Jewish Book Festival, celebrating its 10th year. 15
Amazing …
TNat Ritter Federation Board Chair
he accomplishments of the past season at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples are truly amazing. The tragedy that befell Israel on Oct. 7, 2023 started off that season. Like no other season, we saw the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center host 500 people at our community solidarity gathering with an additional 200 households viewing the rally online. Jewish Federation of North America initiated the Israel Emergency Fund, which raised in excess of $860 million and has allocated almost $500 million as of July 2024 for immediate needs of Israelis. Thanks to your generosity, our community alone was able to contribute $1,067,000 to that effort!
Our goal for the 20232024 Annual Community Campaign was a challenging $1.75 million. While no easy task, under the leadership of Annual Campaign Chair Rosalee Bogo and our Financial Resource Development team, Alicia Feldman and Eduardo Avila, our campaign superseded its goal ($1.77 million), enabling our
Allocations Committee to increase allocations for this year.
The dollars raised in Naples help many local, national and international agencies worldwide and in Israel. Not only do these dollars help the needy, but they also enable Jewish Federation of North America’s boots-on-the-ground efforts throughout the world operate more efficiently and effectively.
Under the leadership of Steve Strome and the Finance/Audit Committee, the bank loan needed to finance the construction of the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center was paid in full on June 30, 2024! That is three years faster than initially planned! This accomplishment, through the early prepayment of many capital pledges by
our generous donors, resulted in the need to borrow fewer funds and pay less interest on the loan. The remaining capital pledge commitments will be utilized to fund an endowment for future capital improvements and help offset increased operational needs of the building. All these accomplishments could not have been achieved without our community seeing the need and working as one to achieve these constructive and very important goals. Our Federation and the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center is a home where our Jewish community can all have a sense of belonging. We have a home where we can feel strength in unity and share activities that unite and interest continued on page 2
“The heart can’t feel what our eyes can’t see”
By Paula Filler, JFNA National Women in Philanthropy Board Member
Ijust returned from my Jewish Federations of North America mission to Germany and Israel for the first time since Oct. 7, 2023. On this trip, our mission was to understand how our combined fundraising supports the needs of the Jewish people in both countries and what additional support is required.
My visit to Kibbutz Nir Oz is only 1.5 miles from Gaza and is in a beautiful pastoral setting. With Israeli investment in irrigation systems, residents of this community grew endless rows of fruits and vegetables. Beautiful floral gardens and flowering trees surrounded each Kibbutz home. On Oct. 6, Kibbutz Nir Oz had 400 residents. Hamas came into the Kibbutz on Oct. 7, brutally murdering 40 people and kidnapping 77 others. Over one-fourth of their community was gone in a single day. All that remains today are burned-out houses — in which several residents were burned alive — bullet-ridden doors, walls and rubble. Everything the Israelis owned was either destroyed or looted. All their farm equipment, including tractors, was stolen. The irrigation systems, built over many years, were purposely blown up. Terrorists swapped their flip-flops for the shoes of their victims. Because the victims were so severely burned, archeologists had to comb through ruins to verify human remains.
Each terrorist group had a specific village to target for slaughter, humiliation and torture. Kibbutz Nir Oz residents believed in peace; they gave jobs to the Gaza Palestinians who worked side by side with them in their fields. These same Palestinians became their attackers as they knew where each family lived and exactly
amazing...continued from page 1
us. Let’s all remember the Federation’s mission: 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.
Let’s all respect each other’s values and opinions. Let’s keep the Nina Iser Jewish
how many family members lived in each home. The terrorists specifically counted the number of people killed in each house, going back a second time — or more — if there were missing victims.
We saw the remains of a community shelter and safety rooms in several individual homes. Safety rooms were designed to protect residents from rocket attacks. The safety rooms did not have doors that could be barricaded from the inside. Therefore, these doors had to be held from the inside to keep them closed. The killers took advantage of this situation by shooting the people holding the doors closed, eventually tossing in grenades.
We visited the Nova Festival Commemoration Site and met with Paphael Shimoni, the father of Ben Shimoni, who was murdered on his third trip to
rescue music festival attendees. Hearing the heart-wrenching story of how his son made multiple trips to rescue Jews under fire, knowing that he was risking his own life, was heartbreaking. This story exemplifies who the Israelis are — their bravery
Cultural Center amazing and continue to be a united community by refraining from political advertising and wearables.
This upcoming season promises to be exciting, very busy — and I’m sure — fulfilling for all of us!
We, at your Federation, look forward to your return! Empowering Families:
Sponsored By
and their determination to protect each other and to live. There were survivors of Oct. 7, and they still need more support from us. What has been broken cannot be fixed overnight. Children who have been displaced, traumatized or orphaned need more help. Women and men who have been gang raped and tortured, both mentally and physically, need counseling — despite an acute shortage of mental health counselors. As of July 10, the 9,250 injured soldiers need not only
physical rehabilitation — many for the loss of limbs — but also mental health and employment counseling so that they can return home and earn a living. Supporting these very real human needs will take time. Some lives will never be repaired. It is our time in history, through our Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Annual Campaign contributions, to meet our communal responsibility to save Israel and the Jewish people. Our annual campaign contributions enable us to support Jews in need.
We can “see with our eyes so that we can feel with our hearts.”
THIS MONTH’S ADVERTISERS
This publication is brought to you each month thanks to the support of our advertisers. Please be sure to use their products and services, and mention that you saw their ad in Federation Star
f there is a true constant, it is change! I am taking this opportunity to share with our community some of the changes taking place at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.
First, Pat Pastorius has become our facility manager. Second, Manuel “Manny” Munoz is now our assistant facility manager. Together, they are making sure that our beautiful building is
receiving all the attention it needs in order to keep it in tip-top condition. Pastorius and Munoz are also working to meet the “set-up needs” for all the programs we will host in this building.
Jewish Federation of Greater Naples is always committed to providing proper security for everyone that comes to our building. Continuing as our daily security guard, Jason Weil provides that sense of security coverage.
Facility Manager Pat Pastorius
You may have heard about Secure Community Network (SCN) and the work that we do together with them. We have previously informed you of participating in the Live Secure Program.
Assistant Facility Manager Manny Munoz Security Guard Jason Weil
As such, John Murtaugh has been hired to serve as the Regional Security Advisor (RSA) for our community as well as the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte
Join the Naples community in addressing growing antisemitism in our schools
By Lisa Koppel and Shelly Bell, JFGN Program Committee
In these challenging times, many of us are experiencing heightened stress due to the increasing presence of antisemitism in our daily lives. As we contemplate the best ways to remain calm and support our children, navigating the information circulating in schools, on college campuses, and on social media has become particularly demanding. How can we effectively
address these challenges with our children and grandchildren?
On Sept. 8, we invite you to join us as we welcome Erica Hruby, who will provide valuable insights on managing this tense environment. Hruby will guide us in understanding how to address anti-Jewish hate and anti-Israel rhetoric that our young ones may encounter among their peers. Drawing from her
extensive experience in coaching young people and their families, as well as in promoting mental health, Hruby will share her expertise in supporting and empowering students.
With her years of involvement in Jewish education and engagement, Hruby will also help us discuss ways to keep our children informed about Jewish issues, ensuring they feel confident and
Counties and the Jewish Federation of the Gulf Coast communities. Our three communities have a consortium regarding the Live Secure Program. An official announcement will be coming from President & National Director of Secure Community Network Michael Masters.
Jewish Federation of Greater Naples is committed to growing and changing to find ways to best serve and best meet our community’s needs.
capable of discussing Judaism with others. We encourage you to invite your friends to join us in this important conversation, so we can learn from each other and stand together in support.
Please see the ad on page 2 and register for this free program held at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center and via Zoom on Sunday, Sept. 8 at 10:30 a.m.
A sweet way to start the new year!
*Complimentary tickets available to anyone who has not joined us before Previous attendees may purchase tickets for $100 per person
Please contact Charles Flum at 239-316-8611
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’s Philanthropy
• Youth Activities Committee –sponsoring youth education and scholarships for Jewish Summer Camp and Israel Experiences
Oil on canvas art classes with Lee Kaye
By Reneé Bialek, Program Director
Have you always wanted to be a proficient oil on canvas painter? 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, which begin in September, will be held on Mondays from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost is $40 per 2-hour session* (see schedule and registration links below).
Bring a favorite photo to copy onto canvas as well as the following supplies:
All other supplies can be purchased at Michael’s Art Store.
*a donation from these classes will benefit Jewish Federation of Greater Naples
Art in September and October
Sept. 9, 16, 23 & 30; Oct. 14, 21 & 28 Register for one or all classes at https:// JFGN.regfox.com/art-with-lee-in-sept.
Art in November and December
Nov. 11, 18 & 25; Dec. 9, 16, 23 & 30 Register for one or all classes at https:// JFGN.regfox.com/art-with-lee-novdec.
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
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)
As Summer Winds Down, Roaches Still Looking To Make A Mess Of Things!
by Anna Wallace, Truly Nolen
With Labor Day weekend approaching and one more month to have a nice family picnic on your porch, the last thing Southwest Florida homeowners want to worry about are roaches overtaking their family time by making a mess of things!
Cockroaches typically have six spiny legs and two long antennae. American cockroaches prefer hot weather, are able to fly, and are found where food processing and storage take place. German cockroaches are mainly seen during the night typically brought inside hitchhiking on belongings, luggage, boxes and packages. You can find their droppings which look like black pepper below sinks, cracks and crevices. Bacteria from these excrement droppings have been known to trigger asthma, outbreaks of illness and allergies in many people. Both American and German cockroaches are found in homes typically around kitchens and bathrooms.
A very common pest, cockroaches 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. Cockroaches have lived off the bare essentials with few changes since their creation millions of years ago. They have become such widespread pests because they thrive on very little. Contrary to popular belief,
they aren't simply attracted to messy households, although that will extend their stay. They simply require three things: water, food, and warm shelter.
In addition, cockroaches typically prefer damp, warm places and usually reproduce quickly in appliances, garages, sewers, attics, storerooms and similar locations, and then enter the home from outside breeding sites. For every one you see there can be many, many more hiding and multiplying behind your walls.
Cockroaches can get into the cleanest of living spaces because in most situations, we unknowingly bring them home. They can be found behind refrigerators, sinks and stoves, as well as under floor drains and inside of motors and major appliances. They are difficult to spot during the day and can sense the tiniest amount of movement from their highly sensitive front and back antennae. If you can't find any of them during the day, check cupboards and pantries for their droppings.
Cockroaches affect more people than any other insect. They vomit partly-digested food materials and continually defecate while eating and pose significant health hazards by transmitting diseases (bacillary dysentery, typhoid fever, cholera, polio, amoebic
dysentery, urinary-tract infections, diarrhea, and infectious hepatitis). The debris created by cast-off cockroach skins, dead bodies and droppings can aggravate allergies, especially in children and sensitive individuals. Furthermore, contact with cockroach allergens can cause mild to severe rashes, other allergic reactions and in extreme cases death from asthma attacks.
Some ways to prevent an outbreak before you may need a pest control professional include eliminating water (do not let water stand in sinks and eliminate outside collection areas), eliminating food sources (dispose garbage properly and wipe off counter tops often), and eliminate harborages (discard unnecessary cardboard boxes and pull mulch away from your home). By faithfully following these steps, you can potentially lessen your chances of this foul insect making themselves at home!
(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 the roach services we provide, please visit https://trulynolen.com/pest-control/roaches/.)
Your campaign dollars at work
By Rosalee Bogo, Annual Community Campaign Chair
In my article that was published in the July-August Federation Star , I expressed so much excitement sharing that we had not only reached, but exceeded, the 2024 Annual Community Campaign goal. Together we raised $1,770,000. In addition, we successfully raised $1,067,000 for the Israel Emergency Campaign. What a season this has been!
In that previous article, I referred to our allocations process and what a challenge it is to answer the needs requested by local and overseas partners. As we bring this campaign to a close, I want to go a bit more in depth so you can see where these dollars are dispersed. The 2024 Allocations Committee had $600,000 to work with. Of that total, $340,300 was allocated for local needs. Another $122,000 was allocated for overseas, Israel and national organizations. Additionally, Jewish Federations of North America has a core assessment requested of each Federation. Our commitment is $137,762. The total request from all the agencies was $764,892. We are very transparent in reporting who gets funds and how they are used. Seventy percent of money raised goes for programs and program support. Fourteen percent goes to fundraising and 16% goes for overhead. The sidebar to this article lists the beneficiaries, and I will share how it is used.
The large synagogues get money for their religious school and camp scholarships. The smaller synagogues get assistance for their community programing. Baker Senior Center gets funds for geriatric case management, and we specifically provide for the Holocaust survivors, a practice that is a priority of this Federation.
We strongly support the work of the Holocaust Museum and Cohen Education Center as they promote more programs for students combating antisemitism and educate the community on the history of the Holocaust. The Jewish War Veterans are also of importance for our support.
BBYO, a youth organization that has almost 50 teens attending their programs, is supported with holiday programming, Shabbat services and a Shabbat dinner bringing them together, as are the Jewish students at FGCU. With what is going on at the universities, this is even more important. These are but a few of the local agencies our allocated dollars help.
Also of great importance to our community is our support of overseas needs. Yad Lakashish is a workplace for the poor elderly Jews from the former Soviet Union. They work on arts and crafts that are sold in their gift shop. This provides
them with a workplace, transportation to work and food. The beautiful mazuzot around our building and hanging on our office doors were all made there. Agencies in Israel educate immigrant children preparing them for Israeli life and to be in the army. Neve Michael is a residential home for abused children who are referred by local law enforcement agencies. Neve Michael also has the only teenage girls’ emergency center in the region. Many of our lay leadership team have personally visited these sites and have seen the need firsthand. Please feel free to ask us about it!
As our Naples community continues to grow, so do the needs within the
community. The needs also continue to grow overseas, especially in Israel, where the war has created complex, intense and emergent issues that Jewish Federation is uniquely poised to address. We must prepare to take on the challenge of making our Annual Community Campaign successful again next season. The people we help and the partner organizations we support depend on us. We look forward to kicking off the 2025 Annual Community Campaign on Jan. 8 and making this year’s results the most successful one to date!
Many of you return to Naples in September, and you will find a lot going on at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. We look forward to your return.
Local programs and beneficiary agencies
• Annual Community-wide Chanukah Celebration and Menorah Lighting
• Financial needs-based scholarships for Jewish sleep-away camp and for Israel experience
• The Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center
• Israel & Overseas Committee
• Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival
• Human Needs Award
• Jewish Community Relations Council
• Jewish Congregation of Marco Island
• Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida
• Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance (JRCA)
• Jewish Young Professionals of Greater Naples
• Jewish War Veterans Post #202
• Men’s Cultural Alliance (MCA)
• Mix & Mingles: 40-50
• Naples Jewish Congregation
• Patricia J. Adkins Youth Leadership Award
• Stand up for Justice Award
• Temple Shalom
• Women’s Cultural Alliance (WCA)
National, overseas and in Israel
• American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC)
• American Friends of Leket Israel
• Anti-Defamation League
• Birthright Israel
• Ethiopian National Project (ENP)
• Friends of the Arava Institute\
• Hillel International
• Jewish Agency For Israel (JAFI)
• Jewish Federations of North America
• Jewish National Fund
• Neve Michael
• Sapir Community Center, Kfar Saba
• World ORT
• Yad LaKashish
Rosalee Bogo
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, October 3rd | 10:30 a.m.
Moorings Park Grande Lake 7410 Little Lane, Naples, FL 34105
RSVP by October 1st by calling 239-842-2558, visiting MooringsPark.org/Events, or scanning the QR code.
Unable to attend? Join our webinar on Friday, October 4th at 10:30 a.m. To register, visit MooringsPark.org/Webinar.
The 2024 Annual Community Campaign posts both record and goal breaking results
We are so pleased to announce this milestone year where we exceeded our fundraising goals! The results are $1,770,000 versus our goal of $1,750,000.
We are also proud to announce that, since October, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples has raised $1,062,000 for the Israel Emergency Campaign. These
Sally Aaron
Jean Abels
Cheryl and Murray Abrams
Sheri and Steve Abrams
Kathy Abrams
Claire Acitelli
Judy and Neil Adelman
Leslie and Sanford Aderson
Irene Adler
Sunny and Jonathan Adler
Doris Adlestein
Nancy and Joseph Adolph
Sheryl and Melton Affrime
Sheila and Howard Agranat
Brenna and Robert Agrast
Belle and Ronald Agronin
Susan and Aron Ain
Marcy Aizenshtat
Barbara and Hymie Akst
Martha and Benjamin Alalouf
Ed and Cheryl Alexander
Cheryl and Warren Alifeld
Sheryl and Andy Altman
Felicia and Kenneth Anchor
Eleanor and Walter Angoff
Carol and Lesley Appel
Helen Aron
Elizabeth Dickerman and Richard Arons
Carol and Joseph Atkin
Debra Antzis and Chad Atkins
Kathie and Arthur Baldadian
Barbara and Ronald Balser
Gayle Levy and Martin Barber
Judy Liff and Barker
Joyce and Alan Barocas
Phyllis Barolsky
Jacqueline and Bruce Barron
Marsha and Mark Barsman
Wynne and David Baruch
Ellen and Donald Baseman
Stacey and Franklin Baum
Sheila (z"l) and Alvin Becker
Roberta Jo and Robert Belin
Shelly and Jason Bell
Susan and Carl Bellows
Amy Belluck
Judith and Donald Belmont
Elissa and Albert Benchimol
Lea and Michael Bendes
Judy and Bruce Bendoff
Myra and William Benedikt
Constance and Stephen Berger
Silvia and Herbert Berkeley
Sheldon Berkle
Inna and Paul Berkovich
Emily and Jay Berkowitz
Mardelle Berman
Harriet and Louis Berneman
William Bernie
Phyliss and Robert Bernstein
Rita Bernstein
Stephanie and David Bernstein
Barbara Bertman
unprecedented numbers represent the incredible level of generosity within the Greater Naples community.
We also want to acknowledge 2024 Annual Campaign Chair Rosalee Bogo who worked tirelessly on behalf of JFGN. Her experience and leadership helped to steward the campaign to achieve these record-breaking results.
Goldie and Louis Bertone
Shirley and Marshall Besikof
Paula Price and Stuart Biegel
Ruth and Bruce Bier
Colleen and Grant Billings
Joanne and James Biltekoff
Robin and Sheldon Birnhak
Paula and Michael Blachman
Pamela and Mark Blaskey
Ilene and Jake Blaz
Beverly and Andrew Blazar
Peter Bloom
Margery and Michael Bluestein
Beth and Albert Blumberg
Joan Meltzer Blumkin and Burton Blumkin
Beth Grossman and Richard Bobrow
Linda and Jan Bock
Rosalee and Jerry Bogo
Theodore and Maria Bollt
Family Foundation
Laurie and Roberto Bollt
Patti and Steve Boochever
Betsy Borden
Arlene and Arthur Boshnack
Nancy and Edward Boyer
Libbie Bramson
Jeanne and Neil Braverman
Rhonda Brazina
Mona and Jay Brodsky
Enid and Eugene Bronstein
Elaine and Robert Brotman
Peggy and Kenneth Brown
Diane Solomon Brown and Stuart Brown
Judy and Gary Bruce
Melvin Bubrick
Erica and James Buchweitz
Marina Youngblood and Robert Cahners
Barb and Thomas Carlstrom
Linda and Daniel Carp
Brian Cassell
Doralu and Frank Chanen
Adrienne and Ken Charak
Jeanie and Wayne Charness
Elaine Chase
Ellen and Lawrence Chernikoff
Marsha and Robert Cherry
Andy Cherry
Jane Kessler and Anthony Clark
Lois Cohen
Kenneth Cohen
Katie and Harvey Cohen
Nancy and Ronald Cohen
Tracey and David Cohen
Susan Cohen
Marla and Edward Cohen
Robin and Robert Cohen
Suzanne and Norman Cohn
Celia Deifik and Mark Cohn
Karen Cohn
Nancy and Edwin Colodny
Our gratitude and thanks also go to: Lion of Judah Co-Chairs Gail Smith and Estelle Price; Pomegranate Chair Debra Antzis; the entire Campaign Cabinet of Solicitors; and our Board of Directors. Without this dedicated group of volunteers, the ability to achieve our core mission of helping the Jewish people here at home, in Israel, and in 69 countries
Annual Campaign Donors:
Gary Columbus
Jeffrey Cooper
Susan and David Cort
Ann and Bradford Cowen
Paula and Ronald Creed
Myra and Peter Cristall
Barbara Ann and Leonard Cutler
Deborah and James Dallet
Mitchell Dannenberg
Marcia and David Danoff
Lynn Katz Danzig and Allen Danzig
Terri and Michael David
Shellie Specter and Robert Davidson
Sheira Greenwald and Elihu Davison
Susan and Phil Deanw
Cassie and Max Deifik
Maris Delano
Shirley and Robert Delong
David Dembo
Linda Denning
Helene and Elliot Derfler
Johnna Dettis
Sharon and Alan Deutch
Karen and Stanley Deutsch
Stephen Goldenberg and Mike Dias
Deborah and Paul Doppelt
Amanda and Paul Dorio
Amy Perwien and Brian Dorn
Linda Laughland and Dan Downing
Barbara Druckman
DeeDee Remenick and Benjamin Dubin
Julie and Steve Dunlap
Sandy and Stephen Earl
Barbara and Marvin Easton
Shelley and Steven Einhorn
Lee Eisenberg
June and Steven Eisner
Kathy and Ron Emanuel
Phyllis and Ronald Ettinger
Sandi and Gary Faber
Ellen and George Fantus
Cipora Brown and Steven Feiner
Barbara Cohen and Martin Feins
Florence Feinson
Maureen and David Feinstein
Susan and Jeffrey Feld
Stephen Feldblum
Alicia and Michael Feldman
Marilyn and Stuart Fenton
Genine Macks Fidler and Josh Fidler
Marcia and Michael Filiurin
Paula and Ronald Filler
Judith Finer Freedman and Jeremy Freedman
Pella and Jack Fingersh
Marlene and Arnan Finkelstein
Elizabeth and Harry Fischman
Nancy Feldman and
around the world would not have been possible.
Most importantly we thank and appreciate every one of the 912 donors whose contributions helped us achieve this significant goal. Every single household played a role in our community’s success!
Keith Fishbein
Gail Fishbein
Eloyse Fisher
Marci and Stephen Fisher
Linda and Michael Fiterman
Gerald Flagel
Jennifer and Marc Fleischer
Margot Jackler and Paul
Flowerman
Evelyn and Andre Fogarasi
Virginia and Peter Foreman
Ellen Frankel
Marles and Leland Frankman
Pamela and Howard Freedman
Irene and Zachary Freedman
Lisa and Sidney Freund
M. Jane and Lester Friedberg
Judith and Samuel Friedland
Myra and Mort Friedman
Mary Ann and Melvin Friedman
Marilyn and Bruce Friedman
Carol and Clifford Friedman
Debra Heil and Alan Galbut
Susan and Dan Gallagher
Arthur Gans
Susan and Robert Garelick
Ilene and David Garfield
Nancy Garfien
Nancy and Darryl Garfinkel
Dean Garfinkel
Phyllis and Philip Garon
Peggy and John Garson
Deborah and Gary Gartenberg
Donna Geller
Jan and Marc Gerber
Linda and Barry Gersick
Molly and Kenneth Getnick
Heidi and Howard Gilbert
Sheryl and Frederick Gilbert
Judy and Kenneth Gilman
Sydney Gilman
Marlene and Stephen Ginsberg
Cheryl Ginsburg
Alice and Jack Gish
Ellen Bohn Gitlitz and Mark Gitlitz
Joanna Scalora and Terry Glaser
Laurie and Bruce Glazier
Judith and Bruce Godfrey
Susan Gohl
Tricia and Ron Gold
Barbara and Marc Goldberg
Peggy and Sheldon Goldberg
Willa and Stephen Goldberger
Donna and Richard Goldblatt
Ann and Michael Goldblatt
Marilyn and Barry Goldenberg
Laurence Goldenberg
Barbara and Gene Goldenziel
Cindi and Harold Goldfine
Melvin Goldfine
Carol and Benjamin Goldman
Jan Goldman
Susan Goldsmith
Marcia Cohodes and
David Goldsteen
Diane and Robert Goldstein
Donna and Avrum Goldstein
Diana and Kenneth Goldstein
Marina Berkovich and Alexander Goldstein
Melissa Chalfin and
Ramon Gonzalez
Hannah and Lawrence Goodman
Susan and Bernard Goodman
Sandra Gordon
Ellen and Michael Gordon
Helene and Alan Gordon
Jill Gordon
Glenda and Kenneth Gordon
Debbie Keever and Ronald Gould
Anne Grandis
Nancy and Henry Greenberg
Marcia and Paul Greenberg
Carole Greene
Diane and Neil Greene
Heather and Jonathan Greenfield
Lenore Greenstein
Sondra and Thomas Greer
Arlene Griff
Elaine and Michael Griver
Rabbi Mark and Carol Gross
Ellen and Ronald Gross
Margaret and Lawrence
Grossgold
Rissa Grossman
Linda Grusin
Sue and Jan Guben
Cissy Gundlack
Lois Lourie and Michael Gurtman
Rachel and Howard Gutman
Susan and Thomas Hager
Owen Hahn
Ronna and Ronald Hain
Hamico Inc
Ben Hammel
Stan Handman
Orna Hanison
Dede and Samuel Harris
Sandra and Joel Harris
Richard Hart
Paula Brody and Merrill Hassenfeld
Robert Hayum
Sandra Hechler
Evelyn and Larry Hecht
Lynn and David Heiman
Joy Heller
Lee and Joseph Henson
Denise Herskovitz
Linda and Richard Hertzberg
Sylvia and Ralph Heyman
Carol and Steve Himmelstein
Paula and Mike Himowitz
Carol and Burton Hirsch
Linda and Henry Hofbauer
Joan and Martin Holzinger
Lynn and Dave Horowitch
Batina Houghtaling
Todah Rabah!
Israel Emergency Campaign
To date, Greater Naples Jewish Federation has raised $1,067,000 for the Israel Emergency Campaign. These funds have provided housing, assisted in evacuation, trauma relief, emergency medical services, and other support for frontline communities.
Robert Abels
Rhoda Abramovitz
Cheryl and Murray Abrams
Jean Adams
Doris Adlestein
Nancy and Joseph Adolph
Sheila and Howard Agranat
Cheryl and Ed Alexander
Susanna Alis
Sherry Allen
Carol and Dov Almog
Keith Alter
Karen Orkin-Altfest and Stuart Altfest
Sudy and Thomas Altholz
Norman Altman
Felicia and Kenneth Anchor
Eleanor and Walter Angoff
Debbie and Michael Annes
Elizabeth Dickerman and Richard Arons
Diane and Carl Aronson
Abbas Asli
Jeanette Atkinson
Susan and Sol Awend
Gayle Levy and Martin Barber
Barbara Barnard
Julie Barocas
Phyllis Barolsky
Rochelle and Steven Bartelstone
Wynne and David Baruch
Debi and Michael Bass
Debra Bates
Stacey and Franklin Baum
Doris Baum
Anne Beacken
Carol and Howard Becker
Shelly and Jason Bell
Judith and Donald Belmont
Lea and Michael Bendes
Myra and William Benedikt
Barbara and Bruce Berger
Constance and Stephen Berger
Jeanne and Myron Berger
Shelly Berkle
Ira Berlin
Monique and Howard Berlinger
Lisa and Alan Bernick
Rita Bernstein
Goldie and Louis Bertone
Colleen and Grant Billings
Ellen and Robert Blank
Pamela and Mark Blaskey
Joanne Blau
Beverly and Andrew Blazar
Patti Bloom
Pamela and Robby Bloom
Janet and David Blum
Ellen and Stephen Blum
Beth and Albert Blumberg
Joan Meltzer Blumkin and Burton Blumkin
Rosalee and Jerry Bogo
Jill and Edward Bolner
Lydia Bond
Patti and Steve Boochever
Susan Bookbinder
Lori Wald and James Bradlin
Barbara and George Brandes
Eileen Bream
Mona and Jay Brodsky
Paige Brodsky
Kim and Joseph Bross
Jeffrey Brotman
Michele and Jeff Brotman
Lynn and Robert Brown
Judy and Gary Bruce
Erica and James Buchweitz
The generous donations from the individuals listed below have allowed us to monetize our support for our brothers and sisters in Israel during this unprecedented and incredibly difficult time. This war is unlike any we have seen before — and so are the needs.
What we are funding
• Food and financial assistance
• Support for frontline communities
• Immediate cash grants to all victims of terror
• Trauma relief and psychological care
Israel Emergency Campaign donors
Michael Feinman
Nancy Burgess
Sandy and Alan Burton
Deena Caplan
Barb and Thomas Carlstrom
Barbara Carocci
Howard Carr
Iris and George Cavallo
Suzannah and David Chalick
Doralu and Frank Chanen
Phyllis and Joseph Chartor
Elaine Chase
Marsha and Robert Cherry
Michael Chesman
Michelle and Lee Christides
Nan and Robert Ciralsky
David Citrin
Jane Kessler and Anthony Clark
Carol Clarke
Katie and Harvey Cohen
Eileen and Stephen Cohen
Neil Cohen
Susan Cohen
Rich Cohen
Morton Cohn
Celia Deifik and Mark Cohn
Mimi and Burton Cohn
Eva Colligan
Pamela Collins
Nancy and Edwin Colodny
Debbie Cooper
Rebecca Cornacchia
Frances Cornelius
Mary Grace Covington
Kathleen Cullen
Marcia Custer
Lisa Dacey
Lynn Katz Danzig and Allen Danzig
Michael and Terri David
Marilyn and Joel Davidson
Shellie Specter and Robert Davidson
Patricia Davis
Gail Frieder and James Davison
Susan and Phil Dean
Judy and Douglas Degelsmith
Celia Deifik
Maris Delano
David Dembo
Linda Denning
Carolyn Derobbio
Karen and Stanley Deutsch
Douglas Dever
Sandy Diamond
Susan Austrian and Mark Dillon
Anita Dinerstein
Deborah and Paul Doppelt
Bernardo Dorfman
Gayle and Marty Dorio
Deborah Early
Barbara and Marvin Easton
Ellen and Aaron Edelstein
Judy and Howard Edison
Leonard Egdish
Shelley and Steven Einhorn
Saul Eisenberg
Kelly Ellis
Vladimir Elzon
Kathy and Ron Emanuel
Pam Epstein
Geraldine Feldman and
David Epstein
Sandra and Irving Epstein
Sandi and Gary Faber
Judy and Kleinfeld Fant
Michael Farrell
Kalmin Faye
Ellen and Michael Fedida
Debra and Steven Feingold
Barbara Cohen and Martin Feins
Florence Feinson
Maureen and David Feinstein
Stephen Feldblum
Leslie and Ed Feldman
Marlene and William Feldman
Genine Macks Fidler and Josh Fidler
Susan Filip
Marcia and Michael Filiurin
Paula and Ronald Filler
Alexandra and Sabin Fine
Elizabeth and Harry Fischman
Beth and Jonathan Fishbane
Nancy Feldman and Keith Fishbein
Marci and Stephen Fisher
Nancy Flatau
Jennifer and Marc Fleischer
Margot Jackler and Paul Flowerman
Marilyn Flynn
Heidi Foran
Louise and Spencer Forman
Ellen Frankel
Lynn and Eric Frankel
Joy Ammerman and
Denis Franks
Irene and Zachary Freedman
Jane and Lester Friedberg
Myra and Mort Friedman
Linda Friedman
Jo Fuller
Deborah Gabel
Deborah and Donald Gabel
Ellen Gabriel
Patricia and Robert Gage
Bill Galas
Debra Heil and Alan Galbut
Jane Galler
Elisabeth Galotto
Frank Gambino
Dean Garfinkel
Judith and Martin Gauthier
Margaret Geller
Jan and Marc Gerber
Molly and Kenneth Getnick
Ellen and Michael Gilberg
Karen and Thomas Gilbertson
Maxine and Paul Gilson
Marlene and Stephen Ginsberg
Alice and Jack Gish
Ellen Bohn Gitlitz and Mark Gitlitz
Margie and Andrew Glincher
Judith and Bruce Godfrey
Valerie Crown and Robert Goetz
Mark Goetz
Barbara and Marc Goldberg
Jeri Hall and Theodore Goldberg
Laurence Goldenberg
Barbara and Gene Goldenziel
Margo Golder
Carol and Benjamin Goldman
Frances Goldman
Susan Miller and Hilly Goldman
Marcia Cohodes and David Goldsteen
Diana and Kenneth Goldstein
Sandra and Robert Goldstein
Diane and Robert Goldstein
Marina Berkovich and Alexander Goldstein
Maria Goldstein
Lynn Gonchar
Melissa Chalfin and Ramon Gonzalez
Helen and James Good
Esther Goodacre
• Emergency medical services and healthcare
• Targeted assistance to vulnerable populations
• Local efforts and volunteers
Arline and Ronald Kaplan
Jenny and Melvin Kaplan
Hannah and Lawrence Goodman
Cary and David Goodman
Monica and Allan Goodwin
Ellen and Michael Gordon
Jill P Gordon
Helene and Alan Gordon
Glenda and Kenneth Gordon
Peter Graffman
Mary Ellen and Thomas Graney
Doug Grant
Nancy and Henry Greenberg
Carolyn Greenberg
Carole Greene
Diane and Neil Greene
Sherry and Howard Greenfield
Merel and Robert Greenfield
Lenore Greenstein
Elaine and Michael Griver
Glen Gronlund
Rissa Grossman
Debbie and Joel Grossman
Cissy Gundlack
Rachel and Howard Gutman
Lorene and Mark Gutman
Ronna and Ronald Hain
Claudia Hammon
Orna Hanison
Jean Hantman
Sandra and Joel Harris
Sharyn and Lawrence Harris
Mike Harris
Lindsay Haug
Joan Weinberg and
Alan Haymes
Robert Hayum
Sandra Hechler
Barbara and John Heffer
Joy Heller
Jody and Bruce Hellman
Robin and John Hendricksen
Mary Hendzel
Lee and Joseph Henson
Leslie and Robert Herenstein
Deborah Pizer Hermalyn and Lawrence Hermalyn
Flory and Steven Herman
Rosalind and Morris Herstein
Sue and William Heyman
Scott Hirsch
Martin Hirschfield
Shielagh Hochberg
Kenneth Hodsdon
Lynn Horowitch and David Horowitch
Susan and Michael Horowitz
Sheldra and Lawrence Horwitz
Amy and Ron Iles
Stephen Iser
Wendy and Larry Israelite
Judythe and Martin Isserlis
Heidi and Donald Ivener
Gail Jackson
Elizabeth and Alan Jaffe
Brenda and Ira Jaffe
Fern and Andrew Jaffe
Diane and Barry Jarett
Peter Jenks
Janet and Andy Juster
Barbara and Steve Kahn
Nancy Kahn
Sandy and Brian Kamin
Elaine and Fredric Kamin
Gail and Daniel Kamm
Merrylee and Joseph Kandel
Ruth and Barry Kane
Arlene and Ken Kapilow
Patricia and Joshua Kaplan
Frances Kaplan
Nancy Kaplan
Steven Karbel
Brian Karbel
Judith and Wayne Kargher
Patricia and Richard Karpeles
Dianne and Andrew Karpman
Lois and Jack Kassel
Tammy and Brian Katz
Susan and Elliott Katz
Fran and Steve Katz
Debbie and Sandy Katz
Lisa and Dale Katz
Michael Katzenbach
Patricia and Patrick Keating
Laurie Keegan
Joey Kehoe
Edith and John Keller
Charlene and Gordon Kerner
Lawrence and Claudette Kessler
Amy Sweet Kessler
Peggy and Ron Kestenbaum
Ildi Rose Kiley
Pam Kirby
Mary Swartz and Charles Kiven
Jane and Douglas Kleinfeld
Ellen and Robert Kliman
Terri and Stuart Kline
Roz Travis and Matthew Koch
Deborah and Gary Kohler
Lisa and Robert Koppel
Gail Koppelman
Toby and Herbert Kosloff
Michael Krakow
David Krasner
Barbara and Allen Kressman
Fran Kroll
Gracia Kuller
Beverly and Neale Kuperman
William Kupersmith
Barbara and Ira Kushnir
Mary Lambert
Lois Lane Weiss
Iris and Alan Langman
Bernard Lashinsky
Lisa and Harold Lauber
Charles Lax
Helaine and Stewart Lazow
Rise Mattler and Mike Leary
Bonnie and Richard Lechtner
Dana and Paul Lefkowitz
Barbara and Gary Lefkowitz
Arlene and Zvi Leibovich
Midge Leinwand
Joyce and Robert Lempert
Dennis Lerner
Helene and Elliot Lerner
Charles Lerner
Briana Leschen
Catherine Anne Levert
Enid and Peter Levi
Arlene Levin
Bonnie and Barry Levin
Maureen and Michael Levin
Rita Green and David Levin
Linda and David Levine
Hilda and Martin Levine
Peggy and Howard Levinton
Eric Levitt
Judith and Mayer Levitt
Janina Levy
Mark Liberman
Marsha Lichtman
Harriet and Merlin Lickhalter
Jill and Jeffrey Liebson
Anne Schuchman and Stephen Light
Jane and Richard Linderman
Rebeca and David Linz
Flo and Roger Lipitz
Carol and Herbert Lipson
Ileen Malitz and Michael Long
Suzanne Low
James Lowe
Katrin and Philip Lubars
Judy and Frohm Lutvack
Elizabeth Lynn
Deb and Roger Magro
Lisa and Richard Mair
Paula and Robert Maisel
Susan Koeppel and John Maloney
Andee and Kenneth Marcus
Marci and Howard Margolis
Ida and Jeffrey Margolis
Paulette and Edward Margulies
Martin Salomon Morton and Gustel Schreiber Morton
Foundation
Sheryl and Steven Matheson
Suzanne McAlpine
Shelley and Stephen McCloskey
Thomas McCulley
Linda Hamburger and Paul Mead
Stuart Melnick
Lillian and Allen Menkin
Corrine and Jon Merksamer
Carol and Stuart Mest
Joyce Mettelman
Rochelle and Samuel Miller
Rabbi Adam and Jennifer
Siegal-Miller
Victoria Miller
Randi and Kenneth Miller
Robin and Andy Mintz
Scott Mirowitz
Elaine and Jay Moorin
Moorings Park
Heather Moosnick
Marsha and Joel Moranz
Jeanne and Jeffrey Morgenstern
Ricky and Lewis Morse
Jacqueline Mortman
Judy and Jeffrey Morton
Anna Moskowitz
Rita Moskowitz
Joyce and Paul Moskowitz
Karen and Neil Moss
Adele Hackerman and Vito Luceno
David Mudrick
Ellyn Myers
Barbara and Howard Nahmias
Lynn Nashban
Eve and Charles Naumoff
Louis Naviasky
Lilly and Michael Nekhamkin
Laura Neugebauer
New Hope Ministries, Inc
Brandon Nichols
Nancy and John Nittolo
Gail and Les Nizin
North Naples United
Methodist Church
Frances and Robert Nossen
Jose Nunez
Cynthia Judge Nusbaum and Mark Nusbaum
Gary Nussbaum
Nili Olay
Frances Olick
Carol and David Orloff
Judith Palay
Suzanne Paley
Karen and Gerald Pam
Lesa and Fred Pammer
Sharon Pariser
Jeani Park
Roxanne Parker
Suzanne Paul
Jeanne and Melvin Pelletz
Freddi and Alan Peltz
Judith and Benjamin Peltz
Jane and James Perman
Joyce Peterson
Anna and Michael Pierce
Elaine and Allan Pilver
Susan and Joel Pittelman
Iris and Steve Podolsky
Terri Polacheck
Rochelle Pollens
Donna and Salvatore Pontillo
Stephanie and David Portman
Karen and Curtis Posner
Debbie Laites and Ben Post
Amy Prchal
Verna Prentice
Alyse Pribish
Estelle and Stuart Price
Judit and Richard Price
Linda and Joe Pruell
Susan and Jack Rabin
Andrew Radding
Judie Raiford
Sandy Randall
Elaine Rapoport
Estelle Rauch
Betty and Karen Recht
Sheryl Regester
June Streisand and John Reiches
Patricia Reilly
Sue and Ken Reiver
Kathy Renas
Ilene and James Rich
Wendy and Gerald Richman
Suzanne Richmond
Alice Richter
Mae Riefberg
Barbara and Louis Ritter
Joan and Sherwin Ritter
Cecile Rivel
Laura and Daniel Robbins
Carole Roberts
Jennifer Deutsch and Kenneth Roller
Jane and Michael Rollins
Ellaine and Richard Rosen
Augusta Rosenauer
Linda and Kim Rosenberg
Donna and Alan Rosenberg
Melissa Rosenberg
Harlene and Marc Rosenberg
Margo and Fred Rosenfeld
Lila Corn and Marc Rosenweig
Gloria and Lyle Rosenzweig
Morjgan Rahbanoff-Ross and Norman Ross
Marilyn Ross
Ross Lanier & Deifik, P.A.
Sandra and Ronald Roth
Barbara Roth
Sandra Ann and Fredric Roth
Karin Roth
Judith and Kenneth Rotskoff
Luba and Alberto Rotsztain
Nan and Dimitry Roytberg
Midge and Stephen Rozen
Froym Rozenboym
James Rozzi
Wendy and Richard Rubin
Mary Rubin
David Rubin
Marguerite and Joseph Rubin
Terry and David Rubin
Sugar Rubin
Debby and Frank Rudy
Jean Erlbaum and Richard Rumelt
Sharon and Peter Russell
Mary Sabel
Sharon and David Sandler
Sandra and Charles Sanfilippo
Linda and Sidney Sapakie
Marc Saperstein
Debra Sartori
Laurie and Ronald Schacht
Sue and David Schaffel
Karen Scheck
Linda and Shepard Shepard
Miriam and Paul Scherman
Maurice Schneider
Katherine and Michael Schneider
Anne Schnesel
Deborah and Stephen Schreier
Fran Orlofsky and Mike Schriml
Caroline and William Schulhof
Joan Van Berg and Joel Schulman
Judy Copeland Schulman and Mark Schulman
Eileen and Alvin Schwartz
Erika and Robert Schwartz
Arlene Schwartz
Elaine and Ira Schwartz
Denise Schwartzman
Dorothy Schwebel
Phyllis Seaman
Harry Sears
Melissa Hughes and Christopher Sebes
Susan Seiden
Lulu and Bernie Seidman
Ronda Seifer-Walis
Millie and James Sernovitz
Roberta Shade
Arlene and Donald Shapiro
Joel Shapiro
Judith Shapiro
Paula Sharfman
Jane and Paul Shaw
Gail and Peter Sherer
Carol and Bruce Sherman
Jackie and Phil Sherman
Jeffrey Shernoff
Susan and Mark Sherwin
Arlene and Samuel Shlesinger
Tussy and Neil Shnider
Merle and Lawrence Lawrence
Iris Shur
Alexander Shvartsman
Rita and Larry Sibrack
Barbara and Lloyd Sigel
Carol Kaplan and Alan Silbovitz
Cathy and Scott Silver
Sheryl Silverman
Andrea and Greg Silvershein
Jamie Silverstein
Ellen and Ed Silverstone
Linda and Marc Simon
Tina and Douglas Sinetar
Kevin Sinetar
Betty and Norman Singer
Linda and Jordy Sitnick
Karen Sloane
Robin and David Small
Deborah and Peter Smith
Sally Nimoityn Smith
Gail and Russell Smith II
Arlene and Michael Sobol
Susie and Richard Sokolik
Renee and Leslie Sokoloff
Susan and Richard Sokolov
Ashley and Anthony Solomon
Eli and Teri Solomon
Nancy Glick and Randall Solomon
Maurisa Solomon
Philecia Soltz
Judy Sommerfeld
Miriam and Gerald Span
Sheryl and Lee Spielman
Judi and Dan Spintman
Harriet Spirer
David Squarer
Barbara and Jeffrey Steckler
Joyce Steckman
Margo Stein
Marion Stein
Michele and Richard Stern
Mindy and Jay Sterns
Vicki and Jay Stoller
Karen Stone
Barbara and Stephen Suden
Nan and Michael Suffian
Sandra and Charles Sullivan
Carol and Michael Sutker
Ann and Michael Swartz
Temple Shalom Men's Club
The Fred A. & Barbara M. Erb
Family Foundation
The Herbert H. Schiff
Foundation Schiff Family Fund
Susan and Grant Thigpen
Joan and Berton Thompson
Fahn Tishkoff
Phyllis Titlebaum
Joel Treewater
Sheila and Steven Turbiner
Tammy Turner Kipp
Gail and Melvin Ufberg
Lynn and David Valinetz
Diane Van Parys
Joan Vazakas
Jo-Ellen Vernali-Knoerl
Garmina Villa
Barbara and Tom Vinson
Lisa and Norm Vogel
Phyllis and Leonard Voltes
Marion Wahl
Linda and Jerry Wainick
Lorraine and Irving Waldman
Debby and Jeff Waranch
Sherry and Joseph Warsaw
Susan and Mark Wasserman
Patti Wasserman
Marianne Wassmer
Lisa Goldstein and
Peter Weidhorn
Ruth Halperin and David Weil
Sydelle and Andrew Weinberger
Hedy and David Weinberger
Suellen and Jim Weiner
Sheryl and Ken Weiner
Marc Weingarten
Trudy and Stephen Weisberg
Elaine and Burt Weisberg
Donald weisberg
Carol and Marvin Weisberg
Susan and Jay Weiss
Iris and Barry Weissman
Barbara Wenk
Gayle and Robert Werner
Linda and Alexander Wertheim
Sandra Weseley
Goldie and Kenneth Wetcher
Nancy White
Evelyn White
Susan and Alvin Wichard
Joel Wiener
Kathleen and Robert Wilde
Milli and Richard Wilhelm
Debora Williams
Karen and Howard Wilner
Marilyn and Thomas Wilson
Barbara Winthrop
Diane Wions
Roberta and Joel Wise
Carrie Wissner
Regina and Myron Wittlin
Beth and Brian Wolff
Wollman, Gehrke & Solomon, P.A.
Womens Cultural Alliance
Shirley Woolaway
Dotti Keagy and Neil Woolf
Leona and Herbert Wreschner
Deborah and Frank Wyman
Jeffrey Yale
Reesa and Larry Yarkin
Sherrill and Lubars Yasbin
Harriet and Donald Young
Suzann and Steven Yussen
Joanne and Stuart Zager
Judy and Melvyn Zahn
Sherry and George Zailer
Ellen and Greg Zeiger
Debby and Eric Zelnick
Maura and Michael Zemab
Linda and Bruce Zemple
Joan and Doug Zipes
Bonnie and Alan Ziskin
Deborah Zvibleman
Judith and Jeffrey Zwicker
Federation grants $600,000 in allocations
By Jay Weiss, Allocations Committee Chair
Federation’s 2024 allocation process has been completed and — thanks to you — we created 21 grants totaling $600,000 to protect and nurture Jewish lives locally, nationally, in Israel and overseas. The grant recipients were notified in June.
We define “allocations” as the annual campaign dollars that are directed to our agency partners that directly provide Jewish services, programs, education and assistance. These allocation dollars do not include money directed to Naples programming, Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center operations, Federation staff and Israel Emergency Funds. Thanks to your generosity and a spectacular annual campaign, we were able to fund $600,000 in grants — up 9% versus last year — funding 82% of the grant requests that we received. Your Federation gift will touch the lives of and support more than 200,000 Jewish people here and abroad.
Jay Weiss
and uses of the proposed funds, agency financial statements and historical analyses of how last year’s funds were used.
We have healthy debates to ensure we maximize the impact we can make with the allotted budget from the board, which was $600,000 this year. As in prior years, we prioritize our grant allocations based on need and the impact they can make. This year, we felt it important to also factor in rising antisemitism, particularly on college campuses.
• Our youth programs that promote Jewish identity: Camp and religious school scholarships at Temple Shalom, BBYO, Chabad at FGCU, and Hillel International that touch more than 150,000 young people
• Our programs that protect and save at-risk Jews: Baker Senior Center Holocaust Survivor Program, Ethiopian
2024
Local
Baker Senior Center
National Project, Sapir KFar Saba Community Center, and Yad LaKashish Food Program for the Elderly, protecting more than 50,000 needy people
• Our partners that actively fight the critical issue of antisemitism: AntiDefamation League and Jewish Federations of North America, both influencing millions of people
$600,000
I have had the privilege of leading the Allocations Committee, a 12-person team of very diverse community volunteers, for four years. Our task is large and extremely challenging as we have to make very difficult decisions among so many critical and deserving Jewish community needs. Each agency that we consider funding is vetted and analyzed for viability, efficiency and need. We do this by reviewing their submissions which give extensive detail on the specific needs
Every single dollar goes to the betterment of the Jewish community, locally, in the U.S. and abroad. This year, 65% of the funds went to domestic needs here in Naples and in the United States, while 35% went to Israel and helped internationally. Again, these allocations do not include the additional $1 million we raised here expressly for Israel Emergency efforts. Every single grant will make a huge impact in the Jewish community.
To me, some particularly moving examples are:
• The Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center whose mission is to teach the lessons of the Holocaust and to inspire action against bigotry, hatred and violence to more than 15,000 students and 5,000 visitors this year.
Arts and Entertainment
Coed Events
Cooking
Disscussion Groups
Food and Drink
Fun and Games
Learn and Discuss
Signature Events
MCA Next Gen Luncheons
Monthly Events
Movie Discussion Group
Sports and Leisure
Summer Activites
Tikkun Activities (Volunteerism)
Tours, Trips and more!
Each group has many activities and a large number of participants. Of the 850 or so members the Monthly Luncheons can have as many as 150 participants. Everyone is invited, as a member, to register for an event or many events. Come join this premier mens association!
At the Federation, our allocations work is never “done.” We continue an annual cycle that has proven to be straightforward and productive for our partners. We are already planning to send out our grant request packages to potential partners in November 2024 which will be due in February 2025. The Allocations Committee will then review and make allocation determinations in May 2025, with the 2025 grants being awarded by December 2025.
On behalf of the Allocations Committee and Board of Trustees, I thank you for your generosity and entrusting us to make these impactful and inspiring Jewish financial commitments. We hope you are as proud and excited as we are to do so much tangible good in our Jewish community. Indeed, no gift touches more Jewish lives.
The Carlisle Naples: Cultivating longevity through Blue Zone Living
Researchers have turned to the world’s Blue Zones—regions where people live remarkably long and healthy lives—to unlock the secrets of vitality and longevity. These areas offer a blueprint for wellness that nurtures not just longer lives but more vibrant and fulfilling.
Here are a few tips for embracing Blue Zone living:
Move Naturally: In Blue Zones, people engage in daily activities that involve natural movement. From gardening to walking, these individuals seamlessly integrate physical activity into their lives.
At The Carlisle Naples, an active retirement community, residents have numerous opportunities to embrace natural movement, complemented by a variety of structured exercise classes.
Strategically located amenities such as the pool, restaurant, library, and business center within The Carlisle contribute to the seamless integration of natural movement into residents’ daily routines. Live entertainment and music also draw residents to the dance floor, providing a fun, upbeat way to move naturally.
Purposeful Living: Cultivate a sense of purpose in your daily activities. Having a clear purpose can motivate you to stay active.
“It’s important to have a strong sense of ‘why’ in your life,” said The Carlisle’s Zest Director Marcia Aldana. “Our transformative approach to wellness appeals to residents’ mind, body and spirit. Whether a resident is discovering a new hobby or volunteering, our Zest initiatives are designed to improve residents’ quality of life.”
Stress Reduction: Chronic stress can affect your well-being. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness or yoga. In Blue Zones, regular social interactions and close-knit communities contribute to stress reduction.
Senior living communities offer a maintenance-free lifestyle, ensuring residents can eliminate the stress of homeownership. Without day-to-day household responsibilities, residents can spend each day as they wish. The Carlisle, for example, provides weekly housekeeping and flat linen services and delicious dining with daily, chef-prepared specials. Fitness classes linked to reduced stress are also conveniently available onsite.
Plant-Based Nutrition: Embrace a predominantly plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. Blue Zone residents often follow a similar diet, prioritizing colorful, nutrient-dense foods.
At The Carlisle, an executive chef ensures residents have delicious well-balanced and nutritious options. The Carlisle also offers FreshZest®, an initiative encouraging a plant-forward, whole-food diet that has been shown to provide numerous health benefits and may even reverse some chronic ailments. FreshZest® is part of the expansive dining choices.
Social Engagement: Social connections play a vital role in maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. Join local clubs, fitness groups or community events to foster meaningful relationships.
A retirement community such as The Carlisle is the perfect place to expand one’s social connections. Residents who may have been living alone or serving as a caretaker for an ill spouse find the camaraderie of being with others uplifting. It’s not unusual to have new friendships develop over a card game or through a shared former career.
“Scientific studies have demonstrated that a positive environment, strong social connections and engaging activities significantly contribute to both health span and lifespan,” added Aldana.
“At The Carlisle, we embody Blue Zone principles, creating an atmosphere where residents can thrive.”
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers independent and assisted living lifestyles featuring spacious 1- and 2-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping & flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and delicious dining with daily chefprepared specials. The community is ECC licensed, and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) an important distinction that provides residents with the assurance that the highest standards of quality care, services and safeguards are maintained. For more information about the community, please call 239-388-3768 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
Ambassador Michael Oren to speak at community event
By Reneé Bialek, Program Director
Ambassador Michael Oren, one of the most well connected and influential individuals as it relates to Israel's current situation vis-a-vis Gaza, Hezbollah, Hamas and, of course, Iran. is coming to Naples and we invite you to join us at a community event.
Ambassador Oren served as the Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. from 2009-2013. Following that, he served as a member of Knesset (MP) and was deputy minister of diplomacy in the Prime Minister's Office. The founder of Israel Advocacy Group, Ambassador Oren has authored several New York Times bestsellers, including “Six Days of War: June 1967 and the Making of the Modern Middle East,” “Ally: My Journey Across the American-Israeli Divide,” and “Power, Faith and Fantasy: America in the Middle East: 1776 to the Present,” His latest writing can be found on his Substack, Clarity.
This is a unique opportunity to hear from Ambassador Oren, who will talk and then be available to answer questions. Light refreshments will be served.
This free program is sponsored by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, United Hatzalah and Camille and Richard Forman (Naples to Nazareth). Please register at www.jewishnaples. org so we can plan accordingly
YOU’RE INVITED
Ambassador Michael Oren addresses the community regarding Israel’s current situation
Thursday, Sept. 12, 2 p.m. at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center
Ambassador Michael Oren
JEWISH FEDERATION
Gearing up for another season
SReneé Bialek Program Director
ome programs being offered here at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center include the Puzzle Competition, how to deal with antisemitism, how to deal with election anxiety, a Singles Ping Pong and Pizza Party, creative solutions to address hunger and urgent needs in Israel, Pictionary, Uno, art lessons, Movies That Matter, and a music concert with singer Bryan Ruby.
The Israel and Overseas Committee is announcing its Speaker Series in this issue. Check out their ad on page 20A.
Ten for 10!
Planning for the Jewish Book Festival is underway. Get a look at this year’s books and authors in Book Festival Chair
Robin Mintz’s article below.
Last month, we had the NCH Bloodmobile here (see picture). Thank you to all who came out to donate blood.
Save these dates
Please save these dates for these upcoming Community Wide Programs:
• Monday, Oct. 7 – We Remember at 7 p.m.
• Sunday, Nov. 17 – Kristallnacht Commemoration Program at 2:30 p.m.
Come join us! We offer Ping Pong, Scrabble, Chess, Uno, Pictionary, and
By Robin Mintz, Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival Chairperson
Iam excited to share with you that this is the 10th Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival presented by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. Over these past nine years, our Jewish community has hosted 170 authors. Our longevity would never have been possible without the strong support of our festival sponsors, patrons, volunteers and, of course, you — the giving members of our Greater Naples Jewish Community. We are grateful to Federation President/ CEO Jeffrey Feld, who said “yes” when he was approached with the idea to hold a
2024 - 2025 0 0 YEARS
Jewish Book Festival, and it has been soaring ever since! This year, in honor of our 10th anniversary, we have invited 10 outstanding authors representing a variety of genres. Authors include a television director, a former U.S. Ambassador, a chef, Costco experts, award-winning journalists and several New York Times best-selling novelists. As a special tribute to our 10th year, we invited Talia Carner who was the first festival presenter at the first-ever event when it was called the Collier County Jewish Book Festival. This time, Carner will talk about her latest novel.
“TEN FOR 10”
2024-2025 Jewish Book Festival
Adam Nimoy – “The Most Human” Monday, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m.
Stuart E. Eizenstat – “The Art of Diplomacy” Friday, Jan. 10 at 1 p.m.
Lisa Barr – “The Goddess of Warsaw” Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 1 p.m.
Julie Satow – “When Women Ran Fifth Avenue” Wednesday, Jan. 29 at 1 p.m.
Jean Hanff Korelitz – “The Sequel” Thursday, Feb. 13 at 1 p.m.
June Hersh – “Food, Hope & Resilience” Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 10:30 a.m.
Talia Carner – “The Boy with the Star Tattoo” Monday, March 10 at 3:30 p.m.
Daniel Schulman – “The Money Kings” Friday, March 21 at 1 p.m.
Lauren Grodstein – “We Must Not Think of Ourselves” Thursday, March 27 at 10:30 a.m.
David & Susan Schwartz – “The Joy of Costco” Wednesday, April 2 at 1 p.m.
the Super Samba Card Game. Is there a game that you would like to see us offer on a weekly or monthly basis? If so, email and tell me about it.
Please make sure to read our weekly Monday eblast to view new programs and click on the registration links for all the above programs and for all the new programs that are being added.
Dates and times of upcoming events are announced on our website homepage. If you aren’t receiving our weekly Monday eblast, please email me at rbialek@ jewishnaples.org.
Please register for all events at www.jewishnaples.org.
Official registration begins on Sunday, Sept. 1. To sign up as a Book Festival Patron or to order individual event tickets, visit jewishbookfestival.org.
The October issue of Federation Star will include a complete list of this season’s Jewish Book Festival authors, the dates of their events and descriptions of their respective books. In the meantime, please
see our “Ten for 10” books and authors below! A list of our generous Book Festival Patrons will be published in each Federation Star during the season.
The Jewish Book Festival Committee and I are delighted to be presenting this very special 10th Anniversary Jewish Book Festival.
Senior Health and Wellbeing FREE EVENT
Arbor Trace is hosting a free community health and wellness fair, open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 25 at the senior living community, 1000 Arbor Lake Drive, Naples. Dozens of healthcare practitioners and community organizations will showcase their products and services, including Avow Hospice, CapTel, Coastal Family Medicine, David Lawrence Centers, Doctors of Physical Therapy, Go Forest Bathing, Guardian Pharmacy, Safe Harbor Law Firm, Trendy Tours, and Turn Key Senior Transitions & Designs. The event will include free blood pressure screenings, free chair yoga led by Ali Gardella, healthy snacks and drinks, and giveaways. To learn more, visit arbortrace.com. Scan the QR Code to register or call 239-598-2929
We Look forward to seeing you there!
September 25th 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 1000 Arbor Lake Drive Naples, Fl 34110 239-598-2929
www.arbortrace.com
Sign up now for as little as $18 per High Holiday greeting, which It’seasy!Justselectyourad(s),then
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Shanah Tovah
Rosh HaShanah
Shanah Tovah!
Improve your quality of life with these seminars
By Reneé Bialek, Program Director
Please join us for these free seminars with psychologist Dr. Linda Rosen, covering vital information for you and those you love.
Dr. Rosen will give a short presentation before opening the floor for a Q&A discussion. You can register for one or both seminars:
• Do You Suffer Election Anxiety? Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2-3 p.m.
• Is Happiness Overrated - Would You Settle for Peace and Calm? Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2-3 p.m.
“Election anxiety”
Did you know that there is such a thing as “Election Anxiety?” The last few months, in particular, have led to a big buildup of the major decision regarding who will be the best candidate to lead and protect our country while also serving our individual needs and interests. We cannot talk to each other without taking the risk it will lead to an argument — or worse — a fight. In this seminar, we will explore the key issues that cause anxiety, the psychological importance of making a decision, voting and assertiveness. We will also explore how to cope with anger and rage at people holding opposite political positions. Is it possible to engage in a normal exchange of ideas on various topics?
This is a forum to discuss our feelings, lower the temperature and learn coping strategies to get through a heightened election season with the people we live with, work with and play with.
Happiness versus peace and contentment
There is an underlying pressure in our society for everyone to be happy all the time. Social media adds to this myth that everyone should be happy all the time — showing people at their best, having a great time, being popular with everyone, always smiling, etc. So, is there an alternative or addition to “happiness?”
We will explore the elements of good health, contentment and peace. According to the documentary series “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones,” there are typical life patterns and attitudes that are associated with longevity to age 80 and even up to 100 — as well as “old age hot spots” in places such as Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; and Loma Linda, California.
It is more therapeutic to find a way to lead a purposeful and healthy life, enjoy the moment, find good coping strategies for life’s challenges and find tools and skill sets to navigate life’s journey.
This seminar will provide information on tools and skills that will help you focus on peace and contentment:
• Mindfulness
• Deep breathing to stay calm
• How to not take things personally
• How to navigate difficult social situations
• Creating three things that would make you feel content
• Acceptance — life on its own terms
• Getting the most out of an experience
• Giving yourself credit — a pat on the back
• How to really listen — art and skill
• Leading a purposeful life — what is it you would like to do now?
• Finding who you are now — what you have to offer/give to others
• Expanding the arts in your life — musical instrument, art — playing or appreciation
• Making healthy choices in friends, food and fun
• Role of exercise in your life — are you walking? Keep moving!
• Removing excess, addiction and obsessions — moderation in all things
• Mind control — how to redirect your mind to positive thinking
• Staying steady, focused and determined — don’t give in to distractions.
• Anger — a necessary signal — is not always helpful; learn how to manage it.
Would you like some fast easy cash?
From Gold 2 Green will buy your unwanted jewelry at November event
By Reneé Bialek, Program Director
Do you have gold, platinum, silver or diamond jewelry that you no longer want or need? Do you have jewelry that is outdated, ugly, broken, mismatched or the wrong color? You can immediately turn it into useful green cash, which is always the right color!
Just bring in all your unwanted jewelry.
From Gold 2 Green will buy everything in any condition in precious metals and gemstones. Any color or karat of gold, platinum, silver or even diamonds for cash right on the spot.
• Wednesday, Nov. 20, 11 a.m.4:30 p.m.
From Gold 2 Green will buy chains, bracelets, men’s jewelry, pins, necklaces, earrings, ankle bracelets, cuff links, pendants, money clips, platinum rings, class rings, key chains, lockets, brooches, charms, gold and silver coins, silverware, and much more.
Bring your gold and the items you wish to sell to Jewish Federation of Greater Naples during either event listed below:
• 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.
Events for PJ families
By Amber Ferren, PJ Library Coordinator
Ihope you all had a wonderful summer, and that you are having a great start to the school year!
This month, on Sept. 8 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., there will be program called “Empowering Families: Guidance for Parents and Grandparents on Addressing Antisemitism and Anti-Zionism with
their Children.” This will be at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center and via Zoom. Please register for this free program at jewishnaples.org. This program is for adults only.
Please join us for a family Rosh Hashanah celebration on Sunday, Sept. 29, 12:30 p.m. in the BBYO Lounge
at Jewish Federation Greater Naples. There will be crafts, challah, apples, honey, music, stories and your PJ Library friends!
September memories to cherish
By Marina Berkovich
Two dates that bring eternal sadness to Jews everywhere are Sept. 29 and 30. You may not react to them by dates, but if I said “Baby Yar,” you’d know instantly. The mass murder of Jews that took place in that ravine in Kiev. (Calm down! I will always spell the city of my birth the way it should be spelled, despite political correctness and divisiveness. I earned it through the antisemitism I grew up amongst in Ukraine!)
The 1941 Baby Yar massacre went unprotested, even lauded, by Ukrainian nationalists and Soviet authorities and it was, of course, sanctioned by Nazis and executed by their killer squads, recruited mostly from the highly antisemitic Western Ukrainians. To clarify, that means from the western region of Ukraine, where the city of Lvov (Lviv, in Ukrainian) was sometimes capital, and always
a regional metropolis since at least the 13th century. If antisemitism handed out medals for sadism and cruelty, Lvov and Western Ukraine would have a monopoly on that.
Western Ukrainians killed in Baby Yar not only during the first two days — when they murdered 33,771 Jewish women, children and the elderly by bullets — but over the remainder of their occupation of Kiev until its liberation on Oct. 28, 1944. There were only a few Jews who miraculously survived in Kiev and its vicinity due to extraordinary risks and sacrifices of their non-Jewish family members and unusually silent neighbors. When Nazis were in Kiev, neighbors proudly gave Jews up to horde Jewish belongings or get some sort of revenge.
I have the good fortune to know one such rescued Jew. He was a baby of a Jewish father and a Russian mother. She
saved him but also raised him in constant fear of being identified as a Jew.
Rosh Hashanah 1941 started on Sept. 21. Yom Kippur started on Sept. 30. It was not coincidental that by that time, in Kiev, there were no Jews left alive.
Now, on Sept. 29, The Jews of JewishRussian Cultural Alliance (JRCA) will get together at Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center for our annual Rosh Hashanah celebratory community meal. We will hear a short educational presentation, watch a film, eat delicious kosher-style food and celebrate life in a way only survivors know how. We are all survivors, as in first, second and third generation WWII and Holocaust as well as USSR and Marxism-Leninism-socialism.
We will celebrate life, the freedom to be a Jew in any way we want to be Jewish, the freedom to not have your neighbors denounce you as an enemy of the state, as
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, including our monthly PJ parent get togethers!
in the USSR, or as a Jew, as in the Holocaust, the freedom to cook Jewish meals and sing the few Yiddish songs that were passed on to some of us by the always fearful previous generations. Everyone is welcome to come, but be advised that we speak mostly Russian at these gatherings.
JRCA 2024-2025
calendar
All events are held at Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center on Sundays from noon to 3 p.m. Cover charge is usually $10 per person. Register in advance and receive your food assignment.
JRCA Rosh Hashanah, Sept. 29
JRCA Hanukkah, Dec. 22
JRCA Purim, March 16, 2025
JRCA VE Day - Israel Independence Day, May 4, 2025
Please email JRCAGroup@gmail.com to receive future detailed notifications.
It’s never too late to learn self defense
By Reneé Bialek, Program Director
Ladies, you are all welcome to learn selfdefense with instructor Jill Newman, owner of Naples Family Martial Arts. All the classes listed below will be offered at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. Come learn techniques and maneuvers to feel safe. Newman is a seconddegree black belt who has spent the past five years teaching kids and adults of all
ages how to defend themselves.
Trial class
Monday, Nov. 4, 11-11:30 a.m.
Come learn the different ways to defend yourself. This trial class is free and open to 30 ladies. Newman will go over situational awareness,
basic strikes and a basic wrist grab in this class.
Great opportunity for fun and giving with Beading for Betterment
By Carol Hirsch
For several years, the Beading for Betterment project has provided custom made special 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 follow ing dates:
• Thursday, Sept. 5
• Thursday, Sept. 19
• Tuesday, Oct. 15
• Thursday, Nov. 7
• Thursday, Nov. 14
• Thursday, Dec. 12
• Thursday, Dec. 19
• *Friday, Jan. 24
• Thursday, Feb. 6
• Wednesday, Feb. 19
The classes are 45 minutes and cost $20 each. You can register for one or more classes. We need a minimum of five students with 30 being the maximum number of students per class. You will receive individual attention. Women only please – and wear comfortable clothes! Register for the trial class and the other classes at www.jewishnaples.org. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.
• 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 me at chirsch1951@gmail.com. This program is sponsored by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and Temple Shalom.
event with an author TBA
Jewish Book Festival Sponsors
Extra luncheon event ticket for guest
Venues
Hilton Naples: 5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples
Jewish Congregation of Marco Island: 991 Winterberry Drive, Marco Island
Naples Conference Center: 1455 Pine Ridge Road, Naples
Visit the official Festival website at www.jewishbookfestival.org for more information on the authors and their books, event updates and a printable order form. Have questions that have not been answered in this insert? Send an email to fedstar18@gmail.com or call the Federation office at 239.263.4205.
Tickets ARE Transferable
Consider purchasing a Patron Festival Package. Even if you can’t make it to all 12 events, you can gift your tickets to friends, colleagues and family members.
The Jewish Young Professionals community
By Cayla Schreier, JYP Coordinator
We hope everyone had a fun and relaxing summer. As Jewish Young Professionals of Naples who are very involved in our careers, we do not get to have a full summer vacation like we used to. We have, however, held numerous events and Shabbat dinners to cool off from the work week.
I have been very excited to jump into my role as the JYP coordinator these past few months.
During the month of June, we had numerous JYP members host wonderful Shabbat dinners, and I am proud to share that we had JYP members host Shabbat dinners every single Friday during the month of July. Shabbat dinners allow us to connect with each other, socialize, and connect to Judaism while eating delicious food and wind down from our long week.
Cheesecake bake-off
We held our first JYP Naples Shavuot
Cheesecake Bakeoff on Sunday, June 9. Members celebrated Shavuot by baking a variety of flavored cheesecakes. We were grouped into pairs to bake a cheesecake of our choosing. Members had the opportunity to use different fillings and mix-ins, such as fruit preserves, brownie batter, pistachio butter, caramel and much more! Four cheesecakes were submitted to our competition: Swirly Whirly, The Nutty Professor, Classic Romantic and A Little Bit of Everything. Each member voted for a cheesecake they did not bake, which yielded a tie between The Nutty Professor and the Classic Romantic.
Kayaking
Along with our weekly Shabbat dinners, JYP Naples embarked on a kayaking expedition near Big Hickory Island on Sunday, July 21. We spoke about each of our own Jewish journeys while paddling along the bay. We kayaked through the
WHY DO WRITERS WRITE?
With local author Estelle Rauch
beautiful mangroves and saw so much of the beautiful wildlife that thrives in our local Southwest Florida ecosystem. Everyone had a great time hanging out and relaxing before our upcoming work week.
Upcoming Bahamas cruise
I have an amazing opportunity to present to you all! Moishe House, the organization I work with in addition to Jewish Federation Naples, is an organization that provides funding to host Jewish programming for young Jewish adults, friends and the local community. They have funded many programs that Maya and I have organized for JYP Naples. Moishe House has invited us to join 120 other young Jewish adults from all over North America on a cruise to the Bahamas! Please see the details below:
Thursday, Oct. 10, 1 p.m. at The Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center
Join us for this free program during which local writer Estelle Rauch will talk about her latest book, “Masters of Betrayal” and discuss the process of writing a novel. Using three famous American writers (two men and one woman), she will share information from their backgrounds and how they integrated some of their issues into novels. Comments from the audience will be welcomed.
Register now to hear this interesting presentation: https://JFGN.regfox.com/estelle-rauch
Books will be for sale at $15 and Estelle will autograph them.
You can also purchase the book at amazon.com/Masters-Betrayal-Estelle-H-Rauch/dp/B0CSXP8ZD6
The Nai Cruise is a 4-day (Dec. 6-9) experience on Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas. It leaves from Miami and travels to CocoCay, Nassau and the Bahamas. Not only will you experience everything the boat has to offer, but you will also have a unique opportunity to connect with over 100 Moishe House community members and leaders, creating lasting bonds and memories. Note, this cruise is strictly for young Jewish adults between the ages of 22-40. Singles and couples are both welcome.
Pricing varies, but you can book a room for as low as $470 per person (that is all-inclusive minus alcohol)!
Event details
Details about upcoming events will be distributed via email and the Facebook group chat.
Please reach out to Reneé Bialek (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. As young professionals, we love to network and get to know others who have excelled in our chosen professions. We are looking to set up a mentorship program and event within the upcoming months to help our members navigate their chosen fields, learn from current and former professionals, expand their network, and gain a new perspective on their chosen careers. We have numerous members with different occupations, so the more expertise we can gain, the better. If you or someone you know would be interested in participating in a mentorship program with our local Naples JYP group, please reach out to Bialek.
I look forward to seeing everyone soon!
How MCA started
By Brian Katz
On Nov. 15, 2012, a group of men met at the Federation office. They discussed the formation of a men’s group and among many agenda items chose to finally give it the name MCA. The Men’s Cultural Alliance (MCA) is an affinity group of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, whose purpose is to create friendship and camaraderie among its members by attending and participating in social, intellectual, recreational and athletic activities. From the original group of nine
men (Michael Sobol, Steve Brazina, Les Nizin, Steve Weiss, Dick Janger, Mitch Dannenberg, Dan Kamin, Meir Kehila and Dick Lechtner) we have grown to almost 870 members with a year-round calendar of activities.
In this 13th season, members will participate in a wide variety of activities. Weekly breakfasts, signature luncheons, sports, discussion groups, tours, guest speakers, trips and much more. A new sub-group of the MCA was created last year, officially as MCA Next Gen for men 65 years old and younger.
Members of MCA, who are in good standing, are eligible to join any program. It is necessary, however, to sign up for each program. Many groups are limited in the number of participants, allowing each member the best possible experience. In some cases, there may be a small fee paid to the event (museum) or for food. Some programs and discussion groups can be attended by Zoom.
We encourage all members to wear their ID badges to all events and review the weekly eblast and updated website.
Some examples of the key MCA events planned for the 2024–2025 season include:
• Lunch with Collier County Sheriff Kevin Ramsbosk
• Special Speaker on Artificial Intelligence
• Lunch with Former Astronaut Jay Abt
• Special Speaker – Former White House Direction of Commnications Anthony Scaramucci
• Trips to the Kennedy Space Center and Cuba
We actively seek and welcome new members! We also encourage all member input when organizing new activities and when participating in our exciting programs.
To renew your membership or to become a member of MCA go to https://mcanaples.wildapricot.org/ membership_Form. For all other questions email Help@MCANaples.org.NCH
An amazing organization servicing Naples and the surrounding area. Full of activities and exciting events. Our 850 + members are friendly and happy to make friends.
Last season's Cuba trip
Hospital Simulation Center
CCSO Sheriff's Office
WCA summer programming a huge success
By Susan Pittelman, WCA Publicity Coordinator
Whether you remained in Florida or returned “up north” for the summer, we hope that you had an enjoyable time and were able to connect with some of your WCA friends.
With nearly 40% of WCA members staying in Southwest Florida during the summer, WCA planned a series of special events and activities for our “Year Rounders.” (These new activities were in addition to the many WCA activities that already meet year-round.) WCA Membership Director Harriett Kleinman, along with a committee of 20 members, scheduled 13 special activities for the summer. Kleinman commented, “Planning these summer programs was especially rewarding, because women who had not worked on WCA events in the past volunteered to chair them.”
Our new “Summer Camp for Year Rounders" kicked off with a brunch on May 22 attended by 140 members. Four more Year Rounders programs were held in June: a lovely luncheon chaired by Toby Kosloff was held at the beautiful Pelican Isle Yacht Club; the “Mushroom Brothers” spoke with WCA members at a program planned by Marlene Apkon; Emily Berkowitz showed the film “The Way We Were,” followed by a lively discussion; and Naples Daily News Food and Restaurant Reviewer Diana Biederman shared “insider information” with WCA members at an event planned by Sharon Stein. (Biederman’s recommendations appeared in the WCA newsletter for all WCA members to read.)
In July, two more Year Rounders events were held: a “Shuffle Around” Card Party, organized by Barb Lefkowitz, and a showing of the classic film “Cinema Paradiso,” with a discussion led by Cipora Levine.
August began with a luncheon attended by 60 women at La Playa Beach and Golf Club, chaired by longtime LaPlaya member Judy Sommerfeld. LaPlaya Membership Director Sandy Cotter shared the resort’s history, beginning her remarks by saying, “I am thrilled to be with such a wonderful group of women – you empower each other.”
Additional events for Year Rounders taking place after this issue’s press deadline include: a Mystery Trolley Tour planned by Lesa Pammer and Gayle Dorio; iPhone and iPad Tutorials 1 & 2, led by Marty Dorio; Country Line Dancing organized by Debbie Laites; and a Lunch/Fashion Show at Molinos Restaurant arranged by Janet Cooperman and Nancy Kahn.
Just in case you are starting to wish that you could remain in Florida during the summer—remember that the liaisons for our 10 WCA Summer Branches offer programs for members who return up north for the summer.
Some of the branch programs held during the summer included:
• A tour of the exhibit “Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900-1939” at the National Portrait Gallery and a tour of the Baltimore Museum of Art, each followed by lunch, planned by liaison Deedee Remenick for the Washington DC/Virginia/Maryland Branch.
• Attending the Barrington Stage Company’s production of “La Cage Aux Folles,” with lunch before in Lenox, arranged by Anne Schnesel and Ann Cowen along with Lenore Greenstein for the Berkshires Branch.
• “Lovely Lunch and Lively Conversation” at Dorothy Schwebel’s home in Youngstown, Ohio by the NE Ohio Area of the Ohio Branch.
• A visit to author and artist Julie Dawson’s home and gardens, organized by Liaison Dorothy Collins for the Michigan Branch
• Lunch at Bobby Byrnes Restaurant followed by boutique shopping at Mashpee Commons planned by branch liaison Ellen Garnick for the new Boston
Highlights of WCA’s Year Rounders Events
Diana Biederman spoke to a standing-room-only crowd.
A lovely luncheon was held at the Pelican Isle Yacht Club, chaired by Toby Kosloff (back row, 2nd from left).
Women had an opportunity to taste several of the gourmet mushrooms grown at Stropharia Mushroom Farm. (Event Chair Marlene Apkon is on the far right.)
The winning teams of the “Shuffle Around” card party (Event Chair Barb Lefkowitz is second from the left.)
WCA Members after watching the film “Cinema Paradiso” (Movie Chairs Emily Berkowitz and Cipora Levine are in the front row, far right.)
Judy Sommerfeld and Harriett Kleinman organized a beautiful August luncheon at LaPlaya Beach and Golf Club.
South Shore/Rhode Island/Cape Cod Branch
• A tour of the Baha’i Temple in Wilmette, followed by lunch at Frank and Betsie's restaurant planned by Suzanne Tolpin, Minda Bernberg and Arlene Levin for the Illinois Branch.
• A pot-luck lunch and pool party at the home of Linda Hyde held by the Boston Metro Branch
And as I write this article, additional branch gatherings are being organized! During the summer, the WCA Board, with the assistance of many dedicated volunteers, planned a wide array of programming for the upcoming season. Speaker series, trips, interest group activities and special events have been scheduled, with more being added as new, exciting programs are suggested. The
WCA website contains a calendar of activities for the 2024-2025 season and a list of special events as well as information about interest groups. And, of course, WCA’s weekly newsletter includes announcements of upcoming programs that require registration.
If you haven’t yet renewed your WCA membership, please be sure to “due” it by Sunday, Sept. 1 so that you
Snapshots from WCA Summer Branches
don’t miss out on a single day of the 2024-2025 season. Members who have not renewed by Sept. 1 will not receive WCA communications nor will they be able to register for WCA programs. To renew your membership (or to join WCA) go to our website, wcanaples.org, and click on “Membership.”
We look forward to a great new season and to having you be part of it!
Members of the Illinois Branch stand in front of the Baha’i Temple in Wilmette, Illinois.
Washington DC/Virginia/Maryland Branch eating lunch at Gertrude’s, the restaurant in the Baltimore Museum of Art.
The Michigan Branch toured Julie Dawson’s home and gardens.
The Boston Metro Branch enjoyed being together at Linda Hyde’s home.
Members of the NE Ohio area at Dorothy Schwebel’s home
Jewish Congregation of Marco Island
May 5785 Bring Peace, Happiness and Good Health to You and Your Family Come Worship With Us
Join our High Holy Day Services Led by Rabbi Mark Gross and Cantorial Soloist Hari Jacobsen
S’LICHOT
Saturday 9/28/24, 8:30PM
EVE of ROSH HASHANAH
Wednesday 10/02/24, 7:30PM
ROSH HASHANAH, 5785
Thursday 10/03/24, 10:00AM TASHLICH
Friday 10/04/24, 11:00AM
YOM KIPPUR EVE - KOL NIDREI
Friday 10/11/24, 5:00PM Pre-Kol Nidrei Dinner
7:30PM Kol Nidrei Service
YOM KIPPUR – Day of Atonement
Saturday 10/12/24, 10:00AM Worship, includes “Yizkor” Memorial.
3:30PM Afternoon Worship and Ne’ilah
6:30PM Break-the-Fast Dinner
We invite visitors and guests to join us in live worship. The cost for guests is $200/person. Call ahead to reserve your seat: (239) 642-0800.
All are welcome to follow services through live -stream from our Congregational website: https://marcojcmi.com/online -services
WishingYouaSweet &HappyNewYear
“As we dip our apples in honey, we pray for an additional measure of sweetness. May we continue to grow in our commitment to our faith, our people and community. May all Jews experience blessings in the year ahead, and may the world become a better place for all your children.”
– Rabbis Bennet Miller & Erik Lankin
Please come visit our Garden of Remembrance
Connecting seniors
CDr. Jaclynn Faffer President/ CEO
an it really be September? We have been extremely busy at Baker Senior Center Naples (BSCN); perhaps that is why the time flew by.
We added several new initiatives to our Brookdale Cognitive Health programs. Our monthly Memory Café is open to community members who have mid to moderate dementia and their families. It is a 90-minute socialization event held monthly at BSCN that includes interesting activities with the goal of getting to know each other. Three times a year, the Memory Café sponsors trips to places of interest, such as the Naples Botanical Garden and The Baker Museum. For information, please contact Brookdale Cognitive Health Services at 239-3254444 and ask for Riley McLean.
In addition, the Melodious Echoes Choir was formed for individuals with dementia and their caregivers to join together and sing. The group is led by one
of our music therapists, Paula Matta. You can also contact Matta at BSCN (239325-4444) to find out more about how you can participate.
Our Geriatric Case Management program is expanding with additional staff coming on board to provide more services to seniors who require assistance with day-to-day needs or have special needs, such as homelessness.
September is National Senior Center Month, and this year’s theme is “Powering Connections.” Our senior center is planning many activities to facilitate connection to our many art, music, wellness and socialization programs. If you have not yet visited us at our Autumn Oaks Lane location, this would be a wonderful time to do so.
Plans are well underway for our signature fundraising event, An Evening for Better Tomorrows. This year’s theme is “Walking on Sunshine.” Please mark your calendars for Jan. 11 at the Royal Poinciana Golf Club. Cocktail hour begins at 5:30 p.m. with dinner and dancing to follow. Additional information, as well as event tickets, are available at Bakerseniorcenternaples.org.
I will close by wishing everyone L’Shana Tova . Let this year be one of health, happiness, and most of all, peace.
Tributes
To: Jerry Bogo
Mazel Tov on celebrating 90 incredible years of life. Here's to the remarkable person you are and the legacy you've created. To many more joyous moments ahead!
From: Cheryl & Luc Ginsburg
To: Marc Saperstein In Memory of Annie Wolf
From: Milton Coleman
To: Steve Wolf
In Memory of Annie Wolf
Larry and I send our condolences. Thinking of you and your family
From: Leslie Kramer
To: Marc Saperstein In Memory of Annie Wolf
So sorry about the loss of Joan’s mom.
From: Robin & Andy Mintz
To: Jessica Rush In Memory of Annie Wolf
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We love you and are thinking about you!
From: Kevin Small
To: Marc Saperstein In Memory of Annie Wolf
From: Jane Schiff
Tributes require a minimum donation of $18.
To place a tribute in FederationStarin honor or memory of someone, please contact Linda Sherman at the Federation office at 239-263-4205 or lshermanjewishnaples.org. Tributes require a minimum donation of $18. A note will be sent to the person/family you are honoring. Tributes help further the work of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.
IN COLLABORATION WITH THE FOUNDATION
MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2024
Hadassah announces the Women’s Health Symposium 2024
10:30AM sharp to 1:30PM
Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center
Schiff Hall, 4720 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL
By Diane Schwartz, Co-President, Hadassah Presidents Council
All are invited to the educational program, “Gynecological Cancers: Diagnosis to Wellness.” Hadassah is pleased to say that the Foundation for Women’s Cancer is supporting this program, and we are proud to work with them on this very meaningful topic.
The Women’s Health Symposium will be held on Oct. 28, 10:30 a.m. at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, Schiff Hall (4720 Pine Ridge Road, Naples). For those not able to attend in person, we are offering the option of participating via an online webinar. The registration fee is $36 for both inperson and online participants. Both events occur on the same day and time.
We extend many thanks to this program’s generous presenting sponsor, Shelley C. Einhorn.
A webinar will be available on the same date/time for those unable to attend in person.
Tamar Perri, MD (Video message) Director of the Gynecological Oncology Department at Hadassah Medical Center
Dr Perri is a published researcher and Professor of Medicine
Guest speakers include Tamar Perri, MD via a video message. Dr. Perri is the Director of the Gynecological Oncology Department at Hadassah Medical Center. She is a noted researcher and published author of many studies as well as a professor.
A box lunch for in-person attendees has been donated by our presenting sponsor.
Program/ webinar Registration $36.00
Check-in starts at 10:00am
WOMEN’S HEALTH SYMPOSIUM
GYNECOLOGICAL CANCERS: DIAGNOSIS
and published researcher of articles and abstracts.
IN COLLABORATION WITH THE FOUNDATION PRESENTING SPONSOR: SHELLEY
MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2024
10:30AM sharp to 1:30PM
Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center
Schiff Hall, 4720 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL
Candice Schwartz, MD
MD
Double board-certified Hematologist and Medical
James W. Orr, Jr. MD, FACS, FACOG will lead off the program. He is the chief medical officer of Surgical Oncology at Florida Gynecologic Oncology, part of the GenesisCare network, in Fort Myers (retired). He is the past president of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology, the Florida Society of Gynecologic Oncology, and the Florida Obstetrical and Gynecologic Society. He is double board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology. Dr. Orr will discuss the types of gynecological cancers, their diagnosis and surgical treatment, as well as the research being conducted.
The program closes with a unique ending, “Survivorship to Thrivership,” a conversation with gynecological cancer survivors, moderated by Dr. Orr.
A webinar will be available on the same date/time for those unable to attend in person.
James W. Orr, Jr., MD, FACS, FACOG
The timeline is as follows: in-person check-in begins at 10 a.m. and the program and webinar begin at 10:30 a.m. (sharp!) and will end at 1:30 p.m. A box lunch will be provided to inperson attendees, courtesy of our presenting sponsor.
A box lunch in-person attendees has been donated by our presenting sponsor.
Cleveland Clinic Florida Maroone Cancer Center
Dr Schwartz specializes in gynecological and breast
James W. Orr, Jr. MD
We will also be joined by Candice Schwartz, MD, a double board-certified Hematologist and Medical Oncologist at the Cleveland Clinic Florida Maroone Cancer Center. Dr. Schwartz specializes in gynecological and breast malignancies and will discuss therapy applied after initial treatment for cancer, especially to suppress secondary tumor formation.
Tamar Perri, MD Tamar Perri, MD (Video message) Director of the Gynecological Oncology
Discussing genetics is Sara Rhode, MS, CGC, certified by the Board of Genetic Counseling. Rhode is a teacher
To register for in-person or webinar attendance, contact: collierleehadassah@ gmail.com and type “Symposium” into the subject line. Make your request, and you will be sent a link to register.
Double Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology; Chief Medical Officer, Surgical Oncology, Florida Society of Gynecologic Oncologists, GenesisCare USA, Fort Myers (Retired), Past President, Society of Gynecologic Oncology, Florida Society of Gynecologic Oncologists, and Florida Obstetric &
Sara Rhode, MS CGC Certified – Board of Genetic Counseling
Ms. Rhode is a teacher and published researcher of articles and abstracts
Double board-certified Hematologist and Medical Oncologist at the
Also featuring a moderated Survivorship A Conversation Gynecological Survivors
James W. Orr, Jr., MD, FACS, FACOG Double Board Certified Obstetrics & Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology; Chief Medical Officer, Surgical Oncology, Florida Society of Gynecologic Oncologists, GenesisCare USA, Fort Myers (Retired), Past President, Society Gynecologic Oncology, Florida Society of Gynecologic Oncologists, and Florida Obstetric Gynecologic Society
Sara Rhode Candice Schwartz,
At the Museum
ISusan Suarez President & CEO
hope everyone had a nice summer! We are looking forward to welcoming you back to the Museum this fall. Read below for an update on the state’s arts and culture funding, along with information on a new exhibit and upcoming programs.
State arts and culture grants eliminated
In June, the entire $32 million funding allocation for state arts and culture grants in 2024-2025 was vetoed by Gov. Ron DeSantis. This was a rare action — even during economic downturns, state budget funds were allocated for arts and culture grants. This veto’s impact is far-reaching
and deeply felt by small nonprofits across the state, including our Museum.
For the past five years, the Museum has been awarded grants in recognition of the important work we do with Southwest Florida students and the public. The Museum had been approved for an arts and culture grant of nearly $47,000 in support of our educational and cultural programs for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The termination of our funding came just weeks before our new fiscal year began. We and the other arts and culture groups who had been awarded the grants are scrambling to close these unexpected funding gaps.
reduce, our important programming. We have been blessed for many years with loyal supporters. I hope you will consider making an additional donation to support our 2024-2025 education efforts. Every amount helps. Please visit www.hmcec. org/support to make a donation.
In addition to the grants we’ve already applied for, we’ve been researching and applying for grants from new sources. We must continue to share the lessons of the Holocaust with as many people as possible given the difficult times we are living through. We want to expand, not
FALL 2024
"MOVIES THAT MATTER"
Steve Brazina Memorial Film Series
Join us for these important Zoom Panel discussions on Human Rights topics affecting SWFL, and learn how you can make a difference in our community. Free of charge to participate. Reservations are required, and donations are appreciated. Series Sponsorships are available.
Wake Up: Stories from the Frontlines of Suicide Prevention ZOOM Panel Discussion
Wednesday, September 25, 2024 2:00pm EST (U.S/Canada)
Wake Up interweaves the stories of four very different communities affected by suicide. The film also profiles the efforts of those at the forefront of suicide prevention as they seek to decrease the suicide rate in our country and to promote compassion for all those affected by it.
Note: Film and Zoom links provided prior to the Zoom discussion. A film "watch party" will be held at the Holocaust Museum in Naples the week before the Zoom discussion.
Next Program: Pay or Die ZOOM Panel Discussion
Wednesday, November 6, 2024 2:00pm EST (U.S./Can)
2024 "Movies That Matter" Series Partners: GenShoah SWFL, Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center, Interfaith Alliance of SWFL, Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Naples, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, Naples United Church of Christ, Temple Shalom
For more information, Series Sponsorships and to RSVP, please visit HMCEC.org.
Kudos to the Collier Community Foundation
I want to thank the Collier Community Foundation for its efforts to help blunt the funding veto’s impact on several organizations in our community. The Collier Community Foundation has provided approximately $250,000 in grants to local organizations in the face of these unexpected state funding cuts. Thankfully, the Museum is one of their beneficiaries and received $12,000. For nearly 40 years, the Collier Community Foundation and its generous donors have supported local nonprofits with financial assistance. With its awarding of these grants, it continues its role as a vital and important steward of our community.
Movies That Matter –The Steve Brazina Memorial Film Series
This year’s Movies that Matter Expert Panel Discussions will be held via Zoom. As in past years, a panel of local experts on the film’s subject will discuss and answer your questions on the issue’s impact on our area.
Two programs are scheduled for fall 2024, and one in spring 2025. Film links will be sent out the week before the scheduled expert panel discussions via Zoom so you can watch the films at your convenience. The Zoom link will be sent out the day before the discussion. Below is the fall schedule; details on the spring film title and discussion date will be available later.
Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2-3 p.m.
via Zoom
Expert Panel Discussion of “Wake Up: Stories from the Frontlines of Suicide Prevention.”
"Wake Up" interweaves the stories of four very different communities affected by suicide. The film focuses on the actions of leading advocates for suicide prevention and the importance compassion plays in the fight against prejudice about those affected by suicide and their families.
RSVP required to receive film and Zoom links – www.hmcec.org.
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2-3 p.m. via Zoom
Expert Panel Discussion of “Pay or Die,”
which explores the dilemma faced by millions of insulin-dependent Americans living with Type 1 Diabetes. The prices of the life-saving medications they require have risen dramatically as have the profits of the pharmaceutical companies manufacturing them and other vital drugs. RSVP required at www.hmcec.org to receive film and Zoom links.
Current exhibit at the Museum
“Witness to the Memory of Oradour – The Photography of Martin Graf” premiered at our Museum in July. Martin Graf’s haunting black and white photographs of the ruins of the small French town of Oradour honor the memory of the victims of a devastating Nazi reprisal. In June 1944, SS troops surrounded the town and rounded up its residents because of a rumor that area partisans captured a high-ranking Nazi officer. The Nazis murdered 642 people — men, women and children — before destroying the town and leaving the ruins which remain today. Only six people survived this brutal action. Graf eventually met Robert Hébras, the last remaining survivor of the massacre. Later, they joined forces to teach students about the events at Oradour. “Witness to the Memory of Oradour – The Photography of Martin Graf” will be on display through early December 2024. We hope to schedule a program with Martin Graf at the Museum this fall.
Boxcar at the Museum
The Boxcar Exhibit is currently on display at the Museum before it begins its travels for the 2024-2025 school year. The exhibit is on loan to the Museum from Jack and F.E. Nortman and The Boxcar Foundation. Over the summer, The Boxcar Exhibit’s information panels were updated in preparation for the year’s activities. The exhibit is available for display at schools and community organizations. Please contact Museum Education Specialist David Nelson for more information on scheduling availability. Email David@hmcec.org or call 239-263-9022, ext. 205. Are you a parent (or grandparent) of a student in K-12 school in Southwest Florida? If so, you can help promote Holocaust education by letting the principal and teachers know about the Museum’s free programs for schools! Contact David@hmcec.org, and we can email or mail you the flyer to give to your student’s school.
I hope to see you soon at the Museum!
Planning for the future while knowing the past
By Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb
GenShoah SWFL has concrete plans for the near future and conceptual plans for the more distant future. A complete listing of the programs for 2024-2025 can be found on the following page. Contact GenShoahSWFL@hmcec.com with any questions.
Growing up in a home of Holocaust survivors means always acknowledging the almost-death experience of your parents. We didn’t know many of our grandparents who were murdered. We carry their dreams. Now, as we arch toward the end of our ability to actively engage in Holocaust programs and events, it becomes evident that the second generation needs to use some of our energy to plan for inclusion of future generations.
GenShoah SWFL is doing some planning for that. We are exploring ideas that will engage younger members of the community and enhance their understanding of the Holocaust. We want to include them in the implementation and
"The Holocaust in Salonika, the Jerusalem of the Balkans"
On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 2:30 p.m. Sam Varsano will share the dilemma of the Jewish community in Salonika and how they were selected for deportation during the Holocaust.
The community also reaches out to GenShoah in wonderful ways. Beth Tikvah of Naples is sponsoring an event in honor of GenShoah.
planning of current programs and expand our outreach to many different ages and beliefs.
Reaching out will require the involvement of more members. We are seeking input from our 2Gs and hope they will respond. Our knowledge and experience should not go unshared.
We already have many GenShoah members who share with the community. They are docents at the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center in Naples. They respond when asked to speak at a school or event. They have written their parents' stories for the Museum's website. And we are grateful that they attend GenShoah events.
Here's a taste of the GenShoah SWFL program listing for 2025-2025 that highlights two members reaching out. And there are many others ...
Open House and New Member Reception
This event for all GenShoah members and survivors is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, 10 a.m. with Dina Shein presenting "The Bukharan Jews.”
"Resistance: They Fought Back"
This film and reception to recognize GenShoah SWFL is scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, 7 p.m. at Beth Tikvah of Naples. RSVP to office@bethtikvah.us is required.
Next year will be 80 years since the official end of WWII. Plenty of time to uncover the reality of what happened, including how the Jews responded to this horror, this procedure of Nazi genocide. We are finding out much more about the Jews who fought back.
Fighting back is being uncovered in other contexts as well. There was a recent news story reported on NPR's July 9 “Morning Edition” program about the purchase of a plantation house in Louisiana. It was purchased by Black twin sisters and turned into a museum that will tell the story of one of the largest slave revolts in U.S. history (1811). It is also known as the "German Coast Uprising," because this region along the Mississippi River was settled by German immigrants. Neither the irony — nor the parallel — in this story are lost.
History discovered is truth revealed. Truth revealed and shared is history discovered whether it is personal or global.
Remember you do not have to be a child of Holocaust survivors to join GenShoah. You only need an interest in our mission statement.
If you are interested, please email GenShoahSWFL@hmcec.org. You will always be welcome.
Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb
American Uprising book cover
GenShoah SWFL 2024-2025 programs
By Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb
The following is a list of events
GenShoah SWFL has scheduled for this season. Please mark them in your calendar and plan to join us.
Movies that MatterThe Steve Brazina Memorial Film Series
• Nov. 6 – "Pay or Die" Zoom discussion/Q&A, 2-3 p.m. RSVP required to hmcec.org.
Spring Series – (films and dates TBD; for more information, email katie@ hmcec.org)
Book Discussion – “The People on the Beach: Journeys to Freedom After the Holocaust” by Rosie Whitehouse Nov. 14, 11 a.m. at Beth Tikvah of Naples. RSVP required to ekafer520@ gmail.com.
Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church Naples. RSVP required to jewishnaples.org.
Annual GenShoah Member Brunch Potluck
Sunday, Dec. 22, 11 a.m., location TBD. This event includes a book talk on “A Tale of Love and Darkness” by Amos Oz. RSVP required to liebro@ gmail.com.
"Resistance: They Fought Back"
Film and reception to recognize Gen-Shoah SWFL on Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, 7 p.m. at Beth Tikvah of Naples. RSVP required to office@ bethtikvah.us.
Open House and New Member Reception
All GenShoah members and survivors are invited to attend Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, 10 a.m. at the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center. The event features Dina Shein’s program "The Bukharan Jews.” RSVP required to hmcec.org.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day
• Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, 1-3 p.m. at the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center. Complimentary admission.
• Monday, Jan. 27, 2025 – Evening special film; location TBD. RSVP required to hmcec.org for both events.
"Our Stories" GenShoah member get-together
Sunday, March 2, 2025, 1 p.m.; location
TBD. RSVP required to liebro@gmail.com.
"The Holocaust in Salonika, the Jerusalem of the Balkans" by Sam Varsano Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 2:30 p.m. at the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center. RSVP required to hmcec.org.
Genealogy workshop
Sunday, April 6, 2025, 1 p.m.; location TBD. RSVP required to liebro@gmail.com.
Yom HaShoah Commemoration
Sunday, April 27, 2025, 4 p.m. at Temple Shalom, Naples. RSVP to jewishnaples. org. Pre-event reception for GenShoah and survivors at 3 p.m.
GenShoah SWFL
GenShoahSWFL@HMCEC.org
Temple Shalom events open to the community
By Jeanette Fischer, Temple Shalom Director of Communications
Registration is required for all events at www.naplestemple.org. Tickets are Men’s Club and Sisterhood, this program will offer valuable insight into the upcoming changes planned for Medicare in 2025. Join us Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 1:30 p.m. tinyurl.com/TS-Medicare
Temple Shalom
Join us Friday, Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m. for wine and cheese, tour our building, meet the clergy and find out more about our pledge-based voluntary dues. Experience the warmth of our Temple Shalom “One Family” at Shabbat services immediately following the Open House.
Soulful Shabbat
Experience the transformative power of music and spirituality at our Soulful Shabbat service on Friday, Sept. 20 at
7:30 p.m. This soul-stirring service will be conducted entirely through the enchanting melodies of Cantor Donna Azu and the Temple Shalom Band.
Torah Study
Join our vibrant virtual Torah Study every Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m. via Zoom. Delve into the rich wisdom of the weekly Torah portion with thoughtful discussions and meaningful reflections. Led by a member of our clergy or a lay leader. Please contact the Temple Shalom office at 239-455-3030 for the Zoom link.
Beth Tikvah 2024-2025 programing
By Lee Henson, Program Director
This coming season will be filled with spiritual, educational and inspiring activities. We will begin with our traditional High Holy Day services with the addition of Cantor Brody adding special songs to our celebrations. Then, join us as we “Break the Fast” with a delicious dairy feast, catered by Jay Wolfson of Prestige Catering. As the year progresses, we will host our Speakers’ Series, which will begin with Jeff Margolis talking about the special little books printed for our servicemen during World War II. We will continue with a special Veterans’ Day service and recognize our family members who have served our country. If you would
like to add your photo — or a family member’s photo — to our free-standing poster, please send it to the rabbi or to me at lhenson13@gmail.com. We would love to have it!
We are pleased to announce that we will be supporting and honoring GenShoah with two special events this season. On Nov. 14, at 11 a.m., we will listen to a book talk by Estelle Kafer in our sanctuary.
Later in the season, on Jan. 26 at 7 p.m., we will view the new film, “Resistance: They Fought Back.” This film is sponsored by Ida and Jeff Margolis and Lee and Joe Henson in honor of Gen Shoah.
Please add these two special events to your calendar now!
Another special addition this season are free Hebrew classes via Zoom presented by Michael Kinrys. All you have to do is register at beby.org/event/hebrewreading.
Naples Jewish Congregation events
By Chuck Naumoff, Publicity Chair
The following NJC events are open to the community:
Shabbat Services
Everyone is welcome to attend our Shabbat Services, which will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday night, Sept. 6, 13, 20 and 27. Join Rabbi Herman, Cantorial Soloist Jane Galler and Music Director Alla Gorelick for song and inspiration in our home at the Unitarian
Universalist Congregation of Greater Naples located at 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples. Worship together with the members of the “The Small Congregation with a Big Heart.” Services continue Friday nights and Saturday mornings through May. See our website at naplesjewishcongre gation.org for specific dates and times. While there, you can see the various planned activities.
High Holiday Services
Courses begin on Oct. 29 for beginners and Feb. 11 for level 2.
While you are at Beth Tikvah, stop by our little library and borrow a book. Although it is small, there are some very interesting books available for your perusal.
Don’t forget that you can sign up for High Holy Day tickets, Break the Fast, and see our entire schedule if you go online to bethtikvahnaples.org.
We look forward to seeing you!
Beth Tikvah
bethtikvahnaples.org
239-434-1818
Our warm and spiritual High Holiday Services will be open to the community. Rosh Hashanah at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2 and 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 3. Yom Kippur on Friday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 12 at 10 a.m. Yizkor and Neila at 3:30 p.m. followed by our Break-Fast dinner. Complimentary tickets are available to anyone who has not joined us before. Previous attendees may purchase tickets for $100 per person.
WOMEN’S HEALTH SYMPOSIUM 2024 GYNECOLOGICAL CANCERS: DIAGNOSIS TO WELLNESS
IN COLLABORATION WITH THE FOUNDATION FOR WOMEN’S CANCER PRESENTING SPONSOR: SHELLEY C. EINHORN
MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2024
10:30AM sharp to 1:30PM
Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center Schiff Hall, 4720 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL
Tamar Perri, MD (Video message) Director of the Gynecological Oncology Department at Hadassah Medical Center
Dr Perri is a published researcher and Professor of Medicine
A webinar will be available on the same date/time for those unable to attend in person.
Candice Schwartz, MD Double board-certified Hematologist and Medical Oncologist at the Cleveland Clinic Florida Maroone Cancer Center
Dr Schwartz specializes in gynecological and breast malignancies
A box lunch for in-person attendees has been donated by our presenting sponsor.
James W. Orr, Jr., MD, FACS, FACOG Double Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology; Chief Medical Officer, Surgical Oncology, Florida Society of Gynecologic Oncologists, GenesisCare USA, Fort Myers (Retired), Past President, Society of Gynecologic Oncology, Florida Society of Gynecologic Oncologists, and Florida Obstetric & Gynecologic Society
Program/ webinar
Registration $36.00
Check-in starts at 10:00am
Sara Rhode, MS CGC Certified – Board of Genetic Counseling Ms. Rhode is a teacher and published researcher of articles and abstracts
To receive a Registration link or Ask a Question please email collierleehadassah @gmail com.
To register, type SYMPOSIUM LINK in the subject line, and a link will be sent to you.
Hadassah’s mission is to connect and empower women to effect change, putting our Jewish values into action.
Learn more at Hadassah.org
Also featuring a moderated conversation: Survivorship To Thrivership A Conversation with Gynecological Cancer Survivors
Y our hom e fo r complete br east car e
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
Now is the time to prevent antisemitism in our public schools
By Allen Menkin, MD, Project Manager, CAMERA’s Naples Partnership of Christians and Jews
Barely four months ago we were shaking our heads in disbelief as Columbia University’s “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” — and remarkably similar “spontaneous” disturbances at top universities and colleges across the country — rapidly degenerated into to full blown insurrections and orgies of Jew-hatred.
The good news: Contrary to headlines, the disturbances were limited to a handful of elite universities, primarily in California and the Northeast. A Washington Monthly study found that of 1,421 public and private nonprofit colleges, 318 (22%) had protests and 123 (9%) had encampments. Despite frayed Black-Jewish relations, none of the 78 historically Black colleges had encampments, and only nine had demonstrations. The performative hysterics of underinformed, overindulged, keffiyeh draped, useful idiots accomplished almost nothing. If their goal was to promote peace in Gaza or support suffering Palestinians, they failed miserably.
The bad news: Confrontational Jewbaiting in higher education had spiraled out of control long before the October atrocities and would continue even if Israel disappeared from the map. Funded by Iran and extreme-left American foundations, the “students” managed to make campuses and neighborhoods from Morningside Heights to Berkeley look and feel like 1938
Berlin. Very few of them have been prosecuted, many have returned for the fall semester, and it is not at all clear if diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) obsessed administrations have either the integrity or the ability to rein them in. But that may be the least of our problems.
Our profoundly illiberal, antisemitic, anti-American elite universities are a product of “the long march through the institutions,” a radical project that began in the late 1960s to change their mission from the pursuit of reason and knowledge to creating radical change with white, male, capitalist domination and recasting America in the image of an increasingly post-National, neo-Marxist Europe.
Those same universities have distinguished schools of education. They train our children’s K-12 teachers, develop their curriculum and write their textbooks. Their “woke” pedagogy has strong support within the American Federation of Teachers and extends into public school systems across the country. California’s Liberated Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum (LESMC) may be its most toxic version.
For those not familiar with LESMC, its course materials and strategies are studies in anti-Zionist, intersectional, “woke”
dogma. They divide students into victims and oppressors, extol antiwhite violence, depict Israel as an apartheid state, claim that Zionism calls for the creation and expansion of an exclusively Jewish state in historic Palestine “by any means necessary,” and instructs teachers to make clear connections between the “struggle for Palestinian rights and the struggles of Indigenous, Black, and brown communities.”
Florida’s 2022 Individual Freedom Act, (commonly known as the Stop Wrongs to Our Kids and Employees Act and abbreviated as the Stop WOKE Act), expanded antidiscrimination laws to prohibit schools
and companies from directing guilt or blame toward students and employees based on race or sex. It banned lessons on topics like “white privilege” and created new protections for students and workers, including a stipulation that no person should be instructed to “feel guilt, anguish, or any other form of psychological distress due to their race, color, sex or national origin.”
This June a three-judge panel of the Eleventh Circuit Court upheld a previous injunction declaring the act unconstitutional, citing the same First Amendment rights that protect expressions of Jew-hatred on campus. Its ruling does not mean that Florida’s public-school systems will go the way of some in NYC, California, Massachusetts, Maryland and Virginia. It does mean there is a potential for our local schools to come under the influence of an educational dogma that incites antisemitism and threatens the Jewish and American identities of our children. The time to act is before that occurs.
CAMERA’s Naples Partnership of Christians and Jews was founded to prevent the rise of antisemitism in Greater Naples, including our schools. If you would like to help, please contact Tricia Miller at tricia@camera.org.
• FS preflight complete, all errors fixed
ELLIOTT KATZ LECTURE
FALL SERIES
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.
It’s hot! What are you going to do? Complain!
Zoog mir in Yiddish
By Sol Awend, GenShoah SWFL
If you live in sunny south Florida, you can look forward to an outdoor steam bath almost every day, it seems. If you’re a fellow c’hevreh, well there’s always something about which to comment. And when it comes to the weather, it only gets more descriptive in Yiddish.
This time of year is known as zimeh, summer.
Siz heis! (It’s hot!)
Sol Awend
Es brent ah heldish fahyeh! (Seems that a hell fire is burning!)
Siz dooshneh! (It’s suffocating!)
Siz dempik o’chet! (It’s humid too!)
I would pay money to see one of our own presenting the weather and giving a forecast. Until then, let’s do what we can here to talk about more than the weather.
Lomir gein shvimen! (Let’s go swimming!)
Tee oop dee boot hoyzen! (Put on your bathing suits.)
Lomir oobrooten voorsh tah lec’h! (Let’s grill some hot dogs!)
Fah bren zei nisht! (Don’t burn them!)
Saysht t’zin inteh dee koylen! (First light the briquettes!) There is so much about which to comment — food, and what’s good or bad about it, or the weather and how it affects us. And our wonderful Yiddish language has words for everything that’s brewing.
If it’s hot you must be shvitzing (sweating). If so, then you must be dahrshtik (thirsty). If you’re trying to get a tan, don’t forget the zin shmeer ec’hst, otherwise known as suntan lotion. And where are you going to get that tan? Bahm beech! (To the beach!)
It goes on and on, so it’s no wonder that you’re meed (tired) at the end of the day. Whatever you’re doing, I hope you’ve been having fun and enjoying the season, considering we’re almost into fall.
I know one place I’m glad I’m not: Phoenix, Arizona!
You want to know the definition of heiss?! (hot?!)
Oy! Lawts mec’h layben! (Oh! Just let me be!)
Are packages too hard to open? Is it me? Aging Jewishly — What our traditions teach us about growing old.
By Rabbi Barbara Aiello
Stan! That’s quite a handle you got there!”
Macey shouted in surprise as he noticed the giant bandage on his friend, Stan’s hand. And indeed, the mass of tape and gauze was enormous; the bandage on his friend’s hand looked to be the size of a door handle on a minivan. “Man, what happened to you?”
Stan’s face reddened. “I know this is gonna sound cuckoo, but I did this to myself.” It seems Stan had purchased a new calculator, one with big numbers and easier to see. The calculator came packaged in a hard plastic container. Stan tried everything to open the “darn thing,” but nothing worked. In frustration, Stan grabbed a screwdriver and began to pound the plastic packaging. In his fury, he mistakenly pounded his own hand, resulting in a trip to the emergency room and nine stitches.
“Is it me or are these packages just too hard to open?” Stan’s lament is a common one. In fact, there is even a formal name for what Stan — and millions of others — are experiencing each time they try to pry open a new purchase. According to Wikipedia, “It’s called “wrap rage” or “package rage,” the common names
for heightened levels of anger and frustration resulting from the inability to open packaging.”
The citation goes on to say that “people can be injured while opening difficult packaging; cutting tools pose a sharp hazard to the person opening the package…” to which Stan, unfortunately, agrees.
Sadly, Stan is not alone. The problem is so pervasive that in 2003
The Telegraph coined the term “wrap rage” and in the subsequent 20 plus years, increasingly more articles have been written about this phenomenon that is particularly challenging — and often dangerous — for senior citizens.
Wikipedia cites a 2006 article in Consumer Reports that featured the magazine’s Oyster Award, given to products with the hardest to open packaging. Intrigued, comedian Stephen Colbert put it to the test on his television program. Like Stan, Colbert tried using a knife to open a plastic-bound calculator — and like Stan, the comedian was unsuccessful.
A recent study documents the myriad ways consumers try to get around the problem. The study lists unsafe tools such
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as razor blades, box cutters, snips and ice picks used in purchasers’ attempts to open packages and 71% of respondents reported that they “had been injured while trying to open food packaging.” The most common injury respondents had from trying to open packaging was "a cut finger, followed by a cut hand,
the blind.” We interpret this prohibition to mean that we should not make life more difficult for those who are already challenged. Like Stan and millions of consumers, especially seniors, who are fighting and losing the battle against potentially dangerous packaging, make your voices heard and push
sprained wrist, bruised hand and strained shoulder muscle."
What can be done? Some companies are listening to customer complaints, especially from senior citizens who are demanding that packaging become easier for them to open. These complaints have resulted in a rise of perforated packing materials and easy to pull “tear strips.” But for Stan, and so many others, it’s not enough.
In parasha Vayikrah we read, “You shall not place a stumbling block before
companies to take complaints seriously. As Bubby and Zayde would say, “Enough already! Genug!”
For 10 years Rabbi Barbara Aiello served the Aviva Campus for Senior Life as resident rabbi. Her most popular columns are now published in her new book, “Aging Jewishly,” available on Amazon books. She is now rabbi of Italy’s first Reconstructionist synagogue. Contact her at Rabbi@ RabbiBarbara.com.
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How much is that tchotchke in the window?
By Arlene Stolnitz
Imust admit that I am a great fan of the “Antique Road Show.” I am always interested in anything that has relevance to Judaism. Writing this column on sacred Judaic objects has given me new insight into the experience of our ancestors in their journey to the “New World.”
I especially think of my own grandparents who came from Russia and Poland at the turn of the 19th century. Perhaps that is why I am a great fan of the “Antique Road Show.”
We don’t hear much about micrography these days, but as an art form micrography was esteemed by other ancient cultures including Chinese, Japanese, as well as Egyptian. It also spread to other Middle Eastern countries as its popularity grew. By the mid-15th century however, with the invention of the printing press, its popularity diminished — even though scribes still continued their unique craft of writing the Torah.
My story is no different than many Jews living during our time. We all have relatives who had similar experiences emigrating from “The Old Country.” But I have often thought of a question for which I have no answer. How were our ancestors able to bring these objects with them under such difficult circumstances?
On her journey, my Russian grandmother “shlepped” several of these “tchotchkes” with her, which included two fragile porcelain bowls as well as a silver samovar!
Other items immigrants brought took up no room at all. These are the things we see and hear of most often. They brought what was considered “precious” in their eyes — candlesticks, Kiddish cups, tallit bags, spice boxes, challah covers, photographs — but I had never heard of a micrographic portrait, a copy of an image composed of microscopic letters!
By definition, micrography is the formation of pictures or objects with words, written in minute letters. The Chinese used their language; the Jews used Hebrew. It is thought that as early as the late ninth century, Jewish scribes may have written Hebrew micrographic texts in Palestine and Egypt.
The art of beautiful penmanship, microcalligraphy, as it is also called, raises many questions regarding the kinds of tools scribes/calligraphers used in their process. What kinds of pens did they use? Did they use magnifying lenses? Was their eyesight affected?
In micrography, it was possible to draw a picture of an event without creating a “graven image.” Retaining sacredness has always been an important precept in Judaism. This art form allowed “pictures” to illustrate biblical stories. Scribes were already using microscopic letters for
mezuzot and tefillin. They were adept at embellishing the margins of the Torah in tiny letters often using abstract geometric designs representing flowers, animals and even human figures.
Worthy of mention is a micrography of “The Book of Jonah,” depicting a scene from the biblical story of Jonah. Expert in the field is Leila Avrin of Hebrew University in Jerusalem. Her book, “Micrography as Art,” is a wonderful resource for anyone wanting to learn more about the subject.
In Europe and then in America, micrography was used in copying daguerreotypes and photographic images using microscopic letters. Micrography became a popular art form in this country, as immigrants became settled in their new country.
The accompanying image shows a likeness of “Mrs. S. Brody,” by David
Davidson, Artist in Penmanship, New York City, May 5618 (1858). Ink on embossed paper, the micrographic portrait is in the Jewish Museum in New York.
These handprinted works of art are truly inspiring. They force us to think of what can be created simply using pen and ink and make us realize how handwriting can be used in a different way.
Meanwhile, I am still hoping that one day I will see an example of micrography on the “Antique Road Show.” It will make my day!
Arlene Stolnitz, the “Jewish Music” contributor to Federation papers for the past eight years, has started a new series focusing on Judaic Folk Art. It will appear in Federation newspapers on an irregular basis. Stolnitz, a native of Rochester, New York, is a retired educator and lives in Venice, Florida.
September 6: 7:22 p.m.
September 13: 7:15 p.m.
September 20: 7:07 p.m.
September 27: 6:59 p.m.
Arlene Stolnitz
A lot of Jewish-related movies, TV series, and the Emmys
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.
This month there are an unusually large number of films and TV shows with a “Jewish connection.” There are also the Emmy awards, scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 15 (ABC, 8 p.m.).
Emmy nominees
This year, there is an unusually small number of Jewish nominees in all Emmy categories (acting, directing and writing). This year, I’m just covering the Jewish acting nominees: Lead actor, comedy: Larry David, 77, "Curb Your Enthusiasm;” Lead actress, comedy: Maya Rudolph, 52, “Loot.” Supporting actor, comedy: Ebon Moss Bachrach, 47, “The “Bear” and Paul Rudd, 55, “Only Murders in the Building;” Supporting actress, comedy: Hannah Einbinder, 29, “Hacks.”
Jewish-related movies
“Bettlejuice Bettlejuice” is a sequel to “Bettlejuice” (1988), a big hit fantasy/ comedy/horror flick. Michael Keaton again plays Beetlejuice. Winona Ryder, 52, who had a biggish role (“Lydia Beetz”)
in the 1988 film, is a star of this sequel (opens in theaters Sept. 6).
“Wolfs” opens Sept. 20. Premise: Two pro “fixers” (George Clooney and Brad Pitt) find themselves hired for the same job dealing with dangerous and chaotic events. These "lone wolves" are forced to work together. Sarasota native Austin Abrams, 27, co-stars as the mysterious character called "Kid." Richard Kind, 57, plays his father.
“Lee” is a biopic about Lee Miller (19071977), a top fashion photographer before WWII who became a top WWII photographer and reporter. Andy Samberg, 46, has a supporting role as David E. Scherman (1915-1997), a Life magazine photographer. He frequently teamed-up on WWII photographic stories with Miller (played by Kate Winslet). She worked for other magazines (opens Sept. 13).
“Megalopolis,” which opens Sept. 27, was written and directed by Francis Ford Coppola (he’s 85!). Adam Driver stars as an idealistic architect who wants to rebuild his decaying city. His foe is the city’s corrupt mayor. Coppola’s sister, Talia Shire, has a supporting role, as does Shire’s son, Jason Schwartzman, 44 (his late father was Jewish). Also in supporting roles are ‘two more’ individuals with Jewish dads: Chloe Fineman, 36 (“SNL”) and James Remar, 70.
“His Three Daughters” will open in a few theaters on Sept. 9 (to qualify for Oscar
BY NEIL SIMON
nominations) and will begin streaming on Netflix on Sept. 20. It was written and directed by Azazel Jacobs, 51. His last three films have received mostly good reviews but didn’t “break-through” as theater hits. Critics say this film is his best.
The “Three” are estranged sisters who come together to help their dying father. They are played by Carrie Coon, Elizabeth Olsen and Narasha Lyonne, 43. The Hollywood Reporter said, “The film is free of mopey melodrama that often makes the dying parent/estranged sibling screen subgenre so dire. It’s wry, vivid, and moving in unexpected ways.”
TV series
“The English Teacher” is a comedy that premieres on FX/Hulu Sept. 2 (10 p.m.). It focuses on Evan, an Austin, Texas teacher who often finds himself at the center of just about everything in his school. Jordan Firstman, 33, has a large role as Malcolm, Evan’s former boyfriend. Firstman, who is gay, “broke-through” as a well-known comedian when he posted very popular, funny skits on Instagram during the pandemic.
“The Perfect Couple” is a mystery/drama series that premieres Sept. 5 on Netflix. Premise: Anna (Eve Hewson) is about to marry into the rich Newbury family, against the wishes of Greer Newbury, the family’s matriarch (Nicole Kidman). Then, a dead body washes up on a
nearby beach and “everyone” is a suspect. Live Schreiber, 56, co-stars as Tag Newbury, Greer’s husband.
“Brilliant Minds” is an NBC series which premieres on Sept. 23 (10 p.m.). It is based on several books by Dr. Oliver Sacks (19332015). This British neurologist deftly wrote about patients with “interesting” symptoms related to a brain injury or disease. A chapter in his first book (1985) became the basis of the hit film “Awakenings” (1989). Robin Williams played a doctor modeled on Sacks. In the NBC series, the lead character, Dr. Oliver Wolf, is based upon Sacks — Wolf was Sacks' middle name — and is played by Zachary Qunito.
“Nobody Wants This” is a 10-episode comedy series which premieres Sept. 26 on Netflix. The show publicity says: “It’s centered on the unlikely relationship between an outspoken, agnostic woman, Joanne (Kristen Bell) and an unconventional rabbi, Noah (Adam Brody, 44).” The supporting cast (all playing Jews) include Jackie Tohn, 44 (as Esther); Paul Ben-Victor, 58 (as Ilan), and Tovah Feldshuh, 75 (as Bina).
Erin Foster, 42, the show’s creator and “top” executive said, “This show is based on the only good decision I ever made: falling for a nice Jewish boy.” She converted to Judaism before her 2019 marriage to Simon Tikhman, a businessman. The couple had a daughter this year.
BY JOHN CARIANI
Moroccan Style Carrot Tzimmes for your Rosh Hashanah table
By Chef Dalia
On Wednesday, Oct. 2, at sundown, Jews around the world will begin celebrating the Rosh Hashanah holiday. But for many Israelis, it’s hard to fathom a celebration of sweet when friends and family are in captivity.
Rosh Hashanah will be overshadowed by deep sorrow and worry for the hostages. A lot of families will mark the holiday with a low-key dinner in a restaurant, without celebration.
Rosh Hashanah this year will be more profound as “sweet, happy, and hopeful for a better new year” has taken on a new meaning. Every year before, I’ve led my family’s Rosh Hashanah celebration. But this year, I am struggling to reconcile a holiday commemorating sweetness and happiness; it’s hard to fathom a celebration of sweetness and happiness when friends and family are not free.
As hard as it is in times of pain, I have always sought to observe holidays during persecution. I couldn’t celebrate sweetness and happiness, but instead I could celebrate the hope of sweetness and happiness and pray for a better new year to come. L’shana tova! This year as we gather for Rosh Hashanah, we hold both grief and resolve deep in our hearts. We know that this year is unlike any other year. This brought back sweet memories of my childhood in Israel ….
There are some factors in the atmosphere surrounding Rosh Hashana in Israel that I’ve never experienced
anywhere else in the world. I have very warm memories of Jaffa, a beautiful port city that sits midway between Tel Aviv and Bat Yam. At Rosh Hashanah, neighbors gave each other baskets of pomegranates from their yards with wishes for “Shanah Tovah,” or “many years and good years.”
The first taste at the start of the holiday –and to break the fast for Yom Kippur 10 days later – was of honey sprinkled with pomegranate seeds, symbolic of wishes for a sweet year of plenty.
When it comes to Rosh Hashanah, families of Sephardic and Mizrahi origin, like mine from Morocco, have a secret to share with the rest of the Jewish world: a unique Rosh Hashanah Seder far beyond apples dipped in honey. On the first night of the holiday, we hold a special ceremony at home during which we recite blessings over a variety of foods that symbolize our wishes for the year ahead.
After a short ceremony, my grandmother Dalia (from my father’s side) served a festive dinner in her apartment. The meal began with a blessing over the sweet Moroccan challah that is made circular to symbolize a full, “round” year. Apple preserves called “tfah” were another traditional Rosh Hashanah food on my grandmother’s holiday table. The name means “apple spoon sweets,” because it was traditionally served on individual spoons with a glass of water to welcome guests.
At every Moroccan Jewish festival, the meal opens with a spread of cooked
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salads — peppers and eggplant dishes cooked in advance — and for the most part, suited to the year’s warm beginning of the New Year.
The meal continues with fish and lamb followed by the famous Moroccan pastelito. But the best is yet to come. Traditional Moroccan couscous is served with sweet carrots and dried fruit: tanzia, Moroccan-inspired tzimmes. It’s a classic Moroccan dish, reimagined with sweet and savory flavors. Traditional tzimmes is one of those staple Ashkenazi holiday dishes, generally made with carrots stewed with honey and raisins. The dish is sweet as are many Rosh Hashanah dishes, and the carrots are diced into rings, making this one of many round foods customarily served for the holiday, to symbolize a smooth year. But growing up in Israel in a Moroccan house, tzimmes were far from the traditional Eastern European version. During Rosh Hashanah, every Sephardic family in Israel would serve this — Moroccan-inspired tzimmes on a bed of rice or couscous with a sprinkle of almond and honey to brighten it up.
When I came to the U.S. from Israel as a new bride in 2001, I brought just a few beloved recipes. Today, I still remember losing one of them: my grandmother Dalia’s recipe for tanzia. I was so heartbroken that I cried and cried. Losing the recipe felt like I had lost my grandmother. I quickly wrote to my grandmother in Israel asking her to send the recipe. It came on the very thin airmail paper used in those days. I’ve been a U.S. resident for 23 years, and I still have that letter sealed in a clear protective cover. Food stains,
rips and tape yellow from age are visible, evidence of its use. Written in Hebrew, of course, my grandmother’s recipe used glasses, coffee cups and “handfuls” as measurements. I worked out more standard measurements and still make the carrots and dried fruit tajine-tanzia. This year, as always, I will welcome Rosh Hashanah with the taste of honey and a lifetime of sweet memories with Moroccan carrots and dried fruit tajinetanzia. There is nothing more festive in my eyes than this joyful dish. The colors are dark and rich, and the flavor is full of warm spices that wake up your taste buds. The combination of vegetables and dried fruit produces a harmonious, festive flavor.
Shanah Tovah Umetuka!
1 poundcarrots diced into rings
2 tablespoon extra light olive
Directions
1. Heat up oil in a wide nonstick pan. Add the onions with 1 tablespoon sugar and caramelize the onions with the sugar on medium heat for about 15 minutes until golden.
2. Add the nuts and spices and mix for a minute.
3. Add the carrots, dried fruits, Silan and water. Sprinkle salt and pepper, mix well and bring to a boil.
4. Cover and cook on low for 30 minutes or until almost all the water evaporates.
5. Serve over Moroccan couscous or rice and garnish with chopped almonds.
Personal Chef Dalia Hemed can
ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD
Naples delegation will join thousands of proud American Zionists at the Global Conference for Israel
Courtesy of Jewish National Fund-USA
Naples, Fla., July 16, 2024 — A delegation from Naples will join thousands of proud American Zionists at the Global Conference for Israel for a weekend filled with camaraderie, inspiration and riveting speakers who exemplify Israel’s positive contributions to the world.
The annual multi-day spectacular event, best known for showcasing the pride and beauty of Zionism, providing attendees with practical tools to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to antisemitism, and sharing first-hand accounts about the realities on the ground in Israel, will take place Nov. 14-17 in Dallas, Texas.
Attendees will hear insights from key thought leaders, explore an interactive Israel expo, take part in one of the largest Shabbat dinners in the world, hear what’s being done to support Jewish students on college campuses, and learn about initiatives that are already rebuilding Israel’s battered north and south.
"Our world changed on Oct. 7, but if anything, we have become more resolute and more united as a people as we work to build a stronger Israel," said Jewish National Fund-USA’s Naples Board of Directors Co-President David Braverman. "It is clear that personal connections, sharing stories, and coming together are more important now than
ever. If there was ever a time for supporters of Israel to gather, now is that time.”
Participants at the Global Conference for Israel will also:
• Explore the future of American Jewry with Rabbi David Wolpe
• Laugh with actor, comedian, and outspoken advocate for Israel, Michael Rapaport at the Saturday night gala
• Hear from Col. Richard Kemp about the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) high moral code of ethics
• Find out how antisemitism is being combatted on college campuses from Mothers Against College Antisemitism (MACA) founder Elizabeth Rand, Columbia Professor Shai Davidai and current students
• Enjoy jaw-dropping musical performances by Jewish National Fund-USA’s Special in Uniform Band
• Discover how the World Zionist Village will spark a new conversation and revolutionize Zionist and Jewish educational engagement for the decades ahead
• Enjoy an elegant Saturday evening gala
• Meet Jewish National Fund-USA’s affiliates, who will highlight the organization’s philanthropic investments in Israel
• Take part in exclusive briefings on thought-provoking topics
“It’s sometimes only through adversity that we realize our true strength and
resilience,” added Jewish National FundUSA’s Naples Board of Directors CoPresident Norman Isaacs. “Everywhere you look, Jewish and pro-Israel communities are stepping up to celebrate everything they have achieved and how our homeland has and continues to help the world. Together, we will stand loud and proud and celebrate the people of Israel and Jewish people everywhere – their grit, determination, and ingenuity as we gather in Dallas for this historic event.”
More than 2,500 philanthropists, high school students, college students and Israelis who manage and benefit from
November 14 – 17, 2024 DALLAS,
Jewish National Fund-USA’s philanthropic initiatives attended the organization’s 2023 Global Conference for Israel in Denver this past fall. The 2024 Global Conference for Israel will once again welcome thousands of pro-Israel supporters and hundreds of students at the event’s high school and college summits. Several discounted rates are available for Jewish Communal Professionals and young philanthropists ages 22-40. For more information or to register, visit jnf.org/global, email conference@jnf.org, or call 800-JNF-0099.
Attendees at Jewish National Fund-USA's 2023 Global Conference for Israel
Courtesy Jewish National Fund-USA
Birthright Israel launches programs empowering young Jewish adults in geopolitics and public diplomacy
Courtesy of Birthright Israel
Tel Aviv (July 17, 2024) – Birthright Israel offered two new programs this summer to address young Diaspora Jews’ desire to bolster their knowledge of geopolitics, public diplomacy and Israel’s counterterrorism efforts.
The programs were developed to address the global wave of antisemitism following the Oct. 7, 2023 massacre in Israel by the Hamas terror group and the war in Gaza, which resulted in more Birthright Israel participants wanting to deepen their command of these topics before returning to their hometowns and university campuses.
Geopolitics and Public Diplomacy Fellowship
This four-week program – June 20 to July 18 – was run by Birthright Israel Onward at Reichman University, in Herzliya. It combined lectures, discussions and site visits to provide a nuanced understanding of the region’s challenges. Participants developed strategic communication skills to effectively articulate Israel’s story, and they connected with a global network of advocates.
They left with an enhanced knowledge of Israel’s challenges, better equipped to present a nuanced portrayal of Israel on the international stage.
Participants, Jews ages 18–35, lived like locals in Tel Aviv. They received housing accommodations in the city, public-bus passes, shuttle buses to and from the university each day and insurance. They participated in Birthright-funded activities, day trips and a Shabbaton. Participants also engaged with their Israeli peers, visited Kibbutz Kfar Aza (one of the Jewish communities victimized by Hamas terrorists) and attended an exhibition about the Nova music festival massacre.
The most recent cohort included 16 participants from the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Birthright Israel plans to expand participation next year.
Onward Back to Campus Forum
This second program, which runs through the summer, is offered to participants of Birthright Israel Onward already in Israel for their internship. The goal of the forum is to deepen participants’ ability to face the Israel-related challenges they deal with on campuses across North America.The program has three goals: to deepen knowledge and Jewish belonging, strengthen resiliency against antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment, and develop skills and tools for combatting these forces, especially in university campuses.
During the program, which includes four meetings and a two-day retreat, participants attend meetings and sessions in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem run by prominent lecturers and government spokespersons. They return to their university campuses equipped with better tools to advocate for Israel.
“Through this program, I’ve deepened my ability to ask questions, connect with and learn from other students, and my overall knowledge on the conflict - I can’t wait to bring this energy back to campus,” said Sophie Kalmin, a participant in the Onward Back to Campus Forum
Stand Up for Justice
program. “I’ve been very involved at Emory and am eager to continue using my voice that has been strengthened both by this program and an unforgettable summer in Israel.”
“Every young Jew should understand the geopolitical dynamics, counterterrorism efforts and public diplomacy, especially in the aftermath of the October 7th massacre,” said Gidi Mark, Birthright Israel’s chief executive officer. “These two new programs can expand further and give more young Jews the proper tools and understanding of how to tell Israel’s story.”
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.
Courtesy of Birthright Israel
Matan launches inclusion initiative for people with disabilities
The initiative, The Lieberman Fellowship for Professionals in Jewish Organizations Serving Young Adults, will kick off on Sept. 5 Courtesy of Matan
New York (July 29, 2024) — Matan, a national nonprofit organization promoting disability inclusion and belonging within North American Jewish communities, has launched a groundbreaking fellowship.
The Lieberman Fellowship — made possible by the generosity of Jerry and Eileen Lieberman of Westchester County, NY — for Professionals in Jewish Organizations Serving Young Adults, is a national initiative that aims to create systemic change in the way young adults with disabilities are included within Jewish communal life. It will do so by equipping Jewish communal professionals with the necessary tools and skills to create inclusive Jewish communities for young adults, many of whom developed deep connections to their Jewish communities as children and want to continue their Jewish journey.
Despite the plethora of Jewish communal programming geared towards young adults, people with disabilities often find it difficult to ‘fit in’ or lend their talents, both literally due to physical barriers and figuratively because of attitudinal barriers. Matan believes that young adults with and without disabilities should be able to share meaningful participation in Jewish life.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 20% of young adults have a disability they were born with or acquired.
“Matan aims to change the landscape of Jewish communal organizations through ensuring that opportunities in programming, leadership engagement and employment for neurodiverse young adults become the norm,” said Matan’s Executive Director Dori Frumin Kirshner.
“Many innovative initiatives for Jewish young adults pride themselves on ‘meeting people where they are’ both supportive of various identities and ideologies (LGBTQ+, JoC, Interfaith, unaffiliated, etc.) and in how they connect to Judaism (culturally, spiritually, environmentally, etc.). How ever, disability inclusion has not been on the radar. As a result, many would-be par ticipants and employees with disabilities do not feel that they belong. Disability is the missing piece of accessibility and equity. We want to lead the Jewish community through this crucial ‘next frontier’ of inclusion.”
Matan empowers Jewish community leaders and educators through training, coaching and consultations to provide purposeful, enriching and inclusive opportunities for people with disabilities and their families. Participants of past Matan training programs have reported in a commissioned evaluative study of the effect of Matan’s methodology and resources that their training with Matan had concrete and immediate impact on the ways they think about disability inclusion both internally (such as hiring practices and understanding the needs of employees and coworkers) and in their external programs and events.
• Marketing programs through the lens of accessibility
• Becoming a disabilityinclusion ambassador and learning concrete strategies to boost an organization’s inclusion efforts
• Creating opportunities for young adults with disabilities to become lay and professional leaders
• Adapting work environments to maximize comfort for neurodivergent individuals
• Professional development specifically for managers and leaders around workplace communications with neurodivergent individuals
• Flexibility and diversity with communication tools
• Understanding how flexible work policies can enhance inclusivity
• Adapting workplace conditions (such as temperature and quiet zones)
• Adapting social programs in the workplace for neurodivergent individuals to build relationships
“Jewish institutions are not thinking enough of who is currently being left out. They aren’t aware that they're not aware, and this is something we would like to change,” Frumin Kirshner said. “We want
them to be proactive, adjust, and adopt flexibility to employees with special needs and disabilities. For example, we want them to assign someone on staff to be responsible for inclusion and belonging. We’re not only expecting them to hire young adults with disabilities, but to make sure that they include board members with disabilities, and that they include young adults with disabilities in their programming and do so in a high-quality manner.”
Matan is proud to partner with the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington (D.C.) for the inaugural cohort of the Lieberman Fellowship for Professionals in Jewish Organizations Serving Young Adults. Applications are currently being accepted. It will run from Sept. 5 through mid-June 2025.
"The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington is proud to partner with Matan to provide local organizations serving young adults with training and guidance to enhance their disability inclusion practices and capacity. Jewish Greater Washington is home to a diverse population of young adults with a variety of backgrounds and experiences. It is essential that we as a community can meet each of their unique needs as they deepen their connections to Jewish life," said Jewish Federation of Greater Washington Chief of Staff Elisa Deener-Agus.
YOU'RE INVITED
Friday, September 13 | 6:30pm
Friday, September 9, 2022 | 6:30pm
Tour our building, meet the clergy, experience the warmth of "One Family," and find out more about our pledge-based voluntary dues.
Tour our facilities, get to know Temple Shalom, the warmth or our One Family, and find out more about o ur pledge-based voluntary dues structure.
Please join us for wine and cheese, followed by Shabbat services at 7:30pm.
Stay for Soulful Shabbat, a special musical Friday night worship service at 7:30pm followed by a delicious oneg prepared by our Sisterhood.
Jerry and Eileen Lieberman, and their son, Jason (in the middle).
Photo credit: Douglas Gorenstein, courtesy of Matan
A month of introspection
TMarina Berkovich JHSSWF President
he upcoming month of Elul is when the tradition of stocktaking kicks in. As does anxiety. Do I still have enough time to … you fill in the blank, because we all get that nagging urge to finish everything we have put off for tomorrow, before Tishri, the month of renewal makes its entry. This urgency has become especially true here in Florida, since the season will be upon us in no time and most full-timers understand the impact of both its disruption and benefits on our “normal.”
Every year, like other organizations and groups in Southwest Florida, we try to catch up and plan something special for the upcoming season. Not because we want to compete with the Joneses, but because summertime makes some additional research possible and we are eager to
share it with you during our educational and entertaining programs.
Presentations you can book
We now have the following presentations we can bring to your communities: History Jews of Ukraine, The Jewish Confederates, Jews of The Caribbean, In Denial, Jews of Italy, Jews of the USSR and, of course, our infamous Partly Speculative Jewish History of Southwest Florida. Contact us for more information or to book.
Local Jewish History Film Festival
The Third Local Jewish History Film Festival will take place on Oct. 30, Nov. 4, Nov. 19 and Dec. 5, and will offer the mix of popular and brand-new films, produced specially for JHSSWF. You will not want to miss the release of “Becoming JFGN,” a three-film documentary history of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. As always in our Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers films, eyewitnesses tell this fascinating story of the transformation
Naples, Florida made from a community that was pretty much closed off to the Jews into the contemporary thriving multi-faceted Jewish “homestead” with a reputation reaching to all corners of the U.S. and Canada and into which so many are now moving.
These films will be an absolute hit with old-timers, but the newcomers will learn so much. It has been an ongoing challenge to both Jewish and non-Jewish Southwest Florida to pass on history and ideals of yesteryear to a constantly refreshing population who are frequently unfamiliar with local history and who are bringing projects from “back home.” Wouldn’t it be best to get awareness before embarking on the next adventure? Exchange ideas and expertise; merge efforts instead of replicating them? We invite you to attend all four dates, but you can choose as many as you’d like.
Florida Jewish History Month
Our Annual Florida Jewish History Month Celebration and Fundraiser event will take place on Jan. 14, 2025
at 3 p.m. Every year, we strive to bring educational materials to your attention in an entertaining format. We immerse you in history so you can appreciate the newness of Southwest Florida and compare it to places you’ve lived before. Tea with History will be a very special event with Co-chairs Monica Goodwin, Ellen Frankel and Elena Novik. Come dressed for tea — wearing your fascinator if you wish — ready to meet interesting people and enjoy delicious tea-time fare. Come chit-chat with friends, local historical figures and characters who may pop in just to share their stories.
Support The Jewish Historical Society of SWFL research, future films, events and presentations. Donate online, by mail or contact us at office@jhsswf.org. We can be reached at The Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida, 8805 Tamiami Trail North, Suite #255, Naples FL 34108, 833-547-7935 (833-JHS-SWFL) www.jhsswf.org, office@jhsswf.org.
The Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida is a 501(c)3 charitable organization. Contributions are deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
KRISTALLNACHT
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.
Hear the truth
By Nancy Wiadro, President’s Council for Collier/Lee Chapter
Hadassah has been speaking out for women and the people of Israel for 112 years. Weaponizing sexual violence is never acceptable. Not anywhere. Now is the time to speak out for these victims. #EndTheSilence
Members of the Collier/Lee Chapter Board wear yellow nail polish in support of this effort that began after the Oct. 7 atrocities.
(seated): Julie Shlensky, Janett Edelberg, Nancy Wiadro, Lee Henson, Diane Schwartz and Deena Caplan; (standing): Joyce Toub, Robbi Kempner, Iris Shur, Lila Rosenweig, Debbie Kaprove, Shelley Einhorn, Lisa
Vogel, Linda Dravin and Karen Ezrine
Photo credit: Patti Bloom
When I give to Hadassah, where does my money go?
AJanett Edelberg, Presidents Council for Collier/Lee Chapter
s one of the Presidents of the Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah, a frequent conversation I have starts like this: “I know Hadassah does good work, however, I would like to know more about when I give to Hadassah — where does my money go?”
The answer to that question is not complicated, but it does depend on the type of gift* a donor selects.
caregivers provide compassionate healing and intelligent medicine for the people of Israel and beyond.
Contributions designated for Youth Aliyah
When you give to Youth Aliyah, your donation helps young immigrants and at-risk native Israeli youth receive a full spectrum of help — shelter, food, counseling, education and other supportive services. Participants in the program get the care and attention needed to become productive members of Israeli society.
Contributions designated for Young Judaea
No contribution designation
When you give to Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc. (HWZOA), without designating your contribution to one of our mission areas, your gift allows Hadassah to apply those funds where they are needed most. By contributing an undesignated gift, you are supporting Hadassah Medical Organization, Youth Aliyah, Young Judaea and our domestic programs that focus on advocacy, education, health and wellness, and engagement initiatives in support of our core mission areas.
Contributions designated for HMO
When you designate your gift to Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO), which includes the Hadassah Ein Kerem and Hadassah Mount Scopus hospitals in Jerusalem, you are supporting high priority projects, facilities and equipment that ensure our ability to deliver exemplary clinical care and conduct cutting-edge research. Your gift helps to foster state-ofthe-art environments where our doctors, nurses, researchers, technicians and other
When you give to Young Judaea, your donation provides general support of Young Judaea initiatives, which include scholarships and opportunities that help American children and young adults ensure their passion for Jewish life and Israel while giving them the tools they need to become strong leaders of tomorrow.
* This summarizes the highlights of the HWZOA Grassroots Donations Policy for donations less than $5,000. For additional information based on donation size, please contact CollierLeeHadassah@ gmail.com with “Donations” in the subject line.
Join us to support Hadassah
Collier/Lee Hadassah is a vibrant chapter with programming to educate you about Hadassah’s mission, vision and values, entertain you with delightful performances, feed you with delicious food, and introduce you to a group of women with a wide variety of interest. Here is a listing of our upcoming events. For more details and to register (advance registration is required), please contact CollierLeeHadassah@gmail.com with “Information” in the subject line.
UPCOMING
HADASSAH EVENTS
Sept. 16
Be an Informed Local Election Voter (via Zoom only)
Oct. 15
Clive Daniel sponsored Lunch and Shopping Event (In-Person)
Oct. 18
Women’s Health Symposium focusing on women’s gynecological cancers (in person and via Zoom)
Nov. 13
Fall Meeting with Vendor Showcase and Election of Officers (in person)
Israel and Overseas Committee invites you to
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.
$18 OR BECOME A PATRON. REGISTER AT WWW.JEWISHNAPLES.ORG
Lauren Yokèd, Executive Director of American Friends of Leket Israel, will discuss the worsening food insecurity situation in Israel and how Leket Israel — Israel’s National Food Bank and largest food rescue organization — quickly pivoted after Oct. 7 to develop new solutions to support the most vulnerable populations: families in need, homebound elderly, the devastated farming community and more.
Lauren Rifkin Yokèd grew up on a 65-acre farm established by her grandfather in the 1940s in rural Monmouth County, NJ. Her family was actively involved in gleaning projects through local food banks for many years. She earned a BA from Michigan State University and a Master’s degree in Israeli Politics and Society from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Lauren’s background in farming and conviction that fresh, nutritious food can and should be made accessible to all led to her current role as the Executive Director of American Friends of Leket Israel, a role she has served in since 2011.
Learn about the current situation in Israel and the future of food security in the country.
What a year it has been … and can yet be
TRabbi Mark Wm. Gross
he Torah refers to this earlyautumn season as t’kufat ha-shanah — “the turning of the year.”
Although I share that observation with you in September, it just so happens that — due to the vagaries of our Jewish lunisolar calendar — the home-stretch conclusion of this particular trip around the sun on our Rosh haShanah New Year won’t be falling until the very beginning of October. Which is apt enough, since the bleak milestone of Oct. 7, falling only a few days afterward, serves to emphasize what a traumatic and difficult year this has been for the Household of Israel since not long after it began last Rosh haShanah.
So many aspects of our lives during the ensuing year have been influenced and actively shaped by the horrific Hamas attack on Israel’s borders on Shabbat Simchat Torah.
Stay
true
WThe Jewish world was already shaken to our core by the suddenness, scope and ferocity of the jihadists’ assault, and by the atrocities they wrought on unarmed civilians. Over the ensuing months, we have been both drawn together by the moral mandate of the hostage-rescue effort and torn apart by humanitarian concerns over the political motivations behind the IDF campaign in Gaza.
Theproliferationof antisemitic statements andgesturesoverthe pastsevenyearsisbecause thepre-existentcropof bigotsaremorevisible— not more numerous.
As for the rest of the world, their horror, pity and compassion lasted barely half a day. It is not surprising that in some quarters the Hamas jihadists were (by Oct. 8) already being lauded as martyrs to a noble cause. But it was surprising to see the array of people, across the political
to who you are
pernicious and emanates from our becoming distracted.
Rabbi Howard S. Herman DD
e live our lives surrounded by a cacophony of noise. I am not just referring to the audio of things like jet engines, buses and dump trucks, explosions, jackhammers and construction sites. This class of decibel is annoying and can be destructive to our physical anatomy, but the noise I am referencing here is more
How often do we get distracted from our set individual goals, or our motivated directions, or our morality, or our knowledge of what is the “right” thing to do and the “right way to go?” We become distracted for a whole host of reasons.
There are alluring voices all around — metaphorical and real — telling us what we should do and why we should do it. What we should want and why we should want it. What we should go after and how to go after it. What would be in our best interest and why that is so.
There is the press and the media, where opinions are never in short supply. There
and philosophical spectrum, who asserted (by Oct. 9) that Israel “had it coming” in punishment for being an arrogant occupier. And it has been most painful for us to see a surprising array of unexpected players fall in step to denounce Jews as racist genocidists.
Journalist Jonathan Tobin has highlighted that the real question here in the United States has very little to do with the tactics of the IDF in Gaza, nor with the more comprehensive challenge of how to protect the west from Iran’s many militant puppets. Tobin notes, the real question “is really about whether the lies about the one Jewish state on the planet being an ‘apartheid’ state composed of ‘white’ oppressors of people of color will be accepted by the American people.”
Based on my experience in interfaith work, over the years and over the past “almost-a-year” since Oct. 7, the answer to Tobin’s question is “No.” The proliferation of antisemitic statements and gestures over the past seven years is because the pre-existent crop of bigots are more visible — not more numerous. The public demonstrations on our streets and college campuses are the work of carefully choreographed and well-funded provocateurs
furnished with matching tents; they are neither spontaneous, nor a legitimate expression of the sentiments of our fellow Americans.
On the Shabbat after Oct. 7, our congregation at worship was outnumbered by neighbors from local service clubs and churches, present to share our grief. Over the ensuing months the spiritual leaders of our island religious fellowships have continued to express their caring and concern, responding to the invitation of the Psalmist to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem” (122:6). As Christians, they admire the People of Israel as eyewitness to the Glory of God; as Americans, they understand full well that the reborn Third Jewish Commonwealth is a beacon of justice and freedom for all. We do not stand alone.
Of course, here within the Jewish community, we stand together as well. Our greater Naples area Jewish community will be gathering for a solemn remembrance of Oct. 7, one year later. I look forward to seeing you there … as the launch of a happier New Year 5785.
Rabbi Mark Wm. Gross serves at Jewish Congregation of Marco Island.
are the politicians who lay out a roadmap of the future for us and then they pontificate what we should want and need. There are clergy, of all stripes, who also attempt to guide us in a direction, not always with the best of intentions in mind.
So, I guess what I am alluding to is that there is a hurricane of voices out there all attempting to lead us in a given, self-serving
Uniqueness,intheJewish tradition,teachesthatGod createdeachpersontobe uniqueandthateveryone hasauniquecontribution to make to the world.
direction. This is especially acute now, as we meander into the American political election season.
from, or what their personal preferences are for themselves, is treated with dignity and respect based upon a foundation of truth.
Repairing the world, also known as Tikun Olam, is the value which includes charitable works, such as the giving of loving kindness, truth and integrity. Living a life guided by truth and integrity helps create communities based on trust, cooperation and mutuality.
Sanctity of human life is a value that includes the concept of p’kuach nefesh, or “saving a life.” The Torah teaches that every person is created in the likeness of God, making each life sacred.
Uniqueness, in the Jewish tradition, teaches that God created each person to be unique and that everyone has a unique contribution to make to the world.
Judaism teaches us that the direction we need to follow is one of living a good life based on good actions, with elements like walking in God’s ways and keeping commandments. It also emphasizes the importance of acting in everyday life, rather than just having beliefs. I would like to suggest some Jewish values that can guide us in keeping our eyes on the prize. By the way, if you haven’t already figured it out, the prize is being able to continue to live in a free democracy where our values are cherished, our beliefs are consequential, our freedom is celebrated and not simply kicked to the curb like yesterday’s trash.
Justice, also known as Tzedek , is a value that includes insuring everyone, no matter who they are, where they are
What I am suggesting here is simply a snapshot of some of the values and ideals our Jewish tradition celebrates in encouraging us to move forward through life in a direction where these things will not only be adhered to but will also be used as a solid foundation to grow the next generation of humanity.
If we can keep these cherished ideas in the forefront of our minds during this upcoming election season, when we are consistently bombarded with rhetoric from all fronts, it will help us not only “keep our eye on the prize” but will also aid us in blocking out the things that chip away at these sacred and invaluable directions to guide our lives. Use your heritage as a compass. Let your ancient traditions be your GPS. These are the things which will quiet the turbulence in your soul. They have never let us down before, nor will they now.
Shalom Uvracha.
Rabbi Howard S. Herman DD serves at Naples Jewish Congregation.
The High Holy Days
MJoseph
Henson President
emories are a very significant part of life. Both our personal memories and our group memories; those we cherish and those we wish were not in our memory bank.
This leads me to my topic: The High Holiday memories built over our lifetime. I suppose I am not alone in saying my earliest High Holiday memories were, “Do we havta go?” “It is so looong and borrring.” Those thoughts quickly passed as I matured and my memories focused on the majesty of the holidays as being truly the High Holy Days, the Days of Awe, hearing inspiring sermons from the rabbi and losing myself in the Cantor’s voice.
During my adult years, I have almost always been involved in my synagogue’s administration. Most often it was with the synagogue’s Brotherhood or Men’s Club. Memories created over these years reflect the experiences of the times in which Jews found themselves. As everyone knows, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are big. Hearing Avinu Malkeinu or Kol Nidre sung and offering communal prayers of repentance brings in a lot of people. So, years back, most of my volunteer time was spent putting up additional seating, setting out the Machzorim, arranging the usher schedule and planning out evacuation routes focused almost exclusively on fire safety. The policeman (or two) that
we hired were primarily there to handle increased traffic volume.
This role changed from being a benign administrative function as certain antisemitic, anti-Zionist or anti-Israel segments took on a coarser, more physically aggressive stance. Our security needs have evolved from traffic control to watching for terrorists bent on disruption, destruction or physical harm. Most recently, mobs are massing to restrict movement or entry into public spaces — or far more worrisome — Jewish spaces.
Recognizing this dramatic shift, many Jewish organizational bodies responded by banding together with Secure Community Network (SCN), a major Jewish organization throughout North America that is devoted to strengthening security at Jewish sites. Using its own internal capabilities and liaising with law enforcement, SCN seeks to provide best practice guidance and training. Currently, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples is supporting the SCN’s development of a Regional Security Advisory for three Federation communities on the west coast of Florida. This advisory will provide security direction for Jewish organizations, one of which is Beth Tikvah. Currently, it is anticipated that the SCN oversight will be in place by early fall.
In the meantime, Beth Tikvah has taken prudent steps so that congregants can comfortably participate with their Beth Tikvah family in these meaningful services, from Erev Rosh Hashanah through the final shofar blast as Yom Kippur seals our fate for another year.
May we all have a healthy, prosperous and safe New Year with peace in Eretz Yisrael.
HIGH HOLY DAYS
If you are attending the High Holy Day services at Beth Tikvah, please call the office (239-434-1818) before Sept. 1 to let us know you are coming so we can include you on our attendance list. Also, tell us if you are bringing others and if you will join us for Break–The–Fast.
Virtual tickets for your visiting family members are $118. If you are not yet a Beth Tikvah member, tickets are $185.
Rosh Hashanah
Saturday, Sept. 28, 8 p.m. – Selichot
Thursday, Oct. 3, 6:15 p.m. – Erev Rosh Hashanah
Friday, Oct. 4, Rosh Hashanah Day starting at 9 a.m.
Saturday, Oct. 5, Rosh Hashanah 2nd Day starting at 9 a.m.
Saturday, Oct. 12, Yom Kippur starting at 9 a.m. and ending with Break–The–Fast, a catered dinner in our social hall.
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
Please call or email the Synagogue office for Membership Information and High Holiday Tickets (239) 434-1818 • office @ BethTikvah.us
An Egalitarian. Progressive congregation Member of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judasim 1459 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34109 (just west of Mission Square Plaza)
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.
n this day and age, we, unfortunately, need to take security more seriously than we’ve ever needed to in the past. We want to be able to worship in peace and safety. Are the places we worship secure enough for today’s environment? There is a way to find out.
Secure Community Network (SCN), “the official safety and security organization of the Jewish community in North America” according to their website, will do a risk assessment of your facility at no cost. They will advise on how to make your building a safe place to worship. We recently had this assessment done, and I
urge all Jewish organizations with physical facilities to contact SCN to schedule an assessment.
With summer to all intents and purposes over, we are starting to gear up for a busy season. Services are once again weekly on Friday nights at 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist church in Naples. Flamingle, our very popular get togethers to learn more about each other while doing various activities, meets once a month. We are greatly anticipating Rabbi Herman’s lifelong learning series which will be starting in October. Sisterhood is gearing up for a fabulous season with many varied programs.
If you have never been to our high holiday services, you can attend for free. If you have been, the cost is only $100 per person. Go to naplesjewishcon gregation.org for more information, not only about high holidays, but about all our programs.
Thursday, Sept. 26, 1-2:30 p.m.
From crashing a funeral at the Country Music Hall of Fame days after moving to Music City to being in the studio with Grammy Award winners, Nashville songwriter Bryan Ruby has lived more in 28 years than many people do their entire lifetimes. Ruby’s soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics have made him one of Nashville’s fastest-rising new talents, with 30 of his 400+ songs having been recorded by prominent country and pop music singers.
Join us for an intimate program filled with captivating stories, raw emotion and unforgettable tunes that will leave you inspired and wanting more. And don’t miss your chance to witness the magic as Ruby pulls back the curtain and takes you behind-the-scenes of how popular songs are written and recorded, and what happens when Garth Brooks tells you that your left shoe lace is untied right before going on stage.
Updates from Naples and Fort Myers BBYO
By Cayla Schreier, BBYO Southwest Coordinator
We hope everyone enjoyed a cool and refreshing summer.
Our Naples and Fort Myers teens spent their summers in different ways. Some went to summer camp, some worked summer jobs, some took classes and some enjoyed vacations. With summer winding down, and with the teens going back to school, the BBYO Chapter board has been taking their positions very seriously. The board members have started planning their upcoming fall 2024 events and promoting them through emails, texts and our Instagram accounts.
their other BBYO friends from across the region. Transportation for this event will be provided via charter buses. Details on pricing will follow.
We hosted two Italian ice events during the summer for those who remained in the Southwest Florida area. Our Fort Myers teens were able to meet up on Wednesday, June 26 at Jeremiah’s Italian Ice and Custard in Fort Myers. Our Naples teens were able to meet up on Wednesday, July 24 at Rita’s Italian Ice in Naples. It was great to see the teens catch up, socialize, and cool off from the hot summer heat.
Naples BBYO’s first event, an iceskating event, was on Sunday, Aug. 25 at Hertz Arena. Teens skated, played games and hung out with their Naples and Fort Myers BBYO friends.
We have some exciting events coming up in September. On Sunday, Sept. 8, teens will have the opportunity to attend the North Florida Region’s Fall Kickoff in Sarasota. The teens will travel to the beach resort, Island Grand at TradeWinds, for lunch and access to the beach with lifeguards, swimming pools, hammocks, mini golf and so much more fun! The teens are excited to spend time with
Naples BBYO plans to hold a Shabbat dinner later in the month. The date and time are TBD. We will also host International Convention Launch Night on Wednesday, Oct. 9. The time and location are TBD. Please keep an eye out for emails regarding all upcoming Naples and Fort Myers BBYO events.
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. BBYO currently reaches over 70,000 teens worldwide, with participants in over 60 countries and hundreds of chapters across the United States.
Supporting our teenage Jewish community
It is crucial to engage teens post-B’nai
Federation Star Publication Policy
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.
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.
The BBYO chapter of Naples has entered its 11th year of partnership with the 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 the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and the Temple Shalom Men’s Club. Please contact me 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.
Preparing for an exceptional school year
AEttie Zaklos Founder & Director
s we step into our 14th year at Preschool of the Arts, it feels like a new beginning. Our campus is currently under construction as we watch our “Big Build” construction project – a 17,000 square foot expansion of our facilities – go up brick by brick, day by day. We have made so much progress in such a short amount of time and are on track to complete construction within this academic year! While every new school year brings the promise of endless possibilities, this year, our potential is shining brighter than ever. This significant milestone is made possible through the generosity of Jay and Patty Baker, along with all our dedicated friends and supporters. We are immensely grateful and invite more of our community members to get involved as we continue to build a brighter future for our children. We believe so strongly in our vision for excellence in early childhood education and are working tirelessly to ensure that as many children as possible can benefit from a high-quality preschool experience during their most formative early years.
We cannot wait to open our doors to many more families next year and in the years ahead.
While the new building construction was underway, we spent time over our very short summer break preparing our campus and our team for an exceptional year ahead. Our entire facility has undergone thorough deep cleaning and received a fresh coat of paint, giving our beloved school a rejuvenated and welcoming atmosphere.
In preparation for the academic year, our amazing team also underwent a robust week of professional development and training. We were privileged to welcome Professor Rick Ellis of Bank Street College of Education to lead a series of lectures and training. Ellis is an esteemed educator with over 40 years of experience in early childhood education and has worked closely with our staff for many years to develop our educational philosophy and Reggio-based methodologies. His hands-on training sessions guided our teachers through creative and exploratory approaches, conflict resolution strategies and innovative methods for teaching literacy and math, using real-time examples.
Our very own expert educator, Assistant Director Jennifer Cashman, M.S.Ed, also conducted extensive training on our "Peace Table" and "Safe Place" initiatives, which are crucial elements in promoting social-emotional development and creating nurturing classroom environments.
SHANAH TOVAH!
Celebrate Rosh Hashanah with PJ Library
Sunday, Sept. 29th 12:30 PM
BBYO Lounge at the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples
Join us for crafts, challah, apples, honey, music, books, and friends!
RSVP to Amber programs@jewishnaples.org
We take immense pride in our leadership role in preschool education at POTA and celebrate the unique stages of childhood. We are excited to roll out new enhancements to our learning centers specifically designed for toddlers, ensuring that every child receives personalized, age-appropriate education.
We have also ensured that our dedicated teachers undergo CPR and first aid training, along with reviews of all our security protocols, to ensure the safety and well-being of all our students. We take every measure to provide a safe and secure environment where children can explore, learn and thrive.
Our innovative programs and incredible staff are an open Naples secret, and our award-winning preschool is growing exponentially every year. We are proud to welcome many new and returning students this year, and most of our classes have reached full capacity with an eager wait list.
In a rarity for Preschool of the Arts, we currently have a few openings in our
Pre-K classrooms for this school year. A few last-minute changes in enrollment have allowed for a few limited openings in these classrooms!
Our classes are renowned for their play-based approach to academic learning which gives children a warm and nurturing environment to learn the foundational skills needed to prepare for kindergarten. If you would like to enroll your child in POTA or know someone who is interested in joining our program. Please call 239-263-2620 or email NaplesPreschooloftheArts@gmail. com. Please note that space is extremely limited and likely to fill up quickly, so we encourage you to act fast.
It is an honor to provide a top-notch preschool experience for our local Naples children. We look forward to the school year ahead and sharing our highlights along the way. For more information or to schedule a tour, please visit our website at NaplesPreschooloftheArts.com or call 239-263-2620. We are excited to make this year our best one yet!
Summer of the Arts
Joyful moments at Summer of the Arts. Our 250 campers were all smiles as they explored, dreamed and discovered all summer long.
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
Peter Geffen
Topic: The Magical Story of Moroccan MuslimJewish coexistence
Tuesday, Jan 21 at 4 pm JAN 2025
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 (Yahalon) 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 (Kesey)
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.
