Federation Star - July/August 2022

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Wishing everyone a happy and safe Fourth of July!

OF GREATER NAPLES

CELEBRATING JEWISH LIFE IN GREATER NAPLES, ISRAEL AND THE WORLD

FEDERATI N STAR

Published by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

SERVING NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND AND THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

www.JewishNaples.org  July/August 2022 – Tamuz/Elul 5782  Vol. 31 #11

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Men’s Cultural Alliance

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Women’s Cultural Alliance

An interview with Building Committee Chair Marc Saperstein

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Community Focus

By Marcy Friedland, Capital Campaign & Planned Giving Director

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Tributes

17

Jewish Interest

20

Israel & The Jewish World

21

Organizations

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Commentary

23

Synagogue News

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Focus on Youth

27

Community Directory

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Joshua Jay, author of “How Magicians Think,” will present his book with a discussion about why magic matters.

PAID

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Ste. 2201 Naples, FL 34109

Fort Myers, FL Permit No 1101

Non Profit Org U.S. Postage

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t was my distinct pleasure to interview Marc Saperstein, vice-chair of the JFGN board and chair of the Building Committee, for this Federation Star edition. Below are my questions and his answers. MDF – Tell us a little about yourself and your family. How long have you been in Naples? MS – My wife, Joan, and I have been married 50 years this June and we moved to Naples in 2007 when I retired from General Electric after 33 years with the company. We are Florida residents and spend our summers in Milwaukee, Wisconsin where we have had a home since 1993. We have a son and a daughter who are each happily married to wonderful spouses, and we have four incredible grandchildren. MDF – What made you decide to give your time and contributions to JFGN? MS – I was on the BBYO International Board of Directors about 5 years in 2012 when I decided to try to start a BBYO chapter in Naples along with my local co-chair, Bobbie Katz. Jewish Federation of Greater Naples was incredibly supportive of that effort, helping introduce us to our partners — Temple Shalom, Chabad of Naples and Beth Tikvah — contributing to us financially and providing office space for our BBYO professional. I saw directly how critical JFGN is in supporting our growing Jewish community. At the same time, my wife became involved with WCA, which not only provided great activities for her, but introduced us to many of our

before JFGN initiated its first significant strategic plan. MDF – What position do you hold, or have you held, on the board and what has your experience been? MS – I’ve been board secretary, chair of the Governance Committee and, most recently, one of our vice chairs. Currently, I am leading our effort to build the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. MDF – What made you volunteer to be the chair of the Building Committee? MS – Our strategic plan in 2017 called for finding a larger home for JFGN and, when no one else volunteered, I felt it was critical we start to make progress in locating property and offered to take on the role. I’m not sure in retrospect, I realized it might lead to overseeing the building effort itself. MDF – Tell us a bit about your building committee and its members. MS – The building committee has been meeting every 3 to 4 weeks since January 2019, after we reached an agreement with Temple Shalom to build on its campus. We have 15 dedicated and knowledgeable members of the Building Committee whose role is to give us insight and suggestions on many of the decisions and challenges we face. Merlin Lickhalter is my co-chair and wingman. MDF – What have been your highs and lows during the construction process? MS – My highs are when I review our progress with our board, which has been continued on page 2

Marc Saperstein current Naples friends. When I was invited to join the Federation Board, I decided to become active in what I saw was a great organization. MDF – How long have you been a donor/lay leader at JFGN? MS – We have been donors to this Federation since we moved here (and, like so many snowbirds, still support our northern Federation). But Naples is our primary home now and we have shifted our priorities towards our new home. I joined the Board in 2016, just

“He Lost it in the Catskills” Join author Jerry Greenfield for a discussion about his book.

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Hebrew Conversations If you can speak in Hebrew and want to practice, join this new group!

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Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

July/August 2022

Let the planning for next season begin!

S

ummertime — and the living is easy! Forget about that cliché this summer. With the building nearing completion, we are up to our armpits in alligators! Clichés aside, we are superduper busy. All the usual planning for the upcoming season is on steroids as we try to figure out when we will move into our amazing new Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. Moving, as we all know, is one of life’s most traumatic changes, right up there with birth, marriage, divorce and death. And, with everyone in the office moving at the same time, it’s a bit overwhelming. Planning the big move is made even more difficult as we don’t know our exact move date. What programs will we have next year? When and, more importantly, where will they be? If we move in November, we can start programming for the new rooms in

an interview...continued from page 1 so supportive of what we are trying to accomplish, and when I take donors on a tour of the building, who are so impressed by the progress. My low was when we faced some significant challenges getting our site plan approved because of water management issues. At one point, I wasn’t sure the project would be able to move forward. But Temple Shalom and Federation leadership worked together to find workable solutions and we are now months away from moving into our new home.

Jane Schiff and Jeffrey Feld December, but what if we don’t move until January? Which book festival events will be held where? Channukah Menorah lighting will be held on Dec. 21 as we have secured that

date for Mercato but, if the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center is open and we have a certificate of occupancy (CO), we want to hold it there. So many options. Such an exciting time. But not the relaxing summer many of you will be having. Your Board of Directors is also working through the summer on an updated Strategic Plan for the next five years. We began our work in early April with a three-hour session facilitated by Sallie Williams, CEO of Williams Consulting Group. She will present her findings and suggested plan to the Board in July. This will be the first time that the Board is scheduling a July meeting. But we need to plan for our expanding space, programming and growth. New committees will be created — building and grounds, outreach, and programming, to name a few.

If you have an interest in joining one of these committees, please contact Jeffrey Feld. And, as always, summertime is when we plan for our Annual Campaign, programming, Sefer Todah, Connections magazine and all the other ongoing things you count on us to produce. We are very busy here at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples – and your support has caused this expansion. We can’t wait to welcome you back at the end of your wonderful summer vacations to your winter or full-time Jewish home in our new Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. Be safe and well this summer. Enjoy your time with friends and family. And know, in the back of your mind, that we are working on creating fabulous events and programming for your future.

MDF – Can you give us an update on where the project is at this point? MS – We hope to move into our new building in November or December this year. How hurricane season progresses and whether we can continue to avoid major supply chain issues will be the determining factors. MDF – In your opinion, how will this building be an asset to the Greater Naples community? MS – For the Jewish community, we will have helped meet the

growing programmatic and space needs of WCA; MCA; the Book Festival; BBYO and our campus partner, Temple Shalom, as well as all the other Jewish organizations in Naples. For the growing Greater Naples community, we can selectively provide space for events, and also be able to host educational sessions which foster mutual under-standing and cooperation well beyond the Jewish-Catholic dialogue we have now. I believe our new building will be one of the top 5 architectural marvels

in Greater Naples and a showcase for our community. MDF – Marc Saperstein has worked tirelessly, putting in countless hours as a lay leader on this project and going above and beyond for all of us. His leadership and determination are one of the reasons why our Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center has progressed so well. He is always available and willing to help whenever and wherever. Thank you, Todah Robah, just doesn’t seem to be enough.

THIS MONTH’S ADVERTISERS This publication is brought to you each month thanks to the support of our advertisers. Please be sure to use their products and services, and mention that you saw their ad in Federation Star. Anago Cleaning Systems..................6 Kaye Lifestyle Homes..........................5 Beth Tikvah....................................4 Kotler Law Firm, P.L. .........................8 Brittany Howard, Coldwell Banker .....12 MCA........................................8 Carlisle Naples, The.........................13 Moorings Park..............................11

Wishing You a Sweet & Happy New Year “As we dip our apples in honey, we pray for an additional measure of sweetness. May we continue to grow in our commitment to our faith, our people and community. May all Jews experience blessings in the year ahead, and may the world become a better place for all your children.” – Rabbis Bennet Miller & Erik Lankin Please come visit our

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Casual Connection..........................10 Naples Envelope & Printing Co.......25 Chabad of Naples..........................28 Naples Jewish Congregation.......21 Chellie Doepke, Premiere Plus Realty...22 Seascape at Naples.............................17 Deborah Zvibleman, John R. Wood....9 Senior Housing Solutions...............18 Fuller Funeral Home........................18 Tumbles......................................9 Ginsberg Eye...................................12 Truly Nolen...................................7 Hodges Funeral Home......................2 WCA.......................................19 & 23 James Knafo Architect & Builder.........22 Wynn’s Market................................25 Katz New York Deli...........................24


JEWISH FEDERATION

July/August 2022

Federation Star

3

One brick at a time Donors who have purchased brick pavers for the Niner Iser Jewish Cultural Center By Marcy Friedland, Capital Campaign & Planned Giving Director

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odah Rabah to the following donors who have purchased one or more brick pavers to grace the plaza area to the left of the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center entrance.

Interested in adding your name to the list in one of our upcoming issues? Contact me at mfriedland@jewish naples.org or 239-263-4205.

Brick Paver donors as of May 31, 2022: Hedy & Jack Abel Gail Abelman In Memory of Hope Abels (z”l) Sheryl & Mel Affrime Sheila & Howard Agranat Marlene & Nate Apkon Tracy & Michael Askotzky Jay & Debra Barnett Lea & Michael Bendes Carole Berkowitz Harriet & Louis Berneman Patti & Pete Bloom Ronnie Blumenthal Betsy Borden In Memory of Steve Brazina (z”l)* Sandy & Alan Burton Coalition for Quality Public Education Tracey & David Cohen Janet & Saul Cooperman Paula & Ron Creed Crowther Roofing & Sheet Metal of Florida, Inc. Barbara Shagan Dave Shellie Specter & Robert Davidson Deangelis Diamond Susan & Phil Dean Gayle & Marty Dorio Linda & Larry DuKatz Shelley & Steve Einhorn Alicia & Michael Feldman In Memory of David Fisher (z”l)* Jerry Flagel Nancy Flatau Jennifer & Marc Fleischer Jane & Lester Friedberg Nancy & Darryl Garfinkel Deb & Bert Geller Barbara & Gene Goldenziel Janice Goldman Joel Goldman Sandra & Alan Goldman Marsha & Michael Goldstein Helene & Alan Gordon Carole Greene Sherry & Howard Greenfield Lenore Greenstein Bobbi & Randy Heiligman Roz & Morris Herstein Carol & Burton Hirsch Susan & Michael Horowitz Linda & Larry Hyde In Memory of Richard Janger (z’l)* Liz & Alan Jaffe Arline Kaplan In Honor of Lisa & Dale Katz* Bobbie Kauffman In Memory of Mary Kauffman (z”l)* Gail& Vitaliy Kedrus In Honor of Deborah Kohler* Phyllis & Abe Koss Pam & Warren Krangel Elaine & Richard Landau Helaine & Marvin Lender Anna & Yale Levin Arlene Levin

Hilda & Martin Levine Stephanie Adler Calliott & Don London Dorothy Magen Ida & Jeff Margolis MCA Carol & Stuart Mest Gisela & Richard Miller Marvin Mirsky Modern Playwrights Marsha & Joel Moranz Laurie & Barry Nagler Helene Naimon Gail & Les Nizin Harvey Oriel Judi Palay Karen & Jerry Pam Susan & Joel Pittelman Susan & Jimmy Pittleman Iris & Steven Podolsky Beth-Ellen & Irv Povlow Judit & Richard Price Sandy Randall Estelle Rauch June Streisand & John Reiches Ilene Rich Mae Riefberg Dale & Steven Riemer Susan & Nathaniel Ritter Jennifer & Kenny Roller Judy & Sam Roth Luba & Alberto Rotsztain Betty & Jim Rubenstein Jess & Chris Rush Adrienne & Miles Russ Jacqueline Sallade Katie & Michael Sarnoff Eleanor & Neil Scheffler Linda & Shepard Scheinberg Jane Schiff Shelley & Mark Schloss Caroline & Bill Schulhof Jane & Paul Shaw Gay & David Silberg Cathy & Scott Silver Sisterhood of Temple Shalom Stacy Sokol Merrill & Andrew Solan Leslie & Mel Springman Sandi Stern Shira & Bryan Swartz Fahn & Denny Tishkoff Michelle Levine Troupp Linda & Jerry Wainick In Memory of Stephen G. (z”l)* Weiss Suellen & James Weiner Goldie & Kenneth Wetcher Karen Wilner Lauri & Steven Wishner Beth & Brian Wolff Deb & Frank Wyman Susan & Russ Yale Suzann & Steve Yussen Judy & Jeff Zwicker * Group gift

BRICK PAVER ORDER FORM Donor Information Name _____________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ City _____________________________ State ________ Zip Code _____________ Email ____________________________________________________________ Phone ____________________________________________________________ Donation Amount (S) ________________________________________________ Indicate how you want your engraved brick to read, using the grid below for the size brick you are purchasing. Each square is the space for one letter or number. 12” x 12” Engraved Brick – room for 8 lines of text with 20 characters per line ($1,800)

8” x 8” Engraved Brick - room for 6 lines of text with 20 characters per line ($720)

4” x 8” Engraved Brick - room for 3 lines of text with 20 characters per line ($360)

Make your check payable to JFGN and send it, with this completed form, to: JFGN, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Ste. 2201, Naples, FL 34109.


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Federation Star

Celebrating Jewish Life in Collier County, Israel and the World

Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

July/August 2022

Summer programming

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

2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 2201 Naples, Florida 34109-0613 Phone: 239.263.4205 Fax: 239.263.3813 www.jewishnaples.org Email: info@jewishnaples.org Officers

Board Chair: Jane Schiff Vice Chairs: Nat Ritter, Marc Saperstein, Beth Wolff Secretary: Rosalee Bogo Treasurer: Elliot Lerner Immediate Past Chair: Alvin Becker

Board of Directors

Frank Baum, Patti Boochever, Harvey Cohen, Marcia Cohodes, Amanda Dorio, Paula Filler, Cheryl Ginsburg, Larry Israelite, Tammy Katz, Merlin Lickhalter, Robin Mintz, William Petasnick, Joel Pittelman, Stuart Price, Michael Rubenstein, Michael Sobol, Steve Strome, Jay Weiss, Jeff Zalasky, Board Member Emeritus: Phyllis Seaman

Past Board Chairs

Gerald Flagel, Dr. William Ettinger, Ann Jacobson (z”l), Sheldon Starman, Bobbie Katz, Rosalee Bogo, Judge Norman Krivosha (z”l)

Synagogue Representatives

Stan Alliker, Cantor Donna Azu, Rabbi Ariel Boxman, Steve Chizzik, Rabbi Ammos Chorny, Rabbi Mendel Gordon, Rabbi Mendy Greenberg, Rabbi Mark Gross, Rabbi Howard Herman, Rabbi Adam Miller, Charles Flum, Rabbi James Perman, Dr. Arthur Seigel, Len Teitelbaum, Rabbi Fishel Zaklos

Staff

Jeffrey Feld: Federation CEO/President Reneé Bialek: Program Director Alicia Feldman: PJ Library Coordinator Marcy Friedland: Capital Campaign & Planned Giving Director Janine Hudak: Admin. Coordinator Teresa Zimmerman: Finance & Operations Manager

Federation is the central Jewish community-building organization for Greater Naples, providing a social service network that helps Jewish people locally, in Israel and around the world. As the central fundraising organization for Jewish communal life in our area, strength is drawn from organized committees of dedicated volunteers. Programs include: • Annual Campaign & Endowment Fund • Celebrate Israel • Educational & Cultural Programs • Israel Advocacy Committee • Israel Scouts • Jewish Book Festival • Jewish Community Relations Council • Jewish Young Professionals • Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance • Men’s Cultural Alliance • PJ Library • Publication of the Federation Star, Connections and Community Directory • Women’s Cultural Alliance • Women’s Philanthropy • Youth Activities Committee – sponsoring youth education and scholarships for Jewish Summer Camp and Israel Experience

A new group is starting!

Reneé Bialek

Published by

Program Director

If you can follow and participate in a conversation i n He b re w, t h i s group is for you! We are looking for those who speak in Hebrew and want to practice so that we do not forget the language. We will gather once a month with a theme to follow or just to catch up and converse while learning new words. This group is open to the entire community. Please contact me if you are interested.

M

ore programs and groups have been added to our summer lineup. In addition to mandala coloring, board games and potluck lunches, you now can enjoy a summer book club and a discussion on a Netflix series. Everyone is invited to attend these various programs.

Book club

JFGN book club has specific books that you read at your leisure and then come join us on Zoom to discuss. The July and August books are announced in Federation’s weekly Monday e-blast.

Netflix series discussion

Watch “The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem” on Netflix and come together on Zoom to discuss this series. Dates and times are announced in Federation’s weekly Monday e-blast.

Author book discussions

Author Jerry Greenfield will present his book, “He Lost it in the Catskills,” on Wednesday, July 20 at noon (ET) on Zoom. This is a free program for all. Joshua Jay, author of “How Magicians Think,” will present his book on

Mix and Mingle

Friday, July 22 at noon (ET) on Zoom. Cost per household is $25 for Joshua’s presentation, so please make sure to register for his magical book talk. Register at www.jewishnaples.org to receive the Zoom link two hours prior to the start of each program.

AN EGALITARIAN PROGRESSIVE CONGREGATION MEMBER OF THE UNITED SYNAGOGUE OF CONSERVATIVE JUDAISM

Mix and Mingle will come together at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples for more potluck lunches. This group also will go out to dinner and meet on Zoom. This group is for Jewish singles who are 55 and up.

Jewish Young Professionals

Jewish Young Professionals have been meeting! If you are in your 20s-30s and are not getting the specific JYP emails, please let me know so I can add you to the roster.

For young children

FREE FIRST YEAR DUES

for

ALL NEW MEMBERS!

JOIN US TODAY AT

239.434.1818

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PJ Library and Jewish Families with Young Children are invited to Tumbles Naples for activities and fun on Sundays, July 17 and August 14 at 3:30 p.m. Please make a reservation with Alicia at programs@jewishnaples.org. If you have an idea for a program or want to be a guest speaker or facilitator, please contact me, at rbialek@ jewishnaples.org. Please read our weekly Monday e-blast for any changes to these programs and, of course, for information about the additional programs being offered to the community. We have a variety of groups and committees at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, such as PJ Library, Jewish Families with Young Children, Cardozo Legal Society, Catholic-Jewish Dialogue, Israel Advocacy Committee and Jewish Community Relations Council. Please join the group and/or committee that best fits your needs. A taste of each one can be found throughout our website at www.jewishnaples.org.

Read the current and previous editions of the Federation Star online at www.jewishnaples.org


JEWISH FEDERATION

July/August 2022

Federation Star

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Take a trip to Israel with PJ Library By Alicia Feldman, PJ Library Coordinator

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he summer is upon us, school is out and long lazy days with rainy afternoons are here. Why not escape the Florida heat and plan to spend some time taking a family trip to Israel with PJ Library, right here in Naples? Join us at Tumbles Naples on July Written by Vivian 17 at 3:30 p.m. to Newman; Illustrated by Akemi Gutierrez begin your Israel in Naples journey with a celebration of Tu-B’av; the Israeli Day of Love and on Aug. 14 at 3:30 p.m. for an afternoon of Colors in Hebrew Scavenger Hunt. Written by Leslie We w i l l h a v e Kimmelman; snacks and fun in Illustrated by Talitha Shipman this wonderful airconditioned new space for play and learning! Until we get together, please check out these age-appropriate PJ Library books or consider tryWritten and ing out any of the Illustrated by engaging ideas Rachel Shalev

Israel Quiz listed below to UPCOMING EVENTS! bring Israel to the

1. Israel is a small country, about the size of the state of _____________

kiddos in your very ary living Januown 30 February _____________________________. 13 room: • Use the 2. The Dead Sea, in eastern Israel, is ______________________ feet book “Welcome ____________________ sea level, the lowest point on earth. to Israel” to talk about the size of Alicia Feldman 3. __________________________________________ were the first Israel (similar to New Jersey), the history of Israel and the h 20 April 10live in the land of Israel. Marc Jews to birth of Israel as a nation, the first Jews (Abraham and Sarah), the Star of David 4. Israel won its independence in May of _________________. and the Dead Sea (lowest point on Earth). • Make a detailed map of Israel and its 5. The capital of Israel is ______________________________. neighbors. (Love this one!) • Learn about Israel’s currency (and 26 flag has the __________________________________ in 15 for it). June May up a notebook sheet make 6. Israel’s • Make a dinner alayimof baked felafel its center. Yom Yerush sandwiches (see recipe at https://www. foodnetwork.com/recipes/baked-felafel7. The money in Israel is the ____________________, not the dollar. sandwiches-recipe-1938264) with a side of hummus forwill dipping. All events be at: “Can U Dig It” Playground • Download some Israeli music and at North Regional Park break out Collier the percussion instruments for 3pm - 4pm Fill in the above blanks with one of these words or numbers: a dance party, Israeli style. To register visit: • Take the quiz shared on this page to OF GREATER NAPLES facebook.com/PJLibraryNaplesFL Stars of David below see what you have learned about Israel. Check out the super cute PJ Library 1948 Jerusalem books to explore Israel with your littles Abraham and Sarah New Jersey at https://pjlibrary.org/beyond-books/ pjblog/april-2017/tour-israel-with-theseSheqel 1,300 picture-books.

Shabbat

Laila Tov

Purim

Pesach

Shavuot


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Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

July/August 2022

PJ Our Way A new, free PJ Library program By Alicia Feldman, PJ Library Coordinator

PJ Library

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ntroducing … PJ Our Way, the next chapter of PJ Library books for ages 9 to 12. This wonderful program is available free of charge throughout the United States and Canada to families raising Jewish children. Every month, kids can choose the books they want to receive. Kids can also become more engaged and submit reviews and videos about the books.

Join the Hebrew Colors Hunt! A Scavenger Hunt for Learning & Fun.

Tumbles Naples

Go to www.pjyourway.org/#signup to enroll the tween in your life today!

2462 Vanderbilt Beach Rd. Suite 530

July 17, 2022 Time: 3:30 PM

RSVP Alicia Feldman programs@jewishnaples.org facebook.com/PJLibraryNaplesFL

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July/August 2022

Federation Star

7

LAWN CARE: KEEP CONTROL OF FUNGUS AND OTHER THINGS THIS SUMMER by Joe Jayne, Truly Nolen

With summer now in full swing, this is the time of year we love to showcase our lawns here in Southwest Florida, as evidenced by our obsession with lawn care and maintenance and the ability to enjoy our patios during the summer. Not only do lawns turn an ordinary plot of dirt into a green paradise surrounded by ornamental trees and flowers that frame your home perfectly, they also provide a soft carpet for our feet. We love to gather in parks for picnics, sporting events and other leisure activities, but seldom do we think, “Good job, lawn, with that noise reduction and pollution benefit thing you do for us. Oh, and thanks for keeping that dirt in line.” Lawns and turf grass areas also: • Control soil erosion and protect the quality of groundwater • Help trap synthetic organic compounds and enhance bio-degradation of synthetic compounds • Absorb and remove carbon dioxide gases • Moderate temperatures by dissipating heat from urban areas • Provide high visibility from intruders, enhancing home security • Serve as firebreaks to reduce fire hazards

Visually, lawns promote the quality of our lives, lend a hand towards community pride and increase property values. But as much as we love our lawns and yards, summer also brings some tough opponents.

Plus, sand in Florida’s soil can deplete nutrients, due to poor water retention.

For example, did you know fungi is ever present in the soil as well as the plants in your lawn? In fact, it is an organism that takes advantage of stressed plants. Plants are stressed from improper mowing, improper irrigation, or insects, fungi will start destroying your lawn, cause diseases, and devastate certain plants and grasses.

Cut out the guesswork. Your local Truly Nolen representative can provide you with a Grass Facts Sheet for your particular type of turf grass with tips on maintenance and proper care. Then, we can do a comprehensive Lawn Analysis that allows us to identify current problems affecting the overall health and appearance of your lawn. We identify the zones of your lawn most susceptible to insect activity, weed intrusion and additional areas of concern.

Between the excess rains of the past few weeks and generally warm temperatures, the combination is a perfect one for fungi to thrive. In addition to fungi, your lawn during any given summer will face heat, humidity, weeds, salt intrusion, poor water retention, invading insects, and other pathogens just to name a few.

Special care is taken to audit your current maintenance approach and provide tips for maintenance based on the type of grass you have. Whether you take care of your lawn yourself, use our service or another company, we TRULY hope you stay safe, have a great summer, and enjoy your lawn!

Currently, a focus on eco-friendly lawn care, with Integrated Pest Management is ushering in a new dimension in lawn care that promotes lawn maintenance by skilled professional pest control companies. Florida’s year round tropical climate requires constant care to ensure nutritional balance, combat insects and fungi, and control weeds.

(Joe Jayne is the Manager for Truly Nolen in Naples. His service office can be reached at (239) 643-2555. Founded in 1938, Tucson-based Truly Nolen of America (www.trulynolen.com) is one of the largest family-owned pest control companies in the United States. To learn about our Lawn Care capabilities, please visit https://www.trulynolen.com/lawn-care/)

While the first step to a healthy lawn involves proper mowing, trimming and watering, knowing when and what type of insecticides to apply can be challenging, as over application can damage your lawn. Also, Florida soils require specific nutritional requirements that commercial fertilizers don’t satisfy.

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Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

July/August 2022

MEN’S CULTURAL ALLIANCE

www.MCANaples.org / 508.733.9427

MCA honors two members The MCA Season Never Ends! Join your MCA friends for these activities throughout the summer.

A

t the April MCA luncheon meeting, MCA presented the Dick Janger Founders Award to Glenn Perrin and Meir Kehila for their outstanding contributions to the organization. President Les Nizin honored the recipients

with certificates acknowledging the planting of trees in Israel in their honor. Editor’s note: Our apologies to MCA, Glenn Perrin and Meir Kehila for not getting these photos in the June issue, when the awards were first announced.

Bocce - Every Monday at 9:00 AM Walking Group - Every Tuesday at 8:30 AM Virtual Breakfast - Every Tuesday at 9:00 AM Bocce - Every Wednesday at 9:00 AM Retired Old Men Eating Out - Wednesday at Noon Breakfast - Every Thursday at 8:30 AM Poker - Every Thursday at 6:30 PM

Les Nizin presents Founders Award to Glenn Perrin

Bridge - Every Friday at 12:45 PM Israel Discussion Group Second Monday at 10:00 AM Travelogue Series Second Tuesday at 2:30 PM Book Discussion Group Second Thursday at 2:30 PM Current Issues Discussion Group Third Thursday at 1:00 PM Dine Arounds – Schedule TBD Pickleball - TBA, based on interest Kayak - TBA, based on interest

Les Nizin presents Founders Award to Meir Kehila

A. Stephen Kotler BOARD CERTIFIED SPECIALIST IN WILLS, TRUSTS AND ESTATES

Interested in learning more about (or joining) MCA? Go to: www.mcanaples.org or email: membership@mcanaples.org

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Kotler Law Firm P.L. (239) 325-2333

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JEWISH FEDERATION

Meet the new MCA President, Michael Sobol

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Federation Star

July/August 2022

DZ

You deserve the care of a Real Estate Specialist.

DEBORAH ZVIBLEMAN

By Jeff Margolis

REALTOR® | PA

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decade, more members are becoming ichael Sobol, one of the full-time residents, moving to areas north original members of MCA, and south of Naples. Sobol and the new has assumed the duties of the 12-member Board of Directors hope to organization’s president. Sobol leaves the post of program chair to take the add activities in those areas. Future Federation Star helm of the organization. articles will feature new While MCA is now entermembers of the MCA ing its 10th year, the past Board. Other stories will two years have been the most challenging, due to COVID. focus on the many volunteer community service activiAs program chair, Sobol organized the many diverse proties in which our members participate. grams for a membership that peaked at 750 prior to the MCA is always seekCOVID outbreak. One of his ing new members. Those interested should check the goals as incoming president is MCA website (MCAnaples. to rebuild the membership. Michael Sobol org) for more information. In addition to adding new members, Sobol hopes All MCA members are automatically members of Jewish to develop strategies to attract younger Federation of Greater Naples (JFGN). members. Already in the works is the If you are interested in becoming a newly formed Next Generation (Next Gen) group, which invites younger men member or wish to volunteer for one of our many activities, please contact to participate in events and activities with President Michael Sobol at President@ their peers as well as with veteran memMCAnaples.org. bers. MCA also hopes to develop joint programs with WCA. President Sobol wishes all members Our president noted that as MCA a safe and pleasant summer and looks membership has grown over the past forward to a great season ahead.

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Jewish 20

-40 year

The Jewish Young Professionals of Greater Naples invite you to come socialize! Please email or call Renee’ to be added to the roster. rbialek@jewishnaples.org 239-263-4205

Jewish Young Professionals By Maya Williams, JYP Coordinator

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he past months have seen exciting events for Jewish Young Professionals! Just after Passover ended, we gathered to celebrate with a themed Chocolate Seder and picnic. At this event, each item of the traditional Seder plate was represented with a chocolate item. We had chocolate eggs instead of hardboiled, bitter dark chocolate symbolizing the bitter herbs, and more. Together, we read through a special chocolate Seder Haggadah and, of course, we had four cups of chocolate milk!

In May, we got together for a Trivia Night at Riptide Brewing Company. We worked together as a team to answer the trivia questions, celebrated our wins and supported each other through our losses. A great time was had by all. We are looking forward to attending an Oneg and Shabbat service this summer at Temple Shalom and continuing to build community among young Jewish adults! Please contact me to get involved with JYP at mayajw3@gmail.com.

Maya, Sarah, Carly, Matt and Nicole (May 20, 2022)

olds!

Jewish Young Professionals

Activities include: • Happy Hour We wa • Game Night your s nt to hear • Movie Night ug and id gestions • Shabbat Services upcom eas for • Volunteering ing ev ents! • Holiday Parties • Zoom Meet & Greets • and more! OF GREATER NAPLES


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Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

July/August 2022

WOMEN’S CULTURAL ALLIANCE

www.wcanaples.org / 518.852.3440

The fun never stops with WCA! By Susan Pittelman, WCA Publicity Coordinator

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here are fewer cars on the streets and the restaurants are not nearly as crowded as they were two months ago, but there is still a lot of activity in Naples — especially for WCA members! Several years ago, WCA started offering year-round programming for the 40% of its members who live here full time. Although programming slowed down during COVID, WCA continues to keep everyone as busy as they want to be with both in-person and Zoom programs. For members who are game players, canasta, mah jongg and duplicate bridge will be meeting in person. The New Yorker 1 Group, Ladies Who Lunch, WCA North Ladies Who Brunch and Single Girlfriends will also meet in person, as will the Birding group. For our “snowbird” friends who return north for the summer, some WCA programs continue to meet on Zoom, so you can participate in those activities. Among them are Foodies, Spanish, Contemporary Fiction and the ever-popular TED Talks, which will meet twice in August (TED Talks dates will be announced in WCA’s weekly newsletter). Of course, just as during “season,” programs are open only to WCA members. Details for some programs are announced in our weekly newsletter, while information about upcoming events for our many interest groups are sent via email from that group’s liaison. To join an interest group, send an email to the liaison saying you want to join the group. Liaison names can be found on our website, wcanaples.org, under “Groups,” then “Group Descriptions” and “Liaisons.” WCA members want to continue the wonderful friendships they formed in Southwest Florida when they return north after “season.” In 2012, WCA created several Summer Branches in various areas throughout North America so that members could “take WCA home” with them. There are currently nine Summer Branches bringing together WCA members “up north.” They are linked by a geographical nexus, with the expectation that these women are available to participate in summer activities. But you must sign up with the liaison to receive notifications about events.

Join in the fun!

To see if your area has a branch and to sign up with the appropriate liaison, check the WCA website (wcanaples.org under “Groups,” then “Group Descriptions” and “Liaisons”). Deedee Remenick, the liaison for the Washington DC/Virginia/ Maryland Summer Branch, recently arranged for women in her branch to meet in Columbia, Maryland. The women enjoyed lunch together and discussed ideas for future outings. Our popular Speaker Series will be paused for the summer, but Speaker Coordinator Susan Koeppel has already planned a fabulous lineup for the fall! Phyllis Cramer, Ann Goldblatt, Branch Liaison Deedee Remenick and When you have a chance, mark the Mary O’Haver, members of the Washington DC/Virginia/Maryland dates of these upcoming WCA special Summer Branch, met for lunch at Standford Grille in Columbia, Maryland. events in your calendar: • Welcome Back Luncheon – Nov. 9, 2022 • Couples Canasta Night (WCA and MCA) – Jan. 19, 2023 • Annual Mahm jongg Day – Jan. 24, 2023 • Annual Canasta Day – March 13, 2023 If you haven’t renewed your WCA membership, now is the time to do so. Memberships expire Wednesday, Aug. 31. BeginBarbara Dave, Barbara Kahn, Natalie Reecie Cizon, Rooter Davis, Sydell ning Sept. 1, members who Berman and Luba Rotsztain play mah jongg Zimmerman and Barbara Reed have not paid their dues at the weekly WCA game at Federation. enjoying WCA North mah jongg. for 2022-23 will not receive WCA notifications, including the weekly newsletter. If you are not already a member of WCA, join now so that you can participate in all the wonderful ongoing programs as well as the new events being planned. It’s easy to join WCA members viewed films by – just go to wca Judy Copeland (left) and Gayle Dorio naples.org. (center) at a Speakers Series program WCA members had a beautiful (and delicious!) coordinated by Speaker Coordinator Have a wontea at Brambles English Tea Room. Susan Koeppel (right). derful summer!

Have you RENEWED your WCA MEMBERSHIP? Renew by September 1 to continue to participate in activities and receive the WCA newsletter.

WHAT? You’re not a member yet? To

JOIN or RENEW go to

WCANAPLES.ORG and click on MEMBERSHIP.

(Pay by credit card or check.) Membership is through Aug. 2023. QUESTIONS? Contact Membership Chair Harriett Kleinman at hmkleinman@gmail.com


July/August 2022

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Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

July/August 2022

We could not have done it without you Paula Filler Annual Community Campaign Chair

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contact brittany to experience extraordinary service and have your dreams brought home. 239-266-8034

BrittanyRoseSells @ gmail.com coldwell banker 550 fifth avenue south, naples

his is a community of generous donors and dedicated leadership. When we began planning for Campaign 2022: Here for Good a little more than a year ago, our campaign goal was set very high. This is as it should be. With ever-growing need here in our community and throughout the Jewish world, we need to raise more so we can do greater good in the world. This is what defines us as Jews and as a community. Campaign 2022 officially closed June 30, 2022, and I am delighted to report that it was another record-setting year. As of June 1, 2022, $1,585,821 was promised by 1,107 donors. This is an increase of almost $80,000 over last year. Incredible! And we could not have done it without you. Every single donor to campaign deserves the lion’s share of thanks. It is the generosity of every donor, of every gift, that propelled the campaign forward. Long-time donors, new and returning donors, donors who give consistently and willingly, donors at every gift level who increased their gifts if they could, redefined what it means to be Here for Good. Thank you, all! There are a lot of savvy Jews in Greater Naples. They know how important giving is, how its impact is felt throughout our community and the Jewish world. They also know campaign is a lot of work and that, done right, the message speaks to each of us. Our donors also want their gifts acknowledged personally and promptly. They want and deserve to be appreciated.

For this to happen, it takes more than great professionals. It also takes a great team of volunteers. For this, we must thank the members of our campaign cabinet for their vision, defining the message, communicating with donors about their giving and thanking them for it. For some on cabinet, this meant meeting with our donors to secure a campaign gift. For others, it meant sending a personal note to donors. And, for others still, it meant calling donors to simply say “Thank you!” Thanks to each of the volunteers who served on campaign cabinet this year: Frank Baum, Alvin Becker, Rosalee Bogo, David Citrin, Harvey Cohen, Karen Deutsch, Amanda Dorio, Dr. Judith Finer-Freedman, Cheryl Ginsburg, Burton Hirsch, Tammy Katz, Merlin Lickhalter, Robin Mintz, Joel Pittelman, Susan Pittelman, Dr. Nat Ritter, Michael Rubenstein, Marc Saperstein, Jamie Satz, Jane Schiff, Betty Schwartz, Michael Sobol, Michael Suffian, Jay Weiss, Beth Wolff and Jeff Zalasky. Thanks to our professional campaign leadership for their creativity, dedication and talent: Jeffrey Feld (President & CEO); Marcy Friedland (Capital Campaign & Planned Giving Director); and Kirk Wisemayer (Annual Campaign Director). A small campaign staff, with mighty outcomes. Cabinet or staff, we could not have done it without you. Thank you! In truth, being here for good is a partnership. It is a partnership between donors, volunteers and staff. It is a partnership between our community and Jewish communities across North America that form part of a collective system of Jewish Federation donors and volunteer leadership that make the impossible possible year after year. Thank you. We could not have done it without you.

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COMMUNITY FOCUS

July/August 2022

Federation Star

13

HOLOCAUST MUSEUM & JANET G. AND HARVEY D. COHEN EDUCATION CENTER www.HMCEC.org / 239.263.9200

Summer at the Museum Susan Suarez President & CEO CREDIT: DELL RIVER IMAGERY

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he Holocaust Museum & Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen Education Center recently elected three new members to its 2022-2023 Board of Directors: Alan Englander, Dottie McGovern and Jay Sterns. They will join the following directors who are continuing their terms: Stuart Price, chairman; Frederic Roth, vice chair; Hymie Akst, treasurer; Richard Yovanovich, secretary; Stephen Strome, immediate past chairman; Herb Berkeley, past chairman; and directors Larry Baer, Nancy Barbounis, Janet G. Cohen, Michael Feldman, Maureen Lerner, Lorelei Meeker, Stuart Mest, Robert Nossen and Ashley Solomon. We thank departing 2021-2022 directors Rosalee Bogo and Gary Lencher for their many years of service and support of our mission.

Capital campaign and museum expansion plans

I am pleased to announce the start of our second capital campaign, “Growing for the Future – 20 Years of Teaching Mutual Respect.” This effort will build on

our successful first campaign, which, through the generous lead gift of Janet G. Cohen and other wonderful donors, enabled us to move to our present, awardwinning location. The current campaign will fund several new goals, primarily the creation of a new “North Wing” of the Museum by joining together two additional suites we now own. The enlarged footprint, with new exhibit and classroom/meeting spaces, will allow us to better serve visitors, local groups and the students and teachers who participate in our Holocaust education programs. I invite you to join us as we “grow for the future.” Naming opportunities are now available for the North Wing (lead gift), Auschwitz Gallery, exhibit spaces, displays and more. Please contact me for more information on this exciting next phase — Susan@HMCEC.org or 239-263-9200, ext. 203.

Summer camp group

Museum visits, field trips and private group tours up

We’ve seen a noticeable increase in Museum visitors, student field trips and private group tour numbers as COVID19 restrictions lifted. Summer camp programs, such as New Horizons, are also returning to schedule field trips to the Museum. Private group tour continued on page 14

Private tour

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Federation Star

TEMPLE SHALOM

www.naplestemple.org / 239.455.3030

By Jeanette Fischer, Temple Shalom Director of Communications

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Shabbat evening summer service hours

July 8 through Aug. 12, Temple Shalom will begin Friday evening services at 6 p.m. Join us before the service at 5:30 p.m. for the “Pre-neg” – light refreshments and schmoozing. Regular Friday evening service hours resume on Aug. 19.

Shabbat on the beach

Friday, July 1 at 7 p.m. Join us at Lowdermilk Park for the very popular beach Shabbat Friday evening service. We meet on the beach at the north end of the park. Bring a beach chair.

Torah Talk

Join this lay-led discussion of the week’s

Torah portion via Zoom every Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m. Please contact the Temple Shalom office, info@naples temple.org, for the Zoom link.

Jewish yoga

Yoga teacher Missy Balsam guides you through an all-levels gentle yoga stretch session via Zoom on Mondays at 10:30 a.m. Interwoven with Jewish spiritual teachings, the class is designed to relieve stress and calm the mind. This class will be practiced lying down and seated on the floor. It is open to all, no experience necessary. The fee for a seven-week session is $54. Join anytime! If you miss a class, a recording can be sent to you. Call the Temple Shalom office at 239455-3030 to register and receive the Zoom information.

Tributes To:

Roberto & Laurie Bollt In memory of Maria Bollt

To:

From: Phyllis Seaman

Claudia & Robert Mills In memory of Edith Cowen

From: Paula & Ronald Filler To:

Stanley Deutsch & Family In memory of Barbara Joan Schuster

From: Rosalee & Jerry Bogo Paula & Ronald Filler Jane Schiff Nancy & Jack Wiadro

To:

Hal Fogelson, MD In memory of Nancy Fogelson

To:

A call for 2Gs by GenShoah SWFL By Shelley Lieb

Temple Shalom events for all he following Temple Shalom events are open to everyone.

COMMUNITY FOCUS

July/August 2022

Hedy Pearlman In honor of your Special Birthday

From: Harriet Israel

Tributes require a minimum donation of $18.

From: The Sisterhood of the Naples Jewish Congregation

To place a Tribute in the Federation Star in honor or memory of someone, please contact Janine Hudak at the Federation office at 239-263-4205 or jhudak@jewishnaples.org. Tributes require a minimum donation of $18. A note card acknowledging your gift will be sent to the person or loved one you designate. Tributes help further the work of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

Stay connected. Visit www.jewishnaples.org

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outhwest Florida is full of surprises. GenShoah SWFL has four goals: Even after 50+ years of living in • Promotion of Holocaust education this area, I encounter people, busiand human rights nesses, artists, plants and animals that are • Preservation of the history and amazing. That there is a population here memories of the Holocaust that can sustain a Holocaust museum • Connection of 2nd and 3rd generastill amazes me. And, each year, since the tions with one another inception of GenShoah SWFL by Sandy • Support of the Holocaust Museum Levine in 2008, I have met & Cohen Education Center others whose parents survived Some projects and ideas the Holocaust. We are known are already active and unfoldas second generation, 2Gs, or ing. Fifteen written narratives Generations of the Shoah. of the Holocaust experience Over the years, there have of the parents of our 2Gs been various programs, social are posted on the museum events, community partnerwebsite, www.HMCEC.org. ships and group support And there is plenty of room events with the guidance for more. of the Holocaust Museum Contact me at liebro@ and many active individuals. gmail.com for more Sandy Levine With the stepping back of Ida information and encourMargolis from the leadership role, it is agement. David Nelson is helping time to reenergize, reorganize and reform 2Gs reach out to local students and our local GenShoah group. I am working museum visitors. There are a few, but with Margolis as well as Susan Suarez more are needed as our local survivors and David Nelson from the Holocaust grow older. You can contact him at Museum & Cohen Education Center to david@hmcec.org. establish a GenShoah coordinating comI wouldn’t be surprised if there mittee for that purpose. A call has been are more 2Gs out and about in Southsent out to everyone on our GenShoah west Florida who might want to get SWFL mailing list. That door remains connected. Let us know. Time to suropen at genshoahswfl@hmcec.org. prise yourself.

summer at the museum...continued from page 13 bookings have also increased as summer Summer teacher vacations begin. workshop Are you looking for an interesting The Museum will sponsor a one-day activity for your family, friends or organiSummer Holocaust Education Teacher zation this summer? Why not book your Workshop in August before school own private group tour of the Museum? starts. The theme will be “Holocaust These docent-led tours are held in the 1942 – From Bad to Worse.” All active mornings when the Museum is closed middle- and high-school grade educato the public, allowing you plenty of tors are invited. There is no charge time to ask questions and explore the for the workshop and complimentary exhibits. We can customize the tour to light breakfast and lunch will be fit your schedule and even provide a light provided. Teachers will also be probreakfast if you wish. Please contact Eduvided with Holocaust education classcation Specialist Dave Nelson for more room resources for use during the next information and to schedule a private school year. group tour — David@HMCEC.org or The workshop is funded courtesy 239-263-9200, ext. 205 of a generous grant from the Merrill Kuller Educator Series. For more inforNew special exhibit mation and to register, please contact this summer Education Specialist David Nelson at Don’t miss the new special exhibit in the David@HMCEC.org or call 239-263Estelle and Stuart Price Gallery — “Art 9200, ext. 205. If you know any teachers After the Holocaust.” who might be interested, please feel free The exhibit, on display through Aug. to share this information. 31, presents a cross-section of Holocaustthemed artwork held in our perma“Save the date” nent collection. A variety of media are The popular “Movies That Matter” series shown, including: will return this October! Films will be • Black-and-white photographic shown on three consecutive Wednesdays: images of contemporary Auschwitz by Oct. 19 (via Zoom), Oct. 26 (in person at Arnold M. Hodes Paragon Theaters) and Nov. 2 (in person • Pencil drawings of pre-Holoat Paragon Theaters.) Check our website caust life in Eastern Europe by Sander in August for additional information on Gordon Bergman the films and discussion panel details. • Oil paintings created by Bill Wishing you and your families a Farnsworth for the children’s books safe and happy July 4th holiday. I look “Irena Sendler and the Children of the forward to seeing you at the Museum Warsaw Ghetto” this summer! • Woodcut print portrait of Elie Wiesel by Sr. Mary Charles McGough


July/August 2022

Federation Star

15

Order Your High Holiday Greetings by Aug. 2! This High Holiday season, say “L’Shana Tova” to your friends and family!

Sign up now for as little as $18 per High Holiday greeting, which will be published in the September issue of the Federation Star. It’s easy! Just select your ad(s), then complete and return the form below! CHOOSE FROM THESE SAMPLE GREETINGS:

Your Name Here

Your Name Here

Your Name Here

#1: $18

#2: $18

Your Name Here

#3: $18

#4: $18

Your Name Here Your Name Here

#5: $36

#6: $54

Place your High Holiday Greeting order using a credit card by calling Janine Hudak, 239-263-4205 OR Send the completed form below in with your payment

ORDER FORM I want to place the following High Holiday greeting(s) in the September 2022 Federation Star.

AUGUST 2 DEADLINE

PRINT your family name(s) on the lines below, in the exact order you would like them to appear: _____________________________________________________________________________________ Total greetings: $_______

 Enclosed is my check made payable to Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.  Please charge my:  MasterCard  Visa  American Express Account #____________________________________ Exp. Date___________ cvv#_________ Name on card_____________________________________ Zip Code____________________ Mail to: Jewish Federation of Greater Naples 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 2201, Naples, FL 34109 FORM & PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED BY TUESDAY, AUGUST 2

CHECK YOUR AD CHOICE(S) BELOW: ____ #1 ($18)

____ #4 ($18)

____ #2 ($18)

____ #5 ($36)

____ #3 ($18)

____ #6 ($54)


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Federation Star

COMMUNITY FOCUS

July/August 2022

There are angels amongst us By Monica Goodwin

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n May 10, I went to the Yom Hashoah service at Temple Shalom with 96-year-old Holocaust survivor, Lily Lesley, a phenomenon in her own right. Sitting in the front row, I observed a woman who was gazing intently at the Bima. She exuded a wonderful aura. When I walked over to Ida Margolis, she asked me if I knew her, and I said “No.” “Well, you really should meet her,” Margolis replied. So, being my unbashful self, I went over and introduced myself. Her name, I discovered, was Birte Hogan. She had the brightest blue eyes and an illuminating smile. I could tell from her funky shoes and jean jacket that this woman had spunk and I was soon to learn that was true. Hogan told me how she had grown up in Copenhagen and how her family had saved Jews. Of course, my interest was piqued, and I asked if I could interview her for the Oral/Visual project of the Holocaust Museum. She did not hesitate to give me her phone number. I had read many stories about the rescue of Denmark Jews, but it was interesting to hear one firsthand. Hogan’s mother (Lydia Alstrup Nielsen) was one of two female dentists at the time and her father (Carl Alex Harald Mueller) was a mechanic who later became head of the Austin Company. The family lived in an 11-room house in the Carlsberg district. The three

children were brought up strictly in a protestant/Lutheran home but were not very observant. Hogan was 6 years old when Germany invaded Denmark on April 9, 1940. King Christian told his troops not to resist as he was afraid of a blood bath. The Nazis allowed the Danes to have Danish domestic rule until 1943. They needed the Danes to supply the army with food. But things changed in 1943. When the Nazis imposed laws and regulations on the Jews, King Christian was known to ride into town wearing a yellow star to show support of his countrymen. In 1943, he was put under house arrest. The Danes heard that there was a plan to round up the Jews on Rosh Hashanah. Within 72 hours, all the Jews except 450 were hidden with plans to rescue them. Ninety percent of Denmark’s Jews were saved. Of the 8,000 Jews in Copenhagen, 7,500 were rescued. The other 500 were sent to Thereseinstadt, where 51 perished. Most returned to Copenhagen after the war. Two of Hogan’s uncles, who were in the Danish Police, were arrested and sent to Buchenwald. Only one survived. Hogan tells about waking up one night and going into their dining and living room where she saw a sea of people lying, packed ‘like sardines.’ She could not understand it. Afraid the children might speak, her father made up a story. Later, she learned they were Jews whom

(owners of the Bing and Grondahl porcelain factory), only to find it empty. It was then that her father explained what it was to be Jewish, and that the family was hiding at a doctor’s house across the street. In 1945, Hogan’s school was bombed. The target was to have been the Gestapo headquarters. Luckily, she was home with the measles. In that bombing, 86 children and 19 adults were killed. A film depicting this event, titled “Bombardment,” was recently made. After the war, Hogan was chosen alongside Greta Andersen as one of Denmark’s two Olympic swimmers. Instead of competing, she chose to go to Paris as a nanny to Sonja and William Hudson, the vice president of UNESCO. She recounts being knocked down by a white limousine and being rescued by the driver, none other than Clark Gable. She also met President Roosevelt while walking in a park in Versailles. Later, she came to America as a nanny, where she met her husband. She was married in Copenhagen and has five children. She now resides amongst us in Naples. Still swimming every day, she has a wonderful outlook on life. It was my honor and privilege to have met her. “Make the most of every day. Go after your dreams. Be kind,” she advised, and that is what she does alongside helping others!

Birte Alstrup Hogan with interviewer Monica Goodwin her parents were helping to escape. Even though the family’s food was rationed, her father bought food on the black market and ensured his Jewish brethren were fed. Her parents led them out through the basement, which was kept locked from the children as people were hidden there as well. Her parents would have been killed for defying the Nazis. When I asked Hogan if she knew Jews in her neighborhood, she said “We were all Danes.” They were taught to treat all people with respect. How refreshing to hear during these times of antisemitism. A friend was simply a friend. On two occasions, Hogan went to her friend, Margaret Simonsen’s, house

THANK YOU! We couldn’t have done it without you

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Jewish Federation

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JEWISH INTEREST

July/August 2022

Federation Star

17

King soars, Jerry and Marge win, super pets and more Stars of David By Nate Bloom, Stars of David Contributing Columnist

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ditor’s Note: Persons in bold are deemed by Nate Bloom to be Jewish for the purpose of this column. Persons identified as Jewish have at least one Jewish parent and were not raised in, or identify with, a faith other than Judaism. Converts to Judaism, of course, are also identified as Jewish. Joey King, 22, has made the difficult transition from a star child actor to a successful young adult actor. This was obvious when she was Emmy-nominated (2019) as best actress in a limited series (“The Act” on Hulu). King has the title role in “Princess,” a comedy fantasy action film that will start streaming on Hulu on July 1. Here’s the capsule plot: When a strongwilled princess refuses to wed a cruel sociopath, she’s kidnapped and locked in a remote castle tower. With her vindictive suitor intent on taking her father’s throne, the princess must protect her family and save her kingdom. King co-stars in “Bullet Train,” a thriller that opens in theaters on Aug. 5. Capsule plot: Trained killer Ladybug (Brad Pitt) wants to give up the life but is pulled back in by his handler to collect a briefcase on a Japanese bullet train. Once onboard, he and the other competing assassins discover that their objectives are all

connected. (King plays Prince, a trained British assassin.) Last month, it was announced that King would star in “We Are the Lucky Ones,” a limited Hulu series. It is based on a bestselling book by Georgia Hunter, 35. She traced how some members of her Polish Jewish family successfully fled from the Nazis. “Jerry and Marge Go Large,” an original Paramount+ film, began streaming on June 17. It is based on the true story of Jerry Selbee (Bryan Cranston) and his wife, Marge (Annette Bening). The couple was the subject of many articles and a “60 Minutes” story. The Selbees made a modest living from their Michigan convenience store. Then Jerry uncovered a mathematical quirk in a new Michigan lottery game. Anyone (legally) could earn “net” winnings if they bought enough tickets. He enlisted friends in a “betting pool” and they made millions. David Frankel, 62, directed. Frankel has helmed some really big hit films, including “The Devil Wears Prada” and “Marley and Me.” “Black Bird” is a six-episode series that begins streaming on Apple+ on July 6. It’s based on two true-crime books jointly written by James Keene and Hillel Levin. Keene, the son of a

decorated police officer, got into dealing drugs and was sent to jail for 10 years with no chance of parole. Then, he got an offer: if he could get another inmate, a suspected serial killer, to talk about his crimes, Keene could go free early. It was a very dangerous assignment. I decided to write about this film when I saw that Ray Liotta, who died recently, has a co-starring role as an “old con.” This is one of his last filmed roles. Of course, his most famous role was as a Mafia associate in “Good Fellas.” After his death, I realized he had a “sort-of ” connection to a really horrific crime. This has not really been reported. Liotta’s fiancée, Jacy (Woodman) Nitollo, 47, is the daughter of Stewart Woodman, who died in prison in 2014. Stewart and his brother, Neil (now serving a life sentence), were convicted of hiring two men to kill the Woodman brothers’ parents in 1985. The murders were all about money. The press labeled the killings the “Yom Kippur murders.” The brothers h a d t h e i r p a re n t s m u rd e re d o n Yom Kippur because the brothers knew exactly where their parents would be then. (Oy!) Opening in theaters on July 15 are “The Wrong Place” and “Mrs. Harris

Goes to Paris.” The first film stars Bruce Willis in one of his last roles. As you probably read, Willis retired from acting last March due to aphasia, which effects his ability to speak and understand language. Willis plays a former small town police chief who a drug dealer wants to kill to prevent him from testifying against the dealer. Michael Sirow, 40, an actor with a long list of smallish credits, has third billing in this film as “Jake,” but advance credits don’t make his role clear. “Mrs. Harris” is about a widowed cleaning lady in 1950s London who decides she must have an expensive Dior dress. British Jewish actor Jason Isaacs, 58, co-stars. Opening in theaters on July 29 is “The League of Super Pets,” an animated film. Basic plot: the Justice League is captured by Lex Luthor (voiced by Marc Maron, 58). After this happens, Krypto, Superman’s dog, forms a team of five shelter pets who have been given superpowers. Two members of the team are voiced by Jewish actors. Vanessa Bayer, 40, voices a pig named PB, who can grow really huge. Natasha Lyonne, 43, voices Merton, a turtle who can go incredibly fast.

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Federation Star

JEWISH INTEREST

July/August 2022

Kvetching – Is there an upside to voicing our complaints? Aging Jewishly — What our traditions tell us about growing old By Rabbi Barbara Aiello

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implies complaining on stee’s at it again,” roids and many share Harry’s whispered Harry opinion of Bernie. Kvetching as he grabbed can be hard to take. his friend’s shoulder in an attempt to steer him away Maybe so but, according to Jules Kourelakos, jourfrom Bernie, a colleague nalist for Duke University’s who was “holding court” Chronicle (11/29/21), there in front of the shul. Harry’s is an often-forgotten upside friend caught on immediately. “Thanks for the tip. to the bad rap kvetching has endured. In a recent article, Let’s sneak in the side door. That way, we don’t have to lis“The Lost Art of Kvetching,” Rabbi Barbara Kourelakos notes that comten to Bernie complain. He’s Aiello a great guy but sometimes the plaining can make our lives “kvetching gets to me.” more bearable in several important ways: kvetching builds self-awareness, kvetchLinguists tell us that the word “keving is cathartic and kvetching improves tch,” derives from the Yiddish word “kvetcommunal relationships. shn,” which literally means “to squeeze” or to “press,” and is related to the German Really? Kourelakos, whose article is informed by his own Jewish upbringing, word “quetsche,” which implies urgency reminds us that when we acknowledge and insistence. For most of us, kvetching

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that we have time to spend complaining valves.” Or, as New York Times critic about the little things, it is our kvetching William Grimes puts it, “Judaism is that offers us a self-aware reminder that defined by exile, and exile without com“our lives are actually pretty decent in the plaint is tourism.” grand scheme of things.” Rabbi Avtzon notes that our kvetching It is cathartic, says Kourelakos, because in the desert was a kind of “emotional kvetching allows us to take our daily troubypass surgery” that allowed former slaves bles and “expel them from our minds,” to feel human once again. often breaking the cycle of festered resentIn modern life, Harry and his friend, ment. Think “journaling,” which often Bernie, the kvetcher, demonstrate our qualifies as kvetching on paper. proclivity toward complaining, but it T h e n t h e r e ’s still begs the queskvetching as a relation, why do we Jews tionship builder, so much? Kvetching is cathartic, says kvetch often creating a comRabbi Levi Avtzon Kourelakos, because it munal response — offers one answer one person gripes allows us to take our daily when he reminds and the other offers us that, historically troubles and “expel them speaking, “Life for reassurance; “Things aren’t so bad….” Jews has been so from our minds.” Kourelakos puts it difficult and overwell when he writes, whelming, and often “Then the roles reverse, the reassurer we couldn’t do anything concrete about becoming the kvetcher, confident they our troubles. Yet we made sure to keep our will be given the same empathetic treathearts open, to not fall into the abyss of ment. Through this intricate dance, a depression or allow our hearts to turn to bond of shared understanding and loyalty stone. We kvetched to keep our emotions is formed.” flowing. Kvetching has been our national Some rabbis, like Chabad.org’s Levi safety net against emotional death.” Avtzon (5/27/22), agree and base the Wholesale kvetching, indeed, has its defense of kvetching on Torah itself. Avtdownside and sages agree that it is hardly zon emphasizes, “If you think you have a mitzvah to constantly kvetch; however, heard it all, check out the Torah portions for a significant number of our rabbinic of Behaalotecha, Shelach, Korach and sages, the benefits of carefully articulated Chukat. First, the Israelites bemoan their complaints can’t be denied. After all, it’s lengthy travels in the desert. Then there’s the “squeaky wheel that gets the grease.” a sob story about the manna.” Next, is And that squeak? More often than not, it the ear-beating brought by the spies’ false comes from a kvetcher. report followed by the Kvetcher in Chief, For 10 years, Rabbi Barbara Aiello Korach, who organizes fellow kvetchers to served the Aviva Campus for Senior rebel. It seems like it never stops. Life (Sarasota, FL) as resident rabbi. So, what is Torah’s answer to unrelentHer most popular columns are now ing kvetching? Is there an upside? Rabbi published in her new book, “Aging Avtzon believes there is. “Kvetching is Jewishly,” available on Amazon books. one step up from slavery. A slave cannot Rabbi Barbara now lives and works in kvetch because of fear of the whip. More Italy, where she is rabbi of Italy’s first importantly, the slave mentality breeds Reconstructionist synagogue. Contact her at apathy and a clogging of the emotional Rabbi@RabbiBarbara.com.

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Federation Star

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What kind of Jew am I? Kreiss’s Kvetching Korner By Joel Kreiss

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ecause of the pandemic, I have or Lundys seafood in Sheepshead Bay. become involved in three Torah Neither of these places had the “O-U” study groups in three separate designation. Based on this fact, and the cities. It has been a wonderful experiaforementioned, we were seven different ence, interacting with Jews from different kinds of Jews, each with their own conbackgrounds and experiences, discussing cept of kosher. My family was four and my similar and conflicting views on a word aunt had a daughter, so they were three. or passage. And then there was a friend whose All these Jews with all disparate backfamily was so frum that they not only grounds made me wonder, what kind of had the shabbat gentile who turned on Jew am I? the lights, but on Friday, before ShabI got in touch with just how many bat, also tore and folded the day’s supply interpretations there are of “being Jewish.” of toilet paper lest they had to possibly For instance, the Moment magazine I’ve commit a violation of ripping or working subscribed to for eons has a column called or whatever on the sabbath. “Ask the Rabbis.” A question is posed, So, who is right and who is not? and rabbis of the various movements give My answer is all are right and, yet, answers based upon their understanding it just seems to this writer that we Jews of Judaism. When I first started reading inflict some kind of intimidation on Moment, there were four or each other. There appears five listings. The latest edito be a process of judging, tion has 10 listings! And, of not that you are Jewish, but course, not every member how Jewish. fully agrees with the other. Is there some magic numThere is an old joke — ber one has to achieve to be how many shuls do you need Jewish or at least be considfor two Jews? The answer is ered a “good Jew?” Is pride of three! Each one the other one’s Judaism and good deeds wouldn’t go to and the third sufficient to erase the “sin” of they both can agree upon. eating traif? Are four kitchens Based on that, I figure there with their attending impleJoel Kreiss are about 15 million Jewish ments the only way to keep movements, each one just slightly differkosher, or is keeping kosher a requisite ent from the other and all correct — and for being Jewish? oh, one huge one for all to attend, called I recently visited the Weitzman outside under the stars! National Museum of American Jewish An example from my own life is the History in Philadelphia, and I highly tradition of keeping kosher. My mother recommend this beautifully presented kept kosher and so did her sister. I called history of our arrival to this “Promised my mother’s kosher, “farkockter” kosher. Land.” A statement caught my eye that I We had kosher meat and didn’t mix think encapsulates my feeble attempt to milchik (milchedikg) with flayshig (flayexpress my thoughts. It is basically that shedig). Our small glass plates and small we Jews all worship, recognize or accept utensils were for the milk meal, and the the concept of the one God, or none, larger porcelain plates and large utensils and have embarked on our own journey were for meat. As an aside, there is a small, towards fulfilling that goal. obscure passage in the Jerusalem Talmud, What a mitzvah it would be if all of written in some foreign manner that us could use our energy in helping others only my mother understood, stating that reach their particular goal. bacon can be considered kosher if cooked And yet, that is not what makes a Jew. on a fire at least four feet below ground. For me, the essence is captured in the We just happened to have an old stove writings of two prophets, Amos 5:21-24 in the basement that fit that description. and Micah 6:6-8, with Micah writing the My mother’s sister, my Aunt Gert, who most beautiful passage of all. Study with lived around the corner, also kept kosher. others, freely exchange the thoughts these She was so kosher that she had two soaps, passages evoke, find your favorite and two towels, a dish rack in the sink to keep “teach them diligently to your children, the milchig dishes from touching the and talk of them when you sit in your surface where the flayshig dishes touched, house, when you walk by the way, when or vice versa. She and her husband, my you lie down and when you rise up…” Uncle Barney, would never eat in our Joel Kreiss is a retired dentist from New home because it was not kosher enough! Jersey, who moved to Venice, Florida in In Brooklyn, where I grew up, Sunday Nov. 1997. He always loved to write but was usually the “eating-out-day” and two in retirement discovered poetry and, just of our favorite places to go with Aunt recently, painting. “We are more than what Gert and Uncle Barney was Joy Fong, we once were, and in retirement we have a the Chinese joint around the corner, chance to find out what…”

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Federation Star

Boston family makes history as four sisters serve together as Lone Soldiers in IDF Fourth and youngest daughter enlists on heels of Israel’s 74th Independence Day, joining nearly 50 Massachusetts Lone Soldiers

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ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

July/August 2022

el Aviv (May 11, 2022) – A since my eldest enlisted, our family has special Boston family has made experienced an abundance of care and history, as its fourth and youngguidance from organizations like FIDF, est daughter made the brave and noble NBN and Garin Tzabar.” She went on decision to head to Israel where she is to say, “In my professional career, I have now serving as a Lone Soldier in the Israel the distinct privilege of assisting other Defense Forces (IDF), alongside her three families of Lone Soldiers, and I’m humolder sisters. According to public records, bled by the profound support of FIDF this is the first time ever that a family leadership and my colleagues.” from the U.S. has four daughters servNoya Govrin, director of the FIDF ing simultaneously. – Nefesh B’Nefesh – Lone Soldiers ProJust a few days after Israel celebrated gram, said, “These women are without its 74th year of independence, Y (18.5), enlisted to serve, with the assistance of the Friends of the IDF (FIDF) – Nefesh B’Nefesh Lone Soldier Program. Y joins the 45+ Massachusetts-based Lone Soldiers currently defending the State of Israel. Y ’s s i s t e r s , (L-R, face blurred for anonymity): Lieutenant O, Captain A (24.5), Private A, Captain A, Private Y. Photo credit: Yossi Zwecker. Lieutenant O (23) and Private A (20), each serve in a doubt the true embodiment of love prestigious positions in the IDF. Captain for our homeland, and they are a source (Res.) A, the eldest of the four sisters, of inspiration and Zionism in its purest is an active reservist in an elite Navy form. We are pleased that the number of unit. Lieutenant O, the second-born, young people from North America and completed a pilot’s course and currently around the world who want to make serves as a pilot in the 120th squadron Aliyah and volunteer for the IDF as on the Nevatim Air Force base. Private Lone Soldiers is growing. We are workA, who is extremely skilled in singing ing hard to ensure that they are provided and acting, serves in the esteemed IDF with the holistic support they need, as military band. well as the feeling of home during their “There is no doubt that my sisters had dedicated service.” an influence on my decision, but it is also FIDF CEO Steven Weil said, “The probably part of the DNA our parents brave sisters of this family have made the instilled in us,” explained Y, regarding noble decision to leave their home in the her new enlistment. “The connection U.S. in order to protect Israel and the between my family and Israel Jewish people by serving in was strong and significant very challenging roles. It is to our way of life. I know inspiring for us to witness that the service will be chaltheir tremendous contrilenging, but I am looking butions, and we are very forward to it.” appreciative of the enormous When asked if their parsacrifice they have made and ents were also planning to make Aliyah, continue to make, along with all the the sisters responded, “They finally young men and women who have chosen have some quiet, and they feel like a this path.” young couple again. There’s no need About Nefesh B’Nefesh (www.nbn.org. to hurry.” il): Founded in 2002, Nefesh B’Nefesh, The family’s dedication to Israel runs in cooperation with Israel’s Ministry of deep. Their mother is an employee of Aliyah and Integration, The Jewish Agency FIDF and has supported each one of for Israel, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael and her daughters in her individual journey. JNF-USA, is dedicated to revitalizing “Being the parent of a Lone Soldier, not to Aliyah from North America and the UK mention four, is not easy but it’s nothing by removing or minimizing the financial, compared to what it’s like for the young professional, logistical and social obstacles woman or man who is living away from of Aliyah. The support and comprehensive their family and all that is familiar. I’m so social services provided by Nefesh B’Nefesh to proud that our girls acted on their beliefs its over 70,000 newcomers have ensured that and, while the difficulties have been real 90% of its Olim have remained in Israel.

First 2022 Birthright Campus Trips arrive in Israel University of Florida group leads wave of 14,000 campus trip participants expected this summer

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ew York, NY - A group of students from the University of Florida (UF) arrived in Israel in early May, marking the first of many Birthright Campus Trips this year. The contingent is one of 28 student groups arriving this week. A total of 14,000 students from nearly 900 universities and colleges in North America are expected to land in Israel in the coming weeks. Birthright Campus Trips are a unique opportunity for North American students to go on a life-changing trip to Israel with their college friends and meet new people from their campus. The trips are usually timed to coincide with the school’s winter or summer breaks. The campus trips are among the first flights in Birthright Israel’s long-awaited return after a series of suspensions since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. This summer, Birthright expects to bring about 25,000 young people from around the world, 19,000 of which are from North America. Colleges with the largest number of Birthright Campus Trip participants include University of Michigan

- Ann Arbor (585 students); University of Florida (506 students); and University of Wisconsin – Madison (424 students). “After a long hiatus, we are excited to bring back so many students from North America to these important and exciting tours to Israel. Many of these students are coming from college and university campuses where incidences of antisemitism are increasing, leaving them feeling beleaguered and isolated,” said Birthright Israel CEO Gidi Mark. “We know that after going on a Birthright trip, these students feel more supported and prouder,” he added. Birthright Israel offers a free, lifechanging trip to Israel for young Jewish adults between the ages of 18 and 32 and, in doing so, transforms the Jewish future. Its mission is to give every Jewish young adult around the world, especially those less connected, the opportunity to visit Israel on an educational trip. Today, Birthright Israel is the largest educational tourism organization in the world that has over 750,000 journeys to the state of Israel.

A University of Florida Mayanot group after their arrival at Ben Gurion Airport Photo Credit: Alan Minkin

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ORGANIZATIONS

July/August 2022

21

Federation Star

www.hadassah.org / 518.330.1559

COLLIER/LEE CHAPTER OF HADASSAH

Helping to heal the world Joyce Toub Collier/Lee Hadassah President

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havuot, the festival celebrating the giving of the Torah, began the evening of June 4, and we continue to extract wisdom from the laws given to us at Mount Sinai more than 3,000 years ago. During Shavuot, we read The Book of Ruth, upholding values that resettle refugees fleeing their homeland. Hadassah members helped resettle Afghan refugees who fled their homeland last summer and

continue to do so. Hadassah is also welcoming and healing Ukrainian refugees as their plight continues. We learn we can make a difference in a world that seems increasingly unsafe for democracy. Ukrainians are not only fighting for their lives, their freedom and their nation, but they are also defending democracy. Hadassah has been part of a global campaign to help in this effort. I am pleased to tell you that Hadassah’s emergency Ukraine-related fund is now complete. Over $1.1 million has been raised and these funds will soon exceed the needs dedicated to these efforts. We, therefore, again focus our resources on meeting the needs of Hadassah Medical Organization, Youth Aliyah, Young

Judea and the 360° of Healing Campaign. Every contribution to Hadassah is meaningful. And when you designate your gift to Hadassah for the greatest need, your money goes to that cause, whether it is HMO, Youth Aliyah, Young Judea or our domestic programs on advocacy. When you designate a specific gift, you are supporting high-priority projects, facilities and equipment that create state-of-the-art environments, where our medical personnel can perform their duties, offering optimal medical care and healing. When you give to Youth Aliyah, you support at-risk youth in Israel who receive shelter, food, counseling and education. Young Judea provides summer camps and

Israeli programs for Jewish youth from across the U.S. and around the world. Hadassah’s advocacy program educates and informs us. Hadassah safeguards women’s health, empowering women with the knowledge to make the best health decisions for ourselves and our families. Hadassah’s new policy statement on reaffirming support for reproductive choice declares, “We all deserve agency over our own bodies and the autonomy to make reproductive health decisions based on medical guidance, our own values and what we feel is best for our health, our families and our future.” We are lucky to be in a position to help heal the world. Every little bit helps!

www.jhsswf.org / 239.566.1771

JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF SWFL

Explore Florida’s Jewish history Marina Berkovich JHSSWF President

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ooking for some nearby Jewish history to explore this summer? Visit some of the Florida Jewish heritage trail communities where Jewish experience has left an imprint of achievements and successes. Jews were suddenly free to settle legally on the peninsula, after 250 years of prohibitions, when England acquired Florida in 1763, but their lives were still limited by lack of employment and settlement opportunities. Then, in 1821, Florida became an American territory. Jews, who looked for tolerance of religious diversity or were actively persecuted elsewhere, began the exodus to Florida. What were the earliest towns in which Jews made their homes? We list only a few of them to give you a flavor of that early Florida Jewish pioneering experience, which was, comparatively speaking, not all that long ago.

Pensacola, Escambia County

Beth-El, 800 North Palafox Street, is the oldest dedicated Jewish temple in Florida, founded in 1876. It is a member of the Union for Reform Judaism. Its current building was built in 1931. Also in Pensacola, is the former Miss Gerty Goldschmidt’s Boarding House, at 230 North Barcelona Street. That was the Jewish eatery of the 1930s. They served the Jewish-style southern cooking to all customers, Jewish or not. And, while there, visit the North Hill Preservation District. It is on the National Register of Historic Places and sports elegant late 19th- and early 20th-century houses. Many prominent Jews resided there in that epoch.

Port St. Joe, a city in Gulf County

In its Constitution Convention State

Museum, 200 Allen Memorial Way, is a large outdoor monument that lists the delegates to the 1838-1841 constitutional convention. Among them is one of the best-known Florida Jewish settlers (Yulee) Levy, Florida’s first U.S. senator and the builder of the first cross-state railroad. Another person of importance was a seventh-generation Charleston-born American Jew, Raphael Jacob Moses, who moved to the now defunct city of St. Joseph in 1838 as secretary of the Lake Wimico & St. Joseph Canal & Railroad Company. The museum has a replica of its engine.

Apalachicola, Franklin County

Moses was a delegate to the 1847 Democratic convention and practiced law in the city of Apalachicola, Franklin County. It is a small city of about 2,500. There, Henry Brash built The Porches, a beautiful yellow pine house at 67 Avenue D in 1865. The actual porches were added in 1890. Brash was a confederate soldier, a sponge fisherman and merchant. Together, with his wife, Henrietta, they raised 11 children in that house, kept kosher and had their Passover seders on the beach.

Quincy, in Gadsden County

The town of Quincy, until the 1970s, was the home of Jewish tobacco growers. Max Wedeles House is located at 318 East King Street and Weinberg Tobacco Company is at 113 South Duval Street, in the Swisher Building, which was built in 1939.

Jewish cemeteries

The Jewish Cemeteries of Florida tell a partial tail of the early Jewish presence in the state. In the beginning, many Jews were transported for burial outside of Florida, to already established Jewish cemeteries. Then, Jewish cemeteries were established in Jacksonville, 1857; Key West, 1865; Pensacola, 1869; Ocala, 1873; Tampa, 1894; St. Augustine, 1911; Miami, 1913; and Temple Beth El Garden of Memories in Fort Myers, 1950s.

Help preserve Jewish history

We need your support. Join The Jewish

Historical Society of SWFL. Family membership is $54; individual membership is $36; student membership is $18; and corporate sponsorship is $300. Join us online or mail a check to The Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida, 8805 Tamiami Trail North, Suite # 255, Naples, FL 34108. We can be reached at 833-547-7935 (833-JHS-SWFL), www.jhsswf.org or

office@jhsswf.org. The Virtual Museum of SWFL Jewish History is located online at http://jewishhistorysouthwest florida.org/. The Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida is a section 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Contributions are deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

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22

Federation Star

COMMENTARY

July/August 2022

The surest way to heal our world Rabbi Fishel Zaklos

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e’re facing that time of the year again — summer — and everything that comes with it. One of the gifts of summer is time. In recent years, the expression “killing time” became popular. People kill time by doing meaningless, distracting things that make the time pass, thereby treating time as if it were something in endless supply. It most definitely is not. Jewish wisdom put it this way and even made it into a song: “Man worries about the loss of money and not about the loss of time. And yet, money is immaterial, whereas lost time is lost for good.” Time is precious, and the big question is, what do we choose to do with this time? Binge-watch Netflix shows? Stress about politics? Play games on our phones? Kvetch at the beach? There are much better options, like read interesting books while sipping your milkshake. Learn about one’s heritage. Meditate on the meaning of life. Smile at the beach. Some options are better than others, but there is one that I believe should be at the top of our priority list all year long, especially when more time is available. What is that magical time filler? Before I share it with you, let us explore a fascinating part of our history, specifically the history of monotheism and Judaism. The first fellow who discovered G-d was Abraham. Yet, he didn’t do it alone. He did it with his wife, Sarah, and their son, as a family, making his journey towards faith a familial experience. Their son, Isaac, his wife, Rebecca, and their children continued and consolidated this movement as a family. Jacob, Rachel and Leah, and their many children, all formed the nation of Israel. (Jacob was also called Israel.) When the Jews left Egypt hundreds of years later, they did it as family units. They

camped in the desert with their families, their “mishpacha.” The list goes on and on, proving a basic tenet of our heritage — Family is the crucible within which we form the golden links in the beautiful chains of destiny. Family is everything. It was never about an ascetic running off to the mountains and meditating endlessly without the responsibilities and stresses of family life. We do it as a family. It’s a team sport. In the Shema prayer that we recite twice each day, we are told to “Veshinantam L’banecha”–– we are responsible for transmitting our faith and traditions to our children. “L’dor Vador”–– we pass along the wisdom of the beautiful tapestry of our history, destiny and mystery from generation to generation. At the Seder table and the Friday night dinner, we are building the generation of tomorrow, which will continue our mandate of bringing heaven down to earth. This brings us to how we choose to spend our extra time. We need to prioritize family time with activities such as playing together, chatting, discussing and debating peacefully, making meals and eating together, going to the beach, traveling and playing board games. Loving families build healthy communities, just as we at Naples Chabad refer to ourselves as the Naples Chabad family. Healthy communities build a healthy nation. Our beloved country needs urgent healing. There is far too much pain, violence, anger, radicalism, physical and mental illness, materialism and spiritual void. Recent events bring home the necessity for spiritual health in our nation. We ought to see each other as family. Politics is not the most important thing. Love is. Healthy families with strong values are the solution to our societal ills. They are our best hope. I wish you and your loved ones a happy summer of healthy bonding. Let us heal our world one family at a time. May G-d bless you and America.

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Making Real Estate Dreams REALITY


SYNAGOGUE NEWS

July/August 2022

CHABAD JEWISH CENTER OF NAPLES

www.chabadnaples.com / 239.262.4474

Federation Star

MAGIC MATTERS Join author Joshua Jay in a discussion of his book, “How Magicians Think and Why Magic Matters.”

We have big news to share! Rabbi Fishel Zaklos

T

his is a very exciting time at Chabad of Naples and Preschool of the Arts as we launch an ambitious capital campaign to extend our campus facilities by 70%! The $6 million expansion will open new worlds of opportunity — from additional preschool and Hebrew School classrooms to expanding summer camp to fantastic spaces for community events. (Learn more in Preschool of the Arts’ Reflections from the Director in this issue!) “The Big Build” is a communityinspired and community-funded effort. Jay and Patty Baker are leading the way with a remarkable $2 million challenge grant. We need your help to unlock it. Only when we raise $2 million from caring members of the community like you, will Jay and Patty Baker match it. Help make this a reality! Learn more about how to partner and contribute at www.Naples BigBuild.com or reach out! We would love to share the many wonderful ways you can help bring this vision to life.

Wishing all a happy, healthy and joyous summer!

In spite of COVID contributing to a rather shaky beginning, our year at Chabad Naples finished remarkably strong, thank G-d. At the end of the school year, it was so gratifying to see our Hebrew School children graduate and receive their awards as well as seeing the joy and excitement that accompanied the graduation of the preschool students. The shul is growing, and with truly special Chabad Naples family style, we resumed our ever-popular special weekly Kiddush luncheons. Our Purim, Pesach,

23

Lag Bomer and Shavuot celebrations, with a full house, brought us all together. How fortunate we are to come together in joy to learn, pray and celebrate! Throughout the summer, we continue to offer the assistance of our wonderful, competent volunteers, if you know of anyone who requires help. While welcoming our usual happy and enthusiastic camp full of eager children, we are organizing for a coming year of enlightening programs for all ages. If you wish to share the joy of happy faces, arrange for a camp tour through our office.

Shabbat and Kiddush

Shabbat services at Chabad Naples are popular. One weekly highlight has always been the Kiddush luncheon, sponsored every week by a family wishing to honor the memory of a loved one, celebrate a simcha or just sponsor the happiness and appreciation of being with family and friends.

When: Friday, July 22 at noon (ET) Where: Zoom • $25 per household Make sure to register at www.jewishnaples.org to get the Zoom link and hear Joshua Jay.

OF GREATER NAPLES

The Torah service begins at 11 a.m. and includes the Rabbi’s contemporary, meaningful and relevant insights.

The flying challah and kosher meals from the heart

Do you know someone in need of a little extra love? Each week, we send out smiles with an uplifting message in the form of tasty fresh challah. Nominate a recipient by sending us an email. If you know someone who would appreciate a meal for Shabbat, or just in general, please let us know. We will be happy to arrange to have one sent to those who are really in need and without means to obtain help.

Minyan

If you have a yahrzeit or need to say Kaddish, we are always here to help make a minyan during the week. We are grateful to those who help us with this minyan service when called.

Videos

Rabbi Fishel offers a video each week. Email office@chabadnaples. com to be placed on the weekly email list. You can view the past year of videos at www.chabadnaples.com.

Weekly email and mailing list

If you would like to be added to the weekly updates and mailing list, call 239-262-4474 or email office@ chabadnaples.com.

Renew your dues now so that you will:  Be able to register for WCA programs  Continue your participation in groups you have joined  Continue to receive WCA communications, including the WCA Weekly Newsletter  Be included in the online Membership Directory Starting September 1, only women who have renewed their membership will receive WCA communications and be eligible to participate in WCA programs.

Renew your WCA membership today! wcanaples.org (Your dues payment will cover your membership through August 2023.)

WHAT? Not yet a member? JOIN TODAY!


24

Federation Star

SYNAGOGUE NEWS

July/August 2022

www.bethtikvahnaples.org / 239.434.1818

BETH TIKVAH

Antisemitism in Florida Steven Chizzik President

I

start my day, as many of you probably do, by going online and reading various news websites to catch up on overnight events and feel connected to what’s happening around me. It seems that not a day goes by

where I don’t read about a Jewish person being attacked simply because he/she was walking in their neighborhood wearing a yamulka or dressing, perhaps, somewhat differently to what is mainstream. These news stories are not only happening in European countries and distant places, but they are also regularly happening all across our country, right here in the United States of America! How many of you know that, according to the Anti-Defamation League, Florida is home to the fourth highest

Candle lighting times July 1: 8:05 p.m. July 8: 8:05 p.m. July 15: 8:03 p.m. July 22: 8:01 p.m. July 29: 7:57 p.m. Aug. 5: 7:53 p.m. Aug. 12: 7:48 p.m. Aug. 19: 7:41 p.m. Aug. 26: 7:35 p.m.

KATZ

number of antisemitic incidences in the United States? Earlier this year, swastikas were found on a vacant restaurant in Wellington, Florida (east coast) and, in May, two people were waving a swastika flag right outside Disney World in Orlando as another person was shouting antisemitic remarks through a bullhorn at visitors as they approached the amusement park. In another incident, Jewish residents in Boca Raton woke up to flyers with the face of Hitler on them outside their homes. Antisemitic incidents in Florida rose by 40% from 2019 to 2020. I’m sure they rose even further this past year as antisemitic vandalism incidents continue to rise in Florida. These deplorable acts of antisemitism have forced Jewish institutions and synagogues to increase security and incur the costs of keeping our congregants safe. After consultation with the Collier County Sheriffs’ Department as well as our local FBI office, Beth Tikvah employs sophisticated monitoring equipment in addition to security guards. Michael Igel, who last year was appointed to Florida’s Statewide Task Force on Holocaust Education, said, “It’s a sad day for humanity when even Disney World, the “happiest place on Earth,” is not immune to blatant antisemitism.” Beth Tikvah hosted a packed synagogue this past season as State Attorney Andrew Warren gave us his perspective of antisemitism. I am writing this column today in the hope that each of us condemns not only

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Please check the Beth Tikvah website, www.bethtikvahnaples.org, for details of all our events. • Sunday morning services begin at 9 a.m. via Zoom • Friday services begin at 6:15 p.m. in person and Zoom • Saturday services begin at 9:30 a.m. in person and Zoom • We convene Yahrzeit minyanim upon request. You may reach Rabbi Chorny directly at 239-537-5257.

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antisemitism, but all forms of racism and bigotry, and we each take every opportunity to come together to reject poisonous deeds and rhetoric. By doing so, we will all make this world a better place. There is no place for racism! I hope everyone is safe and healthy and enjoying your summer wherever you are. I am looking forward to everyone’s return in the fall. I would like to remind everyone again that Beth Tikvah is now offering new members their first year’s dues free of charge. If you or a friend wishes to experience the warmth and community found at Beth Tikvah, please join us. Beth Tikvah is the affiliated congregation in Greater Naples of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ). We are grateful to the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples (JFGN) for support of our Scholar in Residence, Naples Jewish Film Festival and All Things Jewish programs.

une ... the snowbirds have returned north, traffic has lightened and those of us who are year-rounders can get into restaurants easily. The Jewish Congregation of Marco Island has also transitioned to a summer schedule. It will hold its annual 4th of July Fundraising Picnic at noon on that day. Join us for a social get-together and lunch featuring traditional hotdogs, hamburgers and pulled chicken. Beer and wine are BYOB. A $25 donation per person is required. The money raised at our barbeque is used to buy Publix gift cards, which are donated to the Food Pantry of the Naples Senior Center. The Senior Center JFCS Food Pantry provides food assistance to the residents of Collier County and surrounding areas. Call the Temple office at 239-642-0800 to make

reservations. We look forward to this annual event to practice tzedukah and celebrate our country and its freedoms. With the summer, our services become more dependent on congregant participation. In lieu of a sermon, members have the opportunity to study and present each week’s Parshat. This is an intellectually challenging and stimulating opportunity to explore various interpretations of the Torah portion and to apply these to modern life. Each week, a different member of the congregation presents their summary and interpretation. It is our chance to delve into the Torah as a lay person and discover the significance of each word, each sentence. Those who have done so find it a unique and uplifting experience. I can attest to this personally, having participated for many summers. Everyone is welcome to join us Friday nights at 7:30 p.m. for a beautiful service. A dessert Oneg Shabbat follows the service, allowing for social mingling and lively discussions. Have a safe, peaceful and restful summer.


FOCUS ON YOUTH

Federation Star

July/August 2022

PRESCHOOL OF THE ARTS

25

www.chabadnaples.com / 239.262.4474

Join Jay and Patty Baker in supporting education and the arts By Ettie Zaklos, Preschool of the Arts Founder & Director

I

n June, we completed our 11th year of Preschool of the Arts with great fanfare: multiple end-of-yearcelebrations and a grand Pre-K graduation ceremony in Cambier Park. At our graduation, I was deeply humbled to share a very big announcement: Preschool of the Arts is expanding its campus with a brand-new 17,000-square-foot building! Since its inception, Preschool of the Arts has been innovating, enhancing and broadening its program. We started as a fledgling preschool with a vision of an excellent early childhood education and my two daughters as the first students enrolled in the school. There was a dream of bringing together early childhood educators who are driven to give 100% of themselves, reach for greater heights and love and nurture confident and creative young learners. And that dream became a reality with exponential growth. Community events are standing room only, our educational programs have reached maximum capacity and our award-winning preschool has long outgrown its building. As we enter the second decade at POTA, some may see our long waiting lists as a sign of success. But, for us at POTA, having to deny children their essential education is not something we can abide. As we look to build tomorrow’s leaders, we are obligated to take a step

forward and build something bigger and better. For years, we have dreamt of expanding the campus in order to provide the POTA experience to many more deserving children. We have an ambitious plan to create a vibrant hub of learning and connection for our families and youth. And, now, we are thrilled to introduce you to ‘The Big Build,’ a $6 million capital campaign that will expand our preschool’s footprint by 70%. The building will transform learning for our children with new classrooms, a children’s library, a STEM center and innovative communal spaces. We are building a space where children can learn, campers can play, teens can connect, and the community can gather and celebrate.

We are also getting a new name!

Our award-winning Preschool of the Arts will be renamed the “Jay and Patty Baker Preschool of the Arts” to honor two incredible philanthropists who are

helping build today for the leaders of tomorrow. The Bakers have made a generous commitment of $2 million to our campaign — but there’s a twist! They are challenging us to raise another $2 million of our own before they complete their generous pledge. This process will effectively double every dollar raised as we embark on the first stage of our campaign. We turn to our incredible Naples community to ask for your partnership to enable us to complete this major phase of our growth. Please consider donating today, so that we can continue to build the leaders of tomorrow. Go to www.NaplesBigBuild.com.

We really need your support!

and Patty Baker for their incredible commitment to our school and their generosity, which will enable us to significantly expand programming and welcome hundreds more children through our doors. We could not be more humbled or honored to have our preschool forever connected to their incredible legacy. We now get to the real hard work of meeting our capital campaign goals. Our fundraising goal is high, but we know that our Naples community is more than up for the challenge to make this happen for our children. If we all come together and put our heart into it, we can transform ‘The Big Build’ into a dynamic reality. We cannot wait to get started and hope you will join us!

manager, subject to the approval of the Federation board. Regular Columns: Regular columns shall be accepted only from leaders (Rabbis, Presidents, Chairs) of established and recognized Jewish organizations in Greater Naples and the designated chairs of the regular committees of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. Special Announcements: Special announcements shall be accepted from established Jewish organizations in Greater Naples and may, at the discretion of the Federation board, be subject to the conditions applicable to paid advertisements, as set forth above.

News Items: Only those news items pertaining to matters of general interest to the broadest cross section of the Jewish community will be accepted for publication. Note: Items of controversial opinions and points of view about political issues will not be accepted for publication without prior approval of a majority of the Federation Officers and Trustees. All persons and organizations objecting to the actions and rulings of the Editor or Publications Committee Chair shall have the right to appeal those rulings to the Officers and Board of Trustees of JFGN.

I would like to personally thank Jay

Federation Star Publication Policy The Federation Star is a subsidized arm of JFGN. Its purpose and function is to publicize the activities and programs of Federation as well as ongoing activities of recognized Jewish organizations in Greater Naples. The goal of JFGN is to reach out and unite all Jews of the Greater Naples area. While differing opinions and points of view exist on many issues of importance to Jews, the Federation Star will confine itself to publishing only items that report the facts of actual events of concern to Jews and offer commentary that clearly intends to unite all Jews in a common purpose.

Critical or derogatory comments directed at individuals or organizations will not be published. To avoid misunderstandings, controversies and destructive divisions among our people, the Officers and Board of Trustees of Federation have adopted the following publication policy: Advertisements: All advertisements, regardless of their sponsor, shall be paid for in full, at the established rates, prior to publication. The contents of all advertisements shall be subject to review and approval of the Federation board or its designee. Commercial advertisers may make credit arrangements with the advertising

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26

Federation Star

FOCUS ON YOUTH

July/August 2022

TEMPLE SHALOM YESh

www.naplestemple.org / 239.455.3030

Building a vibrant Jewish community for children and families By Rabbi Ariel Boxman, Director of Lifelong Learning

W

hat a wonderful year we had in YESh (Youth Engagement at Shalom)! We were sorry to say goodbye for the summer. Our students enjoyed a year filled with so much fun that they didn’t even realize how much they were learning. I want to thank our teachers, madrichim (teacher assistants) and volunteers for providing an outstanding experience for every one of our students. I would also like to thank the Temple Shalom Sisterhood for the very generous annual donation they make to support our program. Both the Men’s Club and Sisterhood are committed partners of our Youth Engagement program and are always happy to help when called upon. We are grateful for everything you do for us, and we look forward to deepening our partnership in educating the next generation of committed Jews. A giant thanks goes to my assistant, Mary Flores, my right-hand woman. Mary not only takes care of all the logistics needed to run our program, but she does so with a warm smile on her face and endless amounts of patience. Mary, you are just wonderful, and I am thankful to call you my partner and friend. Unless you have children in our YESh program, you may not know much of what goes on and what we offer. I want

to take this opportunity to share some highlights of our program and shed light on the ways in which we are actively building a vibrant Jewish community for children and young families. YESh meets on Sunday mornings and incorporates both Judaic studies and Hebrew language education. Students in kindergarten through 7th grade participate in grade-specific Judaic classes focused on Jewish traditions, rituals and holidays. In addition to gradelevel Judaic, students choose electives each week, based on their interests. Electives include crafts, yoga, Tikkun Olam, Hebrew Olympics, Israeli dance, cooking, guitar and choir. Students in the 3rd through 6th grades are also invited to attend Hebrew classes following the Judaic portion of the morning where they learn basic Hebrew reading skills in preparation for their B’nei Mitzvah. Once students become bar/bat mitzvah, we invite them to continue their journey into Judaism by joining our

Cooking elective Confirmation Program. Once a month, the 8th- through 10thgrade students who want to be confirmed come together for classes led by Rabbi Miller and Cantor Azu, where the topics explored include ethics, pop culture and interreligious dialogue. In addition to confirmation, 8th- through 12th-grade students are also invited to serve as role models for the younger students, while deepening their ties to Judaism and Temple Shalom as Madrichim. Each Sunday during YESh, these students assist teachers and support the younger students by sharing their own passions and knowledge in a healthy and positive learning environment. The program has been wildly popular with our congregation’s teens, with a record number of madrichim participating this year. We look forward to welcoming even more next year. Our youth engagement programs at Temple Shalom are essential for building Jewish community for the youngest among us as well as their families. In keeping with the One Family mission, our main goal for YESh is to provide a space in which Jewish children

Kindergarten and 1st graders

Lego elective can create meaningful relationships with one another, our Temple and Judaism. We are proud to provide such a rich program and are grateful for all the support we are given from the congregation, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and our Naples community. We wish everyone a happy and safe summer!

GIVE YOUR BUSINESS GIVE YOUR BUSINESS GROWTH POTENTIAL. GROWTH POTENTIAL. ADVERTISE ADVERTISEWITH WITH THE

FEDERATI N STAR Contact Joy Walker at Robin Leonardi • 941.552.6307 • rleonardi@jfedsrq.org www.TheJewishNews.org 941-284-0520 or walkerjoy62@yahoo.com.


COMMUNITY DIRECTORY TEMPLE SHALOM OF NAPLES (Reform) 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL 34119 Phone: 455.3030  Fax: 455.4361 Email: info@naplestemple.org www.naplestemple.org Rabbi Adam Miller, MAHL Cantor Donna Azu, MSM Rabbi Ariel Boxman, MAHL, MARE, Director of Lifelong Learning Rabbi James H. Perman, D.D., Rabbi Emeritus Deborah Rosen Fidel, J.D., MAJPS, Executive Director Len Teitelbaum, President Jim Cochran, Music Director Shabbat Services: Shabbat Eve - Friday 7:30 p.m. Shabbat - Saturday 10 a.m. Sisterhood Men’s Club Adult Education Havurot Youth Groups Religious School Judaic Library Hebrew School Preschool Adult Choir Social Action Naples’ only Judaica Shop

CHABAD NAPLES JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER serving Naples and Marco Island 1789 Mandarin Road, Naples, FL 34102 Phone: 262.4474 Email: info@chabadnaples.com Website: www.chabadnaples.com Rabbi Fishel Zaklos Dr. Arthur Seigel, President Ettie Zaklos, Education Director Shabbat Services Shabbat - Saturday 10 a.m. Camp Gan Israel Hebrew School Preschool of the Arts Jewish Women’s Circle Adult Education Bat Mitzvah Club Friendship Circle Smile on Seniors Flying Challah Kosher food delivery

CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS & ESTERO 24611 Production Circle Bonita Springs, FL 34135 Phone: 239-949-6900 Email: chabad@jewishbonita.com Website: www.JewishBonita.com

Federation Star

July/August 2022 JEWISH CONGREGATION OF MARCO ISLAND (Reform) 991 Winterberry Drive Marco Island, FL 34145 Phone: 642.0800  Fax: 642.1031 Email: tboxma@marcojcmi.com Website: www.marcojcmi.com Rabbi Mark Gross Hari Jacobsen, Cantorial Soloist Stan Alliker, President

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION

BETH TIKVAH

Services are held at: The Unitarian Congregation 6340 Napa Woods Way Rabbi Howard Herman 431.3858 Email: rabbi@naplesjewishcongregation.org www.naplesjewishcongregation.org

1459 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34109

(Reform)

Charles Flum, President Jane Galler, Cantorial Soloist

Shabbat Services Friday 7:30 p.m. Seasonal: Saturday Talmud-Torah at 9:30 a.m. and Shachrit at 10:30 a.m.

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

Rabbi’s Lifelong Learning Series Sidney R. Hoffman Jewish Film Festival Saul I. Stern Cultural Series JCMI Book Club

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

A DONOR ADVISED FUND (or DAF) is an efficient and easy way for a donor to give to charities over time. Make contributions when it is most convenient

M A KE

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IMP A CT THROUGH

Take a deduction in the year contributions are made.

GIVING

Make charitable gifts from the DAF throughout the year, if desired. Gifts can support the Jewish Federation, your synagogue or any other 501(c)(3) charity - and TOP does all the work! Multiply and magnify your generosity through asset-based charitable gifts, such as appreciated stocks, and bypass capital gains tax. Ellen Weiss Executive Director 813.769.4785 ellen@topjewishfoundation.org

The community foundation of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

Marcy Friedland Planned Giving Director 239.263.4205 mfriedland@jewishnaples.org

Together, we are ensuring a Jewish future. WWW.TOPJEWISHFOUNDATION.ORG

27

(Conservative)

(just west of Mission Square Plaza)

Phone: 434.1818 Email: office@bethtikvah.us Website: www.bethtikvahnaples.org Rabbi Ammos Chorny Steve Chizzik, President Roberta Miller, Secretary Shabbat Services Friday evenings 6:15 p.m. Saturday mornings 9:30 a.m. Youth Education Adult Education Community Events

Jewish Organizations to Serve You in Greater Naples (All area codes are 239 unless otherwise noted.)

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Phone: 263.4205  Fax: 263.3813 Website: www.jewishnaples.org Email: info@jewishnaples.org • Federation Board Chair: Jane Schiff • Federation President/CEO: Jeffrey Feld

American Jewish Committee

Regional Dir: Brian Lipton, 941.365.4955

American Technion Society

Chapter Dir: Kelley Whiter, 561.395.7206

Friends of the IDF

Exec. Dir.: Dina Ben Ari, 305.354.8233

GenShoah SWFL 263.9200

Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah President: Joyce Toub, 518.330.1559

Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center

Chairperson: Stuart Price President/CEO: Susan Suarez, 263.9200

Israel Bonds

Monica DiGiovanni, 727.282.1124

Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida

President: Marina Berkovich, 566.1771

Jewish National Fund

Joshua Mellits, 941.462.1330 x865

Jewish War Veterans Post 202 Commander, Harvey Sturm, 261.3270

Men’s Cultural Alliance The Federation Star is published monthly, September through July, by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

Rabbi Mendy & Luba Greenberg Co-directors

2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 2201 Naples, FL 34109-0613

Services: Sunday 9 a.m. Monday through Friday 8 a.m. Shabbat 10 a.m.

Phone: 239.263.4205 • Fax: 239.263.3813 E-mail: info@jewishnaples.org • Website: www.jewishnaples.org

Adult Education Challah of Love Community Events Daily Minyan Services Hebrew School Kosher Grocery Kosher Meals on Wheels Smile on Seniors

Publisher: Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

Volume 31, No. 11 • July/August 2022 • 28 pages USPS Permit No. 1101

Editor: Sharon Hood • 239.591.2709 • sharon@marketcrank.com Design: MarketCrank, Inc.

President: Michael Sobol, 508.733.9427

Naples BBYO

Jessica Zimmerman, 263.4205

Naples Friends of American Magen David Adom (MDA) SE Reg Dir: Joel Silberman, 954.457.9766

Naples Senior Center at JFCS Phone: 325.4444 Chairperson: Prentiss Higgins President/CEO: Dr. Jaclynn Faffer

PJ Library

Coordinator: Alicia Feldman www.jewishnaples.org/pj-library

Women’s Cultural Alliance

Advertising: Joy Walker • 941.284.0520

President: Patti Boochever, 518.852.3440

September 2022 Issue Deadlines: Editorial: August 3 • Advertising: August 11 Send news stories to: sharon@marketcrank.com

Zionist Organization of America President: Jerry Sobel, 914.329.1024


28

Federation Star

July/August 2022

THE BIG BUILD

Children in Naples Need You. It’s time to get up and grow. You can help unlock $2,000,000 for our community. There is a severe need in our community. The demand for our services and programs is way beyond our current capacity. As we go to print, 85 children are waiting to enroll! And the number grows every year. We need you to help us get up and grow.

We have an ambitious plan of creating a vibrant hub of learning and connection for our families and youth, with a brand-new building.

This $6,000,000 expansion will give our community a place to grow the leaders of tomorrow and ensure a vibrant community for years to come.

It will expand the preschool’s footprint with new classrooms, a children’s library, a STEM center, and innovative communal spaces.

Jay and Patty Baker are leading the way with a remarkable $2,000,000 challenge grant. We need your help to unlock it. Only when we raise $2,000,000 from caring members of the community like you, will Jay and Patty Baker match it!

Please give generously. We need your support because every dollar you give will unlock another one. Donate Today at NaplesBigBuild.com For more information and dedication opportunities: Email: info@NaplesBigBuild.com Call: 239-262-4474

Renaming Our Preschool Preschool of the Arts will be renamed the “Jay and Patty Baker Preschool of the Arts” in honor of the Bakers’ generous commitment of $2 million to expand our campus with a new building. Renowned philanthropists, Jay and Patty Baker are longtime supporters of education and the arts both nationally and locally in our home community of Naples, Florida. Through their forwardthinking gift they are enabling Chabad of Naples and Preschool of the Arts to significantly expand programming opportunities to welcome hundreds more children through our doors.

NAPLESBIGBUILD.COM


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook

Articles inside

Building a vibrant Jewish community for children and families

4min
page 26

Join Jay and Patty Baker in supporting education and the arts

4min
page 25

With summer comes changes and opportunity

2min
page 24

Antisemitism in Florida

3min
page 24

We have big news to share!

4min
page 23

The surest way to heal our world

4min
page 22

Explore Florida’s Jewish history

4min
page 21

Helping to heal the world

2min
page 21

First 2022 Birthright Campus Trips arrive in Israel

2min
page 20

Boston family makes history as four sisters serve together as Lone Soldiers in IDF

4min
page 20

What kind of Jew am I?

5min
page 19

Kvetching – Is there an upside to voicing our complaints?

4min
page 18

King soars, Jerry and Marge win, super pets and more

5min
page 17

There are angels amongst us

5min
page 16

A call for 2Gs by GenShoah SWFL

2min
page 14

Summer at the Museum

4min
pages 13-14

We could not have done it without you

3min
page 12

The fun never stops with WCA!

4min
page 10

Jewish Young Professionals

1min
page 9

Meet the new MCA President, Michael Sobol

2min
page 9

MCA honors two members

1min
page 8

PJ Our Way

1min
page 6

Take a trip to Israel with PJ Library

2min
page 5

Summer programming

3min
page 4

One brick at a time

3min
page 3

Let the planning for next season begin!

3min
page 2

An interview with Building Committee Chair Marc Saperstein

5min
pages 1-2
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