Chai Life Fall 2013 by Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County

Volume 9 • Issue 1 Fall 2013

SANDLER FAMILY MAJOR GIFTS EVENT

Featuring David Gergen

CUBAN CONNECTION EJP’s Momentous Mission

HOME SWEET HOME

Kramers Place their Legacy with JJCF

COURAGE TO REMEMBER The Community Commemorates

OUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT

As Young Leaders Shine 9901 Donna Klein Boulevard Boca Raton, Florida 33428

1. Bryan Drowos 2. Richard D. Steinberg 3. Gail Greenspoon 4. Robin Rubin 5. David Pratt 6. Debra Halperin

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7. Elyssa Kupferberg 8. Kenneth Pritzker 9. Joel H. Yudenfreund 10. Emily Grabelsky 11. Rebecca Appelbaum 12. Amy Ross

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13. Kathy Green 14. Eric Stein Photo Credit: Jeff Tholl Photography Location: The Loft at Congress

G N I L SELAST, mes F tment ho

par y sold! a 0 4 1 alread 0

SINAI RESIDENCES IS UNDERWAY â&#x20AC;Ś AND THATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S JUST PART OF THE EXCITING NEWS. You can still save $50,000 or more before December 31, 2013! Site work is beginning now on the most prestigious address in the area. Sinai Residences of Boca Raton will provide an unparalleled, five-star resort retirement lifestyle and a future filled with peace of mind. From sophisticated living options to luxurious amenities and innovative programs, no detail is being compromised to enrich the way you want to live and bring confidence for your future. A crowning jewel on the campus of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. Sinai Residences of Boca Raton is scheduled to open in the fall of 2015, which makes this the perfect time to learn more about what our upscale community will offer and take advantage of pre-construction pricing. View floor plans on our website: www.SinaiResidences.com. Residences are selling quickly . . . in fact, five apartment home floor plans are already sold out! You can see a sampling of available plans on our website. The time to act is now, while customizations are available. You can still alter the design of your floor plan and choose your personal finishes before construction begins.

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Lock in Life Care for lifetime security. Sinai Residences is a planned Life Care community which makes it even more distinctive. Residents can be assured of first-rate health care at predictable monthly costs, for life. This brings uncompromised peace of mind for the on-the-go lifestyle you lead today with access to future care at a known cost. Limited-time options make right now the opportune time to reserve. Pre-construction Charter Member discounts are available . . . $50,000 or more in value . . . when you plan ahead.

SAVE $50,000 OR MORE NOW before December 31, 2013 when prices rise. Hurry! Call (561) 922-7156 for an appointment while you can still reserve a residence.

A BRAND-NEW WAY LIVING HAS BEGUN. The savings end soon, but the value of the lifestyle lasts forever. This future resident offers her perspective. A professional educator since she was 17 years old, Myrna Goldberger is not your run-of-the-mill history teacher. She has taught every grade level, operated her own tutoring business for 52 years, and most recently, belonged to one of the most esteemed adult education programs in the country for the last 21 years.

Myrna Goldberger

Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, where she completed undergraduate studies and received advanced degrees, Myrna raised three children with her husband, Arnold, then moved to Florida where she remained following Arnold’s passing.

CALL TODAY (561) 922-7156 to get to know our community better . . . the

Myrna was accepted by the Lifelong Learning Society to teach in their program when she arrived in Florida and now lectures primarily to seniors at retirement communities, country clubs, synagogues and more.

best time to call

“Sinai Residences is a place where I will meet new people, and people will be with or near me all the time,” says the extrovert. “My future neighbors are just wonderful. I’ve already been invited to a concert and to play Bridge on several occasions.”

consultation is

As a lifelong learner, she is also looking forward to the community’s offerings; being able to attend educational programs, musical presentations and book discussions complement her lifestyle. “Besides its convenient location, it has the added benefit of being on the secure campus of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County,” she says. The location is not the only reason Myrna feels safe with Sinai. “Without having my family here, Life Care is a big attraction,” she says. “If I fall when I’m alone, who’s going to know it? Whereas, I know I will be taken care of at Sinai Residences.” Freedom is another attractive feature Myrna points out. While her mind will be free from worry, her days will be free from repairs or responsibilities. She anticipates her move to Sinai Residences will provide an upbeat environment where she will continue to flourish. Myrna has every reason to believe her best years still lie ahead.

for a personal right now while you can still take advantage of limited-time discounted pricing.

I N FOR M AT ION CENTER : 21090 St. Andrews Blvd., Suite 1 • Boca Raton, FL 33433 • www.SinaiResidences.com Phone: (561) 922-7156 • Fax: (561) 338-9596

SERVE WARM MEALS.

DELIVER MEDICINE.

GIVE HUGS TO SENIORS A WORLD AWAY.

BEFORE YOUR ALARM GOES OFF. It only takes a minute to help seniors stay connected to community and continue living in their own homes, Meanwhile, you’ll nurture Jewish learning, fund food programs, offer job training — just a few of the solutions the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County supports with heart, innovation and decades of knowing what works. It’s time: Donate. Volunteer. Get involved. Your link to getting started: JewishBoca.org

jewishboca.org

facebook.com/jewishboca

@JewishBoca 3 CHAILIFE

WELCOME TO CHAI LIFE This publication is produced by the Marketing & Communications Department of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County.

A NEW DAY… A NEW VISION For the past year, we’ve been talking about reaching a new day at Federation – a time when we emerge from the challenges of a fledgling Jewish community and an economic downturn to become a stronger, more cohesive “community builder” - that brings us together to care for each other today as well as tomorrow. That day has come. Thanks to extraordinary support from our neighbors and community partners, Federation is poised to move from strength to greater strength. We’re meeting more of our Jewish family’s vital needs while planning and securing resources for their future. The community knows we’re a strong investment. Our 2013 Annual Campaign saw a significant increase – the first in several years, and our endowments are on the rise. Our recent, coveted 4-star Charity Navigator rating certifies that we “exceed industry standards and outperform most charities….” We’re proud to say our future looks bright. That future is reflected by our new Vision and Mission statements. Not to be buried in a board manual or deep in our website, these short paragraphs will be instrumental in everything we do. We invite you to read them below and, if you’re inspired as we are by our leadership’s meticulous crafting, get involved in helping us fulfill our noble mission. Get engaged, give generously, leave a legacy, volunteer, take the lead, become a sponsor – anything you‘re moved to do. There’s a place for you. Your community needs you. And we can’t fulfill our mission without you. B’Shalom,

PUBLISHED FALL, WINTER & SPRING

Senior Vice President, Marketing & Communications Andrew M. Rose Chai Life Editor, Communications Director Andrea Schuver Chai Life Designer, Creative Director Shanna Vinig Assistant Chai Life Editor & Advertising Sales Mandee Baulo Director of Marketing Operations Brian Sarran Web & Multimedia Manager Paul Kranowitz Graphic Designer Melissa Young Marketing & Communications Coordinator Carrie Galkowski Cover and additional photos: Jeffrey Tholl Photography FEDERATION OFFICERS Chair Ellen R. Sarnoff Vice Chair, Financial Resource Development Anne L. Jacobson Vice Chair, Campaign Betty Kane Vice Chair, Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation Richard D. Steinberg Vice Chair, Women’s Philanthropy Emily Grabelsky Vice Chair, Planning & Allocations Joseph S. Mishkin

Ellen R. Sarnoff

Matthew C. Levin

Chair, Federation Board of Directors

President & CEO

asktheceo@bocafed.org VISION Rooted in Jewish values, the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County seeks to inspire and galvanize local residents and organizations to build and sustain a strong, caring, vibrant Jewish community for today and tomorrow. MISSION At the hub of the Jewish community, the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County strategically engages donors, supporters and community partners in addressing and planning for current and future needs of the Jewish people locally, in Israel and around the world. The Federation accomplishes these goals by: building Jewish community and developing Jewish communal leadership; promoting Jewish identity, education and engagement; caring for the vulnerable; advocating for the well-being and security of the Jewish people and standing with Israel, their spiritual homeland.

Vice Chair, IOC Eric Stein Vice Chair Wesley E. Finch Vice Chair Carol S. Smokler Vice Chair Etta Gross Zimmerman Secretary Debra Halperin Assistant Secretary Albert Gortz, Esq. Treasurer Stewart Kasen Assistant Treasurer Arthur Goldberg SENIOR FEDERATION PROFESSIONALS President & CEO Matthew C. Levin Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer Mel Lowell Executive Vice President, Financial Resource Development Marla Weiss Egers

Follow Federation on: facebook.com/jewishboca

@jewishboca

9901 Donna Klein Blvd. Boca Raton, FL 33428 CHAILIFE 4

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FEATURES 7

Children Carry the Torch

CUBA CONNECTION

EJP on the Island

PREMIER PHILANTHROPY

Sandler Family Major Gifts Event

Campaign 2013-2014

Dorothy P. Seaman Department of Women’s Philanthropy

SHINING EXAMPLES

Young Adult Division

Young Leaders Light the Way

Business & Professional Division

HOME SWEET HOME

Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation

Israel & Overseas

Jewish Community Relations Council

Department of Jewish Education

Local Beneficiary Agencies

Synagogue Updates

Corporate Sponsors

The Kramers Place their Legacy

A BRIGHT FUTURE

COURAGE TO REMEMBER

PJ LIBRARY® ROCKS

DEPARTMENTS

Lions Ready to Roar

MOMENTS MILESTONES MIRACLES

CONTENTS

KEEPING THE FLAME BURNING

With Our Sister City

A Caring Commemoration Community Kickoff

This issue of Chai Life is brought to you through the generous underwriting of Commercial Printers, Inc. and the support of our corporate sponsors and advertisers. 5 CHAILIFE

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Federation invests in the future by caring for Jewish children in our community and around the world. From Boca Raton to Belarus to Israel, these children carry the torch forward and light our way to a future full of promise. Here are just a few of many stories that show how your gifts keep the flame burning.

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IGNITING A MATCHING PASSION Sasha and Dasha are 24-year-old identical twins from Belarus. “We’re very different but most people can’t tell us apart,” says Sasha, with a laugh. But engaging smiles and big, dark eyes aren’t the only things the sisters have in common. Both are passionate about what it means to be Jewish. Through Federation’s overseas beneficiary agencies, they grew up attending Jewish Sunday school and American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee’s (JDC) summer camps. They first traveled to Israel – together, of course – with the Taglit-Birthright program when they were 18. Before long, they were packing their bags again. Thanks to the Jewish Agency for Israel’s (JAFI) Masa program, they were able to live in Jerusalem for six months while attending classes in Hebrew and studying the history of Judaism and Israel.

“It really was an unforgettable experience,” Sasha says. “You meet so many different people and learn about all their different backgrounds. The Jewish people are truly special.” Eventually, the passion they shared for Israel and for their own Judaism led the sisters to follow separate paths. Dasha has made aliyah. Sasha feels she is needed in Belarus, “People in Belarus only know Israel through the media, where it’s portrayed as a very militaristic and hostile place. Now I have the opportunity to educate my friends – both Jewish and non-Jewish – and change their opinions of Israel, to show them it’s truly a wonderful place.” The sisters still agree on one thing: Jewish summer camps and schools are a necessity for young Jews growing up in Belarus and other countries in the region, often providing the only chance for young people to develop a Jewish identity. “These resources – the camps, the schools, the youth groups – wouldn’t exist without the Federation,” says Sasha.

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REBUILDING A FAMILY, CREATING A FUTURE When Judith, a 67-year old widow, was initially granted custody of her five teenage grandchildren, she thought she’d be able to support them, both financially and emotionally, on her own. She now admits that was naive. “I needed a support group that was big enough to help me and the children,” she says. “I kept reading about Jewish Federation and I heard so many good things, so I called them.” Federation helped the family connect with its beneficiary agency Ruth Rales Jewish Family Service to receive donations of food, school supplies, clothing and more. By helping to provide the financial support Judith needed to be able to sign a lease on a bigger home, Federation also helped ensure that the children would have the stable home they needed and deserved. Now, the kids know they’re not alone. “They don’t call me Grandma, they don’t call me Judith, they don’t call me Mom,” Judith says. “They call me Ima, Hebrew for mom. They have a very strong feeling that I’m there for them and that they don’t have to be afraid of anything. I’m right there behind them.” And so is our Federation family. FORGING A LIFELONG COMMITMENT David is a dynamic leader in the Jewish community, committed to ensuring a bright future for our people, here at home and around the world. To find the roots of his unwavering commitment, you can look back over the years.

In the late 1980s, when David was just a teenager working as a counselor at a Federation-funded JCC day camp, hundreds of Russian Jewish families arrived in his community in hope of a new life and a brighter future for their children. “There are going to be, literally, hundreds of Russian children at camp this summer and they’re going to need your help,” his mother told him. That experience opened David’s eyes to the impact Federation can have. Years later, he learned that Federation had been making a big difference in the life of his own family, providing support for his mother following her divorce and educational opportunities for her children. Federation also helped make it possible for David – who grew up in a community where there were few other Jews – to visit Israel.

“Much of my life was impacted by the Federation,” David says, “but the funny part is I never really knew it.” He knows it now and that knowledge has shaped the way he lives his life. “I think about giving back to my community and teaching my children about how important it is to give back and about how important it is to be a part of the survival of the Jewish community,” he says. And he’s realized the best way to do that is through the Federation.

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CAMPAIGN With great anticipation, I write as I’m packing to leave for an amazing journey. Soon I’ll be joining nearly 30 of our Jewish community’s dedicated synagogue, agency, school and Federation lay and professional leaders for our own Israel65 Leadership Mission. Together, we’ll see how much good our collective dollars are doing in our homeland. Already partners, we’ll learn and get even more inspired - to come together and strengthen the present and future of our Jewish community and our people. What an extraordinarily auspicious start to our season! After our travels, many of us will head on to the JFNA General Assembly in Jerusalem with friends and colleagues from around the world. We’ll discuss issues facing the Jewish world today, with access to top level government officials, Jewish thinkers, nongovernmental organizations and entrepreneurs. I look forward to sharing many invaluable ideas and resources from our entire trip. May we go from strength to strength,

Anne Jacobson, Financial Resource Development Chair

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It is with much pride that I assume my new role as our Federation’s Annual Campaign Chair, and welcome David Pratt as Vice Chair. We look forward to following the great success achieved by the last year’s increased campaign chaired by Joe Mishkin, and to working with such a dedicated team. As our 2014 Campaign moves into high gear, I’m very excited to announce two brand new 18-month campaign initiatives. The Make a Major Difference Campaign was launched to add 100 new major donors to the $10,000+ recognition level. Just imagine how much more good we will do with an additional million dollars when we meet our goal! We’ve also introduced The Donometer, which will keep track of and encourage the 1,000 new donors we are working to engage at all levels. I am confident these two new programs will allow us to do even more extraordinary things for our Jewish community, locally and globally. This is what I will strive to achieve this year with all my heart and energy.

Betty Kane, Campaign Chair

DONORS GET A HIGH-TECH GLOW The bright future of donor recognition has already arrived in the lobby of the Federation building. Stop by our beautiful, new state-of-the-art display screen and touch your way through.

IF One MAJOR GIFT could Save a LIFE LIFT a soul UNIFY a people Imagine what 100 new MAJOR GIFTS will do. Join our MAKE A MAJOR DIFFERENCE Campaign. For more information, contact Ida Novack at 561.852.3342 or idan@bocafed.org.

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Finds

n o i t c e n n o C n Cuba

The Patronato is the center of Jewish community lif e in Havana.

so and feel strangely I learned so much unity in Cuba. mm co sh wi Je connected to the happens to them. I really care what , EJP Chair -Gail Greenspoon

Our EJP Cuba M

ission Travele

rs:

Robin & N Karen & eil Baritz Mark D ern Gail & W a Debra & rren Greenspo on L Wendy arry Halperin & Elliot Koolik Lisa & B ob Mar t o Dana V izner, F n ederatio n Profe ssion

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in in and jo stoms vive. Bob u c s u religio lt it is to sur nect imilar n u o see s e how diffic issions to co t g in t fascina et sad to se any more m s a w . It m s, y unities Lisa Marton go on ervice their s inspired to ewish comm e J r r a and I h othe it w t is s and as

t ba should no ity to visit Cu The opportun ls. ve le so many be missed on -Mark Dern

The pharmacy at the Patronato provides medicines and supplies through outside donations.

Our mis sion to C ub extreme ly move a was life chang d by the ing. Ellio We cou Sh ld really t feel how abbat and Hav and I were was also dalah se we share clear th rvices. a th t our do small Je e same llars are wish co history. mmunit truly go It y alive. ing to k eep this -Wendy Koolik

The Cub an Jews struggle full of life every da . Th y, but th was dram e contrast to ho ey are h me whe atic and appy an re we ha re importa d minds u ve nt as fam s that m aterial th so much ily, friend ings are s and co not as mmunity . -Larry H alperin

l work the e wonderfu th e se to ng eeply movi itz ome and d munity. m -Robin Bar co h It was awes is w Je e th in g JDC is doin

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CAMPAIGN

REVISITING THE YOM KIPPUR WAR WITH DR. KENNETH STEIN A crowd of more than 300 gathered on October 7, 2013 to hear renowned speaker Kenneth W. Stein discuss “The State of Israel – 40 Years after the Yom Kippur War.” Coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, the timely program was presented through a partnership of Congregation B’nai Israel and the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. Rabbi Andrew Rosenkranz gave a warm welcome and introduced the speaker. Stein, an esteemed professor of Middle Eastern History, Political Science and Israeli Studies and Founding Director of the Emory Institute for the Study of Modern Israel in Atlanta, revisited those perilous weeks in light of the politics, economics, geographic and security issues that have followed to our present day. Federation President

Kenneth W. Stein, Diane & Larry Feldman

Norm and Anne Jacobson,

Jonathan and Nel Bloom, Matthew C. Levin

KING DAVID SOCIETY AND EMERGING JEWISH PHILANTHROPISTS JOIN RECEPTION WITH DR. STEIN Prior to the program, members of Federation’s King David Society (KDS) and Emerging Jewish Philanthropists (EJP) joined with leaders of Congregation B’nai Israel for a private reception. They enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and an opportunity to network and speak personally with Dr. Stein. For more information about upcoming KDS or EJP events, briefings and missions, contact 561.852.3129 or jenniferk@bocafed.org.

Dalia and Morton Jarashow

Sharon Wagman, Kenneth W. Stein, Matthew C. Levin, Rabbi Andrew Rosenkranz

Gary Weiner, Dr. Stephen and Emily Grabelsky

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and CEO, Matthew C. Levin, moderated the interactive Q&A discussion forum and gave the closing remarks for the evening.

Jerry and Kinnie Gorelick

Meryl & Ron Gallatin, Judi Schuman, Lori & Jason Solodkin

J E W ISH FEDER AT ION OF SOU T H PA L M BE AC H COUN T Y

David Gergen Commentator, editor, teacher, public servant, best-selling author and adviser to presidents - for 30 years, David Gergen has been an active participant in American national life.

Members of the Sandler Family: Evan, Larry & Andrea Schnurmacher; Amy Ross; Phyllis Sandler; David Ross; Harvey Sandler; Jonathan, Robin & Gary Rubin

Honorary Chairs Beverly Saltz & William Newman

Marilyn & Stan Barry David & Dale Pratt Event Chairs

2014 Major Gifts Event is generously sponsored by:

Major Gifts Sponsors: Al Gortz, Richard Steinberg, Ed Smith, Marjorie Horwin, David Pratt, Ken Pritzker

Exclusive Magazine Sponsor:

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J E W I SH F EDER AT ION OF SOU T H PA L M BE AC H C OUN T Y

Mission to Morocco April 27 - May 4, 2014

Join KDS donors from throughout the country us for a magical journey to the ancient Jewish communities of Casablanca, Rabat and Marrakesh. We’ll experience Morocco’s rich Jewish history and unique culture. Meet with political leaders, economic experts, diplomats, journalists and young people who are changing the face of Morocco’s Jewish community. For more information, please contact Jennifer Koenig at 561.852.3129 or jenniferk@bocafed.org

A small business finance expert is only a phone call away.

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Call (877) 88-BIBBY to learn more.

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TRANSFORMATIVE WEEK IN MINSK AND ISRAEL FOR CAMPAIGN LEADERS Each summer, lay and professional Federation leaders from throughout North America come together for the JFNA Campaign Chairs and Directors Mission for a remarkable week of inspiration, learning and exploring the wonders our dollars accomplish through our overseas partner agencies. This past July, Joseph Mishkin, our Planning & Allocations Chair, and Judi Schuman, our Women’s Philanthropy Campaign Chair, were joined on a powerful journey to Minsk and Israel by Ida Novack, Associate VP, Major Gifts, and Robin Agronin, Director of Women’s Philanthropy. Together, they experienced “a microcosm of the entire Jewish experience,” from the destruction and rebirth of the Belarus Jewish community to the revitalization of immigrant communities and lives in Israel, in dialogue with top officials along the way.

Laurence I. Blair, Esq. - Shareholder 225 Glades Road, Suite 414-E Boca Raton, FL 33431 561.994.2212 ext. 1705 | larry.blair@gmlaw.com

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THE EVENT

FEED

PROTECT

TEACH INSPIRE

SAVE

COMFORT

THE EVENT

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CELEBRATE ALL THE GOOD IN OUR COMMUNITY Benefiting the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County

Tuesday, February 4, 2014 Cocktails & hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres: 6:30 p.m. Program promptly to begin: 7:30 p.m. Boca West Country Club 20583 Boca West Drive, Boca Raton Event Chairs: Michele & Larry Blair Eydie & Ira Holz Lisa & Stephen Mendelsohn Jennifer & Craig Zeuner Founding Chairs: Debra & Larry Halperin Dietary Laws Observed Minimum family contribution of $365 to the 2014 Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County Annual Campaign is required to attend.

Everyone Counts JFSPBC 2014 DONOMETER

1 0 0 0 BUILDING COMMUNITY… ONE GIFT AT A TIME

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CAMPAIGN

FEDERATION JOINS FASHIONABLE ENTRANCE FOR LORD & TAYLOR The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County and the Junior League of Boca Raton shared the honors as the two appointed beneficiaries of the highly anticipated Lord & Taylor Grand Opening in Boca Raton. On October 9, a privately held preview party attracted an enthusiastic, star-studded crowd with 1,500 guests from both organizations, offering a first look at the stunning new two-level, 80,000 square foot store settled appropriately in Mizner Park. Throughout the celebration, guests enjoyed cocktails, passed hors d’oeuvres, live mixing by DJs, a self-serve candy bar and a photo mingle station. Ample personal shoppers were on hand throughout the collections, all of which are tailored for Boca customers and climate.

Among the crowd were Federation leaders, celebrities and top executives including Nina Garcia, Creative Director of Marie Claire and Project Runway judge; Mark Badgley and James Mischka of Badgley Mischka; designer Joseph Abboud; Hudson’s Bay Company Executives: Richard Baker, Governor and CEO; Bonnie Brooks, President; Liz Rodbell, Incoming President; Suzanne Timmins, Fashion Director; Mindy Horvitz, General Manager of Lord & Taylor; and Mayor Susan Whelchel of Boca Raton. Federation was also on hand for the next day’s ribbon cutting ceremony and breakfast with local officials to formally welcome Lord & Taylor to the community.

The Jewish Federation of SPBC welcomes Lord & Taylor to Boca Raton! Thank you for partnering with us for your grand opening. We look forward to a long relationship, full of style, fashion and beauty! CHAILIFE 20

&C HT H A N K S G I V ANUK

ING

AH M O ne m ENU o nt h o f su pa c k p p l em ages for a enta n e nt ire lo r y food cal fa $36 Fo o d mily , me d i c i ne a o ne c nd w hild in inter th e F relief o r me for r Sovie O ne d $125 t Unio ay of n a loca Holoc a us t l teen ed u c ation â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transfo r ma in P $400 oland and tive O ne m I s ra e o nt h l of co u n s el i ng copin for a g wit family h t ra u ma $ 500 A yea r of v one lo ital trans p cal lo w-inc or tation f or o me senio $1 ,50 A He r 0 brew w one n ork-study ew Is prog ra e l i immig ram for $2,5 ra nt 00

This Chanukah, serve an extra helping of Thanks This year, for the first time ever, Chanukah starts on Thanksgiving. Both holidays are about gratitude and giving. So as you plan your holiday meal, please give to the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. Even a small donation can do so much for a grateful person in genuine need.

jewishboca.org

facebook.com/jewishboca

@JewishBoca

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DOROTHY SEAMAN DEPARTMENT OF WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY Shalom! TODAY IS A GIFT. THAT’S WHY IT IS CALLED...THE PRESENT.

DECKS, DOTS & DESSERTS KICK OFF WOMEN’S SEASON

I am so proud that the women of our community have once again come together to seize this very important moment - as Women’s Philanthropy again makes a powerful commitment to help our Jewish community locally and overseas by supporting the 2014 Annual Campaign.

The Women’s Philanthropy season got off to a rousing start, building community through timeless games and tasty treats at Decks, Dots & Desserts on October 29, 2013. From throughout South Palm Beach County, 225 women of all ages enjoyed an evening of Canasta, Mah Jongg and Social Bridge at Woodfield County Club. With welcoming co-chairs Lori Gutmann & Janice Obuchowski, the warmth and friendship just kept growing as they played the night away.

We’ve planned an array of opportunities for women of all stages of life and giving levels to attend events, be inspired by dynamic speakers, participate in Jewish learning and connect to our Jewish sisters in Israel. I truly believe that creating meaningful relationships with one another will ultimately make our Jewish community strong and vibrant!

Sharing encouraging stories of the vital work made possible through the Federation’s Annual Campaign, Eydie Holz, WP Community Outreach Vice Chair made sure the night’s energy and inspiration

will boost our women into the season ahead. Barbara Lewin, WP Education Vice Chair, spoke about the Women’s Philanthropy adopta-project, “Women for Dignity,” supporting needy homebound seniors in Minsk, Belarus. The night also saw an abundant collection for the three T’s mitzvah project tuna, towels (paper) and toiletries - for distribution through the Ruth Rales Jewish Family Service (JFS) Jacobson Family Food Pantry. Representatives from Wells Fargo Private Bank, the Dorothy Seaman Department of Women’s Philanthropy’s generous sponsor, were also on hand for the fun and presented stagecoach cookie jars to the event chairs and one lucky winner from the audience.

In a warm and lively start, we kicked off our 2014 Campaign with our third annual Decks, Dots and Desserts, welcoming back many women and reaching out to newcomers interested in getting involved and making a difference. I look forward to embracing “the present” with each of you... to help those in need.

Janice Obuchowski, Eydie Holz, Lori Gutmann

Larry Katz, Matt Levin, Barry Goldberg

Meryl Gallatin, Judi Schuman, Emily Grabelsky

Amy Ross, Andrea Schnurmacher, Phyllis Sandler, Robin Rubin

Debra Halperin, Susan Rahn, Patti Jacobson

Elaine Roberts, Beth Mishkin, Louise Galpern, Anne Jacobson

Emily Grabelsky Chair, Women’s Philanthropy

Keep up with our fast-moving women. Like us on Facebook facebook.com/JFSPBCWomen CHAILIFE 22

Randi Winter, Dawn Gaynor, Kim Fetterman, Leslie Greene

Vicki Weinstein, Barbara Werner, Adele Lebersfeld, Beth Bloom, Betty Ogilvie

LIONS TO ROAR WITH PATTI STANGER, PHILANTHROPIST, JEWISH ENTREPRENEUR AND STAR OF “MILLIONAIRE MATCHMAKER” AT PREMIER ANNUAL LUNCHEON

Highlighting the local season’s treasure trove of women’s events and programs is the most awaited annual event in Jewish women’s philanthropy: the Lion of Judah Luncheon. The roar from the Polo Club will resound across the globe at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2014, when about 500 members of the “pride” of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County celebrate their “Moments, Milestones and Miracles.” They’ll be roaring with keynote speaker Patti Stanger, a philanthropist and Jewish entrepreneur best known as star and executive producer of Bravo TV’s record-breaking docu-series “The Millionaire Matchmaker,” now in its sixth season. “It’s always breathtaking to feel the power of hundreds of women, who care and do so much for our local and global Jewish community, coming together each year,” said April Leavy, Vice Chair, Lion of Judah. “Our nearly 800 Lions roar loudly among 17,000 worldwide.” “Together, we’ll reflect on the personal moments when we truly experience the power of what we can do, on our milestones as we increase the depths of our commitment, and on miracles of those we have helped, ” said Margie Marlowe, who is co-chairing the luncheon with Monica Goldstein.

Margie Marlowe, Monica Goldstein, Marleen Forkas

“We’re thrilled to be featuring Patti Stanger, thanks to the great vision and generous endowment of Marleen Forkas,” said Goldstein. “Through the Marleen Forkas Chair of Contemporary Jewish Issues, we are able to maintain the tradition of providing the highest caliber presenters for our loyal and committed Lions.” Patti Stanger is known for passionately navigating her varied business dealings. A third-generation matchmaker who previously worked in the fashion industry, she is renowned for giving those who turn to her for help “nothing less than her soul.” Named by Forbes as one of the Top 10 women followed on Twitter, beyond her TV show, Stanger is also a best-selling author, TV and film actress, TV producer and guide to entrepreneurs.

Patti Stanger

The luncheon couvert is $85, with a Lion level gift of $5,000 or above to the 2014 UJA/Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County Annual Campaign required to attend. Dietary laws will be observed. For more information, call 561.852.3160 or email melissac@bocafed.org. 23 CHAILIFE

SAVE THE DATE POSITIVELY POMEGRANATE POWER. PASSION. PURPOSE. POMEGRANATE. Thursday, January 23, 2014 Saks Fifth Avenue Town Center Mall, Boca Raton

A WOMAN'S JOURNEY TO ISRAEL FEBRUARY 9-13, 2014 Leave your high heels at home and join our intrepid group of smart, motivated women from across North America and Israel on a unique journey that will feed your soul and engage your mind. Join Heart to Heart Mission National Co-Chair and South Palm Beach County’s very own Gail Greenspoon on this one of a kind and life changing trip.

Vice Chair, Pomegranate Kathy Green A minimum individual woman’s commitment of $1,800 to the 2014 UJA/Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County Annual Campaign is required to attend.

For additional information, please call Robin Agronin at 561.852.5054 or email robina@bocafed.org.

REGISTER NOW! JEWISHBOCA.ORG/HEART For more information, please contact Robin Agronin at 561.852.5054 or robina@bocafed.org.

Proud to play a part in our community, here to play a part in your financial life Since 1852, Wells Fargo has been helping families build, manage and preserve their wealth. Today, we are proud to continue our tradition of strong community partnership by saluting the Dorothy Seaman Department of Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. In addition to Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, we have also supported the following Jewish community organizations in South Florida: Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County Adolph and Rose Levis Jewish Community Center Center for Sport and Jewish Life Greater Miami Jewish Federation

Jewish Adoption and Foster Care Options (JAFCO) Jewish National Fund - Boca Raton Alpert Jewish Children and Family Services United Jewish Community of Broward County

To learn more about how Wells Fargo Private Bank can help you achieve your financial goals, please contact: Lawrence Katz, Regional Private Banking Manager (561) 362-1051, lawrence.katz@wellsfargo.com Wealth Planning Banking Trust Investments Insurance | wellsfargoprivatebank.com n

Wells Fargo Private Bank provides financial services and products through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. and its affiliates. Deposit and loan products offered through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. Insurance products are available through Insurance subsidiaries of Wells Fargo & Company and underwritten by non-affiliated Insurance Companies. Not available in all states. © 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801

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SAVE THE DATE

J E W I S H F E D E R AT I O N O F S O U T H PA L M B E AC H C O U N T Y

INTERNATIONAL LION OF JUDAH CONFERENCE September 7-10, 2014 New York City

REGISTRATION BEGINS AT THE END OF NOVEMBER Ellen Channing and Phyliss Liss JFSPBC Conference Co-Chairs

Janice Obuchowski JFSPBC Pre-Conference Activities Chair

April Leavy JFSPBC Lion of Judah Vice Chair

For more information, please contact Robin Agronin at 561.852.5054 or robina@bocafed.org.

Women For Dignity Project Help us meet our goal of purchasing 5,000 disposable undergarments for needy homebound seniors in Minsk, Belarus. We are counting on you. BUY A PACKAGE OF 5 TRIBUTE CARDS FOR $20 AND 20 DISPOSABLE UNDERGARMENTS WILL BE PROVIDED FOR A NEEDY SENIOR.

To order cards, visit

jewishboca.org/dignity For more information on this Adopt-a-Project, contact Robin Agronin at 561.852.5054 or robina@bocafed.org

YOUNG ADULT DIVISION (YAD) Young Adults at the Crossroad

YAD TOASTS THE NEW YEAR AT PIÑON GRILL

The Jewish world is abuzz over the recent Pew Research Center’s Portrait of Jewish Americans’ key finding that younger Jews are less connected to and less interested in Jewish life. The numbers from this extensive survey place American Jewry at an urgent crossroad.

Wherever YAD wanders for Happy Hour, it’s the place to be for young Jewish adults in their 20s to early 40s. On September 17, almost 70 people joined YAD to toast the New Year with delicious drinks, friendship and ambiance at Piñon Grill in Boca Raton. Whether you’re new to town, a local veteran or anything in between, YAD is your group for amazing events with company you’ll want to keep, in venues you’ll want to visit! For more information, visit jewishboca.org/yad or email robind@bocafed.org.

To those of us in our 20s-40s: they’re talking about us. More importantly, they’re talking about our friends and neighbors who aren’t reading this. “Being Jewish” just isn’t enough. It’s time to do more and show that American Jewry’s book is not closing, but rather writing its next great chapter. Young Adult Division 20s 30s early 40s

WANDERING

Our people have always exhibited strength beyond numbers, and in South Palm Beach County we have both strength and numbers. It’s time for our young adults to come together and shout a collective “hineni, here we are.”

Happy Hours MARK YOUR CALENDAR

So come to an event. Invite a friend. Give a little. Share your ideas. Do a bit more. Care for our Jewish family near and far. Let’s show that Pew’s numbers don’t define who we are or predict who we will be. Join YAD in showing that, right here, our young adults have the strength, the numbers and the spirit to lead our people forward! I look forward to seeing you soon.

January 16 Karma 346 Plaza Real, Boca Raton

May 22 The Funky Biscuit 303 SE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton

February 20 Asia 7600 W Camino Real, Boca Raton

July 24 Morton’s Steakhouse 5050 Town Center Cir., Boca Raton

April 24 Blue Martini 6000 Glades Rd., Boca Raton

RSVP at jewishboca.org/happy hour

B’ Shalom,

For more information, contact Robin Dermer at 561.852.5015 or robind@bocafed.org Bryan Drowos Chair, Young Adult Division (YAD)

connect explore celebrate

march 16-18, 2014

Keep up with upcoming YAD events. Like us on Facebook facebook.com/YoungAdultDivision CHAILIFE 26

new orleans, louisiana

march 16-18 new orleans, la www.tribefest.org

Local subsidies available. For more information, contact Robin Dermer at 561.852.5015 or robind@bocafed.org tribefest

@tribefest

Wishing the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County success in the 2014 Annual Campaign. Our deepest gratitude and admiration to all the committed, generous volunteers and supporters whose dedicated efforts meet vital human needs for so many in our community, in Israel and overseas. Jeffrey Sandelman

BLUE AND WHITE PARTY A CHANUKAH CELEBRATION FOR ADULTS 22-45

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2013 • 8:45 P.M. IL BACIO • 29 SE 2ND AVENUE, DELRAY BEACH CHAIRS: MARGOT SHOOSTER & LAWRENCE MELCER COME DRESSED IN BLUE AND WHITE LATKES • HORS D’OEUVRES • CASH BAR COST: $18 PRE-REGISTRATION/$20 AT THE DOOR INCLUDES ONE FREE DRINK TO RSVP, VISIT JEWISHBOCA.ORG/BLUEANDWHITE FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT ROBIN DERMER AT 561.852.5015 OR ROBIND@BOCAFED.ORG.

27 CHAILIFE

YOUNG ADULT DIVISION (YAD)

YAD LEADER CAPS HISTORIC JOURNEY FROM ETHIOPIA When a plane ride between Ethiopia and Israel changed the lives of 58 Ethiopian Jews making aliyah in June, local YAD Chair Bryan Drowos was alongside them for an historic journey. Drowos was among 43 people from across North America on JFNA’s final mission to cap an amazing three-decade campaign by Jewish Federations, the government of Israel, the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) and American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) to resettle 90,000 Ethiopian Jews in the Jewish homeland. Drowos visited Federation-supported schools, clinics and community centers. They also attended synagogue in Gondar, where Jews from Ethiopia have waited and prepared for their time to go to Israel. He learned how they had sustained their Jewish identity

CHAILIFE 28

over 2,500 years in the region. Arriving pre-dawn in Ben Gurion Airport, “We walked hand in hand with the new olim as they fulfilled a lifelong dream of setting foot on Israeli soil, kissing the holy ground and tearfully reuniting with their family members,” said Drowos. After visiting vital services for the immigrants in Israel, Drowos found the historic mission’s name “Completing the Journey” a misnomer. “While the Ethiopians’ physical journey has completed, they need our help more than ever with their very new life, language and culture.” View Bryan’s brief and powerful photo story at http://vimeo.com/70501373

Ethiopians reuniting with family in Israel

29 CHAILIFE

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL DIVISION (B&P) On the Move for Business and Community Only a year ago, we really didn’t know what to expect when we dove into this new venture. Now, we’re honored and excited to open B&P’s second season as a dynamic, rapidly growing successful community of entrepreneurs and professionals who care.

CABINET MEMBERS GO INSIDE AS DOLPHINS VIPS On September 25, B&P Cabinet members were treated to an exclusive insiders’ tour of Miami Dolphins’ Sun Life Stadium. Guided by Kenny Stolberg, they went “behind the scenes” from the press box and club level suites, passed award displays holding the championship rings, through the tunnels to the locker rooms and out onto the sunny field – forging friendships and collegial relationships as they toured.

We’re networking, meeting our “business icons” and planning for the future. And the more we learn about the rewards of engaging with our Jewish community, the more we’re moved to engage further. We’re becoming corporate sponsors, networking in smaller groups and joining committees outside of B&P. The more we get involved, the more we experience how “what’s good for business can also be good for the community.” Sincerely and successfully yours,

Gary Lesser Co-chair, B&P

Bob Marton Co-chair, B&P

We are excited to introduce the 2014 B&P Cabinet* Mark Berkowitz Jay Berkowitz Andrea Bernstein Laurence Blair Scott Brenner Jason Brodie Dana Charles-Kodner Meryl Charnow Lauren Cohen Daniel Davidowitz Dori Eden Seth Ellis Joshua Friedman Guy Fronstin Nancy Gefen Greg Gefen Rob Gerstein Barry Goldberg Stephen Grabelsky Kathy Green Brad Gucciardo Zev Herman Scott Hirsch

Tracy Kawa Eric Lebersfeld Ken Lebersfeld Gary Lesser Dan Levine Becky Lightman Wendy Lipsich Jason Marks Bob Marton Stephanie Midler Rachel Miller Curtis Olschansky Jeremy Paul Rick Paul Beverly Rothstein Jon Sahn Shari Schwamm Jeff Shavitz Howard Silverstein Carolina Steier Pamela Weinroth Fred Weinstein Craig Zeuner

*new cabinet members joining daily don’t be left out! Contact Sonni Simon at 561.852.3128 or sonnis@bocafed.org CHAILIFE 30

SAVE THE DATE B&P MISSION TO NYC Join us for an insiders’ business view of Jewish New York May 4-6, 2014 A minimum individual gift of $500 to the 2014 UJA/ Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County Annual Campaign is required to participate.

For more information, contact Sonni Simon at 561.852.3128 or sonnis@bocafed.org

Keep up-to-date with information regarding B&P Like us on Facebook facebook.com/JFSPBCBusiness

Connect with us on LinkedIn jewishboca.org/bp/linkedin

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL DIVISION (B&P)

2013-14 ICON SERIES KICKS OFF WITH LEWIS KATZ, FORMER OWNER OF NJ NETS AND NJ DEVILS Amid premium networking, business leaders and professionals from throughout the area had a great opportunity to hear how Lewis Katz, renowned for business as well as philanthropy, came from the streets of Camden to owning two professional sports teams and media enterprises. On October 16, more than 120 – over half of them newcomers - gathered for the breakfast event in Zinman Hall on the Federation campus. Katz shared his journey to success, with lessons from his distinguished experience as former principal owner of the NJ Nets and NJ Devils and as current shareholder of the Nets, the NY Yankees and the YES Network. Among many philanthropic projects, Katz has helped build three JCCs and a Hebrew Day School in New Jersey, all named for his family members. The group also learned about the important work of the Federation from President & CEO Matthew C. Levin and B&P Co-chair Bob Marton. Randy Colman, Executive Director of the Adolph & Rose Levis JCC, shared the exciting news about the opportunities for our community has as they prepare to host the 2014 Maccabi Games. Guests left assured that the Federation’s B&P Division is good for business as well as the community.

Representatives of Bibby Financial Services: John Buanno, Charles Wolowitz, Marcus Ferrari, Debra Vanderhoff, Seth Turnoff

Herb Kane; Lewis Katz; Betty Kane, Chair, Campaign; Matthew C. Levin, President & CEO

Greg Gefen, Eric Lebersfeld, Jason Solodkin

Howie Silverstein, Choice Employee Benefits Group; Ralph Behmoiras, Boca Raton Observer; Marc Lamb and Larry Lipsitz, Commercial Printers, Inc.

Jordan Gluck, Jeremy Cohen, Scott Filhaber, Joshua Goldglantz

Eliot Popper, Marcia & Bruce Berns

Kathy Green, Dale Filhaber

Elliot Koolik; Robert Siemens; Bob Marton, B&P Co-chair; Jeff Shavitz

SAVE THE DATES FOR OUR EXCITING UPCOMING PROGRAMS JANUARY 29, 2014 • 8:00 A.M. INDUSTRY ICON NETWORKING FLORINE MARK CEO, WEIGHT WATCHERS GROUP

MARCH 26, 2014 • 6:00 P.M. INDUSTRY ICON NETWORKING STEPHEN SADOVE CEO, SAKS INCORPORATED

For more details and to register, visit jewishboca.org/icon 31 CHAILIFE

YOUNG LEADERS LIGHT THE WAY TO A BRIGHT FUTURE The next time you stop to pick up a few things at the grocery store, visit the mall or sit down to enjoy dinner at your favorite local restaurant, take a look around. You’ll see proof of South Florida’s changing demographics. Young families are moving into our neighborhoods in greater numbers, entrepreneurs and professionals are opening businesses and – more and more – people are enjoying all that South Florida has to offer as yearround residents. You can also see the change reflected in the meeting rooms at the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County where the representatives of a new generation of leaders are taking their place at the tables, including right at the heads. “The future is looking very bright,” says Matt Levin, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. “Some amazing young leaders have already stepped up, but there is more talent waiting just outside our doors. We need to make sure the welcome mat is out by continuing to broaden the ways our diverse young Jewish population can connect with the community.”

CHAILIFE 32

Dynamic young personalities are coming together around the Federation. They’re shaping our Emerging Jewish Philanthropists (EJP) group and redefining networking at our Business and Professional (B&P) events. They’re connecting at an array of Young Adult Division (YAD) gatherings, delighting in PJ Library® programs with their children and sharing a sense of sisterhood with like-minded women. Preparing for our community’s future as well as their own, they’re even endowing their annual gifts with insurance policies. Soon, a number of them will be part of our new Jewish Community Leadership Institute (JCLI) program, building their skills, knowledge and relationships across Federation, agency and synagogue lines - as we develop an ongoing pipeline of Jewish community leadership in Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Highland Beach for years to come. “The Federation is offering so many opportunities for younger people to get involved,” says attorney Laurence I. (Larry) Blair, a member of the Federation’s Board and Executive Committee, the past Chair of Ruth Rales Jewish Family Service, and an alum of JFNA’s National Young

Leadership Cabinet. “They’re also encouraging us to grow – as leaders, as professionals and as individuals.” Larry and his wife, Michele, are raising two young children in Boca Raton. Through their involvement with the Federation, they have connected with other young families who share their values, and found meaningful ways to give back to the Jewish community. “There are so many opportunities to make a difference, to grow, and to help shape our community for today and into the future,” says Larry. Matthew J. Kutcher has made investing time in the Jewish Federation a priority ever since his first Professional Advisory Committee (PAC) Mission to Israel in 2011. “It was a life-changing experience to witness the history, beauty and challenges that embody our homeland,” he says. As a result of that experience, in April 2013 he co-chaired the PAC Mission to Israel that included more than 20 professionals and 5 first-timers. Currently, Matt serves as Investment Chair for the Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation Board. That experience has given him a unique perspective on the role of leadership and the importance of developing the next generation of leaders within our community. “This is a vital piece in ensuring that the needs of our community are met on an ongoing and consistent basis,” he says. “We need an active and engaged set of young leaders who can inject energy and fresh ideas into the ethos of the Jewish Federation.”

“You must make younger adults partners in the process because the process is going to be theirs to carry forward,” says Rani Garfinkle, who not only serves on our Board and Executive Committee but is also past National Chair of Women’s Philanthropy, past Vice Chair of Jewish Federations of North America, and currently serves on the Executive Committee of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). “Jews are taught to both remember their history and plan for the future,” Rani says. “If you are a Jewish communal leader, planning for the future means replacing yourself. Finding, mentoring and nurturing young people and then standing aside so they can take their turn and fly.” Among those who have found their wings is Jill Deutch, who serves with Rani as a member of both the Federation’s Board and Executive Committee. Jill has many demands on her time – in addition to working as Director of Development for Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach, she is raising three teenagers with her husband, Congressman Ted Deutch – but she believes it’s important to make time for the Federation. “A long time ago, I participated in a program where someone stated that she believed her role in the Jewish community was to be ‘one Jew, asking another Jew to help a third Jew who is not able to ask for her own self.’ I truly believe in this,” Jill says. “We are all responsible for each other.”

33 CHAILIFE

JACOBSON JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Your Promise Made Is Our Promise Kept If you could make a promise to future Jewish generations, what would it be? To make sure our Jewish community saves for a rainy day when help is needed? A warm home for adults with special needs? A haven for at-risk teens in Israel? In-home care for frail seniors? Whatever the promise – whatever the dream – the Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation is here. For nearly 30 years, we’ve been the steward for individuals and families to leave their meaningful legacies, helping them not only transfer wealth but also pass down Jewish values from generation to generation to ensure the continuity of our people and the programs and services they hold dear. Whatever their “intent,” the Foundation is committed to finding the right vehicle for each individual or family interested in leaving a legacy – with a strong team of dedicated volunteer Professional Advisory Committee (PAC) members and experienced staff to help in the process. So when that rainy day comes – or someone needs a helping hand or shoulder to lean on – will you be there? Let Foundation help you fulfill your unique and worthwhile promise – forever.

Richard Steinberg Elyssa Kupferberg Chair Vice Chair CHAILIFE 34

HOME, SWEET HOME

The Federation provides a safe, secure home where Jerry and Debra Kramer’s legacy will always thrive

erry Kramer didn’t have much of a home growing up. Thanks to him, however, thousands of others did.

In 1931, when Jerry was just three years old, his mother became critically ill with cancer. In the following years, he moved 11 times, bouncing between various relatives and foster homes. “Jerry went from home to home to home,” say Debra Kramer, his wife of 38 years. “The uncertainty of his early life drove him to become the epitome of a self-made man.”

At age 18, Jerry found a home – and a family – in the Army. A highly decorated Korean War veteran, he bonded with the soldiers he fought beside. They cared for each other and, together, learned the importance of loyalty. When he came back to Brooklyn, Jerry struck out on his own, selling cutlery door-to-door. It wasn’t opportunity knocking, but Jerry himself knocked on one particular door that would change his prospects forever. The owner liked the presentation, bought the set and offered Jerry a job in his lumber business. From there, Jerry rode the post-World War II building boom to a prosperous career in construction and development. Over the years, he has built more than 3,000 singlefamily homes and townhouse communities. As the president of JMD Management Corporation, he has also provided much needed homes for the elderly and the handicapped as the builder and owner-manager of a significant number of multi-family residential Section 8 apartments. “I just knew I wanted to work for myself,” Jerry says. His self-reliance had one powerful exception: Debra. “I couldn’t do all the things I’ve done without her as my partner,” he freely admits. The 1973 Yom Kippur War’s threat of annihilation to the Jewish homeland was a watershed event for Jerry’s Jewish philanthropy. As the tanks roared in on all sides, and with Debra at his own side, Jerry responded immediately as never before. Leveraging his connections and his “bully pulpit” as president of the Long Island Builders, he organized the UJA Dinner for Life for 4,000 people. Three weeks later he presented UJA with a check for $1 million, and he never looked back. Together, the couple – who spent winters in Boca Raton for years before becoming year-round residents in 1993 – has also become a local philanthropic force. Among their very significant commitments, they were their community’s chair of ADL, and are Prime Minister’s Council donors to the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. Their Federation involvement began when a friend was struggling to find help for his intellectually disabled adult daughter. Thanks to a generous gift from Jerry, she was able to find a home with Jewish Association for Residential Care (JARC) where she

“Debra and Jerry Kramer do more for our community than anyone I have had the privilege of knowing, and they enjoy giving under the radar,” says Adam Bankier, LL.M, CPA, a member of our PAC and Mitzvah Society. could grow, learn, socialize and enjoy life in a secure, caring environment. It’s not just friends who benefit from the Kramers’ kindness, however. Every Thanksgiving, Jerry personally delivers hundreds of turkey dinners to less privileged local residents. When Jerry learned of a Holocaust survivor living in his car, he personally provided for a senior apartment until a place became available on the Federation campus. The couple also provides vital support to Ruth Rales Jewish Family Service (JFS) and the Tri-County Humane Society, causes very close to their hearts. In addition to their Jewish philanthropy, Jerry leaves a great legacy on Long Island through his building of the Kramer Learning Center in Bayshore, LI, for the Association for Children with Learning Disabilities. Jerry was also the major donor for the Kramer Science Center on the campus of Dowling College in Oakdale, NY. “Debra and Jerry Kramer do more for our community than anyone I have had the privilege of knowing, and they enjoy giving under the radar,” says Adam Bankier, LL.M, CPA, a member of our PAC and Mitzvah Society. When the Kramers looked to transmit their wealth and their values into the future, Adam helped the couple set up a donor advised fund (DAF). Administered by the Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation, the DAF will endow their annual Prime Minister’s Council commitment in perpetuity, as well other causes in their legacy. “A DAF is a simple and cost effective way for the Kramers and others to endow their legacies for generations to come. And with a DAF, charitable deductions can be generated today with the family having a role in later determining the charities that will benefit from their DAF,” explains Adam.

35 CHAILIFE

MANY WISE WAYS TO BUILD YOUR JEWISH LEGACY As 2013 draws to an end and our thoughts turn to taxes, it may be time to consider these vehicles that can build our community and your legacy: • IRA Rollovers to Charitable Organizations: Taxpayers age 70 1/2 or older can continue to donate up to $100,000 from Roth or traditional IRAs to certain charitable organizations without including the amount of their IRA withdrawals in gross income. This provision allows for distributions directly to charitable organizations, like the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, but NOT to “Donor Advised Funds.” • With interest rates still at historic lows, there continues to be an opportunity to establish a Charitable Lead Trust (ACLT). This vehicle provides funds to the charity today and transfers the principal to the next generation at a later date. • Donor Advised Funds (DAF) may be an effective method of establishing your “Philanthropic Bank” through the contribution of highly appreciated assets… while the stock market remains at a high level. You can then later use the DAF to provide grants to other charities. • A donor-designated Endowment Fund may be an excellent vehicle to provide for those programs and agencies that you are especially involved with during your lifetime. You will have the security of knowing that the Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation will continue to honor your intent into the future. • The donation of your Insurance Policy to the JFSPBC is always a low cost method to support the values that you hold dear. Please contact your personal legal, estate planning, financial or tax professionals for advice about how these provisions may affect your individual situation. For further information about the Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation and its resources, including the Professional Advisory Committee, contact Steve Rose, Vice President, Foundation at 561.852.3114 or stever@bocafed.org. All conversations will be confidential.

WHAT

PROMISE WILL YOU MAKE TO FUTURE GENERATIONS?

The Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation is here to help fulfill your promise that there will always be a strong and thriving Jewish community and people. Learn about the easy ways you can keep your promise, l’dor v’dor, from generation to generation. Please consult with your trusted financial advisor or a member of our Foundation’s professional team at 561.852.3170.

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J A C O B S O N

J E W I S H

C O M M U N I T Y

F O U N D A T I O N

18 Years Of Giving Is As Good As Gold. If you have given to a UJA/Jewish Federation campaign for 18 years or more, you are invited to the Golden Gathering, a special thank you celebration of “Golden Givers.” Join us as we acknowledge your longstanding commitment to the extraordinary work Federation does.

“Bagels with Golda”

A one-woman show with Joan Wolfberg as Golda Meir

Wednesday, January 22, 2014 • 9:30 a.m. Jewish Federation of SPBC – Zinman Hall For more information, contact Linda Hurst at 561.852.3170 or lindah@bocafed.org.

To RSVP visit jewishboca.org/goldengivers

Remember When HANK GREENBERG

NOSTALGIC AMERICA MAGAZINE

Hank Greenberg played 12 seasons with the Detroit Tigers from 1930 – 1946. He won the AL MVP Award twice in 1935 and 1940. Year

Hits

Runs

RBI

AVG

1934

201

118

139

.339

1935

203

121

170

.328

1937

200

137

183

.337

1938

175

144

146

.315

1940

195

129

150

.341

You can pick up your FREE copy of Nostalgic America Magazine at over 400 locations throughout Palm Beach & Broward Counties every month. • Entertainment • Americana • People • Classic Ads • Classic Sports

NostalgicamericamagaziNe.com

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37 CHAILIFE

JACOBSON JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

PROFESSIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (PAC)

Mitzvah Society

Cocktail Reception TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2014 5:30 P.M. Addison Reserve Country Club Honoring Thomas R. Kaplan

th Annual Seminar for professionals

TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014 • 5:30 P.M. Featured Speaker: Richard A. Oshins Topic: Thinking Outside the Box: Why Conventional Thinking Might Not Always Be Best for Your Client Woodfield Country Club $50 per person (table sponsorship available)

Chairs Daniel J. Levine, Esq. and Albert Gortz, Esq.

Chairs: Amy Beller, Esq. and Alyssa Feder, Esq.

For more information, contact Michele Becker at 561.852.3173 or micheleb@bocafed.org.

Ultimate

Thank You O R

JEWISH WOMEN’S FOUNDATION

L ’ AT I D

Light unto the Future Lion of Judah Endowment

2014

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Thursday, March 20, 2014 10:00 a.m. St. Andrews Country Club

Monday, March 24, 2014 5 o’clock in the evening

$36 per person

Boca Rio Golf Club 22041 Boca Rio Road

Barbara Werner Chair, Planned Giving and Endowment

Mara Reuben, Chair

For more information, contact Linda Hurst at 561.852.3170 or lindah@bocafed.org.

For more information, contact Lisbeth Rock Cauff at 561.852.3188 or lisbethc@bocafed.org.

A GIFT FOR A VIBRANT COMMUNITY TODAY AND TOMORROW WITH THE LEVIS JCC

hirley and Allan B. Solomon recently reaffirmed their longtime commitment to the Adolph & Rose Levis JCC and to the community at large with a generous Legacy

gift. The Solomons created a brand-new award that recognizes emerging leaders who champion the Levis JCC. The Shirley and Allan B. Solomon Leadership Award will be presented

annually in perpetuity. In addition to the award, the Solomons have generously

CJL SUCCESS

named the Levis JCC as a beneficiary in their wills, ensuring their deep caring for this organization will continue long into the future. The Jewish Community Center has always been a connector to Jewish life for Shirley and Allan, their children, and their children’s children. “We really do feel that the Center provides the most opportunities for people of all ages and segments of the community to become connected to Jewish life whether the Israeli shaliach at Marleen Forkas Camps or the Sandler Center Cultural Arts trips to visit global Jewish communities,” commented Shirley. “We felt making this gift was so important because we want every Jewish person to have the opportunity to experience the richness of Jewish life in this community.” Shirley and Allan’s commitment and generosity are excellent examples of giving back to their community and building a Jewish future. With this gift, the Solomons are hoping to inspire others to connect to the Levis JCC – a vibrant and exciting place for all to come together. The Levis JCC gratefully acknowledges Create a Jewish Legacy for providing the tools to support its growing legacy giving program. CJL Community Partners: Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center, B’nai Torah Congregation, Boca Raton Synagogue, Congregation B’nai Israel, Congregation Shaarei Kodesh, Donna Klein Jewish Academy, Hillel Day School of Boca Raton, Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach, Jewish Association for Residential Care, Jewish Education Center of South Florida, Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, Ruth Rales Jewish Family Service, Temple Beth El, Torah Academy of Boca Raton, Weinbaum Yeshiva High School.

Through Create a Jewish Legacy, the Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation is preparing for the community’s future by providing our Community Partners with training and materials to help build their endowments. For more information, contact Michele Becker at 561.852.3173 or micheleb@bocafed.org.

39 CHAILIFE

PROFESSIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (PAC)

ESTATE PLANNING PROFESSIONALS LAUNCH THEIR SEASON AT PAC KICKOFF Local estate planning professionals shared much more than congenial company, prime networking, and great food and drinks at the Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation’s Professional Advisory Committee (PAC) Kickoff & Membership Drive Cocktail Reception. Gathered at Woodfield Country Club on Tuesday, October 22, 2013, they also shared a deep commitment to helping the Jewish community in a most significant way. More than 100 guests heard from event cochairs Bob Lewis and Larry Blair; Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation Chair Richard Steinberg; and PAC Co-chairs Ken Pritzker and Joel Yudenfreund. They also heard compelling personal stories from PAC members Maite Arnedo and Jim Ballerano.

Albert Gortz, David Pratt, Donald Tescher

Cliff Gelber; Mark Schaum; Richard Steinberg; JJCF Chair, David Katzman

PAC members are estate and trust attorneys, marital and family law attorneys, financial wealth advisors, accountants, trust officers and insurance professionals who encourage charitable giving through Ken Pritzker and Joel Yudenfreund, PAC Co-chairs; Larry Blair and Bob Lewis, PAC Kickoff Co-chairs the establishment of new endowment funds, trusts, bequests, life insurance policies and IRAs on behalf of their clients. Newcomers at the reception learned how the 104 PAC members provide compelling options to truly make a difference where it’s needed - through individualized restricted and unrestricted gifts that meet their clients’ philanthropic goals as well as financial interests. The PAC is grateful to Larry Blair of Greenspoon Marder Law and Richard Newman of Life Audit Professionals who were the event’s premier sponsors; and to supporting sponsors Adam Bankier of The Bankier Law Firm; Bob Lewis of Capital Group Private Client Services; Richard Josepher of Gutter Chaves Rubin Forman Fleisher Miller P.A.; Steve Lessne of GrayRobinson, P.A; Lenny Levine of Rehmann; Cliff Gelber of Steiner and Gelber; and Don Tescher and Robert Spallina of Tescher & Spallina, P.A. CHAILIFE 40

Michael Shapiro, Gary Lesser, Dan Levine

Steve Belson, Tom Kaplan

Samy Dwek, Glen Golish

Meryl Charnow, Howard Schwartz

Stuart Bloch, Maite Arnedo

Sue Wandersman; Elyssa Kupferberg, JJCF Vice Chair; Barbara Ann Shore

LIVES CHANGED, BONDS FORMED BY FIRST COMMUNITY BIRTHRIGHT BUS An energized group of young Jewish adults ages 22-26 who reside in South Palm Beach County experienced an inspiring, exciting adventure of a lifetime on a Birthright Israel trip this summer. They toured the Old City and Yad Vashem, floated in the Dead Sea, scaled Masada, rode camels and slept in a Bedouin tent in the desert as they developed relationships with one another.

“Birthright gave m e some of the greatest days of m y life. The information I lear ned not only about my homelan d, but about mysel f will always stay w ith me, as will the relationships I forged.” -Julie Goldstein

The South Palm Beach County and Sister City Kiryat Bialik delegations were supported through “Adopt-a-Projects” by Polo Club and the men of St. Andrews Country Club, as well as by the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County and its Partnership2Gether program. “It was incredible to be with Jewish

For more information about next summer’s Birthright Israel Community Bus, call 561.852.3229 or email stuarts@bocafed.org.

people from all walks of life,

starting as strangers and leaving as family. These ten short days implanted the desire to become

more active in the Jewish community and do my part in helping it grow. Birthright and Israel have changed my life.” -Mike Lempert

y life g behin d m in v a le d e “I lo v yself mersing m im d n a , e at ho m d w ith ulture fille c li e ra s I hts, into the eautiful sig b , le p o e p ships won derful new frien d d n a , d o delicio us fo e!” st a lifetim that w ill la biner -Arielle La

“ Birt h r igh

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n ne c t s p ir it u a ll y a n e mo t io n a ll d y. It wa s a p e r io d o f s e lf dis c o ve r y t h at m ade me g ro w p a s we ll a s e rs o n a ll y, w it h in m y o w n J e w ish ide n t it y.” -Da n ie l G r oss o o t s, b o t h

41 CHAILIFE

PARTNERSHIP2GETHER

CROSSING THE GENERATIONS THE BOCA-BIALIK P2G PARTNERSHIP

Though 6,500 miles away, our Federation’s Sister City Kiryat Bialik (KB) in Israel keeps getting closer through bonds of friendship and understanding. Partnership 2gether (P2G) has been building living bridges between residents and institutions to enhance both communities since our Federation adopted this Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) program in 2002. Women, teens, schoolchildren, educators and other professionals meet and take part in

exchanges both in person and through social media. They come together around common experiences and needs, and collaborate on projects of mutual concern.

Mothers and Daughters Bond with Israeli “Sisters”

Birthright Israel Extends the Family

When Kathy Green’s daughter signed up for High School in Israel last summer, there was no question that Alexa would cross the country to stay with their Kiryat Bialik family. “Our ‘sisters’ a world away share our common love for family, friendship, Judaism and community,” said Kathy, Women’s Exchange Chair. We have built a bridge that connects our lives, and we are blessed to continue the relationship with our children.” Nancy Gefen’s daughter Abby also visited KB during her summer program in Poland and Israel. As teens with Israeli relatives prepared to spend their free weekend with them, Abby asked to visit her mother’s Israeli “sisters,” where she was immediately welcomed with open arms. Nancy, a Women’s Exchange participant, and Abby truly do have family in Israel.

When our first community Birthright bus explored Israel this summer, seven Israeli soldiers and college students from Kiryat Bialik were on board. Quickly forming bonds of friendship, our young adults gained invaluable insight by seeing the country through each other’s eyes. Some already had family connections - like Noam, who stayed with a Boca family during a week spent with KB and local peers on a P2G youth exchange a few years ago, and then hosted his host mom in Kiryat Bialik. The Birthright group’s action-packed itinerary included Federation-supported Ethiopian National Project (ENP) programs in Kiryat Bialik, where they also painted and planted a new garden for the Kadima School.

At Home in Our Sister City

A Warm Welcome from Our Kiryat Bialik Hosts

Jonathan Bloom enjoyed meeting his wife Nel’s Kiryat Bialik “sisters” when they visited SPBC during last year’s Women’s Exchange, and he knew how much she loved being with them in Israel. So when the spring PAC Mission split into groups for home hospitality in KB, Jon was ready to renew the acquaintance. As Nel’s “sisters” kept arriving at his host’s home for a warm, welcoming afternoon of pizza and conversation, he realized what it meant to be part of the Boca-Bialik family. They even FaceTimed Nel together. Inspired by the personal connections, Jon and Nel look forward to seeing their “sisters” again this spring when they travel to Israel with their older son on the March of the Living.

CHAILIFE 42

They’ve created an ever-strengthening multigenerational Boca-Bialik family that enthusiastically creates opportunities to spend time and work together. Together, they’ve given new meaning to “playing Jewish geography.”

“It’s an honor to have you in my home, and we are all really one big family,” says Shlomit, who has hosted March of the Living staff and survivors for years. “We are waiting with a warm welcome for our family from South Palm Beach County.” Kathy Green and Nancy Gefen with two of their Kiryat Bialik “sisters”

“When the PAC visited, we immediately started telling jokes, sharing our lives and enjoying each other’s company,” says Suzanna, who has hosted our community’s visitors for seven years. “Our guests hear first-hand about life and issues in Israel, not just reports from officials. We only wish they could stay longer.”

yat Bialik garten in Kir er nd ki se er n’s div ant to their e so import , Ido & Mayaa m an d ho E at l, t ae en Y m ates in ng and enrich owledge or Many classm for the learni tle Jewish kn s lit ie it e un nc rt ie o er p p op may ex with Sifrayat have limited all of these tures. Some fu ng r yi ei jo th en d e rsion of ccess an ar, they’r The Israeli ve academic su is school ye y. th it al ng ip ti ic ar un st their m home. But, ounty is now ership with traditions at alm Beach C P ion in partn h at ut er o S ed F h ur . throug ks to o n spreading Bialik families Pijama, than that has bee eit to Kiryat m hk is ra d g id ro Y p g ® ry ringin the PJ Libra habits and b ant learning rt o p in im g in s place them develop e youngster th s, as cl in em ooks ed to read th e monthly b are encourag discussing th ts d en an ar g p to Hebrew, in in re ad After re m English home, whe o s fr ift g ed r at ei sl th n tran and carry ties. oks have bee special bags int PJ activi Many PJ Bo n. re ild ch r forward to jo ei k o th lo h s it ie w it ly mun regular in both com and students rs he ac te d an

Arriving from Ethiopia only a few year s ago, Yossi & Moshe’s families are still adjusting to the very different world of Kiryat Biali k. Working long hours out of necessity , they struggle to provide the home life their children need to thrive in their new com munity. Yossi needs extra help with reading and other academics. Moshe’s single moth er risks losing her job when she’s called to the school over his behavioral issues. Last fall, the P2G Women’s Exchange from our Federation and Kiryat Bialik visited the elementary school where Yossi and Mosh e attend an aftercare program for at-risk Ethiopian children. When the women discovered that the program had more enrollees than they could effectively help, they immediately jumped into action for the program’s 99 children. They gathered supplies and raised funds for addit ional staff to provide the extra help need ed in reading and math. Now Yossi gets the oneon-one tutoring time he needs, and the boys leave at the end of the day well-nourished in body and soul from their “second home.”

m of miles fro thousands es ag u g n la ent as eaking differ a friendship grown up sp they found e e, n av n h Ju ay st la m g t ongre atio t Bialik Jesse & Lia embers of C met in Kirya m ey 17 th e e. th en f h o but w as one eeks in Jun each other, on. Jesse w for three w m el m ra Is co in to t City. aveled s with a lo t our Sister class who tr Jewish teen them to visi nfirmation r co fo e d ed g ra n g 10th ram arra B’nai Israel’s ’s P2G prog Federation r u lly o , ft le ey’d persona Before they ecial buffet th sp a ith w panionship. med them usic and com B teens welco m , K od of fo up d ro oo g yed g ot there, a community. her, they enjo When they g e from which Center. Toget er ity w s un m en te om the C y teens tell which prepared at , like the man ow impossible to N as . w es it ili g m in aying nds’ fa the even e world by st their new frie By the end of ges across th ernight with rid ov b n l ed ay ow r st ei er also lding th those p sona The CBI group ip, they’re bui ey’re making sh Th er n. tn ai ar p ag r is e “In th togethe em into th s Jesse said, ating getting preceding th homeland. A r d fully anticip ou an ith – w ly al ty ic affini tron in touch elec eloping their so vital to dev rs ee p r a lifetime.” ith w ve s I will ha fo nd connections ie fr e ad m I , in Kiryat Bialik time I spent 43 CHAILIFE

OUR COMMUNITY SHOWS The Courage to Remember Exhibit A world-renowned Holocaust photo exhibit came to South Palm Beach County for the first time in October 2013. More than 1,500 people came to the Federation campus to witness, learn and commemorate in a transformed Zinman Hall. The exhibit of 40 panels was organized by the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC). From local schoolchildren to aging survivors, Jews and Rich Steinberg, Annie & Norman Jacobson, gentiles, the visitors attended special programs Ken Pritzker and public viewings of The Courage to Remember exhibit throughout the week. They came away with lessons beyond history. Giving enduring meaning to the Shoah, they reflected on hatred and bigotry to this day, and the importance of fighting for justice. Compelling testimony from Schindler’s List survivor Helen Jonas, concentration camp liberator George Sherman, and March of the Living alumnus Phillip Spector, Carole Sue LebbinSpector, Michael & Roxane Lipton Alexander Zafran highlighted JCRC’s deeply moving Opening Ceremony on October 21, with poignant, inspiring musical interludes from Cantorial Soloist Lawrence Dermer. Major donors and Federation leaders were “welcomed back” at a “sneak preview” the previous evening with Dr. Leon Weissberg. A few days later, the Young Adult Division hosted an evening of dialogue, song and remembrance with Rabbis David Louise Galpern, Marilyn Berry, Dale Filhaber Baum, Marci Bloch, Josh Broide and Greg Weisman, Cantorial Soloist Lawrence Dermer and Israeli World Boxing Champion and aspiring Rabbi Yuri Foreman. The Lions of Judah later viewed the exhibit with Dr. Rose Gatens, Director of the Center for Holocaust and Human Rights Education at FAU. Throughout the week, programs with Dr. Gatens and Federation’s Department of Jewish Education provided age-appropriate learning opportunities for 560 students from 11 area middle, high and congregational schools.

CHAILIFE 44

Dr. Stephen Grabelsky

Betty Kane, Dr. Leon Weissberg, Matt Levin, Norman & Annie Jacobson

Alfred Fried, June Strauss, Kinnie & Jerry Gorelick

Larry & Diane Feldman

Judy Swartz, Emily Grabelsky

“REMEMBERING OUR PAST AND CHERISHING OUR FUTURE, TOGETHER WE CARE AND FIGHT FOR EACH OTHER, AND BUILD RELATIONSHIPS TO HELP PROTECT AND SUSTAIN US FROM EVER-PRESENT THREATS.” ~MATTHEW C. LEVIN, FEDERATION PRESIDENT & CEO

Dr. Rose Gatens, Helen Heiman, April Leavy

Gerta Gleich, Bea Gold

Stuart Silver, Director, Jewish Community Relations Council; Matthew Levin, President & CEO; Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County; Jill Rose Co-Chair, Jewish Community Relations Council; Alfred Balitzer, PhD, Foundation for California

Alexander Zafran, MOL Alumnus

Weisman Family

George Sherman, Holocaust Liberator; Alfred Balitzer, PhD, Foundation for California; Cantor Lawrence Dermer; Helen Jonas, Holocaust Survivor; Alexander Zafran, March of the Living Alumnus

Shelley Frajman, Norman Frajman, Holocaust Survivor; Samuel Ron, Holocaust Survivor; Bilha Ron

Jill Rose, Co-Chair, Jewish Community Relations Council

Pastor Tye Riter

Gail Sack, Judi Schuman

Rabbi Josh Broide, Rabbi Greg Weisman, Rabbi Marci Bloch an Rabbi David Baum

Helen Jonas, Holocaust Survivor

George Sherman, Holocaust Liberator

Amanda & Robert Weingard, Bryan Drowos, Jeffrey Wong, Emily Einhorn, Larry Melcer, Jessica Kreger

The Courage to Remember was produced by Simon Wiesenthal Center’s Museum of Tolerance and presented by the Foundation for California. Learn more about the traveling exhibit at www.couragetoremember.com. Rabbi Marci Bloch, Rabbi David Baum, Alex Zafran, Yuri Foreman, Cantorial Soloist Lawrence Dermer, Rabbi Greg Weisman, Rabbi Josh Broide

“IN THE FACE OF EVERY IMAGINABLE AND UNIMAGINABLE ADVERSITY, THE SURVIVORS FOUND THE COURAGE TO DECLARE HINENI – HERE I AM – AND FIGHT WITH EVERY SINGLE OUNCE OF THEIR PHYSICAL AND SPIRITUAL BEING FOR ANOTHER DAY ON EARTH. . .THE SURVIVORS HAVE PROTECTED AND CARRIED THE ESSENCE OF HINENI FAR LONGER AND WITH FAR MORE SACRIFICES THAN WE WILL EVER KNOW, BUT NOW THEY MUST BE RELIEVED OF THAT DUTY. . . IT IS FOR THEM AND BECAUSE OF THEM THAT WE MUST FIND THIS COURAGE TO REMEMBER.” ~ALEX ZAFRAN, MARCH OF THE LIVING ALUMNUS 45 CHAILIFE

JEWISH COMMUNITY RELATIONS COUNCIL (JCRC)

NEW CO-CHAIRS, SPECIAL GUESTS OPEN JCRC YEAR With new and familiar faces, the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) gathered at the Federation to begin their new year on August 21, 2013. The Sebastián Halperin, Sergio Pikholtz, Uriel Aiskovich and Fedérico Gaon with gavel was passed to new JCRC Co-chairs Jill Rose and Andrew JCRC Co-chairs Andrew Robins Robins, a past chair of the Federation, and long-time lay leader Jill Rose, before two special presentations. Representatives of Shagriria described their Argentinabased program that combats anti-Israel rhetoric on college campuses and throughout the greater community. Shagriria’s work is sponsored by the Schusterman Foundation and supported by the Embassy of Israel in Argentina. “We were very much taken by Shagriria, and welcome the influence they can have on the US-based Hispanic population,” said Jill Rose. Guest speaker, Bernie Friedman, Esq., who represents the interests of all Jewish Federations in the state of Florida,

then briefed the JCRC and answered questions about the upcoming legislative session. The JCRC meeting on October 15 introduced new members Raina Goldberg, Executive Director, Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach; and Sherri Siskin, Executive Director, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) Palm Beach & Broward Region, who addressed the group about their organizations. As the public-policy, community relations and advocacy arm of the Federation, the JCRC helps to unite, support and direct the local organized Jewish community and keep the community apprised of issues from local to global that affect us.

JCRC Executive Committee member Chester Kay, Judith Kay

Dr. Peter Holland, JCRC Executive Committee member Dr. Donna Holland

Margie Baer, JCRC Executive Committee member Bill Schwartz

CONGREGATION B’NAI ISRAEL SPEAKER SERIES Professor Alan Dershowitz: Inside Israel Today Tuesday, December 17, 7:30 pm

Lawyer & political commentator, Harvard Law Professor Alan Dershowitz is well-regarded as a defender of individual rights and as a passionate proponent of Israel. His talk this evening will be “Inside Israel Today.” Professor Dershowitz is quite prolific. He has published hundreds of articles, and is the author of twenty-seven fiction and non-fiction books. There will be a book signing after his talk where he will sign his new autobiography, Taking The Stand: My Life in the Law.

Dr. Maya Angelou: Race Relations Thursday, Januuary 16, 7:30 pm

Dr. Maya Angelou is one of the most “renowned and influential voices of our time.” Pulitzer Prize nominee, poet, educator, novelist, historian and civil rights activist, Dr. Angelou speaks a message of faith, hope and love. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. asked her to serve as Northern Coordinator for the South Christian Leadership Conference. After Dr. King’s death, she published I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. This evening, we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Day, and on the 30th anniversary of our special relationship with Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, we welcome their members and all of our community guests.

50 Children: The Rescue Mission of Mr. & Mrs Kraus

Film Screening & Conversation in partnership with The US Holocaust Memorial Museum Thursday, February 6, 7:00 pm

Gilbert Kraus and his wife, Eleanor, were two Americans who successfully rescued 50 Jewish children from Vienna in 1939, just a few months after Kristallnacht. A panel discussion will follow, with an introduction by Rabbi Robert Silvers, and guest speakers: Steven Pressman, Director/Filmmaker, Daniel Kraus, Grandson of Gilbert & Eleanor Kraus, and Paul Shapiro, Director, Center for Advanced Holocaust Studies, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

RSVP: www.cbiboca.org/speakerseries 2200 Yamato Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431 WWW.CBIBOCA.ORG 561.241.8118 CHAILIFE 46

ker Spea ries Se

ADOLPH & ROSE LEVIS JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

YOU BELONG HERE 9801 Donna Klein Boulevard, Boca Raton, FL 33428 • www.levisjcc.org

Levis JCC Thrift Shop Upscale, resale, new, vintage and designer items, even an antique or two— smart shopping has never looked so good.

ing to Com

Raton Boca Summer (561) 368-3665 • www.levisjcc.org/thrift 2014

Human Rights Activist Edith & Martin Stein Distinguished Lecturer

Over a 28 year period, Judy Feld Carr secretly brought 3,228 Jews to freedom from Syria. In June, 2012, Judy was one of the first recipients of The Presidential Award of Distinction of the State of Israel.

Wednesday, January 29, 7:30 p.m.

Zinman Hall, 9901 Donna Klein Blvd., Boca Raton

Plum Park Plaza • 141 NW 20th Street • Boca Raton, FL 33431

All proceeds directly support Levis JCC programs, including the Betty & Marvin Zale Early Childhood Learning Center, the Marleen Forkas Camps, and the Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Programs. Tax receipts are issued at time of donation.

Call the Box Office (561) 558-2512 Adolph and Rose Levis Jewish Community Center

Helene & Roy Schwedelson

ing to Com

Raton Boca umm er S 2014

Special Needs Programs

Time to Shine

JCC MACCABI GAMES

August 10-15 • 2014

ART, CULTURE & LEARNING Judy Feld Carr

ductible Tax-de ns of donatio ntly ge new or s are em it d e s u ed with accept de. t gra itu

Proudly hosted by the Adolph & Rose Levis JCC

Levis JCC Phyllis & Harvey Sandler Center for Jewish Life Enhancement and the Cultural Arts Department

Providing high quality social, cultural, recreational and educational programs to individuals ages 4 through 50 wwith special needs. • Fit & Fun Sports • Marleen Forkas Camp Kavod • Otzar Sunday School • Project Ride

Join our team as a: Athlete AGES 12-16

Host Family Volunteer

Sponsor

Coach

Connect with us at facebook.com/boca.maccabi.2014

(561) 852-3206 • www.bocamaccabi.org

• Schwedelson Adult Social Programs • Move & Mingle Adult Fitness • Savvy: Safety & Self-Defense • On-the Job Training Site • Volunteer Opportunities

Marianne Jacobs, Director mariannej@levisjcc.org or call 561-852-3256

Betty & Marvin Zale Early Childhood Learning Center • Sports & Wellness • Marleen Forkas Camps Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Programs • Levis JCC Thrift Shop • Host of JCC Maccabi Games® 2014 Art, Culture & Learning at the Phyllis & Harvey Sandler Center for Jewish Life Enhancement

47 CHAILIFE

JEWISH EDUCATION

200 JEWISH EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS LEARN “POWER OF MUSIC” “The Power of Music” headlined this year’s fall professional development conference for South Palm Beach County’s Early Childhood educators. On August 21, 2013, Ellen Allard presented an exciting, interactive full morning in Zinman Hall on the Federation campus. Two hundred educators and directors from seven local Jewish Early Childhood Centers sang, danced and carried away a variety of teaching tools through Allard’s workshops: Sing it! Say it! Stamp it!; 10 Top Secrets for Using Songs to Support Skill Development in the Classroom: and Tot Shabbat in the Early Childhood Classroom-The Unplugged Version. Ellen Allard is a multi-award-winning recording artist, composer, performer and educator, and one of the most popular and influential Jewish touring musicians and educators today. Allard specializes in music for young children but claims a fanbase of all ages. Her music melds the creative with the spiritual, knowing exactly how to engage young children and hold their attention.

CONGREGATION BETH ADAM South Florida Center for Humanistic Judaism

Regain your Jewish heritage. Come and discover Humanistic Judaism. We stress personal responsibility, the importance of the modern family, being a member of the Jewish community and having an awareness of our Jewish Heritage and morality. Our services are traditional and non-theistic. Our Sunday School, now in its 19th year under the direction of BJ Saul, passes these ideals on to the next generation...your kids. Our classes are held at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday mornings on the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County campus (9901 Donna Klein Blvd., Boca Raton). We are Here For You. Come for your mind...stay for your heart.

Services conducted by: BJ Saul, Madrikha, Ceremonial Leader For information, contact 561.443.1769 or visit www.bethadam.com. For information concerning Beth Adam membership, contact Diane Tuschman at 561.488.5559. CHAILIFE 48

Enthusiastic educators’ comments made clear they were fans of Allard’s program, including: “A totally motivating workshop full of energy,” and “I used to say I don’t sing but now I really have confidence to bring music into my classroom.” The program was sponsored by the Council of Early Childhood Directors of South Palm Beach County; the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County Department of Jewish Education’s School Educational Services; and the Jack and Harriet Rosenfeld Program in Jewish Education of the University of Miami.

G N I L L A C N MELTO TES A U D A 4 GR urses 577 Co Graduate 2013-2014

Children’s Parties Birthday Parties School Concerts

WINTER 2014 New! Bamidbar: Leadership Defied and Defended - Paul Azaroff Mon. 10 – 11:30 a.m. Jan. 6 – Mar. 17, 2014 Sandler Center on the Federation campus

New! Bamidbar: Leadership Defied and Defended - Marion Hirschmann Thurs. 10:30 a.m. – 12 noon Jan. 9 - Mar. 13, 2014 B’nai Torah Congregation

Children’s Recording Artist & Entertainer

561-302-7657

susan@singinwithsusan.com www.singinwithsusan.com

Tuition is $300 per course. Classes will fill up quickly, so call 561.852.6050 or email barbarak@bocafed.org soon! A Project of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Sponsored locally by the Department of Jewish Education of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County

SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTY IS A PROUD

Community! All families in South Palm Beach County raising Jewish children from ages 6 months through 8 years can receive a free high-quality Jewish children’s book every month.

SIGN UP NOW FOR THIS FREE GIFT! www.pjlibrary.org and select South Palm Beach County like us now on facebook at pjlibrarysouthpalmbeach for updates and events. For questions or information, please contact PJ Library Director, Elana Ostroff at 561.852.6080 or email at pjlibrary@bocafed.org

The PJ Library® - South Palm Beach County Partnership is made possible by generous support from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, Union for Reform Judaism, Leon and Toby Cooperman Family Foundation and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation.

49 CHAILIFE

JEWISH EDUCATION

SUMMER FUN WITH PJ LIBRARY® The excitement continues to grow for PJ Library in South Palm Beach County! This became more and more evident with the tremendous turnout for PJ’s summer events all around town. During July and August, over 400 children and parents enjoyed six educational, entertaining and community-building PJ Library activities.

Keeping cool with ice cream and signing up for PJ Library at Carvel

Story time at Barnes & Noble with magician, Elnadav “the great”

Story and singing for under 2’s with B’nai Torah Congregation at Barnes & Noble

Apples & Honey Tot Shabbat at Temple Beth El

First Shabbats! at Congregation Shaarei Kodesh

The Magic of Selichot at Congregation B’nai Israel CHAILIFE 50

RICK RECHT ROCKS PJ LIBRARY COMMUNITY KICK OFF

ore than 500 children, parents and grandparents all gathered together on October 6 for an afternoon of fun with PJ Library in South Palm Beach County and Jewish Rock musician, Rick Recht. Prior to the highly anticipated concert, families had a great time indoors and out with Susan Shane Linder of “Singing with Miss Susan.” They also enjoyed a balloon artist, face painter and raffle prizes including free synagogue memberships, free religious school tuition, gift certificates and more! Rick’s high energy performance at Spanish River High School was a huge hit for all ages, with the entire crowd singing, jumping and clapping along. 51 CHAILIFE

LOCAL BENEFICIARY AGENCIES ADOLPH & ROSE LEVIS JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER (JCC) 561.852.3200 • www.levisjcc.org Since 1983, the Adolph & Rose Levis JCC has been a cornerstone of our Jewish community. Providing a broad range of enriching programs and services for individuals of all ages that meet the diverse needs of our community, the Levis JCC promotes and enhances Jewish culture, heritage, and values through educational, spiritual, social, wellness and recreational programs. The Levis JCC offers high quality programming at the Phyllis & Harvey Sandler Center for Jewish Life Enhancement, the Betty & Marvin Zale Early Childhood Learning Center, the Marleen Forkas Camps, the Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Programs and through the Sports & Wellness Center. In addition, the Levis JCC operates one of “Boca’s Best” thrift shops. The Levis JCC truly offers something for everyone. From August 10 – 15, 2014, the Levis JCC and our community will proudly host the JCC Maccabi Games® and warmly welcome more than a thousand Jewish teenage athletes and their families from across the country and around the world to our community. This “Time to Shine” promises to engage and connect the entire community with the Levis JCC and with each other. There are many ways to “join the team” in this unique and rewarding experience: serve on a committee, serve food to athletes during the Games, be a host family, become a sponsor, or volunteer to help out at events. For more information about getting involved, visit www.bocamaccabi.org.

DONNA KLEIN JEWISH ACADEMY (DKJA)

561.852.3300 • www.dkja.org Now in its 35th year, Donna Klein Jewish Academy provides a unique educational experience emphasizing the importance of Jewish living, learning, and academic achievement. The school’s mission is to educate our children and the DKJA community to be knowledgeable and responsible citizens of the world, committed to Jewish values and lifelong learning. As the only K-12 Jewish Community Day School in the country to have earned recognition as a FranklinCovey Leader In Me School, DKJA serves approximately 630 students.

The arts and technology are integrated into teaching and learning at DKJA.

DKJA Grows Leaders: Known for preparing today’s students as leaders in learning – and so much more – DKJA is truly a cutting edge, 21st century school. DKJA is in its fourth year as a FrankinCovey Leader In Me school and cultivates a culture of leadership, personal responsibility and respect. The school’s learning initiatives are focused on innovation and include programs that incorporate science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). Among them are E2K – Education 2000, which teaches students problem solving and collaborative skills in science and mathematics, robotics, and entrepreneurship. Students benefit from technology, such as iPads, LearnPads, SMART Boards and e-books, equipping them for today’s digital world. According to Head of School Karen Feller, “Our students are already leaders in their community, but we go the extra step by preparing them for even greater roles and to be successful in college and beyond.”

Robotics is fun for Michael Linden, Dalia Fixler, Tyler Asal and Noah Siegel.

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LOCAL BENEFICIARY AGENCIES JEWISH ASSOCIATION FOR RESIDENTIAL CARE (JARC) 561.558.2550 • www.jarcfl.org “STRIKE Up Some Fun” The Jewish Association for Residential Care, a non-sectarian organization, provides group homes, apartments and vocational training for adults with developmental disabilities. JARC strives to assist each individual in becoming all he or she is capable of being, encouraging this growth in a caring, nurturing environment. JARC’s mission, in partnership with clients’ families, is to promote independence, dignity and self-respect in order to create more fulfilling lives. The 5th Annual Leslie Goldberg Memorial Bowling Fundraiser was held on October 13, 2013. Over 250 clients, families and supporters came to play at Strikes in Boca Raton! In addition to bowling, participants enjoyed a Chinese Auction and a pizza party. It was a record year for this event, which raised almost $20,000 for JARC’s Adult Day Training Program. The money raised will be used to purchase iPads for JARC clients. JARC’s Supporter Nikki Joffe, recently turning 31, started a campaign to support JARC’s culinary program in which her sister Hayley participates. Nikki named the campaign “31 days until Nikki turns 31,” and asked friends to each donate $31. She received huge support with many people donating more than the requested $31. All proceeds from her campaign will be going to buy much needed items for Café 95.

RUTH RALES JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE (JFS)

561.852.3333 • www.ruthralesjfs.org New Hunger Initiatives for Local Seniors and Single Parents Ruth Rales Jewish Family Service has been committed to enhancing and improving the quality of life for all members of the community since 1979. With locations in Boca Raton and Delray Beach, the agency’s comprehensive range of programs and services support people of all ages and beliefs. For more than 17 years JFS has been helping alleviate hunger through a food pantry with supplemental grocery deliveries. A growing population of local seniors is struggling to get adequate nutrition at home. Many seniors are outliving their resources or no longer able to cook, and large cuts to federal nutrition programs are making the situation more dire. Therefore, JFS has developed its new Meals on Wheels Program. Each week, seniors receive balanced meals that allow them to age in their homes safely for as long as possible. Prepared by JARC and packed in microwave-safe containers, the tasty low sodium, kosher meals are delivered by volunteers. While some recipients pay $7.00 per meal, financial subsidy is available to those who qualify, thanks to support from JFS, the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County and private donors. Providing nutritious meals to their families can also be very challenging to single Jewish parents operating on a limited household budget. But a group of them is about to learn how to make it all work and enjoy it. Thanks to a grant from the Jewish Women’s Foundation (JWF), they’ll be part of a six-session “Let’s Get Healthy” program to learn about budgeting, nutrition, cooking and shopping – free of charge and including child care.

53 CHAILIFE

LOCAL BENEFICIARY AGENCIES ADOLPH AND ROSE LEVIS ALZHEIMER & ADULT DAY CARE

561.558.2510 • www.maevolen.com This full-time weekday program operated by the Volen Center serves those with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and provides caregivers with much needed respite. A caring staff leads daily participants in enriching mental and physical activities and provides stimulating entertainment. Breakfast and lunch are served. A support group is also offered for caregivers. BBYO GOLD COAST REGION • 954.252.1912 • www.goldcoastbbyo.org BBYO offers safe and welcoming opportunities for learning and growth to all Jewish teens regardless of background, denominational affiliation, sexual orientation or socio-economic status. BBYO encourages Jewish teens to find meaning in Judaism and to develop their own Jewish identities. Committed to a pluralistic experience, BBYO attempts to accommodate and provide a comfortable environment across the halachic (Jewish law) spectrum. BBYO’s international leadership model, AZA and BBG, prides itself on fun and meaningful teen-led programming, responsibility to the global Jewish community, unwavering commitment to the State of Israel, and dedication to tikkun olam – repairing the world. FEDERATION TRANSPORTATION SERVICES • 561.852.3280

www.jewishboca.org Federation Transportation Services, Inc. (FTS) was established in 1993 to respond to the overwhelming demand for transportation services for the elderly and disabled in South Palm Beach County. FTS services the continuing and growing need for transportation to get to medical and life-sustaining activities such as doctor appointments, grocery shopping, pharmacies and local congregate hot meal sites when families cannot provide assistance. Over the past two years FTS services have expanded into Northern Broward County. Even in tough economic years, FTS has been successful in providing 52,000 trips for those in need. Financial assistance is available based on each client’s eligibility to qualify for government programs. For more information please contact the FTS office. HILLEL DAY SCHOOL OF BOCA RATON • 561.470.5000 • www.hilleldayschool.org Hillel Day School of Boca Raton, a modern Orthodox Jewish Day School committed to excellence in Torah and secular studies, celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year. Since opening its doors in 1989 with 42 students, the school has grown to serve 481 students from age 2 through 8th grade. Now located on the 15-acre Milton B. Katz Campus, Hillel provides over $1.5 million in scholarships to families in need. The school’s accomplishments will be commemorated on December 16, 2013, at the 25th Anniversary Journal Event & Celebration. The event will also honor community members Dr. David & Sharona Kay; Rabbi Samuel J. Levine, Head of School, upon his retirement; and Maia Shaffer, Athletic Director, for her 13 years of service to the school.

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HILLEL OF BROWARD AND PALM BEACH • 561.297.4100 • www.hillelcenter.org Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach welcomed more than 8,000 Jewish undergraduate and graduate students to their South Florida campuses this Fall, as well as their new Executive Director, Raina Goldberg, new Israel Fellow, Lital Pendler, and other new staff members. Hillel’s professional staff immediately got to work with student leaders to engage and welcome new students to programs such as high holiday meals and learning opportunities with their campus rabbi. “Pizza in the Hut” and “Sushi in the Sukkah” were two of Hillel’s most successful programs, welcoming students hungry for food and spiritual sustenance under the Sukkot on three campuses. Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach is proud to provide innovative educational, social action and engagement programming along with Shabbat and holiday meals.

LOCAL BENEFICIARY AGENCIES KOSHER KONNECTION • 561.495.8808 • www.maevolen.com This hot kosher meal program is one of seven senior dining sites operated by the Volen Center. Providing meals five days a week to seniors 60 and over and funded by the Older Americans Act, this kosher dining site offers much-needed opportunities for socializing. Volen Center staff and volunteers provided by the Jewish Federation welcome seniors daily, providing nutrition education, activities, and opportunities to meet new friends. The Volen Center also provides no-cost transportation to and from its dining sites. TORAH ACADEMY OF BOCA RATON • 561.347.1821 www.torahacademybr.org Torah Academy of Boca Raton unveiled another amazing year with a full house of 260 students from Early Childhood through 8th grade; dynamic, new additions to the staff; and exciting and innovative curriculum. Since its founding, Torah Academy’s goals have included promoting a lifelong commitment and passion to Torah study and ethical growth, providing an outstanding Judaic and secular curriculum, inspiring a love and commitment to Eretz Yisroel, and preparing students to become productive members of the Jewish community. Torah Academy kicked off the season with their 7th Annual Golf Tournament and Mega BBQ at Boca Lago Country Club on October 21. Organized and executed by energetic and dedicated lay leadership, the sponsorships, golfers, dinner attendees and money raised hit record numbers! The evening was highlighted by the famous Mega BBQ featuring Dr. B’s Rib Shack, and the award ceremony. It was a successful and fun-filled day! WEINBAUM YESHIVA HIGH SCHOOL • 561.470.5000 • www.wyhs.net Weinbaum Yeshiva High School inspires over 250 students to make a life-long commitment to Jewish values, learning and observance through a full curriculum of Judaic and general studies. A WYHS education is characterized by the vibrancy of the formal and informal learning that is fostered both inside and outside of school. Complementing the education that prepares students for the highest levels of learning in yeshivot and colleges upon graduation is a well rounded extracurricular, athletic and community service program that brings out the best in students as they contribute to the broader community. Every holiday is meaningfully celebrated or commemorated and each Rosh Chodesh is welcomed with a special program. The school’s commitment to the values of Religious Zionism, a hallmark of its philosophy, is communicated by a strong commitment to the State of Israel with educational programming throughout the year.

Chai Life and the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, Inc. (“Federation”), neither endorses nor is responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any opinion, advice or statement made in Chai Life by anyone other than authorized Chai Life or Federation employee spokespersons while acting in their official capacities. Under no circumstances will Chai Life or Federation be liable for any loss or damage caused by a reader’s reliance on information obtained through Chai Life or Federation. It is the responsibility of the reader to evaluate the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information, opinion, advice or other content available through Chai Life and/ or Federation. Please seek the advice of professionals, as appropriate, regarding the evaluation of any specific information, opinion, advice or other content. The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County does not endorse or certify the kashrut of any advertised establishment. Please confirm appropriate supervision before patronizing businesses represented here. 55 CHAILIFE

SYNAGOGUE UPDATES B’NAI TORAH CONGREGATION (C)

6261 SW 18th Street, Boca Raton • 561.392.8566 • www.bnai-torah.org B’nai Torah Congregation offers exceptional spiritual, social and educational programming for all generations - from world-class concerts, to author forums, to Shabbat and holiday experiences for the youngest “tots,” to their Hazak adult community. B’nai Torah has an outstanding B’nai Mitzvah program, and is proud to offer a comprehensive social action program to help those in need. There is something for everyone! Special associate rates are now being offered; contact the synagogue for more information. BOCA JEWISH CENTER/SHAARAY TEFILLA (O)

21065 Powerline Road, Boca Raton • 561-477-8872 • www.bjcst.org Boca Jewish Center/Shaaray Tefilla welcomes Jews of all levels of observance to daven, learn, attend services and enjoy activities and events. In addition to daily and weekly classes Rabbi Gibber offers one-on-one learning and spiritual guidance. The dynamic Sisterhood has doubled its size in the last year. From Torah study to cooking demonstrations, from teens working to earn community service hours to Bugle babies, activities for every age and stage of life are offered in a warm and supportive Jewish environment. BOCA RATON SYNAGOGUE (O) 7900 Montoya Circle, Boca Raton • 561.394.0394 • www.brsonline.org BRS is offering a unique Journey through Jewish History. Building on last year’s success, the synagogue will once again be offering the wildly popular “People of the Book” course. The course introduces participants to some of the influential Jewish books written over the last 2,000 years. Each week, they discover a fundamental and monumental work, the history behind it, its author, and its importance to Jewish tradition. For more information contact 561.394.0394 or office@brsonline.org CHABAD CENTRAL OF BOCA RATON (O)

17950 Military Trail, Boca Raton 561.994.6257 • www.ChabadofBocaRaton.com The atmosphere at Chabad reflects a continued commitment to providing every Jew an opportunity to grow in their Judaism and become more involved with their traditions and heritage. Chabad Central presently offers daily services, Shabbatons, adult education, holiday programs, a Bar and Bat Mitzvah Club, Women’s Circle, Chesed programs, social activities for all ages, and a newly completed Mikvah. CHABAD OF EAST BOCA (O)

120 NE 1st Ave, Boca Raton, FL 33432 • 561.417.7797 • www.ChabadBocaBeaches.com Chabad of East Boca is excited to launch ISRAEL CONNECT - a tutoring program that links Boca Ratonians with high school students in Israel. Once a week, from the comfort of their own homes, Boca volunteers log on to Skype and tutor an underprivileged Israeli teen in English language skills. Ahuva New, director of the program, provides all the course material and training in Skype for volunteers who gain a tremendous sense of accomplishment as tutors and mentors. CHABAD OF WEST BOCA RATON (O)

9040 Kimberly Blvd, Boca Raton 561.994.6257 • www.ChabadofBocaRaton.com Chabad West has acquired a new property and plans are underway to construct a 12,000 sq. foot facility, which will be completed in time for the 2014 high holidays. It will be home to the synagogue, the Jeff Weltman Hebrew School, a youth video lounge, Mikvah, and lecture hall. Chabad remains committed to providing each Jew an opportunity to grow in their Judaism through adult education, youth programs, daily services, holiday programs and social activities. CHAILIFE 56

SYNAGOGUE UPDATES CONGREGATION BETH ADAM (H)

PO Box 2579, Boca Raton 561.443.1769 • www.bethadam.com As they have done every year for the past 19 years, Beth Adam greeted the New Year on Rosh Hashanah and followed with a Humanistic observance of Yom Kippur. Bob Fishman, a concert violinist, offered a rendition of Kol Nidre and the Sunday School children presented their yearly atonements. As always, for the members of Beth Adam it was both a joyous and a solemn occasion. CONGREGATION B’NAI ISRAEL (R)

2200 Yamato Rd., Boca Raton • 561.241.8118 • www.cbiboca.org With the Nagle Family Jewish Film Festival, Congregation B’nai Israel is presenting a series of inspiring films. Thought-provoking speakers will introduce each film and lead a discussion afterward, on Wednesdays November 6, December 4, January 8, March 5, April 2, May 7 in the Hollander Family Chapel at 7:00 pm. Desserts follow each film. The program is FREE for members and $10 per film for non-members. RSVP at www.cbiboca.org/adultlearning. CONGREGATION SHAAREI KODESH (C)

19785 Hampton Dr., Boca Raton • 561.852.6555 • www.shaareikodesh.org Congregation Shaarei Kodesh, a vibrant multi-generational conservative congregation in West Boca knows how to get people out to raise a sukkah: offer them wings and a gourmet beer tasting session and they will come. Log on to their website to find out about their upcoming concert “Davening Divas of CSK” with a guest appearance by Bagels & Box on December 8, 2013. CONGREGATION SHIRAT SHALOM (R) PO Box 971142, Boca Raton (meeting at Olympic Heights High School) • 561.488.8079 www.shiratshalom.org Shirat Shalom Puppets were excited to bring the story of “Jonah and the Whale” to children and parents during the Yom Kippur Children’s Service. Mr. Whale had quite a stomach ache after swallowing Jonah but, to everyone’s delight, he managed to continue on with the show. The puppets are currently working with the fourth and fifth graders during Hebrew School to present “Stories of the Rabbis.” Mr. Whale is on sabbatical until next Yom Kippur. KOL AMI OF BOCA RATON (R)

2601 St. Andrews Blvd, Boca Raton 561.392.0696 • kolami1@aol.com Judy Petsonk, journalist, teacher and author, was the guest speaker during a Shabbat morning service at Kol Ami. She is the author of Queen of the Jews. This historical novel tells the story of Queen Salome Alexandra (Shalom-Zion), who married a grandson of the Maccabees and saved the rabbis when her tyrant husband tried to exterminate them. This inspiring but unsung heroine challenged the priests, rescued rabbinic Judaism and advanced the rights of Jewish women. TEMPLE ANSHEI SHALOM (C)

7099 West Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach 561.495.1300 • www.templeansheishalom.org On December 24 at 7:00 pm, this vibrant Delray synagogue of the future will present the “14th Annual Cantor Sapir & Friends” concert starring Maestro Aaron Kula and The Klezmer Company Orchestra with star soloist Cantor Efraim Sapir. The theme of the show will be “Klezmer Meets Jazz.” Tickets are on sale in the ticket office Monday-Thursday 9:30 am - 11:30 am or by calling (561) 495-1300. Reserved seating is $25. General admission is $18 in advance or it will be $20 at the door.

57 CHAILIFE

SYNAGOGUE UPDATES TEMPLE BETH EL OF BOCA RATON (R)

333 SW 4th Ave., Boca Raton; 9800 Yamato Rd., Boca Raton • 561.391.8900 • www.tbeboca.org Especially created for Temple Beth El members in their mid-sixties and up, the Senior Circle provides ongoing social, educational and cultural programs designed to stimulate the mind and entice the spirit. The festive Sunday afternoon kick-off event, “L’Chaim! Jews, Food and Wine!” included lunch, wine and an examination of food and wine in Judaism from the origins of our people to the present day. TEMPLE BETH SHALOM OF BOCA RATON (C)

19140 Lyons Road, Boca Raton • 561.483.5557 www.bethshalombocaraton.org Temple Beth Shalom’s Adult Education Program will include eight weekly lectures during November and December. Four lectures presented by Rabbi Henry Balser will explore aspects of Jewish custom and prayer and pertinent Jewish literature; other lectures will explore the The Jewish Pirates of the Caribbean, Jews of the Orient, the Hebrew Alphabet and Jewish Music for our Times. The lectures are open to the community but all attendees must register in advance. TEMPLE EMETH (C)

5780 West Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach • 561.498.3536 www.temple-emeth.org Cantor Stephen Texon of Temple Emeth will perform in a special concert at the temple on Sunday, December 22 starting at 2:00 pm. The theme will be “Deep in the Heart of Texon,” featuring romantic music in many styles and genres. Cantor Texon is noted for his operatically-trained baritone voice. Sharing the stage with Cantor Texon will be two highly acclaimed Cantors: Cantor Michelle Auslander-Cohen, Soprano, and Cantor Irving Grossman, Tenor. TEMPLE SINAI (R) 2475 West Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach • 561.276.6161 • www.templesinaipbc.com Greg Kanter is the Rabbi and Margarer Schmitt is Cantorial Soloist for Temple Sinai in Delray Beach. The congregation recently enjoyed a potluck supper; the temple provided the chicken and everyone else contributed salads, fruit, vegetables and drinks. Particularly appreciated were the young congregants who blew the shofar at the family service. Margaret Schmitt spoke about Beverly Sills at the Brotherhood breakfast, the Book Club had a successful first meeting, and other adult education programs are planned.

A PUBLICATION OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTY

RESERVE SPACE FOR THE NEXT ISSUE Reach Your Target Audience With Federation’s Chai Life Magazine For advertising inquiries, please contact Mandee Baulo at 561.852.3179 or mandeeb@bocafed.org. CHAILIFE 58

m ogra r P rs rtne a P ate rpor o C our with A business partnership with the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County will… • Showcase your company’s offerings • Give maximum exposure with key targets throughout Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Highland Beach • Highlight your commitment to the community • Provide much-needed funds to continue the Federation’s life-saving work

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CORPORATE SPONSORS* $25,000+

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Deepest thanks to Morrison, Brown, Argiz & Farra, LLC; Proskauer; and Steinberg Global Asset Management, LTD for their ongoing generous corporate sponsorship of our Federation’s King David Society (KDS) and Major Gifts Programs.

Photography • Graphic Design Conventional & Digital Printing Al Gortz, Proskauer; Richard Steinberg, Steinberg Global; Ed Smith, MBAF; Marjorie Horwin, MBAF; David Pratt, Proskauer; Ken Pritzker, Steinberg Global

Morrison, Brown, Argiz & Farra, LLC (MBAF) is ranked nationally as a Top 40 accounting and advisory firm by Accounting Today; and was named one of the 2013 Top Five Best of the Best firms in the country by INSIDE Public Accounting. MBAF has more than 400 highly qualified principals and employees in more than 44 countries and all 50 states, and remains deeply committed to the Jewish Federation and its agencies. For more information, please contact Marjorie A. Horwin, CPA, Principal at 561.909.2100. www.mbafcpa.com Proskauer is a global law firm with more than 700 lawyers providing a wide variety of legal services to clients worldwide. Proskauer is committed to its motto of “Doing well, by doing good.” Proskauer’s Boca Raton office is proud to partner with the Jewish Federation and to help make a difference in the communities where we live and work. For information, contact Al Gortz or David Pratt at 561.241.7400. www.proskauer.com Steinberg Global Asset Management, LTD is focused on securing the future you have always envisioned and a lifestyle you’ve already earned by taking a personal interest in your financial present and future, and that of your family, business and legacy. Steinberg Global offers a trusted group of private advisors who manage clients’ wealth while they enjoy their lives. Steinberg Global remains deeply committed to the Jewish community through the Jewish Federation and its agencies. For more information, please contact Richard Steinberg at 561.750.0800.

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