November, he had a big sup- hattan, is the son of a French journalist vember 28) the same day as they made Her mother wasn’t Jewish and she was porting role as a high school student in father and an American Jewish mother. the mistake. Markle’s correct religious raised “Jewish light” and gets some Lady Bird, an acclaimed coming-of-age His mother’s brother, RODMAN background, as related in The Times’ “Jewish stuff” a bit wrong – mostly in story (starring Saoirse Ronan, it co- FLENDER, 55, is a busy producer/ correction, is this: born Protestant (but the first show. stars BEANIE FELDSTEIN, 24, and TV director. His maternal grandfather, not baptized), she went to a Catholic Maisel begins in 1958. The central ODEYA RUSH, 20). HAROLD FLENDER, was a TV girls’ school and intends to be baptized character is Miriam “Midge” Maisel In December, he became a likely writer. Chalamet stars in A Rainy Day into the Church of England before (Rachel Brosnahan). Midge is a 26-year- Oscar nominee following the lim- in New York, a WOODY ALLEN film marrying Harry. Her father is of varied old affluent Jewish woman with a nice ited release of Call Me By Your Name to be released sometime this year, and European ancestry, including German Jewish husband, two young kids and (opens wide this month). Set in Italy, he recently said that Allen, 82, told him and Irish (but not Jewish). Her mother a great Manhattan apartment. She’s Chalamet plays Elio, the 17-year-old he worked with Harold in the ’50s. Cha- is African-American. beautiful, funny and smart (Bryn Mawr son of an American Jewish professor lamet also has a big role in the Western I suspect the “Jewish story” origi- grad), but its 1958 and she’s genu- (MICHAEL STUHLBARG, 49) and Hostiles, which will be widely released nated in the fact that her ex-husband, inely content with being a housewife/ an Italian Jewish mother. Armie Ham- this month. TREVOR ENGELSON, is Jewish and mother. Marriage troubles put her on mer plays Oliver, an American Jewish In an interview released in Decem- their wedding, reports said, contained her improbable journey to becoming a college student who comes to the profes- ber, Chalamet described himself as Jew- “Jewish elements” (usually means a stand-up comedian. An NPR reviewer sor’s home to help him with academic ish. His mother has posted Instagram chuppah and/or stepping on a glass.) captured why the series works so well: paperwork. Oliver and Elio are drawn photos of the family celebrating Cha- Readers wonder, I know, so here’s most dramas about a stand-up comedian to each other, partially because they’re nukah and of their Seder table. “Clues” the background of just a few of the build them up before they take the stage. both Jewish. A brief romance ensues. point to his father not being Jewish. celebs recently fired or suspended A let-down follows when the fictional Lady Bird won the New York Critics Sorting Them Out for sexual harassment: Charlie Rose comedian isn’t as funny or fresh as Association “film of the year” award Even The New York Times and USA isn’t Jewish; New York Times reporter you’re led to believe they will be. Maisel in December, and the same week, Call Today fell for widespread Internet mis- GLENN THRUSH is; and MATT doesn’t disappoint. She is shocking, Me won the L.A. Critics best 2017 film information that Meghan Markle, now LAUER is the son of a Jewish father/ smart and very funny on stage. She is, to award. the fiancée of Prince Harry, has a Jewish non-Jewish mother. He wasn’t raised a large degree, a marvelous fantasy. One Chalamet, who was raised in Man- father. The Times corrected itself (No- in any faith. L’CHAYIM delivers! 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HADASSAH CELEBRATES ISRAEL’S 70TH BIRTHDAY! Sunday, February 25, 2018 10:00am–1:30pm at the Naples Hilton Artist Ronald Lemoine, with a Bountiful Brunch including $125 Metal per person Israeli Delicacies Support the arts in this gathering of art connoisseurs Featuring Performances of Music and Dance by DON’T MISS just like you as you enjoy all the benefits of being a VIP. THE BIGGEST Cantor Donna Azu ART EVENT VIP Tent on Opening Night, Friday, February 2nd Cantorial Soloist Jane Galler OF THE YEAR! Overlooking the downtown waterfront and glorious sunset VIP Party is – Gourmet hors d'oeuvres from 8 fine restaurants Shalom Dancers of Fort Myers an outdoor – Wine and Beer / Music by Hot Buttered Nuggets tented event - – 70 fabulous artists rain or shine! Join with friends, eat, win prizes, VIP Tent Saturday & Sunday, February 3rd and 4th sing and dance Garden setting overlooking the downtown waterfront VIP Experience – Mimosas, coffee and scones to start your day $70 per person Sponsored by: – Catered specialty lunch / Afternoon Snack Bar – Wine, beer and more all day Hadassah members, their spouses, friends, – 215 fabulous artists and the entire community are welcome. Easy reserved VIP parking all weekend! Collier/Lee County Chapter of Hadassah invites you to our joyful celebration benefitting Hadassah Medical Organization and the work of Hadassah. For more information contact LEE HENSON at 239-495-7866 or [email protected]. Sponsorships / Underwriting are available. RESERVE YOUR TICKETS TODAY! ArtFestFortMyers.com L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 12 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Once upon a time – the Hebrew language 2017’s Dish of the Year: Shakshuka yesterday and today – recipe by Dalia Hemed Book review by Philip K. Jason, Special to L’CHAYIM recently discovered that one of the most popular Jewish/Israeli food The Story of Hebrew, by Lewis that question is the recognition that the of the highest cultural By the later nineteenth trends of the year in the U.S. was Glinert. Princeton University Press. Jewish Bible had literary flexibility and achievement. This pro- century, the Zionist enter-I shakshuka. 296 pages. Hardcover $27.95. richness. It contained law, stories, poetry cess included “a renewal prise was in full swing, and and wisdom: tools for life and for liv- of a biblical Hebrew aes- Prof. Glinert gives the move- Shakshuka has been pretty trendy, ewis Glinert, Professor of Hebrew ing together. While its status as a divine thetic and a reigning-in ment’s effect on Hebrew de-and celebrity chefs from fancy restau- Studies at Dartmouth College, gift urged attention and dependence, the of the rabbinic mode.” tailed, engaging attention.rants all over the U.S. are dreaming has made a complicated and chal- text was rewarding for simply providing The region of Andalusia Similar is given to the Hasidicup beautiful, mouth-watering, not-so- L traditional versions of their own with lenging story line as accessible as pos- stimulation and pleasure. And it wasn’t fostered a “golden age enterprise. sible without oversimplifying the facts all in Hebrew! of Hebrew poetry and The author’s treatment of Israeli flavors that we can’t get enough and the issues. His goal is well-served by Prof. Gilbert traces the ways in linguistics.” Great minds were at the more recent periods, mostof! choosing the word which Hebrew worked, or sometimes work contesting the question of Hebrew importantly the connection between Traditionally, shakshuka is a Sep- “story” rather than didn’t work, to maintain and sustain a language purity. What was required for the founding of the modern State of hardic North African dish of stewed to- “history” for his population scattered and scorned. He the conveyance of knowledge, whether Israel and the state’s commitment tomatoes, garlic and onions with poached title. This decision regularly provides insights into key new or old? For Jonah ibn Janah, the Hebrew as a (essentially “the”) nationaleggs, usually served with fresh pita for creates a mild and characteristics of the language, both mastery of grammatical understanding language, is likely to be the chapter thatdipping. friendly kind of its unique and shared features. These was indispensable. will attract reading, re-reading and dis- In Israel, it’s commonly enjoyed at personification examples enliven the story, but they What version or refinement of cussion in contemporary Jewish circles.breakfast. With more and more Israeli – “Hebrew” be- are subordinate to the grand discovery Hebrew will best serve the Jewish This discussion is full of excitement andchefs opening restaurants in New York comes a character and appreciation of Hebrew’s journey imagination? wonder about the melding of a people,City in recent years, shakshuka quickly in a lively narra- through time. The chapter on “Hebrew in the a language and a homeland. became the “it” brunch food. You can Phil tive. This char- Each reader will make a personal Christian Imagination” opens a world Prof. Glinert provides generousfind it in many fancy Mediterranean Jason acter is multidi- decision about which parts of the story that most Jewish individuals, even the chapter notes, suggestions for further and Israeli restaurants throughout U.S. mensional, like any protagonist worth are most intriguing. One of these is most culturally and linguistically so- reading, and a highly useful index. In honor of this dish’s popular- reading about. He (let’s say “he” for certain to be “Jerusalem, Athens, and phisticated, rarely enter. Prof. Glinert This book is a masterpiece that is ity, I would like to share my recipe for convenience) has his ups and downs. Rome,” notable for its vivid presenta- traces the fate of Hebrew in the early likely to hold sway over the importantshakshuka again with some new twists Though he’s been around for a long tion of a long developing clash of civi- stages of the Christian theological revo- and fascinating issues it discusses for that are a must to try. time, and hasn’t always aged well, he lizations that birthed unending conse- lution and in later periods as well. He many years to come. Jewish readers who Not long ago when I would say the has had spectacular periods of rejuvena- quences. Within this chapter is a sketch examines Christian churchmens’ need enter this challenging space will findword ‘shakshuka,’ people often gave tion. There are times, however, when his of Ezra, perhaps the most indispensable to engage Hebrew as the best way to their understanding of Jewish identityme a strange look. I get excited when I friends can hardly recognize him. figure in the story of the Jewish people. find authority for Christian dogma. mightily expanded. see that look. It means they don’t know Prof. Glinert, after a concise intro- It was he who “led a new wave of Jewish Such a mastery could also be a power- Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeritus what shakshuka is, and that they have duction, traces his character’s life in returnees from Babylonia” and helped to ful conversion tool. The Renaissance of English from the United States Na-no idea what they’re missing out on. eight meaty chapters, usually offering re-establish a vibrant Jewish life in He- and Enlightenment periods in Christian val Academy. He reviews regularly for Shakshuka, like many Middle subsections in each to help focus issues brew’s home territory. This “charismatic Europe featured a dynamic interest in Florida Weekly, Jewish Book World, Eastern dishes, has roots in the Otto- and underscore turning points. These scholar-priest... orchestrated a religious Hebrew among Christians, an interest Southern Literary Review, and other subsections provide necessary breaks revival and strove to bring the Torah to that had waned by the early nineteenth publications. Please visit Phil’s website that even the most ardent followers will the masses.” century. at www.philjason.wordpress.com. For a continuously updated welcome. This same chapter stresses the Early on, the author reminds us centrality of the Mishnah in organizing of the unique situation of Hebrew: Jewish life and the planting of seeds that JEWISH FEDERATION BOOK CLUB calendar of events, visit for much of Jewish history, “Hebrew would, over time, grow into the standard was not a mother tongue to be spoken Hebrew prayer book. naturally. Rather, Jews kept it alive The dazzling middle chapters of The www.JewishFederationLCC.org. by raising their young men to study Story of Hebrew balance an exploration and ponder Hebrew texts.” How could of “The Sephardic Classical Age” against Upcoming events: it survive without being part of an “Medieval Ashkenaz and Italy.” The Wednesday, February 21 everyday exchange among members of first epoch, beginning around the year Alliance for the Arts Event a civilization? 900 and continuing for 600 years (until Among the many partial answers to the Spanish Inquisition), was a period “Stolen Beauty” by Laurie Lico Albanese
Tuesday, March 13 Location. Location.
“Hot Pants in Hollywood” by Susan Silver Women’s Philanthropy Event Shell Point.
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author of STOLEN BEAUTY EXPLORE SHELL POINT TODAY! ATTEND A DISCOVERY SEMINAR | 9:30 A.M. Wednesday, February 21 at 7:00 p.m. WEDNESDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY Co sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties Jan. 3 Jan. 9 Jan. 10 Jan. 16 Jan. 17 Jan. 23 Jan. 24 Jan. 31 and the Alliance for the Arts At the Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
Ms. Albanese will do a book signing Cost is $10/person Reserve today; call (239) 529-4749 or 1-800-780-1131. Or, reserve online at shellpoint.org/seminars. RSVP to www.artinlee.org after her talk. Copies of her books Shell Point is located on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River will be available for purchase. Seating is limited. just 2 miles from the Islands of Sanibel and Captiva. Unparalleled setting. Unparalleled lifestyle. Shell Point is a nonprofit ministry of The Christian and Missionary Alliance Foundation, Inc. www.shellpoint.org ©2017 Shell Point. All rights reserved. SLS-3550-17
SLS-3546-18 LChayim January 2018.indd 1 12/15/17 4:40 PM L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 13 2017’s Dish of the Year: Shakshuka – recipe by Dalia Hemed recently discovered that one of the man Empire. Originally a meat and garnish most popular Jewish/Israeli food vegetable stew known as saksuka, it XX Heat a deep, large skillet or sauté I trends of the year in the U.S. was evolved to an egg-centric dish in North pan on medium. Slowly warm ol- shakshuka. Africa. From Tunisia and Morocco, ive oil in the pan. Add chopped Shakshuka has been pretty trendy, the dish spread throughout the Middle onion, sauté for a few minutes un- and celebrity chefs from fancy restau- East. Jewish North African immigrants til the onion begins to soften. Add rants all over the U.S. are dreaming brought it to Israel, where it became garlic and continue to sauté till up beautiful, mouth-watering, not-so- very popular. It has been said to chal- mixture is fragrant. traditional versions of their own with lenge hummus and falafel as a national XX Add tomatoes and tomato paste to Israeli flavors that we can’t get enough favorite, especially in the winter and pan, stir till blended. Add spices of! all year long. and sugar, stir well, and allow mix- Traditionally, shakshuka is a Sep- If you aren’t familiar with shakshu- ture to simmer over medium heat hardic North African dish of stewed to- ka, I’m thrilled to introduce the concept for 5-7 minutes till it starts to re- Personal Chef Dalia Hemed matoes, garlic and onions with poached to you! It’s one of my favorite dishes duce. At this point, you can taste can be reached at eggs, usually served with fresh pita for which I enjoyed throughout my child- the mixture and spice it according dipping. hood in Israel. I always have the ingre- to your preferences. Add salt and [email protected]. In Israel, it’s commonly enjoyed at dients for shakshuka on hand, and it pepper to taste, more sugar for a busy weeknight for dinner or while breakfast. With more and more Israeli never fails to make people say “yum!” sweeter sauce, or more cayenne entertaining for Sunday brunch. But chefs opening restaurants in New York Ingredients: pepper for a spicier shakshuka. if sometimes you just want some- City in recent years, shakshuka quickly • 1 tbsp olive oil XX Crack the eggs, one at a time, di- thing different you must try some of became the “it” brunch food. You can • 1/2 medium onion, peeled and rectly over the tomato mixture, my favorite ways to eat shakshuka. find it in many fancy Mediterranean diced making sure to space them evenly Shakshuka Hummus: and Israeli restaurants throughout U.S. • 1 clove garlic, minced over the sauce. I usually place 4-5 Put some shakshuka on your hummus, In honor of this dish’s popular- • 2 cans ripe diced tomatoes (14 oz eggs around the outer edge and 1 and you have it all: creamy chickpea ity, I would like to share my recipe for each) in the center. The eggs will cook goodness topped with smoky tomato shakshuka again with some new twists • 2 tbsp tomato paste “over easy” style on top of the to- sauce and a perfectly poached egg. that are a must to try. • 1 tsp hot paprika mato sauce. Matbucha Sauce Shakshuka: Not long ago when I would say the • 1 tsp sweet paprika XX Cover the pan. Allow mixture to A Moroccan spicy salad of roasted to- word ‘shakshuka,’ people often gave • 1 tsp cumin simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until matoes, peppers and garlic. I use mat- me a strange look. I get excited when I • Pinch of cayenne pepper (or more the eggs are cooked and the sauce bucha for hot and spicy flavor and as a see that look. It means they don’t know to taste – spicy!) has slightly reduced. Keep an eye short cut as well. what shakshuka is, and that they have • Pinch of sugar on the skillet to make sure that the Latkes Shakshuka: no idea what they’re missing out on. • Salt and pepper to taste sauce doesn’t reduce too much, Latkes (potato pancakes) with shakshu- Shakshuka, like many Middle • 5-6 eggs which can lead to burning. ka on top. This version is cooked in Eastern dishes, has roots in the Otto- • 1/2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley, for XX Some people prefer their shakshu- a spicy Moroccan tomato sauce and ka eggs more runny. If this is your topped with Bulgarian feta cheese, preference, let the sauce reduce for with a side of Israeli salad. For a continuously updated a few minutes before cracking the eggs on top, then, cover the pan Look for and cook the eggs to taste. Chef Dalia Hemed’s calendar of events, visit XX Garnish with the chopped parsley, if desired. recipes each month Chef Tip: in the pages of www.JewishFederationLCC.org. I love making a simple, classic North African-Israeli style shakshuka on a L’CHAYIM. Location. Location. Shell Point.
Resort Retirement Lifestyles and the Assurance of Lifecare
EXPLORE SHELL POINT TODAY! ATTEND A DISCOVERY SEMINAR | 9:30 A.M.
WEDNESDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY Jan. 3 Jan. 9 Jan. 10 Jan. 16 Jan. 17 Jan. 23 Jan. 24 Jan. 31
Reserve today; call (239) 529-4749 or 1-800-780-1131. Or, reserve online at shellpoint.org/seminars. Shell Point is located on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River just 2 miles from the Islands of Sanibel and Captiva. Unparalleled setting. Unparalleled lifestyle. Shell Point is a nonprofit ministry of The Christian and Missionary Alliance Foundation, Inc. www.shellpoint.org ©2017 Shell Point. All rights reserved. SLS-3550-17
SLS-3546-18 LChayim January 2018.indd 1 12/15/17 4:40 PM L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 14 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST A tribute to Leonard Bernstein in his centennial year By Arlene Stolnitz riting about this prolific com- wanted no part of that! It created a rift required the text to be sung entirely in being called “Lenny,” preferring the poser is a challenge! Those that was finally reconciled when his Hebrew. This year, the Venice Chorale more dignified “Leonard.” Wof us who grew up in the “Pop,” as he was called by Lenny, real- will sing this work in Hebrew at its Sun- This year, the SILL (Sarasota In- ’50s remember the wonderful television ized his son’s enormous talent. day, April 8 concert at 3:30 p.m. at the stitute of Lifetime Learning) lecture programs in which Leonard Bernstein Three works that speak to his Jew- Venice Performing Arts Center. Based program will host his daughter, Jamie was the “ultimate” teacher of clas- ish background are “Jeremiah,” “Kad- on selected verses from the Psalms, the Bernstein. It will be a rare treat, in his sical music with dish” and “Chichester Psalms.” piece was his plea for peace during a Centennial Year, to hear her speak about the New York “Jeremiah,” a 25-minute three- turbulent time in Israel’s history. this wonderfully brilliant man who was Philharmonic’s movement symphony, established Ber- According to Jack Gottlieb, Bern- her father. Young People’s nstein as a major American symphonist. stein’s lifelong confidant and assistant, Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sara- Concerts. I can He had started to work on it shortly after works such as these were testament to sota Jewish Chorale, is a member of clearly remember graduating from Harvard, only to put it Bernstein’s religious upbringing, which the Jewish Congregation of Venice. A making a beeline aside upon entering Curtis Institute to had been “deeply infused” with syna- retired educator from Rochester, New for the TV set on study conducting. It was several years gogue music and Hebrew studies. York, she has sung in choral groups for a Saturday after- later that he returned to his “Hebrew One interesting anecdote about over 25 years and also sings in Venice’s noon so I would song.” Calling it “Jeremiah,” it pre- Bernstein was that he disliked his name Chorale (formerly Exsultate!). Her Arlene Stolnitz not miss his out- miered with the Pittsburgh Symphony being pronounced “Bernsteen.” Instead, interest in choral music has led to this standing talks on “what music means.” Orchestra in 1944. Dealing with the he preferred the true German pronun- series of articles on Jewish folk music (One can still see the videos online, prophet’s pleas to his people Israel ciation “Bernstine,” just as he disliked in the Diaspora. which are as informative and stimulat- against the pagan influences and cor- ing today as when they were produced.) ruption of the time, the symphony offers Bernstein was born on August 25, only consolation rather than solution. 1918, making this his Centennial Year. Bernstein wrote, “The work I have been ConneCt He died on October 20, 1990, and left a writing about all my life is about the legacy that is admired and respected by struggle born of the crisis of our century, with your Jewish Community music aficionados the world over. the crisis of faith.” One cannot talk about his accom- “Kaddish,” which premiered in www.facebook.com/ plishments as a musical genius without 1963, was dedicated to the memory facebook.com/jfedsrq recognizing his expertise and virtuos- of John F. Kennedy, who had been ity. From Broadway theater to classical assassinated just weeks before. It was JewishFederationLCC music, his limitless talent as a pianist, a vehicle for Bernstein to express his composer, conductor, teacher, poet and personal faith. Once again it is his crisis author places him in the music world as of faith in which he asks, “What can we SNOWBIRDS, “musician extraordinaire.” believe in when man has the capabil- We all know of his famous West ity and desire to destroy itself?” The newspapers don’t fly… Side Story, On the Town, Candide and dissonance of the piece suggests that many symphonic creations as well as peace continues to elude us. However, however, your ballet music. the voices of children in this and many And yet despite his diversified inter- of his other compositions represent the address will! est in all areas of music, Bernstein never hope for humanity. forgot his Judaic background, having In “Chichester Psalms,” which pre- grown up in Lawrence, Massachusetts, miered in 1965 in Philharmonic Hall, the son of Samuel and Jennie Reznick New York, Bernstein married a unique Bernstein, who had emigrated from Rus- blend of the Christian choral tradition sia. His father wanted him to go into the with Biblical Hebrew verse. Jazzy and beauty supply business, but Bernstein contemporary in feeling, Bernstein Coming South?
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Time: 9:30 A.M. Monday, January 22 2018 Fort Myers • Bonita Springs • Charleston • Estero • Naples • Palm Beach • Scottsdale 239-461-5900 • www.fi nemarkbank.com • Member FDIC • Equal Housing Lender Monday, February 26 2018 Trust and investment services are not FDIC insured, are not guaranteed by the bank and may lose value. *5-Star Financial Rating issued by Bauer Financial, a leading independent bank rating and research fi rm. Rating is 5 out of 5. L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 15 A tribute to Leonard Bernstein in his centennial year L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 16 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL The Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties Presents the 22nd Annual Jewish Film Festival of Southwest Florida All films will be screened at the Regal Belltower Stadium 20. Open seating at all films for general admission tickets. Tickets will be mailed up to December 31. Tickets ordered after December 31 will be available after 6:00 p.m. inside the theater on the day of the show. Thursday, January 11 at 7:15 p.m. Sponsorship ON THE MAP opportunities are On the Map tells the against-all-odds story of Maccabi Tel Aviv’s 1977 European Championship, which took place at a time when the Middle East was available that include still reeling from the 1973 Yom Kippur War, the 1972 Olympic Massacre at Munich, and the 1976 hijacking of an Air France flight from Tel Aviv. Through reserved seating. See the lens of sports, On the Map presents a much broader story of how one team captured the heart of a nation amid domestic turmoil and the global machina- the form on page 15. tions of the Cold War. As one of the players famously said, “Israel is now on the map, not just in sport, but in everything.” Language: English Running Time: 1 hr. 25 min. Thank You to these Sponsors of the Jewish Film Festival: Tuesday, January 16 at 7:15 p.m. Principal Sponsor THE INVISIBLES Berlin, February 1943: The Nazi regime declares the Reich’s capital “free of Jews.” At this point in time, 7,000 Jews have succeeded in going underground. Almost 1,700 will survive the horrors of the war in Berlin. The Invisibles tells the stories of four young Jews who survive by living so recklessly, they become “invisible.” The dramatic reenactments are supplemented with impressive interviews with the actual people whose lives inspired this film. The two levels blend together into an intensive, emotionally moving film. Language: German w/English subtitles Running Time: 1 hr. 50 min.
Thursday, January 18 at 7:15 p.m.
SHELTER Dr. Brian and Sara Krivisky Naomi Rimon, a Mossad agent, is sent on an easy mission: to protect Mona, a Lebanese collaborator, in a safe house in Hamburg, Germany, for two weeks. But there are no easy missions in this world, certainly not in the world of espionage and intrigue. No one saw what was coming. No one knew that this supposedly quiet “shelter” would turn dangerous and that a new shelter would need to be found. In this game of deception, beliefs are questioned and choices are made that are not their own. And yet their fate takes a surprising turn in this Martha & John Wolf thriller. Language: English, Hebrew, Arabic w/English subtitles Running Time: 1 hr. 33 min.
Tuesday, January 23 at 7:15 p.m. Helene & Jorge Glocer Double Feature Lin & Ron Klein Barbara & Barry Epstein TALIA Sylvia & Paul Simko Linda & Charles Idelson Talia is a young woman with Asperger’s high-functioning autism. She has dis- Reeva & Ian Shaffer Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist covered a passion for acting and filmmaking. This documentary follows Talia of Florida on her journey to learning her craft as an actress, as well as developing her Cheryl & Michael Howard N. Barrow, MD communication skills for life. Rozzi Osterman, co-president of the Jewish Goldstein Federation and an award-winning documentary filmmaker, wrote and directed Marsha & Mike Kistler this film. There will be a Q & A with Rozzi after the film. Judi & Richard H. Davis Language: English Running Time: 26 min. Linda & Jeff Shuster Shirley & Byron Frank DREAMING OF A JEWISH Harriet & Alan Josephson CHRISTMAS Carol & Irwin Friedman Dreaming of a Jewish Christmas is an offbeat, irreverent musical documentary Andrea & Milton that tells the story of a group of Jewish songwriters, including Mel Torme and Goodman Irving Berlin, who wrote the soundtrack to Christianity’s most musical holiday. JoAnn & Jim Lewin It’s an amazing tale of immigrant outsiders who became irreplaceable players Lynda & Michael in pop culture’s mainstream. Rubenstein Language: English Running Time: 50 min. Zelda Dubin Fund L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 17
Thursday, January 25 at 7:15 p.m. COMEDY ROAD A young Jewish comedian from L.A. implored, cajoled and encouraged his professional colleagues of all faiths to join him on a comedy tour in Israel. They came to a country many of them had never thought about visiting and put themselves out on stage in front of an audience that might or might not get their comedy, and that might or might not be in the midst of a war or a wave of terrorism. Comedy Row shows what it was like for them to perform, how they got along, the sights they saw, and the effect that Israel had on them. Language: English Running Time: 1 hr. 16 min. Tuesday, January 30 at 7:15 p.m. THE WEDDING PLAN Michal is a 32-year-old Orthodox woman in Jerusalem whose fiancée an- nounces he doesn’t love her. Crushed, yet determined to get married anyway, the lonely Michal decides to keep her planned wedding date which is just 22 The Jewish Federation of days away, on the eighth night of Hanukkah. She pays the owner of the banquet Lee and Charlotte Counties hall already reserved, sends out wedding invitations and puts her faith in God that a suitable groom will appear in time. The Wedding Plan is more than a thanks the members of the romantic comedy, it is a tale of belief, endurance, family and belonging. Language: Hebrew w/English subtitles Running Time: 1 hr. 50 min. 2018 Jewish Film Festival Committee for their help in reviewing and selecting films: Thursday, February 1 at 7:15 p.m. Sara Krivisky, Chair THE TESTAMENT Carolyn Gora, Lynn Talone, Yoel, a senior Holocaust researcher, is in the middle of a widely covered legal battle with powerful forces in Austria, concerning a brutal massacre of Jews that Helene Glocer, Irwin Kash took place toward the end of WWII in an Austrian village. While investigating the incident, Yoel examines classified testimonies of Holocaust survivors, and Jan Klein, Elissa Grossman to his shock and surprise finds a testimony given by his mother, a testimony Claire Goldhagen, Susie Ferkel he didn’t know existed. In it, she confesses to a substantial secret from her past. Yoel, who’s conducting a double-investigation, personal and scientific, is trapped between walls of silence – on one side denial of the Holocaust, and on the other, his mother’s silence regarding her past. Language: Hebrew, German, English, Yiddish w/English subtitles Running Time: 1 hr. 33 min. ORDER FORM Indicate your choices on the form below Tuesday, February 6 at 7:15 p.m. and send it along with your payment to: AN ACT OF DEFIANCE The Jewish Federation In this riveting historical drama, ten political activists, including Nelson Man- dela and his inner circle of Black and Jewish supporters, face a possible death 9701 Commerce Center Court sentence for conspiracy to commit sabotage after they are arrested by the apart- Fort Myers, FL 33908 heid South African government during a raid in the town of Rivonia during the summer of 1963. Bram Fischer, a sympathetic lawyer, risks his career and Questions? Call 239.481.4449 x3 freedom to defend these men, attempting to hide the fact that he, too, frequently convened on the farm where they were arrested. or email [email protected]. Language: English, Afrikaans w/ English subtitles Running Time: 2 hr. 4 min. Name______Address______City______ST____ Zip______Phone______Thursday, February 8 at 7:15 p.m. Email______RESTORING TOMORROW Tickets will be mailed up to December 31. In these divided times, religious institutions are losing young members and Tickets ordered after December 31 will be even closing their doors at an alarming rate. Director Aaron Wolf’s personal available after 6:00 p.m. inside the theater journey of rediscovery comes alive in Restoring Tomorrow, a universal story the day of the show. of hope, as a treasured local temple near demise is lifted up by a community’s determination to achieve the impossible. Wolf’s journey explores how when No refunds on tickets. any community puts its mind to it, the impossible becomes possible. Wilshire Boulevard Temple, a Los Angeles treasure built by the original Hollywood OPEN SEATING AT ALL FILMS moguls, needs to raise millions to restore its majesty and vibrancy, thus also restoring the future of the Jewish community, the greater Los Angeles commu- SERIES OF EVENING FILMS: $108 nity and, on a personal level, Wolf himself. INDIVIDUAL FILMS: $12 each Language: English Running Time: 1 hr. 22 min. Indicate # of tickets desired for each film: _____ Series Ticket...... (all films) _____ On the Map...... 1/11/18 Tuesday, February 13 at 7:15 p.m. _____ The Invisibles...... 1/16/18 I’VE GOT TO BE ME _____ Shelter...... 1/18/18 Sammy Davis, Jr.: I’ve Got to Be Me is the first major film documentary to _____ Double Feature...... 1/23/18 examine Davis’s vast talent and his journey for identity through the shifting _____ Comedy Road...... 1/25/18 th tides of civil rights and racial progress during 20 century America. Sammy _____ The Wedding Plan...... 1/30/18 strove to achieve the American Dream in a time of racial prejudice and shifting politics. He was the veteran of increasingly outdated show business traditions _____ The Testament...... 2/1/18 trying to stay relevant; he frequently found himself bracketed by the bigotry of _____ An Act of Defiance...... 2/6/18 white America and the distaste of black America; he was the most public figure _____ Restoring Tomorrow...... 2/8/18 to embrace Judaism, thereby sealing his identity to another persecuted minor- ity. The documentary features interviews with stars like Billy Crystal, Norman _____ I’ve Got to be Me...... 2/13/18 Lear, Jerry Lewis, Whoopi Goldberg and Kim Novak. Language: English Running Time: 1 hr. 40 min. _____ Total Due r Check payable to Jewish Federation enclosed Charge: r MasterCard r Visa r Amex r Discover JOIN US FOR A “REEL” Name on card______Card#______GOOD TIME! Exp. Date______L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 18 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST
63. “Holy cow!” 26. Hang ___ Jerusalem Post Crossword Puzzle 64. Like the numbers 18 and 36 27. Connection device Over 60 FIDF leaders from across U.S. visit Israel “On A Diet” By: Yoni Glatt Difficulty Level: Easy 65. Matt Damon’s action franchise 28. In the know character 29. Famously funny Gilda 66. Paul Rudd’s tiny friends in the 30. A boy getting his bris, e.g. for exclusive look into Israeli soldiers’ lives Marvel Universe 31. Chip dip 67. Danny Tanner and Phil Dunphy, 32. Ehud killed him on TV 33. Skull___ (kepah) 68. Genesis, e.g. 36. C.I.A. predecessor Down 38. “Dirty” Dead Sea treatments 1. Sound astonished 40. Burger Ranch listing 2. Ahava ingredient 42. Worked hard at 3. ___ Chametz (burning) 43. Ahmed who owns American 4. Chanukah food Pharoah 5. It’s a flame 46. Suffix with cash, cloth or hotel 6. Savage of “The Wonder Years” 47. Late writer Nora 7. Challah unit 50. Genesis creator? 8. Like Seinfeld’s “yada yada yada”: 51. ___-Ra (Egyptian god) Abbr 52. “Weapon” of Yuri Foreman or 9. Parshat ___ Mot Floyd Mayweather 10. It keeps you up 53. Got gray 11. Food or shelter, e.g. 54. Some Shekel coins 12. Reebok or Naot alternative 56. Puts on YES or NBC 13. Kind of korban 57. Actor Billy of “Titanic” 18. Rode around HaYarkon Park 58. An Israeli online news source 23. Routing word 61. Actress Green of “Casino Royale” 25. Ben Gurion data, briefly 62. Blood-typing system
Editor: Yoni Glatt, [email protected] Solution on page 22 Across Gottfried 1. Clark in Selznick’s “Gone With the 37. Belonging to the first man Wind” 39. Impersonated 6. Kind of collar 40. Malha and Azrieli Center, e.g. 10. The skinny 41. Lima has its largest Jewish 14. J.J. Abrams TV hit before “Lost” community 15. Campus military org. 42. Earn a blessing? 16. “America” singer Diamond 44. Brillo rival JEWISH FEDERATION 17. Miami locale where a lot of Jews 45. Some Israeli water? FOOD PANTRY go on vacation in January 48. Hélène considered the “French 19. Tennis player Dudi Anne Frank” Following is a list of staples always in need at the food pantry: 20. Fringe benefit 49. “You betcha” Peanut butter and jelly Pasta sauce (pasta, not needed) 21. Protectors of Isr. 50. “King Solomon’s Mines” expedition 22. ___ zarah (idol worship) 53. “I’m ___ pay phone trying to call Rice and beans Canned vegetables and fruits 24. “Yikes!” home” (Maroon 5) Cereal Canned meats 26. Fictional Reaper 55. Smoggy Condiments Toiletries for adults & children
27. One might happen before Passover? 59. Radiate (like light from the face of 33. Sacrificial animal Moses) Gift cards to places like Publix, Walmart, Target, etc., as well as cash donations, are also appreciated. 34. Added Jewish month 60. One who would not eat the meat Jewish Family Services helps seniors, individuals and families with a variety of needs. 35. “Aladdin” parrot voiced by Gilbert of the Passover sacrifice Grow your business with L’CHAYIM!
Each month, 5,000 Jewish residents Targeted Distribution in Lee and Charlotte Reach our affluent, informed, health-conscious, and counties turn to savvy readers who are looking for new and better ways to enrich their lives and those of their loved ones. L’CHAYIM for: L’CHAYIM – the monthly newspaper published by the u Upcoming major events Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties – is u Community Directory mailed to 5,000 residents in the area. Additional copies are available at the Jewish Federation office. u Synagogue news u Local Organization news Life-Enriching Information u Jewish Federation updates Each month, readers of L’CHAYIM get news and updates u Community Calendar on all Jewish-related local events including the Jewish u Holocaust Museum news Film Festival, Jewish author programs, holiday celebra- u Candle Lighting Times tions, concerts, food festivals, book study groups, timely u Business Directory lectures, mah jongg and much more. They also get up- u Rabbinical Reflections dates from the area’s synagogues and numerous local Jewish organizations. It’s the place they turn to for com- u Israel updates munity news, the community calendar, candle lighting u Photos of recent events times, and a business directory. u and much more The exclusive way to reach the Jewish Community in Lee and Charlotte counties. For more information or to place an ad in L’CHAYIM: Call: Jim Lewin at 239.634.6923 Email: [email protected] Website: Visit the L’CHAYIM page at www.JewishFederationLCC.org L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 19
26. Hang ___ 27. Connection device Over 60 FIDF leaders from across U.S. visit Israel 28. In the know 29. Famously funny Gilda 30. A boy getting his bris, e.g. for exclusive look into Israeli soldiers’ lives EW YORK, November 19 – modest means; toured pivotal military devoted soldiers and tell them, in one grams and facilities that provide hope, 31. Chip dip More than 60 leaders and sup- installations, such as the Ramat David unified voice, how much we appreci- purpose and life-changing support for 32. Ehud killed him porters of Friends of the Israel Air Force Base, to get a comprehensive ate and support them,” said Weintraub. the soldiers who protect Israel and Jews 33. Skull___ (kepah) N Defense Forces (FIDF) from all walks look into the cutting-edge technology “We had unprecedented access to their worldwide. Today, FIDF has more than 36. C.I.A. predecessor of life and from across the United States Israel employs to protect its skies and daily lives, visiting them on their bases 150,000 loyal supporters, and 20 chap- 38. “Dirty” Dead Sea treatments traveled to Israel last week as part of borders; and heard firsthand from IDF across Israel and hearing their stories ters throughout the United States and 40. Burger Ranch listing the FIDF National Leadership Mission, combat soldiers serving on Israel’s front firsthand.” Panama. FIDF proudly supports IDF 42. Worked hard at getting an exclusive look into the Israel lines. 43. Ahmed who owns American Defense Forces (IDF) and showing their Leading the FIDF National Lead- Pharoah solidarity with and appreciation for ership Mission were FIDF National 46. Suffix with cash, cloth or hotel Israel’s brave soldiers. President and Mission Chairman Peter 47. Late writer Nora The mission, November 10-17, Weintraub and FIDF National Director 50. Genesis creator? brought members of FIDF’s 20 chapters and CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Meir Klifi- 51. ___-Ra (Egyptian god) Amir. 52. “Weapon” of Yuri Foreman or “This National Lead- Floyd Mayweather ership Mission allowed 53. Got gray our supporters and the 54. Some Shekel coins brave men and women 56. Puts on YES or NBC of the IDF to forge even 57. Actor Billy of “Titanic” deeper bonds of friend- 58. An Israeli online news source The delegation of American FIDF supporters in front of an F-16 fighter jet at Ramat David Air Force Base ship,” said Klifi-Amir. near Haifa, Israel, on November 15 (Photo credits: Shahar Azran) 61. Actress Green of “Casino Royale” “These young soldiers risk About Friends of the Israel Defense soldiers, families of fallen soldiers, and 62. Blood-typing system their lives every day serv- Forces (FIDF): wounded veterans through a variety of ing the State of Israel and FIDF was established in 1981 by a innovative programs that reinforce the protecting Jews around group of Holocaust survivors as a 501(c) vital bond between the communities in Israel Border Police Commander Maj. Gen. Yaakov (Kobi) Shabtai the world. This mission (3) not-for-profit organization with the United States, the soldiers of the with FIDF National Director and CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Meir Klifi-Amir and FIDF National President and Mission Chairman Peter Weintraub allowed our supporters the mission of offering educational, IDF, and the State of Israel. For more at a Border Police base on November 12 to see the life-changing cultural, recreational and social pro- information, visit www.fidf.org. together with the soldiers of the IDF. impact their contributions make. It also Mission participants received in-depth offered our supporters a rare opportunity geopolitical briefings by senior military to personally thank IDF soldiers for For daily news stories related officers, met with state leaders, toured their service, and to learn more about strategic IDF bases to get a behind-the- how we can support their well-being to Israel & the Jewish world, scenes look into the Israeli military, even more.” visit the Federation’s website at JEWISH FEDERATION and experienced Israel in an entirely He added: “For Israeli soldiers, the new way. chance to meet the men and women FOOD PANTRY www.JewishFederationLCC.org. The group of FIDF leaders visited who support FIDF, while the soldiers FIDF-sponsored well-being and educa- are serving, and right on their own army Following is a list of staples always in need at the food pantry: tional facilities on IDF bases and met bases, gives them a powerful morale Peanut butter and jelly Pasta sauce (pasta, not needed) beneficiaries of FIDF programs – in- boost and helps them see the critical Rice and beans Canned vegetables and fruits cluding Lone Soldiers with no immedi- role they play in the lives of Jews ev- ate family in Israel, and students who erywhere.” Cereal Canned meats benefit from the FIDF IMPACT! Schol- “For one incredible week, we Condiments Toiletries for adults & children arship Program, which grants college brought American FIDF supporters scholarships to IDF combat veterans of to Israel to visit the IDF’s brave and Gift cards to places like Publix, Walmart, Target, etc., as well as cash donations, are also appreciated. 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Berlin in 2015 for a reported $45 mil- vice Walter Presents, recently told formats like In Treatment, “These are characters who deal with lion for 12 episodes, while American Bloomberg Business Week that Israeli WHomeland and Fauda so complex issues, and because Israel is a Homeland episodes each cost Showtime TV formats are “emotionally poignant, enthusiastically embraced in translation Western society those issues resonate $3 million to produce. That’s more than three-dimensional and never boring.” by global viewers? Why are Israeli- with American viewers. the average $2 million for cable shows That could be thanks to the next two originated series such as Greenhouse The focus on characters results in made that year but much less than Game reasons. Academy, Hostages and The A Word part from a lack of big money in Israeli of Thrones episodes that clocked in at $6 6. They depict the melting pot instant hits in countries from Finland TV production to do expensive action million apiece and now cost $15 million. of Israeli society to Thailand? or adventure shows. Which leads us to 3. They’re not afraid to take risks In an age when global viewers are eager the second reason Israeli Just as Israelis in general comfortably to drill deeper into the psychology of TV formats are popular embrace risk-taking and uncertainty, the foreign cultures, Israeli shows are just abroad… Israeli TV formats industry doesn’t hesi- what the doctor ordered. Concentrated 2. They’re low-budget tate to take a chance on innovative and into a very small space, Israelis com- Israeli shows are attrac- unusual ideas, in contrast to tradition- prise Jewish, Muslim, Christian and tive to studios because, ally conservative production industries Druze natives and immigrants from relatively speaking, they elsewhere that are more likely to reject a across the world, many of them from don’t take pots of cash to new idea that’s not a sure bet. Once it’s North African/Middle Eastern nations produce. been proven in Israel, an out-of-the-box and the former Soviet Union. How Avi Armoza, CEO of show format is an easier sell abroad. everyone gets along (or doesn’t) is end- Armoza Formats, which A case in point is The A Word, which lessly entertaining. Cast of Greenhouse Academy, a Netflix show shot on location has sold 60 Israeli TV for- portrays a family with an autistic child. 7. They reflect the daily drama in Israel (photo by Ronen Akerman) mats abroad, told Haaretz It’s based on the Israeli series Yellow of Israeli life According to the Israeli Export that Israelis have “gained the experi- Peppers. The underlying themes of war, ter- Institute, global TV and film sales from ence and knowledge on how to be 4. They have international appeal ror, religious and political conflicts Israel tallied $268 million in 2016. Net- creative with our solutions and produce Aside from creating characters anyone – and the everyday challenge of get- flix online video service offers a dozen cost-effective shows that still have the can relate to, Israeli producers (like ting along with neighbors of different Hebrew-language shows to subscribers. appearance of big-budget productions, Israeli high-tech entrepreneurs) think cultures (see No. 6) – provide rich fod- Last September, buyers and producers making them more accessible and internationally in their business models der for Israeli producers. from a whopping 28 countries came to attractive to other territories.” due to Israel’s small domestic market. The sometimes chaotic reality of Tel Aviv for the second international Homeland, one of the most expen- One example is Keshet, Israel’s Israeli life is reflected in the title of one TV Formats Conference. sive Israeli TV formats, was made in biggest production house, which has of the biggest hits overseas, Fauda, Israeli TV formats are varied, from opened branches in Los which means “chaos” in Arabic. Action, nail-biting dramas like Prisoners of War Angeles, London, Hong humor, suspense, melodrama – our TV to fun quiz shows like Still Standing. Kong and Mexico City shows have it all. And the reasons for their popularity are to sell shows, help create Abigail Klein Leichman is a writer and just as varied. foreign adaptations and associate editor at ISRAEL21c. Prior to 1. They’re character-driven produce original pro- moving to Israel in 2007, she was a spe- “It’s the compelling characters that draw gramming overseas. cialty writer and copy editor at a major Lowell S. 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staff, said, “These women have- real know that you can help them and not ized the army is a very important com- do so.” The hospital opened in Novem- BRIEFS ponent of feeling part of Israeli society, ber in Bariqa in the Quneitra region. It and they want to contribute to the state. is staffed entirely by Syrian doctors, MUSEUMS IN ISRAEL The first civilian airport built since They are religious Zionists – their while the incubators, beds and ultra- PORTAL: CULTURE AND Israel was founded is located 19 km. brothers serve, and now they want to, sound equipment come from Israel. HISTORY FOR THE north of Eilat in the Timna Valley and too.” (Ruth Eglash, Washington Post) The operation is expanding and will replace the current airport located reaching villages as far as 20 km. from DIGITAL AGE within the city itself. (Anna Ahron- You can now access thousands of his- 231 IMMIGRANTS FROM the border in an area with 200,000 peo- heim, Jerusalem Post) tory’s magnificent treasures – with the TWO “LOST TRIBES” ple. “We are...literally every day sav- touch of a button. WHY A GROWING ARRIVE IN ISRAEL ing people’s lives,” Lt.-Col. E. said. In preparation for winter, the IDF With more museums per capita NUMBER OF RELIGIOUS Members of two “lost tribes” – 162 than any other country, and some of the people from India’s Bnei Menashe and has provided 30 tons of warm clothing world’s most important historical and WOMEN WANT TO SERVE 69 from Ethiopia, reputedly descen- and a mass supply of diesel fuel so vil- archeological sites, Israel has emerged IN THE ISRAELI MILITARY dants of the Tribe of Dan – arrived in lagers can heat their houses. IDF sup- as a hub for art, history and culture. All Israelis are drafted into the military Israel Thursday, November 16, to re- plies of flour have brought the price of This portal – five years in the mak- at age 18, with a few exceptions. unite with family members and make bread down by at least half in the as- ing – provides visitors with unlimited Religiously observant women, new lives in the country. sisted villages. Lt.-Col. E. said, “The access to more than 63,000 photo- known in Israel as modern Orthodox, Some 1,700 Bnei Menashe have flour is free, the diesel is free, the ve- graphs, items and exhibits with a touch traditionally have opted to enroll in na- settled in Israel over the past 15 years, hicle [for transportation] is free. They of a button. tional service, volunteering in schools with a further 7,000 waiting to immi- just have to pay for the worker in the It features works of art, archeo- or the community for a year or two, in- grate. (Times of Israel) bakery.” (Ben Lynfield,Jerusalem Post) logical artifacts, extensive Judaica and stead of the military. original historical documents from pre- But since 2010, the number of re- ISRAELI AID TO SYRIANS: ISRAEL HAS HIGHEST historic times to today. ligious women who want to serve has WARM CLOTHING, FERTILITY RATE IN OECD The portal also gives visitors ac- jumped from 935 in 2010 to 2,499 in HEATING OIL AND A Among the 35 developed countries that cess to millions of items featured in 2016. are members of the Organization for They are increasingly choosing to MATERNITY HOSPITAL Europeana, the European digital cul- The IDF has facilitated the opening of Economic Cooperation and Develop- serve out of a sense of duty to defend tural library. a maternity hospital on the Syrian side ment (OECD), women in Israel have Israel, military officials and soldiers Visit the Museums in Israel Portal of the Golan Heights – part of a sig- the highest birthrate, with 3.1 children. say. at http://www.museums.gov.il/en/. (Is- nificant expansion of Operation Good On average, a baby is born in Israel ev- Women make up roughly a third of rael Ministry of Foreign Affairs) Neighbor, which provides Israeli as- ery three minutes. Israel’s military, compared with about sistance to war-ravaged Syrian villages Mexico placed a distant sec- 14% in the U.S. armed forces. The IDF NEW EILAT AIRPORT near the Israeli border. ond with 2.2, and the fertility rate for says that today around 90% of all mili- TO OPEN IN 2018 Lt.-Col. E., commander of the op- France, the U.S., Britain, the Nether- tary jobs are open to women. Eilat’s Ilan and Assaf Ramon Interna- eration, explained, “You can’t stand lands and Spain is less than 2. (Maytal Brig.-Gen. Sharon Nir, the adviser tional Airport is set to open in April from the side and see your neighbor Yasur Beit-Or, Israel Hayom) on gender affairs to the IDF chief of 2018. dying and living in hard conditions and continued on next page
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Briefs...continued from previous page ISRAEL AS A STRATEGIC Jews were asked to capture and Ottoman Empire at the Battle of belonging and 60% are proud to be ASSET OF THE WEST hold those bridges to prevent their Megiddo in 1918. Israelis, according to a new poll com- In 1938, the Jews in what was then destruction by the Vichy forces. In World War II the British Eighth missioned by Israel Hayom that was Mandatory Palestine established Fifty young Jewish farmers from Army included 30,000 Jewish vol- released Tuesday, November 21. the village of Hanita, on the Leba- Hanita held the bridges for seven unteers, many of whom carried out 46% identified as Israeli Arabs and nese border, against the wishes of hours and repulsed ten mass at- extraordinary acts of heroism and 42% identified as Palestinian Arabs. the ruling British. Two years later, tacks before regular Australian devotion to duty in the face of hor- 82% said they had no desire to live in 1940, the very same British au- troops arrived. This was the opera- rific adversity. under Palestinian rule. (Baruch Ron, thorities asked the Jews of Hanita tion in which Moshe Dayan lost Moreover, the Jews of Palestine Israel Hayom) for help as they planned to invade his left eye, and his forces suf- contributed much more to the Al- Syria to prevent the Vichy French fered over 50% casualties. The Is- lied war effort than all of the Arab ISRAELI SOCCER STAR government there from allowing raeli pioneers proved to be a vital nations combined. The British NAMED CHINA’S PLAYER a German army to build up there. strategic asset to Great Britain, as army was supported in Palestine by OF THE YEAR Bridges over the Litani River were did the Jewish Legion of the Brit- 200,000 Jewish industrial workers Israeli soccer star Eran Zahavi, 30, vital for the operation, and the ish Army, which helped defeat the and farmers and thousands more was recently named the most valuable doctors, dentists and nurses. 7,000 player in the Chinese Super League af- factories and vast acres of agricul- ter finishing the season as the top goal tural land were placed at the dis- scorer. His 27 goals for the season were posal of British Empire Forces. one short of tying the league record of In 1981, an Israeli strike destroyed 28. the Iraqi nuclear reactor under Zahavi has a $7 million a year con- construction in Baghdad, an attack tract with the Guangzhou R&F club that was condemned at the time until 2020. (Times of Israel) but was later recognized as being an important factor in enabling the DEVELOPMENT OF U.S.-led coalition to remove Iraqi ISRAEL’S LEVIATHAN forces from Kuwait. In 2007, the GAS FIELD IS 30 PERCENT Israeli Air Force destroyed the Syr- COMPLETE ian nuclear reactor in Deir ez-Zor Currently, the offshore Tamar gas field region, preventing the Assad re- supplies Israel with 65% of its power Proudly serving the Jewish community of Lee County for over gime from acquiring atomic weap- needs. ons or transferring nuclear material 52 years, Opening the larger Leviathan field to Hizbullah and Iran. will put Israel in a position as an ener- Hodges Funeral Home at Lee Memorial Park Cemetery After 9/11, Western nations found gy exporter, said Binyamin A. Zomer, off State Road 82 provides many convenient and affordable themselves increasingly dependent Noble Energy’s vice president for re- options for traditional as well as contemporary funeral and on Israel’s vast operational and gional affairs, which operates the two counterterrorism experience, in- burial services. fields. comparable intelligence resources Noble Energy and its Israeli part- and highly developed technologi- ners are investing $3.75 billion in de- cal sophistication. (Col. Richard Garden of David spaces starting at $2,995 veloping Leviathan off the Haifa coast, Kemp, Commander of British which is almost 30% complete. Forces in Afghanistan, Jewish The Leviathan production platform Political Studies Review) is being constructed at a shipyard in POLL: MOST ISRAELI Corpus Christi, Texas. (Maayan Hoff- man, Jerusalem Post) ARABS SAY THEY FEEL PART OF ISRAELI SOCIETY ZUBIN MEHTA, FROM 54% of Israeli Arabs say they feel part INDIA TO ISRAEL, MAKING of Israeli society, but 67% say Israel BEAUTIFUL MUSIC had no right to be defined as the nation- Zubin Mehta, 81, an Indian Zoroas- al home of the Jewish people, accord- trian, has been the musical director ing to a survey released by the Israel of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra Democracy Institute. for more than 50 years. “It started by 69% of Jews and 74% of Arabs chance,” he says. “A great conductor, report that they have been employed Eugene Ormandy, fell ill and couldn’t where Jews and Arabs work together, do a series of concerts with the Israel and that 90% of Jews and 95% of Ar- Philharmonic in 1961. I was a jobless odges abs defined the relationship between conductor in Vienna...and they called Funeral Home the employees as good or very good. me to cover as a substitute.” (Prof. Tamar Hermann, Israel Democ- He recalls there was “an immedi- H racy Institute) at Lee Memorial Park ate good feeling between me and the POLL: 60% OF ISRAELI orchestra. We hit it off, musically and spiritually. And I felt very at home in 12777 State Road 82 ARABS ARE “PROUD” Fort Myers, FL 33967 (239) 334-4880 Israel... Their temperament is very TO BE ISRAELI much like India. They all talk at the 73% of Israeli Arabs feel a sense of same time. They’re very opinionated, very argumentative, very hospitable.” (Tunku Varadarajan, Wall Street Jour- nal) HOOPS IN THE HOLY LAND: AFRICAN-AMERICAN BASKETBALL PLAYERS EMBRACE ISRAEL In the last 40 years, more than 800 African-Americans have relocated to Israel to play in the Israeli Basketball Premier League. David Goldstein, chief operating officer for USports, the governing body for university sports in continued on next page Jerusalem Post Crossword Puzzle Solution to puzzle on page 18 L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 23
Briefs...continued from previous page Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Canada, has written a new book about energy projects. Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. these players, Alley-Oop to Aliyah. Israeli companies will now be eli- Many of these American players gible to receive USAID grants to pen- went to Israel begrudgingly, if only to etrate the African market. showcase themselves for a bigger con- Israeli companies will be able to COMMENTARY BRIEFS tract elsewhere. But many have stayed, negotiate contracts in countries where WHY TRUMP IS RIGHT WORLD DOESN’T living as culturally Jewish, while more there is no official Israeli presence, ad- IN RECOGNIZING END AFTER TRUMP than 20 eventually converted to Juda- vancing major clean-energy projects ism. (Myles Dichter, CBC Sports) and counterbalancing Chinese solar JERUSALEM AS RECOGNIZES JERUSALEM After decades of threats intimidated companies. ISRAEL’S CAPITAL Trump’s predecessors and other world NUMBER OF WOMEN Two out of three people in sub- President Trump’s decision to recog- leaders to pretend Jerusalem is not Is- IN IDF COMBAT ROLES Saharan Africa lack reliable electricity. nize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital is a rael’s capital, it turned out that even REACHES RECORD HIGH (Max Schindler, Jerusalem Post) perfect response to President Obama’s decision to change American policy by the Palestinians couldn’t manage much In 2017, 2,700 women were recruited engineering the UN Security Council fury. The demonstrations in Jerusalem into the IDF’s four mixed-gender bat- ISRAEL NAVY DEPLOYS resolution declaring Judaism’s holiest were more severe after Israel installed talions and to the Home Front Com- SHIP-BASED IRON DOME places in Jerusalem to be occupied ter- metal detectors at the entrance to the mand’s Rescue Division, up from 600 The Israeli military has declared op- ritory, handing the Palestinians enor- Temple Mount in July. in 2012. erational capability of a ship-based mous leverage in future negotiations While some people may still hate Commander of the Rescue Division version of the Iron Dome air defense and disincentivizing them from mak- Jews and wish Israel would disappear, Col. Yair Barkat said that the young system following a live-fire test that ing a compromised peace. most have accepted that after 70 years women’s motivation to serve was ex- destroyed multiple incoming targets at The Security Council resolution Israel is here to stay. Apart from Iran ceedingly high, as was their quality. sea. The system was deployed onboard changed the status quo by declaring and radical Muslim terror groups such The drop-out rate among female the INS Lahav, a Sa’ar-5 corvette. Israel’s presence at Jewish holy sites as Hamas and Hizbullah, no one is in- recruits was no higher than their male “Officially, from today, we added to be a “flagrant violation under inter- terested in waging war against Israel. counterparts. (Yossi Yehoshua, Ynet another operational layer to defend Is- national law.” President Trump’s deci- For decades now, the Arab states have News) raeli assets in the Mediterranean Sea,” done little more than pay lip service to said Brig.-Gen. Zvika Haimovich, sion to officially recognize Jerusalem the Palestinian cause. They will vote WITH IRAN ON ITS commander of the Air Force’s Aerial as Israel’s capital helps to restore the with them at the UN, which costs noth- Defense Division. appropriate balance. DOORSTEP, ISRAEL ing, but they have grown tired of fi- Iron Dome has been credited with Since virtually everyone in the in- QUIETLY READIES GAME- nancing their corrupt leaders. more than 1,700 successful intercepts ternational community acknowledges CHANGING AIR POWER Other nations should follow Amer- since it was first deployed in 2011. that any reasonable peace would rec- Israel is making clear to Iran and its ica’s example. This will do more for (Barbara Opall-Rome, Defense News) ognize Israel’s legitimate claims in Je- agents that it has no intention of allow- rusalem, there is no reason for allowing peace because it will disabuse the Pal- ing them to proceed with their plans to the UN resolution to make criminals estinians of the delusion that they will create a military outpost in Syria. ISRAEL’S ETERNAL CAPITAL GETS LONG out of every Jew or Israeli who sets get a state along the ’67 lines with Je- Israel’s new aerial strike capabili- rusalem as their capital. (Dr. Mitchell OVERDUE RECOGNITION foot in these historically Jewish areas. ties might well surpass any display of President Trump was right to undo the Bard, Times of Israel) Since Jerusalem was reunited 50 years air power seen in military history thus damage wrought by his predecessor. ago, three of the world’s major reli- far. (Alan M. Dershowitz, The Hill) The Israel Air Force, together with gions – Judaism, Christianity and Is- the Military Intelligence Directorate of lam – have thrived in the city. Today, in the IDF, has been quietly developing one square kilometer, more function- the ability to use precise intelligence, ing churches, mosques and synagogues combined with precision-guided weap- exist in the Old City of Jerusalem than onry, to destroy up to several thousand anywhere else in the world. And Jeru- targets in just a matter of hours. salemites have respected freedom of As ISIS crumbles and the remain- religion, freedom of movement and der of the Syrian Sunni rebels face de- freedom of expression for all the city’s feat in Syria, Iran, which runs Assad’s residents. These values are what distin- Honest, caring and ground war, will be free to shift the guish us from our enemies. These are knowledgable advice focus of its Syrian presence toward Is- not just Israeli values – they are values about assisted rael. (Yaakov Lappin, BESA Center for that we share with our strongest ally, Strategic Studies, Bar-Ilan University) the United States. living options… President Trump’s bold decision ISRAEL JOINS U.S. brings us one step closer to peace. The at no cost to you! TO BRING SOLAR POWER certainty provided by the official U.S. Personal and professional TO AFRICA recognition of Jerusalem as the eternal advice for you or a loved one Israel will join the U.S. Agency for and indivisible capital of Israel will en- when you need it the most International Development’s Power hance, not weaken, the peace process. (Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat, Jerusa- Africa program, connecting millions Bruce B. Rosenblatt, Owner of people to electricity with renewable lem Post) Senior Housing Expert PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT 239.595.0207 OUR FEDERATION & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE. www.SeniorHousingSolutions.net For All Your Southwest Florida Real Estate Needs
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Phone 239-936-0635 Visit Our Website www.taschnerperio.com L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 24 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties COMMENTARY / FROM THE BIMAH
Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. Endings and beginnings Support in our community n a typical evening, most of us in the book of Joshua, the book imme- tarting a secular new year is a It should go without saying that the eat dinner, maybe watch TV or diately following Deuteronomy, which natural time for reminiscences Pantry and the Fund always need more Oread, brush our teeth and are ends with the death of Moses. In the Sand taking stock of the changes donations, and I know you’ll want to asleep by midnight. On New Year’s first nine verses of Joshua, God tells in ourselves and in all that is around do your fair share. Eve however, many of us will put on him three times “chazek v’ematz,” be us. It is also a time for measuring what One really outstanding extension of party clothes, drink champagne, stay strong and resolute. we’ve lost. the Jewish Federation’s human servic- up late, and welcome This is how we as Jews mark an Thinking about it, es is its monthly Senior Lunch held in in the new year 2018. ending: We say chazak first for the over the decades I’ve revolving synagogues in our area. The Our secular celebra- past. We ask God to help us be strong, witnessed quite a few Federation’s free Senior Lunches are tion of the new year chazak, in letting go, in saying good- changes in our Jewish more than just meals. They are an im- is precisely that – a bye. It takes strength to acknowledge community, almost all portant means for regular Jewish com- celebration of the the past, reflect upon it and feel ready to for the better. panionship for people who often are new year. We don’t move on. We say chazak second for the I’ve seen several too isolated. Moreover, these lunches so much mark the future. We ask God to make us strong, rabbis come and go, are used as a creative outreach tool to Rabbi end of the year, as chazak, in entering the unknown. We Rabbi and had the solemn find and keep track of aging members Nicole count down to the need strength to enter a new beginning, Bruce honor of presiding of our community, ready to offer a life- Luna beginning of a new to welcome a new life, to readjust and Diamond over the funerals of line whenever needed. We’ve already one. Our new year’s celebrations are learn new ways. two of them, my dear friend Rabbi Si- hosted three of these luncheons at The full of joy and revelry, encouraging Finally, we repeat chazak a third mon Friedemann of Temple Beth El, Community Free Synagogue, and al- us to look forward, rather than help time, saying v’nitchazek, meaning and Community Rabbi Albert Cohen of ways look forward to the next one! us understand or make meaning of the “may we be strengthened.” Endings Cape Coral and Lehigh. I’ve especially These Senior Lunches happen each past. and beginnings are part of the human enjoyed watching newly-arrived rabbis month at different synagogues and are In contrast, we approach the end condition. We remind ourselves that trying to put down roots and do their open to all at no charge. Don’t miss the of the book of Genesis, read on the we are not alone, that we are part of a best to impress their unique visions next one at noon on Thursday, January last Shabbat in 2017, in a Jewish way. community with rituals that guide us, upon their congregations, always with 18 at Temple Beth El, 16225 Winkler Whenever we reach the end of a book people who support us, and a God who the hope of moving things forward. Road, Fort Myers. Just call Jodi Cohen of Torah, we recite the special phrase comforts us. I am equally impressed with the at the Federation at 239.481.4449 x6 to “Chazak, chazak, v’nitchazek.” “Be So no matter the ending we experi- ever-expanding level of human ser- let her know you’re coming. strong, be strong, may we be strength- ence – watching our children develop, vices the Jewish Federation of Lee It is often observed that the mea- ened.” The origins of the phrase come completing medical treatment, entering and Charlotte Counties provides to our sure of a community is how it cares for from a very significant end in Jewish into a new year or completing a book community. The Federation leadership its most vulnerable. Thanks to inspired history – the death of Moses. Moses, of Torah – we say “chazak, chazak – both volunteer and professional – is leaders and volunteers, our little Jew- God’s prophet, is gone, and Joshua is v’nitchazek” – may we be strong in let- really on the right track and deserves ish community is certainly coming of meant to lead the people. How does ting go of the past, may we be strong the community’s gratitude and support. age and is on a wonderful trajectory. As it feel to follow in Moses’s footsteps? in welcoming the future, and may we Of course, there is the Food Pantry they say in Hebrew: “Yaylkhu mehayil God immediately reassures Joshua, find strength in each one another and and the holiday gift bag delivery, but ‘el hayil – May they go from one he- saying “chazak v’ematz: Be strong in God. there is also a great deal more behind- roic act to the next!” and resolute, do not be terrified or dis- Rabbi Nicole Luna serves at Temple the-scenes direct support the Jewish Rabbi Bruce Diamond serves at The mayed, for Adonai your God is with Beth El in Fort Myers. Federation provides to those in crisis, Community Free Synagogue in Fort you wherever you go.” We read this is especially through the Indigent Fund. Myers. th A 30 anniversary, Soviet Jews, here’s a group of regulars at the gym at 5:45 a.m. with whom I and the making of history Texchange pleasantries before By David Harris, AJC CEO, November 29, 2017 I begin my workout. One woman – n December 6, 1987, 30 years so-called, if misnamed, “establish- In the end, more than 250,000 profoundly transforming the countrywho’s walking out the door when I ago, more than 250,000 people ment” and the “activists.” (Having been people participated, including, it should and revitalizing the Zionist spirit. first get there! – has engaged me in gathered in Washington to call detained twice by Soviet authorities, be noted, a sizable number of non-Jews. Unexpectedly, Germany became theconversation from time to time. One O day she asked me on the Kremlin to open the gates and let expelled from the country once, de- The weather was brisk but sunny. There fastest-growing Diaspora community in Soviet Jews emigrate. Freedom Sunday, nied entry to the USSR because of my was no shortage of prominent speak- the world, with tens of thousands of new what I did for a liv- as it came to be known, was the largest “past political history,” and involved ers, among them U.S. Vice President arrivals from the Soviet space. And the ing. When I told her, Jewish-organized gathering in American in clandestinely sending thousands of George H.W. Bush. Indeed, one of the U.S. drew hundreds of thousands, to the she said, “Oh, I grew history. Jewish books and other items to Soviet biggest challenges, in the end, turned point where more than ten percent of the up in a Jewish family The timing was not random. Jews, was I disqualified from being an out to be trying to manage the large Jewish community hails from the Soviet but now, I guess, I’m Soviet President Mikhail Gor- “activist” because I was connected to number of political and civic leaders, Union – or now, in one of my favorite Messianic,” showing bachev was scheduled to meet with U.S. an “establishment” organization, the former Soviet Jewish prisoners and sets of initials, the FSU. me her Magen David President Ronald Reagan in the White American Jewish Committee?) Would refuseniks, and other notable figures Not only is this whole story im- and her cross. I kept House the very next day. It was to be everyone put aside their perceived dif- who wanted to speak – and, more often portant in and of itself, but it can also my smile but felt a the Soviet leader’s first official visit ferences and stand together as one for than not, ignored the strict time limit we serve as a case study in what is possible, deep pain. Another to the U.S. since he assumed office in this single day? put on each speech! against all the odds, if only the Jewish Jew has left our people. A couple of 1985, following the death of Konstantin Much credit goes to Natan Sharan- Media coverage was extensive. people stand together, persevere and days later, I tried to give her my card, Chernenko. sky, the legendary prisoner of con- Perhaps most significantly, Voice of join forces with others of good will. Yet,but she avoided me. She wasn’t inter- In 1987, the number of Jews al- science who spent nine years in the America broadcast the rally to Soviet disappointingly, the event seems largelyested in coming back. lowed to leave the USSR was pitifully Soviet camps before being released in listeners, which, we later learned, was to have faded from view, rarely cited And she was not the only one. I low. Many Soviet Jews continued to 1986, for setting the organizers’ sights a huge morale boost for Jews sitting by in synagogues, schools or communal had two other recent encounters with languish in the Gulag for their activism, high. He insisted that there must be a their radios. discussion. people who, when they learned that I while some refusenik families had been mass rally, and set the goal at 250,000 And, as has been documented, when December 6 is a date worth re-was a rabbi, said that they had grown living in limbo behind the Iron Curtain participants. Frankly, no one had a clue Reagan and Gorbachev met in the Oval membering and celebrating for what itup in Jewish families but were no lon- for years, if not longer. how we might attain the number, but Office the next day, the American leader achieved – and, above all, as a tellingger Jewish. I feel a stab of pain every I had the privilege of serving as the Sharansky, given his personal history cited the rally as an unmistakable ex- reminder of what is potentially withintime I hear this. I wonder, “Where did national coordinator of Freedom Sun- of staring down the KGB, was not easy pression of public opinion and urged his our grasp. we fail this family? What spiritual need day. It was an indescribably exhilarating to dissuade. Soviet counterpart to heed the message. did we not fulfill? How was it so easy and inspiring experience, but there were It was extraordinary to watch those The rest, as they say, is history. The AJC West Coast Florida to walk out the door of Judaism and the challenges aplenty. 35 days of preparation unfold. Most The gates began to open and Soviet office, located in Sarasota, Jewish people?” First, we had barely five weeks’ striking was to see the response of Jews started to leave in large numbers. can be reached at These are not new Jewish ques- notice of Gorbachev’s arrival date to Jewish communities across the United Eventually, more than a million Rus- tions. Throughout our history, whenev- plan the event. The myriad details, big States, in Canada and in other countries. sian-speaking Jews settled in Israel, 941.365.4955. er we’ve lived in a society that is open, and small, made it a 24/7 job for the Reports would trickle in of, first, one bus some of us have left the Jewish people. dedicated team in charge of assembling or planeload from a given city or college The late Arthur Hertzberg wrote about the pieces. campus, then an updated report of two, American Jews, that three generations Second, the previous record atten- or three, or four, or five. What do you think? after each wave of Jewish immigration dance for a Jewish rally in Washington Anecdotally, the organizers also to this country, roughly one-third has was 12-13,000 people. That was to began hearing about those planning to left the Jewish community. support Israel in a defining time of war show up who said they had never before I know that this is not the whole – June 1967. attended a protest rally, but felt this was L’CHAYIM wants to know! picture. I regularly get calls from peo- What would our number look like history in the making and wanted to be Send your letters and comments to Ted Epstein, ple who are interested in becoming against that unimpressive backdrop, a part of it. Jewish. At my congregation, Jews-by- especially in the dead of winter? Could a It was especially noteworthy to see L’CHAYIM Editor, at [email protected]. choice are active in all areas of syna- poor turnout actually damage the Soviet how many times people referred to the gogue life. All branches of the Jewish Jewry cause by signaling to the Kremlin Holocaust, citing the ineffectiveness Letters Policy community have people embracing Ju- a low level of interest in the issue? of the Jewish community here during Letters must include the writer’s full name, full address and daytime phone. daism and the Jewish people. This in- And third, despite the impression the Second World War and saying that Letters should be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length of a united Soviet Jewry movement, American Jews needed to learn the les- and/or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of L’CHAYIM Reach 5,000 local Jewish residents through L’CHAYIM. there were deep fissures between the sons of their own history and speak out. nor its advertisers. We cannot acknowledge or publish every letter received. For more information or to place an ad, call Jim Lewin at 239.634.6923. L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 FROM THE BIMAH Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 25
Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. The feminist leaning Man is likened to a tree It should go without saying that the Pantry and the Fund always need moreof the Bible in the field donations, and I know you’ll want to ften, people say how biased Moses is unquestionably the Bi- he holiday of Tu B’shevat is In addition, there are various laws do your fair share. Jewish tradition is against ble’s most important figure, but he celebrated this year on January and customs concerning eating fruit One really outstanding extension ofO women beginning with the owes his entire career to the vital in- T31. Tu B’shevat is the New Year from new trees and cross-breeding dif- the Jewish Federation’s human servic-Hebrew Bible. A closer look at biblical tervention of no fewer than six women: for Trees. A New Year for Trees, in and ferent types of fruit-bearing trees. es is its monthly Senior Lunch held instories presents the opposite viewpoint. Shifrah, Puah, Miriam, Yocheved, Pha- of itself, might not seem like a very Man is likened to a tree in the field. revolving synagogues in our area. The Over and over again in the Bible raoh’s daughter and his wife Zipporah. important holiday If a seed or seedling is planted in rich, Federation’s free Senior Lunches are it is the woman who Without them, Moses never would to celebrate or even well-dug soil, given proper care, sun more than just meals. They are an im- gets it and the man have become our liberator, lawgiver acknowledge. And and water, it will grow strong, deep portant means for regular Jewish com- who is clueless. Eve and leader. Through their stories and yet it is celebrated roots and produce beautiful, healthy panionship for people who often are has been maligned commentaries, the rabbis of the Tal- in various ways with fruit. too isolated. Moreover, these lunches for generations for mud and Midrash embellish each of different customs all An infant or young child, placed in are used as a creative outreach tool to the so-called fall of their roles. (For more on the six wom- over the world. an environment rich in Judaism, given find and keep track of aging members man, but really she is en who saved Moses’ life, see chapter It would be ap- a well-thought-out education, proper of our community, ready to offer a life- the heroine of the el- X, “Six Women Heroes: Where Would Rabbi propriate to mention care and other necessities, will grow line whenever needed. We’ve already Rabbi evation of humanity. We Be without Them,” in What’s in It Yitzchok a few thoughts about strong deep roots in his own heritage Minkowicz hosted three of these luncheons at The Stephen It was she, not her for Me? Finding Ourselves in Biblical the significance of and produce accomplishments and Fuchs Community Free Synagogue, and al- husband, who per- Narratives, available on amazon.com) trees in Judaism. We are told, for in- achievements that are beautiful and ways look forward to the next one! ceived that life in Eden – while idyl- In our day, only the complete and stance, that if one is planting a tree and healthy. These Senior Lunches happen eachlic – was sterile and essentially without unquestioned equality of women and is informed that Moshiach has arrived, May we all merit to raise our own month at different synagogues and aremeaning. It was she who saw (Genesis men is the acceptable goal. We have he must first finish planting the tree be- children, to help others raise their chil- va-nechmad made great progress, but we still have fore he goes on to anything else. dren, or to raise the “child within” to be) «ליכשהל ץעה דמחנו ,(open to all at no charge. Don’t miss the3:6 next one at noon on Thursday, Januaryha-etz l’has-keel), the tree of knowl- a long way to go. Whenever the Jews were involved beautiful, healthy and “fruit-bearing.” 18 at Temple Beth El, 16225 Winkleredge was desirable as a source of wis- The task of our generation is two- in a war, they were enjoined never to Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz serves at Road, Fort Myers. Just call Jodi Cohen dom; she took of its fruit and ate. fold: cut down a fruit-bearing tree, so pre- Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Flor- at the Federation at 239.481.4449 x6 to Other examples abound. Rebecca 1. To interpret the Bible to all of cious are they considered. ida. let her know you’re coming. understands God’s plan, but her hus- those who will hear our voices and/or It is often observed that the mea-band Isaac is literally and figuratively, read our words so that women receive sure of a community is how it cares forin the dark. Judah evolves from the the enormous credit they are due for The Sabbath paused its most vulnerable. Thanks to inspiredman who sold his brother away as a the roles they play, and credit they do leaders and volunteers, our little Jew-slave to the man who would not leave not receive in traditional circles. and poised ish community is certainly coming ofhis other brother behind through the 2. To continue the forward progress ow often do we receive ad- Forethought, Action and Reflection. age and is on a wonderful trajectory. As tutelage of his daughter-in-law Tamar. in women’s rights begun by the Sages vice? Welcome it? Ignore it? This vocabulary of equivalents they say in Hebrew: “Yaylkhu mehayil Hannah is savvy and aware. Her of the Mishnah until women and men Often even resent it? serves as the critical context for an ‘el hayil – May they go from one he-husband Elkanah, and Eli, the high are held in completely equal regard. H “Look before you leap!” “Stop, analysis of the role of pause: roic act to the next!” priest of Israel, just don’t get it. Ra- Rabbi Stephen Lewis Fuchs serves at look and listen!” “Think ahead!” “You 1. Stop Rabbi Bruce Diamond serves at Thehab, Vashti, Esther, Ruth, Deborah and Bat Yam Temple of the Islands on Sani- only have one chance to make a good This first step of pause is absolute. Community Free Synagogue in FortYael… the list of female heroes is long, bel Island. first impression!” No movement back or forward, up or Myers. and their influence is substantial. But typically, what do we often do? down. Total stasis. Completely inert. We plunge ahead. Pause is a state of zero, the ultimate “What could we do better?” We ignore all the state of receptivity. In a condition of here’s a group of regulars at the flux of people searching for a religious warning signs and stop, you are opened to movements not gym at 5:45 a.m. with whom I home, some not coming with a Jewish flashing lights. And of your own making or control. exchange pleasantries before partner, gives me joy. what happens? We 2. Look T wind up a bull in a Stop not only changes time but also I begin my workout. One woman – But even with the good news of who’s walking out the door when I people joining us, every person who china shop; breaking space. Perspective expands incremen- rules of polite entry; tally. The near becomes far, the range first get there! – has engaged me in walks away hurts. While I believe that Rabbi conversation from time to time. One synagogues must keep their doors wide asking stupid ques- stretches easily to the horizon, and in- Devora tions; persuading all explicably, an awareness of an interior day she asked me open to anyone who walks in, I don’t Buchen what I did for a liv- know if we can get many of these peo- there that we lack space equal in size emerges simulta- ing. When I told her, ple back. I do think there are things we forethought and don’t know what we neously. Everything is magnified, -en she said, “Oh, I grew can do to improve our product. Here are doing. Awkward mumbled apolo- larged to almost global proportions. up in a Jewish family are two: gies or oops do nothing to hide the im- Initially, overwhelming and unusable, but now, I guess, I’m Jewish education must be excel- pression that you are now perceived as the state of look suggests beginnings; a Messianic,” showing lent. It must teach children to read questionable or damaged goods. beginning almost of the order and scale me her Magen David Hebrew – and even comprehend But why then do we do it again and of original creation. Rabbi and her cross. I kept some Hebrew – and to be very again? And in many different settings: 3. Listen Marc my smile but felt a comfortable with the siddur. The work, social gatherings, meetings, Total silence. There is no sound. All is Sack deep pain. Another late Neil Gillman, the dean of the public events, private life, etc. totally still. But suddenly the silence is Jew has left our people. A couple of Rabbinical School at JTS during There are many explanations. A broken by of all things my breathing. days later, I tried to give her my card, my years there, told us this: “Your basic one is that we have not been edu- To be sure, it is now somewhat more but she avoided me. She wasn’t inter- congregants will be highly ac- cated to value pause. Instead, we have labored and anxious by the recent ested in coming back. complished professionals in their created a culture that binds success to changes in stop and listen. But it soon And she was not the only one. I everyday lives. They won’t walk speed. We generated an expectation calms down as it takes over and slowly had two other recent encounters with into the synagogue if they cannot that there is not enough to go around adjust its tempo, depth and focus. people who, when they learned that I follow the service and feel un- for everyone except for risk takers and Almost magically the initially dis- was a rabbi, said that they had grown comfortable every time they do.” I short cutters. The net result is a con- tant landscape of stop and the frozen up in Jewish families but were no lon- have never forgotten that. vergence of the short term and the state of time and of listen become less ger Jewish. I feel a stab of pain every No one should be denied access to abandonment of the big picture. We hostile and oppositional as the breath- time I hear this. I wonder, “Where did Jewish life because of money. We get there faster but it may not be where ing deepens and softens the edges of we fail this family? What spiritual need in synagogue life certainly know we want to be. And in the process, we contrasts. All begin to merge into one did we not fulfill? How was it so easy that it is hard work to raise the emerge smaller, more humbled and di- aligned vision in which stop, look and to walk out the door of Judaism and the money to keep our lights on and minished. listen are integrated and made one. Jewish people?” our programs going. We need ev- What can pause do? It is the cul- And then the final gift of pause ap- These are not new Jewish ques- eryone to contribute whatever they ture of creative hesitation. Is it an occa- pears; the first-time perception of our- tions. Throughout our history, whenev- can. But we also want Jewish life sional or even a one-time intervention? selves in the rare state not of always er we’ve lived in a society that is open, to be open to everyone who wants If we step back and view the basic stag- becoming but of Being – and then of some of us have left the Jewish people. to participate. es of all operations, we find the follow- being welcomed into the embracing The late Arthur Hertzberg wrote about We in organized Jewish life must ing recurrent sequence: Before, During world of the Sabbath as if we always American Jews, that three generations constantly ask ourselves, “What can and After. Two additional matching belonged there, all the time. after each wave of Jewish immigration we do better?” All healthy communi- sets of more familiar equivalents might Rabbi Devora Buchen serves at Temple to this country, roughly one-third has ties must ask that question. Every time be added: Past, Present and Future; or Beth Shalom in Cape Coral. left the Jewish community. I hear someone say, “I grew up in a I know that this is not the whole Jewish family,” I wonder what went picture. I regularly get calls from peo- wrong. The vitality of our people ne- For a continuously updated ple who are interested in becoming cessitates our asking how we can im- Jewish. At my congregation, Jews-by- prove what we do, to make it much calendar of events, visit choice are active in all areas of syna- harder to walk out the Jewish door. gogue life. All branches of the Jewish Rabbi Marc Sack serves at Temple community have people embracing Ju- Judea in Fort Myers. www.JewishFederationLCC.org. daism and the Jewish people. This in- Reach 5,000 local Jewish residents through L’CHAYIM. For more information or to place an ad, call Jim Lewin at 239.634.6923. L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 26 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties FOCUS ON YOUTH PJ LIBRARY RADIO LIVE!
Bar / Bat Mitzvah Specialist Choosing the right photographer is an important decision. Michael Shapiro has more than 30 years experience in media and journalism. He is able to capture images that are unique, unexpected and spontaneous.
Now PJ library families can listen to Jewish kids music — anytime, anywhere. Introducing PJLibraryRadio.com, an online streaming radio station with more than 2,000 songs from hundreds of artists across the globe. Music is available 24/7 with special music blocks for Shabbat, Holiday and Bedtime.
Other Services: Weddings / Family Portraits / Events • Listen to the music online 239.770.6860 • Download the free app on ITunes, Google Play [email protected] or Tune In Radio www.shapiro-photography.com High School Students: Earn CAS Credits! The Jewish Federation of Lee STAY IN TOUCH and Charlotte Counties is Sign up for e-blasts! interested in hearing from teenagers in high school who might like to earn CAS credits though various work GET THE LATEST INFORMATION ON in the Jewish community. UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS, CULTURAL ACTIVITIES, If you are interested, BREAKING NEWS, please send the UPDATES FROM ISRAEL & MORE. following information to [email protected]: Name Address
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PJ LIBRARY HOLIDAY PROGRAMS for families with children ages 2 8 years
January 25 February 22 Bring your children to enjoy Temple Beth El Community Free Synagogue an hour of stories, arts & crafts, “Planting for Tu B’Shevat” “Getting Ready for Purim” 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. games, a light dinner and more in celebration of upcoming Jewish holidays. There is no cost to attend. The programs are open to everyone March 6 April 26 with children ages 2-8. Shalom Life Center Temple Judea “Celebrating Passover” “Fun on Lag B’Omer” 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
RSVP to Leni at [email protected] or 239 481 4449 Ext. 3 L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 FOCUS ON YOUTH Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 27
forward in their learning. TEMPLE JUDEA SCHOOLS We wrapped up PJ LIBRARY RADIO LIVE! Fort Myers our monthly value of “B’tselem Elohim – Be- Temple Judea Religious School ing Made in God’s Image,” and began Liz Singer learning about the new value “Gvurah Dir. of Congregational Learning – Strength,” which intentionally coin- In December we celebrated our 3rd cided with learning about Hanukkah graders who recently began their B’nai and, more specifically, the story of the Mitzvah journey with the addition of Maccabees. Meanwhile, our various Hebrew School to their weekly sched- chugim (clubs) have also been very ule. They join older students who have busy. The music chug has everyone greeting “Boker Tov, Boker Tov, Boker tov, tov, tov.” The cooking chug has been making Now PJ library families can listen to Jewish kids knishes and rugelach, all while learning about the history of music — anytime, anywhere. the foods. The media chug has been busy working on a Candle lighting times: Introducing PJLibraryRadio.com, an online project where they have been streaming radio station with more than 2,000 songs documenting on film various January 5: 5:32 community members’ stories from hundreds of artists across the globe. of their Jewish journey. So ev- Music is available 24/7 with special music blocks eryone has been very busy and January 12: 5:37 for Shabbat, Holiday and Bedtime. learning the entire scope of the Jewish experience. January 19: 5:42 On January 19 we will be handing over the Friday night • Listen to the music online January 26: 5:48 services, which will be tai- • Download the free app on ITunes, Google Play already been displaying their commit- lored for our congregation by our very or Tune In Radio ment by attending Hebrew School. The own Madrichim (teen helpers). They students received their very own siddur will put a contemporary spin on our Results of and kippah, both of which are person- traditional service with readings and a recent alized and will be used as they move new spins on familiar prayers. As al- national ways, our services are open to survey of the public, and this is definite- 25,000 ly one not to miss. On January families 28, the Religious School will conducted by be hosting our firstYom Limud PJ Library (Day of Learning). We invite students of all ages to come Parents in Lee to the synagogue so that it PJ Library is and Charlotte may be a school for all. Both counties whose making a children and adults on this day children are difference in the will be focusing their learning enrolled in lives of families on the holiday of Tu B’Shevat. PJ Library raising Jewish Hopefully, this will be the be- participated in ginning of a long holiday tra- the survey. children.. dition at Temple Judea.
fully donated by our own TEMPLE BETH EL SCHOOLS Suzanne Orkin. Fort Myers We had a wonderful Chanukah celebration Temple Beth El Religious School this year. Todah rabah to our incredible Dale M. Cohen, R.J.E., MA.Ed. Vice President for Education, Vanessa DISCOVER Religious School is ready to forge into Sax, and our outstanding Karen Kagan the year 2018. Time is going by too for always going above and beyond the THE FUN! quickly and it seems like we just fin- call of duty. We have equally incred- ished celebrating Rosh Hashanah (not ible volunteers who always step up to really, but it sounds good). I hope that the plate. Todah rabah to my husband everyone had a wonderful Chanukah, Nir and the latke crew, the entire Sax winter break, and a great New Year’s family and many others for your un- celebration, and are ready to get back wavering support of our scrumptious into the swing of things. latkes. Karen, Evan and Abby Kagan Religious School will officially have been awesome at always helping resume Sunday, January 7 (this is a me out. I am eternally grateful for that. makeup day from Hurricane Irma) and Our next Junior Congregation will RECEIVE Wednesday, January 10. be held on Saturday, January 20. Please THE GIFT We have some wonderful additions note that this is a mandatory part of our to our current curriculum. Isaac Osin curriculum for students in grades 4 OF FREE (who is currently baking our delicious through 7. This is a wonderful oppor- JEWISH PJ LIBRARY HOLIDAY PROGRAMS challahs for Shabbat) will be baking tunity to be introduced to the Saturday with our Religious School students, morning liturgy. Parents, you are en- CHILDREN’S for families with children ages 2 8 years and my husband Nir will be cooking couraged to attend with your children. BOOKS some Israeli specialties with our stu- Our Tu B’Shevat celebration will MAILED TO dents as well. be held on Sunday, January 28 during Thank you to our students, parents Religious School. The Torah praises YOUR HOME January 25 February 22 and congregants who participated in seven fruits, particularly grapes, figs, Bring your children to enjoy SHARE the experience EVERY MONTH! Temple Beth El Community Free Synagogue our World’s Finest Chocolate fundrais- pomegranates, olives and dates. We an hour of stories, arts & crafts, er. It grossed approximately $900 to will have a special Tu B’Shevat seder of reading with your “Planting for Tu B’Shevat” “Getting Ready for Purim” help fund our many Religious School and will plant seedlings, decorate pots children as they grow with Funded by the games, a light dinner and more in activities and programs. Mazel tov to and sample many species of fruit dur- PJ Library books. 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. Aliza Litvak, winner of the raffle. I am ing the seder. Roth Family celebration of upcoming Jewish sure that she and her family will be en- Please note, there will be no Reli- SIGN UP TODAY! Foundation holidays. There is no cost to attend. joying that 5-pound chocolate bar for gious School on Sunday, January 14 in & weeks to come, Grimaldi’s, gelt for the honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Enrollment is open to Asher Family The programs are open to everyone movie, and movie tickets, so thought- Jewish families with Foundation March 6 April 26 with children ages 2-8. children between the Shalom Life Center Temple Judea ages of six months to eight years “Celebrating Passover” “Fun on Lag B’Omer” More information, ConneCt living in Lee & Charlotte contact Leni Sack 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. with your Jewish Community Counties. 239.481.4449 ext. 3 [email protected] www.facebook.com/ RSVP to Leni at [email protected] or 239 481 4449 Ext. 3 facebook.com/jfedsrq JewishFederationLCC Families can sign up for PJ Library at pjlibrary.org L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 28 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ORGANIZATIONS
love and care, as if by Florida Jewish Pioneers Film Series, nity is a lesson many of us will ben- JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY family members. And Murray’s Mile will premiere at this efit from. My resolution for 2018 is to OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA that’s the way it is – event, which is expected to sell out. make certain all our Southwest Florida (239) 566-1771 each oral-visual history The Honorary Chairman is Naples Jewish Pioneers get their stories cap- participant becomes a Mayor Bill Barnett. Collier County tured. May 2018 bring to the Jewish 2018 Florida Jewish History Month JHSSWF “family.” Sheriff Kevin Rambosk and U.S. Rep- Historical Society of SWFL and to allLawrence & Robin Dermer Marina Berkovich As for me, after all the time I per- resentative and former U.S. Ambassa- Jews, unbroken peace and mazel in theThe Talmud states: “I did not find the It is now practically a given that there sonally researched Abraham Myers’ dor Francis Rooney headline the long year of Chai. world desolate when I entered it. My will be many organizations and insti- life, I am pretty proud to have him as list of dignitaries. Explore the early Jewish life ofparents planted for me before I was tutions offering a variety of choices to my Southern “ancestor” along with all Individual tickets are $85 and Southwest Florida at Virtual Museumborn, so do I plant for all those who honor this month in Southwest Florida. his troubles. If you attended our 2017 may be purchased by check or online of Southwest Florida Jewish Historywill come after me.” Hard to imagine that just a few years Master Classes, you learned about at https://jhsmurrayhendel.eventbrite. by going to http://jewishhistorysouth The family has always been central ago this was not an event on anyone’s some of his failures and trials, and his com, or email [email protected]. westflorida.org/. to Jewish life and culture. For our Jew- agenda. marriage, which effectively ended the To advertise in the event program, Our Mission ish community to be vital and strong, The Jewish Historical Society of Jewish line of his name, while immor- purchase a table or become an event Collecting, protecting and preservingwe should embrace who we are today, SWFL likes to think we helped it along talizing it as Fort Myers. sponsor or a Society member, please Jewish history to celebrate the contri-realizing we no longer live in the 20th by introducing many fascinating sto- “The Timeline of Southwest Flor- email [email protected]. bution by Jews in Southwest Florida century or in the time of Abraham. To- ries of our Southwest Florida Jewish ida Jewish History” is a presentation It is customary to summarize the every day of every year is part of ourday, we come from many different and Pioneers. We put on programs, like that will be added to our Virtual Muse- outgoing year and make resolutions mission. diverse backgrounds and continue to the Southwest Florida Jewish History um and taken on the road in 2018, with for the coming year just about now, Become a member of JHSSWF, a redefine what it means to be a family. Master Classes, and interview eyewit- the help and support of our members so I will say that following in Mur- sponsor, business associate, volunteerWe live in the 21st century, and face the nesses of the fairly young local Jew- and volunteers. ray’s footsteps for a part of 2017 has and/or donor. Contact us at: challenges of life in a rapidly changing ish history. Many of you have already JHSSWF membership is on the in- shown me that nothing is impossible if The Jewish Historical Society world. The times may change but what discovered our expanding Virtual Mu- crease, and we encourage you to begin one wants to break barriers, create new of Southwest Florida remains constant for us is the tradition seum of Southwest Florida Jewish His- this month by renewing yours, sub- paths, leave a lasting positive impres- 899 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 116, tory and explored excerpts from the scribing to our lists, and attending our sion rooted in dignified honesty and Naples FL 34108 interviews and clips from the films we 2018 Florida Jewish History Month integrity, even when at times, opinions 239.566.1771 produce. Celebration with Murray Hendel at the and goals may clash or collide, and ad- [email protected] ~ www.jhsswf.org We hear from some of our “stars” Hilton Naples on Sunday, January 21 versaries may be numerous and relent- The Jewish Historical Society of that they are pleased to see that their at 11:00 a.m. less. Murray’s determination to make Southwest Florida is a section 501(c) stories were presented with warmth, The sixth film in the Southwest a meaningful impact on this commu- (3) charitable organization.
bonds of cooperation and proposed Palestinian state, Jerusalem, because they expected an Arab military ZIONIST ORG. of AMERICA mutual help with the sov- lack of recognition of Israel as a Jew- victory which would annihilate the Zi- Southwest Florida Chapter ereign Jewish people set- ish state, and other seemingly irrecon- onists. They thought they could leave (914) 329-1024 tled in its own land. The cilable problems, but none greater than temporarily and return at their leisure. State of Israel is prepared the Nakba. Later, an additional claim was put ZOA presents to do its share in a common effort for Disputing the realities of war, forth, namely that the Palestinians were Dr. Asaf Romirowsky the advancement of the entire Middle sources sympathetic to the Arab view- ordered to leave, with radio broadcasts Jerrold L. Sobel East.” point have since claimed the events of instructing them to quit their homes. On May 14, 1948 (5 lyar 5708 in the The very next day, a day the Pales- 1948 as a fulfillment of a long dreamed- On Wednesday January 10, world- Jewish calendar), David Ben-Gurion, tinians would come to regret, five Arab of Zionist plan to rid Palestine of its renowned Middle East researcher Dr. the Executive Head of the World Zi- armies descended upon the nascent Arab population, expelling them from Asaf Romirowsky will return to our onist Organization and the Chairman Jewish state with the expressed intent their homes, and transforming Pales- area and speak at Chabad Jewish Cen- of Jewish Agency for Palestine, pro- of genocide. They failed to achieve this tine into a Jewish state. As a holy grail ter of Naples (1789 Mandarin Rd.). claimed the Declaration of Israeli In- goal and, for all intents and purposes, to this argument, Palestinians are in- His topic of discussion will be “Nakba: dependence. No doubt the seminal mo- the Arab/Israeli conflict of 1948 has sistent that not only those displaced by The Source of Arab Israeli Conflict.” ment in modern Jewish history due to not yet ended. As a consequence of this the war be allowed the right of return Tickets are $20 in advance and events just prior. war, Islamists throughout the world but their progeny as well. $22 at the door; $7 for students. Send Concluding the Declaration in the have ruefully commemorated May 15, Jewish historians vehemently dis- your check to ZOASWFL, 4003 Upolo second to last paragraph, Ben-Gurion 1948, as the “Day of Disaster,” or “Na- pute this claim and offer that the Arabs Lane, Naples, FL 34119. For further stated, “We extend our hand to all kba” in Arabic. in Palestine were asked to stay and live information, contact me at jerrysobel@ neighboring states and their peoples in There are many foundational pil- as citizens in the Jewish state. Instead, aol.com or 914.329.1024. an offer of peace and good neighbor- lars which have festered this genera- they chose to leave, either because they liness, and appeal to them to establish tional conflict: potential borders of a were unwilling to live with the Jews, or
[email protected] or gions, but sometimes the most impor- to escape oppression, are modern-day HUMANISTIC JEWISH HAVURAH 239.591.0101. tant differences can be found within a exiles. of Southwest Florida Samar lived in Ku- religious tradition. There are no more Currently, Muslims in America are (239) 495-8484 wait, Lebanon, Saudi than 15 million Jews in the world, yet experiencing Islamophobia. Though Arabia, Egypt and Jordan this small group contains tremendous nothing like the Holocaust, it bears A look at anti-Semitism before moving to the U.S. in 1989. She diversity. Differences of religious ob- a remarkable similarity to the anti- and Islamophobia worked as a TV editor and reporter in servance divide ultra-Orthodox and Semitism Jews experienced through- Paula Creed Jordan. She holds a master’s degree in secular Jews – for example, in the ad- out their long history. We remember Are you interested in hearing an in- International Relations and served as a herence to kosher dietary laws. what it was like being persecuted as a telligent voice from the Muslim com- political science instructor at the Uni- Often people are aware of the dif- foreign ethnic religious minority. As munity address the prejudice and rac- versity of South Florida Tampa. Sa- ferences within their own groups but Jews we could understand the issues ist chaos going on in America? Samar mar co-hosts a weekly live radio show assume other groups to be homoge- facing Blacks who were discriminated Jarrah, a Kuwait-born Palestinian- called “True Talk” on WMNF 88.5 FM neous. This, unfortunately, seems to against, and now Muslims are seek- American, will be our presenter at in Tampa. The show addresses Arab be true of the way many Americans ing that same understanding from us. 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 21 in the Muslim issues. perceive Muslims. If we think about The question to consider is whether as David G. Willens Community Room If one were to take a course on the diversity among 15 million Jews Americans we are ready to stand with at the Federation office. To make your world religions, one would expect to worldwide, or among more than 300 Muslims during their plight? reservation, contact Dena Sklaroff at learn about the differences among reli- million people of Christian heritage But Muslims in America are not in North America, how much more di- alone. There is the growing trend of versity is found among the one billion hating all minorities, especially Mus- Muslims around the world? A glance at lims and Jews. As a community that diversity of the Muslim world reveals knows prejudice and racism, might we that in the United States, about 35% be able to unite and help other commu- Each Tuesday afternoon, an open session of Mah Jongg are South Asian, 33% are Middle East- nities? Is this the time for Americans is held at the Jewish Federation. ern and 25% are African American. to think outside the narrow prism of There are also significant numbers of the Arab-Israeli conflict and unite as a Players must be at least advanced beginners, as no converts to Islam from diverse ethnic community with Muslims to help other lessons are given. traditions. minorities like Hispanics, refugees and There are also similarities between new immigrants? DAY: Tuesdays, 12:30~3:30 P.M. Judaism and Islam and, of course, all As Jewish humanists we believe FEE: $1 per week good people. Amir Hussain, professor the freedom and dignity of the Jewish in the Department of Theological Stud- people must go hand in hand with the
ies at Loyola Marymount University, freedom and dignity of every human at a 2007 Colloquium titled “Jews and being. the Muslim World: Solving the Puz- zle” held at the Birmingham Temple in Have an item you’d like Farmington Hills, Michigan, described three things: “First is the love of learn- to share? Need to reach ing. Second is the idea of social justice, the editor of L’CHAYIM?
and third is the notion of exile, a theme
for more information call that runs throughout the Jewish tradi- Send an email to Rona Strausberg at 239.949.9003 tion.” Muslims who have immigrated to the United States and Canada, often [email protected]. L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 ORGANIZATIONS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 29
of building our families mendous odds, the power of love and violinist who was hiding with him dur- SHALOM LIFE CENTER on love, nurturing, trust, togetherness prevailed, and the first ing World War II and his father’s fore- Fort Myers stability and joy. families of Judaism birthed the twelve sight, young Max had his first violin (239) 218-3433 Why is it that before tribes of Israel. The Jewish people as a lessons. He survived while his teacher the Torah gives us any whole are described as “B’nei Yisrael was caught and executed by the Nazis. Lawrence & Robin Dermer laws and commandments it describes – The Children of Israel,” not descen- Max went on to play with fellow solo- The Talmud states: “I did not find the the blessings and challenges of being dants of the land, but of our patriarch ists such as Isaac Stern and with com- world desolate when I entered it. My part of a family? Adam and Eve, Abra- Jacob, the grandson of Abraham. All posers such as Aaron Copland and Igor parents planted for me before I was ham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebecca – the children of Israel, all of us, are Stravinsky. Please join us on Friday, born, so do I plant for all those who their lives, like ours, were not simple part of one connected extended family. January 19 at 7:30 p.m., when we wel- will come after me.” or straightforward. Children fought We are all mishpacha, we are all fam- come our esteemed and talented spe- The family has always been central and made up, couples connected and ily, and family is the foundation upon cial guest speaker and performer, Max to Jewish life and culture. For our Jew- broke up, there was love, loyalty and which Shalom Life Center was built. Rabinovitsj. ish community to be vital and strong, happiness as well as lying, deceit and Each one of us has a unique story, a Mark your calendar for our next we should embrace who we are today, jealousy. The full range of emotions tale of the ties that bind us together as big concert event on Saturday, Janu- realizing we no longer live in the 20th existed, and through those familial one family. ary 13 at 7:30 p.m. Join us for “Captain century or in the time of Abraham. To- bonds and challenges the Jewish peo- One such story is that of Max Fantastic and the Kosher Cowboy,” a day, we come from many different and ple were born. Rabinovitsj, conductor of the Naples musical journey through the decades diverse backgrounds and continue to Family is the foundation upon Orchestra & Chorus, violinist and Ho- of Elton John hits and country music redefine what it means to be a family. which our Torah rests and is at the core locaust survivor. It is nothing short of a favorites. For more information and to We live in the 21st century, and face the of who we are as a Jewish people. G- miracle that Max is alive today to share RSVP, call 239.218.3433, email info@ challenges of life in a rapidly changing d’s promise to Abraham, “your chil- the magnificence of his music and his shalomlifecenter.org, or visit our web- world. The times may change but what dren shall be as numerous as stars in personal stories of his youth spent be- site at www.shalomlifecenter.org. remains constant for us is the tradition the sky,” was not in vain. Despite tre- ing hidden from the Nazis. Thanks to a
Medical Organization have a business that does matching, esting and educational. Lynn Weiner HADASSAH insures a vibrant Jewish the Institutional Foundation/Corporate and Shelley Skelton are taking over on Collier/Lee Chapter future through Young Giving Program is another matching January 30, so come and be a part of (239) 370-6220 Judaea ,and educating way to give. For more information, the next generation of leaders. Israel’s leaders of tomor- contact Yael Shmookler, Director of Hadassah is an organization, as Karen Cohn row through Youth Aliyah and Hadas- Development North, Central Florida, you know, that is the “Power of Wom- It is always a good time to remind ev- sah College. Chair Ellen Harris can be and Southeast, at 443.824.9499. en Who Do.” eryone that your donation makes a dif- reached at [email protected]. What you get back is the knowl- Upcoming events: ference, no matter how small or how Major Gifts is another level which edge that you made a difference in • Tuesday, January 30: Hadassah large it is. In case you are not aware, helped build the Sarah Davidson Wets- Israel. What you get back here in the Installation Luncheon at the Hadassah has many ways to donate. man 19-story tower in Jerusalem. United States is being a member of a Vineyards CC, Carol Finn, Chai Society is a perfect way to be- A Perpetual Yahrzeit, which is one terrific organization that advances the carolthompson@mylegaledge. gin the journey of giving. $15 a month time donation of $1,000, makes it pos- health and well-being of individuals, com is all you need to begin. When you are sible to have Kaddish said at the desig- families and people around the world. • Sunday, February 4: New Member a member of Chai Society, Hadassah nated date of a loved one’s passing in Hadassah also advocates for issues im- Brunch, location TBA, Donna can count on you every month. Email the Fannie and Maxwell Abbell Syna- pacting women, our society and health. Goldblatt, [email protected] Luba Rotsztain at luba.laufer.rotsz- gogue located in the Hadassah-Hebrew To everyone who has already sent in • Monday, February 5: Board [email protected] for more information. University Medical Center at Ein Ker- donations, I personally say “Thank Meeting at Temple Shalom The next level of giving is Keeper em, Jerusalem. This is where the Marc You.” • Monday, February 12: Mah Jong of the Gate and that begins with a year- Chagall glass windows are located, and This is my last L’CHAYIM article / Card Party, Sandy Diamond, ly donation of $1,000. the sound of the Kaddish being said for Hadassah and I would like to thank [email protected] This donation will enable the ex- is breath taking. Contact Chair Gale co-President Gayle Dorio and my fab- • Sunday, February 25: Hadassah traordinary work of Hadassah to con- Lazarus at [email protected]. ulous board, without whom we would Fundraiser Brunch, Israel’s 70th tinue and grow in Israel and around the Hadassah has a robust Designated be nothing. They put in a lot of hard Birthday at the Hilton Naples, Lee world. Saving lives through Hadassah Giving and Estates Program. If you work to make the programs fun, inter- Henson, [email protected].
has been a docent there dicate which session you will be at- the critical post-World War II period GENERATIONS OF THE SHOAH for many years. Sandy tending. and the plight of tens of thousands of SOUTHWEST FLORIDA has developed “Through Another program of special note refugees who survived the Holocaust (239) 963-9347 Their Eyes: A Survivor’s will be held at the South Regional Li- “but whom most of the world left to Story,” a unique program brary (8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, fend for themselves.” This event is Special GenShoah program that has been presented to Second Gen- Naples) on Tuesday, January 16 at free but reservations are required at emphasizes that survivors’ stories eration groups throughout the U.S. and 2:00 p.m. In honor of Jewish His- http://collierlibrary.org/programs. must be preserved internationally. The program showcas- tory Month in Florida, the Academy Information about future pro- Ida Margolis es her late father’s story by featuring Award-winning documentary The grams is listed below and in the Gen - Recently, I read that a Holocaust survi- segments of his oral testimony along Long Way Home will be screened, Shoah e-newsletter. For more infor- vor dies every 45 minutes, more than with her live commentary. followed by a Q&A facilitated by mation or to receive the e-newsletter, a thousand Holocaust survivors pass “This interactive program pioneers Steve Brazina. The film is a stag- please email me at genshoahswfl@ away each month, and the average age a way to authentically share both the geringly powerful examination of gmail.com. of Holocaust survivors is 85. In our survivor’s experience and the impor- Southwest Florida community, while tant lessons they teach after the survi- we had only a small number of survi- vors are no longer able to do so. The December is when vors, some of them were willing to talk number of eloquent survivors is few HAZAK 55+ CHAPTER HAZAK began its mem- to students about their experiences. and far between,” said Michael Zank, at Temple Judea bership drive, so if you While we still have a few wonderful the director of the Elie Wiesel Center (239) 433-0201 haven’t paid for or re- survivors in our community, their num- for Jewish Studies at Boston Univer- newed your membership ber is dwindling. sity, who was mentored by Wiesel Joyce Rosinger yet, please do. We look forward to In Naples, we are very fortunate to himself. “It puts the responsibility Join HAZAK on Sunday, January 21 growing again this year. The new/re- have the Holocaust Museum & Educa- on us, the next generation, the chil- at 4:00 p.m. to hear our guest speaker, newal membership forms are available tion Center of Southwest Florida and dren of survivors, and the grandchil- Cynthia Williams. Cynthia will treat us at Temple Judea. If you joined HAZAK our GenShoah SWFL, an affinity group dren of survivors, to become as ar- to a visual presentation entitled “The within the last three months of 2017, of the Museum. This allows GenShoah ticulate as we can be in maintaining Hidden History of Fort Myers.” Dinner your dues for 2018 are included. to present numerous programs each these memories and the mandate that after the program will be at Saigon Par- Temple Judea’s active HAZAK season that are consistent with our mis- comes with it.” is Bistro in Fort Myers. For additional Chapter is a chartered member of the sion of: promotion of Holocaust educa- Lessig is scheduled to present her information, please call Jan Klein at United Synagogue of Conservative Ju- tion and human rights, preservation of program at the Holocaust Museum 239.482.6073. daism. Dues are a modest $5 per year the history and memories of the Holo- twice. The first presentation will be On Thursday, February 15, per person. Membership in the organi- caust, connection of the Second Gen- on Sunday, January 21 at 5:00 p.m.; HAZAK will visit the Holocaust Mu- zation is open to the community. Join eration with one another, and support the second will be on Monday, Janu- seum & Education Center of South- HAZAK and meet new friends. The of the Holocaust Museum & Education ary 22 at 10:00 a.m. Lessig has agreed west Florida in Naples. The Museum HAZAK Chapters are for singles or Center of Southwest Florida. to present the same program twice to will provide a docent. If needed, car couples. It’s an organization formed by The January GenShoah program is accommodate as many Second and pools will be formed at 9:00 a.m. in USCJ to enable members to meet and one of the most important that we have Third Generation as possible. Space Temple Judea’s parking lot. Contact socialize with each other. Our monthly ever presented in that it is aimed specif- is very limited and reservations must Freda Confeld at 612.801.3758 if you programs vary in nature. ically to accomplish our mission. San- be made by sending a check for $18 wish to carpool. The group will have For additional information, please dy Lessig is a Second Generation Ho- per person to the Holocaust Muse- lunch at Brio Tuscan Grill in the Wa- call Bunny Lawrence at 239.245.7708, locaust educator, has served as co-chair um (HMEC) at 4760 Tamiami Trail terside Shops in Naples. RSVP is re- Shirley Schiffman at 239.395.0135, of “The Generations After” of Hous- North, Suite 7, Naples, FL 34103. quired for this program. For additional or George or Joyce Rosinger at ton, serves on the Board of Advisors Please include your phone number information and to RSVP, call Lynda 239.437.1566. of Holocaust Museum Houston, and and email address, and be sure to in- Maslow at 239.703.7273. Read the current and previous editions of L’CHAYIM online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org. L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 30 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties TEMPLE NEWS
stepping up to provide are confident that these lay leader vol- ifornia were experiencing horrific fires. TEMPLE BETH EL continuity for services unteers will provide enjoyable and in- One such area was Santa Rosa, where Fort Myers and study. Prior to begin- teresting D’Var Torah discussions and thirty members of Congregation Shom- (239) 433-0018 ning her maternity leave, the fellowship that develops through rei Torah lost their homes and every- Rabbi Luna and Cantor Torah study. Our sincere thanks to thing they owned, including mezuzot, www.templebethel.com Bessman set up programs Cantor Bessman for his able and will- menorahs and Shabbat candlesticks. Ju- in which congregants ing assistance. To each and every lead- daism offers actions to take, and while Temple Beth El Sisterhood is spon- would volunteer to participate as lay er/participant: a hearty yasher koach! people are in mourning over all theyA hearty welcome back to the snow- soring a Doo-Wop Motown show on leaders to assist the cantor during our In partnership with OneBlood and have lost and feeling isolated, our tradi-birds. You were missed! Temple Beth Sunday, February 11 at 7:00 p.m. at the Friday evening services. Each volun- The Big Red Bus, Temple Beth El’s re- tion, in its wisdom, teaches that this is Shalom has a lot of activities lined up Crowne Plaza in the Bell Tower Shops teer was required to prepare an original cent blood drive resulted in donations precisely the time to be in community.to get you back in the swing of things, with music performed by Uptown Ex- D’Var Torah pertaining to that week’s of eight pints of blood. Each donation We are grateful to those who purchasedstarting with our honoree banquet on press. Tickets are $35 for general seat- Torah portion, if possible. A similar potentially saves three lives, so twen- and donated items of Judaica from our Saturday, January 13. We will honor ing and $40 for priority seating (first program, intended to continue the rab- ty-four patients could benefit from the TBE Gift Gallery during our Hanuk-Stuart Berman and Marcia Strumwa- five rows). To purchase tickets, call bi’s stimulating Saturday morning To- lifesaving efforts of Temple Beth El kah Bazaar on December 3. Threeter for their dedication to the temple. TBE at 239.433.0018 or go to temple- rah study classes, has been instituted. blood donors. The Mitzvah Commit- cartons of Judaica items were shipped Join us for a fun evening of good food, bethel.com. This will be an evening of Several Friday night lay leaders also tee thanks all those who shared their to Congregation Shomrei Torah from music and dancing. We will also get fun and dancing. Get your tickets ear- volunteered to act as facilitators on power to save lives. Temple Beth El. Rabbi Luna offered togroups together to see some of the Jew- ly. No tickets will be sold at the door. Saturday mornings for the duration of Jewish tradition knows quite a bit use money from her discretionary fund ish Film Festival offerings, including For more information, contact Bernice the rabbi’s maternity leave. While we about loss and mourning. While the to pay for shipping to Santa Rosa with I’ve Got To Be Me about Sammy Davis Turner at [email protected]. will miss Rabbi Luna’s presence as she State of Florida was devastated by hur- a note of support and friendship from Jr., and Dreaming of a Jewish Christ- Temple Beth El congregants are bonds with baby Iris Luna-Bord, we ricanes in 2017, areas of Northern Cal- Temple Beth El. mas about Christmas songs written by Jewish composers. If you weren’t here in December, ing services on Friday held every Friday from 5:30 to 6:30 of the group helping to lead morning you missed an incredibly busy and fun- TEMPLE JUDEA evening, January 12. Dr p.m., right before Shabbat services. It’s services, Zohar ben Hamu, Temple Ju-filled month. Temple Beth Shalom had Fort Myers Toll’s topic will be “Hur- a great time for members to enjoy so- dea’s shlicha, will be the guest speaker.a packed Chanukah party with chicken (239) 433-0201 ricanes: A Bit of a Differ- cializing and to greet prospective new Hazak will hold a monthly meeting onsoup and matzo balls for everyone, can- ent Spin.” Dr. Toll holds members and those visiting the syna- Sunday, January 21 at 4:00 p.m. at thedle lighting, activities for the children, www.tjswfl.org a doctoral degree in Bio- gogue. synagogue. logical Oceanography Join Rabbi Sack at his monthly To- For more information about Tem- The date of Temple Judea Sisterhood’s from the Rosenstiel School of Marine rah study session held at the offices of ple Judea or upcoming programs, call Dairy Potluck Brunch was changed and Atmospheric Science of the Univer- Myers and Brettholtz and Company. It or email the synagogue office. from December 3 to January 7. The sity of Miami. Reservations for dinner is an hour of open discussion of Torah Regular scheduled events: Chaverot Membership Brunch from are a must; call the synagogue office. and Judaism where all levels of back- • Friday evening Shabbat services at 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. will be at the Nonmembers are welcome to attend. ground and all questions are encour- 6:30 p.m. home of Lisa Bendetowicz. Along with Congregants continue to volunteer aged. Everyone is welcome and there • Saturday morning Shabbat servic- their dairy or parve potluck dishes, each month at Sally’s Café, a Salvation is no cost to attend. The next Torah es at 9:30 a.m. members will bring personal stories of Army-sponsored program to feed the study is Thursday, January 11. (Please • Lunchtime Torah study with Rabbi the journeys that led them to Fort My- homeless and those in need. To volun- note change of schedule for the Janu- Sack the first Thursday of each ers and Temple Judea. Call the syna- teer, call the synagogue office. Volun- ary Torah study from the usual first month. The next Torah study is on gogue office for more information and teers are needed for the following Sun- Thursday of each month.) January 11 (change of schedule to reserve a space. day evenings: December 31, January Hazak, Temple Judea’s 55+ group, this month only). Dr. Ron Toll will be the guest 14 and 28. Call the synagogue office. will sponsor the Shabbat service on • Morning minyan every Monday at speaker at the Shabbat dinner follow- A wine and cheese reception is December 30. In addition to members 9:00 a.m. Send updates and changes to the Directory below to [email protected].
TEMPLE BETH EL CHABAD OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY REFORM ORTHODOX 16225 Winkler Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 204 E Mckenzie St Unit B, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 Rabbi Nicole Luna Rabbi Simon Jacobson E mail: [email protected] Phone: (941) 833 3381 Temple educator: Dale Cohen, Ma.Ed., R.J.E E mail: [email protected] Preschool director: Jesyca Virnig Web site: www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com President: Ellis Rabinowitz IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES Services: Saturday at 10 a.m. followed by Phone: 433 0018 • Fax: 433 3235 a kiddush Web site: www.templebethel.com Torah study: Wednesday at 8 p.m. Shabbat services: 7:30 p.m. Friday; Torah study 9:00 a.m. Saturday; B’nai Mitzah 10:30 a.m. Saturday CHABAD LUBAVITCH Religious School: 9:30 a.m. noon Sunday COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE Hebrew School: 5:00 6:30 p.m Wednesday OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA REFORM ORTHODOX Judaica Gift Gallery 10868 Metro Parkway, South Fort Myers Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism 5620 Winkler Road (The Southwest Florida Masonic Center) Fort Myers, FL 33919 P.O. Box 07144, Fort Myers, FL 33919 Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz TEMPLE BETH SHALOM Rabbi Bruce Diamond Phone: 433 7708 • Fax: 481 9109 REFORM ([email protected]) E mail: [email protected] 702 S.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33990 Coordinator: Natalie Fulton Web site: www.chabadswf.org Rabbi Devora Buchen Adult Educator: Jessica Evers Services: Friday 5:15 p.m.; Saturday Kabbalah President: Arnie Schwartz Phone: (239) 466 6671 class 9 a.m.; Shacharit 10 a.m.; Kiddush at noon Phone: 772 4555 • Fax: 772 4625 E mail: [email protected] Minyan: Monday & Thursday 7:00 a.m. E mail: [email protected] Web site: www.fortmyerssynagogue.com Web site: www.templebethshalomcc.org Community Sabbath eve dinner each Friday at 6:30 p.m. CHABAD JEWISH CENTER Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday OF CAPE CORAL Religious School: Thursday 4:00 6:30 p.m. Sabbath eve worship every Friday at 7:30 p.m. Light breakfast and Torah study with the rabbi ORTHODOX Torah study with Rabbi Buchen: Shabbat 10:30 a.m. 1716 Cape Coral Pkwy. W., Cape Coral, FL 33914 Organizations: Brotherhood, Sisterhood, every Saturday morning from 9:30 11:30 a.m. Rabbi Yossi Labkowski Family Service (1st Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m.) Phone: 963 4770 TEMPLE JUDEA E mail: [email protected] BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS CONSERVATIVE Web site: www.chabadcape.com 14486 A&W Bulb Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 REFORM Services: Friday Evening 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Marc Sack Meets at Sanibel Congregational Church Saturday morning 9:30 a.m. followed by 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island E mail: [email protected] President: Jennifer Manekin Kiddush luncheon Rabbi Stephen L. Fuchs Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. President: Alan Lessack Director of Congregational Learning: Elizabeth Singer Monday Friday morning 7:00 a.m. Phone: 239 579 0296 (Oct Apr) JLI Courses: Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. 773 251 8862 (May Sept) Preschool Director: Joann Goldman Email: [email protected] [email protected] Weekly Torah Study: Tuesday evening 7:30 p.m. Cantor: Murray Simon Phone: 433 0201 • Fax: 433 3371 Hebrew School: Sunday 10:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m. Web site: www.batyam.org E mail: [email protected] Jgirls: Tuesday 6:00 7:00 p.m. Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday (Nov Apr) Web site: www.tjswfl.org 7:00 p.m. Friday (May Oct) Services: 6:15 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m. COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Adult Education: Saturday Minyan: 9:00 a.m. Monday Shalom Life Center Saturday, 9:00 11:30 a.m. (Nov Apr) Religious School: Sun. 9:30 a.m. noon; Lawrence Dermer, Spiritual Leader 218 3433 Jewish Current Events: Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Wed. 4:30 6 p.m. • AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee): to 12:15 p.m. (Nov Apr) Early childhood education: Jacki Waksman (954) 653 9053 Write: P.O. Box 84, Sanibel, FL 33957 Preschool, M F, ages 18 months 5 years; • AJC (American Jewish Committee): “Mommy & Me,” 12 months 2 years Brian Lipton (941) 365 4955 Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism • Anti Defamation League: (561) 988 2900 Affiliated: United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism • B’Nai B’rith International: (941) 302 4500 TEMPLE SHALOM CHARLOTTE • Chevra Kadisha: HARBOR AND THE GULF ISLANDS CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS/ Gene Sipe 841 4615 REFORM • Generations of the Shoah SWFL: 963 9347 23190 Utica Ave., P.O. Box 494675 ESTERO • Hadassah Collier/Lee Chapter: Lynn Weiner 598 1009 Port Charlotte, FL 33949 4675 ORTHODOX 24850 Old 41 Road, Suite 20 (in the Bernwood • Hadassah Sharon Chapter (Charlotte County): Rabbi Solomon Agin Odette Port (941) 505 1409 President: Gary Wein Centre) Bonita Springs, FL 34135 7024 • Hazak 55+ Chapter: Phone: (941) 625 2116 Joyce Rosinger 437 1566 E mail: [email protected] Rabbi Mendy Greenberg Phone: 949 6900 • Humanistic Jewish Havurah: Web site: templeshalomfl.com Paula Creed 495 8484 Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday Web site: www.JewishBonita.com • Israel Bonds: Regional Headquarters: (800) 622 8017 Religious school: Sunday 10 a.m. Services: Saturday at 10 a.m., followed by • Jewish Community Services: 481 4449 Beginning Hebrew: Tuesday 4:15 5:15 p.m. a kiddush • Jewish National Fund: (727) 536 5263 Advanced Hebrew: Thursday 4:15 5:15 p.m. Memorial Tree Planting in Israel 1 800 542 8733 Organizations: Sisterhood • Jewish War Veterans: Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism Post 400: Commander Harvey Charter 246 3151 • Mikvah Bashka of Southwest Florida: Nechamie Minkowicz 822 2784 • ORT Gulf Beaches Chapter Marina Berkovich 566 1771 L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 TEMPLE NEWS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 31
and a beautiful Chanukah bonding and, of course, food. accomplished by the ladies who cleaned TEMPLE BETH SHALOM service for children of Nonmembers and guests are wel- all the blue chairs, and the ladies who Cape Coral all ages. Loads of food comed with open arms. For more infor- moved the whole library – books and (239) 772-4555 were collected to donate mation or tickets to any event, call the shelves – into the small classroom. to charity. Sisterhood’s temple office at 239.772.4555. www.templebethshalomcc.org gift exchange was full of * * * surprises, fun and good A Little Goes a Long Way A hearty welcome back to the snow- food. Workday at TBS brought volun- An outstanding group of TBS congre- birds. You were missed! Temple Beth teers together to tackle the many chores gants went to work on Sunday, Decem- Shalom has a lot of activities lined up necessary to maintain the synagogue ber 10, a cold, cold, Florida day. These to get you back in the swing of things, and it grounds. On top of all of that, were the Building and Grounds helpers starting with our honoree banquet on Temple Beth Shalom welcomed back who worked all morning to put some Saturday, January 13. We will honor the Jewish Federation’s Lunch Bunch things right at the temple. They painted Stuart Berman and Marcia Strumwa- for a delightful gathering of seniors the Holocaust memorial, patched the ter for their dedication to the temple. looking for good conversation, new driveway and asphalted the scullery Join us for a fun evening of good food, friends and an afternoon out. drain. They trimmed bushes, repaired music and dancing. We will also get While we always talk about the siddur dedication labels, and cleaned groups together to see some of the Jew- fun activities going on, Temple Beth the sound system amplifier. Finally, ish Film Festival offerings, including Shalom also has a serious spiritual the two biggest jobs may have been I’ve Got To Be Me about Sammy Davis and intellectual life going on all of the Jr., and Dreaming of a Jewish Christ- time. Join us for services at 7:30 p.m. mas about Christmas songs written by every Friday, and Torah study at 10:30 Jewish composers. a.m. on Saturday mornings. Brown bag If you weren’t here in December, lunches, where current events are dis- of the group helping to lead morningyou missed an incredibly busy and fun- cussed and diverse opinions are wel- services, Zohar ben Hamu, Temple Ju-filled month. Temple Beth Shalom had comed, are held every other Wednes- dea’s shlicha, will be the guest speaker.a packed Chanukah party with chicken day. Rosh Hodesh topics bring together Hazak will hold a monthly meeting onsoup and matzo balls for everyone, can- women of varied backgrounds for eve- Sunday, January 21 at 4:00 p.m. at thedle lighting, activities for the children, nings of lively discussion, learning, synagogue. For more information about Tem- ple Judea or upcoming programs, call The 2018 Shared co-sponsored annually by Temple Clearly marked containers will be set or email the synagogue office. BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS Scholar Lecture will take Bat Yam, the Sanibel Congregational up for Friday evening Shabbat and Regular scheduled events: Sanibel place at 3:00 p.m. on United Church of Christ, St. Michael Saturday morning Adult Education • Friday evening Shabbat services at (773) 251-8862 Sunday, January 14 at the and All Angels Episcopal Church, First attendees. A group of volunteers will 6:30 p.m. Sanibel Congregational Church of Christ Scientist and Captiva be needed to go to the Harry Chapin • Saturday morning Shabbat servic- www.batyam.org United Church of Christ. Chapel by the Sea. Temple Bat Yam is Food Bank in Fort Myers on the third es at 9:30 a.m. The Shared Scholar grateful that its sponsorship is under- Wednesday of each month to sort and • Lunchtime Torah study with RabbiAs you read this article and peruse the Committee of Sanibel and Captiva se- written by the Leo Rosner Foundation pack food for those in need. Carpool- Sack the first Thursday of L’CHAYIMeach newspaper, it is now 2018. lected the Rev. Dr. J. Clinton McCann in honor of June Rosner. ing will be arranged. Contact Garry at month. The next Torah study is on According to the Kabbalistic system for 2018. Dr. McCann is Evangelical “Jews in Entertainment” is the [email protected] for more infor- January 11 (change of scheduleof gematria, the letters of the Hebrew Professor of Biblical Interpretation at focus of the congregant portion of mation. this month only). word “chai” add up to 18. For this rea- Eden Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. Saturday morning Adult Education Mark your calendar for the San- • Morning minyan every Monday atson, 18 is a spiritual number in Juda- He earned a PhD from Duke Univer- classes in January. Edina Lessack will ibel-Captiva Heart Walk on Sunday, 9:00 a.m. ism. Gematria, from the Greek word sity. He is especially interested in the provide an overview on January 6. She January 28 at 2:00 p.m. This year for geometry, is a Kabbalistic method intersection of religion and culture, convinced SWFL Symphony Orches- the festivities will be at the Commu- of interpreting the Hebrew Scriptures and is committed to the importance of tra Maestro Nir Kabaretti to speak on nity House on Periwinkle Way. Rabbi by computing the numerical value of multicultural education. At this free January 13. He is Israeli born and has Fuchs will be a featured speaker prior words. May the “18” in 2018 portend lecture, he will speak about the Psalms been conducting in SWFL since 2014. to the walk. Team Bat Yam should be life, mazel and peace for the Jewish as a bridge to interfaith cooperation. A On January 20, Barry Fulmer will dis- well represented. community around the world. reception will follow the lecture. On cuss Aaron Copland, a major American All Temple Bat Yam services and On Friday, January 5, Temple Bat Tuesday, January 16 at 10:00 a.m., Dr. composer. Bat Yam Cantor Murray Si- classes take place on the campus of the Yam will celebrate and have a formal McCann, with assistance from com- mon will talk about other famous can- Sanibel Congregational United Church installation of its new rabbi and cantor. poser and musician Richard Bruxvoort tors on January 27. of Christ located at 2050 Periwinkle Other area clergy will join with Rab- Colligan, will offer a workshop on The first weekend of each month, Way, Sanibel, where members of the bi Stephen Fuchs and Cantor Murray music in the life of religious congre- the Social Action Committee, chaired community, guests and visitors are Simon to mark this special occasion. gations. The lecture and workshop are by Garry Weiss, will be collecting pa- always welcome to join with congre- Rabbi Paul Citrin from New Mexico free and open to the public. per products to be donated to Sanibel gants. will officiate. The Shared Scholar Lecture is F.I.S.H., the food pantry on Sanibel.
dens for underwriting est. Audience members are encouraged fee hour follows worship. COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE the cost of the dinner that to pack a dinner. Admission and soft Every Saturday morning at 9:30 Fort Myers night! drinks are always free. a.m., C.F.S. offers a light breakfast (239) 466-6671 Heartfelt thanks to The Community Free Synagogue’s followed by a lively discussion of the C.F.S. Auxiliary Rab- adult education program continues week’s Torah portion until 11:30 a.m., www.fortmyerssynagogue.com bis Terri Goldberg and with a 3-week series on American anti- when the Mourner’s Qaddish is recited. Thomas Meese for their Semitism between the wars, taught by Now in its 13th year, The Commu- Mazel Tov to Dr. Joe Bord and Rab- generous gift of the Davkawriter 7 He- professor and C.F.S.er Jessica Evers. nity Free Synagogue is a not-for-profit bi Nicole Luna on the birth of their brew word-processing software. C.F.S. Evers, a scholar of modern Jewish his- open community religious resource. daughter, Iris Luna-Bord, who already creates its own Sabbath and Festival tory who serves as associate director of All of its events and programs, includ- adds luster to our world! Siddur, High Holiday Mahzor, Pass- FGCU’s Center for Judaic, Holocaust ing youth and adult Jewish education, Congratulations to Brian Berger, over Haggadah, Shiva booklets, and a and Genocide Studies, will focus on are open to all and always free. son of C.F.S.ers Miriam and Marvin beautiful 18”x24” Ketuba, and makes the institutionalized and “normalized” The purpose of The Community Berger, who was awarded a Meritori- them available for free downloading anti-Jewish sentiment in the United Free Synagogue is “Study, Worship ous Citizen Citation from the Town of on its website at www.fortmyerssyna- States, much of which eventually pro- and Benevolent Acts,” generally fol- Hempstead, New York, for his commit- gogue.com. The rabbi’s gift will ex- moted by the 3rd Reich, permeated lowing Reform traditions. The syna- ted service to Temple Hillel in North pedite new and expanded editions of the very highest levels of American gogue meets at the Southwest Florida Woodmere. C.F.S.’s public domain Jewish prayer government, industry and society. The Masonic Center, 10868 Metro Park- Mazel Tov to Joanne Cristea, who books. classes are from 10:30 to noon on Sun- way in South Fort Myers. For more celebrated her new home with a mezzu- The first C.F.S. 2018 Israel Pil- days, January 28, February 4 and 11 in information, visit www.fortmyerssyna- zah-setting ceremony and luncheon at grimage informational meeting is on the synagogue’s Community Hall, and gogue.com . the end of November! Sunday, January 7 from 10:30 a.m. are free and open to all. C.F.S.’ founder and leader Rabbi Deepest sympathies to the family to noon in the Community Hall. This Each Friday evening at 6:30 p.m., Bruce Diamond, D.D., this year cel- of Aleksander Israelevich Tszeybak, meeting is for both those who have al- The Community Free Synagogue ebrating the 40th year since ordination who passed at the age of 99 in Novem- ready signed up and those who would serves a traditional Sabbath dinner. It at The Hebrew Union College-Jewish ber. Mr. Tszeybak was a much-decorat- like to find out more about the June is free and reservations are never re- Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, ed combat officer at the siege of Stalin- 4-15 trip. Learn more about the C.F.S. quired. At 7:30 p.m., the Sabbath is marks his 20th year in Fort Myers. grad in World War II. Israel Pilgrimage by visiting the syna- welcomed with prayer and song. A cof- Once again C.F.S. is grateful to gogue’s website. Natalie Fulton and her volunteers for The next Community Free “Brown There’s a new minyan at Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida, organizing the very popular Commu- Bag Movie Night” is at 6:30 p.m. on 5620 Winkler Road, Fort Myers. Please join us on Sundays at 8:00 a.m., nity Free Latke Dinner on Friday, De- Thursday, January 11 in the syna- and Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 a.m. cember 15; to our C.F.S. singers Traci gogue’s Community Hall, and fea- Pavel, Susan Block and David Pincus tures the acclaimed Israeli comedy The for leading the Hanukah sing-along; Women’s Balcony (see the item else- and to FGCU pianist Angelita Berdia- where in this issue for details). C.F.S.’ lis for providing the musical accompa- “Brown Bag Movie Nights” have been niment. The synagogue is once again a year-round monthly community fa- indebted to Donelle Sullivan and his vorite for several years, featuring both people at Fort Myers Memorial Gar- new and classic films of Jewish inter- L'CHAYIM JANUARY 2018 32 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties
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