Federation Star - May 2015 by Jewish Federation of Collier County

The Israel Scouts are coming to Naples! Tuesday, June 9 7:00 p.m. at Temple Shalom See page 3 for more details.

Celebrating Jewish Life in Collier County, Israel and the World

Federation Star Published by the Jewish Federation of Collier County serving Naples, Marco Island and the surrounding communities

www.JewishNaples.org INSIDE THIS ISSUE: 5 6 7 10 16 16 18 19 20 22 22 23 26 27

Men’s Cultural Alliance Women’s Cultural Alliance Community Focus Jewish Interest Tributes Israel & the Jewish World Commentary Business Directory Focus on Youth Rabbinical Reflections Synagogues Organizations Community Calendar Community Directory

9 JNF honors Myra and Dr. Morton Friedman

14 Exhibition: “The Seventh Day: Revisiting Shabbat”

17 FIDF Miami event benefits Israeli soldiers

21 Naples BBYO spring events

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May 2015 - Iyar/Sivan 5775

If it weren’t for WCA. . . By Susan Pittelman, WCA Publicity Director

hen snowbirds try to explain to friends up north how busy life is in Southwest Florida, people who don’t live here have difficulty believing what we are saying! Why do so many of us live such full, rich lives while we are here? Much of it is due to the Women’s Cultural Alliance (WCA). WCA was formed in November 2008 after the membership of the local Brandeis chapter decided to sever its ties with Brandeis University National Women’s Committee. With guidance and support from Evy Lipp, Donna Wasser (both past presidents of the chapter) and David Willens, who was then the Executive Director of the Federation, a new organization, Women’s Cultural Alliance, was created as an affinity group of the Jewish Federation of Collier County. By January 2009, with Donna Wasser and Jane Hirsch as co-presidents, the newly formed Women’s Cultural Alliance had approximately 200 members and 19 program offerings. Dues were $60. Jane became president in 2010 and continued to serve in that role until November 2013. During Jane’s presidency, WCA flourished! Jane was a star at recruiting new members, and when she stepped down as president, WCA membership had reached 1,000 members and the number of program offerings had increased to nearly 500. Elaine Soffer, who had been WCA Programming Director, was unanimously elected WCA president in early 2014, and under the guidance of Elaine and the WCA Board of Directors, WCA has continued to grow. As of this printing, WCA has nearly 1,200 members and ever expanding programming. WCA formed “satellite groups” for women who live North of Naples (into southern Lee County) or South of Naples (down to Marco Island), and nine “Summer Branches” so that when women return home for the summer, they can continue the friendships they made in Southwest Florida. WCA has a huge impact on so many of us. From the multiple study, social and special interest groups to the hundreds of programs and events that

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

WCA offers – the skills we have learned, the experiences we have had, and the friendships we have formed all greatly enrich our lives. Can you imagine your life in Southwest Florida if it weren’t for WCA? If it weren’t for WCA: . . . I would not have had the opportunity to continue to further my intellectual curiosity and have had as much fun doing so! I never could have met so many fabulous women. ~ Barbara Karp . . . I would never have met women who were so interesting, stimulating, diverse, and filled with a desire to do and to learn. WCA has enriched my life with art, music, crafts, reading, lectures, and food and fun. True Paradise . . . ~ Gail Nizin . . . I would ask myself, “What will I do today?” rather than “Which book club, lecture, art tour, craft activity, luncheon or day trip should I choose to do today?” ~ Linda Simon . . . our Jewish community would not be as vital and vibrant as it is. Because of WCA, our community engages more than 1,000 women in cultural, educational, social and philanthropic activities from which they benefit AND so does our entire Jewish community! ~ Jeffrey D. Feld, President/CEO, Jewish Federation of Collier County . . . I would have to fly back North for every holiday. But now I have a second family here. ~ Marilyn Litz . . . I wouldn’t feel so alive and involved. ~ Nancy Kahn . . . I would not feel connected to so many women. We share a common

continued on page 6

Vol. 24 #9

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BRIEFS NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC VOTES TEL AVIV ONE OF THE WORLD’S TOP TEN OCEANFRONT CITIES

In a recent posting by the National Geographic website, Tel Aviv was ranked as one of the top ten oceanfront cities of the world, joining San Diego, Tallinn, St John’s, Marseille, Perth, Brisbane, Durban, Vladivostok and Portland. National Geographic groups these cities together, saying that the “glittering seascapes provide both the backdrop and the beat of these waterfront urban meccas.” There’s always plenty of action along Tel Aviv’s shoreline. Tel AvivYafo boasts nearly nine miles and 13 beaches along its shores, equipped with lounge chairs, restaurants, bars, outdoor gyms, children’s playgrounds and a promenade along the shoreline with continual movement from walkers, joggers or those just enjoying the view and taking a stroll. Often referred to as “the city that doesn’t sleep,” the shoreline of Tel Aviv boasts dozens of restaurants, cafes and ice cream parlors busy all day long, while pubs, discos and jazz clubs blossom after dark. Regardless of the hour, there is always something happening on the sea front, from clowns and caricaturists to tattoo artists, hairbraiders and magicians, as well as the popular and iconic paddle-ball game called matkot, and even Israeli folkdancing. The city’s beaches are well-

continued on page 16

is pleased to announce the 1st annual

Jewish Book Fair of Collier County

The Jewish Book Fair of Collier County will take place next season over several days and at different venues throughout the area. It will feature about ten authors talking about their new books. As details become available, they will be published in the Federation Star, in Federation eblasts and on www. jewishnaples.org. To help create the best possible Jewish Book Fair, we need several committee members as well as readers to review potential authors/books. Book readers are needed during the two-week period of May 29 - June 11, 2015. If you are interested in being a book reader or on the committee, please email Ted Epstein at fedstar18@gmail.com. More detailed information will be sent in early May to those interested in helping make the 1st annual Jewish Book Fair of Collier County a huge success.

Federation Star May 2015

JEWISH FEDERATION

Advertising Sales Reps needed Get ready, they’re coming! another 100,000 residents within the for the Jewish Federation of next 15 years. Alvin Not surprisingly, much of the exBecker pected growth arises from people movCollier County’s publications ing from the frozen North – especially Federation Board Chair

The Jewish Federation of Collier County is looking for outgoing, energetic go-getters who can meet goals and create lasting connections with local businesses. If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, enjoy speaking to people, and believe in the work of the Federation, then we want you on our team! This position is 100% outside sales, selling the advertising space in the Federation’s publications (Federation Star, Connections, Community Directory, Annual Report) as well as sponsorships. You’ll also have the opportunity to sell advertising space for the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties’ publications – L’Chayim and Connections.

s reported recently, this season’s crowded Naples scene may not be going away. Statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau show that the population of the Naples-ImmokaleeMarco Island area grew by 2.5% from July 1, 2013 to July 1, 2014, ranking it 10th on the list of the fastest-growing metro areas by percentage increase in population – in the entire country! And, looking forward, Collier County planners expect the county’s population to reach 800,000 over the next 50-70 years while the greater Naples Chamber of Commerce points to statistics that estimate Collier County will add

Shavuot – Weeks Jeffrey Feld

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the Northeast. And we can estimate, therefore, that many of the newcomers will be Jewish and that they will be seeking a vibrant and welcoming Jewish community – one that properly addresses its cultural, charitable, social and humanitarian needs. It is to that end that your Jewish Federation of Collier County has embarked on a strategic planning process to position itself to meet the challenges of the future. We want to be sure that we continue to have the resources – physical, financial and human – to provide support, financial and otherwise, to programs and organizations that will appeal to a growing Jewish population. Stay tuned for more!

Federation President/ CEO

e celebrate a holiday that is called “Weeks.” Clearly, it identifies the amount of time from Passover to this festival that gives it that name. During this timeframe, we will have celebrated Passover, commemorated Yom HaShoah, observed Yom HaZikaron, celebrated Yom Ha’Atzmaut, celebrated Lag B’Omer, and even celebrated Yom Yerushalayim. As a Jewish community, we celebrate and commemorate or remember a multitude of holidays and events. Shavuot is known as “Zman Matan Torah,” the time of the giving of the Torah. It is a holiday that identifies Israel being a land of “milk and honey,” which, by the way, is why we enjoy dairy products on this holiday. Shavuot is also one of our “harvest” festivals and renowned for “first fruits.” For me, it has been Weeks of becoming acclimated to my new community. I have experienced my first Season and I absolutely admire and enjoy all of the activity and energy. I applaud everyone for their commitment to being involved in helping to make our community a vital, vibrant one. I want

to thank each of you for all that you do to help us Build Community, Together! This year, we created a Campaign Cabinet to lead the Annual Community Campaign. The Campaign Cabinet Chairs have enlisted volunteers to work within their divisions who have been calling on friends, neighbors and other community members to have conversations about the needs of our community. Our goal is not necessarily only a dollar amount. Rather, we are making a concerted effort to personalize what we do. It is by building all of these relationships that we will be able to Build Community, Together. In order to build, one must have a plan. Our Federation is engaged in creating a strategic plan for the Federation and for our community. We must look at who we are now and what we expect to be for the near (and perhaps not so near) future. Together, we should identify current needs and even anticipate future needs. We need your input to accomplish this. I would like to hear from you. Please call me at 239.263.4205 so that we may discuss your thoughts on the future of our community or to make an appointment so that we can have that conversation in person. From all of our discussions and planning, by this time next year, we should be able to identify the “first fruits” that will come from all of these efforts.

The Federation Star delivers! Introduce your business to a POWERFUL demographic and reach over 6,000 Jewish residents in the Greater Naples area! For ad rates and deadlines, contact Ted Epstein at 239.249.0699 or fedstar18@gmail.com.

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. Beth Adelman, Realtor®.........19 A. Stephen Kotler, Attorney....19 Kevin Aizenshtat, Realtor®......2 Dr. Gary Layton, DDS............18 CallSaul-YourPersonalDriver.19 LTCi Marketplace..................19 Classic Transportation...........19 Naples Diamond Service.......19 Coni Mar Designs..................19 Naples Envelope & Printing..19 Entertainment Direct..............10 New Beginnings by Dodi.......19 Dr. William Ertag, FAAN.......19 Palm Royale Cemetery............7 FGCU....................................7 Pearl, Freeman & Kuhl.............3 Fuller Funeral Home.........17,19 Preferred Travel.....................15 Dr. David Greene...................17 Stage 62 Delicatessen............11 Gulfcoast Foot & Ankle.........12 Sheldon Starman, CPA...........19 Hodges Funeral Home.............9 Debbie Zvibleman, Realtor®..10 Jewish Museum of FL-FIU......8

May 2015 Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

Israel Scouts coming to Naples on Tuesday, June 9 By Ted Epstein, Federation Star Editor

et ready! The Tzofim (Israel Scouts) Friendship Caravan is coming to Naples! Join us yfor their performance at 7:00 p.m. on ,Tuesday, June 9 at Temple Shalom, and a performance at the JFCS Senior Center lthe next day (time to be announced in the June issue). y l

The Caravan is made up of five girls, five boys and two Caravan leaders from all over Israel. In order to be in the Caravan, these teenagers went through a highly competitive selection process and were chosen based on their maturity, fluency in English, and performance skills.

Scouting is big in Israel, with over 60,000 members, and those chosen to participate here are selected for their ability to best represent Israel. As shlichim, or Israeli delegates, these teens have a love for Israel and a desire to share that with North Americans. The Scouts are bright and dynamic performers. Their singing, dancing and storytelling are high-energy and upbeat. They will have you singing and dancing

in your seat or, if you are lucky, dancing with them. The Scouts spend the 10 weeks of summer performing in synagogues and churches, schools and summer camps, even nursing homes – wherever people want to share their love for Israel. The Scouts events in Naples are sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Collier County.

The hosting experience is oftentimes the most exciting and meaningful part of the Caravan’s visit. Community members are responsible for hosting the twelve Caravan members. The hosting relationship goes far beyond providing food and a bed – the host families become true surrogate families during their stay. Families love bringing the Caravan into their homes, getting to know the teens and learning more about Israel. It is a valuable and unforgettable experience.

Responsibilities include dinner and sleeping arrangements on Tuesday night, June 9, breakfast on Wednesday morning, and transportation to/from the events on both days. If you have youngsters or teens at home, this would be a real treat for them. If you are interested in hosting one or more of the Scouts or team leaders, please email fedstar18@gmail.com or call 239.249.0699 to sign up or for more information.

Local families needed to host the Scouts

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The 2013 Israel Scouts at a performance at Temple Shalom

Israel Advocacy Committee update By Jeff Margolis

srael Advocacy Committee co-chair Betty Schwartz and committee member Alan Gordon attended the recent AIPAC Policy Conference in Washington, D.C. Nearly 17,000 delegates from around the country convened to express their support for Israel. About 3,000 very enthusiastic high school and college students were also in attendance, an encouraging show of interest from the next generation. Featured speakers included Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, United States Ambassador to the UN Samantha Power, and members of Congress from both political parties.

As we head into the summer season, members of the Israel Advocacy Committee are busy screening films and potential guest speakers for next season. Additionally several exciting summer events are planned for those residents who are here all year round. On Wednesday, July 15, the IAC will be presenting a screening of the film Above and Beyond, a compelling documentary about the birth of Israel’s Air Force. On Wednesday, August 12, the community is invited to view a sneak preview of the newest installment of the acclaimed series, The Prime Ministers, by the Academy Award-winning

Moriah Films Division of the Simon Wiesenthal Museum of Tolerance. This next segment is entitled Soldiers and Peacemakers. The first film in this series, The Prime Ministers: The Pioneers, was screened by a sellout audience last winter. Both films will be presented in the David G. Willens Community Room of the Jewish Federation of Collier County. Plans are already underway for the exclusive showing of the highly regarded film Body and Soul - The State of the Jewish Nation, produced by Doc Emet Productions. The film will be shown on January 13, 2016 with the filmmaker,

Gloria Greenfield, in attendance. Additionally, The Prime Ministers: Soldiers and Peacemakers will be screened for the entire community on February 17, 2016. Please continue to check the Federation eblasts as more details become available. The members of the Israel Advocacy Committee wish everyone a Happy Shavuot. For more information about the activities of the Israel Advocacy Committee, please contact Steve Brazina at sbrazina@aol.com.

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Federation Star May 2015

JEWISH FEDERATION

Catholic-Jewish Dialogue update Marv Weisberg CJD co-Chair

n Sunday, March 22, the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County presented “A New Future: Building Shalom Between Catholics and Jews,” the first episode of “Walking G-d’s Paths.” This session offered an overview of the past, present and future of Christian-Jewish relations and introduced participants to the dynamics of interfaith dialogue and the different perspectives Christians and Jews bring to the conversation. This event was attended by approximately 45 people, many of whom were new to the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue. A lively discussion followed the video presentation. “Walking G-d’s Paths” is a six-session program to stimulate candid conversation between Jewish and Christian congregations. Produced by the Center for Christian-Jewish Learning at Boston College on behalf and with the oversight of the National Council of Synagogues

and the Bishops’ Committee on Ecuspect in our faith communities. Martin menical and Interreligious Affairs of the Gauthier, committee co-chair, presented U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, it two plaques to Rabbi Wolf – one from is made available online through special the committee and one from The Very arrangement with the Council of Centers Reverend Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of on Jewish-Christian Relations. the Diocese of Venice in Florida. In his The series consists of 15-minute letter to Rabbi Wolf, Bishop Dewane discussion-starting videotapes. Parsays, “Your ten years of involvement ticipants experience each tradition’s as an active supporter and member of understanding of how it walks G-d’s the Steering Committee has done much path and how the two faith communities to help foster the important ongoing could relate to one another in positive dialogue and relationship between our ways. Our plan is to present all six sesfaith traditions.” sions over the next three to five years. Now that season is over and there are no more planned events, we are starting work on next season’s calendar. Watch this space for next year’s schedule. A fond farewell At its March 22 event, the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue said “so-long” to a longtime Steering Committee member. Rabbi Sylvin Wolf has decided to leave the committee after serving ten The Very Rev. Robert Kantor of St. Agnes Church, years helping to further unRabbi Sylvin Wolf, Catholic-Jewish Dialogue Steering Committee co-Chair Martin Gauthier derstanding and mutual re-

Over the past ten years Rabbi Wolf has been a driving force behind the Dialogue’s success. He helped organize a “Meals of Hope” meal-packing event in which 65,000 meals were packaged in one day. His teachings on faith and religion have helped many to gain an understanding of both religions. We have heard more than once that someone attended an event in order to learn about the other religion, but through Rabbi Wolf’s explanations and discussion, they learned more about their own religion instead. His “nuts and bolts” approach to discussing faith have proved to be an inspiration to both Martin Gauthier and me. In the words of committee member Lenore Greenstein, “Rabbi Wolf has been a bridge builder between the Catholic and Jewish communities in Naples. He has been an active member of the Dialogue, never refusing to help organize and execute our programs, and has been a leader in every respect of the word.” I, for one, will sorely miss the lively discussions often sparked by his comments and suggestions, and I am sure he will be a driving force behind his next endeavor, whatever it may be.

We need you now Phyllis Seaman Federation Vice Chair

ummer is almost here. Our population is thinning, traffic is easing and the humidity is rising, but Federation is still open for business and starting to plan our 2015-2016 calendar. We will be working on our social calendar, major fundraising events, speakers and venues. As always, we welcome volunteers for committees and new ideas for programs and events. If you are interested in volunteering or personally have connections to entertainment or speakers for an event, or just want to share ideas, please get in touch with the Federation office. Jeffrey Feld or our staff would be happy to speak to you or help you get in touch with me. Our major 2015 events were exceptionally successful. The Major Gifts Cocktail Party at Phyllis and Stephen Strome’s beautiful home in Mediterra, the Community Event at Wyndemere Country Club, and The Evy Lipp People of the Book Event all had the largest attendances ever. In September, the Allocations Committee will resume meeting and working on applications from the many organizations, synagogues and programs that depend on our Federation for assistance. Some of us who are here year round will make site visits to see programs that our Federation and your dollars support with grants. The Campaign is going strong and our Campaign Cabinet is trying to reach as many people before June to get gifts or committed pledges so that we have

a better idea of dollars available for allocations and grants. Remember, if you make your gift to Federation now instead of waiting until December, your deduction is the same, but we can plan allocations and grants to all our recipients earlier. Federation runs all year, not seasonally. The same holds true for our recipients and their needs. This summer, eleven children will have the opportunity to attend Jewish sleepaway camp programs. One teen received assistance to be a student reporter at the Maccabi Games. Twelve students will have a wonderful summer thanks to your generosity. Our Federation also provides grants to Camp Gan Israel for children to attend a day camp program. Thanks to Beth Wolff, Chair of the Scholarship Committee, and Harrilee Shevin, who has been on the Committee for 20 years, for all their time, effort and thoughtful deliberations. I’m very excited to share plans for one of my summer trips. In early July, I will be going on a Campaign trip to Israel. Hopefully, this trip, like my Odessa/Israel Campaign Mission in 2013, will give me plenty of information to share with you in the fall. We will be visiting many recipients and programs that are supported through The Jewish Federations of North America and our partner agencies, Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) and Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). This will allow you insight into where your dollars go in Israel, and through my stories and pictures, hopefully touch you personally. I’ll be spending one day at the end of my trip with my friend Hava Levine, Special Projects Director at Neve Michael. Our Federation and my family have been committed to the support of Neve Michael, Home for

What do you think? The Federation Star wants to know! Send your letters and comments to fedstar18@gmail.com

Letters Policy

Include your name, full address and daytime phone. Letters should be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length and/or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the Jewish Federation of Collier County, the Federation Star or its advertisers. We cannot acknowledge or publish every letter received.

Children in Crisis. Please consider your gift to the 2015 Campaign NOW! Increased giving is always appreciated. I will leave you with a quote from one of the last century’s smartest, most respected Jewish women and former Prime Minister of Israel, Golda Meir:

“It is not what you gather, but what you scatter that tells what kind of life you have lived.” Food for thought. We are responsible for our Jewish continuity. No gift touches more lives.

We Are The Strength of a People – The Power of Community WHERE YOUR DOLLARS GO Youth Programs & Youth Education  Beth Tikvah Youth Education  BBYO Naples  Camp Scholarships  Chabad - Camp Gan Israel/Preschool of the Arts/Hebrew School  Jewish War Veterans Post #202  Temple Shalom - Preschool & Religious School Scholarships  Hillel at Florida Gulf Coast University Israel & Overseas Humanitarian & Social Services  American Jewish World Service  JFNA - Overseas Core Assessment  JFNA - Israel Action Network  JFNA - Stop the Sirens Campaign  JNF - Sderot Emergency Fund  JNF - Red Mountain Therapeutic Riding Center  Neve Michael Children’s Village  Yad LaKashish  Sapir Community Center, Kfar Saba  WUPJ - HaTikvah Preschool in Ukraine  Birthright Israel  ORT (World ORT/ORT America) Local Humanitarian & Social Services  Jewish Family & Community Services  Senior Outreach & Support  Developing Healthy Socialization Skills  Counseling & Mental Health Support Cultural Programs & Adult Education  Anti-Defamation League  Beth Tikvah Scholar-in-Residence  Catholic-Jewish Dialogue  Evy Lipp People of the Book Event  Fund for Human Needs  Holocaust Museum & Education Center of SWFL  Israel Advocacy Committee Programs  Jewish Community Relations Council  Men’s Cultural Alliance  Naples Jewish Congregation Cultural Program  Stand Up for Justice Grant  Temple Shalom Men’s Club  Jewish Cong. of Marco Island - Jewish Film Festival  Jewish Cong. of Marco Island - Cultural Series  Women’s Cultural Alliance

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May 2015 Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

Published by

Men's Cultural Alliance of Collier County 2015-2016 Membership Form

The membership year is from November 1 until October 31 of the next year. Dues received after April 30 will be applied to the next season.

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 Ofﬁcers

Board Chair: Alvin Becker Vice Chair: Kevin Aizenshtat Vice Chair: Phyllis Seaman Secretary: Wallie Lenchner Treasurer: Jerry Sobelman Immed. Past Chair: Judge Norman Krivosha

Board of Trustees Joshua Bialek Rosalee Bogo David Braverman Harvey Brenner Dan Carp Stephen Coleman Karen Deutsch Amanda Dorio Michael Feldman Alan Gordon Neil Heuer Joel Pittelman Jane Schiff Arlene Sobol Michael Sobol Steve Strome Dr. Daniel Wasserman Beth Wolff Edward Wollman Barry Zvibleman

Past Presidents

Gerald Flagel, Dr. William Ettinger, Ann Jacobson, Sheldon Starman, Bobbie Katz, Rosalee Bogo

Board Members Emeritus Hans Levy Shirley Levy

Synagogue Representatives Cantor Donna Azu Sue Baum Rabbi Ammos Chorny Phil Jason Rabbi Edward Maline Rabbi Adam Miller Suzanne Paley Rabbi James Perman Dr. Arthur Seigel Neil Shnider Rabbi Sylvin Wolf Rabbi Fishel Zaklos

Federation President/CEO Jeffrey Feld

Staff

Jill Saravis, Community Program Coord. Iris Doenias, Database Manager 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 • Men’s Cultural Alliance • Publication of the Federation Star, Connections 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

The work of the Jewish Federation of Collier County represents both our community and our community’s most generous tradition – to give to others even in the most difficult times.

Please check one: New ☐ Renewal ☐

(PLEASE fill out the form completely and PRINT CLEARLY!)

Name: Spouse or Partner Name, if applicable: Local Address: City: State: Email (very important): Florida phone: Cell or alternate phone: Northern Address: City: State: In Southwest Florida: full-time ☐ part-time ☐ (from

Zip:

)

Membership fee: $56 (US Funds only, Minimum for the year; includes Federation membership.)

NAME BADGES A name badge will be issued to you at no charge if you are a NEW member. I want a replacement name badge: Yes ☐ No ☐ Fee: $8. If you checked yes, submit a total fee is $64. Name as you want it to appear on the name badge Additional donation to the Federation is voluntary and encouraged. Please make your check payable to: Jewish Federation of Collier County and mail with this form to: MCA/ Jewish Federation of Collier County 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Ste. 2201 Naples, FL 34109

I would like to volunteer my services/expertise and would be willing to chair or co-chair a meeting/outing on the following topic or topics: EVENT PARTICIPATION WAIVER By signing below, I accept the terms of this waiver. As a participant in an MCA event, I , acting for myself, my executors, administrators, heirs, next of kin agree as follows: That I waive all rights, claims, cause of action, of any kind whatsoever that I or my heirs, legal representatives may claim to have against either The Jewish Federation of Collier County, and or the Men’s Cultural Alliance of Collier County, their members, agents, servants, and or employees, for any loss, injury, or damage sustained by me while participating in an MCA event. This waiver and release shall be construed broadly, under the Laws of the State of Florida.

Signature For more information: Contact Steve Brazina sbrazina@aol.com

Be a part of MCA’s future By Jeff Margolis

f you are looking for reasons to renew your MCA membership for next season, here are just a few. The planning committee is pleased to announce the following tours for the upcoming season: Naples Botanical Garden, Shy Wolf Sanctuary, Collier County Jail, and Baker Library. There are a number of new activity groups that will also be starting up in the fall. These include Pickleball, Talmudic study group, Breakfast Club, Supper Club and Gin Rummy. Recently, committee member Dick Janger announced an MCA book group that will feature both fiction and non-fiction works selected by the members. This group will be starting up in November. Our master luncheon planner, Meir Kehila, has also been quite busy securing locations for next season’s MCA monthly luncheon meetings. Our “Welcome Back” luncheon is slated for November 16 at the Vasari Country Club. Circle the date now! Other luncheons have been tentatively scheduled for January 14, 2016 at the Club at Pelican Bay and February 11, 2016 at the Club at Olde Cypress. More to follow, so stay tuned. As in past seasons, our Luncheon Meetings will feature presentations by outstanding speakers on topics of interest to our membership. Several of the ongoing activity groups have indicated that they will be continuing beyond the end of season. They include the Sunday morning Biking Group, the Friday Kayaking Group, the Tuesday Walking Group, the Photography Group, the Men’s Discussion Group, the Gratuitous Movie Group, and the Hand and Foot Canasta Group. Please check the weekly MCA eblasts for details of group meeting

times and dates. If your group is continuing throughout the summer, please notify Steve Brazina at sbrazina@aol.com Plan to join your fellow MCA members for the upcoming season. Be a part

of the 300 plus (and growing) members. The new program guides will be available in September. A membership form is conveniently located above. Join or renew today.

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 Thank you! Name: ____________________________________________________ Northern Address: _________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Northern Phone: __________________________________________ Email: ____________________________________________________ Leaving SW Florida: _______________________________________ Returning to SW Florida: ____________________________________

Federation Star May 2015

JEWISH FEDERATION

Read the Federation Star on your tablet! Visit www.issuu.com

A BIG THANK YOU

to the many talented, caring and energetic Federation volunteers who donated the precious gift of their time

in providing wonderful assistance to the Federation staff this season in the office, at events and programs, and in serving on our committees. If you are interested in volunteering with the Federation, contact Jill Saravis at 239.263.4205 or Jill@jewishnaples.org.

Enter “Federation Star” in the search box and click on the cover image of the issue you’d like to read. Then simply scroll through the pages. It’s that simple!

Federation’s Annual Community Celebration Saturday, January 31, 2015

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THIS SEASON’S TWO BIG EVENTS:

* * * * *

Evy Lipp People of T the Book Cultural Event SOLD OU Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Celebrating Jewish Life in Collier County, Israel and the World

Federation Star Published by the Jewish Federation of Collier County serving Naples, Marco Island and the surrounding communities

www.JewishNaples.org INSIDE THIS ISSUE: 4 6 7 14 20 23 23 25 28 30 30 32 34 35

Men’s Cultural Alliance Women’s Cultural Alliance Community Focus Jewish Interest Israel & the Jewish World Tributes Business Directory Commentary Focus on Youth Rabbinical Reflections Synagogues Organizations Community Calendar Community Directory

6 WCA’s “Season” is off to a resounding start!

8 Subject of Israeli best-seller visits Naples

January 2015 - Tevet/Shevat 5775

Federation President

28 Naples BBYO teens at Regional Kallah

later in life. First, he became a scientist and worked in the field of ecology. “I would have preferred studying the humanities, but Jews in the former Soviet Union (f.S.U.) weren’t allowed to be historians or philosophers.” Utilizing his fluency in English, he often acted as a tour guide for American ambassadors and members of congress. He took them to Babi Yar, the infamous ravine in Kiev where, in two September days in 1941, German forces and local collaborators massacred nearly 34,000 Jews. As a rabbi, he says, “I get to combine all of these disciplines, because a rabbi is not only a teacher but also a scientist and a tour guide.” In addition to Judi Palay at Temple

Shalom, another local connection is the Jewish Federation of Collier County, which currently provides a grant to a Jewish preschool in Kiev. The rabbi detailed a wish list of ongoing “pockets of need,” for donations from people he meets on this talking tour who desire their own connection to Jews in Ukraine. “We need money for mundane expenses, like rent for premises and salaries for professionals. We also train lay leaders to conduct Shabbat services and do congregational work. We want to sponsor summer and winter camps that provide education promoting Jewish self-identification.” Noting that in Judaism the primary unit is the family,

continued on page 2

Jeffrey Feld, Steven D. Goldberg, Rabbi Alexander Dukhovny, Judi Palay, Rabbi Adam Miller

The case for giving at the beginning of the year…and for giving more Alvin Becker

Israeli artist to exhibit at Estero Fine Art Show

Vol. 24 #5

Kiev rabbi makes connections By Carole J Greene

eing a journalist provides me opportunities to connect with fascinating people. When Rabbi Alexander Dukhovny visited Naples on November 12, I enjoyed the privilege and pleasure of chatting with him about the challenges and successes of the Progressive Jewish Congregations (i.e. “Reform”) of Kiev, Ukraine. He is chief rabbi of the present 47 (!) congregations, an impressive increase from the eleven existing when he began. As we talked, the word “connections” came up multiple times. Rabbi Dukhovny came to the U.S. to foster connections with American Jews and forge new ones. Temple Shalom’s Judi Palay is one of the former connections and she opened her home to the rabbi, whom she’d met when traveling in Ukraine. When he spoke that evening at Temple Shalom, he likened his role on this whirlwind “talking tour” (if it’s Wednesday, this must be Naples) to fertilizing seeds of Progressive Judaism sown by others in Ukraine. “American rabbis plowed the soil. I’m the fertilizer because I know the culture, the language.” Although he knew all his life that he was a Jew, he came to the rabbinate

number of organizations have as their priority to support the most vulnerable people in our community – children, the aged, and those suffering humanitarian emergencies. Other groups seek to keep Israel safe, strong and prosperous. Still others support Jewish practices and perspectives that enrich our lives and draw us closer to family, friends and community. Finally, some promote advocacy to

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

ensure that our voices are a prominent force in policy decisions. But ONLY the Jewish Federation of Collier County includes all of these priorities in its work as an important force in our community – creating, building, supporting and strengthening much needed groups here and elsewhere. Please see page 3 for a list of organizations and programs that were supported, in part or in whole, by Federation dollars last year. I am confident that you will find one or more groups or programs that strike a responsive chord

in your supportive thoughts. Note that the list is long – but so are the needs. And those needs are immediate and continue to grow. Don’t wait to make a contribution to the Jewish Federation of Collier County until later in 2015. The beginning of the year is a wonderful time to be part of a caring community that gives back. Donate now. Volunteer now. Make a difference now. You’ll have the whole year to feel good about what you’ve done. Happy New Year!

GIVE GIVEYOUR YOURBUSINESS BUSINESS GROWTH GROWTHPOTENTIAL. POTENTIAL. ADVERTISE ADVERTISEWITH WITHTHE Federation Star Contact Jacqui Aizenshtat at 239.777.2889 Robin Leonardi • 941.552.6307 • rleonardi@jfedsrq.org or jacqui1818@gmail.com. www.TheJewishNews.org

You can also read Connections on your tablet. Search for “Collier Connections”.

www.WomensCulturalAlliance.com / 215-820-6697

WOMEN’S CULTURAL ALLIANCE

continued from page 1

Marcia Maloni and Linda Simon probably wouldn’t have experienced a Swamp Walk, “If it weren’t for WCA!”

bond, common interests, common experiences – the perfect ingredients to make friendships grow. ~ Maureen Schaab . . . my life would not be so full and rewarding! ~ Lea Bendes . . . I would not have had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful individuals and to participate in the wide variety of enjoyable and enriching activities. WCA is a blessing. ~ Judy Fant . . . I wouldn’t have been on a catamaran, off Captiva, gazing at the night sky with an astronomer telling us about the stars, planets and vast universe. . . ~ Barbara Suden . . . my life would not be as exciting and my perception of Southwest Florida

Women’s Cultural Alliance 2015-2016 Membership Form

Our membership year runs from September 1, 2015 to August 31, 2016. (Dues for members who joined after March 1 of this Season will also cover the 2015-2016 Season.) This form is for payment by check only. If you wish to pay by credit card, visit www.womensculturalalliance.com and follow the prompts. PLEASE fill out this form completely, PRINTING clearly. Please check: New____ Renewal____ There is NO CHANGE to my contact info from last year______ Name__________________________________________ Spouse/Partner Name__________________ Email (print clearly!)___________________________________________________________________ FL Street Address_____________________________________________________________________ FL City______________________________________________State____________ Zip_____________ Community in which you live_____________________________________________________________ FL Phone_________________________________ Cell _______________________________________ Northern Street Address and City _________________________________________________________ Northern State/Province _________ Zip__________ Northern Phone____________________________ In FL: Full Time______ Part Time______ (from ___________________ to _______________________) Membership Fee: $90.00 (US Funds only) Dues include a $36 donation to Federation

$ 90.00

I am also including a voluntary donation to the Federation in the amount of $_______________________ Total Enclosed $_______________________ Please make your check payable to Jewish Federation of Collier County (JFCC) and mail with this form to: WCA/JFCC, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., #2201, Naples, FL 34109. You must sign the waiver below, and return this completed membership form with your check. (To be included in the WCA Membership Directory, you must return this form with your check by August 1, 2015.) I would like to volunteer for WCA: _____ Chair or Co-Chair a Program ______Be a Speaker or lead a Workshop on these topics:_____________________________________ EVENT PARTICIPATION WAIVER By signing below, I am indicating my acceptance of the waiver. As a participant in a WCA event, I, acting for myself, my executors, administrators, heirs, next of kin agree as follows: I waive all rights, claims, cause of action, of any kind whatsoever that I or my heirs or my legal representatives may claim to have against The Jewish Federation of Collier County, the Women’s Cultural Alliance, or their agents, servants, and or employees, for any loss, injury, or damage sustained by me while participating in a WCA event. This waiver and release shall be construed broadly, under the laws of the State of Florida. Your membership payment is your permission for Women's Cultural Alliance to take and use photographs/videos for appropriate purposes in accordance with WCA's mission.

Signature______________________________________________Date__________________________ Any questions? Contact Nancy Kahn, dearnancykahn@gmail.com.

would be very different. My participation in a wide variety of activities has given me the opportunity to make wonderful friends who encourage me to try different programs. ~ Elaine Soffer . . . I would not have met the tremendous cache of fantastic women who make up WCA. My life is richer for the experience. “My Big Fat Greek Family” has surely grown. We have shared a lot – even a swamp walk! ~ Andrea . . . I might never have had the opportunity to find wonderful new friends and to have the endless exciting and informative experiences that make life in Naples so fabulous and enriching! Kudos to the incredible women who run this organization as well as to Past President Jane Hirsch! ~ Nina Iser . . . and WCA’s very generous support, JFCS of Southwest Florida would not be able to support so many individuals and families with emotional, social and financial needs in our community. ~ Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, President/CEO, JFCS of Southwest Florida . . . I would have a hole in my intellectual and cultural stimuli and inspirations. ~ Dina Shein . . . Naples would not feel like home. ~ Phyllis Strome Don’t you want to reap the benefits of being a member of WCA? You can – by joining WCA or by renewing your membership today. After seven years, WCA is raising its annual membership dues to $90 in order to better serve our increasing number of members and remain fiscally responsible. The additional revenue will be used to expand our programming opportunities and to secure larger venues so that more members are able to participate in WCA programs. To join WCA or to renew your membership, you may complete the WCA Membership Form on this page and mail it with your check to the Jewish Federation of Collier County or you may complete the Membership Form online and pay by credit card. Visit www.wom ensculturalalliance.com and click on the Membership Form link. You will be glad you did!

G p

WCA now has a membership gift card. Give the gift of membership in WCA to a friend, relative or as a hostess gift for someone who is not yet a member. For more information, please contact Linda Simon, WCA Membership Chair, at lgsimon2947@yahoo.com.

COMMUNITY FOCUS HOLOCAUST MUSEUM & ED CTR OF SWFL

May 2015 Federation Star

www.holocaustmuseumswfl.org / 239-263-9200

Holocaust Museum update Amy Snyder Executive Director

he Museum’s Education Department has had a very busy year. The total number of in-school programs and field trips to the Museum increased over previous years. Programs reached students from grades K-12 in public, private and home schools in a five-county area of Southwest Florida. College and university-level students also participated. This was the Museum’s second year as part of the -afterschool program in Immokalee – sthe GPS/Out of School Time program. -Working with elementary and middle school children, the educators introduced the subject of World War II, and the older children were able to hear Holocaust survivors talk about their

experiences during the war. During May and June, the Museum will host a special Student Portrait display in conjunction with the “Do the Right Thing” program. The program is co-sponsored by the City of Naples and the Naples Police Department. A special end-of-year reception will be held at the Museum, supported by the Museum and the Boxcar Foundation. The students featured have been nominated to receive recognition for their courageous or selfless actions on behalf of someone else. Young people in elementary, middle and high schools are eligible. Their actions range from finding and turning in to an authority money or valuable lost property, reacting quickly in an emergency situation, standing up for someone being ridiculed, raising funds for charity, collecting and delivering toys to hospitalized children, and volunteering in church or community organizations. In each instance, the student took the initiative out of compassion to help someone else in

GenShoah SWFL is busy planning programs

sBy Ida Margolis

the public performance rights for all of the films that we present. A special thanks to those who made donations so that we can secure film rights for what we hope will be another number of truly important and interesting films. We have had many great suggestions for programs and soon we will be announcing the GenShoah programs and special events for the 2015-2016 season which will begin in October. Anyone who is interested in the mission of GenShoah Southwest Florida, – which currently is: the promotion of Holocaust education, preservation of memories of the Holocaust, connection of the Second Generation with one another, and support of the Holocaust Museum & Education Center of Southwest Florida – is welcome at all GenShoah meetings and events. p For more information about GenShoah SWFL, to suggest future program ideas to the d steering committee, or d to receive GenShoah emails, contact me at ida. A Elliot Katz with GenShoah members Shirley Besikof and Felicia Anchor, margolis2@gmail.com and GenShoah Chair Ida Margolis or 239.963.9347. r e e

enShoah, like many groups here in Southwest Florida, is required to plan its programs months in advance. As we start planning t for next season, I was reflecting on how many excellent presenters and events we had this season, as well as how very d pleased I was with the support we had from the community for our programs, l especially the “One Book Southwest . Florida.” , Without our program chair, Steve Brazina, and all of our presenters and participants, and those who were kind enough to make donations to GenShoah, we would have been unable to hold our meetings, present the fine programs that we have had, or screen films. Steve Brazina has worked very hard to obtain n r

e !

need. This is the lesson all our education programs seek to impart to the students we serve – you have the ability make a positive impact in your daily life. At our recent Triumph event, Naples High School 9 th grader Emily Hugan spoke about Holocaust rescuer Irena Sendler, and how Irena is a role model for today’s students. Irena selflessly stood up in a situation demand-

Emily Hugan presenting her essay (photo courtesy Charlie McDonald Photography)

ing action, and in doing the right thing, had an enormous impact on those she was able to help. The students honored by “Do the Right Thing” have also impacted the people they have helped, from returning Irena Sendler money to someone in financially-challenged circumstances, to pushing a car out of a flooded road, to recognizing someone experiencing a medical emergency and calling for help. Seventy years ago this month, World War II was drawing to a close in Europe, and gearing up for a final push in the Pacific Theatre. The young soldiers fighting the Nazis and Axis powers in World War II certainly were courageous and selfless, far too many making the ultimate sacrifice for their countries. They “did the right thing” and also stand as role models for us today. We thank all our military personnel for their dedicated service.

For a continuously updated community calendar, visit www.jewishnaples.org. Center for Judaic, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies Dedicated to educating all sectors of society about Jewish civilization, the Holocaust, and genocide through: • scholarship • outreach • inquiry • sharing knowledge • preserving the record • helping teachers • encouraging students

Visit www.fgcu.edu/hc/ Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director

Shalom Gardens

at Palm Royale Cemetery

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SIGN UP FOR THE FEDERATION’S WEEKLY COMMUNITY eNEWSLETTER! Get the latest information on upcoming community events and cultural activities, news from Israel and lots more.

Send an email to info@jewishnaples.org.

Open 7 days a week Sunday business hours

GenShoah Program Chair Steve Brazina with Helene Gaillet de Neergaard, author of the recently published I Was a War Child: WW II Memoir of a Little French Catholic Girl, who was the featured speaker for GenShoah on Sunday, March 15 at the Holocaust Museum

Teresa Shepp Family Service Counselor

6780 Vanderbilt Beach Road • Naples

239.354.5330

www.palmroyale.net

Federation Star May 2015

COMMUNITY FOCUS

JFCS and tikkun olam

By David W. Rutstein, JFCS Board Chair, and Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, President/CEO

rom time to time, we have been asked about the origin of our JFCS board’s decision – about three years ago – to become a nonsectarian organization. The answer is straightforward. We were honoring the Jewish tradition of tikkun olam (repair the world). We are not alone. Every one of the 125 Jewish Family Service agencies in North America has made the same decision in order to serve their entire communities. Of course, they, like us, recognize and celebrate our Jewish origin and identity. Like us, they are deeply committed to serving all of the social service needs of all Jewish people in their communities. That’s why we exist. Like us, they receive very generous support from Jewish people. But because they are non-sectarian, they also

welcome the time, talent and treasure of those in the broader community. We are doing the same. So that we might become visible to the entire Naples community, our board recently approved the rebranding of our senior center to the “Naples Senior Center, A Program of JFCS,” to be used where it is appropriate. The Naples Senior Center is the most prominent and visible activity of JFCS. Contrasted with the majority of our core services, such as mental health counseling, case management and financial assistance, which are highly confidential, the more than 600 senior center members are eager to share stories of their experiences at art classes, computer classes, cards and mah jongg, tai chi and so much more. Most significantly, when our board approved rebranding

the Naples Senior Center, they also restated that the official name of the agency, JFCS of Southwest Florida, will not be, and should not be changed. We strongly believe that the approach taken throughout North

The Naples Jewish Caring Support Group

Next meetings: Mondays, May 11 & 25 10:30 a.m. to noon at JFCS, 5025 Castello Road, Naples

Call Donna Levy at 239.325.4444 for more information.

Announcing The Sunﬂower as the next “One Book Southwest Florida” selection

he Sunﬂower: On the Possibilities and Limits of Forgiveness by Simon Wiesenthal has been selected as the “One Book Southwest Florida” selection for the 201516 season. The selection of this world-famous book follows the highly successful selection of Gertruda’s Oath by Ram Oren for the inaugural “One Book Southwest Florida” program last season. This reading program is based on the very popular “One Book One Community” programs that have been done throughout the U.S. The goal of these programs is to engage the community in dialogue, to promote understanding, and to serve as a spring-

board for discussion of important topics. The Sunﬂower has had many printings and has been translated into numerous languages. It has been used in many university ethics classes and has been discussed in schools and community groups throughout the world. This important book, which is divided into Wiesenthal’s personal experience during the Holocaust and a collection of reactions to Wiesenthal’s actions, challenges people to define their beliefs about justice, compassion and human responsibility. GenShoah of Southwest Florida,

Vision 20/20 Looking Back/Looking Forward JMOF-FIU 20th Anniversary Exhibition On view through October 25, 2015

America and here has proved to be an effective way to carry forth our JewishF tradition of tikkun olam by working towards a better community and a better society.

in conjunction with the Collier County Public Library and the Holocaust Museum & Education Center of Southwest Florida, will be sponsoring “One Book Southwest Florida.” There will be many book discussions at local libraries and it is hoped that, once again, a wide range of local organizations throughout Southwest

Florida will become involved in this program. In addition to a culminating event in January, there will be a variety of book-related activities that will be presented beginning in October, with specific dates forthcoming. For more information, email onebookswfl@ icloud.com.

Hadassah Book Club concludes season with high praise for Raquela

he Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah Non-Fiction Book Club has just concluded a very successful season. Members suggested book choices, then four books were selected and discussed monthly at a member’s home. The books End of Your Life Book Club, The Lady in Gold and The Invisible Thread all led to lively discussions. However, the last selection, Raquela: A Woman of Israel by Ruth Gruber, which was suggested by Chapter President Lynn Weiner, garnered the highest acclaim. Every member of the group spoke enthusiastically and with highest praise

about the biography of Raquela Prywes, an amazing woman whose life mirrored the history of Israel from 1929 to 1976. This gripping true story followed Raquela from her childhood in Jerusalem to becoming the top student at Hadassah-Henrietta Szold School of Nursing, to her struggles as a midwife in Athlit detention camp and Cyprus, and becoming a wife and mother. The entire group felt that this is such an important, inspirational and informative book, that everyone should read it, recommend it to book clubs, friends and relatives, and consider giving copies to children and grandchildren.

Floridian Jewish families have played an integral part in every area of the development of the Sunshine State, from the pioneers who settled here more than 250 years ago, to contemporary movers and shakers. In honor of our 20th Anniversary, Vision 20/20 provides a glimpse into our collection of more than 100,000 items, documenting the history makers of yesterday to those of today.

Alex Gruss, 1957, Buenos Aires, Argentina Six Days of Creation, 2013 Wood, mother of pearl, copper, ink, 18" x 38"

Formed from the Collections of the Jewish Museum of Florida, originated by Marcia Jo Zerivitz, Founding Executive Director.

On view through October 25, 2015 The Seventh Day: Revisiting Shabbat 2-for-1 admission with this ad

FedStar

301 Washington Avenue Miami Beach, FL 33139

305.672.5044 • jewishmuseum.com info@jewishmuseum.com Open Tuesday-Sunday 10am - 5pm Except Holidays

The Museum is supported by individual contributions, foundations, memberships and grants from the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, the Miami-Dade County Tourist Development Council, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners and the City of Miami Beach, Cultural Affairs Program, Cultural Arts Council.

Hadassah Book Club members

ADL Fla. welcomes new Director of Development

he Anti-Defamation League is formation of tax-exempt status, dayproud to announce that Marc D. to-day operations, fundraising and tax Melamed has filled the position implications. of Director of Development M r. M e l a m e d h a s for the Florida Region. professional experience As an attorney, develthat includes philanthroopment executive, and forpy and estate planning mer financial advisor, Mr. & charitable giving. His Melamed has made a caprior experiences helped reer out of helping people him gain a comprehensive and organizations meet their 360-degree approach to personal and philanthropic philanthropy. goals. Mr. Melamed has deMr. Melamed has helped grees from the University Marc D. Melamed hundreds of non-profit orof Detroit Mercy School ganizations with their planned giving, of Law and the Univ. of Michigan.

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COMMUNITY FOCUS

Temple Shalom events open to the community

n hFor more information on these events, call 239.455.3030. g orah Talk and heritage of the Jewish people. The Join us the first Shabbat morning service takes place on Sunday, May 17 of the month for a volunteer-led at 10:00 a.m. discussion of the week’s Torah portion. Sisterhood Book Bag On May 2, the portion is Acharei Mot/ On Thursday, May 21 at 1:30 p.m., Kedoshim. There will be a light breakMarti Gross will facilitate a discussion fast at 8:15 a.m. with discussion to folof Invisible City by Julia Dahl. A relow at 8:30 a.m. There is no charge and porter, the daughter of a Hasidic Jewish all are welcome. woman, who abandoned her and her Service of Conﬁrmation Christian father, is assigned to report The congregation of Temple Shalom on a murder in the Hasidic community cordially invites you to attend a Serwhere her mother still lives. It is clear vice of Confirmation for the year 5775 she is not welcome and everyone she when our tenth-grade children will meets has a secret to keep. confirm their commitment to the faith

May 2015 Federation Star

Honorable Menschen Murray Hendel A sign with a photo of Murray Hendel has been placed along the concrete path behind a group of condominiums off Gulf Shore Boulevard, designating the one-mile beach walk as “Murray’s Mile.” Michael Reagan, former Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce CEO, said, “The recent tributes paid to Murray Hendel by the Naples City Council, the Collier County Board of Commissioners, and the Gulf Shore Condo Association only stand on the shoulders of the many others he justifiably earned over the years.”

JNF honors Myra and Dr. Morton Friedman

ore than 200 Jewish National Fund (JNF) supporters gathered at TwinEagles Country Club on the evening of Thursday, March 26 for JNF’s annual Naples Tree of gLife™ Award Dinner. y Local philanthropists Myra and Dr. eMorton Friedman were awarded JNF’s h e @

esteemed Tree of Life™ Award. Guests heard remarks from Rebecca ShimoniStoil, Washington Correspondent for The Times of Israel. Proceeds from the Naples Tree of Life™ Award Dinner will benefit JNF’s important work in Accessibility and Therapeutic Services through Aleh Negev-Nahalat Eran, a 25-acre, state-of-the-art rehabilitative village in Israel’s Negev. For more information on connecting with JNF in the Naples area, please contact Beth Glickman Morris at bmorris@ jnf.org or 727.536.5263.

Murray Hendel and the sign that is now posted on the one-mile beach walk in Park Shore (photo by Bob Raymond)

Honorable Menschen is a new feature in the Federation Star. To nominate a member of our Jewish community to be featured in an Honorable Menschen block, please send the details to fedstar18@gmail.com. Photos are preferred, but not necessary. Myra and Dr. Morton Friedman

Nancy and Hank Greenberg, JNF board members

The next meeting of the Jewish Genealogy SIG (Shared Interest Group) at the Jewish Federation of Collier County oﬃces (2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 2201, Naples) is on Tuesday, May 12 at 10:00 a.m. Seating is limited. RSVP to genresearch13@yahoo.com. You will receive an acknowledgement that you have a reservation. Bring a notebook and pen with you to the meeting.

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www.facebook.com/ facebook.com/jfedsrq JewishFederationofCollierCounty Temple Shalom Si sterhood Ju dai ca Shop Year End Sale FRIDAY, MAY 1st THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 17th LAST DAY SHOP IS OPEN UNTIL SEPTEMBER EXCEPT BY APPOINTMENT

30% OFF All Passover Merchandise 25% OFF All Other Items In Stock Credit Cards Accepted Store hours: Sundays 9:30AM to 12:15PM Monday - Friday 10:00AM to 12:30PM Wednesday , May 6th 4:00PM to 6:00PM

BROWNSTEIN JUDAICA GIFT SHOP AT JCMI Looking for the perfect gift? Choose from our many items: Mezuzahs Menorahs Travel bags Jewelry Gifts for pets Novelty aprons Designer Hand Bags Silk and Handmade Kippot Mah Jongg Jewelry, Cards & Supplies

991 Winterberry Drive Marco Island (239) 642-0800 Hours: Monday - Friday: 9:30 - 1:30 Friday Evening: Before & After Shabbat Service

Federation Star May 2015

JEWISH INTEREST

Milk and honey and plenty of greenery

By Jill Saravis

his month, celebrating Shavuot, which commemorates the giving of the Torah to the Jews, including the laws of kashrut (kosher dietary laws, telling Jews what can and cannot be eaten and in which combination), provides an opportunity to indulge in rich, creamy dairy dishes. A possible explanation of our enjoyment of dairy dishes has to do with Shir HaShirim Jill Saravis (the Song of Songs), “milk and honey are under your tongue,” as the Torah, like the milk, sustains us. A dairy meal on Shavuot celebrates the nourishing quality of the Torah. Traditionally, that means we have one meat meal and one dairy meal, and these meals can be special without going way over the top. An example would be

to pair a nice salmon entrée with your decadent cheesecake dessert. You can even add in a healthy vegetable soufflé, using cottage cheese as a substitute for heavy cream. I already gave you my super quick and easy recipe for a blintz casserole with blueberry sauce, which can be paired with grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives and dates for Chag haBikkuri, “The Holiday of First Fruits,” and challah. For those of you who do not have the recipe and want it, call me at 239.263.4205 and I will be happy to send it to you. Here is an extremely easy yet elegant version of Baked Salmon, especially for those of you who have not tried making salmon in your own kitchen. It also takes a short amount of time to prepare and cook, leaving you more time to enjoy company and keeping the home cool. Be sure to garnish with plenty of fresh parsley and dill to

symbolize when the Torah was given – the mountain bloomed with greenery and flowers – and don’t forget to brew a big pot of coffee for an evening of Torah studying. Baked Salmon • Fresh salmon fillet, 2 pounds (about 8 ounces per person, serving four) • Unsalted butter • Kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste • 1/8 teaspoon ground coriander • A bunch each of fresh dill and pars-

B • 

 

ley; about 1 tbsp roughly chopped,E reserving the rest for garnish f Fresh lemon, sliced (you can havei another one for serving wedges) w Pat salmon dry and place in ai greased (butter or olive oil) 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish (If you are using a filet with the skin on, place the skin side down. If it is a very large piece, you can use a baking sheet with parchment paper.) Brush with butter. Sprinkle with kosher salt, pepper, ground coriander, chopped fresh dill and parsley.  Bake, uncovered, at 425° for 20-25 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.  Place on a platter and garnish with fresh lemon slices, parley and dill.

The Jews of India and their music By Arlene Stolnitz

ome of the oldest living Jewish Indian Jewry which has been firmly communities in the world whose rooted in India for centuries. roots go back to Biblical times One of the chief proponents of exist in India. The Jews in Bombay, the history and music of the Jews of Calcutta is Rahel Musleah. A frequent Calcutta and Cochin used music as a way of expressing their faith, spirit, and lecturer at the North American Jewhope of a return ish Choral Festival, Rahel was born in Calcutta to a family that lived in India to Israel. Today, only about 4,000 since 1820 and traces its roots to 17th Jews live in Incentury Baghdad. dia, most havHer CD, Hodu: Jewish Rhythms ing resettled in from Baghdad to India, is a compilaIsrael, the U.S., tion of songs for Shabbat and holidays England, Austrafeaturing a blend of ancient texts, aulia and Canada. thentic melodies and contemporary The majority rhythms often sung without musical Arlene Stolnitz of Jews in India accompaniment. According to Musleah, ‘Hodu,’ in Hebrew, means both lived among three distinct communi‘India’ and ‘Praise God!’ – “an approties: the Bene Israel of Bombay (now priate double entendre for a commuMumbai), the Baghdadi Jews who setnity that thrived in the most benevolent tled in Bombay and Calcutta, and the of diasporas.” Jews of Cochin, in southern India. OthWORLD CLASS The songs, called pizmonim or er groups include the Bene Menashe ENTERTAINMENT & LIGHTING shbahot, are sung in Hebrew with texts and Bene Ephraim. Their stories point~ SOUND written by famous medieval poets from to the historicalSHOW and cultural depth of & DANCE PARTY BANDS

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Simcha (Israeli)

the Golden Age of Spain and lesser known poets of the Middle East. “Tsur Mishelo” and “Yah Ribon” are examples of pizmonim. In Cochin, Jewish women have sung Jewish songs both in Hebrew and in Malayalam, the language of Kerala, their ancient homeland. Located on the tropical southwest coast of India, Cochini Jews are halakhically observant, yet sing together with men in synagogue at Shabbat family gatherings and weddings as well as communitywide events. It was not their custom to prevent men from hearing women’s voices in song. Girls were well educated, in mixed schools with boys, learning at an early age to read and chant from the Torah. Often it was a grandmother or “aunty” who coached young boys on their Haftorah and Torah portions. Cochini women had an extensive repertoire of Malayalam-language Jewish folksongs. These were generally sung without instrumental accompaniment at public gatherings during life cycle and holiday celebrations. Often women sang at women’s bridal parties as well as mixed gatherings. Most of the songs were composed anonymously. These Jewish folksongs in the Kerala style were sung in royal wedding processions with brides clad in gold and colorful flowers in their hair. One song tells of an ancestor who arrived by sea from Jerusalem in a wooden ship carrying materials for the building of a grand synagogue. Other songs are Biblical narratives with a distinct South Indian flavor. Some are 20th century Zionist songs in Malayalam preparing Cochin Jews for Aliyah. And other Zionist songs of today are set to mid-20th century Indian cinema tunes

and political chants. The texts of about 300 Malayalam Jewish songs have been preserved and are now housed in the Ben-Zvi Institute in Jerusalem. Some are over a hundred years old and many are no longer performed or even remembered. They were saved by women who passed them from generation to generation in handwritten notebooks. The thirty-two notebooks, which have been photocopied, are a testament to the literacy level of women in this region of India and their relatively high status within the community. Anna Schultz, Stanford University ethnomusicologist, is researching devotional music of the Bene Israel. She is exploring a form of Indian folk music called kirtan that praises the divine. The Bene Israel used kirtan to teach women and children about Jewish scriptures. The kirtankars (performers of kirtan) used this method of persuasive singing and storytelling to instill in its listeners a devotion to the nation. Her research examines the role kirtan played in establishing Jewish identity in India and later Israel. Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sarasota Jewish Chorale, has sung in choral groups for over 25 years. A retired educator from Rochester, New York, and a member of Venice’s Exsultate!, she is a graduate of the Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s Leadership Institute. Her interest in choral music has led to this series of articles on Jewish Folk Music in the Diaspora.

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May 2015 Federation Star

JEWISH INTEREST

Stars of David

By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist 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. Working the Diamond: JASON MARQUIS, 36, starting Jewish Baseball Players pitcher, Cincinnati Reds. The muchThe following Jewish players were on traveled Marquis broke into the maa major league roster as of opening day jors in 2000. He’s had some very good (April 6). All the players listed below seasons, but 2014 wasn’t one of them: have at least one Jewish parent and were JOC PEDERSON, 22, outfielder, raised either Jewish or secular. Players: L.A. Dodgers. Great things are expectRYAN BRAUN, 31, outfielder, Miled from Pederson, who was called up waukee Brewers. Braun was named by the Dodgers last September after a rookie-of-the-year in 2007, the only stellar minor league season. He played Jewish player ever to win this award. for Israel in the 2012 World Baseball He stole 30 bases and hit 30 homers Classic qualifiers; KEVIN PILLAR, in two seasons (2011, 2012). He had a 26, outfielder, Toronto Blue Jays. This so/so season in 2014 after being susformer bar mitzvah boy has been shutpended for 65 games in 2013 for violatling between the big club and the tion of the MLB drug policy. He had minors since mid-2013; DANNY VAhand surgery in the off-season and this LENCIA, 30, third base, Toronto. Like season will tell us whether the surgery Pillar, the much-traveled Valencia had will return him to top form; CRAIG a bar mitzvah. He had a good season BRESLOW, 34, reliever, Boston Red with two clubs in 2014. He was born in Sox. Like Braun, 2015 will be a pivotal Miami and was raised in Boca Raton. season for Breslow. He missed part of Celebs Behaving Badly 2014 due to injuries and his pitching Or Wanting To quality was way below his career averBILLY CRYSTAL, 66, writing for the age. The Sox signed him to a one-year March issue of the AARP Bulletin, redeal off-season, clearly making this his counts he met legendary CBS newsman “test” year. He’s an honors Yale grad Walter Cronkite while working as a from a religious home; IKE DAVIS, theater usher in the late 1960s. Excited 28, first base, Oakland As. Davis broke to see the famous man, Crystal rushed into the majors with the Mets in 2010 up to his seat and asked Cronkite if he and remained with them until early could do anything for him. “Uncle,” 2014, when he went to Pittsburgh. He Walter replied, “Well, you could start was traded to the As in the off-season. by taking that f*@&ing flashlight out He has a lot of power, but suffers of my face.” Twenty years later, Crysfrom anemic batting streaks; SCOTT tal met Cronkite at another event and FELDMAN, 32, starting pitcher, reminded him of the incident. Cronkite Houston Astros. A ten-year veteran, replied, “That was you? I’ve felt bad Feldman had a good season in 2014, about that for years!” with a career best ERA; SAM FULD, In a recent San Francisco stage in33, outfielder, Oakland As. He’s a vetterview, Dick Cavett prefaced a JACK eran of a lot of teams, including TamBENNY story by noting that Benny pa Want Bay (2011-13); IAN KINSLER, was perhaps the nicest man in show to receive the Federation Star second base, Detroit Tigers. Named business: “He was kind to everyone, in your boxteam every several times tomail the all-star (in- month? loyal to old friends, and he paid his cluding 2014), Kinsler has speed and writers very well.” Then Cavett reCall: 239.263.4205 power; RYAN LAVARNWAY, 27, called how he was a staff writer for the Email: catcher, Baltimore iris@jewishnaples.org Orioles. He’s been Tonight Show in the early 1960s and shuttling between the majors and miBenny was acommitted guest. They chanced to Subscriptions are free, thanks to generous readers, advertisers nors since up in of 2011 by County. ride down on the same elevator, which and the being Jewishcalled Federation Collier Boston. He’s a Yale grad like Breslow; was supposed to be for celebs and staff

Interested in Your Family’s History? Ten years of doing a Jewish celebrities column has turned Nate Bloom (see column at left) 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 nteibloom@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. only, but some audience members slipped on it. These “regular folks” pestered Benny with stupid questions like, “Are you really cheap?” and [seriously asked] “Do you still have a bank vault in your basement?” Benny politely answered until the elevator stopped and emptied. Cavett then asked Benny, “You must have heard these stupid questions a million times. Don’t you hate them?” Benny said, “Yeah, sometimes I do want to tell them to go f*@& themselves.” (If the super-nice Benny was oft tempted to “lose it,” you can understand why the normally nice Cronkite lost his temper.) Netflix Florida Gothic The Netflix series Bloodline premiered

on March 20 and per its practice, the whole first season was released at once. Here’s the publicity release description: “The Rayburns [are] a contemporary American family who are hard-working pillars of their Florida community. But when black sheep and eldest son Danny (Ben Mendelsohn) comes home for the 45th anniversary of his parents’ hotel, he threatens to expose the Rayburns’ dark secrets and shameful past.” Mendelsohn, an Australian, has just one Jewish grand – father’s father. His wife, however, is fairly famous English Jewish journalist and screenwriter EMMA FORREST, 38, and they have a child. The series was co-created by DANIEL ZELMAN, 47, who was long married to DEBRA MESSING, 46.

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Federation Star May 2015

JEWISH INTEREST

An interview with Yossi Klein Halevi By Philip K. Jason, Special to the Federation Star

ossi Klein Halevi is a senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute, a member of the Institute’s iEngage Project, co-director of the Institute’s Muslim Leadership Initiative, and a former contributing editor to The New Republic. His first book, Memoirs of a Jewish Extremist, was published in 1995. In 2001 he published At the Entrance to the Garden of Eden: A Jew’s Search for God with Christians and Muslims in the Holy Land. A Hebrew version of that book was Phil Jason published in 2006 by the Shalom Hartman Institute. Yossi is a frequent contributor to the op-ed pages of leading North American newspapers. He is active in reconciliation efforts between Muslims and Jews, and serves as Chairman of Open House, an Arab-Jewish coexistence center in the town of Ramle, near Tel Aviv. Yossi’s latest book, Like Dreamers: The Israeli Paratroopers Who Reunited Jerusalem and Divided a Nation, won the Jewish Book Council’s Everett Family Foundation Jewish Book of the Year Award for 2013. PKJ: In the course of your research and interviews for Like Dreamers, what were your most surprising discoveries? YKH: I was constantly amazed at the intensity of life in Israel, from the very founding of the state. I kept wondering how one small country could contain so much history. One of the characters in the book, Arik Achmon, participated in every one of Israel’s wars, beginning in 1948. Where

else does life make such demands on the Soviet Union. The great the citizens of a nation? Sometimes it exception was the pioneering seemed to me as if we were trying to movement, Hashomer Hatcompensate for centuries of Jewish life zair, which, amazingly, conwithout sovereignty by cramming as tinued to feel an emotional much experience into our national life connection to the Soviet as possible. Union until the Six-Day War I was struck too by the manic de– despite the overwhelmpressive nature of the Israeli experiing evidence at the time that ence. In 1967 we were euphoric with the Soviet Union was persecuting its victory; in 1973, only six years later, Jews. Some Israelis on the right still we were in despair. And yet, militarily occasionally evoke that self-deception at least, the Yom Kippur War was in by Hashomer Hatzair as an example some senses more impressive than the of the delusions of the left generally. Six-Day War. During the Oslo process of the 1990s, One pattern emerged in the postAriel Sharon cynically noted that, just 67 story of Israel that has particular as part of the left once idolized Stalin relevance today, and that is this: When as a man of peace, so now did the left Israelis feel that the international comembrace Arafat as a man of peace. In munity is against them, they retreat Israel, historical memories and traumas into hardline positions. When they feel never entirely disappear. more accepted, they are ready to take PKJ: In Like Dreamers, you porisks for peace. The Oslo process was sition yourself as a centrist, someone launched in an atmosphere of growwho is obligated to listen to both (or ing acceptance of Israel, after the fall all) sides – perhaps more than listen. of the Soviet Union Has this stance helped and the first Gulf War. you gain you access as a By contrast, the settlejournalist? ment movement beYKH: Being open to came mainstream in hearing opposing voices the weeks following gave me emotional acthe 1975 UN Zionismcess – allowed me to Racism resolution. Isempathize with opposraelis pushed back by ing camps. I moved to embracing the settlers. Israel at the beginning PKJ: The betrayof the first Lebanon War al by Mother Russia in 1982, when Israelis Yossi Klein Halevi through its encourwere literally shouting at agement and support of Egypt’s each other on the streets. That was the attack(s) on Israel seemed to be a first time that war had failed to unite turning point for many secular Zithe country – worse, the war itself was onists. Do the ramiﬁcations of this dividing us. As a new immigrant I had betrayal continue to influence Israeli two choices. I could either choose a politics and culture? camp, or learn to listen. I chose the secYKH: By 1967, most Israelis, cerond option and forced myself to listen tainly of the moderate left, had long deeply to what all of Israel’s political since abandoned their illusions about and cultural and ethnic groups were really saying. What were the fears of left and right? The visions of Israel being expressed by secularists and religious Zionists and ultra-Orthodox and Arab Israelis? I not only tried to become absorbed into Israeli society, but to absorb Israel, in all its complexity, into my being. That’s how I became an Israeli. PKJ: I believe it was Jabotinsky who most vigorously argued that social democracy was not and would not be a blessing for Jewish survival. Anti-Semitism would always trump ideological purity. Has that writerthinker-politician been an influence on your thinking? YKH: I grew up in the Betar youth movement founded by Jabotinsky. In Betar we called him “Rosh Betar,” head of Betar, a title reserved only for him. So yes, love for Jabotinsky goes deep in me. As for the ideological influence, I support territorial compromise, and Jabotinsky of course was a territorial maximalist. Though I’m not sure that Jabotinsky himself would be a maximalist today. He envisioned solutions for a different time. He was trying to save Europe’s Jews, and Israel was not yet a sovereign state. Today we Many people continue to suffer unnecessarily face threats that Jabotinsky couldn’t from Heel Pain, Sore Bunions, Neuromas, imagine. It’s interesting to go back to the Numb or Burning feet when help great Jabotinsky-Ben-Gurion debates is just around the corner. of the 1930s. Each of them won a different argument. Ben-Gurion won the argument over partition. But Jabotinsky won the argument over what he called the “iron wall” – the need for North Naples Physicians Regional a powerful military presence against 9955 Tamiami Trail N. Suite 1 6101 Pine Ridge Rd. 3rd Floor those who would destroy us. Today we Naples, FL 34108 Naples, FL 34119

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have a literal wall – I see it from my porch on the edge of Jerusalem, bordering the West Bank. For me, what endures as an example is Jabotinsky’s courage, his willingness to go against the conventional wisdom and try to save Europe’s Jews. He was the only Jewish leader, the only Zionist leader in the ’30s, to foresee a coming catastrophe and try to mobilize the Jewish world. He failed of course, and died of a heart attack in 1940. PKJ: You have taken a close look at Israel’s wars, especially the SixDay (1967) War, and explored how the conduct and resolution of those wars affected the course of Israel’s identity, political and otherwise. In one way or another, this perennially stressed nation ﬁnds ways of reinventing and reimagining itself – sometimes losing its memory in the process. From your own experiences, and from those paratroopers and others whose lives you have researched, what do you see is the most likely direction for the future? YKH: The question that became increasingly urgent for me as I was writing Like Dreamers is: Where will the next great messianic Jewish dream come from? The story that the book tells is not only about the divide between left and right but about the fate of Israel’s great dreams. Two utopian dreams successively defined Israel. The first was the kibbutz movement, the dream of an egalitarian Israel that would be a laboratory for creating the world’s purest democratic communism. Then came the settlement movement, which believed that the messianic era was upon us. Each of those movements helped shape Israel as we know it – from the country’s borders to the quality of its army. In the end though, both failed to win the trust of mainstream Israel. We’ve paid a price for the utopian delusions of the Jews. But we’ve also been tremendously energized by these two utopian movements. This is the first time in the history of the state – the history of Zionism – when there is no utopian avant-garde trying to lead the nation. The result is a growing sense of drift among Israelis. My sense – maybe it’s only a hope – is that the next great outbreak of utopian energy in Israeli society will be spiritual, not political, and will focus on creating the next phase of Judaism. What kind of Judaism will we live as a sovereign people in its land? So far, we’ve mostly imported forms of Judaism that emerged under conditions of a persecuted, ghettoized minority. We need forms of Judaism that are worthy of the profound transformation in Jewish life we’ve experienced over the last two centuries, and especially since the creation of Israel. PKJ: In Memoirs, you write: “To be an American Jew meant being inherently inauthentic, a spectator to Jewish history.” This outlook grows, in part, out of your experience while in Israel during the Yom Kippur War. Do you mean to root this view-

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JEWISH INTEREST Yossi Klein Halevi...continued from previous page

point in that time, or do you feel that it is a general truth? Is there no Jewish history unfolding in the Diaspora? YKH: That was definitely a reflection of my thinking as a young American Jew. It is certainly not my thinking today. Ironically, I feel more connected to American Jews since becoming an Israeli than I did growing up in America. My American Jewish exyperience was highly peculiar. I grew up -in Borough Park, in a survivor community, on the edges of American Jewish -life. I had a great deal of anger against -American Jewry. My father, a survivor lfrom Hungary, blamed American Jews .for not trying to rescue European Jewyry, and I turned his anger into political aalienation. That’s why I joined Betar, eand then the Jewish Defense League. I deliberately positioned myself on the fringes of American Jewry. Since moving to Israel, I’ve gotten to know American Jewry far better than I knew it when I was actually living in America. I spend a good deal of time lecturing about Israel in Jewnish communities and I’ve come to love -and respect American Jewry. Our genferation is blessed with two unimaginafble Jewish options. The first is to live nin a sovereign Jewish state, where we -can determine the nature of our public space. The second is to live in the most -free and accepted Diaspora in history, twhere Jews are invited to help shape the public space of the most powerful ecountry in the world. Our great-grandparents would have been amazed if lonly one of those options had emerged. mWe are overwhelmed with riches. PKJ: Memoirs does not treat k your time at Northwestern University’s School of Journalism. Is that e absence a statement? n YKH: Not at all. I recently spoke at . Northwestern’s Medill School of Jour, nalism – the fi rst time I’d been back t gsince graduating in 1978. I learned how -to become a journalist there; it was the tmost important educational experience eof my life. The reason I didn’t write about f Medill was because I didn’t see the l book as an autobiography, but a memeoir. The difference between the two tforms is that an autobiography is about a life, while a memoir is about an naspect of one’s life. Memoirs of a oJewish Extremist tells the story about ehow a Jew from Borough Park, from eBetar and the JDL, came to make his epeace with the world. There’s a lot about my life growing up that I left out eof Memoirs because I didn’t see how it ffit into the book’s theme. PKJ: Near the end of Memoirs, you say that you delayed making Alie -yah to Israel until you felt you had eestablished yourself as a journalist. sYou mention placing an article on .the JDL in the Village Voice. How s , f e -

e e

else did you go about establishing yourself? YKH: Well, one way was studying at Medill. I also had a dream of publishing my own Jewish newspaper, and did that before leaving for Israel. The paper was called New Jewish Times, and it was a self-conscious attempt to give voice to the Jewish fringes, all those who felt disaffected from the established Jewish community. It was a kind of precursor of Heeb and some of the other alternative Jewish media that exist today. PKJ: What are your responsibilities to / beneﬁts from your position as a senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute? YKH: I’m a member of the Institute’s iEngage, which creates a curriculum on Israel for Diaspora Jews. iEngage is an attempt to give Diaspora Jews a richer language in speaking about Israel – less political and more conceptual, an attempt to create a shared values conversation. Also, I co-direct the institute’s Muslim Leadership Initiative, or MLI, together with Imam Abdullah Antepli of Duke University. MLI aims at educating young emerging Muslim American leaders about the meaning of Israel in Judaism and for Jews today. We’ve graduated our first cohort of 15 participants – a remarkable group of people – and we have two new groups. Along with those responsibilities, I spend my mornings at the institute writing. It’s a wonderful arrangement for a writer. PKJ: When/why did you add Halevi to your name? YKH: When my wife, Sarah, and I moved to Israel, we decided to Hebraize our name. We chose Halevi because, well, I’m a Levi, and the Levites were a caste of service in the Temple, playing music, and Sarah and I were drawn to the idea of serving God through creativity. Sarah and I met in a writing program – at City College. PKJ: Any new book projects on your to-do list? YKH: I’ve just begun a new book project, which is about the Palestinians. I’ll say only that I intend this to be much shorter than Like Dreamers – both in terms of book length and the amount of time I’ll invest in it. Like Dreamers took eleven years to research and write. As we used to say in JDL – never again. A version of this interview first appeared in Jewish Book World Spring 2015 Vol. 33 No. 1. It is reprinted with permission. Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeritus of English from the United States Naval Academy. He reviews regularly for Florida Weekly, Jewish Book World, Southern Literary Review, and other publications. Please visit Phil’s website at www.philjason.wordpress.com.

is pleased to announce the 1st annual

Jewish Book Fair of Collier County

The Jewish Book Fair of Collier County will take place next season over e several days and at different venues throughout the area. It will feature about r ten authors talking about their new books. As details become available, they will be published in the Federation Star, in Federation eblasts and on www. e jewishnaples.org. To help create the best possible Jewish Book Fair, we need several committee members as well as readers to review potential authors/books. Book readers are needed during the two-week period of May 29 - June 11, 2015. If you are interested in being a book reader or on the committee, please email Ted Epstein at fedstar18@gmail.com. More detailed information will be sent in early May to those interested in helping make the 1st annual Jewish Book Fair of Collier County a huge success.

May 2015 Federation Star

Jerusalem Post Crossword Puzzle “Character Actors” by Michael Wiesenberg

Difﬁculty Level: Challenging

Editor: David Benkof, DavidBenkof@gmail.com Solution on page 25 Hint: This is a challenging rebus puzzle where you will have to put Hebrew letters into some of the boxes to make the words fit. For example, instead of CASHIN, the answer is CA followed by the Hebrew letter Shin. Across Michael Landon vehicle) 1 Sukkah protection for when it’s 62 It could be mistaken for a vowel raining 5 “The Defiant Ones” Oscar nominee Down Williams 1 Klezmer instrument 9 Leave a poker game 2 Where Israel technically is found 12 Intel Israel customer 3 Country singer who starred on 13 Newsman David dubbed “The Broadway in 2001 as Irving Berlin’s Brain” by his CNBC co-workers Annie Oakley 14 Rachel’s is found in a Muslim 4 Original or most effective force in cemetery on the outskirts of an undertaking or work Bethlehem 5 Capital SSW of Jerusalem 15 Familiar PM 6 Aleph-bet equivalent 16 Rebound of sorts 7 ___ Speedwagon songwriter Adrian 17 Uzi fodder Gurvitz 18 They might request help getting 8 Original models started 9 Punctuation mark missing from the 20 Someone who likes to “cane” you? Torah 22 Approximation phrase, for which 10 Capital E of Jerusalem Israelis might say “B’erech” 11 “___ connected to the...” 23 Temple Emanu-El, Washington’s 13 “The Creation of Adam,” for one first synagogue, is in this city 14 “Eshet Chayil” verse: “She sets 24 Like a Jewish name ending in about her work vigorously; her -wich or -witz arms are strong for her ___” 27 Emulates Emma Lazarus 19 Emulates Elijah’s cup 28 Rabbis or Hebrew school teachers, 21 Va-ed often 23 Sound of a dropped scoop of 31 Spoon-bending Geller Cherry Garcia 34 States like 15A 24 Ladino ladies: Abbr. 35 Lod fig. 25 Subject of King David’s poetry 36 Gimme for Amy Alcott or Bruce 26 Whom Carrie referred to when Fleisher she said “Help me Obi Wan 38 How long it takes to say “Amen,” Kenobi. You’re my only hope.” for short 29 What a shmegege might be said to be 39 Cry that may accompany a shot 30 Initials at Lod 41 They let people watch SNL on a 31 “Modeh Ani” (prayer ___ Tuesday wakening) 43 “___ page 237 in your siddurim” 32 Makhtesh Ramon, essentially 44 Speak clearly 33 Haaretz supplies this, informally 47 Herzl, for short 36 More emesdik 48 Makes claims, as 15A is wont to 37 Richard Simmons specialty 49 Playground equipment that hangs 39 Chagall exhibition, e.g. on a pole 40 “Psst, you!” 53 “Climb ___ Mountain”: from 41 Hed Arzi’s music used to be on this Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “The 42 Common Jerusalem street sight Sound of Music” 44 Either side of a 50-50 proposition 54 Many an Israeli start-up 45 Northern Canadian territory 56 Jacob to Rachel and Leah: “___ 46 He was born Jerome Lester Horwitz that your father’s attitude toward 47 Phi Delta ___ (fraternity that me is not what it was before” barred Jews until 1954) (Genesis 31:5) 49 Neon fish 57 Aleph-___ 50 Bim’heyra be’yameinu 58 Speak, as 15A did before Congress 51 Night show host who spoke to on March 3, 2015 Toronto’s UJA Campaign Launch 59 Israeli pickles usually come in 2015 them 52 “___ We Forget” (Holocaust 60 America Ferrera’s “Ugly ___” slogan) 61 “I ___ Teenage Werewolf” (early 55 A Gershwin

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JEWISH INTEREST

Federation Star May 2015

The poet of the Jewish people By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD

n May 1945, 70 years ago this month, a poem was published which, for many, is one of the most eloquent testimonials to the Holocaust ever expressed in that literary genre. Written in Yiddish and entitled Dos Lid Funem Oysgehargen Yidishn Folk, the English title translates to The Song of the Murdered Jewish People. Dr. Paul Bartrop The author was Itzhak Katzenelson, a Hebrew and Yiddish poet and dramatist. Born on July 21, 1886 in Karelichy (Korelichi), a small town in Belarus near Minsk, Katzenelson was a descendant of a long line of sages and scholars dating back to the great Talmudic commentator, Rabbi Yom-Tov Lipmann Heller (c. 1579-1654). He was raised in Lodz, Poland, where the family had moved soon after he was born. Considered a literary prodigy, by the age of twelve he already had written his first play, Dreyfus un Esterhazy. Prior to World War I, he opened a secular Hebrew school, and undertook the creation of a network of such schools ranging from kindergarten through high school. He also became known for his Hebrew textbooks and books for children, which were the first of their kind. In addition, he wrote Yiddish comedies (translated into Hebrew), and in 1912 founded Habima HaIvrit (The Hebrew Stage), a theatre troupe that toured Poland and Lithuania. His first volume of poetry, Dimdumim (Twilight), appeared in 1910. He also found time to visit Palestine several times across the years.

From 1930 onwards, Katzenelson belonged to the Dror Zionist movement and to the Hechalutz movement – which, with emigration to Palestine its goal, operated a training commune, Kibbutz Hakhsharah. He held the belief that Jewish life in Poland was utterly without hope owing to an ingrained anti-Semitism within the national consciousness, and that emigration to Palestine was the only solution for the Jewish people. After Nazi Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939, and Lodz was occupied, Katzenelson’s school was forced to close. Later, it served as the city’s Gestapo headquarters. In late November 1939 he fled to Warsaw, with his wife Hanna and their three children joining him there later. Hanna and his two younger sons, Benjamin and Ben Zion, would be deported to their deaths in Treblinka on August 14, 1942. In the ghetto, Katzenelson entered his most creative period, writing poems and articles in the underground Zionist press, as well as approximately fifty plays. He wrote poems that reflected the contemporary suffering of the ghetto, though masked through Biblical or historical themes. His descriptions were a response to the wretched conditions in which the Warsaw Jews found themselves. His Yiddish play Iyov (Job) was published on June 22, 1941, possibly the only Jewish book published in the ghetto during the German occupation. With the onset of the Warsaw Ghetto revolt in April 1943, friends smuggled Katzenelson and his surviving son Zvi into the “Aryan” part of the city. They went to the Polski Hotel,

from where they obtained forged passports certifying that they were citizens of Honduras. With these in hand, they were transferred to the French internment camp at Vittel, where the Nazis held Allied citizens and nationals of other neutral countries for possible later prisoner exchange. It was here, on October 3, 1943, that he wrote The Song of the Murdered Jewish People. He completed this epic poem of fifteen chapters on January 18, 1944. Among its lines were included: And it continued. Ten a day, ten thousand Jews a day. That did not last very long. Soon they took fifteen thousand. Warsaw, The City of Jews – the fenced-in, walled-in city, Dwindled, expired, melted like snow before my eyes. Warsaw, packed with Jews like a synagogue on Yom Kippur, like a busy marketplace Jews trading and worshiping, both happy and sad Seeking their bread, praying to their God. They crowded the walled-in, locked-in city. You are deserted now, Warsaw, like a gloomy wasteland. You are a cemetery now, more desolate than a graveyard. Your streets are empty – not even a corpse can be found there. The poem ended with the words “Woe to me, everything is over … there once existed a nation but she is no more.” Katzenelson made two copies of the poem, one of which was given to Ruth Adler, a German Jew from Dresden who had a British Palestinian passport. In the spring of 1944 she re-

ceived permission to leave the country in a prisoner exchange, and smuggled out her copy. Katzenelson buried the manuscript of the other copy in bottles under a tree at Vittel with the help of a fellow prisoner, French resistance fighter and later historian, Miriam Novitch. After the war, Novitch retrieved the manuscript and arranged for it to be published; this was done in May 1945. Extracts have since been published in numerous languages, and an individual volume has also appeared. In the early spring of 1944, the Jews interned at Vittel were declared stateless, and on April 18, 1944, those of Polish origin were transported in three railroad cars to the Drancy transit camp near Paris. In late April 1944, Itzhak and Zvi Katzenelson were sent from there to Auschwitz, where they were murdered on May 1, 1944. In Israel, a lasting monument to Katzenelson was created when the Ghetto Fighters’ House (Beit Lohamei Ha-Getaot), established in 1949, was named in his honor as the Itzhak Katzenelson Holocaust and Jewish Resistance Heritage Museum. The museum has since made extensive efforts to collect as many of Katzenelson’s manuscripts as can be located, and to translate his works into English and other languages. For many, in giving voice to “The Murdered Jewish People,” Itzhak Katzenelson is, in truth, their Poet. Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of History and the Director of the Center for Judaic, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies at Florida Gulf Coast University. He can be reached at pbartrop@fgcu.edu.

Exhibition explores ‘the day of rest’ through a contemporary lens

“The Seventh Day: Revisiting Shabbat” at the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU

n Jewish tradition, one of the pillars of Jewish practice, Sabbath, or Shabbat, is observed in many ways, including going to synagogue, enjoying a special meal, resting from work or physical activity, and reflecting on life outside of our daily routines. The Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU presents an exhibition, “The Seventh Day: Revisiting Shabbat,” that features contemporary and often provocative depictions of Shabbat through the works of leading international artists. “The

Will Barnet, 1911-2012, Beverly, MA, Saturday Afternoon, Gramercy Park, Color photo-lithograph, 130/200, 2012, Gift of the Print Club of New York, Inc., 15 7/8” x 18 1/2”

SAVE THE DATE

Seventh Day” will be on view through October 25, 2015. Over millennia, the interpretation and the practice of Shabbat has evolved, changed and expanded to meet the needs of people, respond to

the growth of rabbinic law, and adapt to the travails of living in the Diaspora. The Jewish celebration of the seventh day encourages the following actions: Welcoming the moment, Giving charity, Blessing loved ones, Illuminating the dark, Acknowledging the fruits of the land, Sustaining life and the environment, Connecting with others, Sanctifying intimacy and sexuality, Continuing spiritual education, Awakening the senses, Imprinting generational Alex Gruss, 1957, Buenos Aires, Argentina, Six Days of Creation, memory, and Pausing to 2013, Wood, mother of pearl, copper, ink, 18” x 38” meditate, to achieve serenity, ease and peace. With a rapidly changing Jewish community, characterized by increasing ethnic diversity, interfaith families, challenges affecting the organized institutions of Jewish life, and an unprecedented acJudy Chicago, 1934, Brooklyn, NY, Rainbow Shabbat, 1992, Lithograph, 30” x 45” ceptance in the fabric of North American life, what does the seventh day mean to contemporary Jews who may or may not choose to adhere to traditional observance? The artists in this exhibition have tackled this question, resulting in these works of art born out of an era where technology and culture have eroded the boundaries separating work, play and repose. “The Seventh Day” includes pieces based on Sabbath texts and functional ritual objects such as candlesticks,

Israel Scouts performance: Tuesday, June 9 at 7pm Temple Shalom

Malcah Zeldis, 1931, Bronx, NY, Sabbath in Detroit, 1981, Acrylic on board, 251/2” x 251/2”

challah plates and covers. Concepts from midrash and the Kabbalah, reflecting mystical spirituality, also have inspired these artists. These contemporary artworks engage our imagination and invite us to delve into the possibilities and new definitions of renewal, symbolized by the ‘day of rest.’ Traveling exhibit from Hebrew Union College - Jewish Institute of Religion Museum, New York. About JMOF-FIU The Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU is the only museum dedicated to telling the story of 250 years of Florida Jewish heritage, arts and culture. The museum is housed in two adjacent, lovingly restored historic buildings, at 301 Washington Avenue on South Beach, that were once synagogues for Miami Beach’s first Jewish congregation. The museum’s permanent exhibition is “MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Florida, 1763 to Present.” Its temporary history and art exhibitions change periodically. For more information, please call 305.672.5044 or visit www.jewishmu seum.com or Facebook @JewishMus eumofFlorida.

To advertise in the Federation Star, please contact Ted Epstein at 239.249.0699 or fedstar18@gmail.com.

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TRIBUTES / ISRAEL BRIEFS

Federation Star May 2015

Tributes

Tributes to the Federation Campaign To: From:

Elaine Soffer In your honor, for all you have done and continue to do for WCA and JFCC Rona & Norman Senior

In loving memory of our beloved parents & grandparents, Ethel & David Levine From: Dr. Randal, Madeline, Jared & Chad Sugerman To: Arlene Litow In your honor, with gratitude and friendship From: Charlene Handleman To: Henny Porter & Family In memory of your beloved husband, Morton Porter We are so sorry for your loss. We were honored to know him. From: The Barr/Albaum Family (Terri, Moshe, Mark, Rachel, Noah & Matthew) David B. Goldstein Lauren, Deborah & Daniel Alpert Sylvia & Dr. Irving Wolinsky Bunny Levere Ruth Eppsteiner Illene & Warren Rubin Lancaster Orthopedic Group Nancy Gold & Richard Koff Miriam C. Katz To: Dr. & Mrs. Art Porter & Family In memory of your beloved father, Morton Porter From: Sandi & Burt Zucker Steven J. Pike Rochelle & Richard Kaplow Amy & Ron Greenspan

Tributes require a minimum donation of $18.

To: Dr. & Mrs. Stanley Porter & Family In memory of your beloved father, Morton Porter From: Rosie Rosenbaum & Shimon Layani To: Marc Porter & Family In memory of your beloved father, Morton Porter From: Matthew H. Kamens To: From:

Erin Peachin & Family In memory of your beloved mother, Joanne M. Messinger Ronda Landy & Sanford Sirkus

To: Lois M. & Philip Cohen In honor of your 60th wedding anniversary From: Barbara Meltz To: Naida & Michael Rodman In honor of your 50th wedding anniversary From: Phyllis & Steve Strome

• • • • • •

Sergey Litvak

ANTI-SEMITISM IN U.S. SPIKES AFTER NEARLY A DECADE OF DECLINE

Anti-Semitic incidents in the U.S. spiked 21% last year, according to the Anti-Defamation League. The ADL counted 912 incidents in 2014, up from 751 the previous year. The report shows 36 assaults, up from 31 in 2013; 363 incidents of vandalism in 2014, compared with 315 in 2013; and 513 incidents of threats and harassment in 2014, contrasted with 405 in 2013. ADL researchers correlate the rise in anti-Semitism to last summer’s war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. 2014 also included the fatal shootings at a Jewish community center in Overland Park, Kansas. (Lauren Markoe, Washington Post)

ISRAELI ELECTIONS OVERSEEN BY ISRAELI ARAB

The Chairman of Israel’s Central Election Committee overseeing the recent

To: Michael Sobol We wish you a speedy recovery From: Debbie & Gary Kohler To: Paulette Margulies Muchas Gracias, Todah Rabah, Merci and Thank You From: Your Students To: From:

Gail & Dr. Mel Ufberg & Family Congratulations on your two simchas: Lilly’s Bat Mitzvah and Carly’s graduation Anne & Peter Klein

To place a Tribute in the Federation Star in honor of someone, please contact Iris Doenias at the Federation office at 239.263.4205 or iris@jewishnaples.org. Tributes require a minimum donation of $18. A note will be sent to the person you are honoring. Tributes help further the work of the Jewish Federation of Collier County.

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equipped with changing rooms, showers and toilets. Four beaches are accessible to people with disabilities: Tzuk, Northern Tzuk, Metzizim and Hilton (all in the northern part of the city). Lifeguard and tourist police services are available during the official bathing season of May through October. (Ministry of Tourism News Bulletin)

To: Ida & Jeff Margolis Thank you for your hospitality From: Ted Epstein

Barry Shurak & family on the passing of his beloved wife, Ellen Shurak Harry & Bea Friedman on the passing of Harry’s beloved brother, Isadore Friedman Dr. Mark & Anne Rubin on the passing of Dr. Mark’s beloved sister, Karen Meltzer Henny Porter & Family on the passing of her beloved husband, Morton Porter Sandra Tenney & Rich Nepon & Family on the passing of Rich’s beloved mother, Bernice B. Nepon Les & Betty Schwartz on the passing of Betty’s beloved aunt

Thanks to the following new supporter of the Federation Star for his contribution to help underwrite the cost of bringing news of the local, national and international Jewish community to your mailbox every month!

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To: Gina & Timothy Cannon In memory of Gina’s beloved stepfather From: Phyllis & Steve Strome

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BRIEFS

To: Howard Sherman In honor of your special birthday From: Phyllis & Steve Strome

Israeli election is Supreme Court Justice Salim Joubran – an Israeli Arab. Imagine a Baha’i overseeing Iranian elections, a Yazidi overseeing Iraqi elections, or a Christian overseeing Saudi elections. (CAMERA)

HAMAS TWITTER CAMPAIGN TO CHALLENGE “TERROR” LABEL BACKFIRES Hamas launched a Twitter campaign Thursday, March 12 - #AskHamas - to improve its image and refute its designation as a terror organization. Critics wasted no time in using the hashtag to tweet disparaging questions, such as: How do you feel about your leader hiding out in a fancy hotel in Doha while there was a war in Gaza? Do you import the Israeli flags you burn, or do you manufacture them yourselves? Do you feel comfortable launching your social media campaign on a site founded by a Jew? What UN school in Gaza should I send my daughter to, if I don’t want her to trip over your stored weapons? (Lora Moftah, International Business Times)

ISRAEL SENDS MOBILE WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEM TO PARCHED PACIFIC ISLAND

Israel’s G.A.L. Water Technologies is sending a unique water-purification system loaded into a vehicle to the Marshall Islands, which suffer a serious lack of drinking water, in a donation from the Israel Ministry of Foreign

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Affairs. G.A.L. Deputy CEO Sigal Levi said: “This new product, patented in 171 countries, is the first of its kind in the world. In a few minutes you have enough fresh water for 6,500 people to drink, completely automatically.” The mobile treatment, storage and distribution unit could save lives following natural disasters, when drinking water may be impossible to procure. (Abigail Klein Leichman, ISRAEL21c)

ISRAELI PATENTS IN U.S. JUMP 21%

The number of Israeli patents in the U.S. jumped 21% in 2014, putting it third on a list of foreign countries filing patents there (by population) after Japan and Taiwan, according to a study by BdiCoface. (Niv Elis, Jerusalem Post)

ISRAEL’S RAPIDLY GROWING ECONOMIC CLOUT

250 high-tech companies from the U.S. alone have made Israel home to their R&D centers. 2014 set records for Israeli hightech and biotech startups – 52 Israeli startups sold to the tune of some $15 billion, plus 18 IPOs worth another $10 billion, according to end-of-year reports by accounting firm Pricewaterhouse Coopers and Ethosia Human Resources, who expect 2015 to be even bigger. This January alone saw foreign giants such as Microsoft and Amazon shell out $900 million for companies

rich in Israel’s only abundant renewable resource: ingenuity. The Western press likes to describe Israel as increasingly isolated in the world due to its supposed failure to make peace with the Palestinians. Israel has never been less isolated, never been more embraced. (Lawrence Solomon, Financial Post - Canada)

JEWISH-ARAB COEXISTENCE AGAINST THE ODDS

According to a February 17 public opinion survey conducted by Tel Aviv University, the most pressing issues for Israel’s Arabs are employment, education, health care, neighborhood crime and women’s rights (43%), ahead of enhancing the status of the Arab community in Israel (28.1%) and the Israel-Palestinian conflict and negotiations (19%). Moreover, 61.3% of Israel’s Arabs consider the Knesset an effective arena to address their concerns. A February 17 poll conducted by Stat Net indicated that 77% of Israeli Arabs prefer Israeli – over Palestinian – citizenship, and 64% are optimistic about Jewish-Arab relations. The 2014 special election for the mayor of Nazareth featured a resounding victory (62% to 38%) for Ali Salam, who focused on civic challenges in Nazareth, over Ramiz Jaraisy, who highlighted his identification with the PA. According to Tel Aviv University researcher Arik Rudnitzky, the dramatic increase in voter turnout among Arab voters from 56.5% in 2013 to 64% in 2015 reflects the widening interaction and integration between Israel’s Jews

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ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

May 2015 Federation Star

$4.5 million raised at annual FIDF Miami event to beneﬁt Israeli soldiers

ore than 1,100 FIDF supporters and lay leaders helped raise $4.5 million at the annual Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) Greater Miami Chapter Solidarity Gala at The Diplomat Hotel in Hollywood, Florida. Everyone joined together in honoring FIDF National Chairman Nily Falic. Falic, a seventh-generation Israeli, was the chairman of the Instituto Cultural Floridiano Israeli and is a recipient of the Galardon De Jose Marti Award. She is a lifetime member of Hadassah and a recipient of Weitzman Institute “Women of Vision” award. She and her family are passionate advocates and supporters of Israel. Her three grandsons were Lone Soldiers – those who immigrate alone to enlist in the IDF – and served as paratroopers. “Since the day I was drafted in 1998 with a mission to reestablish the FIDF Miami Chapter in order to provide for the wellbeing of the IDF soldiers, I have watched it like a proud parent grow with remarkable achievements that greatly enhance and impact the lives of the brave IDF soldiers and the Israeli society,” said Falic. “In fact, the State of Israel and the IDF are synonymous; one cannot exist without the other. We at FIDF have a mission with a vision, which is to strengthen the IDF soldiers and the

Israeli society, and to nurture a strong and meaningful bond between our communities and the State of Israel.” Among other event speakers were Lt. Col. Roei, commanding officer of Golani Reconnaissance Battalion. Lt. Col. Roei and his team received the Chief of Staff Award in 2013 after his regiment found and destroyed explosives that terrorists had placed on Israel’s border with Syria. In addition, the group came up with the idea of establishing a field hospital to treat the wounded from the neighboring Syrian Civil War. Special guests also included Maj. Nadav, a Commander in the Golani

BRIEFS

“The failure to maintain the degree of mature and cooperative discretion that officials from several governments have exercised up to now marks a serious change in the code of conduct.” (Tom Gross, Weekly Standard)

continued from previous page

and Arabs, and growing Arab confidence in the Israeli political system. A growing majority of Arab voters appreciate Israel’s democracy, especially when observing the flaming Arab tsunami throughout the Middle East, devoid of civil liberties and replete with violent intolerance towards minorities and each other. (Yoram Ettinger, Israel Hayom)

IN SHOCKING BREACH, U.S. REVEALS SOME -OF ISRAEL’S NUCLEAR CAPABILITIES

eOn February 12, the Pentagon declasesified a top-secret document from 1987 detailing Israel’s nuclear program, but kept sections on France, Germany and rItaly classified and blacked out. The declassification is a serious breach of decades’ old understandings concerning this issue. Israel has never Eadmitted to having nuclear weapons. Together with leaking incorrect allegations that Israel spies on the c U.S., this “is part of a pattern of carev fully controlled leaking of information -which is very hard to attribute to a speecific government agency or individual. fNevertheless it is clear what is happen-ing,” said an informed person connect-ed to the government in Jerusalem. s

Brigade who, during Operation Protective Edge, evacuated dozens of injured and mortally wounded soldiers while under fire. Capt. Adi, Battery Commander in Israel’s Air Defense Command, was injured during her service. Today, she commands 80 soldiers, including five officers. Capt. Shir, Operations Officer at a brigade training base, was shot in both knees after he entered the Gaza Strip to locate and destroy terrorist tunnels. 2nd Lt. Ekaterina, a Naval Control Officer on the first day of the operation, and her team prevented four terrorists from infiltrating into Israel. Prominent guests also included

FIDF Florida Executive Director, Dina Ben Ari; FIDF National Director and CEO, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Meir Klifi-Amir; FIDF National Chairman, Nily Falic; MK Limor Livnat; Maj. Gen. Yaacov Ayish; and Israeli military attachés

EGYPT TO BUY $1.2 BILLION WORTH OF NATURAL GAS FROM ISRAEL

Egyptian firm Dolphinus Holdings has signed a seven-year deal to buy $1.2 billion of natural gas from Israel’s Tamar field, the partners in the field said on Wednesday, March 18. The gas will be exported through an underwater pipeline. (Ari Rabinovitch, Reuters)

and her husband even traveled secretly to Israel for the procedure. He has also dealt with the wife of a Muslim president who had trouble conceiving. Schenker told a story about his father, who was chief surgeon and commander of the army hospital in Safed during the ‘48 war. “The Druze were against us [at the

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Where the science of medicine meets the artistry of aesthetics

ISRAEL’S MEDICAL DIPLOMACY

In the past year, Israeli physicians have treated the daughter of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, the President of Zambia Michael Sata, Syrian rebel fighters and civilians, and Kurdish and Jordanian children. Every Tuesday children from Gaza and the West Bank arrive at Wolfson Medical Center in Holon for surgery and check-ups. Dr. Joseph Schenker, a fertility doctor at Hadassah Medical Center, noted: “I have patients from Egypt, Lebanon – all these countries.” He said he helped the niece of Ayatollah Khomeini with reproductive issues, and she

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Federation Star May 2015

COMMENTARY

A New York Times editorial bashes Israeli democracy By Yarden Frankl, March 18, 2015, Reproduced with permission of HonestReporting, www.honestreporting.com

s Israeli voters turned out and gave the most votes to the party of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the New York Times goes all out with an editorial (“An Israeli Election Turns Ugly”) that can only charitably be labeled a “diatribe.” By the title, you would think that Netanyahu had arrested political opponents and muzzled the free Israeli press – tactics reflective of the rule of the Palestinian Authority and Israel’s Middle East neighbors. No, the New York Times appears to be genuinely alarmed that Israeli voters chose a politi-

cal party with positions contrary to those of the Times editorial board. There is nothing objectionable about the New York Times giving its opinions on Israeli issues. That’s what the editorial pages are for after all. However, there is something amiss when, rather than educating readers about issues, the Times goes on a verbal rampage against the head of the winning party. Israel has a strong democratic process in which a government that reflects the will of its citizens is chosen. While not perfect, (and no democracy I know of is,) the fundamental principle that

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Israel IS a democracy is no small matter. There is not a single other country in the Middle East that is a democracy in the true meaning of the word. Not only do Israel’s neighbors not allow meaningful votes, but they do not allow basic democratic rights – free speech, free press, etc. – that those living in real democracies take for granted. Rather than labeling the Israeli elections “ugly,” perhaps it should be the lack of elections in the region that the Times should find more worthy of such a label. After all, it’s been several years since Palestinians held elections of their own. Summing up, the Times editorial claims that:

BRIEFS continued from previous page

ISRAEL DEVELOPS REVOLUTIONARY BODY ARMOR

Israeli scientists have recently developed an innovative new material able to withstand bullets and knife attacks that could revolutionize body armor technology. Inspired by the scaly skin of fish, researchers from the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology designed a hybrid double-layered material that provides protection against penetration while preserving flexibility. In addition to making bulletproof clothing for the military, the material could be used to protect space-walking astronauts from radiation and micro-meteors. (Tamar Pileggi, Times of Israel)

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As the IsraAID team walked up the path, the chief of one village on the remote island of Tongoa broke down in tears, explaining, “It’s been ten days since the disaster, and these are the first supplies we have received.” The situation was the same all across Tongoa and Mataso. In total, the team visited 12 villages, distributing rice, flour and drinking water. In the coming days (as of March 26) a third IsraAID team will leave for Vanuatu, and will include medical and psycho-social staff, and a water engineer. (IsraAID)

“In his desperation, Mr. Netanyahu resorted to fear-mongering and antiArab attacks while failing to address the issues that Israelis said they were most worried about.” But the vote was an opportunity for Israelis to make their feelings known. If he truly failed to address the issues Israelis are “most worried about,” the Likud would not have won such a resounding victory. Even if the Times doesn’t approve, it is up to Israeli citizens to choose a government that represents the interests of the majority, a right denied to those who live under the Palestinian Authority and in surrounding countries.

ISRAELIS SUBSIDIZE PALESTINIANS’ WATER

“Close cooperation between all parties can ensure equitable, maximal access to clean and safe water and help create a more peaceful environment,” said Professor Gerald Steinberg, president of NGO Monitor. “Unfortunately, NGOs would rather politicize this issue and demonize Israel than improve Palestinian access to clean water.” The major factor in the water shortage in Gaza is the poor maintenance of the water and sewage infrastructure, resulting in losses of more than 40% (compared to 3% in the Israeli system). NGOs have accused the Israeli national water company, Mekorot, of profiting from “Israeli control over a Palestinian captive market under occupation.” Yet, in 2013 Mekorot sold water to the Palestinians at a loss (at a price of NIS 2.85 per MCM). In contrast, Israelis pay NIS 8.89 per MCM, in effect subsidizing the Palestinians’ water. (NGO Monitor)

CANADA, ISRAEL JOIN FORCES TO AID UKRAINIAN AGRICULTURE

Representatives of Canada and Israel recently met in Kiev, Ukraine, to sign a memorandum of understanding to assist farmers and small and medium-sized business owners in a “Ukraine Horticulture Business Development Project” to provide equipment and training by Canadian and Israeli experts to Ukrainian farmers. (Paul Lungen, Canadian Jewish News)

Opinions and letters printed in the Federation Star do not necessarily reflect those of the Jewish Federation of Collier County, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers.

A triple dose of Dry Bones

May 2015 Federation Star

COMMENTARY / BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Lessons of the Holocaust

Letter to the Editor

Reflections on the Israel election uI have lived long enough to have witnessed two of the important events in the history of the Jewish people in one tlifetime: the genocide of the Jews in Europe and the creation of the State of Israel. I have known many who survived .the Shoah and I have been witness to sthe wars and struggles of Israel since e1948. I am proud to have lived in Israel for almost a year, and visited too often to keep count. i I find solace and meaning in the tchronicle of Biblical events. There are atwo milestones in Jewish history emebedded in our national conscience: the -destruction of the ten tribes by Assyria and the exile of Judah by Babylonia. I thought of these events in the history of our people as I watched the election returns from Israel. Unless the Jews live in a relation-

ship of harmony and mutual respect with the Arab people, the Zionist experience is in danger. Any leader of Israel is required to launch peace negotiations. The world, including the United States, will demand a Palestinian state. The American people will come to demand the dismantling of the settlements on Palestinian territories. If Israel is to participate in the world global economy, it must accept a two-state solution. If Israel leaders do not fix the problem, the world, through the United Nations, will fix it for them. The United Nations created Israel, and the UN can end it. Israel must prove to the world community that it is a nation that practices human rights; that it is a cultural and religious pluralistic nation; that it promotes justice for all and values justice, peace and democracy. – Herbert Herman, Naples

What do you think? The Federation Star wants to know! Send your letters and comments to fedstar18@gmail.com

Letters Policy

By Menachem Begin

Editor’s note: This is a good time to remember the following words from Menachem Begin, former Prime Minister of Israel: believe the lessons of the Holocaust are these: First, if an enemy of our people says he seeks to destroy us, believe him. Don’t doubt him for a moment. Don’t make light of it. Do all in your power to deny him the means of carrying out his satanic intent. (Note: One month later, Begin dispatched Israel’s Air Force to destroy the Iraqi nuclear facility at Osirak.) Second, when a Jew anywhere in the world is threatened or under attack, do all in your power to come to his aid. Never pause to wonder what the world will think or say. The world will never pity slaughtered Jews. The world may not necessarily like the fighting Jew, but the world will have to take account of him. Third, a Jew must learn to defend himself. He must forever be prepared for whenever threat looms. Fourth, Jewish dignity and honor must be protected in all circumstances. The seeds of Jewish destruction lie in passively enabling the enemy to humiliate us. Only when the enemy succeeds in turning the spirit of the Jew into dust and ashes in life, can he turn the Jew into dust and ashes in death. During the Holocaust it was after the enemy had humiliated the Jews, trampled them underfoot, divided them, deceived

them, afflicted them, drove brother against brother, only then could he lead them, almost without resistance, to the gates of Auschwitz. Therefore, at all times and whatever the cost, safeguard the dignity and honor of the Jewish people. Fifth, stand united in the face of the enemy. We Jews love life, for life is holy. But there are things in life more precious than life itself. There are times when one must risk life for the sake of rescuing the lives of others. And when the few risk their own lives for the sake of the many, then they, too, stand the chance of saving themselves. Sixth, there is a pattern to Jewish history. In our long annals as a nation, we rise, we fall, we return, we are exiled, we are enslaved, we rebel, we liberate ourselves, we are oppressed once more, we rebuild, and again we suffer destruction, climaxing in our own lifetime in the calamity of calamities, the Holocaust, followed by the rebirth of the Jewish State. So, yes, we have come full circle, and with G-d’s help, with the rebirth of sovereign Israel we have finally broken the historic cycle: no more destruction and no more defeats, and no more oppression – only Jewish liberty, with dignity and honor. These, I believe, are the underlying lessons to be learned from the unspeakable tragedy of the Holocaust.

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Federation Star May 2015

Rising Star: Rachel Waltzer

By Jean L. Amodea

Who: Rachel Waltzer School/Grade: Barron Collier High School sophomore Family: Father, Joel; mother, Jane; sisters, Suzie age 17, Zoe age 11 What are your favorite academic subjects? I excel in math as I have throughout my high school years, and I also enjoy English classes. I love to read in my free time, which helps me greatly in my English classes. Do you play sports? I participate in tennis and am on the high school tennis team that has made it to the Florida High School State Championships for the past several years. What are your future plans for college? Since my older sister, Suzie, will attend Emory next fall, I too would like to attend that school and follow in her footsteps. I have many career choices in mind, such as the medical field, business or accounting. What is your role with BBYO? I have participated in BBYO for the past three years. Last year, I was MIT Mom and Shaliach on the board. I was in charge of recruiting new members and planning events that incorporated Judaism in some way. This term, I am the vice president.

What does being Jewish mean to you? To me, being Jewish means being a part of a community and having a close relationship with my congregation. After my bat mitzvah, I more fully understood what it meant to be Jewish. The event changed my life and connected me to God. By reading from the Torah, I fully became a part of the adult Jewish world. My family holds the tradition of observing Friday night Shabbat every week. We drop everything on Friday night and focus on Shabbat with the family. Where do you attend services? I attend Temple Shalom and have been attending the temple since preschool. Currently, I am in confirmation class. As a class, we are fundraising for the temple. We are also planning a family

night out, where we will babysit for children so that the parents can have a night out. I also volunteered at the most recent Jewish Federation community event. What is most important to you right now, and how do you spend your free time? My family is most important to me right now and they are the glue that holds my life together because they have supported me throughout school, BBYO, my friends and Judaism. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, playing tennis and going to the beach. Who is your inspiration? My mother is my inspiration because she has been fighting breast cancer for over

Zoe, Joel, Jane, Rachel and Suzie Waltzer

two years. I hope one day to become such an amazing woman andg a role model like myS mother. She has alwaysi supported me in everyl way possible and sheS is also my best friend. What is the secret to your success thus far? My secret to my success so far has been Rachel Waltzer to never give up in life and choose to be surrounded by people who lift you up and not bring you down. I would not be where I am today if it were not for my loving family and friends. What are your words of wisdom for your peers? Take life seriously starting right now, before it is too late. I am already thinking about my future so that I can continue to be successful. Jean Amodea, a former school principal from New Jersey is a freelance writer for the Naples Daily News and its community publications as well as director of Peter Duchin Music of Naples/Entertainment Direct. She also performs with her husband Ron’s dance band, jazz ensemble and Caribbean quartet. Reach Jean at jeanamodea@gmail.com.

Want to see your “rising young star” featured in the Federation Star? Send an email to jeanamodea@gmail.com with the details.

Temple Shalom Preschool update By Seyla Cohen, Preschool Director

ow that we are approaching the last quarter of the school year, we are taking registrations for the 2015-2016 school year. Those students who are currently enrolled are given first opportunity to sign up for the upcoming year. Enrollment is open to the general public and we are almost full to capacity. Providing a nurturing, caring, academically challenging program, state-of-the art equipment, and experienced, educated teachers, Temple Shalom Preschool looks forward to continued success for the upcoming school year. Those interested in learning more are invited to call the preschool office at 239.455.3227 and ask for Gloria or me to receive information or set up a tour. There’s nothing like tradition and holidays to let us know where in the year we are. Children thrive on structure and repetition so it’s no wonder that the festivals we celebrate each year create lasting memories. Such rituals can be

started at an early age and that is our intention at Temple Shalom Preschool. Purim, with its wonderful stories and custom of dressing in costume, is always one of the favorites and this year was no different. Miss Jane treated us to her wonderful songs, and the children paraded and enjoyed the festive day. On Passover, another much-loved celebration, children become familiar

Temple Shalom Preschool is proud to be Gulfshore Life’s “Best of the Gulfshore 2015”

with the different foods offered and the meaning behind their presentation. As in many Jewish holidays, the menu plays an important part. We celebrated

The Mills boys celebrating at the TSP Seder and showing off the Matzah House made by Miss Lynn and Miss Iris’s Cubs class

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Passover with our TSP families at our annual Passover Seder where traditional dishes were savored. In our Storyland, The Story of Moses is told and acted out on stage; in art class, traditional Seder plates are crafted; in music, customary songs sung and danced to; and in our classrooms, creative Haggadahs constructed; all making for a fun learning experience, especially for our little ones. As these children progress through Temple Shalom Preschool year after year, these customs are repeated, forming a constant reminder of where they come from and instilling in them a sense of belonging. Those students who are not of the Jewish faith are exposed to practices that other religions follow, broadening their horizons. Camp Shalom & Camp Einstein at Temple Shalom Preschool On Monday, June 8, fabulous summer fun officially will begin at both Camp Shalom and Camp Einstein. Camp Shalom is a fun-filled 7-week summer camp program for children ages two through four, and Camp Einstein is an outstanding academic camp for children five through eight years old. Both programs have been developed with children’s needs and interests in mind, offering a welcoming place for little ones to come and enjoy the hot Naples summer. There’s something to peak

everyone’s interest. Campers participate in Water Play, Dancing, Arts and Crafts, Performing Arts, Foreign Language, Technology, Science Experiments and Music. Returning campers look forward to exciting experiences, and new campers are surprised by the treats in store for them. Each camp offers a new theme B each week. Children attending Camp Shalom have fun sharing a special breakfast with their dads, performing science experiments in our Science Lab, celebratings our planet and learning all about recy-a cling, creating magnificent art pieces,i cooking, gardening, learning aboute healthy eating, and creating a musicali showcase with our amazing Miss Jane!w Camp Einstein’s children use theirs creative minds and writing skills too develop their own play script, learna to become an entrepreneur, broadcastc a weather report, illustrate their owni book, create their own artistic mas-o terpieces, and learn about technology j through Legos. Now that’s what we call having aw blast at camp. Don’t you wish you weres part of our amazing Temple ShalomN b Preschool camp family? B 1 t a f i N g c e

Miss Wallie, Miss Simone and Miss Ann’s Cubs class dressed as frogs, showing off their Seder plates

For a continuously updated community calendar, visit www.jewishnaples.org.

i m i l o e t s M t a e

FOCUS ON YOUTH

May 2015 Federation Star

Spring BBYO events

ver the weekend of March 27-29, Naples BBYO sent its e biggest delegation yet to a Ren gional Convention. Fourteen teens form d ySababa BBG and Negev AZA took part sin a regional-wide spirit competition, ylistened to the North Florida Region State of Address given by the 11th Regional Board, and elected the new board oto lead the region for the 2015-2016 ?programming year. The teens dressed up in their crazy outfits, performed their hilarious skits, nand shouted their creative cheers. In the words of Sababa BBG senior Zoe Van gSlyke: “Spring Regional Convention mthis year was my favorite convention

in my three years of BBYO (and my last). Naples chapters in the past have always seemed smaller and inferior to the other chapters in the region, but this convention we showed brotherhood and sisterhood and even more spirit than the other chapters! My best friend coordinated the convention and I got to give regional lives and I couldn’t think of a better way to end my BBYO career!” In April, Naples BBYO invited all Jewish teens in grades 6-12, near and far, to take part in a worldwide BBYO international initiative known as JServe. J-Serve is an International Day of Youth Service where teens have the opportunity to give their time back to the

community that supports them. On Sunday, May 3, come out and support Sababa BBG #2552 as they Stand-Up against domestic violence in raising money and awareness for women who face this everyday struggle. All donations and proceeds will go to The Shelter for Abused Women and Children in Naples. There will be women’s selfdefense, yoga, and a meditation led by local community members.

Come join Naples BBYO on Thursdays at the Jewish Federation! Teens in grades 8-12 are welcome to join the weekly chapter meetings from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Contact Skylar Haas at shaas@bbyo.org for more information. Follow us on Instagram @Naples BBYO and like us on Facebook @ Naples BBYO.

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Naples BBYO Negev AZA members

Host families needed for the Israel Scouts Naples BBYO Sababa BBG members Federation’s Annual Community Celebration Saturday, January 31, 2015

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Visit www.issuu.com Enter “Federation Star” in the search box and click on the cover image of the issue you’d like to read. Then simply scroll through the pages.

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WE HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THIS SEASON’S TWO BIG EVENTS:

* * * * *

Evy Lipp People of T the Book Cultural Event SOLD OU Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Celebrating Jewish Life in Collier County, Israel and the World

Federation Star Published by the Jewish Federation of Collier County serving Naples, Marco Island and the surrounding communities

www.JewishNaples.org INSIDE THIS ISSUE: 4 6 7 14 20 23 23 25 28 30 30 32 34 35

6 WCA’s “Season” is off to a resounding start!

8 Subject of Israeli best-seller visits Naples

January 2015 - Tevet/Shevat 5775

Federation President

28 Naples BBYO teens at Regional Kallah

continued on page 2

Jeffrey Feld, Steven D. Goldberg, Rabbi Alexander Dukhovny, Judi Palay, Rabbi Adam Miller

The case for giving at the beginning of the year…and for giving more Alvin Becker

Israeli artist to exhibit at Estero Fine Art Show

Vol. 24 #5

Kiev rabbi makes connections By Carole J Greene

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

You can also read Connections on your tablet. Search for “Collier Connections”.

The Israel Scouts are coming to Naples on Tuesday, June 9! (See the article on page 3.) The hosting experience is oftentimes the most exciting and meaningful part of the Scouts’ visit. Community members are responsible for hosting the twelve Caravan members. The hosting relationship goes far beyond providing food and a bed – the host families become true surrogate families during their stay. Families love bringing the Caravan into their homes, getting to know the teens and learning more about Israel. It is a valuable and unforgettable experience. Responsibilities include dinner and sleeping arrangements on Tuesday night, June 9, breakfast the next day, and transportation to/from the events on both days. If you have youngsters or teens at home, this would be a real treat for them.

If you are interested in hosting one or more of the Scouts or team leaders, please contact Ted Epstein at fedstar18@gmail.com or 239.249.0699.

Preschool of the Arts update By Ettie Zaklos, Preschool Director

eflections from the Director At Preschool of the Arts we h strive to cultivate each of our gstudent’s intellectual, emotional, social -and moral potential. The exceptional individualized care that we invest in every single child, from when they walk lin the door as a toddler until the day they !walk out as a capable and school-ready rstudent, is truly one-of-a-kind. Step onto oour beautiful state-of-the-art campus nand you are no longer just a face in a crowd. You and your child are important nindividuals who make up the mosaic of our unique community. That community extends beyond y just our students and their families as awe are privileged to benefit from the esupport and partnership of the greater mNaples Jewish community. There is no better proof of that than our recent Gala Benefit Dinner. On Wednesday, March 18, we were honored by a tremendous turnout at the Ritz Carlton Resort for an elegant and fun evening of great food and even better company. Hailing from across the spectrum of the Naples Jewish community, our dinner guests came to show their support and celebrate Preschool of the Arts’ unique educational mission. The beauty of the event and the positive energy in the room highlighted how much our school has achieved and the important role we play in our students’ lives. It was a joy to see the outpouring of love and support for our devoted educational staff and we feel very lucky to have such a wonderful team of professionals as our educators. Our beloved Mrs. Kathy Abraham was honored with the first ever “Teacher of Excellence” award, which recognizes a dedicated educator who has shown exemplary

teaching practices in her classroom. Her much-deserved recognition was lauded by both past and present students and their families, and it was inspiring to see how appreciative our community is of her – and all of our teachers’ – special talents and loving care. “Community Helpers” month The value of community is an important theme at our preschool, and so we made March “Community Helpers” month. Throughout the month we explored the careers of the people who enhance our lives, expanding the children’s understanding of the world around them. We welcomed parents and members of our community to visit and share their careers with our students. The children heard from a banker, carpenter, property manager, scientist, pediatric dentist, pilot, police officer, trumpet player, firefighters, physical therapists, a Grammy Award-winning flutist, and even got to see live alligators with a visit from the conservancy. We are sure that the enriching experience left a lasting impression on our students and opened their eyes to new possibilities. Join our community! Our innovative programs and incredible staff are an open Naples secret, and our award-winning preschool has grown exponentially every year. Our classes have almost reached capacity enrollment for the 2015-2016 school year. With high demand and limited availability, we encourage prospective families to enroll today! For more information and to schedule a tour, call 239.263.2620. Summer of the Arts Get a taste of what makes Preschool of the Arts so popular at our unique Summer of the Arts experience! Our widely acclaimed program for children

ages 18 months-11 years integrates various creative arts and educational themes in a safe, multi-sensory and Jewish-spirited setting. Each week, our program offers children opportunities to experience music, swimming, art, culinary arts, sports, gymnastics and science through exciting, stimulating, hands-on activities. Younger children enjoy outdoor and water play and older children are taken on weekly trips to fun Naples attractions. Our Minors program (18 months-4 years) theme is Let’s Read! Each week,

children will have the opportunity to develop a love of reading as we introduce them to the world of literacy through exciting activities tied to each week’s author or book genre. Our Majors program (5-11 years) theme is Game On! It is designed around weekly themes connected to classic childhood games and children will enjoy fun-filled activities while developing a wide variety of new game-based skills. For more information or to register, please call 239.263.2620 or visit www. NaplesSummerOfTheArts.com.

Jewish Bedtime Stories & Songs for Families

The PJ Library program supports families in their Jewish journey by sending Jewishrelated books and music on a monthly basis to children for free.

Sponsered by

Arthur Susan Karp Th e PJ &Library is Family Charitable Foundation, Inc brought to the Collier A Supporting Foundation of County community The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee by Jewish Family & Visit the Federation website to sign up! Community Services www.jfedsrq.org of Southwest Florida. For more information, Follow us at facebook.com/pjlibraryofsarasota call 239.325.4444.

Federation Star May 2015

RABBINICAL REFLECTIONS / SYNAGOGUES

But who’s counting? Rabbi Ammos Chorny

he Torah does not permit us to count persons; people are not numbers. They are individual souls created in God’s image. We have tragically learned what happens when people cease to be human and become numbers. But the Torah mandates counting days, “And from the day on which you bring the sheaf of elevation offering, the day after the Sabbath, you shall count off seven weeks… until after the seventh week – fifty days: then you shall bring an offering of new grain to the Lord” (Lev. 23:15-16). We are now in that period, Sefirat HaOmer – when we count the days until the offering of new grain was to be

brought, encompassing the spring harvest season. Why count 50 days rather than having a specific date for bringing that offering? Evidently the Torah wanted to emphasize the sacred number seven – seven times seven – leading up to the 50th day which is another holy day – Shavuot, paralleling what happens on Sukkot when we have seven days and then the day after is a holiday, Sh’mini Atzeret. The Sages also called it Shavuot Atzeret. It is also similar to the Jubilee Year which is seven times seven years. Given that the numbers of days in the months were not determined in advance and could change from year to year depending on when the new moon was sighted, there could be no advanced fixed date for Shavuot, and still retain those numbers. Thus Shavuot is the only festival with no specific date assigned in the Torah, or an historical association. All of that came later. We are accustomed to the fact that Sefirah is a time of mourning, but that

too is nowhere mentioned in the Torah. The Talmud explains this as being connected to a time when there was a great plague which killed the disciples of Rabbi Akiba, a plague which ceased on Lag BaOmer (Yebamot 62b). For that reason some communities cease mourning at Lag BaOmer. It has been suggested that the sadness associated with Sefirah originated in ancient times from the fear that the harvest season would not be a good one. Whatever the reason, there is no hint of any of that in the Torah. Also, seven weeks seems a long time for mourning because of a plague when only three weeks of mourning are observed for the destruction of the Temple and the Exile from our land. For that reason the Rabbinical Assembly has preferred to associate the custom of mourning with the Holocaust – Yom HaShoah – and to end it then. Since the counting culminates in Shavuot, and since Shavuot has long been associated with the Revelation

SYNAGOGUES

at Sinai, it seems appropriate to use the practice of counting the days as a method of anticipating that unique event. Aside from the Exodus, there has been nothing of greater importance in our history than Sinai. We refer to it in our liturgy as “The Time of the Giving of Our Torah.” It was the time whenh we received the Decalogue as well asE many of the other mitzvot. A time whenS as Jews we accepted the obligation too become God’s holy people – the Sinais A Covenant. During the Exodus we became an free people. At Sinai we became a holyu nation. As Moses said, addressing the Israelites before they were to cross intop the land, “Has anything as grand ast this ever happened, or has its like everD been known?” (Deut. 4:32). To spendm seven weeks counting the days, antici-t pating that great event and consideringb what it means to us, seems time welli w spent. i b p c w

www.bethtikvahnaples.org / 239-434-1818

BETH TIKVAH

Beth Tikvah update Phil Jason President

ow is the time in the affairs of seasonally slanted Naples when synagogue leaders sadly wish a fond farewell to their members and friends who are returning to homes in northern climes. You are very important to us, and we will make every effort to stay in touch with you. We hope you miss us. At its annual membership meeting on Sunday, March 22, Beth Tikvah made a handful of leadership changes. I ascended from vice president to president. Justin Land was elected vice president. Rosalee Bogo and Stuart Kaye remain on the board as past presidents. We wish to thank them for their imagina-

tive and constructive service, and we must remind all that there would be no Beth Tikvah today without the valiant efforts of Stuart, our inspiring leader for a decade. We thank two board members who decided to make way for new leadership. Thanks to Norman Krivosha and Jerry Bogo for their dedication and insight. Stepping on to the board is Jeff Margolis, whom we are sure will be a great addition. At least one other board position will be filled and announced soon. Other continuing board members are Trisha Adkins, Karen Ezrine, Shelley Goodman, Sue Hammerman (secretary), Paulette Margulies, Neil Randall, Harvey Rosenthal (treasurer), Linda Scheinberg and David Sivakoff. How about that Naples Jewish Film Festival! Sold out again with high accolades from the attendees. We could have sold many more tickets if we had a larger venue. That search begins immediately. Thanks to Jay Kaye and her

The whole Megillah read at Beth Tikvah

team for what has become our flagship community event. Havdalah-on-the-Beach returns on June 20 at Lowdermilk Park at 7:30 p.m. Lag B’Omer picnic Our Lag B’Omer picnic will have a surprise venue: the home of Rabbi Ammos and Aviva Chorny. The event begins at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 7. As usual, we will provide a kosher picnic feast with burgers, hot dogs, and an abundance of accessories. Also, some holiday learning and holiday fun. RSVP to Judith at teach5063@aol.com. $15 per adult. Children under 13 free. Book Group On Monday, May 25 at 7:30 p.m. we discuss Prayers for the Living, a new novel by Alan Cheuse. Presented in a series of conversations between grandmother Minnie Bloch and her companions, Alan Cheuse, National Public Radio commentator on All Things Considered, unfolds a layered family portrait of three generations of the Bloch family, whose

Aviva Chorny with Purim revelers at Beth Tikvah

JEWISH CONGREGATION OF MARCO ISLAND

t t i h i

members are collapsing under everyday burdens and brutal betrayals. Her son Manny is a renowned, almost legendary rabbi. Respected by his congregants and surrounded by family, no one suspects that he yearns for a life of greater personal glory, but when an oracular birdB delivers what Manny believes to be a message from his deceased father, he abandons his congregation in pursuit of a life in business and his entire life spiw rals out of control. From Fig Tree press, o a new publisher of Jewish interest titles. o Shavuot s On Saturday, May 23, join us for a C Seuda Shlishit (3rd Shabbat meal) with c Shavuot Tikkun (Learning Session) at G 7:30 p.m. followed by the service at 8:30 p.m. RSVP for the meal. Yom Tov S on Sunday, May 24 begins at 9:00 a.m. b with Yizkor. b Religious Services Schedule Friday services begin at 6:15 p.m.; Saturday services begin at 9:30 a.m. and conclude with a Kiddush luncheon. Our Sunday morning minyan resumes in late fall. We regularly convene Yahrzeit minyanim upon request. Please join us at any service. Our participatory worship services and most other events are held at 1459 Pine Ridge Road, just west of Mission Square Plaza. For more information, call 239.434.1818, email bethtikvahnaples@aol.com or visit www.bethtikvahnaples.org. You can reach Rabbi Chorny directly at 239.537.5257.

www.marcojcmi.com / 239-642-0800

Jewish Congregation of Marco Island update By Sue R. Baum, President

assover is an important Jewish festival. It is a celebration of liberation, of life, of hope, of spring. This year, the Community Seder conducted by the Jewish Congregation of Marco Island was held on Friday, April 3. Over 130 people attended, including congregants and an outpouring of visitors from hotels, timeshares and guests in the area. As I looked around the room, I noted the participants were of all ages. Yes, we had a good number of children. The importance of the legacy of the Exodus was brought home by Rabbi Maline in his message: “The idea of

freedom from bondage and oppression came from the Hebrew people. The Hebrew people were the first to rebel against servitude.” We came together as a community to celebrate this rich heritage. The Seder was prepared by four congregants known as the Four Chefs. They have great culinary skills exhibited in Shabbat dinners and the Deli Fest. This Passover dinner, prepared by George Karpman, Don Schwartz, Bernie Seidman and Bert Thompson, was an example of home-made goodness and many recipes in the families for generations. Estee Karpman and Joan

Thompson prepared the matzoh balls. The coming together of so many in our Jewish community is a beautiful reminder that all generations value this story of freedom. It so important that the

Jewish Congregation of Marco Island offers the Jewish community the opportunity to sit as family at this traditional holiday table. That is why I am proud to lead this congregation.

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May 2015 Federation Star

SYNAGOGUES / ORGANIZATIONS CHABAD JEWISH CENTER OF NAPLES

www.chabadnaples.com / 239-262-4474

Chabad Jewish Center of Naples update

nnual Gala and Beneﬁt On Wednesday, March 18 we recognized our three special honorees for the year: Roni and Moriah Elias, Ellen Goldman-Savage and Sam Savage, and Kathy Abraham. We were overwhelmed by the show of love and support shown for our Preschool of the Arts’ goal to build a library, and for our new Aron Kodesh (Torah Ark) currently under construction. Guests enjoyed a wonderful cocktail party and then sat spellbound, listening to a heart-wrenching talk by Dan Alon. Dan, a fencer, is one of the surviving members of Israel’s 1972 Olympic Team that was almost completely decimated by the Black September terrorist group in the Munich Massacre. As familiar as we are with the story, we could never imagine the total horror as witnessed by Alon and his four friends as they planned and executed their daring escape, and the courage with which they were able to carry on with their lives. The hundreds of people who attended our special evening left knowing they had not only participated in assisting some of Chabad’s many projects, but had also witnessed a dynamic moment in our history.

Partners Project Event We think of our partners, old and new, as a special group. They never fail to support our endeavors and always step up to show their loyalty. Each year it is our pleasure to celebrate with gratitude, our ever-growing group of benefactors and supporters with a special evening where we honor and entertain members of the Partners Project. This year’s event will be held on Thursday, May 14. Call now – it’s not too late to become a member of this special group! Aron Kodesh Daily, we are coming closer to fulfilling construction of a beautiful new Aron Kodesh (Torah Ark) before the High Holidays. After months of intensive planning, our committee submitted a stunning yet practical design which will enhance our sanctuary. Take up the most generous challenge of the Elias and Yitzhak families, who have pledged to match your pledge with an equal amount up to $100,000. How can you resist! To join this important project or for more information, please call our office at 239.262.4474 or visit www. chabadnaples.com. Jewish Community Calendar Our annual art calendar will again be

distributed to the entire Naples Jewish community free of charge just prior to the High Holidays. The calendar offers a unique opportunity to connect with the Naples Jewish community with business advertisements or personal greetings. Friends and supporters of Chabad are encouraged to submit holiday greetings or add birthdays and Yarzheits to the calendar. Please call us for more information. See Israel - as you never have! Chabad Naples is currently compiling a list of people interested in a trip to Israel. Our confirmed dates are March 27 to April 5, 2016. The trip will be conducted by Rabbi Fishel, and planning to visit a lineup of people and places with religious, geographical and political impact such as you have never seen before. You may have been there,

but not done that! Now more than ever, we need to unite and stand strong with Israel! More details and information will be published soon, but as this firstclass tour will have limited availability, we would ask those who are seriously interested to contact the office. Hebrew School registration Registration for 2015-2016 is currently underway and prospective parents and students are invited to visit our Hebrew School on any Wednesday afternoon to observe our growing program and the happy faces of our Hebrew School students. Please call Ettie at 239.262.4474 to schedule a visit or for more information. Monday minyan We hold a regular Monday morning minyan in the Herstein Library at 8:00 a.m.

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.

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION

d s dBy Suzanne L. Paley, President a his has certainly been a very busy year for Naples Jewish Congref gation. For a small congregation we have been successful in providing , our members and guests with a variety . of activities in addition to our uplifting services, led by Rabbi Sylvin Wolf and a Cantorial Soloist Jane Galler, and ach companied by our Music Director, Alla t Gorelik Stadnik. t In April, we had a Community v Seder attended by close to 100 mem. bers and guests. This was followed by a Fashion Show and Luncheon on

www.naplesjewishcongregation.org / 239-234-6366

Naples Jewish Congregation update

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April 14, sponsored by our Men’s Club and Sisterhood, with fashions by Stein Mart of Bonita Springs and hair styles by Abracadabra Salon. It was a first for our congregation and was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended. On April 17 and 18, NJC was the proud sponsor of the letter “C” in the word CURE at the Naples Relay for Life celebration. Almost everyone has been affected by cancer in one way or another, so a big thank you to Marcy Berenson and several very generous members for affording us this opportunity to show our

support as a congregation. In April we also installed the Board of Directors of NJC for 2015-2016 and honored the outgoing members who served this past year. On the last Shabbat service of April, Jeffrey Feld, President/ CEO of the Jewish Federation of Collier County, will be our featured speaker. I want to remind everyone that as of May 1, we begin our “summer season” and only hold Shabbat services the last Friday of the month through August. In September we will resume our weekly worship services. Our Shabbat services

begin at 7:30 p.m. and we gather at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Greater Naples. Please join us for a Shabbat service and find out why “NJC is a place for you to belong!” An Oneg always follows our services, which gives everyone a chance to greet, meet and chat. For further information about Naples Jewish Congregation, please call 239.431.3858 or visit www.naplesjew ishcongregation.org.

ORGANIZATIONS ORT AMERICA – GULF BEACHES CHAPTER

www.ort.org / 239-649-4000

The ORT challenge

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Marina Berkovich ORT Gulf Beaches President

very time I sit down to write about ORT, I recall hundreds of my Bramson ORT students in New York. The majority of them were “fresh off the boat” immigrants, still confused by their unique journeys. Before 9-11, when I taught at Bramson and became the Dean of Administrative Services, my students came from China, Romania, the former Soviet Union, Albania and Bulgaria. I had a Tibetan nun once, but I never had, nor did I hear of, a French student in any of the ORT schools in the U.S. Students I met while working there came to America because they were escaping their circumstances in the country of their birth, and wanted to make safer and better lives for themselves. Most ORT students then were not Jewish, but that never kept ORT from educating, since ORT knows the root of finding ultimate peace is in education.

France, only a little over a decade ago, was a safe and very desired country, and there was nothing one would call an “exodus from France.” Since then, I have heard of countless exodus stories of Christians and Jews leaving, especially from the south. Their homeland has become unsafe. In his recent article “Is it time for Jews to leave Europe,” published in The Atlantic in April, Jeffrey Goldberg reflected on his visit to the Daniel Mayer School, an ORT vocational high school in Paris, on the morning of January 9, 2015, just two days after the Charlie Hebdo massacre. “In France,” Goldberg writes, “ORT schools educated a generation of Polish and Russian survivors of the Holocaust; today, they primarily educate the children of North African Jews.” This ORT school was a safe haven for the Jewish children of the Shoah, and today continues to be so regarded by the 17 and 18-year-olds, who are being harassed nearly everywhere outside of it. Here they are being trained as opticians, dental technicians, accountants or computer programmers, as ORT has done since the 1880s – providing

training for in-demand professions to its graduates. Yet most French Jewish youths do not see their future lives in the anti-Semitic Europe. Their parents are moving them away to the only place on this planet where it is okay for Jews to be Zionistic. Quebec and the U.S. are also the destinations they consider, Goldberg notes. A student interviewed that morning shares, “Two years ago they attacked my brother. They would always scream, ‘Go back to your country.’ They meant Israel.” According to Goldberg, 7,000 French Jews left for Israel in 2014.

Jewish children in France hear calls to “kill the Jews,” and “dirty Jew” on a daily basis. Later on January 9 the entire Jewish world was held hostage at a kosher deli in Paris. One of the dead there was an ORT school graduate. ORT America Gulf Beaches Chapter 2015 fundraising efforts benefit ORT in Israel. Please help us with our financial challenge by mailing your renewal or donation check (payable to ORT America) to Hella Amelkin, 3200 Gulfshore Blvd. N., #307, Naples, FL 34103.

ORT America (Organization for Rehabilitation through Training) Did you know that:  ORT supports 300,000 students annually in 56 countries by providing technical education that emphasizes employable skills?  ORT’s most famous (and least publicized) mission was to educate Holocaust victims in DP camps so they were able to move on with their lives?  ORT America has four college campuses in the U.S., including two in New York, one in Chicago and one in Los Angeles, that serve the most vulnerable communities?  ORT America is active in Southwest Florida? Please attend Gulf Beaches Chapter events and support ORT’s educational mission. Help ORT raise funds to save lives through education. To join/renew/transfer, please contact ORT America Gulf Beaches Chapter President Marina Berkovich at 239.566.1771, or Membership Chair Marebe Crouse at 239.263.4959. Please visit www.ortamerica.org for a virtual ORT experience.

Federation Star May 2015

ORGANIZATIONS www.hadassah.org / 239-598-1009

COLLIER/LEE CHAPTER OF HADASSAH

Hadassah update Lynn Weiner

Collier/Lee Hadassah President

s the season is winding down, the Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah had two very successful fundraisers. On Sunday, March 8, Shana and Shlomo got married at the Wedding of the Year and donated all of their gifts to Hadassah! Attendees enjoyed the wedding spoof, ate, laughed and danced the night away for a great cause. Thank you to everyone who participated by helping, attending and donating. It was truly a party with a purpose! We will keep you posted on how Shana and Shlomo are doing. At the Spring Luncheon on Tuesday, March 24, we held the Epicurean Adventure drawing. Drawing tickets were sold throughout the season for the chance to win multiple restaurant dining experiences at many fine local restaurants. The first, second and third prize winners received gift baskets with gift certificates and items worth over $1,000 each that were donated by local restaurants. Other winners won gift certificates to dine at one or more restaurants. Thank you to co-Chairs extraordinaire Barbara Kronenfeld and Rhonda Brazina who spearheaded the

drawing fundraiser and the people who obtained restaurant certificates and sold tickets. Both of these “grassroots fundraisers” help us to reach our Chapter Goal to support Hadassah projects and Hadassah Medical Organization in the U.S. and Israel. Those who attended the Spring Luncheon were treated to an informative and topical program by Dr. Timothy Schoen, Director of Constituent Communications for the Foundation Fighting Blindness. He shared current research and treatment for eye diseases such as macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. One of the doctors he spoke about is Professor Eyal Banin, head of Hadassah Medical Organization’s Center in Jerusalem for Retinal and Macular Degeneration. Professor Banin’s groundbreaking stem cell treatment for age-related macular degeneration, that can cause visual impairment and blindness, has been approved by the FDA for its first clinical trial. If successful, this would be the first therapy of this type to address this form of macular degeneration that affects 90% of the people who have this common disease. Dr. Schoen also described current new treatments for eye diseases that are being worked on by doctors around the world and answered questions from the audience. Thanks to Elyse Morande, our Education/Program Vice President, for bringing us such an important speaker. This year we have instituted a

local service project to help JFCS of Southwest Florida by encouraging members to bring food, toiletries and other items to our meetings that are then sent to JFCS. Chair Ruth Stockinger has worked tirelessly to insure that the needy in our community are given a helping hand. Our Daytime Study Group has recently begun a new topic of study of Bruce Feiler’s acclaimed book, A Journey to the Heart of Three Faiths. The group meets on the third Monday of the month for lunch (optional) at 11:30 a.m. at First Watch on the corner of Pine Ridge and Livingston Roads in Naples, and the discussion takes place at 1:00 p.m. at Temple Shalom. Please contact Arlene Yedid at arleney2001@ embarqmail.com if you would like to attend. The Evening Activity Group has a different activity each month. Some recent activities have included a discussion on angels in the bible, a tour of the local mikvah, Safari Night, Israeli Night. May’s activity will be Shabbat Under the Stars. Contact Lauren Becker at 239.592.5304 for more information and to be put on the email list. Thank you Arlene and Lauren for coordinating these programs. Watch for several activities that we are planning for those of you who are here over the summer months. To join Hadassah, upgrade to Life Membership, or give a membership to

a daughter, son, granddaughter, grandson, husband, parent or friend, contact Donna Goldblatt at mom443@aol.com. Annual Membership is $36 and Life and Associate Affiliate Membership for men and boys is $212. Have a happy Shavuos!

Jewish War Veterans meeting

Please join us at our next meeting, Sunday, May 17 at 9:30 a.m. at the Federation oﬃces, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Ste. 2201, Naples.

www.jhsswf.org / 239-566-1771

JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF SWFL

What’s in a word? Marina Berkovich JHSSWF President

istory – from Greek historia, means knowledge acquired by investigation. Many periods of history are forever under investigation, because knowledge about them is limited. “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it,” wrote George Santayana, philosopher and essayist regarded for his somewhat pragmatic views as well as his admiration of the works of Spinoza, whom he held as role model. These two men were separated by centuries, yet, that is exactly an example of a historic transcendence, which those who strive to preserve

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history, very diligently capture and convey. Would Spinoza question the presence of Santayana’s sign at Auschwitz? Historian means an expert in or student of history, especially that of a particular period, geographical region or social phenomenon. Spinoza believed that nothing in the world happens by chance. In his final book, he left a cryptic message for his historians to investigate. I wish he left us a story on DVD. Story is a recounting of a sequence of events. Unlike Santayana or Spinoza, we have modern technology to gather stories that will be some day used by those who will study the history of Southwest Florida, our particular period, or our social phenomenon, i.e., the emergence of a Jewish community in our time in our region. I marvel at how much more accurate their investigation of knowledge would become when we leave them a

Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida Membership Form

Please send your check (payable to JHSSWF) and this form to: Jewish Historical Society of SWFL 899 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 116 Naples, FL 34108 Phone: 239.566.1771 Email: jhsswf@gmail.com Online: www.JHSSWF.org

clear trail for their studies of our collective story. In my native language, history and story are the same word. It encompasses all of the meanings and keeps its natural Greek sound ἱστορία in its Russian use история (pronounced: istoria). My interest in history, therefore, has always been inseparable from the accounts of history by its witnesses, who love to tell me their stories, or those who share it somewhat reluctantly, guarding their accounts of circumstances and facts; and sometimes interpreting them in an unpredictable way, maybe for their own personal slant, or to just be somehow different. If only I had a chance to interview Baruch Spinoza about being a Jew, the Inquisition or the Catholic ban on his writings. I wonder what stories he would tell and how they’d hold up to the role he now has in history. What a wonderful interview that would have made!

 Student - $9  Individual - $36

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Too bad he is not contemporaneously s available to sit for it. Many residents of Southwest Flor-J ida who were witnesses to this earlyJ Jewish community are providing their stories. As a Jew who hears all kinds of accounts about our geographical area’s emergence of Jewish presence and culture, I would like to capture as many stories as possible that will be of future historical interest to this community, Jewish and at-large. If you think you have a story, please call me at 239.566.1771. Summer is good for long conversations. For more information about the Society, visit www.JHSSWF.org. The Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida, Inc. is a Section 501(c)(3) organization. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Membership Application 2015 Membership Level:

 Family - $54  Sponsor - $162

Name(s): _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ Company (if applicable): _________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________ City: _____________________________ State: _____ Zip Code ____________ Florida home phone:____________________________________________ Cell phone: ___________________________________________________ Email: _________________________________________________________

The Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida, Inc. is a Section 501(c)(3) organization. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

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May 2015 Federation Star

ORGANIZATIONS

239-353-5963 / 239-354-9117

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN

National Council of Jewish Women update By Linda Wainick, co-President

e ushered in spring with our annual fashion show, which was a wonderful success. We enjoyed a delicious lunch provided by the Vineyards, and had an opportunity to bid on fabulous raffles. Thanks to Casual Connection for the fresh fashions to welcome spring, which were modeled by our own members who looked terrific in every outfit. They were Roberta Borz, Ellen Gurnitz, Jeri Hall, Judy Kaufman, Ruth Ruskin and Hedy Weinberger. Thanks to our committee, chaired by Bobbie Katz: Carol Emerson, Carolyn

Greenberg, Ellen Gurnitz, Muriel Hurwich, Carol Klein and Linda Wainick. Special thanks for everyone who assisted, arranged for raffles, and all who attended. Once again, the fashion show was in memory of our dear friend, Doris Feuer. NCJW in Israel - Update on NCJW’s Israel granting program Israel Hofshit - Freedom of Marriage Campaign: A recent project included couples who shared their personal wedding stories of how they could not, or why they would not, get married in

HUMANISTIC JEWISH HAVURAH

Israel. This project has had two major impacts: 1) It has raised an enormous amount of awareness among the general Israeli public of truly how many people, including people they know, are negatively impacted by the current restrictive and coercive system of marriage and divorce. 2) It has empowered many couples to speak up and become leaders in the movement to win freedom of choice in marriage in Israel so that Israelis can

enjoy the basic human right to marry the partner of their choice, in the way that they choose. NCJW grantee Women of the Wall leads the struggle for women’s equal rights in the public sphere, and specifically at the Western Wall. Last year saw a historic first at the Kotel: the first bat mitzvah in the women’s section, complete with a Torah reading. This was a watershed moment for women in Israel, and resonated with Jews all over the world.

www.humanisticjewishhavurahswfl.org / 239-398-3935

Having the strength to cope Paula Creed HJH President

t 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 10, the Humanistic Jewish Havurah of Southwest Florida invites the community to view Divided We Fall, a 2000 Academy Award-nominee for Best Foreign Film. Carole Soling, a member of the Havurah, selected this movie as appropriate because of its distinctive portrayal of our Humanist philosophy. She will introduce the film and lead a thought-provoking discussion afterwards. Reservations can be made by contacting Dena Sklaroff at denas27@aol.com or 239.591.0101. The film, set in wartime Czechoy slovakia, is the work of a director Jan Hrdbejk, and a screenwriter, Petr Jarchovshy, who were both still in their

prams when the Russian tanks rolled into Prague in 1968. Hrebejk adopted the screenplay from his novel of the same title. The two, working in the rich Czech tradition of absurdist humanism, construct a universe booby-trapped with impossible choices and ethical puzzles. Ebert & Rogers gave this movie “Two Thumbs UP!” “With an engrossing, historically-charged story and subtle yet stirring performances, this is a film of depth and humanity that you’ll never forget.” A.O Scott, in his New York Times film review, wrote, “…many movies about the Nazi period tend to offer the comfort of clear moral distinctions, dividing the world into innocent victims, monstrous villains, cowardly collaborators and heroes of resistance. Of course, life is never so simple, and one of the many virtues of Divided We Fall is that it scrambles such facile categories almost beyond recognition.” The characters in this film are faced with incomprehensible and unexpected

circumstances that present many dilemmas. How they cope and how they survive make for a very intriguing story. Humanistic Jews acknowledge we live in a world without a moral order. Laws of nature are part of the physical order, but the laws of nature have no moral agenda. The law of gravity is as willing to cooperate with good people as with bad people. It will allow food supplies to be dropped on needy refugees. It will, just as easily, permit evil men to throw innocent victims off parapets. Realistic people do not fight reality. They may prefer it to be different, but they are willing to work with what they have. If they want to change it or improve it, they have to start where the world is, not where their expectations are. We cannot punish reality by getting angry at it. Realism is the willingness to face the facts as they are – not as we want them to be. It is also the willingness to take them seriously, to let them be the foundation of how we choose to live.

Being realistic is being rational. Rational people are always concerned about two things: their willingness to face the facts and the consequences of their behavior. It is not easy to be realistic. It requires great courage. The courage to face facts and not run away from them is the source of our dignity and self-respect. If we see ourselves as brave enough to confront reality, and not run away, then we feel our strength and become less afraid of what we cannot change. The life of courage is hard. But, it is, ultimately, rewarding. It makes us pay attention to our own experience. It makes it easy for us to admit the truth. It notices our strength. It protects our dignity. It enables us to assume responsibility for our own lives. It celebrates our own power. It makes us sane in the face of the crazy world. Facing the trials of living requires extraordinary strength and courage.

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JEWISH WOMEN INTERNATIONAL

www.jwi.org / 239-498-2778

JWI helps student groups heading to Capitol Hill to speak on college sexual assault

Millie Sernovitz

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JWI Past International President

eatly dressed in suits and ties, high school and college students waited patiently at the end of March in Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s office on Capitol Hill. The group was ready to impress the importance of an issue that weighed on their minds – sexual assault on college campuses. The students were among about 40 that trekked to Washington, D.C., on Friday, March 27, as part of an effort by Jewish Women International (JWI), the Zeta Beta Tau (ZBT) fraternity and Aleph Zadik Aleph (AZA), a program under the Jewish teen movement BBYO. Both the young men in college and those soon headed to campuses participated in the event called “Brother to Brother,” which encompassed training, discussion and trips to the offices of five senators on the Senate Judiciary Committee.

One teen from Rockville, Maryland, and the event’s founder said the goal of Friday’s sessions with congressional staff members was to share personal stories to help spur national lawmakers to vote for legislation on the issue. They are not pushing for any particular bill. March’s effort was also important to help the young men involved understand that their voices can be heard by legislators and they can make a difference. The young men took turns sharing their thoughts with a staffer. Another young man said it’s important that those who have been sexually assaulted “get justice” and help with their recovery. Before they broke off into groups for the office visits, the students discussed the idea of intervening in situations to prevent sexual assault. It’s “crucial” for the next generation of male college students to not only be informed about the issue of sexual assault at colleges, but to know “how to take a stand” when they see a situation. Robin Rubin, manager of advocacy at Jewish Women International, said violence against women on college campuses has grown over the past decade.

Jewish Women International’s work includes legislative advocacy and other efforts to end sexual assault on college campuses. “We’re never going to end this epidemic without the help of our young men,” Rubin said. The end of March marked an opportunity for the young men to “lend their voice to the debate” and let members of Congress know they want to see such violence end. Lawmakers have only previously heard from victims of sexual assault. This program was inspiring to have high school students team up with the fraternity brothers. The boys also went to the White House on Thursday, April 9 to meet with the staff from “It’s On Us,” President Obama’s call to action for men around ending sexual assault on college campuses. The young men in college talked to the staff about their “Safe Smart Dating” program, spearheaded by JWI – how it has raised awareness and changed the culture in their fraternities. The high school boys will ask “It’s On Us” to also direct information to high school students and incorporate awareness campaigns on teen dating abuse

because awareness and education and bystander intervention needs to start before the boys get to college. To learn more about the JWI’s “Brother to Brother” or “Safe Dating” programs or other JWI endeavors locally and nationally, please contact me 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.

Jerusalem Post Crossword Puzzle Solution to puzzle on page 13

For a continuously updated community calendar, visit the Federation’s website at www.jewishnaples.org.

Federation Star May 2015

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

May 2015 – 5775Get the Service you Deserve SUNDAY MONDAY Candle lighting times:

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY 1

May 1: 7:41 May 8: 7:45 May 15: 7:48 May 22: 7:52 May 29: 7:56 3

1:30pm HDH Board Mtg 5:30pm JCMI Bingo

10:00am TS-S Board Mtg 12:15pm BT Torah Study 1:30pm CJD Steering Cmte 4:00pm JFCC Exec Cmte

9:00am BT Religious School 11:00am CHA Partner Brunch 2:00pm HJH Comm Mtg

10:30am JFCS Naples Jewish 10:00am Jewish Genealogy Caring Support Group 11:30am TS-S Luncheon 5:30pm JCMI Bingo 12:00pm JCMI-S Lunch Mtg 12:15pm BT Torah Study 7:30pm JFCC Meeting

24 SHAVUOT

26 25 SHAVUOT MEMORIAL DAY 12:15pm BT Torah Study

9:00am BT Religious School 1:00pm Sababa BBG Mind Body Attitude 2:00pm NJC Theater Party

9:00am BT Religious School 9:30am JWV Meeting 9:30am TS Religious School Confirmation 10:00am BT Rosh Chodesh 1:30pm HM Reception

9:00am BT Services Yizkor 10:00am CHA Services & Lunch

12:00pm NJC-S Book Club 1:00pm HDH Study Group 5:30pm JCMI Bingo

10:00am CHA Services 10:30am JFCS Naples Jewish Caring Support Group 1:00pm CHA Yizkor 5:30pm JCMI Bingo 7:30pm BT Book Group

12:15pm BT Torah Study 7:00pm TS Exec Cmte Mtg

7:00pm TS Board Mtg

11:30am ORT Board Mtg 5:30pm HJH Potluck Shabbat 6:15pm BT Services 6:30pm TS Shir Shabbat 7:30pm CHA 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

1:00pm JCMI Bridge 1:30pm JCRC Meeting 4:30pm BT Youth Ed Program 4:30pm CHA Hebrew School 5:00pm TS Hebrew School 8:00pm BT Adult Ed

11:00am JCMI Mah Jongg 5:00pm BT Picnic

7 Lag B’Omer

SATURDAY

10:00am TS Mother’s Day Brunch 6:15pm BT Services 7:30pm CHA Services 7:30pm TS Services 8:00pm JCMI Services

9:30am BT Services 9:30am JCMI Services 10:00am CHA Services 10:00am TS Services

9:30am HJH Board Mtg 1:00pm JCMI Bridge 4:30pm BT Youth Ed Program 4:30pm CHA Hebrew School 5:00pm TS Hebrew School

11:00am CHA Women’s Circle 11:00am JCMI Mah Jongg 1:00pm NJC Board Mtg 3:00pm HM Exec Cmte Mtg 5:30pm HDH Evening Group

6:15pm BT Services 7:30pm CHA Services 7:30pm TS Services 8:00pm JCMI Services

9:30am BT Services 9:30am JCMI Services 10:00am CHA Services 10:00am TS Services

1:00pm JCMI Bridge 4:30pm BT Youth Ed Program 4:30pm CHA Hebrew School 8:00pm BT Adult Ed

1:00pm JCMI Bridge 4:30pm BT Youth Ed Program

11:00am JCMI Mah Jongg 12:00pm NJC Men’s Mtg 1:30pm TS-S Bookbag 4:00pm BT Board Mtg

11:00am JCMI Mah Jongg 3:00pm HM Board Mtg 7:00pm JCMI Board Mtg

9:00am TS Pre-K Graduation 6:15pm BT Services 7:30pm CHA Services 7:30pm TS Services 8:00pm JCMI Services

9:30am CHA Pre-K Graduation 6:15pm BT Services 7:30pm CHA Services 7:30pm NJC Services 7:30pm TS Services 8:00pm JCMI Services

9:30am BT Services 9:30am JCMI Services 10:00am CHA Services 10:00am TS Services

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-M: Chabad Men’s Club • CJD: Catholic/Jewish Dialogue • HDH: Hadassah • HJH: Humanistic Jewish Havurah • HM: Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida • JCMI: Jewish Congregation of Marco Island

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.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS WHO HELP MAKE THE FEDERATION STAR POSSIBLE. Be sure to mention you saw their ad in the Federation Star.

• JCMI-M: JCMI Men’s Club • JCMI-S: JCMI Sisterhood • JCRC: Jewish Community Relations Council • JFCC: Jewish Federation of Collier County • JFCS: Jewish Family & Community Services • JNF: Jewish National Fund • JWV: Jewish War Veterans • MCA: Men’s Cultural Alliance • 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.

Create a Jewish Legacy I give, devise and bequeath… Create a legacy to benefit the Jewish Federation of Collier County and our overall Jewish community in your will or trust. Call 239.263.4205. "I did not find the world desolate when I entered it. And as my parents planted for me before I was born, so do I plant for those who will come after me." -The Talmud

• 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.

May 2015 Federation Star

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY 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 Neil Shnider, President 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 Naples’ only Judaica Shop

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

JEWISH CONGREGATION OF MARCO ISLAND

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION

BETH TIKVAH

991 Winterberry Drive Marco Island, FL 34145 Phone: 642-0800  Fax: 642-1031 Email: mgr.jcmioffice@embarqmail.com Website: www.marcojcmi.com

Services are held at: The Unitarian Congregation 6340 Napa Woods Way Rabbi Sylvin Wolf Ph.D, DD 431-3858 Email: rabbi@naplesjewishcongregation.org www.naplesjewishcongregation.org

1459 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34109

(Reform)

Rabbi Edward M. Maline, DD Hari Jacobsen, Cantorial Soloist Sue Baum, President Shabbat Services Friday 8:00 p.m. Torah Study and Saturday Services Sisterhood • Men’s Club Brownstein Judaica Gift Shop

Shabbat Services Friday evenings at 6:15 p.m. Saturday mornings at 9:30 a.m.

Sisterhood • Men’s Club Adult Education • Adult Choir Social Action • Community Events

Youth Education Adult Education Community Events

Play Ball Runs. Hits. Errors. That’s what they tally in the score box.

Here’s our pitch.

Volume 24, No. 9 May 2015 28 pages USPS Permit No. 419 Publisher: Jewish Federation of Collier County Editor: Ted Epstein, 239-249-0699 fedstar18@gmail.com Design: Federation Media Group, Inc. Advertising: Ted Epstein 239-249-0699 June Issue Deadlines: Editorial: May 4 Advertising: May 7 Send news stories to: fedstar18@gmail.com

Phone: 434-1818 Email: bethtikvahnaples@aol.com Website: www.bethtikvahnaples.org

Shabbat Services Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m. May - August: services once a month

Shabbat Services Shabbat - Saturday 10am

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

(just west of Mission Square Plaza)

Rabbi Ammos Chorny Phil Jason, President Sue Hammerman, Secretary

Rabbi Fishel Zaklos Dr. Arthur Seigel, President Ettie Zaklos, Education Director

The Federation Star is published monthly, September through July, by the Jewish Federation of Collier County.

(Conservative)

Suzanne Paley, President Jane Galler, Cantorial Soloist

In the game of estate planning, striking out is not an alternative. We don’t want to see you sitting on the bench or out in left field in the late innings. The single most important thing you can do to triple your satisfaction is to redouble your efforts to include a lifetime gift or bequest to benefit the Jewish community through the Endowment Fund of the Federation.

• 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

We’ve dugout a number of seasoned estate planning hits on which we can coach you, and on which you can base your decisions. Go ahead and bat this ball around. There’s no easy out if you want to hit a home run with your estate plan. Keep your eye on the ball…after our umpire asks you to play ball!...we’ll be cheering as you cross the plate a winner. Hot dog! For information on planning and charitable giving, call Jeffrey Feld, President/CEO, at 239.263.4205.

Please note our email addresses: Jeffrey Feld, Federation President/CEO – jfeld@jewishnaples.org Jill Saravis, Community Program Coord. – jill@jewishnaples.org Iris Doenias, Database Manager – iris@jewishnaples.org Deborah Vacca, Bookkeeper – deborah@jewishnaples.org General information requests – info@jewishnaples.org Federation Star advertising – jacqui1818@gmail.com Ted Epstein, Editor, Federation Star – fedstar18@gmail.com

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Jewish Organizations to Serve You in Collier County

(All area codes are 239 unless otherwise noted.)

Jewish Federation of Collier County Phone: 263-4205  Fax: 263-3813 Website: www.jewishnaples.org Email: info@jewishnaples.org • Federation Board Chair: Alvin Becker • Federation President/CEO: Jeffrey Feld

American Technion Society

• Chapter Dir: Jennifer Singer, 941-378-1500

Collier-Lee Chapter of Hadassah • President: Lynn Weiner, 598-1009

Friends of the IDF • Exec. Dir.: Dina Ben Ari, 305-354-8233

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, 354-4300

Jewish Family and Community Services of Southwest Florida Phone: 325-4444 • Chairperson: Richard A. Goldblatt • President/CEO: Dr. Jaclynn Faffer

Jewish National Fund

• West/Central FL Office, 800-211-1502 Uri ext 8910, Beth ext 8911

Jewish War Veterans Post 202,Collier Co. Chapter

• Commander, Gil Block, 304-5953 • Senior Vice Commander, M/Gen. Bernard L. Weiss, USAF Ret. 594-7772

Men’s Cultural Alliance

• President: Steve Brazina, 325-8694

Naples Friends of American Magen David Adom (MDA)

• SE Reg Dir: Joel Silberman, 954-457-9766

National Council of Jewish Women • Co-President: Bobbie Katz, 353-5963 • Co-President: Linda Wainick, 354-9117

ORT - Gulf Beaches Chapter

• President: Marina Berkovich, 566-1771

Women’s Cultural Alliance

• President: Elaine Soffer, 431-7905

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 Annual Federation Campaign in our community. For more information, call the Federation office at 239.263.4205.

Federation Star May 2015

WE CONNECT YOU WITH THE

rhythm OF JEWISH LIFE.

Share a Jewish book with a toddler. Teach Hebrew to a teen in Moscow. Bring a holiday program to a senior center. Connect young adults in 70 countries with Israel and their Jewish heritage.

We increase access to Jewish learning and culture. We work with our partners to support institutions here and overseas that shape and strengthen Jewish identity: camps, schools, youth clubs, Hillels and community centers. We also support Jewish cultural programming, including family retreats, PJ Library and youth trips to Israel, like Birthright. We are determined to touch as many people as we can with these opportunities. We help foster Jewish identity in Israel. We support Jewish education in state secular schools, summer camps and early childhood family programs. We help provide Jewish heritage programs for at-risk youths and immigrants, and support pluralistic academies and cultural programs.

We identify new ways to engage young people. Communities all over the world are struggling with the challenge of reaching children and young adults who are disengaged. At the same time, many young people who only recently learned they are Jewish are hungry to learn more. Together we’re nurturing Jewish life around the world. Your gift helps bring young Jewish people together from Israel and around the world. They study, work on service projects, develop leadership skills and celebrate their peoplehood, injecting life into a global Jewish renaissance. Help us strengthen and celebrate Jewish life. Donate now at www.JewishFederations.org.

Donate. Volunteer. Get involved. www.jewishnaples.org • 239.263.4205

YOU MAKE IT POSSIBLE!

Everything Federation does is made possible through the generous donations from members of the community. Please consider making a gift today!

FS0515

 I hereby pledge and promise to pay my Federation for the 2015 JFCC/UJA Annual Campaign a contribution of:  $36  $72  $180  $540  other $_________  Contribution enclosed (Check #__________)  Please charge my:

 MasterCard

 Visa

 Please bill me  American Express

Jewish Federation may add a 3% donation to my payment to offset credit card service fee _____ (initials or √ denote authorization)

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 THE JEWISH FEDERATIONS OF NORTH AMERICA