2025 ANNUAL COMMUNITY CAMPAIGN KICK-OFF DECEMBER 11, 2024 - 7PM
Launching a successful season Together, As One
By Rosalee Bogo, Annual Community Campaign Chair
The month of October was filled with many of our most important and sacred Jewish holidays. As we begin a sweet new year, we wish you a L’Shana Tovah 5785. In this new year, we hope you will be participating in all that has been planned for the season ahead. Starting with the 2025 Annual Community Campaign being kicked off on Dec. 11, we have filled the season with meaningful programs, incredible speakers and special events.
A big thank you to those in our community who have agreed to be on the Campaign Cabinet. With a growing community, we reached out to more volunteers to help with calls, letter writing and meetings. The Annual Community Campaign is a whole community effort, and it truly takes a village.
As our slogan, “Together, As One,” indicates, we work as a team to fulfill our core mission to care for Jews locally, in Israel and in 69 countries around the world. We exceeded our goal in 2024. With this new cabinet and your generosity, we will exceed our 2025 goal of $1,850,000.
Annual Community Campaign kickoff
Our Annual Community Campaign’s kickoff will be at the beautiful Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center on Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. There will be a special VIP Patron’s event prior to the main event at Grey Oaks Country Club. Our guest speaker that evening is National Director and CEO of Security Community Network Michael Masters.
SCN is the official safety and security organization of the Jewish Community of North America. With the unfortunate and rampant rise in antisemitism, there could not be a more relevant speaker for these troubling times.
Reception and appreciation dinner
Our Major Gifts and Lion of Judah appreciation dinner is planned for Jan. 8 at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. Our guest speaker, David Heller, has assumed the role of National Campaign Chair of JFNA. Prior to this event, Heller will speak at our Inaugural Silver Circle reception which is planned for 4 p.m. at the Naples Hilton Hotel; details and invitations will be forthcoming.
Silver Circle Society
The Silver Circle Society is a newly formed group of donors who have generously given to any Federation for 25 years or more. Silver Circle is another opportunity
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Rosalee Bogo
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
Kristallnacht 2024
By Ginny Segaloff, CJD Kristallnacht Program Chair
The purpose of Catholic-Jewish Dialogue’s Annual Kristallnacht Commemoration is to remember the lives lost in one of the darkest periods in the history of mankind. Our commemoration also provides a “teaching moment” to the events that precipitated this tragedy and affects our current events. Our hope is that by learning the lessons of this history, we are not doomed to repeat it.
This year’s speaker is John Koenigsberg. Koenigsberg’s story is a beautiful and
compelling account of those who stood up to do the “right thing” despite the fear of great personal danger. Koenigsberg will recount his story of survival as a child of five-and-a-half years old who was sheltered by the Snijcker family in Holland from 1943-1945.
Join us on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist. Visit www. jewishnaples.org to register for the Kristallnacht Commemoration Program so we can plan accordingly.
launching a successful season...continued from page 1
for us to show appreciation to the supporters who enable Federation to achieve its core mission. If you are a long-time donor of JFNA, here in the Greater Naples area or elsewhere, and would like to be recognized as a part of this group of esteemed donors, please let us know.
Upcoming events
In the next few months, we will share other events including the many that are planned for our Women in Philanthropy. This includes Lions of Judah, Pomegranates and our newest women's group, JeWEL Society. Any woman who donates
to the Annual Community Campaign at the Women in Philanthropy Luncheon on Jan. 23 is invited. Women’s Division of our local Federation donated more than $830,000 — that’s 47% of our 2024 Annual Community Campaign. As you read e-blasts, receive invitations or read announcements in the Federation Star for upcoming events, please make your reservations quickly. We have planned an exciting year to share with you, and we will look forward to being together again to be entertained, educated and share experiences all while doing Tikun Olam.
FEATURING MICHAEL MASTERS
Michael Masters is the National Director and CEO of the Secure Community Network (SCN). Mr. Masters previously served as executive director of the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for Cook County, Ill., as the Chief of Staff for the Chicago Police Department and as an assistant to the former mayor of the City of Chicago, the Honorable Richard M. Daley. Mr. Masters received a commission as an officer in the United States Marine Corps, where he attained the rank of captain.
Mr. Masters has served on numerous task forces for the Department of Homeland Security. He is the only individual in the country to hold appointments on both the federal Homeland Security Advisory Council and Faith-Based Advisory Council. He also serves as a member of the Executive Board of the FBI’s Chicago Joint Terrorism Task Force.
VIP Seasonal Sponsorships opportunities available: for details, email eavila@jewishnaples.org
To register, go to: www.JewishNaples.org
See Calendar and Events tab or scan the QR code
For more information, please contact: 239-263-4205 or info@jewishnaples.org.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 7 – 9 PM
WHERE: Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center
TOPIC: Safety & Security for The Jewish Community in North America
COST: $36
Dessert Reception by Prestige Catering to follow
Secure Community Network security webpage is now live!
By John Murtagh, Regional Security Advisor-Florida West Coast
The Secure Community Network security webpage on the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples website serves as a vital resource for safeguarding our neighborhoods and organizations by promoting awareness and preparedness. At the heart of this platform is the mission of the Secure Community Network, which focuses on ensuring the safety, security and resiliency of the Jewish Community in North America. By bringing this mission online, the website provides users with access to essential resources and guidance for enhancing local security within the Greater Naples Federation.
The website also provides guidance on security best practices, offering guidelines on safety protocols and planning. Ultimately, our Community Security webpage assists in strengthening our resilience and fosters a culture of collaboration in our shared mission of security and safety.
Please visit the security webpage found under “Who We Are.” Click on the Security tab. The direct link can be found here: https://www.jewish naples.org/security.
About SCN
One key feature of the website is the incident reporting portal, where community members can quickly and confidentially report suspicious activity or security breaches to the Secure Community Network’s National Jewish Security Operations Command Center. This real-time reporting tool fosters a culture of vigilance and enables authorities to respond more effectively to emerging threats.
The website also offers convenient links to emergency management websites, connecting users to critical updates, disaster preparedness tips and official response channels. This ensures that the community remains informed and coordinated in times of crisis.
The Secure Community Network (SCN), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is the official safety and security organization of the Jewish community in North America. Founded in 2004 under the auspices of The Jewish Federations of North America and the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, SCN serves as the central organization dedicated exclusively to the safety and security of the American Jewish community, working across 146 Federations, 50 partner organizations, over 300 independent communities and other partners in the public, private, nonprofit and academic sectors. SCN is dedicated to ensuring that Jewish organizations, communities, life and culture can flourish safely and securely. securecommunitynetwork.org
This special event is for any woman who contributes to the 2025 JFGN Annual Community Campaign
DECEMBER 19TH Bus Departs 8:30 am
Luxury transportation with snacks and fun activities
Special Costume Display
3-course luncheon in The Tavern at the Wick Show: JosephandtheTechnicolorDreamCoat Relaxing bus ride home with friends to Federation
https://JFGN.regfox.com/ women-in-philanthropy-bus-trip FOR MORE INFO please email: afeldman@jewishnaples.org
FIND YOURSELF IN CHERISHED COMPANY.
It’s that time of year for celebrating where you’ve been and where you’re going. Feeling strong, passionate, and purposeful comes easily in a stimulating setting. That’s where The Carlisle Naples shines—a beautiful community, impressive amenities, gourmet dinng, and invigorating programs offer what you need for a lively, enjoyable future. Book a tour and take it all in.
John Murtagh
4720 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34119
Phone: 239.263.4205 www.jewishnaples.org
Email: info@jewishnaples.org
Officers
Board Chair: Nathaniel Ritter
Vice Chairs: Robin Mintz, Marc Saperstein, Arlene Sobol
Secretary: Rosalee Bogo
Treasurer: Steve Strome
Immediate Past Chair: Jane Schiff
Board of Directors
Felicia Anchor, Frank Baum, Shelly Bell, Myra Benedikt, Mark Blaskey, Patti Boochever, Harvey Cohen, Marcia Cohodes, Max Deifik, Paula Filler, Cheryl Ginsburg, Mia Hyatt, Steve Iser, Larry Israelite, Tammy Katz, Elliot Lerner, Joel Pittelman, Michael Rubenstein, Anne Schuchman, Michael Sobol, Jay Weiss, Beth Wolff, Board Member Emeritus: Alvin Becker, Emerita, 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), Alvin Becker, Jane Schiff
Synagogue Representatives
Stan Alliker, Cantor Donna Azu, Rabbi Ariel Boxman, Rabbi Ammos Chorny, Joshua Garfield, Rabbi Mendel Gordon, Rabbi Mendy Greenberg, Rabbi Mark Gross, Joseph Henson, Rabbi Howard Herman, Rabbi Adam Miller, Charles Flum, Rabbi James Perman, Dr. Arthur Seigel, Rabbi Fishel Zaklos
Staff
Jeffrey Feld: Federation President & CEO
Eduardo Avila: Campaign Associate
Reneé Bialek: Program Director
Michelle Cunningham: Receptionist
Courtney DeVault: Accounting Manager
Alicia Feldman: Development Director
Amber Ferren: PJ Library Coordinator
Communications Manager
Manny Munoz: Assistant Facility Manager
Pat Pastorius: Facility Manager
Linda Sherman: Receptionist
Federation's mission is to enhance and enrich the quality of Jewish life by recognizing and supporting the charitable, educational, humanitarian and social service needs of the Jewish community locally, nationally, overseas and in the state of Israel.
Programs include:
• Annual Community Campaign
• Celebrate Israel
• Educational & Cultural Programs
• Israel and Overseas 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 Federation Star and Connections magazine
• Singles Social Group
• Women’s Cultural Alliance
• Women in Philanthropy
• Youth Activities Committee –sponsoring youth education and scholarships for Jewish Summer Camp and Israel Experiences
Kodcode – Urgency fosters innovation
By Paula Filler, JFNA National Women in Philanthropy Board Member
During my recent participation in a JFNA mission to Germany and Israel, my group of Jewish Federation leaders had an opportunity to understand how our philanthropic efforts support Jewish and other Ukrainian refugees living in Germany and the pressing human needs of Israel.
As you may know, there is a critical shortage of IDF soldiers available to fight the simultaneous war fronts in Gaza, the north and the west bank. Through your generous support of Israel, a new and innovative program was started months ago called Kodcode.
Aaron Fruchtman described the program, which is designed to prepare Heredi men for technical service in the defense of the Israeli people. One Heredi man who recently completed the program explained that his orthodox studies did
not prepare him for the IDF. Furthermore, he admitted that his years of studying the Torah and Jewish Law did not even give him the ability to earn a living. He explained that he was unemployable, because he had no knowledge of math, English or any technical skills.
The new Kodcode program trains Heredi men in math, English and coding skills so that they can support the IDF in noncombatant roles. When the Kodcode program was announced, 2,000 Heredi men between the ages of 21-27 expressed interest. After careful selection and six months of intense training, 200 of the original Heredi applicants successfully completed the
program and are now supporting the defense of Israel.
In July 2024, the Israeli Supreme Court decided that Heredi men would no longer be exempt from IDF service. JFNA’s support of an innovative program, has become a model for serving Israel’s needs to defend itself while also giving orthodox men skills that they can use after the war to earn a living.
Welcome guests with a brick paver
By Eduardo Avila, Campaign Associate
Would you like to add your name to a brick paver as a welcome to guests visiting our new Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center? Contact me at eavila@jewishnaples.org or 239-263-4205.
Make your check payable to JFGN and
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. Each row counts as one line of text, only use the amount of lines specified below for your brick.
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)
Paula Filler
An Introduction to Moorings Park’s Three Communities &
Our Executive Chef’s Top Culinary Delights
Here’s your chance to get a taste of what life is like at Moorings Park’s three stunning Naples communities.
Attainable Luxury Begins at $552,000
Successful aging expert and Vice President Tom Mann will introduce you to our three premier Moorings Park communities. Discover an innovative approach to successful aging as you learn valuable details on costs, oor plans, healthcare, dining, and waiting lists.
During this presentation, you’ll enjoy a video tour of each community’s clubhouse and model residences, all while savoring top culinary delights from our executive chef.
RSVP today by scanning the QR code, visiting MooringsPark.org/Events, or calling 239-842-2558.
Discover Our Secrets to Successful Aging
Thursday, December 5th | 10:30 a.m. Moorings Park Grande Lake 7410 Little Lane, Naples, FL 34105
RSVP by December 3rd by calling 239-842-2558, visiting MooringsPark.org/Events, or scanning the QR code.
Unable to attend? Join our webinar on Friday, December 6th at 10:30 a.m. To register, visit MooringsPark.org/Webinar.
Prices from $ 552 ,00 0 to $9M+ 7410 Little Lane, Naples, FL 34105 | 239-842-2558 | MooringsPark.org
ELLIOTT KATZ LECTURE FALL SERIES
Guest speakers, book festival and more …
Co-sponsored by
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
November 1: Maybe Joe was Right
Sen. Joseph McCarthy was pilloried and censured for accusing the US government and the US Army of harboring and protecting Communist Party members in their employ. His attorney, Roy Cohn, a controversial figure in his own right, became the central figure in a nationwide television drama, defending the Senator and generating a ratings bonanza for the TV networks. Years later it was discovered, that maybe Sen. McCarthy was right. You decide.
November 8: The Fugu Plan
Why did Imperial Japan, Nazi Germany’s closest ally in WWII, engage in a scheme to save Europe’s persecuted and threatened Jews? In the face of repeated demands by Germany, Japan refused to stop welcoming Jews into Shanghai and adamantly objected to Germany’s requests to dispose of the Jews already there. Was it possible a poisonous fish was involved? Let’s go fishing.
November 15: Poor Coco Chanel*
Coco Chanel was a fashion icon and the inspiration for the world’s most desirous perfume, Chanel #5. She was also a virulent anti-semite, a Nazi collaborator and a perfumer who never reaped the benefit of her most famous essence. She died alone, angry and not very rich, all because of a jilted lover, who became one of the richest men in the world. Meet them all.
December 6: The President Who Ignored the Constitution
Never before and never since have 100,000 American citizens been illegally, unlawfully and cruelly, forcibly incarcerated in American internment camps, solely because of their ethnicity. Executive Order 9066 enabled this to happen. What President of United States signed this order and why? You will surely be surprised.
December 13: The American Banker Who Financed Germany’s War and Mass Murder
As allied soldiers perished in the jungles of the Pacific and on the beaches of Europe, one of America’s most prominent bankers made sure that Nazi Germany had the necessary funds to continue to wage war in Europe and conduct its persecution and murder of tens of millions of innocents. Suspected of treason, he nonetheless escaped punishment and flourished in post-World War II America. One of the best kept secrets of World War II.
December 20: The Shush-Shush Jews
Beginning in 1933 the rise of Nazism foretold only disaster for European Jewry. In the United States, influential Jews had a choice to make. Do all that they could to save their brethren from the clutches of Adolf Hitler and his collaborators or remain silent, not willing to risk their positions or reputations. Their silence would result in the American administration willfully failing to open the doors to America to hundreds of thousands of qualified immigrants who would eventually perish. We call them, the shush shush Jews.
DETAILS AND TICKETS
WHERE: Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center 4720 Pine Ridge Rd .
WHEN: November 1, 8 & 15 and December 6, 13, & 20, 2024 | Fridays from 10-11:30 am *November15only,9:45-11:15am
COST: Series of 6 lectures at $145 pp or $30 individual ticket
PURCHASE SERIES OR INDIVIDUAL TICKETS AT WWW.JEWISHNAPLES.ORG.
Tickets can be purchased at the door if seats are available.
Reneé Bialek Program Director
Afew November programs being offered at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center include: selfdefense classes for women; Senior Housing Solutions presentation; Elliott Katz Lectures; Israel Speaker Series; JeWel Society program; Sell your gold, diamonds, silver and jewelry event; Intro to Belly Dance; How to Cope with the Loss of a Pet; Grandparents and parents of children with special needs conversation; art classes; Ikebana flower arranging class; and coed ping pong.
Upcoming events
• Ambassador Ido Aronoff will speak on “Israel at Crossroads post Oct. 7.” Sunday, Nov. 3 at 3 p.m.
• Join us Sunday, Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist for the
Kristallnacht Commemoration program.
• The Jewish Book Festival’s opening event is on Monday, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m.
• Nashville Songwriter Bryan Ruby will be here on Thursday, Dec. 19 at 6 p.m.
• Chanukah Celebration at Mercato Thursday, Dec. 26 from 5 to 6 p.m. You can register or purchase tickets on our website. The QR code with this article will take you directly to the Programs & Events webpage. Just open your camera app, point directly at the QR code, then click on ‘qrco.de’ button. On the landing page you will see featured events, then “Series of Events,” followed by a few more upcoming events listed by dates. Please be sure to read our weekly Monday e-blast to view new programs and click on the registration links. If you aren’t receiving our weekly Monday e-blast, please email me at rbialek@ jewishnaples.org.
Dates and times of upcoming events are announced on our website homepage. Please register for all events at www.jewish naples.org.
Oil on canvas art classes with Lee Kaye
By Reneé Bialek, Program Director
Have you always wanted to be a proficient oil-on-canvaspainter? These Monday afternoon classes are your chance to learn how or to improve your skills with instructor Lee Kaye.
An accomplished artist for many years, Kaye started her art career while attending Boston Public Schools and continued her art studies at the Boston Museum of Art. She has been a volunteer at The von Liebig Art Center and was a featured artist in Naples magazine. She has shown and sold her oil paintings during juried art shows in Naples and has won prizes at shows in Massachusetts.
Classes continue to be held on Mondays from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost is $40 per 2-hour session*
Bring a favorite photo to copy onto canvas as well as the following supplies: copal medium (buy on Amazon); Palette paper pad; turpentine; paper towels; paint brushes; oil paints (yellow ochre, white, Paynes grey, crimson, blue, green, burnt umber); and table easel. All other supplies can be purchased at Michael’s Art Store. *a portion of the fee for these classes will be donated to Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Register for one or all classes at https:// JFGN.regfox.com/art-with-lee-nov-dec.
Become a patron of the Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival
By Robin Mintz, Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival Chairperson
The 10th Annual Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival — Ten for 10 — begins in only one month. And what an exciting festival it will be!
The opening event will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9 at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. Did you ever wonder what it was like to grow up as the son of a television icon? Adam Nimoy, author of “The Most Human: Reconciling with My Father, Leonard Nimoy,” will share his experience as the son of Star Trek’s Mr. Spock. As Adam will tell us, it was often a challenge.
We anticipate a sellout — but don’t worry, there is still time to become a Patron of the Jewish Book Festival and be guaranteed a seat.
Being a Patron of the Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival is certainly a winwin! Not only are you assured entry to each of the 10 book festival events, it also enables us to bring an outstanding array of authors to Naples. Including this year’s festival, 182 authors will have presented at 129 events during our 10 years of
festivals. In addition, money raised helps our Federation to fulfill its mission of building a vibrant Jewish community in Greater Naples and supporting the social service needs of the Jewish people in our community, in North America, in Israel and around the world.
There are three levels of Patron: Platinum at $500, Silver at $250 and Bronze at $136.
Why should I become a Patron?
In addition to knowing that your financial support is integral to the success of the Jewish Book Festival as well as helping our Federation to help others, Patrons receive several other benefits. You will be
pre-registered for each event; you simply sign up once. All Patrons will be acknowledged in the Federation Star and on the Jewish Book Festival webpage. Unlike everyone else, Patrons won’t have to individually register for each event.
Platinum Patrons will be given preferred reserved seating at all events.
Silver Patrons will have reserved seating at all events.
Bronze Patrons receive significant savings in purchasing entry to all of the events in the festival.
How do I become a Patron?
Simply check the appropriate box on the JBF Registration Form on JewishBook Festival.org. A link to the registration form is also in many of Federation’s Monday e-blasts. It’s that easy!
If you are not already a Patron, I hope that you will consider becoming one for the 2024-25 Jewish Book Festival.
The Book Festival Committee, a cadre of dedicated volunteers, along with Reneé Bialek and myself look forward to welcoming you to the Book Festival Kickoff on Dec. 9 at 7 p.m.
Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival Opening Event featuring Adam Nimoy, author of “The Most Human: Reconciling with My Father, Leonard Nimoy,” will share his experience as the son of Star Trek’s Mr. Spock.
When: Monday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m. Where: Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center
Guarantee your seat by becoming a Patron today! JewishBookFestival.org
A grandparent's love Nurturing resilience
By Meredith Conte
Every life is unique and deserves to be remembered in a special way. The professionals at Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens are dedicated to helping
you and your loved ones honor the heritage of the Jewish faith with a meaningful memorial that truly captures the essence of the life it represents.
We offer our deepest gratitude for giving us the opportunity to assist you through one of the most challenging times in life, and for allowing us to earn and keep your trust.
The stress levels only rise for parents of special needs children. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates nearly 4.5% of children under 18 have some type of disability, and in 2023, the Center for Disease Control shared that 1 in 36 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) — up from 1 in 150 in the year 2000. Numbers like these continue to rise thanks to new diagnostic tools, increased awareness and changes in reporting.
The role of grandparents in families with special needs children cannot be underestimated.
As a parent of children with special needs, I can’t underscore enough how valuable it is for grandparents to be involved. While there will always be some level of a “I can do it myself” mindset, the truth is that today’s parents can’t do it all. It’s just not feasible given current societal norms and expectations.
“Grandparents often provide a sense of security and unconditional love. Their presence can allow their grandchildren to feel emotionally grounded, especially during challenging times. Grandparents play a pivotal role and contribute significantly to the social and emotional growth of their grandchildren,” shares Susan Abrams, speech pathologist of The Social Coach.
As a grandparent, if you are unsure of how to be engaged, just ask. Consider asking your adult children, “What might be the best way to support you?” or “Is there anything I can do that won’t make the situation worse?” Allow your children the time and space to consider your questions and come back to you with thoughtful answers. Let’s come together to discuss emotional support, financial support, and social and recreational involvement. Join us at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 10 a.m. Please register for this free program at www.jewishnaples.org.
Families learn skills to help children manage antisemitism in school
By Lisa Koppel, JCRC Chair
On Sept. 8, our community came together at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and learned several important messages about managing the growing antisemitism in our schools and online. This event followed many discussions among Federation members as we all realized that the Naples Jewish community needed greater access to resources about antisemitism as well as more opportunities to discuss these issues together.
We all realize that antisemitism and anti-Zionism have become increasingly prevalent, particularly on college campuses, since Oct. 7. Erica Hruby, a facilitator, coach, consultant and senior manager for national teen education and engagement with The Jewish Education Project, came to Naples to guide our families through this difficult time.
She presented ways to help parents better support their children amid the surge in anti-Jewish harassment, vandalism and assault. Children as young as elementaryschool-age may encounter such issues, and it is crucial for parents and grandparents to be prepared and informed on how to handle these situations. Hruby reminded
us that we need to partner with our schools to prepare and prevent these situations.
By bringing Hruby to Naples, we gained more knowledge about what antisemitism looks like for our schoolaged children, from memes on social media to the language that other children use against our children. The attendees also learned that teenagers across the U.S. want to hear more about Israel and what it feels like to live with Palestinian neighbors.
Hruby helped us see that finding ways to keep children informed and answer their questions will help them manage antisemitic comments thrown at them. Keeping our kids informed also means helping them learn about all of the people in Israel so that they actually learn about Palestinians and Israelis.
Thank you to all of our in-person and online attendees who now feel much more informed and better equipped to talk to their children about these challenges. For resources on how to talk to your child about antisemitism, visit https:// link.edgepilot.com/s/31db887f/Q5D za2UBk0SKlo_adh-Abg?u=http:// www.adl.org/.
Take Preventative Measures Now Before Pests Invade For The Holidays
by Anna Wallace, Truly Nolen
With the holiday season on the horizon, there remains plenty of time to finish grocery shopping and food prep before friends and family arrive to celebrate together in November, December, and January. Meanwhile, insects and rodents often enjoy seizing the opportunity to make themselves known once your guests have gone home. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help keep these pests from ruining your upcoming holiday season.
Cockroaches are one pest that often comes out during the holiday season. They are nocturnal and remain in the dark whenever possible, only emerging to search for water and food. Large infestations should be suspected when cockroaches are seen in the open or in the light during the day. These uninvited insects require three things: water, food, and warm shelter.
Meanwhile, ants will eat practically any kind of food, but are especially attracted to sweets as they supply a large amount of energy to the relatively small ants. While most ants are considered harmless, an ant infestation can be a major nuisance and may be difficult to control. When ants find a food source is in your home, you can count on them quickly entering your home through the smallest cracks and crevices.
Rodents such as mice are often common household pets, but in the wild they can become very bother-
some household pests. They can sneak into homes through a hole about the size of a dime in order to find food or shelter from their natural outdoor habitats.
Once inside, mice make their homes in quite spaces out of spare materials, such as string and insulation. After entering your home, their diet consists of any spare food, but in nature they typically eat grains, seeds and sweets. Mice do not need to regularly drink water because they obtain it from the moisture in their food.
Because all three of these pests are looking for food in your home, there are definitely some ways to prevent an outbreak before you may need a pest control professional. These ways include eliminating water (do not let water stand in sinks and eliminate outside collection areas), eliminating food sources (dispose garbage as soon as possible following your meal, pack leftovers properly, and wipe off counter tops often), and eliminate harborages (discard unnecessary cardboard boxes and pull mulch away from your home).
Ultimately, in the event of a major infestation, a pest control professional can help with actual exclusion techniques to block off and seal possible entryways especially for ants and rodents.
It is important to determine and handle pest issues regularly along with taking preventative measures rather than waiting for a pest infestation to occur to act. In fact, keeping up with year-round pest control is one of the most important things a homeowner can do.
Most companies, including ours, offer a FREE pest inspection to determine what type of pest problem you may have. Hopefully, your preventative measures will help you stave off even larger problems this holiday season!
(Anna Wallace is the Manager for Truly Nolen in Naples. Her 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 more about Spiders and some ways to keep them at bay, please visit https://www.trulynolen.com/pest-control/spiders/.)
CHANUKAH CELEBRATION
Thursday, December 26
5:00-6:00
undermines that country’s wartime image as a nation of benign captors and rekindles memories of heroic Italian individuals.
Dr. Ruthenberg will focus on Italy’s and Italians’ responses to key moments in its history prior to, during and immediately following World War II. We will ponder the reception of fascism’s politics by the establishment and the common people alike, especially following the promulgation of Mussolini’s racial laws.
literature and culture and as an invited member of the Jewish studies faculty.
In that context, the role of the resistance, as well as that of the church-atlarge and of convents and monasteries in particular, cannot be ignored. Historical, literary and cinematic texts will be used to illustrate this talk. We shall conclude with a few personal anecdotes and photographs.
About the speaker
Dr. Myriam Swennen Ruthenberg is professor emerita of Italian and Comparative Literature at Florida Atlantic University
Part 2: Free tours of the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Educational Center on Jan. 27.
Part 3: Showing of the film "My Italian Secret: The Forgotten Heroes." The film will be shown Monday, Jan. 27 at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center at 6:45 p.m. ($5 donation)
Registration for these events opens in December.
Join the Beading for Betterment project!
By Carol Hirsch
For several years, the Beading for Betterment project has provided special custom-made necklaces to children at the Guadalupe Center in Immokalee so that they have a Mother’s Day gift to give to their mother, grandmother or special woman in their life. Necklaces have also been distributed to children who participate in Jewish Federation of Greater Naples’ Shop with a Sheriff event for Christmas.
Whether you are an experienced “beader” or have never made a beaded necklace, please join the group for a fun beading session. All are welcome.
There will be free sessions from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. (*12:30 to 3 p.m. on Friday) at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, 4720 Pine Ridge Road, on the following dates:
• Thursday, Nov. 7
• Thursday, Nov. 14
• Thursday, Dec. 12
• Thursday, Dec. 19
• *Friday, Jan. 24
• Thursday, Feb. 6
• Wednesday, Feb. 19
• Wednesday, March 12
• Tuesday, March 25
• Thursday, April 17
Come to one or come to all! If you have your own supplies, please bring them. If not, supplies will be provided and only a donation will be requested so that more supplies can be purchased.
For more information, contact Carol Hirsch at chirsch1951@gmail.com. This program is sponsored by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and Temple Shalom.
Herbs for your health with Cathy’s Herbs and Botanicals
By Reneé Bialek, Program Director
Herbalist Cathy Via will talk about healthy organic herbs, spices and teas and how to incorporate them into everyday life. For 20 years, Via has been a regular presenter at Collier County Friends of the Library Program and a certified organic supplier of herbs, spices and teas at local farmers markets. Join us for this free program at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center on
Thursday, Nov. 7 from 3 to 4:15 p.m. Please register at jewishnaples.org.
Organic herbs, spices, teas and superfood products will be available for purchase after the presentation.
This program is cosponsored by Sisterhood of Naples Jewish Congregation and Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.
Attorney Amanda Dorio has represented clients from the Naples community for nearly 20 years. She works with her clients in estate planning, trust administration and wills, and guardianship. Amanda uses understanding, compassion and experience to help with the community’s legal
– just as we’ve done since 1924.
November events with PJ Library
By Amber Ferren, PJ Library Coordinator
Ihope you enjoyed our October events, and I am looking forward to November with you all!
This month, we will have a special Italian dinner and wine tasting for
our Jewish mom friends on Sunday, Nov. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. To register or obtain more information, please email programs@jewishnaples.org.
Please join us on Nov. 10 from 1 to 2 p.m. at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples for a Thanksgiving celebration with the kids! Feel free to bring grandparents and anyone you may be thankful for who would like to attend!
Nashville singer coming to Naples
Singer/songwriter Bryan Ruby joins us again on Dec. 19
By Reneé Bialek, Program Director
"There’ssomething deeply magical about the art of songwriting, especially when you’re in the room witnessing it unfold. It’s a moment of pure creation — an intimate blend of raw emotion, spontaneous ideas and artistic collaboration.
“Watching a song take shape from a fleeting melody or a simple lyric is like seeing a spark ignite into a flame. Being behind the scenes in the recording studio with stars offers a unique vantage point — you get to witness the synergy among artists, producers and musicians as they shape personal stories into greater beings that will resonate with the world. It’s an extraordinary process where creativity meets craft, and you feel the energy in the room shift as a song begins to come alive.
January 30 February 13 March 20 April May 15 June
“There’s a sense of being part of something bigger, watching a song grow from its initial concept into a piece of art that will inspire others. Each session holds its own magic, and the privilege of being there to observe the making of music is something truly special.
“Join me on Thursday, Dec. 19 as I take you into a world of country and pop music stars, pull back the curtain, and share the beautiful joy that is songwriting." – Nashville hit songwriter Bryan Ruby
Please join us at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center on Thursday, Dec. 19 at 6 p.m. This concert is family friendly. Tickets ($18) can be purchased at jewish naples.org, or directly at this link, https://jfgn.regfox.com/bryan-rubyin-concert.
Please be sure to follow PJ Library –Federation of Greater Naples on Facebook for upcoming events and up-to-date info on all things local for PJ Library.
Inspiring Women
All events will be at: “Can U Dig It” Playground at North Collier Regional Park 3pm - 4pm To register visit: facebook.com/PJLibraryNaplesFL
Hadassah is proud to recognize and honor women whose leadership skills, dedication, experience, generosity, and time make a difference in their organizations, businesses, our communities and the quality of our lives.
Join us to celebrate their accomplishments and support Hadassah’s new Gandel Rehabilitation Center, Mt. Scopus, Jerusalem.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2025 at 11 am
AUDUBON COUNTRY CLUB 625 Audubon Boulevard, Naples
For information contact: collierleehadassah@gmail.com
OF GREATER NAPLES
Israel and Overseas 2024-2025 SPEAKER SERIES
Topic: Israel at Crossroads Post October 7
Sunday, November 3 at 3:00 pm NOV 2024
FEB 2025
Ofer Bavly
Topic: Uplifting the Marginalized Israeli Druze Minority
February date TBD
Eid DEC 2024
Topic: What Led the Recent War between Israel and Hamas
Wednesday, December 18 at 2 pm
MARCH 2025
Akiba Covitz
Topic: The Legal Foundation of Israel’s Right to Exist
Wednesday, March 12 at 4:00 pm
JAN 2025
Peter Geffen
Topic: The Magical Story of Moroccan MuslimJewish coexistence
Tuesday, Jan 21 at 4 pm
APRIL 2025
Dina Kraft
Topic: Post-October 7th: Stories of Healing, Resilience, and Resistance
Wednesday, April 9 at 1:00 pm
ISRAEL SCOUTS IN THE SUMMER
All events will take place at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center Buy individual tickets at $18 or become a Patron. Patron Levels: Diamond, Gold and Silver.
TICKETS: WWW.JEWISHNAPLES.ORG
Become an IOC Patron for 2024-2025
DIAMOND (Yahalom) PATRON
benefits ($500 per person):
• Guaranteed admission to all IOC events.
• Preferred seating at all events.
• Invitation to attend receptions with the speakers.
• Acknowledgement at the event
• The heartwarming feeling that you are supporting the Israel and Overseas Committee above and beyond the cost of event admission.
GOLD (Zahav) PATRON benefits ($250 per person):
• Guaranteed admission to all IOC events.
• Reserved seating at all events.
• Invitation to attend 2 receptions with the speakers.
• Acknowledgement at the event
• The heartwarming feeling that you are supporting the Israel and Overseas Committee above and beyond the cost of event admission.
SILVER (Kesef)
PATRON benefits ($136 per person):
• Guaranteed admission to all IOC events.
• Acknowledgement at the event
• The heartwarming feeling that you are supporting the Israel and Overseas Committee above and beyond the cost of event admission.
Ido Aharoni Aronoff
Bassem
Jewish unity through song with Alta Rockers
By Felicia Anchor, Program Committee Member
Alta Rockers shine a light on Jewish singer-songwriters for all to savor. This year’s community-wide singalong will feature extraordinary songs from Jewish singer-songwriters. Many will be familiar but for some the MOT connection may pleasantly surprise you too. (MOT is Members Of the Tribe).
Alta Rockers is a group of vintage men who find fellowship playing music from their youth. Comprising nine guitars, a harmonica and a banjitar, they come together weekly to play, sing, improvise and laugh. Over the past eight years, playing for Jewish and other nonprofits, the experience has become extremely meaningful to all involved.
Alta Rockers pride themselves on curating a growing song catalog that encompasses several musical genres. Members are Founder Don Belmont, Ken Anchor, Ken Brown, Harry Chertok,
Please join us for an engaging singalong for the entire family on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, 4:30 p.m. at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. Words will be displayed to enhance participation. Free admission. Please register at jewishnaples.org so we can plan accordingly.
Bring your gold and the items you wish to sell to Jewish Federation of Greater Naples during either event listed below:
• Wednesday, Nov. 20, 11 a.m.4:30 p.m.
• Thursday, Nov. 21, 11 a.m.4:30 p.m.
Please register for the exact date and time at www.jewishnaples.org or directly at https://jfgn.regfox.com/ sell-gold-and-silver.
In addition to top prices paid out to the members, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples will receive an additional generous percentage of the proceeds.
Buzz Cohn, Andy Ichel, Larry Israelite, Sam Miller, Frank Muller, Randy Solomon and Alex Wertheim.
New and exciting things happening at JYP Naples
By Cayla Schreier, JYP Coordinator
September has come and gone, but JYP Naples members were able to create some fun memories. Three of our JYP Naples members attended the KSpace Shabbaton in Marco Island between Sept. 6-8. Our friends had a great time meeting other young Jewish singles and enjoying a nice time in Marco Island.
One of our members, Spencer, hosted Shabbat dinner on Friday, Sept. 27. Everyone had a wonderful time welcoming Shabbat and eating dinner together, where we were able to relax and catch up with one another.
On Saturday, Sept. 28, we went to Escapades Escape Rooms located in Fort Myers. My goal was to incorporate teamwork, collaboration and bonding amongst the local Jewish Young Professionals. I believe it’s important to work as a team and stick together to accomplish goals and solve problems, especially with the recent rise in antisemitism and the horrific attack in Israel on Oct. 7. Additionally, some of our JYP members went to Dixie Roadhouse located in Cape Coral after going to the escape rooms. We danced the night away with drinks and country music and even learned some line dances.
Future events
Details about upcoming events will be distributed via email and the Facebook group chat. Please reach out to Renee (rbialek@jewishnaples. org) if you would like to be added to those group communications. We also have a Google form for
members to fill out to receive members’ feedback and ideas on what type of JYP events they would like to see in the future.
I look forward to seeing everyone soon!
Jewish Young Professionals of Naples wishes everyone a happy, healthy and sweet New Year 5785. We hope everyone can celebrate the New Year with family and friends.
Are you ready for the new season? WCA is!
By Susan Pittelman, WCA Publicity Coordinator
Season will soon be underway and there is a great deal for you to look forward to. The WCA Board of Directors, working closely with our huge cadre of dedicated and energetic volunteers, has planned a wide variety of special events and programs for you to enjoy. Our signature Speakers Series has kicked off, and we are all looking forward to the popular WCA Welcome Back Lunch.
Have you signed up for WCA interest groups yet? While some of them continued to meet during the summer, others are just starting up again. With nearly 55 interest groups, there is something for everyone! Whether you are interested in the Foodies or in reading books, plays or magazine articles, there is a group for you.
Like to play bridge? Mah Jongg? Scrabble? Canasta? If you prefer more physical activities, we have golf, pickleball, chair yoga, biking, ping pong and bowling. There are also interest groups for films, languages, stitching, singing, trivia and so much more!
A complete list of interest groups is on our website, wcanaples.org. Look under “Groups” on the menu bar. The first page under “Groups” has general info, whereas the second page (which is for members only) contains information about how to contact the liaison to join a group. Sign right up! Just follow the instructions on the website.
On Jan. 6, WCA will be having an “Interest Group Fair” to showcase the wide variety of groups that have been formed in response to the various interests of our membership. You will also have an opportunity to learn more about NextGen, WCA North, WCA South and our summer branches.
In addition to the (very impressive!) highlighted list of special events on this page, WCA has scheduled many other activities
and programs, including art museum and gallery tours, destination adventures, New Member Coffees, Cocktails and Conversations, Koffee Klatches, art classes, Ladies Who Lunch, TED Talks and our International Potluck. (The dates of these are viewable to members on the website. Click on “Events” and then on “Special Events” to see the events and date of each. Mark them in your calendar so you don’t miss out!)
As each event approaches, the weekly WCA e-newsletter will include a description of the event as well as registration information. The newsletter, however, is sent only to current members, so if you have not yet renewed your membership — or you’ve never joined WCA — you
Volunteers welcomed 24 agencies and more than 100 attendees to the 2024 WCA Volunteer Expo; this season, the expo will be on Feb. 11, 2025.
will not receive it. Only current WCA members can register for WCA events. So, go to the WCA website and join today. As you can see, WCA is well prepared for the 2024-25 season. The rest is up to you.
•
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NextGen members greatly enjoyed the WCA Chanukah Dinner Dance; this season, it will be Dec. 12. Mah Jongg Day is a favorite event of many WCA members; this season, it will be Jan. 22, 2025.
As we approach this season of thanksgiving, the WCA Board of Directors thanks each of you for your support of WCA. Happy Thanksgiving! The 2024-25 WCA Season is filled with exciting programs and special events. Don’t Miss Out!
WCA members modeled beautiful fashions at last year’s Fashion Show; this season’s event will be Feb. 26., 2025.
Join Loris Dallal for Ikebana
The ancient art of Japanese flower arranging
By Reneé Bialek, Program Director
Unlock the art of Sogetsu Ikebana — a transformative floral design experience — by joining our exclusive class, and discover the elegance and creativity of this renowned Japanese floral arrangement style!
Loris Dallal, a master in this field with over 40 years of experience, has taught in many places around the world. Now she’s coming to the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center Thursday, Nov. 21 at 2 p.m. to spark a light within others.
In this class, you will dive into the principles and philosophy that define this unique approach to floral design; master key techniques, from basic arrangements to innovative, free-form designs that push the boundaries of traditional ikebana; explore how to use line, balance and harmony to create stunning and meaningful arrangements; and learn to express creativity while respecting the traditional elements of Sogetsu Ikebana. Let your creativity blossom! Register online at jewishnaples.org ($15 per person).
By Michael Sobol
Trip to Arthrex
Pickleball
First Board of Directors
Budding artists
Trip to Shy Wolf
Trip to sugar fields
Paintball
Biking
Y
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Southwest Florida’s only comprehensive breas t heal th program is proud t o announce t he addi t ion of Breast Su rgeon Dav id T Ro ck , MD , FAC S.,
who will be located in our new Bonita Springs location.
Ne w lo cat ion : 24040 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 202, B oni ta S prings , F L 3413 4
Dr. Rock is just one of the world-class physicians in our uniquely qualified team of board-certified breast surgeons.
Prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship of breast diseases Dr. Patterson | Dr. Mai
The Most Human
by Adam Nimoy
Monday, December 9, 2024
7:00 PM • $25
Peek behind the curtain at a childhood growing up with an entertainment icon to discover how the son of Spock learned to navigate his tumultuous relationship with his father — from Shabbat dinners to basement AA meetings — and how he was finally able to reconcile with his father as well as with himself.
Exclusively Sponsored by Ginsberg Eye
The Art of Diplomacy
by Stuart E. Eizenstat
Friday, January 10, 2025 1:00 PM • $25
Based on interviews with more than 60 key figures in American diplomacy, former U.S. Ambassador to the European Union and negotiator Stuart E. Eizenstat’s book covers every major contemporary international agreement, from the treaty to end the Vietnam war to the Kyoto Protocols and the Iranian Nuclear Accord.
The Goddess of Warsaw
by Lisa Barr
Tuesday, January 21, 2025 1:00 PM • $25
A New York Times bestselling author, Lisa Barr’s historical thriller is an enthralling tale of a legendary Hollywood screen goddess with a dark secret about her life in the Warsaw Ghetto. When threatened by someone from her past, she puts her skills into play.
Thank You To Our Sponsors
When
Women Ran Fifth Avenue
by Julie Satow
Wednesday, January 29, 2025 1:00 PM • $25
A glittering portrait of the golden age of American department stores and of three visionary women who took great risks to lead them. Rich with personal drama and trade secrets, Satow’s New York Times bestseller captures the department store in all its glitz, decadence and fun.
Exclusively Sponsored by Women's Cultural Alliance
The Sequel
by Jean Hanff Korelitz
Thursday, February 13, 2025 1:00 PM • $25
Anna Williams-Bonner has laid to rest the anonymous accusations of plagiarism that tormented her novelist husband and is now living the contented life of a literary widow. But again, a work of fiction intercedes. Korelitz, New York Times best-selling author of "The Plot," gives us an antihero to root for while satirizing the world of publishing in this fun, yet suspenseful, read.
Venues
Naples Conference Center: 1455 Pine Ridge Road, Naples
Visit the official Festival website at www.jewishbookfestival.org for more information on the
Consider
Tickets ARE Transferable
you can’t make it to all 12 events, you can gift your tickets to friends, colleagues and family members.
Multi-Author Events
For the events with more than one author, due to travel arrangements, the order in which they present will be decided a few days prior to their event. If you’d
Naples Jewish Book Festival
your in-person enjoyment. becoming a patron or to purchase individual tickets.
events take place at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center
Food, Hope & Resilience
by June Hersh
Tuesday, February 25, 2025
10:30 AM • $25
This vital collection features more than 100 stories and 125 recipes gathered from interviews with Holocaust survivors. Their stories are uplifting and life-affirming, and their recipes are as diverse as the survivor community. From semolina gnocchi to arroz con pollo, you will discover the full breadth of global Jewish food.
Phyllis Barolsky
Baum
Berkowitz
Harriet Berneman
Blaskey
Blaskey
Cipora Brown
Cowen
David
Barbara Druckman
Spencer Forman
Louise Forman
Robert Gage
Patricia Gage
Garelick
Nancy Garfinkel
Priscilla Gerber
Barbara Girard
Jan Goldman
Carole Greene
Natalie Greene
Sherry Greenfield
Ronna Hain
Carol Hirsch
Susan Horowitz
Judy Isserlis
Bobbie Katz
Helene Koenig
Deborah Kohler
Toby Kosloff
Debbie Laites
Judi Lazan
Lynn Lazar
Dale Lazar
Dana Lefkowitz
Marci Margolis
Susan McDonough
Frederick Osgood
Marla Osgood
Jeani Park
Steven Podolsky
Ben Post
Mae Riefberg
The Boy with the Star Tattoo
by Talia Carner
Monday, March 10, 2025
3:30 PM • $25
An epic historical novel of ingenuity and courage, of love and loss, by master storyteller
Talia Carner. This rich tale spans post-war France when Israeli agents roamed the countryside to rescue hidden Jewish orphans – to the 1969 daring escape of the Israeli boats of Cherbourg in Normandy.
JBF Patrons
Barbara Ross
Arnold Sameroff
Susan Schaffer
Jane Schiff
Anne Schnesel
Harriet Schweitzer
Mark Shiffman
Anita Siegal
Cathy Silver
Gail
Smith
Carol Smoler
Arlene Sobol
Elaine Soffer
Susan Sokolov
Sharon Stein
Estelle Tauch
Fritzi Thorner
Heidi Thorner
Joyce Toub
Allison Tucker
Linda Wainick
Ferne Walpert
Jay Weintraub
Laurie Weiss
Leona Wreschner
The Money Kings
by Daniel Schulman
Friday, March 21, 2025
1:00 PM • $25
The incredible saga of America’s great Jewish banking families—among them, the Lehmans, the Sachs, and the Goldmans. Rich in both historical detail and as a character study, Schulman chronicles the fascinating details of how these determined men balanced their identities as Jews, bankers, Germans and Americans to make their marks and their fortunes on Wall Street.
We Must Not Think of Ourselves
by Lauren Grodstein
Thursday, March 27, 2025
10:30 AM • $25
In this heart-wrenching story of defiance, prisoner Adam Paskow, a middle-aged nonobservant professor, takes testimonies to keep the stories of the Warsaw Ghetto's residents alive. Grodstein reveals that love may be found even in the starkest of situations. [Inspired by the testimony-gathering project with the code name Oneg Shabbat.]
The Joy of Costco
by David & Susan Schwartz
Wednesday, April 2, 2025
1:00 PM • $25
David & Susan Schwartz are two of Costco's biggest fans. Since 2016, they have visited more than 225 of Costco's 850+ warehouses in the US and in 13 countries. Topics from Cashews and Chicken to Hot Dogs and Hawaii are covered in a whimsical A to Z format. Fun Fact: Costco sells more than half of the world's cashews.
Anonymous
Leslie Aderson
Sheryl Affrime
Nancy Armocida
Diane Aronson
Wendy Avner
Patti Badiner
Lea Bendes
Minda Bernberg
Rose Bernstein
Jill Binder
Jamie Blatter
Patti Boochever
Tim Broms
Peggy Brown
Deena Caplan
Jeanie Charness
Nan Ciralsky
Diane Clarke
Geri Cohen
Dorothy Collens
Marilyn Davidson
Gayle Dorio
Marty Dorio
Larry DuKatz
Linda DuKatz
Janett Edelberg
Susan Elfman
Sally Ann Endleman
Leslie Feldman
Rosetta Felzer
Susan Feuerman
Nancy Garfien
Phyllis Garon
Ken Getnick
Molly Getnick
Heidi Gilbert
Howard Gilbert
Renee Glickman
Mark Goetz
Donna Goldstein
Lenore Greenstein
Hannah Goodman
Rochelle Goodman
Barrie Graham
Arlene Griff
Jean Haven
Byrl Hendler
Sarah Hendler
Lee Henson
Deborah Hermalyn
Linda Hirsch
Ronna Hochman
Judy Kargher
Jackie Kerlek
Charlene Kerner
Harriett Kleinman
Susan Koeppel
Karen Kolodny
Sayde Ladov
Harold Lauber
Lisa Lauber
Barb Lefkowitz
Bettye Leibowitz
Judy Leventhal
Arlene Levin
Hilda Levine
Jacqueline Lipton
Debbie Lurie
Phyllis Luts
Elaine Marcus
Ida Margolis
Sheila Mesulam
Linda Miller
Lynn Miller
Alys (Elyse) Morande
Marsha Moranz
Darlene Muller
Mindy Nadell
Helene Naimon
Carol Orloff
Barbara Ostrolenk
Barbara Paganelli
Joel Pittelman
Terri Polacheck
Sue Reiver
Ellen Rodwick
William Rodwick
Midge Rozen
Linda Russell
Lanie Samuels
Laurie Sandler
Sandra Sanfilippo
Maureen Schaab
Dorothy Schwebel
Jane Shaw
Dina Shein
Ricki Shine
Julie Shlensky
Michael Shlensky
Iris Shur
Linda Simon
Rosalie Slansky
Ruth Smon
Harold Stein
Jennie Stein
Barbara Suden
Denise Sultan
Ann Swartz
Shira Swartz
Marla Taub
Joan Van Berg
Ann Varsano
Joan Vazakas
Lisa Vogel
Sara Waldstein
Ellie Wasserman
Leslie Wasserman
Marianne Wassmer
Sydelle Weinberger
Suellen Weiner
Ellen Weisberg
Joan Werhane
Jack Wiadro
Nancy Wiadro
Susan Yale
Steven Yussen
Suzann Yussen
Cathy Zacks
Joni Zalasky
At the Museum
ASusan Suarez President & CEO
s I write this, thousands of people are dealing with the incredible devastation wrought by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. And unfortunately, some of our neighbors also continue to recover from Hurricane Ian that struck two years ago. Our thoughts are with them all.
I recently shared that I will be retiring from the Museum on March 14, 2025. It has been my honor to serve as president and CEO, and I am thrilled with all we have accomplished together. Between now and March, my team and I will be busy with an exciting season of programs, exhibits and special events planned for you. It will be one of our best seasons ever!
We kicked off the year with our annual Volunteer Welcome Back event. If you’d like more information about our volunteer opportunities, please visit hmcec.org.
Movies That Matter
Our next Movies That Matter Zoom panel discussion on Nov. 6 will feature diabetes and the high cost of treatment. The documentary “Pay or Die” looks at this insidious disease and the financial and emotional costs. You can watch the film online at your convenience or attend
a “Watch Party” at the Museum prior to the Zoom discussion. Reservations are required to receive the film viewing, Zoom links and to attend the “Watch Party.” Please visit hmcec.org to RSVP.
Kristallnacht Commemoration
This year’s community Kristallnacht Commemoration presented by the Catholic Jewish Dialogue will take place Sunday, Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church in Naples. All are welcome.
Education department news
Our education department was invited by Collier County Public Schools administration to participate in an educator workshop for social studies teachers, grades 6-10. We were grateful for this wonderful opportunity to meet and brief 75 current and new teachers on our Holocaust education programs. We discussed the various options available on campus and at the Museum to help them meet Florida’s Holocaust education mandate.
When students and teachers tour the Museum this school year, newly created interactive activities will help them engage with the history and lessons of the Holocaust. You should see how our classroom becomes a hive of activity as they dive into these interesting projects!
We are pleased to again welcome GenShoah SWFL members as education program partners. By sharing their families’ personal stories of the Holocaust, they provide students and teachers a unique perspective that brings history alive. Members also continue to contribute short stories about family Holocaust experiences to the “Portraits of Remembrance” project, used in our Holocaust education programs with middle school students. If you are a child or grandchild of survivors and are interested in more information, please contact Education Specialist David Nelson at David@hmcec.org.
If you are a parent or grandparent with K-12 student in a Southwest Florida school, you can help promote Holocaust education by letting the principal and teachers know about the Museum’s free
from one of his constituents, American Legion Post 38 in Fort Myers. The Post has permanently loaned the Museum a special artifact — the Nordhausen Flag, created by newly liberated survivors and presented to the GI’s who saved them.
Veterans Day admission
We invite you to join us Sunday, Nov. 10 for complimentary Veterans Day admission. It will be a particularly special day of commemoration for us this year with the Nordhausen Flag on display. Reservations required. Please visit hmcec.org to RSVP.
The Luncheon
Plan to join us at Vineyards Country Club in Naples on Wednesday, Dec. 4 for our annual winter fundraising event. This year’s program will feature “To
programs for schools. Contact David@ hmcec.org, and we can email or mail you a flyer to give to your student’s school.
State Senator visit
Florida State Senator Jonathan Martin recently visited the Museum with his staff. Sen. Martin represents District 33 (Lee County). We have had a strong relationship with the schools in Lee County for many years. We relayed how we present the stories and history of the Holocaust to students. A highlight of his visit was showing him the newest special display on loan
Life,” a multimedia program by speaker Dr. Jud Newborn. Tickets are $200 and sponsorship packages are available. RSVP required. See hmcec.org for information. For more news about what’s happening at the Museum this season, sign up for our monthly e-newsletter on our website. Wishing you and your families a Happy Thanksgiving, and we hope to see you soon at the Museum!
Holocaust Museum & Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen Education Center HMCEC.org • 239-263-9200
Wednesday, December 4, 2024
JOIN US FOR THE LUNCHEON 11:30am - 2:00pm Vineyards Country Club 400 Vineyards Blvd., Naples, FL 34119
Special Guest
Dr. Jud Newborn
Dr. Newborn, Founding Historian, Museum of Jewish Heritage in NYC, and internationallyrecognized scholar, lecturer, and author will present a special multimedia program
Holocaust Museum & Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen Education Ctr. 975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Naples, FL 34110 239-263-9200 hmcec.org info@hmcec.org
Holocaust Museum announces retirement of president & CEO
Board to conduct search for successor
[Naples, FL Sept. 25]
The Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center announced the retirement of Susan Suarez, its President and CEO, effective March 14, 2025. Under her leadership over the past seven years, the Museum has purchased and expanded its facility, enhanced its educational outreach and exhibits, and fostered community engagement. Her dedication to preserving the history of the Holocaust while making it relevant for future generations has earned the Museum awards and recognition.
“Working alongside Susan has been an honor,” said Chair of the Board of Directors Stuart Mest. “Her unwavering commitment to our mission has transformed the Holocaust Museum into a vital resource for education and reflection.
While we will miss her leadership and vision, we are excited to begin the search for our next CEO, who will build upon her remarkable legacy.”
As the Museum prepares for this transition, the board of directors will initiate a comprehensive search process for Suarez’s successor.
“Finding a leader who embodies our commitment to education, remembrance and community is essential,” added Mest. “We are determined to identify a candidate who will inspire and guide the Museum into its next chapter.”
The Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education remains committed to its mission during this transition and encourages continued community involvement and support. Updates regarding the search process will be shared on the museum’s website.
Collier County Public Schools teacher workshop
Baker Senior Center gives back to the community
Dr. Jaclynn Faffer President/ CEO
Baker Senior Center Naples not
One example of this process is our knitting and crocheting group. This group, led by volunteer Judy Zwicker, has been in existence since we opened our doors in January 2014. They knit beautiful shawls for women with breast cancer who are undergoing treatment, blankets
for veterans (in red, white and blue, of course) and caps for babies and cancer survivors. The knitters and crocheters chat — strong friendships have formed — while they work their beautiful magic.
Members who attend our art classes give back while painting bowls for Empty Bowls. As you all know, Empty Bowls raises money by selling beautiful bowls, platters and serving pieces to combat food insecurity in our community.
We, and our members, are so proud to be part of the philanthropic fabric of the Greater Naples area. We invite you to stop by and watch our groups in action!
Plans are well underway for our annual signature fundraising event, “An Evening for Better Tomorrows,” on Jan. 11, 2025. This year, our theme is “Walking on Sunshine,” celebrating the many ways BSCN brings light into the lives of those we serve. It will be an evening of dancing, dining and learning more about what we do for older adults in our community.
Tickets are $750 per person, with sponsorship opportunities available. The event will take place at Royal Poinciana Golf Club. Please check out our website
to purchase tickets and obtain more information: BakerSeniorCenterNaples.org. It is an evening you do not want to miss! Since Thanksgiving is right around the corner, I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you who support Baker Senior Center Naples. Have a safe and wonderful holiday.
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Temple Shalom events open to the community
By Jeanette Fischer, Temple Shalom Director of Communications
Registration is required for all events and programs.
Soulful Shabbat
We welcome guest speaker Benji Lovitt on Friday, Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. Come experience the transformative power of music and spirituality at our Soulful Shabbat
service, a soul-stirring service conducted entirely through the enchanting melodies of Cantor Donna Azu and the Temple Shalom Band.
Book review series
Rabbi Frank Muller presents a series of discussions on the books of Rabbi
With over 30 years of experience, I help eliminate the guesswork in choosing the right senior living community that meets your needs and preferences. I look beyond the fancy décor and evaluate facilities on:
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Kushner. Join us Sunday, Nov. 3 at 10:30 a.m. to discuss our November book, “Conquering Fear: Living Boldly in an Uncertain World.” Register at tinyurl.com/TS-KushnerPart2.
Jewish book discussion
In anticipation of guest lecturer and author Ilan Troen’s visit to Temple Shalom on Nov. 13, Rabbi Boxman will lead a discussion on Troen’s book, “Israel/Palestine in World Religions: Whose Promised Land?” on Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 11 a.m. Register at tinyurl.com/TS-JBCTroen.
Guest lecturer, author Ilan Troen
On Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 1 p.m.,
American-Israeli historian, author and Brandeis University Professor Emeritus Ilan Troen joins us to discuss his book, “Israel/Palestine in World Religions: Whose Promised Land?” Troen will share details of his experience and immeasurable loss regarding Oct. 7, 2023. This event is cosponsored by the Temple Shalom Men’s Club, in partnership with the Jewish Book Council. Register for this event at tinyurl.com/TS-JBCTroen.
Eat … pray … learn
By Chuck Naumoff, Publicity Chair
"Naples
Jewish Congregation invites the entire community to enjoy a wonderful evening of study, dinner and Shabbat services.
On Friday Nov. 15 at 5 p.m., Rabbi Howard Herman will speak on “Sinning for God – When do the ends justify the means?”
WWW.SENIORHOUSINGSOLUTIONS.NET
How do we build a better world when we know our actions may have unintended or unavoidable economic, political or ecological consequences? What is justifiable in the pursuit of justice? Can we do anything to create the outcome we want? How far can or should we stray from the moral path in the pursuit of perceived betterment for humanity?
As a congregation, NJC is committed to promoting education and reflective
discussion of the compelling issues that we face as Americans and Jews. Rabbi Herman is a poignant, insightful and entertaining educator, who generously shares his knowledge and brings about a vibrant and respectful exchange of ideas and beliefs.
Join us afterwards on our beautiful patio for a delicious light dinner (only $10 per person) followed by our regular Friday night Shabbat service featuring Cantorial Soloist Jane Galler and Music Director Alla Gorelick for songs and inspiration.
Please go to NaplesJewishCongregation.org to register for the dinner and to see our Lifelong learning schedule.
Naples Jewish Congregation
Naplesjewishcongregation.org • 239-431-3858
South Africa wages legal warfare against Israel
By Allen Menkin, MD, Project Manager, CAMERA’s Naples Partnership of Christians and Jews
"Antisemitism is not only the oldest, longest, most enduring and most lethal racism … (but one) which reflects whatever the zeitgeist is at any given moment.” – Irwin Cotler
In our time, that zeitgeist has taken the form of anti-Zionism, and it is traceable to the 2001 South Africa World Conference on Racism. The conference was a bacchanal of Jew hatred that labelled Israel a racist, imperialist, settler colonial, ethnic-cleansing, child-murdering, apartheid, genocidal, Nazi state, and remains the core of South Africa’s foreign policy to this day. Its poisonous rhetoric is showcased at campus Palestinian Occupied Zones, amplified by the media, and legitimized by political parties, Western “allies” and the United Nations.
The impressive financial, moral and emotional support mustered when Israel is physically attacked is muted or altogether absent when she is under siege at
the International Court of Justice, World Criminal Court and UN General Assembly. Their obscene charges of apartheid and genocide, demands for a Judenrein Judea, Samaria and E. Jerusalem by this time next year, and criminal indictment of Israel’s leaders are referred to as “lawfare” and are somehow tolerated.
Our Nov. 18 conference at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center features Rev. Malcolm Hedding, a South African Pastor, Zionist and international expert on apartheid. The ancient Chinese general/ philosopher Sun Tsu said, "Know your enemy… in a hundred battles, you will never be defeated." Come and learn more about one of our enemies.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. There is no charge, but registration is required. To register, see the flyer in this issue or visit www.eventbrite.com/e/southafricas-lawfare-against-the-jewish-statetickets-1003057541107.
The Maccabeats are coming; the Maccabeats are coming!
Sunday, Nov. 10, 3 p.m. at Chabad of Naples
By Rabbi Fishel Zaklos
You’ve heard them and seen their fun and entertaining music videos. Often traveling with little more than the shirts on their backs and the ties on their necks, the Maccabeats have entertained and inspired hundreds of audiences worldwide. Using nothing more than the unadulterated human voice, a clean-cut presentation and a little Jewish humor, this unique group of singers is able to connect with fans of all backgrounds and ages.
The Maccabeats’ unique offering has caught the eye of numerous organizations and individuals throughout the world. They’ve played sold-out shows to thousands at JCCs, synagogues, Chabads, Hillels, jazz clubs, festivals, conventions and theaters across five continents and over 30 states. And now … they are coming to Naples!
Join the community on Sunday, Nov. 10 at Chabad of Naples, 1789 Mandarin
LIVE in NAPLES!
Road. The 90-minute show begins at 3 p.m. (Cultural events at Chabad of Naples have mixed seating and casual attire.) These seven guys will entertain you with their enthusiastic energy as their voices will fill the room with happiness.
There’s an option to meet the seven guys up close and personal during the VIP cocktail reception at 2 p.m.
This event kicks off the 2024-25 “Celebration of Jewish Life” program, hosted by Chabad of Naples.
Beth Tikvah November programs
By Lee Henson, Program Director
We at Beth Tikvah hope everyone has had a wonderful start to the New Year! If you have just returned from up north, please stop by and join us for services and our many programs.
3:00 - 4:30pm
Pre-event cocktail reception at 2:00pm Chabad of Naples 1789 Mandarin Road
Our musical programs will be introduced during a unique weekend Nov. 2-3 when Hazzan Andres A. Levy will be here all the way from his home in Argentina to share music and learning.
Buy your tickets today!
$36 for general admission in advance ($50 at the door)
$72 for VIP seating
On Nov. 8, we will honor our veterans and those in our families. If you would like your veteran’s likeness added to our poster, please send it to our office.
$180 for pre-event reception: cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, meet-and-greet and song with Maccabeat members & VIP seating
In addition to these activities, we have joined Hadassah to support their program, “Women to Women, Girls to Girls.” Donations of women’s menstruation products can be dropped off in the basket by the poster in our foyer. Due to the complications of the current economics mixed with the fact that SNAP does not allow these products, we will collect donations all year.
If you have any questions, please check our website, bethtikvahnaples.org, or call our office, 239-434-1818. Our email is info@BethTikvah.us.
239-434-1818 For tickets, go to CJLnaples.com or call
For more information and to orders tickets, see the full-page ad on page 40, visit CJLnaples.com or call 239262-4474.
We have changed the name of our educational and informational programs to “The Phil Jason Speakers’ Series” in honor of our late, loved and respected past president. The first event in this series will be on Nov. 12 when Jeff Margolis discusses “Books for Soldiers.”
Come join us for Havdalah at Lowdermilk Park on Nov. 23 at 5:30 p.m.
bethtikvahnaples.org
November 1: 6:26 p.m. November 8: 5:22 p.m.
November 15: 5:19 p.m. November 22: 5:17 p.m.
November 28: 5:16 p.m.
photo by Abbie Sophia
News flash: We’re all getting older
By Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb
If you find yourself in a frozen yogurt shop on a Saturday night in Fort Myers, you are likely to encounter a much younger crowd. Here is a personal story to set the frame.
It was after dinner and attending a play with friends. We were all between 70-85 years of age and the numerous other patrons were in their early-mid teens. Just barely not old enough to drive. I felt like I had traded places with my earlier self when we would comment that we were among very few young people here.
The impact of aging has different challenges for each of us individually and for groups collectively. For GenShoah SWFL, it involves exploring if and how to involve the next generation — the third generation (3G). It also raises a bigger question of where the Holocaust is part of the legacy that gets enshrined into the "must know" category.
Florida Gulf Coast University is putting on a play about the Holocaust this November. It is called "Letters to Sala" and is based on the book “Sala's Gift” by Ann Kirschner. One of the issues raised in the play pertains to the tension between the children and grandchildren of Holocaust survivors about what to do with letters written during WWII between Sala (a survivor) and her family. Sala surprises her daughter (2G) with the letters as Sala nears the end of her life. The daughter wants to gift the letters to a local museum, but the two granddaughters (3G) in the household want to keep the letters as a personal remembrance.
Many Holocaust survivors voiced to their children and others that the world must never forget. That mantra has been a driving force for that second generation. As the 2G population gets older, is that mantra still potent? What happens when those who remember are gone? How do we carry this responsibility into the future? We must reach out to the younger crowd to create paths to answer these questions. It is up to everyone in the Jewish community to remind and remember. In small and big ways, 2Gs must continue to hear the mantra to remember from their ancestors, and they must be vigilant in communicating it to their descendants. GenShoah SWFL is challenging its members to find a home for their parents' history that will be meaningful for future generations.
We are thankful for having reached this time and place in life, and we are hopeful that the footprints we have planted will guide future generations.
Shabbat & Holy Day Services
Yahrtzeit Minyanim upon Request
Adult Education Courses
Scholar-in-Residence Program
Rosh Chodesh Study Sessions
Seasonal Adult Lecture Series Mixers & Social Events
Pastoral Support & Counseling Life Cycle Celebrations
Upcoming programs
"Letters to Sala" play by Arlene Sutton (special event for GenShoah members): Nov. 3, 2 p.m. with talkback afterwards at the FGCU TheatreLab (Arts Complex). Other dates/times available; visit fgcu.edu/ theatrelab.
Movies that Matter — The Steve Brazina Memorial Series (all online): “Pay or Die" Zoom Discussion/Q&A on Nov. 6 from 2-3 p.m. EDT. Fall series RSVP required; visit hmcec.org.
Book Discussion — “The People on the Beach: Journeys to Freedom After the Holocaust” by Rosie Whitehouse on Nov.14, 11 a.m. at Temple Beth Tikvah of Naples. Rosie Whitehouse, a journalist, started with the manifest of one of the ships that brought displaced persons to Palestine soon after the end of the Holocaust. She follows the stories wherever they lead her. RSVP required; email ekafer520@ gmail.com.
from each other in a variety of settings and on different topics. Visit dorotusa. org/2Gprograms.
Participate in our free virtual film series. “Always Remember” is a sixmonth series of free, virtual screenings designed to raise Holocaust awareness through cinema. We’ll offer a selection of films designed to amplify unique voices and experiences relating to the Holocaust, highlighting LGBTQ+ stories, women’s perspectives, stories of resistance, youth experiences and more. Visit filminde pendent.org/presents/ always-remember.
Kristallnacht Commemoration (Catholic Jewish Dialogue) on Nov. 17 at 2:30 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church Naples. A solemn program coordinated to involve the diverse members of our community and remember the event that is considered the beginning of the Holocaust. A speech by Holocaust survivor John Koenigsberg highlights this year's program. RSVP at jewishnaples.org.
Also of interest
The DOROT organization offers special 2G lectures and programs. Learn with and
About GenShoah SWFL
GenShoah SWFL is a group for children and descendants of Holocaust survivors and anyone interested in the mission of GenShoah of SWFL. Our group is always open to interested people. There aren’t any dues or forms to fill out. If you would like to receive our newsletter and program announcements, just send us an email. If you would like to volunteer to help with future programs, please let us know that, too!
We do encourage membership at the Museum, as we are an affinity organization with them. If you are not already a member of the Museum, please consider joining or making a donation.
GenShoah SWFL
GenShoahSWFL@HMCEC.org
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, 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 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.
Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb
Jews and Tattoos
Aging Jewishly — What our traditions teach us about growing old.
By Rabbi Barbara Aiello
Not long ago I received a call from a grieving widow. Her beloved husband of 71 years had passed away. “Jake wasn’t all that religious,” his wife Arlene explained, “but I do know that he wanted a Jewish funeral in a Jewish cemetery. I was making arrangements when my brother-in-law phoned to tell me that Jake’s Jewish funeral was impossible.” Arlene was shocked. Then, Jake’s brother explained. He said, “Jake can’t be buried in a Jewish cemetery, because when Jake was in the Navy, he got a tattoo.”
These days tattoos are all the rage. Among the general public there are those who view the tattoo as an artistic or even a spiritual expression, yet others are opposed to any activity that permanently marks the body. For us Jews, however, the tattoo issue has a deeply historical and emotional significance.
Turning to the Torah in VaYikra (Leviticus), we find a specific prohibition regarding tattoos: “You shall not make gashes in your flesh for the dead or incise any marks on yourselves: I am the Lord” (Leviticus 19:28). Even Maimonides, one of greatest commentators, had a tattoo opinion. He concluded that regardless of intent, the act of tattooing is prohibited (Mishneh Torah, Laws of Idolatry 12:11). Then there’s Professor Aaron Demsky of Bar-Ilan University who sites text from
Isaiah and Job that suggests tattooing was acceptable in biblical times.
A modern perspective comes from a tattooed rabbi himself. Rabbi Marshal Klaven of Congregation B’nai Israel in Texas got his first tattoo at 16 years of age and now boasts four more, each depicting a Jewish theme. Rabbi Klaven even wrote his rabbinic thesis on tattooing in Jewish history. “In the Torah, tattoos marking affiliation to the people of Israel and/or the God of Israel were accepted, if not encouraged, more times than not,” says Rabbi Klaven.
Klaven adds, “In the classic rabbinic period, what bothered the rabbis was not the presence or the content of that mark, but its intended purpose. While a minority of sages believed that willfully receiving or giving a tattoo was a transgression, the majority objected only when the tattoo served an idolatrous purpose” (Carol Kemp, “Rethink the Ink,” Jewish News Online UK 2017).
Regardless of the historical argument, the emotional impact of tattooing is not lost on Holocaust survivors, their children and even their grandchildren. Historians tell us that during the Holocaust, (194142) concentration camp prisoners received
tattoos only at the Auschwitz concentration camp complex, that included Auschwitz I (Main Camp), Auschwitz II (Auschwitz-Birkenau) and Auschwitz III (Monowitz and the subcamps).
The procedure was brutal and dehumanizing. Eyewitness accounts from survivors testify to a procedure that featured “a special metal stamp, holding interchangeable numbers made up of needles … which allowed the whole serial number to be punched at one blow onto the prisoner's left upper chest. Ink was then rubbed into the bleeding wound. Later, a single-needle device was introduced, which pierced the outlines of the serial-number digits onto the skin” (Tattoos and Numbers, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum).
There is no record of a tattooed Holocaust survivor having been denied burial in a Jewish cemetery. In fact, many modern rabbis — including eight scholars polled for an article on the topic — say that the burial prohibition for a tattooed Jew is an urban legend most likely started because a specific cemetery had a policy against tattoos. Even Chabad spokesperson Chani Benjaminson states “The Torah forbids us from tattooing our bodies. Nonetheless, one who
has had tattoos can still be buried in a Jewish cemetery.”
So, where did the prohibition come from? It’s likely that Jewish parents and grandparents, many of whom found tattoos distasteful, passed off the myth as Jewish law.
Indeed, Jake’s widow, the “Arlene” in our story, had no need to worry. Jake’s Navy tattoo would not prohibit a Jewish burial. That being said, our Holocaust history paints a horrifying picture of tattooing juxtaposed with the cultural phenomenon that nearly 40 percent of our adult children and 36 percent of our teenage grandchildren have at least one tattoo.
What does this mean for us Jews? Beyond debunking the cemetery myth, a discussion of Jews and tattoos seems to be one that is quite timely, culturally appropriate, and indeed worth having.
To learn more about denominational perspectives regarding Jews and tattoos see: http://www.momentmag.com/ are-tattoos-and-body-piercings-taboo/ For 10 years Rabbi Barbara Aiello served the Aviva Campus for Senior Life as resident rabbi. Currently, as Italy’s first female rabbi, she serves a “b’nei anusim” Jewish community in Calabria, Italy located in the “toe” of Italy’s “boot.” Contact her at Rabbi@ RabbiBarbara.com.
Eat...Pray... Learn
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15,
ABOUT NJC
As a congregation, NJC is committed to promoting education and reflective discussion of the compelling issues that we all face as Americans and Jews. Rabbi Herman is a poignant, insightful and entertaining educator, who generously shares his knowledge and brings about a vibrant and respectful exchange of ideas and beliefs.
RESERVATIONS
Join us for a light dinner on our beautiful patio for a nominal cost of $10. Please make reservations and see our full Lifelong Learning schedule on our website: naplesjewishcongregation.org.
Regular Shabbat services conducted by Rabbi Herman accompanied by Cantorial Soloist Jane Galler.
ABOUT THE SESSION
How do we build a better world when we know our actions may have unintended or unavoidable economic, political or ecological consequences? What is justifiable in the pursuit of justice? Can we do anything to create the outcome we want? How far can or should we stray from the moral path in the pursuit of perceived betterment for humanity? And (time permitting): In the pursuit of justice, which laws are we allowed to break?
Rabbi Barbara Aiello
“A Real Pain,” “Wicked,” and more … Stars of David
By Nate Bloom, Stars of David Contributing Columnist
Editor’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.
“A Real Pain”
“A Real Pain,” a “very Jewish” film, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival last January and almost all reviews were stellar. It opens “wide” in theaters on Nov. 1. Owen Gliberman, 65, Variety’s top critic, loved the film; you can easily find and read the review online for free. The headline of the Variety review almost says it all: “Jesse Eisenberg becomes a major filmmaker and Kieran Culkin a movie star — in a funny, knife-sharp odyssey.”
Eisenberg, 41, wrote and directed the film. He has written several other plays and directed one other film, but “A Real Pain” is clearly a great career milestone for Eisenberg. It’s almost certain he will be Oscar-nominated.
Here’s the premise boiled down: David (Eisenberg) and Benji (Culkin) are first cousins who haven’t seen each other lately. They reunite on a group “Holocaust tour” of Poland. David is a “very normal” guy, while Benji, in Variety’s words, is the combination of a “hipster slacker and corporate dick” who is also the “life of the party.” People are alternately annoyed
at him and drawn to him. Because David and Benji are on a “Holocaust tour,” there’s lot of “Jewish stuff” in the mix.
Gliberman praises how brilliantly the main characters have been written and how well Culkin and Eisenberg play their characters. He also compliments Eisenberg’s direction.
Jennifer Grey, 64, Daniel Oreskes, 65, and Liza Sadovy, 65-ish, play other American Jews on the “Holocaust tour.” Also, on the tour is an African (played by British actor Kurt Egyiawan) who survived the Rwanda genocide and converted to Judaism.
Banner Eisenberg, 7, has a small part. He’s the son of Jesse Eisenberg and his wife, Anna Strout, 40.
The following movies are also opening in theaters on Nov. 1: “Here;” “Lost on a Mountain in Maine;” and “Absolution.”
“Here”
Another “big movie” directed by Oscarwinner Robert Zemeckis (“Forrest Gump”) and loaded with big-name actors (Tom Hanks and Robin Wright), “Here” has a storyline that covers the events of a single spot of land and its inhabitants, spanning from the past to well into the future.
The film’s screenplay was cowritten by Zemeckis and Eric Roth, 79. Roth won a screenwriting Oscar for “Forrest Gump,” and he’s been nominated five other times for his adapted screenplays.
“Lost on a Mountain in Maine”
Based on a book of the same name, “Lost on a Mountain in Maine” tells the inspiring, true story of a 12-year-old boy, who, separated from his family by a fastmoving storm, fights to stay alive during his nine-day ordeal. Ethan Slater, 32, has a major supporting role playing the character, Henry.
“Absolution”
Liam Neeson is the star of “Absolution.”
The premise is that of an aging gangster (Neeson) who attempts to reconnect with his children and rectify the mistakes in his past, but the criminal underworld won’t loosen its grip willingly. Ron Pearlman, 74, has a costarring role as Neeson’s crime boss.
“Wicked”
“Wicked,” the huge musical stage hit, has finally been made into a film, and it will open in theaters on Nov. 27. The stage musical premiered in 2003 and was loosely based on the 1995 novel of the same name. Its premise drew from the original (early 20th C.) “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” novels but had a different spin pertaining to the origins and lives of the good witch and the wicked witch.
Top Broadway composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz, now 76, “stumbled” (1996) on this novel and thought it would be a good play and/or musical. After
much trouble, Schwartz got the rights to use the novel as a basis for a Broadway musical. Schwartz rewrote or reworked a lot of the material in the novel. He wrote all the songs, too.
Winnie Holzman , now 70, wrote original scenes and dialogue for the musical. She is credited as the musical’s “book writer” for the stage and movie versions.
The original Broadway musical costarred Idina Menzel, now 53, as the Wicked Witch and Joel Grey, now 92, as the Wizard of Oz. Black British actress Cynthia Erivo plays the Wicked Witch in the movie. Jeff Goldblum, 71, plays the Wizard of Oz.
“Freedom”
An original Prime Video movie, “Freedom” will begin streaming on Nov.1. It is inspired by Bruno Sulak, a real-life 1970s outlaw in France. He masterminded daring heists without firing a single shot. Sulak was pursued by George Moreas, a dogged police commissioner.
Yvan Attal, 59, a prominent French actor and filmmaker, plays Moreas. Attal was born in Tel Aviv; his parents were Algerian Jews.
French actress and director Melanie Laurent , 41, directed “Freedom” and was also a cowriter. She’s best known in America as a star of the 2009 film “Inglorious Bastards.”
Honoring Jewish Traditions
Avow is certified by the National Institute for Jewish Hospice and deeply respects Jewish customs surrounding serious illness and end of life. Our team is educated in these traditions to provide compassionate, culturally sensitive care. Available 24/7/365, we offer hospice, non-hospice palliative care, and grief support for adults and children.
KRISTALLNACHT
Kristallnacht is recognized by most historians as “the night the Holocaust began.” The Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County invites the community to this commemorative service.
Sunday, Nov. 17 at 2:30 PM
Ballroom at St. John the Evangelist 625 111th Ave., North Naples (111th Ave is the westward extension of Immokalee Road)
Please register at: www.jewishnaples.org so we know how many people will attend.
In the spring of 1943, 5-year-old John Koenigsberg was brought to the home of Johannes “Thei” and Anna “Bertha” Snijckers by members of the Dutch Resistance. This Catholic family hid him from Nazis between 1943 and 1945. Come hear his story.
Experiences of a Young Boy During the Holocaust
Veteran Israeli diplomat to headline JNF USA’s Breakfast for Israel
Naples, Florida, Oct. 2, 2024
— Several hundred Israel-supporting philanthropists will unite at Jewish National Fund-USA’s annual Breakfast for Israel, taking place on Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 10 a.m., to honor the resilience of the people of Israel while highlighting bold and visionary plans to rebuild all that Israel’s enemies have torn down.
Veteran Israeli diplomat and current Senior Vice President of Jewish Broadcasting Service Shahar Azani will headline the event. Having previously served in Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for over 15 years and as the Executive Director for the Northeast Region at StandWithUs, Azani brings a unique perspective to his keynote speech.
Hurricane Emergency Relief Fund
Hurricanes Helene and Milton have struck the east coast powerful storms, bringing with it wind speeds exceeding 140 mph, a storm surge expected to surpass 20 feet, and more than 15 inches of rainfall, causing widespread flooding and damage across Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Entire communities have been plunged into darkness, with homes and businesses severely impacted and cut off from main roadways. Thousands of residents have been displaced, and Jewish communities are facing urgent needs for recovery, aid, and rebuilding.
Jewish Federations are uniquely positioned to offer vital support in times of crisis like this.
You can help by contributing to the Hurricane Emergency Relief Fund, ensuring that Jewish communities and those affected receive the assistance they need. To donate go to jewish naples.org, use the link below or scan the QR code
and Special in Uniform, which incorporates Israelis with special needs into the Israel Defense Forces.
“From the moment Israel declared itself a state, I was impressed as a young man by what miracles it had created and how it provided a homeland for Jewish people from all over the world,” said Greenberg. “As I grew older, I saw that those people needed help from those of
Azani will focus on topics including lessons for a post-Oct. 7 world, skyrocketing antisemitism, Israel's status in the United Nations, and his vision for a path forward.
“Join me at the Breakfast for Israel to learn how to stand against those who seek to destroy us, face the challenges ahead, and leverage all of the opportunities that this situation presents us with. Together, we will be triumphant,” says Azani.
Philanthropist and former Jewish National Fund-USA Naples Board Member Hank Greenberg is the event’s honoree. An admired and respected community member, Greenberg has supported a myriad of Jewish National FundUSA programs, including a baseball field in Beit Shemesh via the organization’s Project Baseball, the ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran rehabilitative facility in the Negev,
us who were fortunate enough to call the United States our home. It has always been a mission of mine to ensure that the people of Israel can thrive and continue to be harbingers of peace in this troubled section of the world.”
Jewish National Fund-USA’s local lay leaders will also provide an update about the organization’s Israel Resilience Campaign and “Build Together” plan to revitalize the southern Israeli communities in the Israel Envelope (formerly known as the Gaza Envelope), providing the infrastructure and quality of life needed to allow residents to feel safe coming home (jnf.org/supportisrael).
Visit jnf.org/BFINaples or contact Joshua Mellits, JNF-USA Director, Western Florida and Orlando at jmellits@jnf. org or 941-462-1330 x865.
Courtesy of Jewish National Fund-USA
Gift of Life Marrow Registry marks 500th lifesaving transplant from Birthright donors
Los Angeles gala featured first-time meeting of two donors and recipients.
Courtesy of Birthright Israel
Los Angeles, CA (Sept. 18, 2024) —
For 20 years, Gift of Life Marrow Registry and Taglit - Birthright Israel have joined forces to empower Birthright participants to become blood stem cell and marrow donors. The selfless acts of these young people have given many blood cancer patients a second chance at life. On Sept. 16, the organizations celebrated this milestone at the annual One Huge Night Los Angeles Gala, while also marking the 500th successful transplant from Birthright donors.
"Thanks to our partnership with Birthright, we've witnessed firsthand the power of young people to make a truly extraordinary impact," said Founder and CEO of Gift of Life Marrow Registry Jay Feinberg. "The Birthright participants who have volunteered to become donors have shown remarkable courage and compassion. Their selfless acts have given countless patients a new lease on life, and they have become true heroes in our community."
Since partnering in 2004, Gift of Life and Birthright Israel have successfully recruited thousands of young adults to donors. This collaboration has led to hundreds of lifesaving transplants for patients with leukemia, lymphoma and inherited immune disorders.
“Birthright Israel, which brings tens of thousands of Jewish young adults to Israel every year, is extremely proud of the more than 100,000 participants who have volunteered to join the Gift of Life Marrow Registry. To date, 5,000 matches have been made for patients with blood cancer, resulting in over 500 lifesaving transplants,” said CEO of Birthright Israel Gidi Mark. “The partnership between Birthright Israel and Gift of Life has had a profound impact, saving thousands of lives and offering hope to many individuals and their families.”
Dr. Miriam Adelson an Israeli-American physician and philanthropist, who is also the publisher of the Israel Hayom newspaper and the majority owner of the Dallas Mavericks, delivered the event’s keynote. A dedicated Gift of Life advocate, Dr. Adelson and her husband were instrumental in the creation of the Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Gift of Life Collection Center located at Gift of Life’s headquarters in Boca Raton, Florida.
“It is a great honor for me to be involved in this lifesaving collaboration between Gift of Life and Birthright Israel,
where so many participants and alumni are committed to such a noble cause. You are not only changing lives but also saving them!” said Dr. Adelson, a major supporter of Birthright Israel and Gift of Life.
“The Talmud teaches that whoever saves a single life is considered to have saved the whole world. I am proud to witness this remarkable partnership between these two incredible nonprofits, which has already saved over 500 lives — 500 worlds!”
The gala featured two first-time donorrecipient meetings, including that of 21-year-old Jacob Isrow from West Hills, Califorina, whose blood stem cells saved the life of leukemia patient Mark Josephson. A University of California, Berkely student, Isrow joined the registry during a Birthright trip in 2022. He was inspired by his friend, whose father succumbed to blood cancer.
Gift of Life donor, Jason Tornes, of Dayton, Ohio, also met his recipient, 3-year-old Isla Kobernat, who survived Severe Combined Immunodeficiency due to his selfless act. Tornes joined the registry in 2022 as a student at the University of Dayton.
Among the special guests were awardwinning actress, singer, dancer, philanthropist and social media activist Montana Tucker.
Israel at Crossroads post October 7
Ido Aharoni Aronoff is an Israeli diplomat, advisor to global companies, public speaker, university lecturer, writer and investor. He was born in Tel Aviv to a family that settled in the Land of Israel in the 1870s and spent his entire diplomatic career in the U.S. on both coasts. He is a 25-year veteran of Israel’s Foreign Service, a public diplomacy specialist, founder of the Brand Israel Program (2002), and a well-known place positioning and branding practitioner.
Aronoff served as a Member of the Board of Governors of Tel Aviv University since 2015 and as senior faculty at the university’s Coller School of Management since 2018. He is the host of TAU Unbound, the official English language podcast of Tel Aviv University. He has served as a Global Distinguished Professor for International Relations at New York University and, since 2024, as Global Distinguished Professor of Business at Touro University.
Aharoni has been Israel’s longest-serving Consul-General in New York (20102016) and has frequently appeared in national and international media as a commentator and opinion writer.
Sunday, Nov. 3
3 p.m. presentation
Recipient, Mark Josephson; Donor, Jacob Isrow; Philip-de-Toledo, chair of the board of directors, Birthright Israel Foundation Credit: Carlos Chattah Photography
Recipient, Isla Kobernat; Donor, Jason Tornes Credit: Carlos Chattah Photography
WINTER SERIES (Jan-
March )
ELLIOTT KATZ LECTURE SERIES
Co-sponsored by
UPCOMING 2025 WINTER SCHEDULE
January 24: No Good Deed Goes Unpunished
The civil rights movement of the 1960s was an awakening for many Americans. None more so, than young American Jews. Joining to help fi ght segregation, many were beaten and imprisoned in southern jails. Two gave their lives for the cause. Their reward was not what you would have expected. You will learn that no good deed goes unpunished.
January 31: Beau James and Murder in The Park
When the body of Vivian Gordon, a woman with a checkered past, was found murdered in Van Cortland Park in the Bronx, on February 26, 1931, it set in motion a series of events that toppled New York’s favorite Mayor and destroyed, arguably the most powerful political organization in America. The movie does not tell the whole story. Learn how this happened.
February 14: The Partition of India, Wounds That Never Heal
When the British government agreed to partition India in August 1947, the resulting human catastrophe of displacement, misery and death would be squarely placed on the shoulders of England’s leaders, one in particular. Learn who was really responsible for this disaster and why it happened.
February 21: Lawrence of Arabia Meets NILI
Thomas Edward Lawrence was England’s Arab Savior tasked by the British to organize an Arab revolt against the Ottoman Turks in Arabia, in World War I. Sarah Aronsohn her brother Aaron and three dozen Jewish youths decided that they too would help the British to defeat the Turks in their ancient homeland, Palestine. When the British were successful in defeating the Turks to whom did they give the credit? You will be surprised.
February 28: Putting on the Ritz
The Ritz Hotel in Paris, before World War II was the gathering place for the glitterati, the famous and the rich. It became the Nazis favorite residence and meeting place during the French occupation. While they feasted on roast pheasants and sipped champagne, they never suspected what was happening in the Ritz, right under their noses.
March 7: No Good Deed Goes Unpunished: Redux
The small Jewish community of South Africa played a disproportionate role in opposing apartheid. Nelson Mandela acknowledged that fact and honored them after becoming president. The reward was the present government pursuing a blood libel against the state of Israel at the International Court of Justice. Why? The answer is quite simple, and you will hear it.
March 28: The Longest Hatred
History encompasses 2500 years of anti-Semitism. We will explore when it began, its past manifestations and how it has morphed into an outburst of Jewish hatred in the 21st century. Learn how the new anti-Semitism is different than the old anti-Semitism and how and why it has become a worldwide phenomenon.
DETAILS AND TICKETS
WHERE: Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center 4720 Pine Ridge Rd .
WHEN: January 24, 31 | February 14, 21, 28
March 7, 28 | Fridays from 10-11:30 am
COST: Series of 7 lectures at $155 pp or $30 individual ticket
PURCHASE SERIES OR INDIVIDUAL TICKETS AT WWW.JEWISHNAPLES.ORG.
Tickets can be purchased at the door if seats are available.
Lunches, brunches and events galore
CNancy Wiadro, Presidents Council for Collier/Lee Chapter
ollier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah welcomes our new and returning seasonal members on Wednesday, Nov. 13, with our Fall Luncheon Meeting and Election of 2025 officers. There will be an important panel discussion on how antisemitism impacts us all and a local artisan vendor’s showcase (for holiday gift giving). Registration is essential. To register for this or any of the Hadassah programs below, email CollierLeeHadassah@ gmail.com and put “Information” in the subject line.
Hadassah’s life changing work has attracted many new members over the summer months. Our membership team will resume new and prospective member gatherings in Naples, Bonita, Estero and Fort Myers. If you are new to any of these communities, kindly email the address above so that we can personally greet you.
Major donor and Keepers of the Gate recognition brunch
Our 25th Annual Major Donor and Keepers of the Gate Recognition Brunch takes place at Talis Park Golf Club in Naples on Sunday, Dec. 8. Special guest speaker and Hadassah Medical Organization Chair Dr. Judith Mann will brief guests on the completion and equipping of the Gandel Rehabilitation Center on Mount Scopus, Jerusalem. Mann, a doctor of physical therapy, will relate the center’s vital physical and emotional rehabilitation efforts and equipment needs. Men and women, who are donors from the annual Chai Society level ($180+) or higher, are encouraged to attend.
Installation of chapter officers
Monday, Jan. 13, is the 2025 Installation of Chapter Officers with lunch by Prestige Catering, at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center in Naples. There will be a special fashion show from Petunia’s 5th Avenue shop in Old Naples. Registration is required.
Inspiring women event
Save the date for Sunday, Feb. 2, at 11 a.m., for the chapter’s Third Annual Inspiring Women at the Audubon Country Club in North Naples. Women being recognized for their outstanding community work are Susan Bookbinder, Naples; Paula Brody, Naples; and Elizabeth Dosoretz, Fort Myers. Net proceeds will benefit Hadassah’s Gandel Rehabilitation Center. Registration is required.
Since Oct. 7, 2023, Hadassah’s resources continue to be deployed wherever tragedy occurs. Youth at risk, traumatized by the shelling near their residential Youth Aliyah Villages, now receive critical psychological support and safe shelter.
The Sarah Wetsman Davidson Hospital Tower at the Ein Kerem campus, accommodates patients and their caregivers deep underground in six new operating theaters, safe from conventional, biological and chemical attack.
A crucial new intensive care unit at the Ein Kerem Round Building, must be equipped with the necessary hi-tech orthopedic instruments to best treat mass casualties from across Central Israel.
As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, let us pause to give thanks to those who came before us and to express gratitude to those leading us into 2025.
When you are considering your yearend philanthropic giving, please think of Hadassah and how meaningful a gift of any amount could be. Visit hadassah.org/ donate (Include “Collier/Lee Chapter” for credit).
Thank you. Together we will heal!
Collier/Lee Hadassah announces Fourth Annual Inspiring Women honorees
By Diane Schwartz, President’s Council for Collier/Lee Chapter
Collier/Lee
Hadassah announces and celebrates the 2025 Inspiring Women from Collier and Lee Counties. Susan Bookbinder, Paula Brody and Elizabeth Dosoretz will be honored on Sunday, Feb. 2. Hadassah is proud to present each honoree with the Lynn Wilner Award named in recognition of the chapter’s late past president who inspired so many to join and become active in Hadassah.
Through its programs, training and work around the globe, Hadassah empowers women to learn and lead in their career, volunteer and community leadership roles. With this emphasis in mind, the Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah has created the Inspiring Women event to recognize the importance, value and impact empowered women make in our communities.
The honorees have used their leadership
skills, dedication, experience, generosity and time to make a difference in their organizations and the quality of our lives. Ultimately, their efforts impact many people in our communities, and Hadassah is proud to honor these inspiring women.
“It’s exciting to recognize Susan Bookbinder, Paula Brody and Elizabeth Dosoretz not only for their individual accomplishments and their greater community impact,” said Chapter Co-President Nancy Wiadro. “Attendees and supporters of these inspiring women will have an opportunity to celebrate their talents, gifts and their passion for what they do.”
Join us to celebrate our honorees’ accomplishments and support Hadassah’s new Gandel Rehabilitation Center, Mt. Scopus, Jerusalem.
You are invited to mark your calendar for the Feb. 2 event — a luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Audubon Country Club, Naples. For information and to receive an invitation, please email collierleehadassah@ gmail.com.
Silver Circle Honors Long-Time Donors
January 8, 2025: Silver Circle
Pre-Reception at Hilton, 4:00 PM
Special Guest: David Heller, JFNA National Campaign Chair
February 19, 2025: Silver Circle Reception at Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, 3:00 PM
Have you, or someone you know, been giving to Federation for 25 years or more?
Please proudly let us know so we can celebrate you and your commitment to Jewish Philanthropy.
Contact Alicia Feldman, Development Director, at (239) 449-8266 or afeldman@jewishnaples.org to find out more.
We warmly invite all grandparents of children with special needs to a unique networking event:
Tuesday, Nov. 19 | 10-11:30 a.m. At the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center
Register for this free program at www.jewishnaples.org
This is a wonderful opportunity to:
• Connect with other grandparents who understand your journey.
• Share stories and advice
• Learn about local programs and support available
• Build a supportive community Why Attend?
• Support: Gain emotional and practical support.
• Community: Be part of a caring and understanding group.
• Resources: Access valuable information and resources.
Captivating storyteller and hit songwriter BRYAN RUBY IN CONCERT!
History and the lessons we must learn
IRabbi Ammos Chorny
once read about a young woman who, while visiting the Judean Valley in Israel, fell into a pit. Miraculously, she survived, though her injuries required over 100 stitches. When asked why she didn’t pursue reconstructive surgery, she responded that she preferred to keep the scars as a clear reminder that she was alive by the grace of the Creator.
Each of us bears scars, whether physical or emotional. As a people, the Jewish nation collectively carries the scars of its long history of suffering. Last month, we marked one year since Oct. 7 — the most devastating attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. The wounds from that massacre will remain with us for a long time.
Just a few months earlier, on the 9th of Av, we fasted to remember the baseless hatred that once tore us apart. Tradition teaches that it was this discord among our people that incited God's anger and led to the destruction of both the First and Second Temples. Since then, we have carried this knowledge with us, striving to be better and kinder to one another. Scars, after all, are not merely remnants of the past — they are reminders of the lessons we must carry forward, urging us to act with greater wisdom and compassion.
We are living in a time of great division and fragmentation, especially in America, and as we look toward the future, we must work harder to show respect to those who share this world with us.
We need to be gracious, generous and willing to see things from others' perspectives. Let us radiate positivity and encouragement, rather than seeking to tear others down.
What our Father in Heaven desires most, and what will heal the fractures in our relationships, is hope, unity and love. When we begin to see each person as a unique individual with something valuable to contribute, the walls of hatred we may have built due to our perceived differences begin to crumble, replaced by understanding.
The Creator has ensured that each one of us has a purpose, that every person has something meaningful to offer. No one is deserving of hate, and everyone has a role in the tapestry of the world. When we recognize this truth and allow one
Thewaywetreatoneanothermatters— both to those whom we encounter andintheeyesoftheCreator.
another the space to fulfill our God-given potential, we begin to truly correct the mistakes of the past.
There is much to reflect on regarding the tragic events in Jewish history, but beyond the historical details lies something even more crucial: the lessons we must learn. The way we treat one another matters — both to those whom we encounter and in the eyes of the Creator.
May our treatment of one another be a tikkun — a rectification — for those times of strife, and may we merit witnessing the ultimate Tikkun Olam, the healing and transformation of the world. Until then, may our efforts to improve ourselves ripple outward, creating not destruction but renewal, and sanctifying this world in ways both seen and unseen.
Rabbi Ammos Chorny serves at Beth Tikvah.
Diamond/Yahalom
Myra Benedikt • Bill Benedikt
Nathaniel Ritter • Susan Ritter
Gold/Zahav
Stuart Brown • Harvey Cohen
Barbara Goldenziel • Gene Goldenziel • Ronald Kaplan
Jerry Kumin • Sarah Rockler • Jane Schi
Silver/Kesef
Je Margolis • Judit Price • Anita Shapiro • Richard Shapiro
Carol Simon • Gene Simon • Judy Zahn • Melvyn Zahn Want your name listed here? Please
Temple Shalom is Jewish education in Naples
TDeborah Rosen Fidel, JD, MAJPS Executive Director
emple Shalom is the address for top-notch Jewish learning in Naples. We are proud to offer the highest quality Jewish education for adult learners through the Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning and a wide selection of timely and engaging classes.
If you have children, you have probably already heard about the high demand for
our early childhood offerings for infants and toddlers in our preschool, and students in kindergarten through tenth grade in YESh Religious School. And now, we are thrilled to announce the opening of The Hangout, for families looking to give their school-age children an academic edge. The Hangout is a boutique suite of after-school enrichment courses for children in kindergarten through fifth grade, complete with transportation from area schools, homework help, snacks and loads of fun! Call, email or come by for a tour. There are only a few spots remaining, so don’t delay! Temple Shalom is Jewish education in Naples.
Special summer thanks and welcome back!
Stan Alliker President
would like to wish all of you a happy and healthy New Year. I would like to commend Cantor Hari Jacobson for her leadership in leading the religious services to the congregation during the summer months and providing guidance to our lay members through the weekly Parsha’s and interpretations for them and more.
Adverse trends
PJoseph Henson President
erhaps it’s because I am a mid70s guy, but the rate of change for things that are happening or being said still surprises me. Noteworthy is the growing blatancy of speech and, worse still, actions by anti-Zionists and antisemitism, over the last five years or so. Much of this seems to be tied to several influencing events. For one, at a number of our universities the funding flow from primarily five Mideastern sources has been
Alta Rockers
significant. Since 2020 these countries have contributed $4.3 billion. Donor designation for this funding is not fully transparent, but the largest two in-flows are to establish/fund departments of Middle Eastern, Arab and Islamic studies and support of Arab students enrolled in the university. While there may not be a direct correlation, this funding has seemingly resulted in pressure on universities to avoid curricula, research or meaningful restraints that might offend these donors. For example, the head of Columbia University’s academic review committee wrote an article referring to the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7 as “remarkable” and “awesome” and a resistance to “Israeli settler-colonialism and racism toward the Palestinians.” Columbia’s President
Celebrate Jewish Singer-Songwriters Sing-A-Long
SUNDAY, JANUARY 5, 2025
4:30 PM
Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center
Join
Also, a special thank you to Mitch Braun for assisting the cantor by filling in as our lay rabbi in guiding services during the summer.
Cudos to Beth Weinberg and the volunteers who are spending Wednesdays baking for Bubbie’s Bakery to be held on Nov. 24.
Please note that weekly Monday Night Bingo returned on Oct. 14.
For those of you who cannot attend regularly, I urge you to come to services when you can and be welcomed by your JCMI family!
Welcome back to Rabbi Mark Gross from the summer break and welcome his return to the Bimah. I also welcome the start of the weekly Torah Saturday Morning Study.
reports that he “had been spoken to” and told that his “language was unacceptable.” That’s it? Spoken to?
Why does it still seem there is a limited reaction to Hamas murdering innocents on Oct. 7 or the six hostages as rescuers neared? When are people going to stop saying about Hamas that “one man’s freedom fighter is another man’s terrorist.” When do we recognize bloodlust for what is?
Second, in the late 1990s a number of major universities established an academic field for settler colonial studies. Settler colonialism concerns itself with the pursuit of land and consequent displacement of a (presumed) native population by external settlers. To proponents of settler colonialism, this can include genocide of the existing population whose resistance to the settlers is justified if not encouraged. Thus, the Palestinian struggle against Israel became widely misunderstood by academic and progressive activists as the frontline in a battle against settler colonialism. Hence, slogans like “from the river to the sea” or “go back to Poland” that envision the elimination of Israel. However, only if one ignores both the written and archeological records can Jews in Israel be referred to as “settlers” or “colonizers.” This is further buttressed by the fact that for last 76 years a large Arab population continues to live and prosper in Israel.
With this festering background, the ADL — in its survey, the "Alarming Rise of Antisemitism on American College Campuses" — uncovered several disturbing facts: 44% of Jewish students report never or rarely feeling safe identifying as a Jew, an increase from 21% in 2021; 55% were physically threatened or knew someone who was threatened; and 78% say they avoid certain places or events because they are Jewish. This is unacceptable!
This distressing data indicates that university administrations and local authorities must take steps to combat these trends. In my mind, this begins with local prosecuting attorneys not dropping charges against arrested rioters and university administrators not enforcing antidiscrimination policies against their faculty, staff and students.
This column is being written before the Oct. 7 Remembrance Ceremony organized by our Jewish Federation. Given the thousands of Jews living in our Collier-Lee area, hopefully the venue will be overflowing beyond capacity as we commemorate the first anniversary of this heartbreaking assault on humanity. While I am certain that there were Christians and unaffiliated who actively participated, it is most important that Jews come forward and demonstrate their support for the Jewish people and Israel.
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Upcoming Lifelong Learning lessons
WCharles Flum President
e are called the People of the Book. We love learning about a huge variety of topics, particularly Jewish ones. Rabbi Howard Herman has some lessons to teach in NJC’s Lifelong Learning program throughout the coming year. Each talk is at 5 p.m. followed by a light supper ($10 donation) at 6 p.m. and services at 7 p.m. Lifelong Learning sessions are open to all. The next five sessions are:
Sinning for God: When do the ends justify the means? Friday, Nov. 15, 5 p.m. – How do we build a better world when we know our actions may have unintended or unavoidable economic, political or ecological consequences? What is justifiable in the pursuit of justice? Can we do anything to create the outcome we want? How far can or should we stray from the moral path in the pursuit of perceived betterment for humanity? Also, to be discussed (time permitting), in the pursuit of justice, whose law are we allowed to break, if any?
Children’s Bible stories for adults, Friday, Dec. 17, 5 p.m. – Do you
remember as a child having a favorite Bible story? Was it the story of Noah and the ark? Or was it the story of Moses bringing about the 10 plagues upon the Egyptians? Or perhaps it was the story of Queen Esther saving the day and the Jewish people to bring about Purim? When you heard the story, did someone explain to you what it meant? Biblical stories have both simplistic and complex meanings. Sometimes the complex meaning has nothing to do with the one that you were told. Come and learn about some of these stories, what they really mean, and why they're in the bible. This class will open your eyes to ideas you never dreamed were in the Bible. Angels and demons: How do Jewish, Christian and Muslim understanding of these concepts differ? Friday, Jan. 17, 5 p.m. – We don’t speak very much about angels and demons in Judaism. Do Jews believe in angels, Satan and demons? It depends upon whom you ask, but the Hebrew Bible and traditional Jewish sources have a lot to say about each of these. How do Judaism, Christianity and Islam differ when it comes to these topics. Find out in this unique class where all germane materials will be provided for your reference. Come with lots of questions about these concepts and discover how/if we differ or exhibit commonalities on some of these ideas.
What is Jewish prayer: Spirituality, discipline and reflection, Friday,
Feb. 21, 5 p.m. – Jewish spiritual expression has evolved through history from priestly animal sacrifices to standardized poetic passages. This class provides an overview in the development of Jewish prayer, as well as its philosophical and meditative intentions to express gratitude, supplication and connection to God. We'll also examine the choreography, meaning and common customs of contemporary Jewish prayer.
Jewish food and eating: Laws, ethics and customs, Friday, March 14, 5 p.m. – This class provides an overview of what Judaism has to say about food and about
eating. What exactly does “kosher” mean? Is there anything ethical (or not) about eating kosher food? (And what is gefilte fish anyway?) Who knows what “P’cha” is? What are “Gribbones,” and who has ever eaten a “Chezzel?” In addition to the religious rules, we will address the relationship between Jewish holidays and eating: which holidays are connected to particular or elaborate eating and which foods to refraining from eating. Finally, we will discuss a variety of Jewish cuisines from across the globe.
Past Member, Naples Board of Directors (2012 - 2024)
BBYO
azabbg.bbyo.org/on-demand/home
Updates from Naples and Fort Myers BBYO
By Cayla Schreier, BBYO Southwest Coordinator
After a wonderful local kickoff, our Naples BBYO teens joined their North Florida Region friends at a cool beach resort on Sunday, Sept. 8 for the NFR Fall Kickoff. Our nine teens loaded the bus early on Sunday morning to head to St. Petersburg for a fun and exciting day at a beach club, where they hung out with at the beach and pool, played pickleball, mini golf, and took out
“Why I Wear My Star,” which explained why people frequently wear their Star of David or other symbols of Judaism in the form of a necklace. Thank you to Adam and his family for hosting.
Naples BBYO will attend the Jewish Catholic Dialogue Kristallnacht Candle Lighting Ceremony on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2 p.m. at St. John’s in Naples (625 111th Ave., North). More information will be
What is BBYO?
BBYO is a diverse and inclusive Jewish youth group to encourage Jewish teens to become more immersed and interested in meaningful Jewish activities and programs. This organization accepts Jewish teens attending 8th through 12th grades of all backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender, race, denominational affiliation or socioeconomic status.
paddle boats. It was a fun experience, and we will see our friends again in Orlando on Veteran’s Day weekend for NFR’s Fall Convention.
Our teens hosted a movie night at Adam’s house. Twelve teens attended this event and watched movies, ate snacks and listened to one of our chapter board members, Mimi, present a thought-provoking presentation,
provided via email. If you have any questions about this event, please contact Yvonne at ylhflorida@gmail.com.
The teens will host a Friendsgiving Potluck in late-November. More details to follow.
Please keep an eye out for emails regarding all upcoming Naples and Fort Myers BBYO events.
Supporting our teenage Jewish community
It is crucial to engage teens post-B’nai Mitzvah age in Jewish activities. Having teens get involved in BBYO and be eager to create and confidently continue their own Jewish community within their greater Jewish communities is critical to our future.
Stand Up for Justice
The BBYO chapter of Naples has entered its 11th year of partnership with Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, Temple Shalom, Chabad of Naples and Beth Tikvah. Each organization provides financial support, volunteers and community involvement opportunities for the BBYO teens. We thank each and every one of our BBYO Alum, friends and other supporters for making this a safe and positive environment for the teens of BBYO Naples and Fort Myers.
If you know of someone who has a teen who might like to join BBYO Naples or Fort Myers or know of someone who may want to be an advisor to our chapters, please email the Southwest Coordinator, Cayla Schreier, at cschreier@bbyo.org. You can also follow us on Instagram at Mishpacha_BBG and Negevaza. Scholarships to attend BBYO conventions and summer programs are available through both Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and the Temple Shalom Men’s Club. Please contact Cayla for more information on scholarships. If you are a BBYO Alum and would like to be included in our Friends and Alumni of BBYO mailing list, please email us at mjs0821@aol.com.
Application Deadline is February 3, 2025
The Stand Up for Justice educator grant recognizes elementary, middle, and high school educators who are innovative in bringing respect for others and their differences into their activities with students in caring, impactful, and transformative ways. The grant recognizes teachers, guidance counselors, school librarians, media specialists, school psychologists, administrators, and others who create a resource for educators in any discipline to incorporate strategies that promote respect and understanding among students, countering bigotry and bullying. To apply, please visit www.jewishnaples.org For more information, please call (239) 263-4205
Charles Flum, President Jane Galler, Cantorial Soloist
Shabbat Services
Friday evenings 7 p.m.
May - August: services once a month
Sisterhood • Men’s Club Adult Education • Adult Choir
BETH TIKVAH (Conservative)
1459 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34109
(just west of Mission Square Plaza)
Phone: 434.1818
Email: office@bethtikvah.us
Website: www.bethtikvahnaples.org
Rabbi Ammos Chorny
Joseph Henson, President
Roberta Miller, Secretary
Shabbat Services
Friday evenings 6:15 p.m.
Saturday mornings 9:30 a.m.
Youth Education Adult Education Community Events
Seven members of the Maccabeats will sing and perform in a 90-minute show. Fun for the whole family!
LIVE in NAPLES!
You’ve heard them and seen their fun and entertaining music videos. Often traveling with little more than the shirts on their backs and the ties on their necks, the Maccabeats have entertained and inspired hundreds of audiences. Using nothing more than the unadulterated human voice, a clean-cut presentation and a little Jewish humor, this unique group of singers is able to connect with fans of all backgrounds and ages.
The Maccabeats’ unique offering has caught the eyes of numerous organizations and individuals throughout the world. They’ve played sold-out shows to thousands at JCCs, synagogues, Chabads, jazz clubs, festivals and theaters across five continents and over 30 states. And now…they are coming to Naples!
The Maccabeats event is part of the “Celebration of Jewish Life” program. These cultural events at Chabad of Naples have mixed seating and casual attire.
Sunday, November 10 3:00 - 4:30pm Pre-event cocktail reception at 2:00pm Chabad of Naples 1789 Mandarin Road Buy your tickets today! $36 for general admission in advance ($50 at the door)
$72 for VIP seating
$180 for pre-event reception: cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, meet-and-greet and song with Maccabeat members & VIP seating
