Celebrating Jewish Life in Collier County
Federation Star Published by the Jewish Federation of Collier County serving Naples, Marco Island and the surrounding communities
www.JewishNaples.org
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
Time is running out
3 Community Relations Comm. 5 Community Focus 6 Women’s Cultural Alliance 10 Jewish Interest 13 Focus on Youth 14 Tributes 19 Israel & the Jewish World 22 Commentary 24 Synagogues 25 Organizations 28 Business Directory 30 Community Calendar 31 Community Directory
15 NCJW Annual Fashion Show
16 Temple Shalom’s 50th Anniversary Gala
info@jewishnaples.org
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May 2012 - Iyar/Sivan 5772 Y Vol. 21 #9
800 attend Father Patrick Desbois presentation By Melissa Keel, Community Program Coordinator
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n Thursday, March 22, Fr. Patrick Desbois, author of The Holocaust by Bullets - A Priest’s Journey to Uncover the Truth Behind the Murder of 1.5 Million Jews, visited our community. Resonating with those who attended were Fr. Desbois’ words of urgency, “Unfortunately, time is running out to continue to identify, protect and memorialize the remaining mass gravesites, because the witnesses who are very old, will soon be gone.” Yahad-In Unum, Desbois’ institute, estimates it will take 3-5 years to locate the remaining unidentified gravesites in Russia and Eastern Europe. For information on how you can support the research of Fr. Desbois, visit www.yahadinunum.org. The event, which was attended by a standing-room-only crowd of approximately 800 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, was sponsored by the Catholic/Jewish Dialogue of Collier County, the Community Relations Committee of the Jewish Federation of Collier County, the Center for Judaic, Holocaust and Human Rights Studies at Florida Gulf
Coast University, and the Holocaust Museum & Education Center of Southwest Florida. The following day, the Center for Judaic, Holocaust and Human Rights Studies at Florida Gulf Coast University hosted Fr. Desbois for the annual clergy seminar. Fr. Desbois noted that in order to continue successful Christian/Jewish relations, it is important for the leadership at the top to set the stage; to develop friendships between rabbis and bishops and create an atmosphere of cooperation on the local level. Fr. Desbois communicated that “it is very important to involve youth, at an early age, in interfaith activities and educational subjects such as comparative religion, social justice and human rights issues.” The Catholic/Jewish Dialogue of Collier County celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. The purpose of the dialogue is to engage Catholics and Jews in a reassessment of their long history and to advance the cause of
Father Patrick Desbois (photo courtesy of Bob Reddy)
mutual understanding and appreciation for our differences, as well as our commonalities. Fr. Desbois’ appearance personifies this purpose as well as the purpose of educating our community about the atrocities that occurred under the Nazis. Teaching respect for our fellow man through the lessons of the Holocaust is also the guiding message of the Holocaust Museum & Education Center of Southwest Florida and the Center for Judaic, Holocaust and Human Rights Studies at Florida Gulf Coast University.
See page 29 for more photos from this event.
$1,000,000
18 Federation holds “Friend Raiser” on Marco Island
Catholic/Jewish Dialogue of Collier County Steering Committee: (seated) Melissa Keel, Isabel B. Price, Fr. Patrick Desbois, co-Chair Ann Jacobson, Past co-Chair Jack Conroy, Dee Donnelly, (standing) Fr. Bob Kantor, Myra Shapiro, co-Chair Martin Gauthier, Charlotte Milavsky, Rabbi Sylvin Wolf, Ida Margolis, Dr. George Blewitt, Peter McCabe
PFLAG
Interfaith Convocation
24 Beth Tikvah’s new rabbi
Jewish Federation of Collier County Inc. 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Ste. 2201 Naples, FL 34109
Prsrt Std US Postage Paid Permit #419 Ft Myers FL
Sunday, May 6, 3:00 pm Temple Shalom 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) invite people of all faiths to worship together with other families in our community.
PLEASE PRAY WITH US! www.PFLAGinterfaith.com Reception to follow Service
www.PFLAGnaples.org (239) 513-4568
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Federation Star May 2012
JEWISH FEDERATION
Yochi Melnick Sales Associate
Languages: Hebrew/ English
Direct: (239) 269-6527 Office: (239) 262-7131 Email: yochi.melnick@comcast.net Coldwell Banker Previews International 550 Fifth Avenue S Naples, FL 34102
Opening doors For you
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jewish Happenings May 6: May 10: May 12-18: May 16: May 20: May 27: May 30:
PFLAG Interfaith Convocation, page 9 Lag B’Omer picnic, Beth Tikvah, page 24 ArtsNaples World Festival, page 9 Zionist Organization of America program, page 8 GenShoah meeting, page 7 Shavuot blintz buffet and ice cream party, Chabad, page 24 Lunch & Learn, Chabad, page 24
For a continuously updated community calendar, visit www.jewishnaples.org. INDEX Columns David Willens.............................3 Jewish Federation......................1-4 Community Relations Comm.......3 Women’s Cultural Alliance.........6 Features Book Review............................10 Calendar, Candle Lighting........30 Commentary........................22-23 Community Focus.........5-9,14-18 Focus on Youth.........................13 Tributes.....................................14 Community Directory................31
Organizations Hadassah..................................27 Holocaust Museum.....................9 Humanistic Jewish Havurah......26 Jewish War Veterans.................27 Jewish Women International....25 Naples Jewish Social Club........27 NCJW.......................................25 ORT America..............................26 Synagogue News Beth Tikvah...............................24 Chabad....................................24 Business Directory..................28-29
This month’s advertisers This publication is brought to you each month thanks to the support of our advertisers. Please be sure to use their products and services, and mention that you found them in the Federation Star. Abbie Joan...............................3 Rickie Klein, Realtor®............29 Beth Adelman, Realtor®.........28 Melanie Bacal Korn, M.D......28 Kevin Aizenshtat, Realtor®....28 Tyler B. Korn, Attorney..........28 Applebee’s........................insert A. Stephen Kotler, Attorney....28 ArtsNaples World Festival........2 LTCi Marketplace..................28 Charles Banov........................14 Dr. Morris Lipnik...................20 Bascom Palmer Eye Institute..28 Yochi Melnick, Realtor®..........2 Bland, Erdsneker, Levin..........29 N. Benjamin Interiors............18 Brookdale Senior Living........18 Naples Diamond Service........28 Camp Shalom.........................13 Naples Envelope & Printing...28 Classic Transportation............29 Naples Luxury Travel Adv.....29 Clean Naples LLC....................4 Naples Players.......................15 Coni Mar Designs..................28 Naples Rug Gallery................11 Dr. William Ertag, FAAN.......28 Needles & Thread..................29 FGCU......................................8 Palm Royale Cemetery........6,28 Fuller Funeral Home.........18,28 PFLAG...................................1 Ellen A. Goldman, Esq..........28 Piano Lessons with Jo Ann.....28 Ruth Gordon, Psychotherapist...28 Preferred Travel................16,17 Dr. David Greene....................15 Salon Sarracino......................20 Gulf Coast Foot & Ankle.........4 Sheldon Starman, CPA...........28 Hodges Funeral Home............14 Elli Taylor, Broker Assoc.......29 Israel Bonds............................19 Dr. Robert Teitelbaum............28 JFCS......................................10 TheatreZone............................3 Jewish Museum of Florida.......9 Debbie Zvibleman, Realtor®...10
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complete Festival Packages Available - All TeN programs for only $399 Charles & Virginia Jacobsen Charitable Trust
Judy Sproul Cooperative effort funded in part by Collier County Tourist Development Council
Nancy Peery Marriott Foundation
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Fed Cup IV ArtsNaples_JewishFed_March.indd 1
4/9/12 11:04 AM
April 29, 2012 at TwinEagles
A golf event for all skills & ages to benefit young Jewish children and 20 teens to experience Jewish Summer Camp and travel to Israel.
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Z $136 per participant – includes boxed breakfast, golf, cart and buffet lunch Z 8:00am Registration and Warm Up Z 9:00am Shotgun Start Z Prizes for long drive and closest to the hole Z Boxed breakfast along with coffee and juice bar upon arrival Z Elegant country club buffet lunch after golf Z Awards and Auction
For more information about the event and hole sponsorships contact Kevin Aizenshtat at kevin@movetonaplesfl.com.
3 Federation Star May 2012 JEWISH FEDERATION
May 2012 Federation Star
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Our Federation staff David Willens JFCC Executive Director
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ast month, Rosalee Bogo thanked many people who worked with her during her three terms as president of this organization – our Board of Trustees, volunteers and the Federation staff. I extend similar thanks to these valued groups of people who make the Federation strong and our community a wonderful place in which to live. This month I want to highlight our Federation staff – some of whom you may not know. Melissa Keel, our Community Program Coordinator, has been with our Federation for six years. Melissa works closely with our Community Relations Committee, Israel Affairs Committee and the Catholic/Jewish Dialogue Steering Committee. She also works in coordination with all of our other committees who conduct events. Melissa is a native Floridian, from Hollywood, and has deep roots in the Federation system from her parents and her early involvement with the Jewish Federation of South Broward County. She has a Master of Science in Social Services from Boston University. She and her husband, Harry, live in Bonita Springs.
Iris Doenias (pronounced Do– en–yas) is an Israeli, who came to this community to marry the love of her life, Art Trinka. Iris worked in the diamond industry in Israel. She first started as an office volunteer – then went part-time during the 2010 season – and last year joined our staff on a fulltime basis. Iris is our Office Assistant, which means that she does practically everything. She manages our database and annual telephone directory, processes all gift acknowledgements, works on campaign events, takes reservations for our events, processes all Tribute donations and Tribute Cards…and much more. Iris has a Master’s degree in Organizational Behavior from the School of Business at Tel Aviv University. Deborah Vacca, the newest member of our staff, is our Bookkeeper. Deborah is from the Boston area and moved to Naples with her
Community Relations Committee Chair
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atholic/Jewish Dialogue to offer mini-course The Catholic/Jewish Dialogue is pleased to announce that Jack Conroy PhD, former co-chair of the Dialogue, has offered to present a mini-course on the Dead Sea Scrolls at four Brown Bag Luncheon sessions in the near future. The sessions would be held in the Jewish Federation’s Community Room. Dr. Conroy is Assistant Professor at Barry University and Rice School for Pastoral Ministries. If you are interested in attending this series, please call Melissa Keel at 239.263.4205. Upstander Award for 2012 The Community Relations Committee 2012 Upstander Award will be presented to Ruth Dorfman, founder of PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) and instrumental in holding an Interfaith Service together with religious institutions annually highlighting PFLAG ef-
MAY 3 – 13, 2012
LECTIONS E S 8 N O S SEA URSDAY, IGHT H T N O D E GN UNVEIL – OPENIN ASON 2 1 0 2 , 3 MAY F THE SE O E C N A M . PERFOR OY FRIEND B E H T : E L FINA
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David Willens, Deborah Vacca, Melissa Keel, Iris Doenias
Community Relations Committee update Ann Jacobson
significant other, Ken Small (MOT from Brookline). Deborah is no stranger to the non-profit world and worked for a time for the Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly in Brighton, Massachusetts. Deborah graduated from UMass Amherst. And lastly, I have been the Executive Director of our Federation for just over twelve years. I am a native Floridian, born on Miami Beach, grew up in Miami Shores, and a graduate of the University of Florida. This coming August will be my 26th year in the Federation system. Together, our small but able Federation staff thanks our Officers and Board of Trustees, our volunteers, and especially our donors for the opportunity to work for the community and to accomplish all that we do. We have had an incredible season of events and look forward to planning for next season over the summer months.
forts. The Upstander Award is given in recognition to a person for creating awareness and speaking out publicly on an issue important to the Jewish and general communities. The award will be presented at the annual meeting of the Jewish Federation of Collier County in May. This year the Community Relations Committee is a sponsor of PFLAG’s convocation to be held at Temple Shalom on Sunday, May 6 at 3:00 p.m. Educator Award The Community Relations Committee 2012 Educator Award – Stand Up for Justice – will be presented to Jonah Nicosia and Jennifer Corea, Manatee Middle School Counselors. Their antibullying campaign involved students and included a guidance lesson in all classrooms. Some of the other activities included an anti-bullying student committee of 21 seventh and eighthgraders who planned events and skits to be presented in classrooms. A Random Act of Kindness Day was initiated and students and staff were provided with a Guide to Bullying Prevention and a video on bullying that initiated classroom discussions. The award will be presented at the annual meeting of the Jewish Federation in May.
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Federation Star May 2012
JEWISH FEDERATION
Summer for our youth I have been involved in this process for about 15 years and have to tell you how fulfilling it is to know we are providing an opportunity that would not otherwise be in these children’s reach. Hearing their stories, excitement and wishes to return the following year is thrilling, like the following story: This past summer was my last summer as a camper. Looking back at the years, I realized I am the person today because of camp, because of the friends I made, and the family that was formed with my fellow campers. I hope I can truly express what camp has done for me. Camp Coleman taught me to be open-minded, taught me about my heritage, and connected me with my roots, my inner Jew. I learned much about Israel. I learned it is okay to be open with your feelings and it is masculine to cry with all your friends.
Phyllis Seaman Federation VP & Campaign Chair
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t’s truly hard to believe how fast our season has flown by. Very shortly, summer will be here and many of our Collier County youngsters will be heading off to camp. Some will go with the help of our Federation. I’m proud to tell you about all the children who have had this lifechanging and lifelong experience. Our Federation provides, through your support of our campaign, partial scholarships to send children of our community to Jewish camps and to participate in an Israel experience, if they choose.
Mah Jongg at the Jewish
Congregation Marco Island for advanced beginners, intermediates and advanced players on Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Reservations are a MUST. Call Shirley Posner at (239) 389-7872.
I saw stars at night I have never seen at home, and it became part of a tradition. A tradition of cabins, sleeping bags and Frisbee games. A tradition of inside jokes and outside jokes, of long nights with friends and even longer hugs with family. A tradition where I was made, where I changed, where I have come to embrace life. Where I only have good days and great days. Where not only do I see the vibrancy of life, but what I can do with it. These words hardly break the ice. I cannot express with words how deeply camp has affected me.
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ver the years we have sent 8-10 children per year on one-month programs. Many have gone repeated years – up to three years – with our assistance, and so have their siblings. Scholarships are financially need based. Federation has also made grants to the day camp programs of
Temple Shalom and Chabad’s Camp Gan Israel. Israel is another story. We have had up to six teens go in one year, with none during the four-year Intifada. We have also helped a couple of teens make their and their family’s dreams come true getting to the Maccabee Games in Israel a few years ago. Two girls got a term in Israel in high school programs; and one is planning to make aliyah because of her experience. Another of the many things we support in our multigenerational community. Thanks to all of our donors and your commitment to Federation we continue to make life-changing experiences. Over the years, Temple Shalom’s Sisterhood and Men’s Club have also been very supportive of the scholarship initiative and we thank them for their financial commitment. I wish all of you a fabulous summer. I’m hoping to be on a National JFNA Campaign Chairs Mission to the Ukraine and Israel in July. I will have so much to share with you upon my return. See you in September. Stay tuned!
Sign up for The PJ Library and you’ll receive a FREE, high-quality children’s book or CD each month. The PJ Library will enrich your family’s life with Jewish stories and songs – and it’s absolutely FREE for families with children from six months up to eight years of age in Collier County.
The PJ Library is brought to the Collier County community by Jewish Family and Community Services of Southwest Florida, Inc. For more information, call 239.325.4444.
Photo courtesy of The PJ Library
Our newest Lion of Judah The Jewish Federation of Collier County is pleased and honored to announce our newest Lion of Judah, Judi Jaffe.
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Judi Jaffe understands the importance of the work of our Federation. She learned it from her father, Louis Feil, who would be so proud to know that she is carrying on the tradition of caring for our fellow Jews. Judi received her Lion of Judah pin from Federation President Rosalee Bogo and Campaign Chair Phyllis Seaman at a recent luncheon to thank her for her generous support of our annual campaign. All Lion of Judah women are special – and their pin is a symbol to everyone of their commitment to Federation and to the Jewish people. How fortunate our community is to have Judi and her husband, Harvey, as donors to our campaign. The Lion of Judah program celebrates its 40th Anniversary this year. This most successful philanthropic program of the Jewish Federations was started in Miami, Florida, and now embraces over 17,000 women from all over the world. Lion of Judah women make an annual gift of $5,000 or more to the Federation campaign. Our Federation has over 30 Lion of Judah women contributing to our campaign.
May 2012 COMMUNITY FOCUS 5 Federation Star Jewish Federation of Collier County 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 2201 Naples, Florida 34109-0613 Phone: (239) 263-4205 Fax: (239) 263-3813 www.jewishnaples.org Email: info@jewishnaples.org
Board of Trustees Alvin Becker Stephen Coleman Ted Epstein Eric Feinstein Beth Grossman Neil Heuer Linda Hyde Nancy Kahn Wallie Lenchner Susan Ritter Dr. Ronald Roth Sandra Roth Michael Sobol Berton Thompson Dr. Joel Waltzer Beth Wolff
Past Presidents Gerald Flagel, Dr. William Ettinger, Ann Jacobson, Sheldon Starman
Board Members Emeritus Ann Jacobson Hans Levy Shirley Levy
Synagogue Representatives Cantor Donna Azu Stephen Goldenberg Stuart Kaye Rabbi Edward Maline Rabbi Adam Miller Rabbi James Perman Dr. Donald Pomerantz Dr. Arthur Seigel Donald Shapiro Rabbi Sylvin Wolf Rabbi Fishel Zaklos
Executive Director David Willens
Staff Melissa Keel, Community Prog. Coord. Iris Doenias, Office Assistant Deborah Vacca, Bookkeeper
Federation is the central Jewish community-building organization for Collier County, providing a social service network that helps Jewish people in Collier County, in Israel and around the world. As the central fundraising organization for Jewish communal life in our area, strength is drawn from organized committees of dedicated volunteers. Programs include: • Annual Campaign & Endowment fund • Community Relations Committee • Educational & cultural programs • Long Range Planning for expected community growth • Publication of the Federation Star, our monthly newspaper; Connections, our annual resource guide; and Community Directory • Women’s Cultural Alliance • Women’s Division • YAD – Young Adult Division • Youth Activities Committee – sponsoring youth education and scholarships for Jewish Summer Camp and the Israel Experience
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Jewish Community Needs Assessment: Preliminary Report Dr. Jaclynn Faffer JFCS Executive Director
Officers President: Rosalee Bogo Vice President: Dr. Karen Ezrine Vice President: Dr. Morton Friedman Vice President: Phyllis Seaman Recording Secretary: Kevin Aizenshtat Treasurer: Kenneth Shevin Assistant Treasurer: Jerry Bogo Immed. Past President: Bobbie Katz
May 2012 Federation Star
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he response to the Jewish Family and Community Services of Southwest Florida 2011 Community Needs Survey was incredible! JFCS sent out 3,000 surveys and received just under 600 responses – a 20% response rate! The usual response rate for surveys of this kind is under 5%. Clearly, the Jewish community of Collier County wants us to know who they are, what they think, and the needs that they have. JFCS is putting together a formal presentation of our findings, but we want to share some preliminary data with you.
There were five top categories of response: ¡¡ AGING 44% of the survey respondents reported that they, or their families, were struggling with issues related to aging. Of this number, 60% said these issues were very important. ¡¡ HEALTH CARE AND/OR MEDICAL INSURANCE (INCLUDING MEDICARE AND MEDICAID) 31% of those responding to the survey said they, or family members, were dealing with issues related to the above. 72% reported that the issues were very important. Demographically, 73% were over 65 and 27% were between the ages of 33 and 64. ¡¡ MENTAL HEALTH 28% of the survey respondents reported that they or members of
Therapy/Support Group Jewish Family and Community Services of Southwest Florida (JFCS) provides a therapy/support group. The group provides an opportunity to work on personal issues and concerns with the input and support of others. It is facilitated by professional staff, and is confidential and ongoing. If you would like to discuss how a therapy group differs from individual therapy, please call Margaret Passeri at 239.325.4444. The charge for this service is $5 per session. This is a committed group that meets weekly on Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. at the JFCS offices, 5025 Castello Drive, Suite 101, Naples.
Bereavement Support Group Have you recently lost a loved one? Jewish Family and Community Services of Southwest Florida is here to provide you with guidance and support during this difficult time. Please join us in our new bereavement support group, beginning Thursday, May 10. The group will meet weekly from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. for 8 weeks. If you are interested, please call Margaret Passeri, LCSW at 239.325.4444 to schedule an appointment and reserve a spot in the group. We look forward to assisting you. JFCS is located at 5025 Castello Drive, Suite #101, Naples.
their families were struggling with issues related to mental health. Of that number, 59% felt that the issues were very important. The highest percentage, 58%, of those reporting mental health concerns, were over 65. 42% were between the ages of 33-64. ¡¡ FINANCES 25% of those responding to the survey said they, or family members, were struggling financially. 69% reported that issues related to finances were very important. Demographically, 41% were between the ages of 33-64 and 59% were over 65. ¡¡ DISABILITY 20% of the survey respondents reported that they, or family members, were struggling with issues related to disability. Of that number, 57% reported that their concerns were very important. 78% percent of those who reported issues related to disability were over 65. There is so much more in the rich data that JFCS received. We will be spending the next several months putting together a full report, complete with statistics, graphs and reported anecdotes. Thank you for telling us who you are and what you need. And thank you for once again confirming that this community needs the services of Jewish Family and Community Services of Southwest Florida.
The work of the Jewish Federation represents both our community and our community’s most generous tradition – to give to others even in the most difficult times.
Jewish Caregivers Support Group Providing care for a chronically-ill relative can overwhelm even the best intentioned person. Often, caregivers themselves become ill because taking care of their loved ones has affected their own health. They think they’re handling the chores okay, but the stress keeps mounting as they must stand by and watch their loved one deteriorate and slip toward the inevitable. Statistics indicate that over ninety percent of caregivers eventually leave their sick relative. We’ve all heard stories about the frail and vulnerable parent shipped off to this child or that, only to be abandoned and sent to a nursing home when that caregiver can no longer go on. The needs are relentless. This is a job with no defined goals, one that can cause exhaustion, frustration, guilt and depression. The chores can be demeaning and unpleasant. But leave your spouse? Your parent, who tended you through childhood and put up with the same kinds of unpleasantness? How could you? And yet
it happens, more often than not, because the self-preservation urge is even stronger than the guilt. What to do? Come to the Jewish Caregivers Support Group that meets in the Temple Shalom chapel at 10:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month. Membership in the group, led by a retired licensed psychotherapist, is open – at no charge – to anyone in the Jewish community, irrespective of the kind of maladies being cared for. What happens here is totally confidential, so you can bare your soul, vent your frustrations, ask for advice – what has worked for others in this situation that you might apply to your own. Several started attending as caregivers and have now transitioned to needing grief support – which the group also embraces. Florette Kahn, LCSW, leads the group. An experienced psychotherapist, she is also caregiver to her husband, who suffers from a debilitating illness. Both as
a professional and as an active caregiver herself, she KNOWS. Assisting her is Phyllis Lazear. If this group sounds like just what you need, all you have to do is show up. For more information, call Phyllis at 239.352.2907 or Florette at 239.354.4209.
Next meetings: May 14 & 28
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Federation Star May 2012 WOMEN’S CULTURAL ALLIANCE
COMMUNITY FOCUS www.WomensCulturalAlliance.com / 239-948-0003
WCA “branches” out By Lea Bendes, Membership Chair
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ontinuing the philosophy that the fun never stops at WCA, nine summer branches of the Women’s Cultural Alliance have been formed. As WCA President Jane Hersch explained, “The underlying concept is that now you will be able to see your WCA/Naples friends back home during the summer and continue the relationships that were made in Naples during the winter.” Several events have already been put in place for this inaugural season: Eight women from the Cape Cod Branch met in January and had such a good time that they planned a Pot Luck Supper (with spouses) that was held March 4. Dale Riemer said that the women plan to get together June 19 to visit Sandwich Glassworks and Heritage Plantation, and have lunch at
Daniel Webster’s Inn. The Cape Cod Branch includes WCA members from Provincetown to Falmouth on Cape Cod as well as Martha’s Vineyard. Chet Rivel reported that fifteen women came to the opening gathering of the Connecticut Branch and had a great time! She will host a gathering in Connecticut for WCA members this summer so that they can continue their good times together. The Illinois Branch met for lunch January 6. Roberta Ury reported that the six women planned a special event for September 6 – a tour of the Holocaust Museum in Skokie, followed by dinner (with spouses and significant others) at Maggiano’s in Old Orchard. All WCA members who live in Illinois are encouraged to attend. Nineteen women participated in
Open 7 days a week Sunday business hours
Women’s Cultural Alliance Membership Form Please check one: r New r Renewal
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the first meeting of the Metro West Boston Branch. Rolly Jacob reported, “It was very apparent that women want to bring the level of involvement they have in WCA to their lives in Massachusetts.” A gathering was held this spring, and a cocktail party (with spouses) is being planned for up north. Women from the Michigan Branch met and planned a gathering for when they return to Michigan. Judy Hocher and Rosalie Gold said that everyone who came to the initial get-together is eager to continue the friendships that began in Naples. Lourie Rapport reported that the opening meeting of the Ohio Branch was very successful. “Friends were made and emails exchanged.” The group is planning to meet again in Naples before the season ends and in Cleveland at the end of August. The New York City Metro Branch held a gathering on January 23. Marvelle Colby related, “It was warm and friendly, with exquisite results!” The women planned meetings in New York for June 12, July 10, August 14 and September 13. The first get-together of the Toronto Branch was held on January 25. The fifteen Canadian women who participated will meet again on August 21 for a tour of the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and lunch. Leslie Springman said, “An invitation is extended to Canadian members who were not able to attend the Naples event to come to the ROM, where we will also, no doubt, reminisce about our wonderful winter in sunny Naples.” The Washington, D.C./Maryland/Virginia Branch met February 24. Jean Haven reported, “Women discovered that they have lots of
similar interests and a great deal of talent in their group.” The women brainstormed ideas for programs to hold in Washington, D.C. as well as Naples. Plans are underway for gatherings in both places. WCA members who live in one of the nine geographic areas in which branches are forming will now be able to take the fun and joy of being part of WCA back home with them. If you are not already a member of WCA, this is one more reason to join WCA! If you live in one of these areas and have not yet been contacted, please get in touch with the branch leader: XX Cape Cod: Dale Riemer XX Connecticut: Chet Rivel XX Illinois: Roberta Ury XX Metro West Boston: Rolly Jacob XX Michigan: Judy Hocher and Rosalie Gold XX New York City Metro: Marvelle Colby XX Ohio: Lourie Rapport XX Toronto: Leslie Springman XX Washington, D.C./Maryland/ Virginia: Jean Haven WCA NYC Metro Branch Leader Marvelle Colby so aptly summed it all up when she sent the following email to the women in her branch: ...So mark your calendars NOW at this time For WCA members will always shine. Let’s stay in touch… Or you’ll miss much! If you are not yet a member of WCA, don’t miss out on the fun here in Naples. Complete the membership application on this page and submit it to WCA. You will soon start to receive emails about upcoming activities so that you too can join in the neverending fun of WCA!
Membership: $60 for the year includes all study groups. r My information below contains new items.
In Southwest Florida: r full-time r part-time (from ________ to ________)
Name: ________________________________________________________ Spouse or Partner Name, if applicable: _____________________________ Local Address: ________________________________________________ Community: __________________________________________________
For more information: Linda Simon, lgsimon2947@yahoo.com
City: ____________________________ State: _____ Zip Code ____________
Please make your check payable to: Jewish Federation of Collier County and mail with this form to: WCA Jewish Federation of Collier County 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Ste. 2201 Naples, FL 34109
Florida home phone:___________________________________________
Email: ________________________________________________________ Cell phone: __________________________________________________ Northern Address: _____________________________________________ City: ____________________________ State: _____ Zip Code ____________ Northern home phone: _________________________________________
May 2012 7 Federation Star COMMUNITY FOCUS
May 2012 Federation Star
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“Courage to Remember” exhibit By Jeff Margolis
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ourage to Remember,” a traveling exhibit of the Holocaust, arrived in Naples on March 27. The 40-panel photo retrospective came as a result of a grant awarded to the Foundation for California by the French National Railway. The photos and accompanying documents are from the permanent exhibit at the Museum of Tolerance, the educational branch of the Simon Wiesenthal Center in California. This unparalleled exhibit presented a graphic account of the Nazi atrocities and has been seen by over two million visitors at over 70 loca-
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GenShoah to discuss future plans By Ida Margolis
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enerations of the Shoah of SW Florida (GenShoah) will be holding its monthly meeting on Sunday, May 20 at 4:30 p.m. at the Holocaust Museum and Education Center of Southwest Florida. This is the last regularly scheduled meeting for this season. Among the topics to be discussed will be activities, goals and plans for next season. Some great suggestions for future activities have already been made, and members will want to hear about these. Input and volunteers are needed to help design a survey for members so that all ideas can be considered. And we’d like to know who will want to assist in making future plans a reality. Additionally, Steve Brazina will discuss two movies that he thinks will be of interest to GenShoah. Past participants, new members, guests and individuals interested in our mission of Holocaust education and preservation of memories of the Holocaust are always invited. April 2013 is the 70th anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto uprising. The following words of Marek Edelman, a hero of the Warsaw Ghetto, still resonate today: “We, who did not perish, leave it up to you…to keep the memory to them alive, forever.” If you are a child of survivors (a 2g) or a grandchild of survivors (a 3g), please join us for the meeting on May 20 at the Museum and share your ideas. If you have any questions or suggestions or if you are not on the email list for this group and would like to be, please email me at mrsmarg@ comcast.net. Individuals who have requested to be on the email list receive updates about meetings, minutes of meetings, and information about Holocaust related projects, events and activities. If you are planning to attend the meeting on May 20, please email me at mrsmarg@comcast.net.
For 11 “briefs” on Israel & the Jewish World, please see pages 20-21.
tions to date. The exhibit has traveled to churches, synagogues and college campuses around the country. The ribbon cutting ceremony, held at North Collier Park, was attended by Dr. Alfred Balitzer, Chairman of the Board of the Foundation for California, Naples Mayor John F. Sorey, Amy Snyder, Executive Director of the Holocaust Museum and Education Center of Southwest Florida, as well as several local Holocaust survivors, guests and many other local dignitaries. Among those who addressed the audience was Ida Margolis, a Naples
resident and child of Holocaust survivors. She spoke of the importance of remembering the horrors of the Holocaust and to educate younger generations who know little of the event. She emphasized that Holocaust deniers should not be allowed to murder victims a second time by killing their memory. Margolis is the chair of GenShoah of Southwest Florida, an organization of children of Holocaust survivors and others interested in preserving the memories of the Holocaust. The organization is sponsored by the
Ida Margolis
Holocaust Museum and Education Center of Southwest Florida. For more information about the exhibit, please visit www.courage toremember.com.
Update Your Passport
WCA is planning a trip to ISRAEL April 4-12, 2013 for WCA and Update Your Passport…We’re going to Israel adult Federation WCA is planning a trip to ISRAEL members
4-12, 2013Jordan, April 13-15 Optional ExtensionApril to Eilat & Petra, for WCA and adult Federation members
What’s included: April 4-12 4 nights – Inbal Jerusalem We will also offer an Extension to Eilat & Petra, Jordan, April 13‐15 2 nights – Kfar Blum Pastoral Hotel – located in the What’s included: April 4‐12 Upper Galilee on the banks of the Jordan River 4 nights – Inbal Jerusalem 2 nights – David Intercontinental Tel Aviv 2 nights – Kfar Blum Pastoral Hotel – located in the Upper Galilee on the banks of the Jordan River • Transfers to and from airport / hotel 2 nights – David Intercontinental Tel Aviv • Guides • Transfers to and from airport / hotel • Full Israeli breakfast each day with a lunch or dinner • Guides • Entrance fees • Full Israeli breakfast each day with a lunch or dinner • Tips to guides, driver, hotel staff • Entrance fees • Two options for tours (included) on days 3, 4, 5 & 6 • Tips to guides, driver, hotel staff •
Two options for tours (included) on days 3, 4, 5 & 6
Not included: Airfare, insurance, meals not mentioned
Not included: • EXTENSION: Airfare, insurance, meals not mentioned April 13-15 to Eilat
and Petra, Jordan
What’s Included: 3 nightsEXTENSION: April 13‐15 to Eilat and Petra, Jordan – Isrotel Royal Beach Eilat • Flight from Tel Aviv to Eilat and back to Tel Aviv What’s Included: • 1-day 3 nights – Isrotel Royal Beach Eilat Petra tour with guide • Full Israeli breakfast and Friday night dinner • Flight from Tel Aviv to Eilat and back to Tel Aviv •
1‐day Petra tour with guide Full Israeli breakfast and Friday night dinner
• PARTICIPATION LIMITED TO TWO (2) BUSES –
Approximately 80 Members
WE WILL LIMIT PARTICIPATION TO ONLY TWO (2) BUSES – Approximately 80 Members
COST OF TRIP – estimate of $2,500/person COST OF TRIP – estimate of $2,500 per person Single Supplement – estimate of $1,000 Single Supplement – estimate of $1,000
AIRFARE (COACH) – est. of $2,000/person AIRFARE (COACH) – estimate of $2,000 per person Business Class upgrade available Business Class upgrade available
EXTENSION EXTENSION TO EILAT AND PETRA – estimate of $1,200 per person TO EILAT AND PETRA – estimate of $1,200/person Single Supplement – estimate of $400 Single Supplement – estimate of $400
RESERVATIONS FOR LAND PACKAGE WILL BE ACCEPTED WITH $500 DEPOSIT PER PERSON PAYABLE TO THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF COLLIER COUNTY. ITINERARY AND APPLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE FEDERATION OFFICE OR EMAIL IRIS@JEWISHNAPLES.ORG FOR AN ELECTRONIC COPY.
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COMMUNITY FOCUS
Federation Star May 2012
Zionist Organization of America (ZOA) update By Gene Sipe, VP, Southwest Florida Chapter ZOA
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ocally, we have witnessed an increased number of rallies and video presentations claiming to show the so-called Israeli oppression of its Arab population. Consider, please, some of the facts not included in the “complete picture” being presented. Let’s start with security fences. My first impression on actually seeing these fences was that they are quite similar to those we have around our own gated communities, and in many cases far less obtrusive. The difference there of course is that they are erected in response to the daily threat of bombings from zealots intent on blowing up women and children at random. Statistics as of July 2010 indicate
that since the beginning of construction of the fence, attacks have declined by more than 90% and the number of Israelis murdered and wounded has decreased by more than 70% and 85% respectively. Since the Arabs declare that their intent remains unchanged on a daily basis, one must conclude the fence is an absolute necessity. Subsequently, freedom of movement is obviously and intentionally inhibited for the safety and well being of the citizenry. Israeli citizens include a 20+% Arab population who are also protected from the random carnage of suicide murders (exploding bombs know no ethnicity). Beyond that, freedoms are expand exponentially when compared to those afforded
Can We Kvell? Mazel Tov to Micah Greenstein on being selected as one of “America’s Top 50 Rabbis for 2012” by Newsweek magazine. Micah is the son of Lenore and the late Rabbi Howard Greenstein (past rabbi of the Jewish Congregation of Marco Island). Here’s what the magazine had to say about Micah: The only rabbi we’ve included from the American South, Greenstein is a star in Memphis, the senior rabbi of Reform Temple Israel, which has become a Jewish hub that draws also from Mississippi, Arkansas, and the Missouri bootheel. Greenstein is extolled for his magnetic energy and warmth, though even his diehard fans wish he would sometimes streamline his spiritedbut-meandering sermons. He has taken a public stand for gay rights, works on behalf of women’s empowerment in Cambodia, and is popular in the Christian community, where he has done substantial interfaith work. According to Memphis’s largest newspaper, The Commercial Appeal, the telegenic Greenstein “sparks crushes.”
Heading North? If you’re heading north at the end of the season, we’ll miss you! So let’s stay in touch. Please help us update our files by providing us with your northern address.
Please choose one of the following methods to provide us with the information below: • call us at 239.263.4205 • email your information to info@jewishnaples.org • complete this form and fax it to 239.263.3813 • complete and mail this form to: Jewish Federation of Collier County 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 2201 Naples, FL 34109 nk you!
Tha
Name: ________________________________________________ Northern Address: _____________________________________
to residents of the other 22 Muslim and Arab countries surrounding the tiny state of Israel. Israeli Arabs and women are not only are permitted to vote in Israel, they can and do hold high government office. Currently there are 14 Arab ministers in the Knesset, one of whom is an Israeli Arab woman. Israel, unlike its neighbors, does not permit brutal 7th century punishment of women or homosexuals. Honor killings are illegal and gay couples openly live their lifestyle without fear of repercussion. Crimes against women are considered so reprehensible that the Supreme Court upheld the conviction ruling by an Arab judge, Salim Jourban, of former Israeli President Moche Katsav for the crime of rape. Israeli religious freedoms are incomparable in the Middle East. Unlike the 100,000 Arab Christians forced to flee Egypt and the 3,000 Christians currently facing persecution in Hamas-controlled Gaza, to mention only a few situations, freedom of religion is anchored in Israeli law. Five of the major world religions are officially recognized. And members of unrecognized religions are, by law, also free to practice openly. Hadassah hospitals are world renowned for their high level of care for people of all ages, regardless of religion or ethnic origin, as evidenced by their nomination for a Nobel Peace Prize. The quality of care is
additionally enhanced by the cooperation and coexistence of a mixed staff of all faiths and backgrounds. Israel places a high value on education for everyone and, in 2000, passed the Pupils’ Rights Law, which prohibits programs that have different rights, obligations or disciplinary standards for students of any heritage or religious conviction. May meeting The ZOA’s May meeting will be graciously hosted by Beth Tikvah at 1459 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, on Tuesday, May 15 at 7:30 p.m. The topic will be The Importance of the American and Israeli Alliance presented by Brian Owens and Trey Radel, candidates for the Florida House of Representatives, 14th Congressional District. Take this opportunity to hear the candidates’ vision of the American/Israeli Alliance and his views on the volatile situation in the Middle East and the nuclear developments in Iran. This program is open to the public and free of charge. RSVP no later than two days prior to the event to the email addresses mentioned below. You can learn more about the ZOA and what you can do to help support Israel by visiting www.zoa. org. If you are interested in learning about combating anti-Semitism and about our local chapter, email chapter president Jerry Sobel at jerrysobel@ aol.com or me at mrnsrvr@gmail.com with your questions.
The Jewish Federation thanks the Office Volunteers for 2011-12 The following individuals provided wonderful assistance to the Federation staff this year in the office, at events and through our weekly communications to our members. It is our pleasure to thank them publicly for their interest and commitment to the Jewish Federation of Collier County. We are truly grateful for their assistance in our growing organization.
Heather Aizenshtat Esther Barg Betsy Borden Arlene Copeland Arlene Tannenbaum O’Leary
Harold Rappaport Betty & Les Schwartz Dr. Ivan Seligman Arlene & Michael Sobol
If you are interested in volunteering with the Federation during the fall and winter season, contact Melissa Keel at 239.263.4205 or melissa@jewishnaples.org.
The Center for
Judaic, Holocaust, & Human Rights Studies Educating the Southwest Florida community through lectures, interfaith seminars, cultural events, teacher-training sessions, and other activities
_____________________________________________________ Northern Phone: ______________________________________
Visit our website for more information and upcoming events:
Email: ________________________________________________
http://www.fgcu.edu/hc
Leaving SW Florida: ___________________________________ Returning to SW Florida: ________________________________
10501 FGCU Boulevard South • Fort Myers, Florida 33965 www.fgcu.edu
COMMUNITY FOCUS May 2012 9 Federation Star
May 2012 Federation Star
9
HOLOCAUST MUSEUM & ED CTR OF SWFL www.holocaustmuseumswfl.org / 239-263-9200
A time for remembrance and renewal By Amy Snyder, Executive Director
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pring is a time for renewal and new growth. It is the time we come out of our winter blues and get ready for the sunshine and warm breezes. Except, of course in Florida, where it is summer all the time…but I digress. Not only is spring a time for renewal, it is also a time for reflection. Last month in Collier County, we had the privilege of participating in a community-wide event to recognize Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day. Remembering has a very specific purpose throughout history, and certainly pertaining to the Holocaust. Not only are we charged to “not forget” the
Holocaust, we should also be actively engaged in the act of remembering it. We do that by sharing the stories of our local survivors and their families with our students and visitors so they, too, will “remember.” We can also “remember” by assisting a person in need. Our actions today can honor the memory of those lost during the Holocaust. For them, simple acts of kindness toward those in the ghettos and camps were rare or non-existent. By respecting those in need, we remember those lost through no fault of their own in the Holocaust. This is also the time of year that
we remember all our service men and women, particularly those who have died in service to our nation. Memorial Day has always held a special place in my heart. Each of us has a responsibility to remember those who fought on our behalf. Thanks to their sacrifices, every American today is able to pursue life, liberty and happiness. We are still a nation of promise for those willing to work hard. We are a nation of equality for those willing to give that same respect to others. We are a nation that shines the light of freedom in more ways than one, as so many of our Holocaust survivors will attest. But if we fail to
remember the past and honor those who make our freedom possible, then it will be lost. Spring is the time for remembrance and renewal. It is imperative that we take every opportunity afforded us to listen to and learn from those who have gone before. The lessons from Holocaust survivors and war veterans are incredibly valuable and not to be taken for granted. A clear path forward can only be seen when we know the path behind. Let each of us take the time to look to the past as we move forward into this new season.
Fifth Annual PFLAG Interfaith Convocation By Ruth Dorfman
S
triving to cultivate unity in our community, and understanding and cooperation among groups and individuals of all religious and spiritual faiths, 17 houses of worship are participating in creating the 5th Annual PFLAG Interfaith Convocation. Through music and prayer engaging our hearts, minds and spirits, our community will experience how good and appropriate it is to join together not just by including, but also by celebrating with the gay and lesbian members of our families. Harmony and unity in song will be
heard as a myriad of voices blend in melodies inspired by the psalmists words, “Behold how good and how pleasant it is when people dwell in Unity.” Welcoming people of all faiths and generations to join in this extraordinary endeavor, Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) is sponsoring the Interfaith Convocation. PFLAG is an international parent-based organization that was started by heterosexual parents wanting to understand and help their gay children. PFLAG’s role is to serve as a support group providing
ArtsNaples World Festival A weeklong festival scheduled for May 12-18 in Naples
T
he ArtsNaples World Festival promises to be an extravaganza for the senses featuring 60 eclectic shows and performances including guest instrumentalists, conductors, vocalists, artists, repertoire, theater, film, fashion, jazz, education, literature, history and cuisine. This six-day festival will focus its attention on all things Russia, allowing visitors and residents to immerse themselves in indigenous Russian art forms throughout Collier County, from Immokalee to Downtown Naples. His Excellency, Sergey I. Kislyak, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the United States of America, will serve as the Honorary Chair of the 2012 ArtsNaples World Festival. There are several ticket options available, including $25 tickets for
piano recitals at the von Liebig; $35 tickets for chamber music at the von Liebig; $40 tickets for theater at The Sugden; Opening Night and The Three Pianists at The Phil with tickets ranging in price from $20-$42; Eugene Onegin at The Phil with tickets ranging in price from $25-$95. Tickets for these events as well as for exhibits at the von Liebig, The Naples Museum of Art, the Golisano Children’s Museum, Russian Cinema, and Fashion Show may be purchased through the festival website at www. ArtsNaplesWorldFestival.org or by calling 877-592-ARTS. The ArtsNaples World Festival will firmly place Naples on the cultural arts map of the world as one of the top cultural arts destinations in America.
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a non-judgmental outlet for feelings, questions and understanding as well as making available resources and educational opportunities. The Convocation will be a unique opportunity to foster a sense of acceptance and belonging for all people of faith to pray together without discrimination, disenfranchisement or stigma. The PFLAG Interfaith Convocation will be the chance for all of us, together, to share our traditions and rituals to provide the critical elements of public acknowledgement and social sanctions that are strengthened by communal worship.
Special guest speakers sharing their personal lourney will be Rev. Ronald Patterson and authors B.A. Buttz and Rabbi Andrea Myers. The PFLAG Interfaith Convocation will be held on Sunday, May 6 at 3:00 p.m. at Temple Shalom, 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. A celebratory reception will follow the worship service. The public is welcome. Further information is available at www.PFLAGInterfaith.com. Naples PFLAG meets at 7:00 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month.
Max Miller: Final Mourner’s Kaddish 333 Days In Paintings Thru May 13, 2012 Max Miller's grief provides inspiration for a vivid account of his year spent saying Kaddish (the Jewish prayer of mourning), for his father. The 50 vibrant watercolors depict synagogues Miller visited in New York, Vermont, Ohio and Florida, along with commentary on his experiences. While honoring the Jewish tradition of memorializing a parent, Miller learned a great deal about his father and their shared heritage. Cuban Hebrew Congregation, Miami Beach, FL, watercolor, 2005.
This exhibition by Max Miller originated at the Yeshiva University Museum in New York City and is sponsored by New York Foundation for the Arts.
Local Sponsor: Robert Arthur Segall Foundation
Kehilath Jeshurun, Upper East Side, New York City, watercolor, 2005.
NAOMI ALEXANDER Once Upon a Time in LITHUANIA & the Florida Connection T hru September 30, 2012 English artist Naomi Alexander, ROI, records the last remnants of Jewish heritage in Lithuania today. Alexander traveled the country depicting her impressions of the people and their communities. The Museum adds photographs, artifacts and stories from Floridian Jews whose origins are from Lithuania. Kitchen interior, Zeizmariai, detail, oil on wood, 2003.
Organized by the London Jewish Cultural Centre in association with the Ben Uri Gallery, the London Jewish Museum of Art.
Woman of Telz and red door, oil on wood-triptych, 2002.
Local Sponsors: Sarita, Jimmy & Lidia Resnick and Deborah & Bruce Kaye in memory of Sonia & Nochim Golomb.
Also enjoy our core exhibit MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Florida, Museum Store & Bessie’s Bistro
Get the latest information on upcoming community events and cultural activities, news from Israel, important news updates and lots more.
Send an email to info@jewishnaples.org or visit www.jewishnaples.org.
The Museum is supported by individual contributions, foundations, memberships and grants from the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, Florida Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts; the Miami-Dade County Board of Commissioners and its Cultural Affairs Council and Tourist Development Council; and the City of Miami Beach and its Cultural Arts Council.
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JEWISH INTEREST
Federation Star May 2012
Book Review Religious leaders are just like the rest of us – almost By Philip K. Jason, Special to the Federation Star Chazzonos, by Lyle Rockler. iUniverse. 276 pages. $17.95.
L
yle Rockler, himself a trained cantor (or chazzan) has drawn a remarkable, engaging portrait of middle-aged cantor Hal Perlmutter as he reaches several crossroads in his professional and personal life. The novel’s timeline involves six months in Cantor Hal’s life as he prepares for retirement, decides to remarry, struggles to improve his relationships with his adult son and daughter, Phil Jason loses old friends to death, and strives to tame the simmering rage within him that too often boils over into conflict and pain. Extended flashbacks illuminate Hal’s upbringing in Minneapolis, his family and community life as a child, his tempestuous experience as a husband and father, and pieces of his twenty years in the job from which he wishes to retire. We hear about his parents’ constant arguing, Hal’s early fondness for Jewish liturgical singing (chazzonos), and the maturation of that youthful infatuation into a calling and a career.
Both in the foreground and background of the novel is abundant information about the majestic cantors who reigned during the golden age of chazzonos: their innovations, their individual styles, their importance to Jewish culture, and their ability to lift worshippers (as well as just plain music lovers) into a spiritual realm. Hal Perlmutter is, perhaps, among the last disciples of these giants. They represent a fading world that deserves a permanent place of honor in the collective memory. Perhaps because of his uncomfortable home life as a child, Hal made very close friendships with two women of his parents’ generation. One such friendship developed with Molly, a neighbor in Minneapolis. Another, many years later, developed with Anna, a Holocaust survivor in his New Jersey community of Mirthgate. In the course of the novel, Hal loses both of these surrogate mothers. From Molly, Hal inherits enough money to plan a comfortable retirement. From Anna, who dies just before Hal remarries, his inheritance is less tangible. It includes such values as enhanced
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self-awareness, courage and flexibility. It’s as if Hal is finally ready to be an adult instead of an aging child. Connected with his delayed maturation is the influence of Mimi, the true love of his life, who has the right mix of patience and sternness, of life’s joys and life’s responsibilities. Equally important, and aided by Mimi’s influence, is his acceptance of his children’s decisions and lifestyles, which at first make him cringe. When his gay son reluctantly shares news of his intimate relationship with a much older man, Cantor Hal is horrified and hostile. He is only relatively calmer when he meets his daughter’s boyfriend, an ultra-Orthodox young man. Slowly, he comes to see these people as individuals rather than types and realizes that their choices are not about him. Lyle Rockler’s knowledgeable and accurate portrait of congregational life – its texture, patterns, and politics – is another ingredient in the book’s interest and success. He handles the social dynamics of the community to which Hal has given twenty years of his life with a mixture of respect and critical insight. It is not an incidental to the book’s spiritual power and charm that expressing Hal’s love for chazzonos requires that author Rockler provide the transliterations and translations of many key phrases from the Jewish Hebrew liturgy. His decisions about making these selections and incorporating them into the story of Hal’s life are effective. We understand, even without hearing the majestic melodies to which these
words are set, their inspirational power. Cantor Henry (Hal) Perlmutter is a very imperfect individual. He can be childish and abrasive. His thoughts, works and behavior will frequently grate on readers’ sensibilities. Yet Lyle Rockler creates a compelling, sympathetic portrait. With his emphasis on
Lyle Rockler
Hal’s increasing stability, maturity and lessons learned, Rockler provides a unique kind of everyman. This review was originally published in Florida Weekly and is reprinted by permission. Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeritus of English from the United States Naval Academy. He reviews regularly for the Naples edition of Florida Weekly and for Fort Myers Magazine. For more of Phil’s insights and reviews, as well as literature/publishing links, visit his website at www. philjason.wordpress.com. Lyle Rockler is the cantor and religious leader of Temple Beth El – North Port Jewish Center. He conducts all religious services, teaches classes and brings a strong commitment to the growth and vitality of the synagogue, located at 3840 S. Biscayne Drive, North Port, Florida.
A SPECIAL THANK YOU On March 1, 2012, Jewish Family and Community Services of Southwest Florida moved to a new location at 5025 Castello Drive in Naples. JFCS, formerly known as Jewish Family Services, was a division of the Jewish Federation of Collier County until November 2011, when we separately incorporated and changed our name to reflect our expanded efforts to meet the social service needs of the southwest Florida community. The board and staff of JFCS wishes to express its deep appreciation to the Jewish Federation of Collier County for providing us with major financial support which has enabled us to make this transition. The support, when combined with donations from the community, allows us to continue the important work of helping those most in need in our community. Jewish Family and Community Services of Southwest Florida is a non-sectarian human service agency providing a wide range of social services, including mental health counseling, support, and geriatric case management to the Southwest Florida community. We look forward to seeing you at our new location and hearing from you at info@jfcsswfl.org. Visit us on the web at www.jfcsswfl.org.
stay connected at www.jewishnaples.org
JEWISH INTEREST 11 Federation Star May 2012
May 2012 Federation Star
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Stars of David: Celebrities with Sunshine State connections By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist Lauren Miller marches to her own drummer SETH ROGEN, 30, a very average looking fellow, became an unlikely film star in the last five years with a string of hits including Knocked Up, Superbad, The Pineapple Express and 50/50. His Canadian parents met on an Israeli kibbutz and he attended an Orthodox elementary school in Vancouver. Rogen jump-started his career by writing or co-writing most of the films that he has starred-in. In 2010, Rogen and his girlfriend of four years, LAUREN MILLER, also now 30, were engaged. Miller, a filmmaker who has had small parts in several Rogen films, was raised on Long Island, New York and in Lakeland, Florida. In 2003, she wrote and directed a short dramatic film, Happy Holidays, about the difficulties a Jewish girl faces when she is ‘inundated’ with Christmas. This girl feels particularly besieged when her (public) middle school teacher asks her, and the rest of the class, to write a letter to Santa Claus. The film is semi-autobiographical – Miller, a very pretty woman, was a cheerleader at her Florida high school, but she raised a stir when she refused to march in Lakeland’s Christmas parade with the rest of her squad. Happy Holidays was shown at the Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival, and the Festival Board was so taken with the film that they created, on the spot, a “best college student film award” and gave it to Miller. On October 1, 2011, Rogen and Miller wed in a Jewish ceremony held in a vineyard in Sonoma, California. Guests included Rogen’s frequent co-stars ADAM SANDLER, PAUL RUDD and JONAH HILL. Director JUDD APATOW, who gave Rogen his first big breaks (the TV series Freaks and Geeks, and the film Knocked Up), was also in attendance.
Rogen honored writer WILL REISER at his wedding. Reiser, who wrote the script for Rogen’s hit film “50/50 (which was inspired by Reiser’s own fight with cancer), was the person who first introduced Miller to Rogen. In February 2012, the film For a Good Time Call got raves at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival. Miller and ARI GRAYNOR, 29, play two women who run a sex call service and there’s a lot of graphic humor. Miller co-wrote the film with another woman, and its director is a woman, too. (It’s scheduled for limited release in September 2012). The film takes its cue, a bit, from Bridesmaids, the huge 2011 hit that proved that a “raunchy comedy” about women and written by women could be box office gold. The Los Angeles Times caught-up with Miller and Rogen at the Sundance Festival, and satirically labeled Rogen “a trophy husband.” The reporter pointed out to Rogen (who has a small role in his wife’s movie) that he really had “no official business” at the festival and didn’t that make him “arm-candy” for his wife? Rogen laughed and replied, “Yeah, I guess it does [but] honestly, it’s not bad. It’s a lot less stressful than normal.” Rookie cops and a real life murder The CBS series NYC 22 premiered on April 15 and new episodes can be seen on Sundays at 10:00 p.m. It follows six diverse NYPD rookies as they patrol the gritty streets of upper Manhattan (mostly Harlem). The rookies’ supervisor is played by ADAM GOLDBERG, 41 (“The Hebrew Hammer”). One of the rookies is played by Leelee Sobieski, 28 (Glass House, Warsaw Ghetto Uprising). Sobieski’s maternal grandfather, a Navy officer, was Jewish, and in 2010 she wed ADAM KIMMEL, 33, a very successful menswear designer. The couple has a young daughter.
Is there a Treasure in your Attic? Yiddish Books are a Cultural Treasure of the Jewish People The National Yiddish Book Center is a non-profit organization working to save Yiddish culture. Please check around your home for old Yiddish books and records, and inquire among friends and relatives. Gifts of these books are tax deductible. Please drop off your Yiddish books and records at the Jewish Federation, for further delivery to the National Yiddish Book Center, or call Louis Rusitzky at 455-6447 to schedule a pick-up. Visit the National Yiddish Book Center at www.yiddishbookcenter.org.
For a continuously updated community calendar, visit www.jewishnaples.org.
Editor’s note: Persons in BOLD CAPS are deemed by Nate Bloom to 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 Judaism – and don’t identify with a faith other than Judaism as an adult. Converts to Judaism, of course, are also identified as Jewish. Sobieski, who wasn’t raised in an organized religion, has expressed great affinity for her “Jewish roots” in past interviews, and I think it’s just possible that she has quietly converted to Judaism. Kimmel’s late father, MARTIN S. KIMMEL, was a billionaire real estate developer (his company built over 100 shopping centers in Florida alone). He was a “huge giver” to medical charities in the States. He also gave millions to Israel’s Weizmann Institute. Adam’s mother’s father, the late DONALD ARONOW, became a millionaire before he was 30,
developing New Jersey properties. He moved to Coral Gables, Florida in 1964, where he designed the famous speedy “cigarette” boats that were later prominently featured on Miami Vice. He used this boat to twice win the world powerboat championship. Many older Floridians may recall that Aronow was shot to death in 1987 while leaving a Miami-area boat yard. His murder has never been solved. Gangland involvement was suspected since his cigarette boats were used by Federal drug agents and also by drug smugglers.
Interested in Your Family’s History? Ten years of doing a Jewish celebrities column has turned Nate Bloom (see column above) into something of an expert on finding basic family history records and articles mentioning a “searched-for” person. During these 10 years, he has put together a small team of “mavens” who aid his research. Most professional family history experts charge at least $1,000 for a full family tree. However, many people just want to get “started” by tracing one particular family branch.
So here’s the deal: Email Nate at middleoftheroad1@aol.com, tell him you saw this ad in the Federation Star, and include your phone number (area code, too). Nate will then contact you about doing a “limited” family history for you at a modest cost (no more than $100). No upfront payment.
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5% of the purchase price will be donated to a Jewish organization of your choice
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Federation Star May 2012
JEWISH INTEREST
History of the cantorate By Cantor Donna Azu
I
n my previous articles, I traced the role of the chazzan from Talmudic times through the 7th century, and the development of the prayer book and liturgical poetry that created a demand for a Shaliach Tsibur (prayer leader). Eventually, the professional Cantor, who was both appointed and paid, emerged. The Reform movement brought about many historical and musical changes as well. In 1810 Germany, anything that sounded “too Jewish” was banned from Reform services and everything was read in German instead of Hebrew in an effort to make the service more refined. A four-part choir sang prayers that were translated into German and sounded like Protestant hymns. Those musical changes also made their way into the United States. This was the musical style of American Protestant churches, and assimilated American Jews eagerly took on this style of worship. Eventually, most synagogue music was English translations of Hebrew prayers arranged to imitate hymns. Cantors were also considered outdated and were replaced by non-Jewish musi-
cians, choirs and organists. By the beginning of the 20 th century, traditional Jewish music was reintroduced back into services by Jewish composers who were now musical directors of large synagogues. They created a new style of Jewish music by mixing traditional Jewish melodies with an American style in such a way that they elevated synagogue music to a higher artistic level. This new type of song, or American nusach, also strove to recognize the Holocaust, which began to raise Jewish consciousness. Jews were under siege in Europe, and Jewish leaders viewed musical participation as a means to help congregants feel at home with their Jewish identity. As a result, Reform synagogues developed programming to help congregants rediscover their Jewish identities by connecting family rituals with traditional music. The period following World War II saw major changes in the American Jewish community. A new wave of immigration brought refugees from Europe to America and, in 1948, the School of Sacred Music was finally
established to train cantors within the Reform movement at The Hebrew Union College, which had been training rabbis since the late 19 th century. Increased immigration to the United States also led to the growth of suburbia and the proliferation of synagogues outside major city centers. These new congregations were started by young people with strong ideas about their role in the synagogue service and who were eager to be actively involved. However, the cantorial training school was dominated by faculty who had trained with the old European models and the “high church” style of practice continued to dominate the training of cantors. In the 1960s and 1970s, a new genre of worship music grew out of the Reform summer camp movement. Reform services had been dominated by the use of organ and choir. New music was being composed for guitar and group singing. This new style focused on making the music simpler, largely in Hebrew and thoroughly democratic in its sing-ability. This new paradigm was the most significant change to the modern
cantorate, influencing the move from a congregation of listeners to a congregation of participants. As a result, today’s cantor is responsible for teaching and leading the congregation in song and for crafting a worship experience that is communal. Ordained Cantors function as Clergy and attend five years of seminary alongside their rabbinic colleagues including one year of study in Israel. For 200 years, the cantor has served as the Jewish People’s prayer leader before God, as a conduit of liturgical poetry and song, and as educator and communal leader. Today, the cantor is part of a professional synagogue team, with rabbis and educators, working to enhance Jewish life. In addition to facilitating meaningful communal worship through synagogue music, old and new, cantors are developing specialties in education, temple administration, counseling, youth work, the liturgical arts and synagogue programming. As a calling and a career, the cantorate continues to wed the worlds of spirit and art.
Why Google is more Jewish than Facebook By Dovid Efune
fter filing to go public on February 1, Facebook’s highly anticipated offering is expected to be the largest in history, as the company is valued at up to $100 billion. The largest tech IPO since Google, market and technologyfocused outlets have been buzzing with comparisons between the two goliaths of the web and their ever heated competitiveness. But how do they match up when it comes to Jewish sensitivities? Writing for CNN Money, Miguel Helft and Jessi Hempel wrote about Facebook and Google that, “In the long history of tech rivalries, rarely
A
has there been a battle as competitive as the raging war between the web’s wonder twins.” Their opposition to each other is played out in the public’s day-to-day online decision making. Many web users have at some point considered if enough of their friends are on Google+ to justify managing a second social media account, or, now that Facebook has an email function, should they shut down their gmail account and exclusively communicate though Facebook? Keeping a close eye on the web traffic statistics of our site algemeiner. com, Google slightly leads Facebook
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Jewish Heritage Video Collection The Jewish Heritage Video Collection (JHVC) is now housed and maintained at the Federation’s offices. The JHVC video library contains nearly 200 films and television programs carefully chosen to stimulate learning, thinking and discussion about Jewish history and culture. The Collection also provides courses that address vital issues of Jewish history, identity and culture. These courses will be available to schools, organizations and congregations in the area. For a list of available titles organized by category (Children, Comedy, Holocaust, International Jewry, Israel, Jewish Experience in America, Religion and Identity), visit www.jewishnaples.org. For more information, call us at 239.263.4205.
as our greatest traffic source, but both significantly dwarf all other sources. To a large degree our web strategy is built around our awareness that most Internet users begin their daily information consumption routines at one of these two portals. Helft and Hempel claim that the result of the struggle between the companies will ascertain our future direction online, writing, “these companies are fighting to see which of them will determine the future of the web – and the outcome will affect the way we get information, communicate, and buy and sell.” It is more likely, however, that the reverse is true. It is the evolution of our habits that will give either company the edge over the other, as Facebook and Google respectively represent opposing modes of intellectual modus operandi. The future will be determined by the consumer, not the techies. In Google’s web, the journey of discovery begins around a question, an idea, a thought or a project. A favorite of the intellectually curious, Google’s home page is completely blank, thus the individual must take the initiative and direct the page’s population with content. “Everything starts with a search...If you want to learn about a medical condition or decide which television to buy, you search,” the CNN article explains. The path to Facebook on the other hand often begins in a vacuum and is essentially the refuge of the intellectually lazy or becomes our destination during our intellectually lazy moments, as the article continues “rather than search for a news article, you wait for your friends to tell you what to read.”
Writing for the Wall Street Journal, anthropologist Lionel Tiger argues that indeed Facebook’s appeal is to our most primal selves. He writes, “Mr. Zuckerberg has re-primatized a group of humans of unprecedented number, diffusion and intensity... And why? Just because we’re primates with endlessly deep interest in each other, with a knack and need to groom each other – either physically, as monkeys do, or with “What a nice hairdo/dress/divorce/promotion!” as Facebookworms do.” Google however represents a stark contrast. In the book Start-Up Nation, Yoelle Maarek, head of Google Israel’s research and development center, explains the Jewish roots of ‘search,’ saying, “As Israelis and Jews, we are the people of the Book. We like to consult texts. We like to search.” The book’s authors also point out that, “In 2008 Google Israel sold $100 million in advertising, about double the previous year and 10 percent of the total advertising market in Israel – a higher market share than Google has in most countries.” Throughout history, intellectual rigor and tireless exploration of the world we live in have been qualities that Jews have striven toward. As such, whilst both Facebook and Google are creations of young Jewish whiz kids, Google is the platform that should appeal most to the aspirational Jew within. The author is the director of the Algemeiner Journal and the Gershon Jacobson Jewish Continuity Foundation (www.gjcf.com), and can be e-mailed at defune@gjcf.com. Please visit www.algemeiner.com for more information.
FOCUS ON YOUTH 13 Federation Star May 2012
May 2012 Federation Star
13
Temple Shalom Preschool update By Seyla Cohen, Preschool Director
E
nrollment for the 2012-2013 school calendar has begun and plans are underway for another exciting and stimulating year at Temple Shalom Preschool. Each year brings a new set of challenges and improvements for teachers and classrooms alike. It is my goal as Preschool Director to keep abreast of the latest, most innovative education methods and equipment available in order to meet the needs of today’s learning environment. In addition to the established
curriculum offered for ages birth - 5, various extra-curricular activities such as art, fitness, dramatic arts, music, nutrition and computer are part of the preschool program. Storyland, an exceptional, innovative library/ dramatic play area was created several years ago. This one-of-a-kind children’s library, complete with stage and puppet theater, promotes literacy as well as giving young children the opportunity to use their imaginations to dream, perform and explore their uniqueness. In keeping with the ideals of the preschool, improvements continue. This upcoming school year, Temple Shalom Preschool is introducing a new science lab in which children will be given the opportunity for hands-on experimentation and Scenes from the Temple Shalom Preschool Passover exploration of the world around them. Plans include the formation of an interactive, participatory children’s garden. We are grateful for the receipt of grant funds from the Jewish Federation of Collier County and fundraising efforts by parents (like our wonderful Art Auction) which
Temple Shalom Youth Group – a personal account By Dorothy Pirrone
N
AwTY...Just one acronym that means so much to me. Naples AWesome Temple Youth has been such a vital part of my life for so long that I can’t believe my time here is almost over. Not only am I the current youth group president, and have been an active member of both NAwTY and junior NAwTY since back in middle school, but I have also participated in youth group on the regional level with NFTY for many years now. For anyone who isn’t familiar with these crazy Jewish acronyms, NFTY stands for North American Federation of Temple Youth. I bleed youth group, but I love it! From having water fights at our car washes to planning a Disney-themed Purim, there have been some great memories. But youth group isn’t only just memories. Although it is a place to hang out with my Jewish friends or do some fun activities, like sleepovers at the temple, it is also much more. It is a part of me. Through my years with NAwTY, I have learned about social issues
and what it means to give from the heart, Judaism in depth, our beautiful culture, and also some lifelong lessons such as how to work with others and how to stay positive when things get tough (some people today still need to learn how to do this). I know that I will take these valuable lessons and experiences with me to college and use them throughout my life. As I leave, I can only hope the current youth groupers take as much out of youth group as I have. When asked the question about what youth group means to me, so many things come to mind. But my final answer should really be what it means to you, because NAwTY needs the support and love from everyone involved to prosper and keep producing the amazing results of a well-rounded Jewish teen. When I enter college, one of the first things I would like to do is find a community much like youth group. That way I know I am in a great place surrounded by people who love the same things I do. I guess the only thing left to say is...Peace, Love and NAwTY.
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support and benefit the school and its families, and make these improvements possible. The school’s technology program continues to enhance as the staff participates in continuing education courses, learning of the latest advances in early childhood education.
This, combined with the warm, loving care provided by the teachers and the values contributed by Rabbi Miller and Cantor Azu, create an idyllic atmosphere in which children of all backgrounds and faiths within the Naples community are able to benefit and thrive.
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Federation Star May 2012
COMMUNITY FOCUS
Tributes
Tributes to the UJA Federation Campaign To: From:
Anne & Peter Klein In memory of Anne’s beloved mother, Annette Bernstein Kathy & Bill Hughes Sheila & Alvin Becker Ellen & Dr. Gary Gersh Lois & Richard Janger Corky & Dr. Alan Kaplan Rosalee & Jerry Bogo Dorothy & Irving Litt
To: From:
Anne & Peter Klein In honor of the birth of your grandson, Zachary Aiden Klein Arlene & Bob Subin Helen & Dr. Edward Rosenthal
To: David Willens In your honor From: Mae Riefberg To: From:
Madeleine Michaels In memory of your beloved husband, George Michaels Joan Mann Diane & Gil Block
To: From:
Lea Mendel In memory of your beloved grandson, Avi Kurganoff Rosalee & Jerry Bogo Phyllis & Michael Seaman Bunny Levere
To: Shereen & David Willens Wishing Shereen a complete recovery From: Joyce & Si Lozow To: From:
Trudy Gilman In memory of your beloved husband, Arthur Gilman Charlotte G. Milavsky
To: From:
Sybil Brown & Family In memory of beloved husband, father & grandfather, Allan Brown Bunny Levere
To: From:
Elaine Krieger & Family In memory of beloved husband, father & grandfather, Sam Krieger Bunny Levere
To: From:
Phyllis Aaron In memory of your beloved son, Roger S. Aaron Edna Flagel
To: Judge Morton Riefberg In honor of your special birthday From: Carole Soling To: Dr. Donald Pomerantz In honor of your special birthday From: Carole Soling To: Norma & Herb Handelsman In honor of your 60th Anniversary From: Beth & Irv Povlow
Jewish Federation of Collier County extends: • • • • • • •
Condolences to Lea Mendel & Family on the passing of her grandson, Avi Kurganoff Condolences to Madeleine Michaels & Family on the passing of her husband, George Michaels Condolences to Marvin Lender & Family on the passing of his brother, Murray Lender Condolences to Elaine Kreiger & Family on the passing of her husband, Sam Kreiger Condolences to Sybil Brown & Family on the passing of her husband, Allan Brown Condolences to Stuart Bulmash & Family on the passing of his wife, Barbara Bulmash Condolences to Polster /Dickerson Family on the passing of their father, Harold Polster
The Catholic/Jewish Dialogue extends: • Condolences to Fr. Russell Wright on the passing of his father, Allan Wright
Comfort... To Temple Shalom on their
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May 2012 COMMUNITY FOCUS 15 Federation Star
May 2012 Federation Star
Recent events NCJW Fashion Show
National Council of Jewish Women held its annual fashion show on March 22 at the Vineyards Country Club. Casual Connection provided the fashions. This fundraiser benefits the children at Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA) as well as Jewish Family and Community Services’ Children’s Fund. A wonderful fashion show, with our members modeling, fabulous door prizes, and a delicious lunch were enjoyed by close to a hundred women.
through
15
MAY 12, 2012
“There’s no such thing as natural beauty...”
Comedy drama by Robert Harling, sponsored by Florida Weekly
Everybody who is anybody goes to Truvy’s Beauty Salon in Louisiana.
A musical for the family May 26 June 24 NCJW Fashion Show co-chairs Doris Feuer, Carol Emerson, Bobbie Katz
2 & 4 p.m. Saturday & Sunday only
by James E. Grote & George Howe based on the book by Doreen Cronin pictures by Betsy Lewin
It’s cold in the barn. What are the cows supposed to do?
2012-13 Season subscriptions on sale now. Go on line for complete listing
Call 263-7990
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Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave. S., Naples FL, 34102 www . naplesplayers . org • Gift Certificates available
Announcing the launch of... NCJW Fashion Show models: Marcelle Reiss, Carol Alderman, Sue Carbo, Hedy Weinberger, Gayle Dorio, June Rivkin
“Seder in a Box”
This year, the Jewish Congregation of Marco Island was very happy to be part of Jewish Family and Community Services’ “Seder in a Box” program. Through this program, our congregation collected money to purchase Kosher for Passover food for financially-challenged individuals and families who are part of the JFCS financial assistance program. On Monday morning, April 2, representatives from JCMI joined congregants from Beth Tikvah, Temple Shalom and Naples Jewish Congregation at the new headquarters of JFCS and put together 75 bags filled with Kosher for Passover food. A $25 Publix gift card was part of the package so that individuals and families could purchase fresh vegetables, fruit and meat to have as part of their holiday meal. Bert Thompson - Jewish Congregation of Marco Island, Nancy Greenberg Temple Shalom, Susan Hammerman - Beth Tikvah, Harvey Brenner - JCMI, Kathy Feinstein - JFCS, Rabbi Sylvin Wolf - Naples Jewish Congregation, Debbie Slutsker - Beth Tikvah, Stan Weiner Naples Jewish Congregation
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Federation Star May 2012
COMMUNITY FOCUS
Temple Shalom’s 50th Anniversary Gala, March 17
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Federation Star May 2012
18
COMMUNITY FOCUS
Federation holds “Friend Raiser” on Marco Island
A
t the end of March, the Jewish Federation of Collier County held a fundraiser as a “Friend Raiser” to connect and reconnect our friends on Marco Island and Fiddler’s Creek to the important work of the Federation. The Federation recognizes this important segment of our community. Our thanks go to Maxine and Chuck Shapiro, Nan and Michael Suffian, and Joan and Bert Thompson, the committee who organized and hosted a lovely wine and cheese reception at Hideaway Beach.
The weather was warm, but the atmosphere was even warmer as nearly 70 gathered for friendship. Bert Thompson, a Trustee on the Federation Board, spoke about the many initiatives and life-saving work of the Federation – locally, nationally, in Israel and overseas.
Sandy & Leonard Schuman and Phyllis & Sam Borr
Herb Kern, Gene White, Michael Suffian
Selma & Howard Rosen Joan Thompson, Ed & Karen Saeks Federation’s Marco Island event committee: Michael & Phyllis Seaman, Chuck & Maxine Shapiro, Nan & Michael Suffian, Joan & Bert Thompson
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19
First seder in the homeland
M
evaseret Zion, Israel (April 2, 2012) – The little girls stood on stage holding up a child’s painting of the Ten Commandments, quietly but confidently singing Who Knows One, the traditional Passover song about Jewish icons such as the Five Books of Moses, the Four Matriarchs, the Three Patriarchs, the two Tablets that Moses brought from Mount Sinai, and the Oneness of God. It could have been a scene from any number of school Passover presentations, but these children were new immigrants to Israel from Ethiopia, demonstrating their Jewish knowledge for family members who, with them, are about to celebrate their first Passover in Israel. This Friday night, an estimated 5,500 members of the “Falash Mura,” the extended family members of Ethiopia’s Jewish community, will hold seders together in absorption centers throughout Israel, sponsored by The Jewish Agency and by the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. In groups, they will celebrate both Passover and their new lives in Israel, for the first time using a Hebrew Haggadah – and, in many cases, experiencing their very first seder. To prepare, this week, the olim (immigrants to Israel) held model seders in each absorption center, including in the Jerusalem suburb of Mevaseret Zion. With its apartment units stretching out for blocks – punctuated by playgrounds and communal buildings such as a library and auditorium – the Mevaseret Zion absorption complex is by far the largest of The Jewish Agency’s 22 such centers, including 16 that cater specifically to new olim from Ethiopia. Among the dignitaries who greeted the immigrants were Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, Founder and President of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews; Natan Sharansky, Chairman of the Executive of The Jewish Agency for Israel; Colonel Zion Shankur, the highest-ranking Ethiopian in the Israel Defense Forces; Ambassador Belaynesh Zevadia, Israel’s first Ethiopia-born ambassador; and prominent Ethiopian-Israeli singer-songwriter Maski Shabiro, who entertained the group of approximately 100 immigrants with a heartfelt rendition of an Ethiopian folksong. In fluent Hebrew accented heavily in Russian, Sharansky related his memories of making a seder while imprisoned in Siberia, using water instead of wine and bread instead of matzah (“because what can you do”), and reciting as much of the Haggadah as he could from memory. Later, after his release and his own immigration to Israel, he flew to Ethiopia to escort a group of Jews there on their own flight home. “I didn’t understand a word anyone said,” he remembered, “but when the pilot announced that we were over Jerusalem, everyone cried ‘Yerusalem! Yerusalem!’ and I realized I was part of a modern-day exodus, the
return of Jews from every direction – toward Jerusalem.” Rabbi Eckstein, whose organization is a major donor to programs that assist Ethiopian immigrants to Israel, earned enthusiastic applause from the participants by sometimes breaking from his Hebrew address to speak in Amharic, Ethiopia’s native language. Addressing the veteran Ethiopian olim in attendance, such as Colonel Shankur and Ambassador Zevadia, Eckstein said, “It’s not just that we are proud of you, you are also role models. You show the next generation of new immigrants that with hard work, they too can succeed. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t.” “Your job is to work hard,” he told the assembled Ethiopian-Israelis. “And our job is to accept and love you and help you all we can.” In 2010, when the Israeli government decided to permit the remaining 8,000 members of the extended Ethiopian Jewish community to immigrate, it turned to The Jewish Agency to help prepare the group – made up largely
of farmers – for their journey into the modern world. The next year, The Jewish Agency began administration of a complex in Gondar Ethiopia, where future emigres to Israel study Hebrew and learn about modern plumbing and how to shop in a supermarket. Now, living at absorption centers all over Israel, the adults study Hebrew and Judaism, while the children – after attending classes at regular local schools in the mornings – receive extra academic help in the afternoons through a Jewish Agency program called Yesodot (foundations). In their courses, the 5,500 recent immigrants have been studying the stories and symbols of the Passover holiday, and learning the Haggadah along with an Amharic translation. In Mevaseret Zion, many of the olim attended the model seder dressed entirely in white, the traditional Ethiopian attire for festive occasions. Colonel Shankur said that although it has been 30 years since he himself lived in an absorption center, the model seder “is still the most mean-
Natan Sharansky and Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein with Ethiopian immigrants (photo by Kobi Gideon / Flash90)
ingful seder I attend.” After briefly experiencing the highlights of a seder, the participants broke into dance, gesticulating their shoulders in a uniquely Ethiopian dance style. “In Ethiopia, they ate matzah all year round,” said Yehudah Sharf, Director of Aliyah and Absorption for The Jewish Agency. “Here, it is only on Passover that they eat the ‘lachma anya’ – bread of the poor – because they have so many more opportunities. For them, now, eating matzah truly makes it a night to ask ‘what is different tonight from all other nights.’”
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Federation Star May 2012
ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD
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A young Arab woman, Nissren Kader, 25, recently won first place in a popular Israeli music competition for the best performer of Mizrahi songs, the musical tradition of Middle Eastern Jews. By singing beautifully in Hebrew, she charmed her audience. “I am so proud: I’m the first Arab to win a Hebrew singing program,” said Kader, who is from Haifa. Moshe Alfassi, an Israeli of Moroccan descent, said he found it strange to see an Arab woman singing Mizrahi music, but like many other Israelis, was quickly won over by her voice. Her victory is part of a small but growing trend of Arab artists and entertainers rising to prominence. One of the country’s most popular sitcoms is a comedic satire about an Israeli-Arab journalist trying to fit into Jewish society whose attempts frequently backfire, written by Sayed Kashua, an Arab writer. All but one of Israel’s soccer league teams have Arab players, including the season’s top scorer, Ahmed Saba. (AP)
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During various talks in pursuit of peace between Israel and the Palestinians, negotiators have overlooked the uprooting of 850,000 Jews living in Arab nations, the loss of their assets and property, and the difficulties they underwent upon migrating to Israel and their absorption. A true solution to the issue of refugees will only be possible when the Arab League takes historic responsibility for its role in creating the Jewish and Palestinian refugee problems. Palestinian refugees should be rehabilitated in their place of residence just as the Jewish refugees were rehabilitated in Israel. (Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
ISRAEL’S NANOTECHNOLOGY FUTURE ON DISPLAY
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Israel has emerged as a world center of nanotechnology research, on display at NanoIsrael 2012, the third international conference on all things nano being held in Israel. Nava Swersky Sofer, who chaired the conference, says that among innovations developed recently in Israel using nanotechnology are a $10 DNA test, which squeezes molecules through a tiny channel in a body cell to take
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May 2012 ISRAEL & THE WORLD 21 Federation StarJEWISH
May 2012 Federation Star
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continued from previous page readings; a system using tiny bacteria to reduce pollutants in internal combustion engines to almost zero; and using nano-based ingredients to give food the taste and texture of a full measure of sugar and fat, while reducing calories to super-strict diet levels. (Times of Israel)
ISRAEL’S GOLDEN AGE Tiny Israel of 7.5 million people, comparable to the size of Rhode Island, is breaking ground in so many areas these days, and the world is finally starting to take notice. Whether it’s Israel’s 10th Nobel Prize; Israeli wines winning global awards; Apple opening its first-ever R&D center outside California; 162 other U.S. high-tech R&D centers in Israel; or the Technion together with Cornell winning an international bid to build a super science center in New York – this is the Israel that people may not know, but will, very soon. Start-Up Nation, the global bestseller about Israel’s high-tech miracle, has been translated into 16 languages, and tops business lists around the world, most intriguingly, in Asia. Experts on international economic affairs say Israel is actually forging a unique path, distinct from other highly developed countries, due to its extraordinary ability to innovate across so many fields. Southern California may well be facing severe water challenges in the years ahead, and water recycling is one solution that Israel can share with California, since Israel recycles far more water (over 80%) than any other nation in the world. (Tribe)
ISRAELI-BUILT ROBOTS SHOOT FOR U.S. COMPETITION Recently, several thousand spectators watched student-built robots square off for two days on a custom-sized basketball court in Tel Aviv. Dozens of high school teams built robots for a chance to represent Israel in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) World Championship, scheduled to be held in St. Louis from April 25-28. One standout at the competition was a bright pink robot developed by an all-girls team called “Ladies FIRST,” from Beersheba’s Ulpana Amit religious high school. (Los Angeles Jewish Journal)
IRON DOME VS. THE TERRORISTS In the recent clash, Israel’s Iron Dome missile-defense system performed far better than even optimists had expected. It’s also good news for the entire Western world. As in so many other areas of military hardware and tactics, the implementation of Israel’s Iron Dome missile system (which incorporates American technology and Israeli upgrades) in the Gazan theater is a pilot for technology that someday will protect all of us. Iron Dome is more than just a lifesaving weapon system. It is a technological metaphor for the Middle East
conflict as a whole. While Palestinian militants in Gaza waste what few resources they have on smuggled weaponry that kill citizens indiscriminately, the Israelis produce life-saving hightech refinements that one day will be protecting American military bases in the Gulf – and who knows what else besides – from attacks by Iran and its proxies. The Western world will profit from the technological fruits of Israel’s struggle for survival. (National Post-Canada)
BOYCOTT, WHAT BOYCOTT? UK-ISRAEL TRADE BOOMING Britain’s ambassador to Israel, Matthew Gould, said that bilateral UKIsrael trade has reached £3.75 billion, up 34% in a year. “There is a lot of noise around boycotts but these figures show that it is just noise, and the trade relationship speaks for itself,” Gould said. Israel is now the UK’s largest individual partner in the Near East and North Africa. (Jewish ChronicleUK)
ISRAELI-MADE PROCESSOR RESPONSIBLE FOR 40 PERCENT OF INTEL’S 2011 SALES The Intel Sandy Bridge processor, developed in Israel, was responsible for 40% of Intel’s sales worldwide in 2011. Intel has invested $3 billion in preparing its Kiryat Gat facility to manufacture the new 22-nanometer Ivy Bridge processor. Intel Israel had $2.2 billion in exports in 2011. (Times of Israel)
ISRAEL MUSEUM SHOWCASED IN GOOGLE ART PROJECT The Israel Museum has made 520 objects available for viewing in partnership with the Google Art Project, an online compilation of high-resolution images of artwork from galleries worldwide. The Israel Museum was among 151 museums in 40 countries taking part in the second wave of the project, which follows last year’s collaboration with Google to make the museum’s famed Dead Sea Scrolls accessible to all online. Google has also teamed up with Israel’s Holocaust memorial, Yad Vashem, to make its photographs and documents interactive and searchable on the Internet. (AP)
ISRAEL AND CHINA CELEBRATE 20 YEARS OF FRIENDSHIP As China and Israel mark 20 years of diplomatic relations, bilateral trade stands at almost $10 billion, a 200fold rise in two decades. China is Israel’s third-largest export market, buying everything from telecommunications and information technology to agricultural hardware, solar energy equipment, and pharmaceuticals.
At least 1,000 Israeli firms now operate in China, home to a massive $10 billion kosher food industry that sends much of its output to Israel. Last September, the Israeli government announced Chinese participation in a rail project that would allow overland cargo transport through Israel’s Negev desert, bypassing the Suez Canal. Hebrew-language and Jewish studies centers have sprung up in Chinese universities nationwide. Indeed, one of the more curious elements in the Israel-China alliance is the latter’s widespread fascination with Jews. Albert Einstein, Karl Marx and Sigmund Freud are iconic figures in the country, and in the 1950s the Chinese communist government issued a postage stamp bearing the visage of the Yiddish writer Sholom Aleichem. However, Chinese trade with Iran is valued at over $30 billion and is projected to reach $50 billion by 2015. (Oren Kessler in Foreign Policy)
WHY GOLDA MEIR WAS RIGHT Since last August the Syrian death toll has moved from 2,000 to over 8,000 – about five times more than the Palestinian casualties during Israel’s Gaza Operation in 2009. These distressing figures forcefully remind us of Prime Minister Erdogan’s famous dictums: 1. Muslims don’t kill, and
2. (Jews) know well how to kill. Simple Middle East research will give you 1 million deaths in the all-Muslim Iran-Iraq war; 300,000 Muslim minorities killed by Saddam Hussein; 80,000 Iranians killed during the Islamic revolution; 25,000 deaths from 1970 to 1971, the days of Black September, by the Jordanian government in its fight against the Palestinians; and 20,000 Islamists killed in 1982 by the elder al-Assad in Hama. The World Health Organization’s estimate of Osama bin Laden’s carnage in Iraq was already 150,000 a few years earlier. In a 2007 study, Gunnar Heinsohn from the University of Bremen, and Daniel Pipes, director of the Middle East Forum, found that some 11 million Muslims have been violently killed since 1948, of which 35,000 (0.3%) died during the six years of Arab war against Israel, or one out of every 315 fatalities. In contrast, over 90% who perished were killed by fellow Muslims. Time magazine quotes a onelegged revolutionary singer undergoing medical treatment in Turkey in the most recent wave of refugees, as saying: “We’d rather accept Israel than Bashar...The Israelis didn’t do to the Palestinians what Bashar has done to Syria.” Who, really, knows better how to kill? (Burak Bekdil in Hurriyet-Turkey)
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COMMENTARY
Federation Star May 2012
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Israel’s Arabs, living a paradox By Daniel Pipes, March 22, 2012
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an Arabs, who make up onefifth of Israel’s population, be loyal citizens of the Jewish
state? With this question in mind, I recently visited several Arab-inhabited regions of Israel (Jaffa, Baqa al-Gharbiya, Umm al-Fahm, Haifa, Acre, Nazareth, the Golan Heights, Jerusalem) and held discussions with mainstream Arab and Jewish Israelis. I found most Arabic-speaking citizens to be intensely conflicted about living in a Jewish polity. On the one hand, they resent Judaism as the country’s privileged religion, the Law of Return that permits only Jews to immigrate at will, Hebrew as the primary language of state, the Star of David in the flag, and mention of the “Jewish soul” in the anthem. On the other hand, they appreciate the country’s economic success, standard of health care, rule of law, and functioning democracy. These conflicts find many expressions. The small, uneducated and defeated Israeli Arab population of 1949 has grown ten-fold, acquired modern skills, and recovered its confidence. Some from this community have acquired positions of prestige and responsibility, including Supreme Court Justice Salim Joubran, former ambassador Ali Yahya, former government minister Raleb Majadele, and
journalist Khaled Abu Toameh. But these assimilated few pale beside the discontented masses who identify with Land Day, Nakba Day, and the Future Vision report. Revealingly, most Israeli Arab parliamentarians, such as Ahmed Tibi and Haneen Zuabi, are hotheads spewing rank anti-Zionism. Israeli Arabs have increasingly resorted to violence against their Jewish co-nationals. Indeed, Israeli Arabs live two paradoxes. Although they suffer discrimination within Israel, they enjoy more rights and greater stability than any Arab populace living in their own sovereign countries (think Egypt or Syria). Second, they hold citizenship in a country that their fellow Arabs malign and threaten with annihilation. My conversations in Israel led me to conclude that these complexities impede robust discussion, by Jews and Arabs alike, of the full implications of Israeli Arabs’ anomalous existence. Extremist parliamentarians and violent youth get dismissed as an unrepresentative fringe. Instead, one hears that if only Israeli Arabs received more respect and more municipal aid from the central government, current discontents would be eased; that one must distinguish between (the good) Arabs of Israel and (the bad) Arabs in the West Bank and Gaza; and a warning that Israeli Arabs will metastasize
into Palestinians unless Israel treats them better. My interlocutors generally brushed aside questions about Islam. It almost felt impolite to mention the Islamic imperative that Muslims (who make up 84 percent of the Israeli Arab population) rule themselves. Discussing the Islamic drive for application of Islamic law drew blank looks and a shift to more immediate topics. This avoidance reminded me of Turkey before 2002, when mainstream Turks assumed that Atatürk’s revolution was permanent and assumed Islamists would remain a fringe phenomenon. They were proved very wrong: a decade after Islamists democratically rode to power in late 2002, the elected government steadily applied more Islamic laws and built a neo-Ottoman regional power. I predict a similar evolution in Israel, as Israeli Arab paradoxes grow more acute. Muslim citizens of Israel will continue to grow in numbers, skills and confidence, becoming simultaneously more integral to the country’s life and more ambitious to throw off Jewish sovereignty. This suggests that as Israel overcomes external threats, Israeli Arabs will emerge as an ever-greater concern. Indeed, I predict they represent the ultimate obstacle to establishing the Jewish homeland anticipated by Theodor Herzl and Lord Balfour.
What can be done? Lebanon’s Christians lost power because they incorporated too many Muslims and became too small a proportion of the country’s population to rule it. Recalling this lesson, Israel’s identity and security require minimizing the number of Arab citizens – not by reducing their democratic rights, much less by deporting them, but by such steps as adjusting Israel’s borders, building fences along the frontiers, implementing stringent family reunification policies, changing pro-natalist policies, and carefully scrutinizing refugee applications. Ironically, the greatest impediment to these actions will be that most Israeli Arabs emphatically wish to remain disloyal citizens of the Jewish state (as opposed to loyal citizens of a Palestinian state). Further, many other Middle Eastern Muslims aspire to become Israelis (a phenomenon I call Muslim aliyah). These preferences, I predict, will stymie the government of Israel, which will not develop adequate responses, thereby turning today’s relative quiet into tomorrow’s crisis. Mr. Pipes (DanielPipes.org) is president of the Middle East Forum and Taube distinguished visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution of Stanford University. © 2012 by Daniel Pipes. All rights reserved.
We Jews are a peaceful people, aren’t we? By Herbert Herman
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oremost among the distinctive features of Judaism is the supremacy it assigns to peace. From the words of the prophets to the Declaration of Israel Statehood, peace is the supreme end. It is no mark of irreverence to respond to the mandate: May he who causes peace to reign in the heavens, let peace descend on us, on all Israel and all the world. The purpose of this article is to present the case for pursuing a peaceful resolution of the conflict between Israel and Iran, and an understanding of why Israel should not be a party to any bombing of Iran. Since 1979 the United States has imposed sanctions on Iran through executive orders, by Congressional action, targeting specifically the oil industry of Iran. The Reagan administration placed sanctions on oil imports from Iran to the U.S. The Clinton Administration imposed a total embargo on Iran, which purpose was to discourage worldwide investment in the Iranian oil industry. In 2001 Bush continued the Clinton policy. Beginning in 2005 the United States pushed for UN sanctions against Iran with the justification of stopping Iran from continuing its nuclear program. The charge was that Iran was pursuing a nuclear weapons capability. In 2006 the UN Security Council passed several resolutions imposing sanctions to halt Iran’s suspected nuclear armament production. The
threat of military action against Iran was made very clear. The UN sanctions on Iran target Iran’s nuclear industry with a long list of banned items. The United States has imposed its own variety of sanctions that target Iran’s petroleum sector. Iran generates the largest portion of its earnings from crude oil sales. The United States has convinced the international community to apply sanctions on Iran because of its nuclear program. But the United States has ignored the nuclear weapons program of India and Pakistan. These two countries, like Israel, have never signed on to the Non-Proliferation Treaty. The accommodation of Pakistan’s military needs continues because of the importance of the U.S. military occupation of Afghanistan. Since 1968 Iran has been a signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty, which specifies that signatories have the right to develop nuclear energy as long as it is used for peaceful purposes. How do you think this is viewed by countries in the region when Israel, the one country in the region with nuclear weapons, has never signed the treaty? There have been limited inspections of Israel’s nuclear facilities, all conducted by the United States. Is Israel exempt from concerns of nuclear proliferation? With constant accusations that Iran is moving ahead toward a nuclear weapon capability, are people across the world to look the other way
when it comes to Israel’s arsenal estimated to be between two hundred to four hundred nuclear weapons? The U.S.-Israeli alliance is unique in world affairs. Since 1970 U.S. aid to Israel has quadrupled. Israel extends its services to U.S. power outside the Middle East, particularly in Latin America and southern Africa. High-tech military industry projects have lucrative ties with Israel, as do the major financial institutions. Israel serves virtually as an offshore military base and provider of equipment and training. When there are conflicts between Israeli and U.S. state power, Israel naturally backs down. Any decisions to bomb Iran will follow the orders of the United States. As a matter of fact, it may be too late for any Israeli government to end these arrangements. Israel must not allow itself to become the spear carrier for the world’s hegemonic power. Israel must assure the world and Iranians that it does not pose a threat to that country because of its nuclear program. Immediately, Israel should sign the Non-Proliferation Treaty and cooperate with any international agencies reducing the threat of nuclear war. Now is the time to examine the idea of a Nuclear-WeaponsFree Zone. Currently there are five Nuclear-Free Zones nations-based regimes in place in the world with over one hundred signatories to these treaties in total, involving sixty per-
cent of the world’s nation states. I believe we will be surprised by the desire and willingness of the Iranians to negotiate for peace. There are ways to mitigate and end the crisis. The first is for Israel to call off the threats to bomb Iran which compel them to develop nuclear weapons. Iran sees itself as a potential target, and nuclear weapons become their only viable option. The second would be for Israel to participate in joint efforts to reintegrate Iran into trade, commerce and the global economy. Israel and Iran have had a history of trade and commerce. A third step would be for Israel to offer Iran a verifiable nuclear treaty. This proposal reaches the level of human survival. Finally, Israel should act in good faith to live up to the Non-Proliferation Treaty to eliminate nuclear weapons, offering a binding legal obligation under the World Court. We Jews are a peaceful people, a courageous people, good negotiators, and experienced enough in history to know where and with whom we can put our trust. Failure to do so is almost certain to lead to grim consequences and even the end of the great Zionist experience. War is not the answer. Herbert Herman is a longtime Naples resident whose commentary has appeared in the Federation Star several times over the years.
COMMENTARY 23 Federation Star May 2012
May 2012 Federation Star
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America, Israel and Iran Rabbi Sylvin L. Wolf
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merica, Israel and Iran. There has been much concern and discussion about what to do. There are those who promote military action. Rabbi Marshall Klaven, a former USAF Chaplain, wrote a message which gives us thoughtful pause. I share excerpts with you. He writes: After numerous rounds of respectful but tempered applause, typical of most conferences, I heard a speaker articulate convincingly the reasons for a preemptive strike against Iran. At that point, in the general session, the applause reached a feverish pitch. An overwhelming majority of
attendees stood in a rousing ovation. I could not. My body was hunched over in pain, as my heart broke. It’s not that I don’t understand war or its occasional necessity. As a Jew and as a former USAF Chaplain, I understand all too well that – at times – we must physically confront evil to ensure good survives. But, what caused so much pain for me at that moment was the pure, unadulterated, joy expressed by others, who hoped and even prayed for war... I can tell you, at moments like those, a standing ovation is far from the typical response one would hear even from the most ardent military members. With an intimate knowledge about the steep costs of war for themselves, for their families, and for the communities in which these battles are waged, most service members – upon receiving their orders – sit in silence, becoming resigned to getting the job done, becoming resolved
to getting back home as quickly as possible... Yet our history has taught us the benefits of standing up for our beliefs, even by physical force... Even in our losses, we have come to understand that doing something is better than doing nothing. For not fighting back, when necessary, leads only to greater devastation as we tragically experienced in the Holocaust... In fact, when lives are unfortunately taken to ensure God’s values of freedom and justice for all, people are not the only ones affected (as we see much too often with our fighting men and women experiencing PTSD). The taking of life, even when justified, aggravates God as well. We see this in our Exodus from Egypt. Upon arriving on freedom’s shore, God closes the Sea of Reeds around Pharaoh and his army. In our joy, our ancestors erupted in song: “Mi chamocha ba-eilim Adonai... / Who is like You,
Adonai...” Yet, God did not sing along. Instead, directing our attentions back to the sea, God silenced us, saying: “Why do you sing? Can you not see that they are my children too?” These, my friends, are some of the high costs of war. And, as such, it is painfully inappropriate to God and to our fellow men and women in uniform (to whom we owe so much) to approach the notion of going to battle so cavalierly: pursuing the fight, applauding the potential taking of human life. May we be more tempered than that. May we be both more humane and more divine-like than that. May we, in contemplating future physical confrontations, weigh these costs thoughtfully. For, in doing so, we pray that our sacrifices, carried most heavily on the backs of our fighting men and women, will continue to be counted as a blessing in God’s holy service. Kein y’hi ratzon, may this be God’s will as well as our own.
Bamidbar - The Book of Numbers Rabbi Edward M. Maline, D.D.
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amidbar means “In the Wilderness” and it discusses the wilderness period in Jewish history – that 40-year period when the ancient Hebrews journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land. Numbers (the English translation) has to do with the opening chapter of the Book which focuses on the taking of the census – the numbering of the Hebrews – particularly the males 20 years and older who were eligible to defend the people against potential adversaries during that perilous journey. The main focus of Bamidbar – the 40-year journey of the Israelites – details the frustrations and the disillusionment of the people who were weary from a journey whose final destination they did not know. They missed the creature comforts they enjoyed even as slaves in Egypt, and complained of hunger and thirst to their leader Moses. Many controversies erupted during that period including rebellions against the leadership of Moses. From this Book our rabbis taught us
that there are two kinds of controversies – those “for the sake of heaven” motivated by ideological considerations or moral issues and those “not for the sake of heaven” motivated by jealousy, personal ambition or selfaggrandizement. In our society today we have many controversies that can be labeled “for the sake of heaven” motivated by ideology and they don’t seem to go away: abortion, gay marriage, prayer in public school and other churchstate related issues, the teaching of evolution and/or creationism, inter alia.They are motivated by strong ideological and philosophical positions on both sides. In Jewish life we have our share of controversies as well. The greatest controversy that still rages in our midst after hundreds of years is the antagonism toward Reform Judaism by Orthodoxy – an antagonism that had its origin in the Festival of Shavuot we are about to celebrate – and the question of Divine Revelation: How did the Torah come to us? By God or a product of human transmission? We have had controversial rabbis as well; rabbis who articulated outspokenly what they believed and the truth as they saw it. There was Stephen Wise, who created the Free Synagogue, signaling the freedom of the pulpit; David Einhorn, who fled
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Baltimore because of his opposition to slavery; Jacob Rothchild, whose synagogue, “The Temple” in Atlanta, was bombed because he spoke out against the KKK. A great Chasidic master, Rabbi Israel Salanter, once said that any rabbi whose congregation does not try to oust him at least once because of controversies he ignited was no rabbi. That is the essential message of Bamidbar, I believe. Never fear controversy if it is properly motivated. Such arguments need to and will
endure because they deal with the quest for truth and do not reflect our personal desires to be controversial or argumentative for personal reasons. It is unfortunate that The Book of Numbers is read during the summer when fewer of our people are in attendance because this book teaches one of the essential messages of our faith and why it is noble to be a controversial people when it is for the sake of heaven.
Letter to the Editor As in past years, it is my pleasure to compliment the Naples Jewish Congregation on the beautiful congregational/community seder that it held at the Wyndemere Country Club on the First Night of Passover, Friday, April 6,. For several years, the Naples Jewish Congregation (NJC) has opened its congregational seder to the broader Naples Jewish community, who might not otherwise have access to this lovely spiritual event. Under the leadership of Rabbi Sylvin Wolf and Cantorial Soloist Jane Geller, and with the participation of numerous readers from NJC, the service came alive with a feeling of historical meaning. Compliments are due Marcy Berenson for chairing and organiz-
ing this event, as she has done for several years. We owe her and those who assist her a debt of gratitude for undertaking this task each year so that her congregation and the wider community can share in this annual reminder of the importance of what it means to live in freedom. Compliments also are due the Wyndemere Country Club, its Board, management, head chef, kitchen and dining room staff for making us feel so welcome in their beautiful facility. Year after year, the Wyndemere family has welcomed the NJC family and its guests. Thank you. Let us hope for a year of peace and freedom here and abroad. – Bill Kaye, Naples
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24
SYNAGOGUES
Federation Star May 2012 Chabad Jewish Center OF NAPLES
www.chabadnaples.com / 239-262-4474
Chabad Jewish Center of Naples update By Ettie Zaklos
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havuot blintz buffet and ice cream party: Join us Sunday, May 27 at 5:00 p.m. for the opportunity to once again hear the Ten Commandments and accept our beautiful gift from G-d. Following the reading, there will be a blintz buffet and family ice-cream party. RSVP online at www.chabadnaples.com or call 239.263.2620. Camp Gan Israel: Camp registration is in full swing! Now in its 8th successful year, Camp Gan is gearing up for the most exciting summer yet! Our camp, located in the heart of Naples, enjoys a well deserved reputation as a trendsetter with creative programming. Campers participate in a wide range of exciting activities and field trips in a warm, upbeat environment. Camp runs June 25 - July 20 for children ages 6-13. Registration is available on a week-by-week basis. Call 239.263.2620 for more information or to register. We are also excited to announce Summer of the Arts, our summer program for children ages 2-5! Summer of the Arts runs June 11 - July 20.
Chabad Naples Annual Partner Project: As we continue the year in our beautiful new building, we ask that you consider partnering with us to bring the joy of Judaism – including successful social and humanitarian programs – to many more people throughout Collier County. The Chabad Naples Annual Partner Project is a way to demonstrate your commitment to the Chabad Jewish Community Center with an annual contribution. This project has grown rapidly since we launched it in August. Many Partner opportunities are still available and we will gratefully acknowledge all our Partners and Premier Partners for their dedication to the Naples Jewish community. For more information or to receive your partnership package, please call 239.262.4474, email rabbi@ chabadnaples.com or visit www. chabadnaples.com. Lunch and Learn: Rebbetzin Ettie Zaklos is leading a lunchtime program dedicated to inspiring and empowering Jewish women through cultural learning experiences. In this
BETH TIKVAH
course we uncover the soul, spirit and mystical dynamism of being a woman, discovering a pragmatic approach to implement these feminine strengths in practice. Guided by classical Jewish and Kabbalistic texts, we examine issues such as beauty, love, relationships, career, family, education and spirituality – tying together the various facets of womanhood in synchronized harmony. The group will meet Wednesday, May 30 at the Chabad Naples Jewish Community Center. Learning begins at 11:00 a.m. followed by a delicious lunch. All women of the community, regardless of affiliation, are welcome. If you would like more information or to RSVP, call Ettie Zaklos at 239.207.7645 or e-mail chabadnaples@gmail.com. Regular Shabbat services: Our warm and welcoming Shabbat services are held each and every Saturday morning beginning at 10:00 a.m. The Torah service begins at 11:00 a.m. and includes the Rabbi’s insights during the Torah reading, which always has a contemporary, meaningful and rel-
evant message. Services are followed by a delicious Kiddush buffet lunch. Weekly email & mailing list: If you would like to be added to our weekly updates or mailing list, contact the Center at 239.262.4474 or rabbi@ chabadnaples.com. Flying Challah: Each week, the Chabad Jewish Center of Naples randomly and lovingly distributes freshly baked challah to individuals, couples and families in our community. If you would like to suggest someone to receive a “Flying Challah,” please call Ettie at 239.263.2620 or email chabadnaples@gmail.com. Among the programs offered at the Center are: Preschool of the Arts, Hebrew schools, teen and youth programs, Flying Challah, holiday outreach projects and adult education classes. On the social services front, the Center offers crisis counseling and hospital visitations, and operates the nonsectarian Friendship Circle, providing special assistance and programming for children with special needs. For more information, please call 239.262.4474.
www.bethtikvahnaples.org / 239-434-1818
Beth Tikvah update Stuart Kaye Beth Tikvah President
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abbi Ammos Chorny, who has served as spiritual leader for several congregations in North and South America, will become the spiritual leader of Beth Tikvah on July 1. A native of Bogotá, Colombia, Rabbi Chorny’s educational path took him to New York, where he attended a joint program of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America and Columbia University. In the span of three years, he completed his undergraduate degrees, receiving a B.A. in Comparative Religion and Psychology from Columbia, and one in Talmud and Rabbinics from JTSA. He followed this with a year of graduate study at the Hebrew University and the Schechter Institute in Israel. Rabbi Chorny received an M.H.L. from JTSA in 1985 and his ordination in 1987. He is also a certified Mohel (Brit Kodesh Program, JTSA, 1989). Rabbi Chorny’s language proficiencies include not only English and Hebrew, but also Spanish, German and Yiddish. Both before and after his ordination, Ammos Chorny was a chaplain in the U.S. Army. He completed Ba-
sic and Advanced Chaplain Training courses and then served as installation chaplain at Fort Dix, New Jersey, responsible for the welfare of training cadre and soldiers as well as the Jewish Chapel program. While in the D.C. area, he served as assistant hospital chaplain at Walter Reed Army Hospital, battalion chaplain for the 220 MASH unit in Rockville, Maryland, and staff assistant for the Command Chaplain at First Army, Ft. Meade, Maryland. In 1989 he received special orders to attend the Instructor’s Course at the JFK Special Warfare Center and
Rabbi Ammos and Aviva Chorny
School at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, where he served as religion and world cultures instructor for the Army’s “Q Course,” a requirement for all special forces personnel. In the fall of 1991, he was called to active duty, and deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm/Desert Shield to Daharan, Saudi Arabia. Captain Chorny was honorably discharged in May 2001. Rabbi Chorny’s rabbinical expe-
rience began in Rockville, Maryland as assistant rabbi at B’nai Israel Congregation. He then went on to lead congregations in Greensboro, North Carolina; Bogotá, Colombia; Altoona, Bill & Chris Barnett with Beth Tikvah president Stuart Kaye at Pennsylvania; Beth Tikvah’s Community Leadership Award event (March 4), and London, Onwhere Bill was honored (photo credit Mike Schleider) tario. In addition to his pulpit responsibilities, he taught Park on Thursday, May 10 from 4:30 numerous courses at Pennsylvania p.m. until sundown. Call for informaState University and the University tion. of Western Ontario in Canada. Shavuot Rabbi Chorny is driven by a proShavuot services begin on Saturday, fessional commitment to serve Am May 26 at 8:00 p.m. and continue on Yisrael as a model, guide and partner the 27th and 28th at 9:30 a.m. Yiskor is in the spiritual journey that is a life included in the May 28 service. rooted in Mitzvot and Torah. In the Religious services schedule words of Franz Rosensweig, he has Friday services begin at 7:30 p.m.; made it his life’s mandate to extend Saturday services begin at 9:30 a.m. a hand to all who are – or wish to be and conclude with a Kiddush lun– engaged in our people’s ongoing cheon. Sunday morning minyan runs spiritual journey. Rabbi Chorny will from December through March at 9:00 be active in all aspects of synagogue a.m. We regularly convene Yahrzeit life. minyanim upon request. Please join us He and his wife, Aviva, have three at any service. Our participatory worgrown children (a lawyer, a rabbinical ship services and most other events student at JTSA, and an actress), and are held at 1459 Pine Ridge Road just have just celebrated the birth of their west of Mission Square Plaza. For first grandchild. more information, call 239.434.1818, Lag B’Omer email bethtikvahnaples@aol.com or We will hold a kosher Lag B’Omer visit www.bethtikvahnaples.org. picnic at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State
ORGANIZATIONS 25 Federation Star May 2012
May 2012 Federation Star
25
www.jwi.org / 239-498-2778
JEWISH WOMEN INTERNATIONAL
JWI & Temple Shalom join in bringing comfort to thousands of at-risk women on Mother’s Day Millie Sernovitz JWI Past International President
T
his year, as every year, Temple Shalom has joined Jewish Women International (JWI) in once again honoring the 45,000 women and children spending Mother’s Day in battered women’s shelters through JWI’s Mother’s Day Flower Project. For these women, urgent concerns like housing, safety and employment make the holiday just another day to survive. The Flower Project offers donors a way to honor the special women in their lives, while making a difference in the lives of thousands of at-risk women. JWI’s Mother’s Day Flower Project delivers hope – both in flower bouquets and OPI beauty products – to
200 shelters across the United States on this special day. Over 70 synagogues, including Temple Shalom of Naples, and other organizations have signed on to help raise awareness and funds for this important cause. For each $25 contribution, JWI will send a Mother’s Day card to any woman the donor chooses, thanking her for the inspiration to help women in need. The funds we raise also sustain JWI programs that work every day to educate communities and empower women to help break the cycle of domestic violence. Here is how it works: ¡¡ You choose an amazing woman in your life – mother, grandmother, sister, wife, daughter, aunt, special friend – to receive a Mother’s Day card ¡¡ You make a meaningful $25 donation to JWI in honor of this special person ¡¡ JWI sends a beautiful card to your designated recipient stating that a
charitable contribution has been made in her honor ¡¡ JWI sends bouquets of beautiful flowers and beauty products to domestic violence shelters The project is an opportunity for JWI to raise awareness about domestic abuse while delivering compassion
and support to women forced to live in domestic violence shelters. OPI Products, Inc. is joining JWI this year in delivering bouquets and beauty products to the shelters. This year’s card features original artwork generously created for the 2012
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN
Flower Project by artist, author and illustrator Connie G. Krupin. Contributions to JWI’s Mother’s Day Flower Project can be made by going online at www.jwi.org/fp or by calling 800.343.2823. You can also pick up a form from Temple Shalom to donate to the Flower Project. Jewish Women International (JWI) is the leading Jewish organization empowering women and girls through economic literacy, community training, healthy relationships education, and the proliferation of women’s leadership. To learn more about the JWI’s Mother’s Day Flower Project or other JWI endeavors locally and nationally, please contact Millie Sernovitz at 239.498.2778 or millie@sernovitz. com. Also, please visit the JWI website at www.jwi.org or its companion website for Jewish Woman magazine at www.jwmag.org.
239-353-5963 / 239-354-9117
Thank you, thank you, thank you! By Linda Wainick, co-President
O
nce again, at the conclusion of another successful season, I have the opportunity to thank our wonderful volunteers who “make it all happen.” Highlights were the Visions Luncheon, our Fundraiser at Broadway Palm, our visit to the Shelter, our trip to Lipman/6Ls Farm and RCMA Child Care facility, and our wonderful Fashion Show. Thanks to our speakers at our programs: Ingrit Ruiz from the Shelter; Judi Palay, David B. Goldstein and Donna C. Kordek, who spoke about the Foster Care System and the Guardian Ad Litem Program; Yochi Melnick , who talked about Israel from a Woman’s Perspective; Howard Isaacson’s presentation was Preparing for Significant Life Events; Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, Jewish Family and Community Services; and Gloria Padilla of RCMA. To our volunteers, thank you for your commitment, dedication and hard work. Our Board of Directors: Vice Presidents: Advocacy - Phyllis Lazear, Community Service - Doris Feuer, Fundraising - Carol Emerson, Membership - Beverly Esau, Louise Haiman. Secretaries: Corresponding Carolyn Greenberg, Financial - Judy Kaufman, Recording - Carol Klein, Treasurer - Ellen Gurnitz, Trustees Fran Nossen, Betty Schwartz, Pearl Thall, Helen Weinfeld, Past President - Sandra Wolf.
Advocacy is chaired by Phyllis Lazear. Reservations for our meetings are taken by Muriel Hurwich and Marlene Oshry. Publicity is written by Maraline Rane. Courtwatch in conjunction with the Women’s Shelter is chaired by Carol Klein. Her volunteers are Carolyn and Bill Greenberg, Hedy Weinberger, Gale Lazarus, Edith Winters, Muriel Hurwich, Moine Zeilinger, Millie Sernovitz, Lil Silverberg, Donna Goldblatt, Ellen Gurnitz, Sandy Gershman, Kathy Feinstein, Leda Zbar, Betty Schwartz, Pat Levy, Marilyn Dano, Toby Kosloff and Beverly Brower. Knitting is chaired by Gayle Dorio. Her volunteers are Judy Kaufman, Carol Klein, Iris Abel, Parker Grossman, Marlene Apkon, Fran Nossen, Rose Piccinini, Jean Schwerfeger, Terry Wachalter and Ellen Gurnitz. The Fashion Show was chaired by Carol Emerson, Doris Feuer and Bobbie Katz. Models were Carol Alderman, Sue Carbo, Gayle Dorio, Marcelle Reiss, June Rivkin and Hedy Weinberger. Raffle tickets were sold by Barbara Gootkin and Carolyn Greenberg. The NCJW Directory is chaired by Bobbie Katz, with assistance from Elissa Goldstein, Judy Kaufman and Fran Nossen. Parkside School volunteers are Judy Kaufman and Muriel Hurwich. The Bulletin is edited by Carolyn Greenberg and proofreaders are Bill Greenberg, Bobbie Katz, Carol Klein, Lois Rosenberg, Betty Schwartz, Linda Wainick and
Sandy Wolf. Life Member chair is Pearl Thall, RCMA chair is Myra Shapiro, Retention chair is Marilyn Goldenberg. Betty Schwartz chairs Israel Affairs, Doris Feuer sends Tribute Cards, Maraline Rane brings our Yad v’Yad cans to each meeting. Our Broadway Palm fundraiser was chaired by Doris Feuer and Bobbie Katz. The Visions Luncheon was chaired by Carol Emerson. The very able kitchen crew was Evelyn Cole, Judy Kaufman, Helen Weinfeld and Sandy Stone Woog. Assisting with the meal were Marilyn Dano, Gayle Dorio, Carolyn Greenberg, Muriel Hurwich, Bobbie Katz, Dottie Magen, Marcelle Reiss, Pearl Thall, Lil Silverberg, Linda Wainick and Moine Zeilinger. Once again, Sid Kleiner entertained our guests. Computer Czarina is Fran Nossen. Board Liaison is Joan Person. Friendly Visitors chaired by Bobbie Katz visits close to 100 Jew-
ish elderly at Chanukah and Passover. Volunteers are Beverly Brower, Marilyn Dano, Kathy Feinstein, Sandy Gershman, Donna Goldblatt, Carolyn and Bill Greenberg, Ellen Gurnitz, Muriel Hurwich, Toby Kosloff, Gale Lazarus, Pat Levy, Betty Schwartz, Millie Sernovitz, Lil Silverberg, Linda Wainick, Hedy Weinberger, Edythe Winters, Leda Zbar and Moine Zeilinger. Holiday Programs are chaired by Linda Wainick with assistance from Bobbie Katz and Ellen Gurnitz. The Nominating Committee was chaired by Sandy Wolf. Committee members were Marilyn Dano, Gayle Dorio, Carol Emerson, Joan Weinstein and Edythe Winters. And a special thank you to Bobbie Katz, my co-president, for her guidance, assistance and support. I hope I have not left out any names. If I have, please contact me. To all of our volunteers, THANK YOU for your continued support.
Are you looking for delicious kosher food? Chabad of Naples has partnered with the well-known Aroma Kosher Market and Catering of Cooper City, Florida, to bring kosher food to you. Please call the Chabad office at 239.262.4474 for an order form and instructions. Aroma Market delivers orders to the Chabad of Naples, 1789 Mandarin Road, once a week.
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ORGANIZATIONS
Federation Star May 2012 ORT AMERICA – GULF BEACHES CHAPTER
www.ort.org / 239-649-4000
Marina Berkovich: Soviet loss is Gulf Beaches gain By Helene D. Fuchs
M
arina Berkovich immigrated to the United States in 1980. But if not for a U.S. trade law aimed at pressuring the Soviet Union to allow Jewish emigration, Marina might still be in Kiev. The Jackson-Vanik amendment denied most-favored-nation status to non-market (read: Communist) countries that restricted immigration. When Marina and her mother, an electrical engineer, applied for exit visas in 1979, their timing could not have been more propitious. The Soviets had been suffering a severe grain shortage for three years. “A grain embargo was in effect,” she said. “But somehow the ‘exiting Jews’ were brokered into a deal for Argentine grain that led to our exit-visa approvals.” Marina jokingly figures she was worth about 3 ½ bushels of wheat to the Soviets. Gulf Beaches ORT members recognized three years ago that the Soviets had made a big mistake. They asked her to be on the chapter’s board. And on April 17 at a luncheon and installation of officers at Bucca di Beppo restaurant, Marina was elected president. Her “day job” since 1997 has been with ABG World, a Naplesbased video and audio production company founded by her husband, Alexander Goldstein. She runs the business end and also conducts interviews and contributes creatively in ways that draw on her exceptional mix of organizational skills, creative
others who have been enchanted one in Russian and two in English. talent and language expertise. In adby Naples, the couple visited one Marina soon landed a teaching dition to English, she speaks seven weekend in 2004, “fell in love” position at ORT Bramson, and she beSlavic languages. with the city, and moved here a year came dean of administrative services A former teacher and dean at later. In just six and a half years they when that position was created. Bramson ORT College in New York, have made 21 oral histories and one But after she met Alex, a 1991 the new Gulf Beaches president hopes documentary for the Naples Historical émigré from Mosto raise the chapter’s cow, in the summer profile as she emphaSociety that won the 2011 Telly Award of 1997, her life and sizes ORT’s purpose: and the 2010 Platinum AVA (Audiocareer turned in a new teaching skills to last a Visual Excellence) Award. Last year direction. Alex had lifetime. they produced a documentary for the recently opened his “ORT America is Naples Alliance for Children and the own business transthe only organization original song Because Someone Belating and dubbing in the U.S. supporting lieved in Me. films for flights benon-sectarian education Marina is justifiably proud of tween New York and worldwide under the ABG World’s accomplishments, and Moscow on Aeroflot auspices of Jewish volgrateful, too, for the opportunities Airlines. Marina, with unteers,” Marina said. afforded her and Alex in this country. her knowledge of “ORT’s schools and proIn her “spare” time, she gives back to Marina Berkovich American pop culture, grams in 63 countries the community by serving on various helped him in this endeavor; one of educate 300,000 students annually.” boards and committees that advance the films she translated was the Jack When Marina came here at age her favorite passion: education. LuckNicholson-Diane Keaton film As 18 she spoke very little English. But ily for Gulf Beaches, ORT happens to Good As It Gets. she learned quickly, and graduated be at the top of that list. “Alex needed from Queens College with a B.A. in me for the business accounting and information systems. Gulf Beaches Board 2012 end after he went Her first job out of school was with President: Marina Berkovich into commercials, Laventhol & Horwath, then the ninth Treasurer: Hella Amelkin TV and documenlargest accounting firm in the world. Financial Secretary and Adviser: Jill Goode taries,” Marina Ten years in real estate management Publicity Chair: Helene Fuchs said, but her cre- Contributions and ORT Shabbat Chair: Midge Rauch followed, but Marina left to spend ative streak soon more time with her daughter, Natalie Tributes: Lloyd Rauch came into play as Rae, now 25 and living in Rhode Outreach Chair: Dottie Magen she began helping Island, and to pursue her interest in Programming Chair: Arlene Oppenheim to write scripts and writing. Events Chair: Sandee Weseley produce documenShe has published a book of poPortfolio Coordinator: Marebe Crouse taries while Alex Corresponding and Community Chair: Simonne Kott etry in Russian, One-Way Correspondirected. dence (Liberty Press, New York), and Education Chair: Harriet Hirsch Like so many is currently working on three books,
HUMANISTIC JEWISH HAVURAH
www.humanisticjewishhavurahswfl.org / 239-495-8197
Reason Paula Creed President
L
ast month, I attended the “Reason Rally” that took place on the Mall in Washington, D.C. The purpose of this event was to emphasize the importance of secular values on the American political scene. The event had three main goals: XX To encourage attendees (and those who couldn’t attend) to come “out of the closet” as secular Americans, or supporters of secular equality XX To dispel stereotypes (“There is no one ‘True Atheist.’”) The intent was to show that there are secular Americans in every major demographic. XX Legislative equality. Secular Americans should be encouraged to run for public office and adequately represent non-theists,
just as theists in office represent their constituents. My experience convinced me it is important to unite individuals with similar beliefs and to show the American public that the number of people who define themselves as atheist, agnostic or nonreligious is large and growing. The fact that the Society for Humanistic Judaism, the central body for the Humanistic Jewish movement in North America, of which the Humanistic Jewish Havurah of Southwest Florida is an affiliate, was one of the sponsors of this event had no small part in attracting me to participate in this seminal event for secular humanists in America. For Humanistic Jews, reason is the best method for the discovery of truth. Alternative methods are faith and intuition. Faith is trust in ancestral wisdom. Intuition is a powerful and compelling feeling that a statement is true. While Humanistic Jews acknowledge that many ancestral teachings are true, they recognize that these teachings are not true merely because they are ancestral. And, while intu-
ition may, on occasion, lead to truth, it even more frequently leads to error and illusion. Reason is not logic. Conventional logic is a deductive system of thinking that moves from premises to conclusions, using the conventional meaning of words to guide its procedure. But logic cannot guarantee truth. If the premises are true, then the conclusion is true. But if the premises are false the conclusion is false. Logic is willing to cooperate with both reality and fantasy. Reason is responsibility to facts, events in the universe, events in space-time. The method of reason – the scientific method – starts with the observation of facts. It continues with a hypothesis, a proposed interpretation or explanation of the observed facts, then moves on to a plan of verification (looking for evidence) and ends with conclusion. The hypothesis is tentatively accepted as true if verifying facts are found, false if controverting facts are found, and unproven if insufficient evidence emerges. Reason requires a special discipline. When sufficient facts are avail-
able, strong convictions are possible. When facts are meager or unavailable, uncertainty follows. Reasonable people often say “I don’t know.” “I don’t know” is a modest, humble and appropriate response to the limitations of the human discovery system. But reason is cautious. It needs to be wary of the vested interest of emotions. While reason needs emotion as the motivation for being reasonable, as the driving force for trying to find out the truth in the first place, it does not need emotion to tell it what the truth is. These emotions need to be controlled, since they often conflict with each other. Reason, by appealing to the observed consequences of behavior, helps to create a proper balance among the emotions. Rational people are emotional people, but they are also balanced people. They never become hostage to any single emotion. Humanistic Judaism embraces rationality as the best way not only of approaching truth but of managing life. The use of reason, a distinctly human capacity, enables human beings to be most fully human.
ORGANIZATIONS 27 Federation Star May 2012
May 2012 Federation Star
COLLIER/LEE CHAPTER OF HADASSAH
27
www.hadassah.org / 239-676-3052
Hadassah update Shelley Skelton President
T
hat’s it! A hush fell over the room as our installing officer announced that the new Executive Board of Directors was now officially installed! Some of us were Winds, some were Dragons, some were Flowers, some even Jokers – you get the idea. The theme of this installation was Mah Jongg, and what a “Card” it turned out to be! As the incoming President of the Chapter, I was a bit mystified, not knowing what to expect next, but our illustrious installing officer and ever-loving chapter member, Gayle Dorio, held everyone’s rapt attention as she marked the occasion with humor, respect, dignity and emotional prowess.
For those who are unfamiliar with the terms mentioned above, they are associated with a popular game called Mah Jongg. But the underlying context of comparing the new board members with pieces from a game was much more meaningful than “just a game.” It was a means to get people together, to experience the joys of friendship and, ultimately, to extend our love and support, not only to Hadassah in Israel, but for projects around the world and in hundreds of communities throughout the United States. As the title “President” was bestowed upon me, I couldn’t help but reflect upon how I had gotten to this point. I was born and raised in Philadelphia, moved to Michigan after having married and lived in Missouri for a short few years, had two children and four grandchildren before relocating with my husband, Ben, and two dogs, to sunny Southwest Florida. While in Michigan, I was a Realtor for many years, and then for a change of pace,
naples jewiSh Social Club
decided to use my innate creativity to design kitchens and baths for a wellknown custom cabinet company. I was also an active member of B’nai B’rith Women, long before the name was changed to Jewish Women International, and served as Fundraising Vice President for many years. In my spare time, I became a self-taught artist, and have been painting in the form of abstract expressionism for the past 12 years. As I began my new life in Florida, I found myself being invited to a new and prospective member brunch at the home of then Chapter President Iris Shur. The next thing I knew, I was writing a check to become an annual member, was pronounced the chair of Jewelry Sales for jewelry made by the children of Neurem in Israel, and subsequently became our chapter’s Vice President of Fundraising. Not too long after joining the Chapter, I became a Life Member and my husband became an Associate. I have also chaired several committees, including
Keepers of the Gate, the Nominating Committee and Perpetual Yahrzeit, and was the Bulletin Editor before becoming President. As the new President, I have been told that I should share a little of my background and so here it is. And why am I so attracted to and involved with Hadassah? I am so proud and happy to be a part of this magnificent organization, which enhances the quality of American and Jewish life through its strong education and Zionist programs. I am overwhelmed by the advances in medical research made at Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem, benefitting the entire world. There is so much to tell, and I will try to do a little of this each month as I prepare my articles for publication. Suffice it to say, it is with a tremendous amount of pride that I serve this remarkable organization, and welcome all of our new Board members to work hand in hand with those who have served in the past.
imtwirl@sbcglobal.net / 440-221-6468
Naples Jewish Social Club update By Illeen Mittleman, President
T
he Naples Jewish Social Club is a friendly group from southern Lee, Collier and Marco representing the entire Jewish spectrum. We encourage members to jump on board and let your ideas take shape. April event The Naples Jewish Social Club was treated to a fun afternoon with pizza and games, brought to you by Harvey and Carolyn Chodock. March event At the concert and dinner on March 18, we were treated to a performance of the renowned Naples Orchestra and Chorus. Sondra Greer planned this terrific event. The orchestra played
a number of spirited American songs and wonderful patriotic numbers. The dinner at the Trattoria Per Tutti was excellent and a good time was had by all. Bridge and Mahjongg In addition to our regular monthly events, we offer bridge and Mahjongg. Our special interest groups of bridge and maj remain an active, social part of our group. Our terrific bridge games, which include social and duplicate, are played respectively on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at Sterling Oaks Clubhouse in Naples. Games begin at 6:00 p.m. Coffee and cookies are served. Cost is $8 per couple. Reservations are a must by
the preceding Thursday. Contact Tilda Ellis at 239.949.9913. Our Mahjongg game is a spirited one played every Thursday at Long Shore Lake Clubhouse in Naples. Lunch is available at the Clubhouse followed by a fast-paced game for experienced players. Be there for lunch at 11:30 a.m. and continue with play ending at 4:00 p.m. Contact Pauline Taxman at 239.592.7760 or Sondra Greer at 239.353.4468. We are always open to sugges-
tions for special interest groups as we do in bridge and mahjongg. For Sunshine matters, please contact Judy Lansat for updates on members’ health and life events at 239.352.0287. For Membership matters, call Sondra Greer 239.353.4468. For any general questions or suggestions, contact Sheila Marks at 239.514.8289. To contact the Naples Jewish Social Club, contact Illeen Mittleman, President, at 440.221.6468 or imtwirl@sbcglobal.net.
JEWISH WAR VETERANS 239-304-5953
Jewish War Veterans update By Gil Block, Commander Post # 202
W
hen you read this article we will have finished the monthly meetings for the season. We will resume in the fall. We just had a very successful “Fund Raiser” meeting at Syd Fishman’s apartment. We had over 40 people and lots of food, plus Syd provided some great entertainment – the “Andrew Sisters,” who lipsynched all the great songs of the ’40s. It was very well done and well received. Our future project is awarding medals to the outstanding individual
JRROTC students at all seven local high schools. This year, in addition to the medals, we will be giving them a check for $100 each. We would also like to thank Homer Helter for his support. He is one great guy! We will not be participating in any Memorial Day events, as the holiday coincides with Shavuot. Our next meeting will be Sunday, October 21. Thanks to the Federation Star staff for help in publishing our articles.
stay connected at www.jewishnaples.org
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Federation Star May 2012 ACCOUNTANT
BUSINESS DIRECTORY ATTORNEY
A. STEPHEN KOTLER
TYLER B. KORN, ESQ.
Sheldon W. Starman, CPA
THE KORN LAW FIRM, P.L.
Rogers Wood Hill Starman & Gustason Certified Public Accountants 2375 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 110 Naples, FL 34103 Tel: 239-262-1040 Fax: 239-262-8403 Email: sstarman@rwhsgcpa www.rwhsgcpa.com
ATTORNEY - REAL ESTATE • Residential and commercial closings • Title insurance • Community Association Law
Ellen A. Goldman, Esq.
Direct: 239.593.2954 Toll-Free: 800.876.7962 Fax: 239.593.2990 egoldman@porterwright.com
Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP 9132 Strada Place, 3rd Floor, Naples FL 34108
FUNERAL SERVICES
TAX AND CORPORATE LAW NEW YORK, NY
NAPLES, FL
WWW.KORNTAX.COM NEWGATE TOWER, SuiTE 302 5150 TAMiAMi TRAil N. NAPlES, FlORidA 34103
PHONE (239) 354-4300 FAX (239) 354-4310 TKORN@KORNTAX.COM
CEMETeRY
PALM ROYALE
C E M E T E R Y
•
ATTORNEY
M A U S O L E U M
Advanced Cemetery Arrangement Planning
Teresa Shepp Family Service Counselor 6780 Vanderbilt Beach Rd. • Naples, FL 34119 Telephone: (239) 354-5330 www.palmroyale.net
INSURANCE
Board Certified Wills, Trusts and Estate Lawyer
Comprehensive Wealth Transfer Planning Asset Preservation • Federal Transfer Tax Probate and Trust Administration Elder Law and Special Needs
KOTLER LAW FIRM P.L. Phone 239.325.2333
999 Vanderbilt Beach Road Suite 200 Naples, Florida 34108
skotler@kotlerpl.com
DIAMONDS & JEWELRY FRANK WEINBERG
NAPLES DIAMOND SERVICE Diamonds, Watches and Jewelry Bought/Sold, Repaired and Appraised Coins – Bullion 660 9th St. N., Ste. 31-B Naples, Florida 34102
Phone 239-403-1055 Fax 239-403-0946
E-mail mrfrank3@centurylink.net
Interior DECORATOR
Long Term Care Insurance • Life Insurance Income Protection • Critical Illness Coverage North Naples 1625 Pine Ridge Rd. 592-1611
East Naples 4735 Tamiami Trail E. 417-5000
Advanced Funeral Planning Specialists
Mitchell Dannenberg, cltc
(239) 461-5511
Call about our Pre-Planning Discounts
http://ltcimarketplace.com
NEUROLOGY
OPHTHALMOLOGY
PIANO LESSONS
Piano Lessons with Jo Ann Kravitz
Stephen G. Schwartz, M.D., M.B.A.
Associate Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology Medical Director, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at Naples 311 9th Street North, Suite 100 Naples, Florida 34102 www.bascompalmer.org
P O D I A T RIST DIPLOMATE, AMERICAN BOARD OF PODIATRIC SURGERY
239-293-6819 In your home Ages 6 to 106 Affordable Rates BS in Music Education
Phone: (239) 659-3937 Fax: (239) 659-3984 sschwartz2@med.miami.edu
PRINTING
PSYCHOTHERAPY
Ruth Gordon, Psychotherapist MA/MSW/LCSW
FELLOW, AMERICAN PROF. WOUND CARE ASSN.
DR. ROBERT D. TEITELBAUM
30+ years experience helping people just like YOU discover and attain their hopes & aspirations
PODIATRIST
Expert, professional help with: Relationships • Anxiety • Depression • Addiction 239-263-4595 FAX 239-263-8851
Located in North Naples
4763 TAMIAMI TRAIL, N. NAPLES, FL34103
Office: 239.692.8060 Cell: 239.293.4314
rgordon117@comcast.net
DrBob@NaplesPodiatry.com
PSYCHOTHERAPY Melanie Bacal Korn, M.D.
REAL ESTATE
Beth Shaw Adelman, GRI, Realtor®
FACFE, DABFM, DABPN, BCETS
Naples Fine Home Specialist
Board Certified in Psychiatry
239.571.4791
No desire for self-fulfillment should ever be dismissed as insignificant. Newgate Tower, Ste 302 5150 Tamiami Trail N. Naples, Florida 34103
T 239.354.4311 F 239.354.4310
Beth@Bocaexecutive.com www.Bocaexecutiverealty.com/Naples Newest location at Naples Bay Resort! 1490 5th Avenue South, #A1-104 Naples, Florida 34102
www.foreverfabulousyou.com
REAL ESTATE
BUSINESS DIRECTORY 29 Federation Star May 2012 REAL ESTATE
Rickie Klein Your trusted, credible, expert advisor for Naples luxury real estate mobile 239.404.2618 RickieKlein@comcast.net www.RickieNaples.com
TRAVEL
May 2012 Federation Star REAL ESTATE
Elli Taylor, P.A., Broker Associate
29
TRANSPORTATION
To receive quarterly market reports or monthly newsletters, please contact me: (239) 860-2064 etaylor@johnrwood.com www.ellisellsnaples.com
TUTORING
School, Home-school & College Iris Bland, PhD. 352-1027 cell: 682-9965 Mathematics, SAT, ACT
Martin Erdsneker, MS 784-2677 Physics, Science, Mathematics, SAT, ACT Florence Levin, MS 793-7965 cell: 777-5046 HS & College Biology, AP Biology, Anatomy, Physiology Call individual instructor for rate and scheduling
Father Patrick Desbois presentation Photos courtesy of Ivan Seligman
Sponsors: David Willens, Executive Director, Jewish Federation of Collier County; Diane Block; Gilbert Block, Community Relations Committee; Michael Seaman, event underwriter; Rosalee Bogo, President, Jewish Federation; Phyllis Seaman, event underwriter; Jerry Bogo, Jewish Federation Board member
Sponsoring Organization - Center for Judaic, Holocaust & Human Rights Studies at Florida Gulf Cost University Advisory Board: (front row) Lenore Greenstein, Fr. Patrick Desbois, Interim Director Dr. Myra Mendible, co-Chair Ann Jacobson, Janet Sigman, (back row) Merrill Kuller, David Willens, Jack Conroy
Martin Gauthier, co-Chair Catholic/Jewish Dialogue, Gerry Sugarman, Sponsor Fr. John Ludden, Pastor, St. John the Evangelist Church, Fr. Bob Kantor, Pastor, St. Agnes Catholic Church
Myra Shapiro and Charlotte Milavsky, Catholic/Jewish Dialogue Steering Committee
Dottie & Jack Cornett from St. William Catholic Church
St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church Hosts: (seated) Jean & Martha Mador, Fr. Patrick Desbois, Norma & Robert Claussen, (standing) Martin Gauthier, Lorna Woonsam, Fr. John Ludden, Pastor.
Merrill and Gracia Kuller, Patrons
Gail and Russell Smith II, Patrons
Event Underwriters: (seated) Jay Kaye, Development Director, Holocaust Museum & Education Center of SWFL; Fr. Patrick Desbois, Jack Conroy, Past co-Chair Catholic/Jewish Dialogue; (standing) Phyllis Seaman, V. P., Jewish Federation of Collier County; Michael Seaman
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Federation Star May 2012
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
May 2012 / 5772Get the Service you Deserve SUNDAY
MONDAY 1
9:00am JFCS Exec Comm 10:00am JCMI choir practice 10:00am TS-S Board 10:30am JCMI-S Gen Mtg 12:15pm BT Adult Ed 1:30pm CJD Meeting
6
7
8
9:00am BT Religious School 1:00pm HDH Board Mtgs 10:00am CHA Hebrew School 5:30pm JCMI Bingo 10:00am TS Adult Ed 10:00am TS Sunday School 10:00am TS Annual Meeting
13
20
10:00am JCMI choir practice 10:30am JCMI-S Board 12:00pm JCMI-S Lunch 12:15pm BT Adult Ed 7:30pm JFCC Board Mtg
15
14
10:00am CHA Hebrew School 10:30am TS Caregivers 10:00am TS Sunday School Support Group 5:30pm JCMI Bingo
21
WEDNESDAY
TUESDAY 2
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
3
10:00am JFCS Support Grp 11:30am JCMI Mah Jongg 11:30am CHA-M Lunch 1:00pm NJC Board Mtg 1:00pm JCMI Bridge 7:00pm JFCC Annual 1:30pm WCA New Yorker Calendar Meeting 2:30pm CRC Meeting 4:00pm BT Religious School
4
5
11:30am ORT Board Mtg 5:30pm HJH Potluck Shabbat 6:00pm TS Services 7:30pm BT Services 8:00pm JCMI Services
8:30am TS Torah Talk 9:30am BT Services 9:30am JCMI Services 10:00am CHA Services 10:00am TS Services 6:00pm NJSC Kentucky Derby Party
9
10
10:00am JFCS Support Grp 11:30am CHA-M Lunch 1:00pm JCMI Bridge 2:30pm Israel Affairs Mtg 4:00pm BT Religious School
10:00am JFCS Bereavement 7:30pm BT Services Support Group 7:30pm TS Services 11:30am JCMI Mah Jongg 8:00pm JCMI Services 3:00pm HM Exec Comm 7:00pm TS Taste of Judaism
11
9:00am JFCS Board Mtg 10:00am JCMI choir practice 12:15pm BT Adult Ed 2:00pm NJC Board Mtg 7:00pm TS Exec Comm
16
17
10:00am JFCS Support Grp 11:30am CHA-M Lunch 1:00pm JCMI Bridge 4:00pm BT Religious School 7:30pm ZOA Mtg at BT
10:00am HJH Board Mtg 7:30pm BT Services 10:00am JFCS Bereavement 7:30pm TS Services Support Group 8:00pm JCMI Services 11:30am JCMI Mah Jongg 1:30pm TS-S Book Bag 7:00pm BT Board Mtg 7:00pm TS Exec Comm 7:00pm TS Taste of Judaism
22
23
18
24
25
10:00am CHA Hebrew School 12:00pm NJC-S Book Club 10:00am TS Sunday School 1:00pm HDH Study Group 2:00pm HJH Comm Mtg 5:30pm JCMI Bingo
10:00am JCMI choir practice 10:00am JFCS Support Grp 12:15pm BT Adult Ed 11:30am CHA-M Lunch 7:00pm TS Board Meeting 1:00pm CHA Lunch & Learn 1:00pm JCMI Bridge 4:00pm BT Religious School
10:00am JFCS Bereavement 10:00am TS Preschool Graduation Support Group 11:30am JCMI Mah Jongg 7:30pm BT Services 3:00pm HM Board Meeting 7:30pm NJC Services 7:30pm TS Services 7:00pm TS Board Meeting 7:00pm TS Taste of Judaism 8:00pm JCMI Services 7:30pm JCMI Board Mtg
27 SHAVUOT
29
31
9:30 BT Services 10:00am CHA Services 10:00am TS Services 5:00pm CHA Blintz Buffet
28 SHAVUOT MEMORIAL DAY 9:30 BT Services 10:00am CHA Services 10:30am TS Caregivers Support Group 5:30pm JCMI Bingo 7:30 BT Book Group
30
SATURDAY
12 9:30am BT Services 9:30am JCMI Services 10:00am CHA Services 10:00am TS Services
19 9:30am BT Services 9:30am JCMI Services 10:00am CHA Services 10:00am TS Services
26 9:30am BT Services 9:30am JCMI Services 10:00am CHA Services 10:00am TS Services
Candle lighting times:
10:00am JCMI choir practice 10:00am JFCS Support Grp 10:00am JFCS Bereavement 12:15pm BT Adult Ed 11:30am CHA-M Lunch Support Group 1:00pm JCMI Bridge 11:30am JCMI Mah Jongg 4:00pm BT Religious School
May May May May
4: 7:43 11: 7:46 18: 7:50 25: 7:54
Throughout the year, some holidays fall within the normal work week. The Federation office will be closed in observance of those holidays which are listed in all CAPITAL LETTERS.
Key: • AJC: American Jewish Committee • ATS: American Technion Society • BT: Beth Tikvah • CHA: Chabad Jewish Center of Naples • CHA: Chabad Men’s Club • CJD: Catholic/Jewish Dialogue • CRC: Community Relations Committee • HDH: Hadassah • HJH: Humanistic Jewish Havurah • HM: Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida
Federation Star Publication Policy The Federation Star is a subsidized arm of the Jewish Federation of Collier County (JFCC). Its purpose and function is to publicize the activities and programs of the “Federation,” and to publicize the ongoing activities of the established and recognized Jewish organizations within Collier County. The mission of the JFCC is to reach out and unite all Jews of the greater Collier County area. While offering opinions and points of view do, and will continue to, exist about many issues of importance to Jews, the Federation Star will confine itself to publishing ONLY items that report the facts of actual events of concern to Jews and will only offer commentary that clearly intends to unite all Jews in a common purpose or purposes. Critical or derogatory comments directed at individuals or organizations will NOT be published in the Federation Star.
• ISRB: Israel Bonds • JCMI: Jewish Congregation of Marco Island • JCMI-M: JCMI Men’s Club • JCMI-S: JCMI Sisterhood • JFCC: Jewish Federation of Collier County • JFCS: Jewish Family and Community Services • JNF: Jewish National Fund • JWV: Jewish War Veterans • MDA: Magen David Adom • NCJW: National Council of Jewish Women (Adopted by the Officers and Board of Trustees of the Jewish Federation of Collier County 1/98) To avoid misunderstandings, controversies and destructive divisions among our people, the Officers and Board of Trustees of the “Federation” have adopted the following publication policy: Advertisements: All advertisements, regardless of their sponsor, shall be paid for in full, at the established rates, prior to publication. The contents of all advertisements shall be subject to review and approval of the Federation Board or its designee. Commercial advertisers may make credit arrangements with the advertising manager, subject to the approval of the Federation Board. Regular Columns: Regular columns shall be accepted only from leaders (Rabbis, Presidents, Chairpersons) of established and recognized Jewish organizations within Collier County and the designated Chairpersons of the regular committees of the Jewish Federation of Collier County.
• NJC: Naples Jewish Congregation • NJC-M: Naples Jewish Congregation Men’s Club • NJC-S: Naples Jewish Congregation Sisterhood • NJSC: Naples Jewish Social Club • ORT: Organization for Rehabilitation/Training • TS: Temple Shalom • TS-M: Temple Shalom Men’s Club • TS-S: Temple Shalom Sisterhood • WCA: Women’s Cultural Alliance • ZOA: Zionist Organization of America
Special Announcements: Special announcements shall be accepted from established Jewish organizations within Collier County and may, at the discretion of the Federation Board, be subject to the conditions applicable to paid advertisements, as set forth above. News Items: Only those news items pertaining to matters of general interest to the broadest cross-section of the Jewish Community will be accepted for publication. Note: Items of controversial opinions and points of view, about political issues, will not be accepted for publication without prior approval of a majority of the Federation Officers and Trustees. All persons and organizations objecting to the actions and rulings of the Editor or Publications Committee Chairman shall have the right to appeal those rulings to the Officers and Board of Trustees of the JFCC.
Federation membership
According to the By-Laws of the Jewish Federation of Collier County, members are those individuals who make an annual gift of $36 or more to the UJA Federation Campaign in our community. For more information, please contact the Federation at (239) 263-4205.
May 2012 COMMUNITY DIRECTORY 31 Federation Star TEMPLE SHALOM OF NAPLES (Reform) 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL 34119 Phone: 455-3030 Fax: 455-4361 Email: info@naplestemple.org www.naplestemple.org Rabbi Adam Miller Cantor Donna Azu James H. Perman, D.D., Rabbi Emeritus Donald L. Shapiro, President Susan Shechter Daugherty, Exec. Dir. Caren Plotkin, Religious School Dir. Seyla Cohen, Preschool Director Peter Lewis, Organist/Choir Director Shabbat Services: Shabbat Eve - Friday 7:30 p.m. Shabbat - Saturday 10:00 a.m. • Sisterhood • Men’s Club • Adult Education • Havurot • Youth Groups • Religious School • Judaic Library • Hebrew School • Pre-School • Adult Choir • Social Action • Outreach
May 2012 Federation Star
JEWISH CONGREGATION OF MARCO ISLAND
NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION
BETH TIKVAH
(Reform)
(Conservative)
991 Winterberry Drive Marco Island, FL 34145 Phone: 642-0800 Fax: 642-1031 Email: mgr.jcmioffice@embarqmail.com Website: MarcoJCMI.tripod.com
Services are held at: The Unitarian Congregation 6340 Napa Woods Way Rabbi Sylvin Wolf Ph.D, DD 234-6366 Email: sylvinwolf@comcast.net www.naplesjewishcongregation.org
1459 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34109
Rabbi Edward M. Maline, DD Hari Jacobsen, Cantorial Soloist Stephen Goldenberg, President
Don Pomerantz, President Jane Galler, Cantorial Soloist
Shabbat Services Friday 8:00 p.m.
Shabbat Services
Torah Study and Saturday Services
Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m. May - August: services once a month
• Sisterhood • Men’s Club • Brownstein Judaica Gift Shop
Sisterhood • Men’s Club
Fore!
Naples’ only Judaica Shop
31
(just west of Mission Square Plaza)
Phone: (239) 434-1818 Email: bethtikvahnaples@aol.com Website: www.bethtikvahnaples.org President: Stuart Kaye Vice President: Phil Jason Secretary: Sue Hammerman Shabbat Services Friday evenings at 7:30pm Saturday mornings at 9:30am Youth Education - Adult Education Community Events
Jewish Organizations to Serve You in Collier County (All area codes are 239 unless otherwise noted.)
Jewish Federation of Collier County CHABAD NAPLES JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER serving Naples and Marco Island 1789 Mandarin Road, Naples, FL 34102 Phone: 262-4474 Email: info@chabadnaples.com Website: www.chabadnaples.com Rabbi Fishel Zaklos Dr. Arthur Seigel, President Ettie Zaklos, Education Director Shabbat Services Shabbat - Saturday 10am • Camp Gan Israel • Hebrew School • Preschool of the Arts • Jewish Women’s Circle • Adult Education • Bat Mitzvah Club • Friendship Circle • Smile on Seniors • Flying Challah • Kosher food delivery The Federation Star is published monthly, September through July, by the Jewish Federation of Collier County. 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road Suite 2201 Naples, FL 34109-0613 Phone: 239-263-4205 Fax: 239-263-3813 E-mail: info@jewishnaples.org Website: www.jewishnaples.org Volume 21, No. 9 May 2012 32 pages USPS Permit No. 419 Publisher: Jewish Federation of Collier County
Phone: 263-4205 Fax: 263-3813 Website: www.jewishnaples.org Email: info@jewishnaples.org
It can be rough out there. Feel trapped by the many demands on your time and money? And you just putter around? There’s a fairway to iron out your affairs with a charitable trust or other technique that can slice your tax bill and leave some clubs in the bag for your heirs. You be the driver. Tee off today with a lifetime gift or charitable bequest to the Jewish Federation of Collier County. What better an endowment base we could have for our community if we all chip in. Please join our club. And you can be . . . without par! For more information on gift planning, call David Willens, Executive Director, at 239.263.4205.
• President: Shelley Skelton, 676-3052
Holocaust Museum & Education Center of Southwest Florida • President: Joshua Bialek, 263-9200
Humanistic Jewish Havurah of Southwest Florida • Paula Creed, 495-8484
Israel Bonds • Reva Pearlstein, 800-622-8017 • Tyler Korn, 254-0400
Jewish Family and Community Services of Southwest Florida Phone: 325-4444 • Chairperson: Millie Sernovitz • Executive Director: Dr. Jaclynn Faffer
Jewish National Fund
Jewish War Veterans Post 202,Collier Co. Chapter
David Willens, Executive Director – david@jewishnaples.org
• Commander, Gil Block, 304-5953 • Senior Vice Commander, M/Gen. Bernard L. Weiss, USAF Ret. 594-7772
Melissa Keel, Community Prog. Coord. – melissa@jewishnaples.org Iris Doenias, Office Assistant – iris@jewishnaples.org Deborah Vacca, Bookkeeper – deborah@jewishnaples.org
Design: Federation Media Group, Inc.
Ted Epstein, Editor, Federation Star – federationstar@comcast.net
Send news stories to: FederationStar@comcast.net
Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah
Please note our email addresses:
General information requests – info@jewishnaples.org
June Issue Deadlines: Editorial: May 4 Advertising: May 7
American Technion Society • Chapter Dir: Jennifer Singer, 941-378-1500 • Naples Chairman: L.C. Goldman, 592-5884
• West/Central FL Office, 800-211-1502 Uri ext 8910, Beth ext 8911
Editor: Ted Epstein, 239-249-0699 FederationStar@comcast.net
Advertising: Jacqui Aizenshtat 239-777-2889
• Federation President: Rosalee Bogo • Executive Director: David Willens
Federation Star advertising – jacqui1818@gmail.com
Naples Friends of American Magen David Adom (MDA) • Exec Dir: Robert Schwartz, 954-457-9766
Naples Jewish Social Club • President: Illeen Mittleman, 440-221-6468
National Council of Jewish Women • Co-President: Bobbie Katz, 353-5963 • Co-President: Linda Wainick, 354-9117
ORT - Gulf Beaches Chapter
Read the current and previous editions of the Federation Star in a unique online format at
www.jewishnaples.org
• President: Marina Berkovich, 566-1771
Women’s Cultural Alliance • President: Jane Hersch, 948-0003
Zionist Organization of America • President Southwest Florida Chapter: Jerry Sobel, 597-0855
32
Federation Star May 2012
The poorest Jews in the world live in the former Soviet Union. Last year you helped 168,000 find reason to smile. By supporting leading-edge food distribution systems and an innovative network of centrally located community centers, Jewish Federation is helping seniors across the former Soviet Union live with dignity and pride. It’s a successful strategy we apply to every issue we tackle. Whether responding to natural disasters, helping the unemployed or supporting innovative Jewish education, together we do a world of good. Donate. Volunteer. Make a difference today.
FS0512 Everything Federation does is made possible By supporting leading-edge food distribution systems andthrough an innovathe generous donations from members of tive network of centrally located community centers, Jewishthe Federation community. Please consider making a gift today! is helping seniors across the former Soviet Union live with dignity and Ipride. hereby andstrategy promise pay to my Federation for theWheth2011 JFCC/UJA Annual Campaign a contribution of: It’s apledge successful wetoapply every issue we tackle. JewishFederations.org/AnnualCampaign er responding natural the unemployed facebook.com/jfederations @jfederations $36 $72 to $180 disasters, $540helping other $_________or supporting innovative Jewish education, together we do a world of good. Jewish Federation may add a 3.0% donation #__________) Please bill me Contribution enclosed Donate. Volunteer. Make(Check a difference today. to my payment to offset credit card service fee _____ (initials or √ denote authorization) Please charge my: MasterCard Visa American Express
YOU MAKE IT POSSIBLE!
Account #______________________________________________ Exp. Date____________ ccv#_________ Name: ________________________________________________ Signature:_________________________________________ Billing Address:____________________________________________________________________________________ City: ___________________________________ ST: _______ Zip: _______________ Phone: ______________________________ Please send to: Jewish Federation of Collier County, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Suite 2201, Naples, FL 34109-0613 JFCC/UJA CAMPAIGN OF UNITED JEWISH COMMUNITIES