The Jewish News - December 2013 by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

Celebrating Jewish Life in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Israel and the World FEDERATION NEWS

Serving our community since 1971!

Published by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee www.jfedsrq.org

December 2013 - Kislev/Teveth 5774 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: 10A Community Focus 19A Jewish Interest 25A Commentary 27A Focus on Youth 31A Life Cycle 1B Jewish Happenings 13B Israel & the Jewish World

6A JCC Reunion Party draws huge crowd

7A Federation hosts area educators for ADL workshop

18A 100+ participate in Temple Beth Sholom Mitzvah Day

Volume 43, Number 12

Robert Edsel – author, producer and humanitarian – headlines People of the Book event By Sandy Chase

obert Edsel, the recipient of the 2007 National Humanities Medal, is a prolific American writer, compelling speaker, and forwardleaning businessman. Formerly, he was a nationally-ranked tennis player. And he began his business career in gas and oil exploration, propelling his company, Gemini Exploration, into the spotlight as the second most active driller of horizontal wells in the United States. He eventually sold the company to Union Pacific Resources. What he’s most known for, however, is his untiring research into the fate of European art treasures during and after World War II and the heroes who saved those treasures from the onslaught of Hitler and the Nazis. Edsel’s research became the foundation for his nonfiction books, which include Rescuing Da Vinci, The Monuments Men: Allied Heroes, Nazi Thieves and the Greatest Treasure Hunt in History and Saving Italy: The Race To Rescue a Nation’s Treasures From the Nazis. In 2007 Edsel launched the Monuments Men Foundation for the Preservation of Art (www.

monumentsmen.com), dedicating it to approximately 400 service members and civilians who comprised the Monuments Fine Arts and Archives program (MFAA) under the Civil Affairs and Military Government sections of the Allied Armies during WWII. Edsel’s Robert Edsel foundation continues the search for these men and women, five of whom are known to still be alive. His foundation persists in its quest to discover all the original leather-bound albums consisting of photos of stolen paintings, furniture and other cultural treasures. In 1945 the members of the MFAA found 39 original albums assembled by Hitler’s special task force – the ERR. Along with other records,

Robert Edsel...continued on page 2A

Federation provides religious school scholarships for 88 local students Staff Report

he Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee meeting at the Federation where this exact situation recently awarded need-based religious school was being discussed...the need to help and support scholarships to 88 local TheseJeweler funds each other, without judgment. can’t express the Family 14276 the gratName:students. ________________________________________________ InvoiceI Ref #: ________________ were made available based on a recommendation itude my family feels for assisting us in being able to from Federation’s Executive Committee; scholarscholarships...continued on page 3A ships were distributed based on applications submitted on the Federation’s website. An ad hoc committee worked to determine the best way to distribute the limited monies so that as many applicants as possible received support. Many recipients expressed their gratitude to theandFederation: This Proof must be signed returned before “As a Jew, I have always been raised to we can proceed with your order. This is your Temple Sinai Proof prior to printing. Please examine all spellbe independent, proud and to give as much to Trike-A-Thon ing and information carefully. RFJD will not be others as I possibly could. Little did I know unnoticed errors. Any raisesheld responsiblethatfor Ianywould be in a situation where I needed errors found after printing will be customer’s sole help, which was very difficult, since I was alfunds responsibility. and ways the one giving it. I was too proud to ask awareness Approval and kept my financial situation private. I felt Approved alone and helpless at times, until I was in a

30A

proof

Approved with Corrections New Proof Required A publication of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee Non-Profit Org. Klingenstein Jewish Center, 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota, FL 34232 U.S. POSTAGE Annual voluntary subscription: $25 Authorized Signature PAID MANASOTA FL PERMIT 167 Date

Keep it in the Family...

Murray Margolis

E x t r ao r d i n a ry S E l E c t i o n o f f i n E J E w E l ry

Telephone Number

Certified WatChmaker appraisals expert JeWelry repairs WatCh Batteries restringing all Work done on site

Your one-stop full-service jewelry center | Buying Precious Metals

Fax Number

T h e F a m i ly J e w e l e r

8342 market street • lakewood ranch • (941) 907-3418 • www.thefamilyjeweler.com

December 2013

FEDERATION NEWS

Robert Edsel...continued from page 1A these albums documented the art that Hitler stole for his intended museum in Austria. The U.S. National Archives has custody of many of these albums, four of which have been donated by Robert Edsel and the Monuments Men Foundation. Robert, what about art makes us human? Art is more than that. It defines who we are as a culture. It’s a legacy of our heritage. A sad, empty world would exist if it weren’t for the beauty of architecture, books, tapestries, sculpture, monuments and other works of art. During WWII all objects of art were under attack. As German forces bombed and invaded Europe, they looted an estimated five million works of art and cultural objects from museums, churches, universities and homes. Hitler plundered religious items, such as crosses and ancient Torah scrolls. But that was only part of his demonic plan. Anything representing Western culture was swept up, including valuable pieces of furniture and rare books. This practice of terminating a people, unfortunately, has continued since the Second World War. Any holocaust

wants to destroy everything people believe in. As with the Third Reich, the purpose is to devalue and humiliate, to eliminate a people. We saw it in BosniaHerzegovina, for example, where the intent was to destroy the Muslim faith. The MFAA was unprecedented, and no similar effort to protect art has been made by the U.S. in subsequent conflicts. In 2003, for example, during the war in Iraq, looters nearly emptied the National Museum of Iraq in Baghdad. We must pay attention to history to protect the future. What moved you to become interested in the MFAA’s strategy to protect civilization’s most important artistic and cultural treasures from

armed conflict – to use your words? I was living in Italy in 1997, when it had occurred to me that WWII had been the setting for one of history’s biggest art thefts by the Third Reich. I was plagued by recurring questions: Why had some monuments and other works of art survived, whereas others had not? Who saved that art? As questions led to research and answers and more questions, I was fascinated by the unfolding story about the Monuments Men. Why would middleaged, successful men and women volunteer as soldiers? Why would they leave their careers as museum directors, curators, professors and other established professions?

To hear more from Robert Edsel, join The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee for The People of the Book event on Thursday, January 16 at the Riverview High School Auditorium. Ina Schnell is the event chair; event partners include The Ringling and The Observer Group. The event is FREE to those donors making a minimum of $36 individual/$72 family contribution to the Jewish Federation’s annual campaign. Reservations are REQUIRED and can be made on the Federation’s website, www.jfedsrq.org/events.aspx, or by calling Jennifer New at 941.552.6304. Sponsorship opportunities are also available – call Len Steinberg for details at 941.552.6301.

GIVE YOUR BUSINESS GROWTH POTENTIAL. ADVERTISE WITH

Robin Leonardi • 941.552.6307 • rleonardi@jfedsrq.org www.TheJewishNews.org

CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS OF BUILDING PLURALISM IN ISRAEL AND AROUND THE WORLD Rabbi Gary Bretton-Granatoor V.P. of Philanthropy, World Union For Progressive Judaism Rabbi Bretton-Granatoor is a recognized expert in interfaith relations, well-known lecturer, author and editor. Friday, December 20 at 7:30pm Temple Emanu-El Internationally-flavored service with Shabbat prayers recited and sung in five languages Saturday, December 21 at 10:00am Temple Beth Israel Opportunities and Challenges faced by progressive Jewish communities in Eastern Europe & South America Saturday, December 21 at 5:30pm Temple Beth El Bradenton Havdalah service

In Partnership With

How did you go about fulfilling your goal? What whetted my appetite, in particular, was reading Lynn Nicholas’ award-winning book The Rape of Europa. I watched documentaries, poured over archives, asked questions. By 2004, uncovering all that I could about the MFAA became my full-time career. I gathered thousands of photos and other documents and began writing Rescuing Da Vinci. I also co-produced with Lynn Nicholas The Rape of Europa, my first documentary, based on her book. Tell us about your donation of those albums to the National Archives. Eleven are still missing. These albums are just the tip of the iceberg because hundreds of thousands of cultural items are still missing. Originally we acquired Albums 6 and 8. Two soldiers, who entered Hitler’s home at the close of the war, found these albums and took them as souvenirs, not knowing their worth. The heirs of these soldiers contacted the foundation and we donated these as well as the more recently discovered Albums 7 and 15 to the National Archives. These albums – used as evidence during the Nuremberg Trials – have become important documents to humanity. I hope that these discoveries encourage other members of the MFAA and their families, as well as other veterans, to look in their attics and basements for any wartime items that might help unravel the unsolved mystery. How successful have you been in finding Monuments Men? Five Monuments Men are still alive – four U.S. males and one British female. One of the four men, Harry Ettlinger, was 19 during World War II, where, among other German sites, he worked in the salt mines and rescued Rembrandts, rare violins and other art. Nazis knew that these mines were ideal because of the favorable conditions, so they crated and stored thousands of paintings there.

We have posted on our website requests for help in locating other members of MFAA who haven’t been found. I’m also hopeful that the upcoming film, The Monuments Men, will aid in this endeavor. We need to raise public awareness. And again, I believe that the movie will help to that end. Hundreds of thousands of works of art are missing. Each country has a database of such art. Poland, for example, lists at least 60,000 pieces of missing art. Who of the Monuments Men and Women has inspired you the most? Why? George Stout was a visionary. After the Spanish Civil War, he was concerned that destructive uses of technology to create aerial bombs, for example, made art vulnerable to fires. Furthermore, he was convinced that WWII was inevitable, motivating him to produce pamphlets exhorting the importance of protecting art in the coming conflagration. In 1941, he made the case for the conservation of art while at the Fogg Museum of Art at Harvard University. Rose Valland epitomizes heroism. She worked as a custodian of art at Jeu de Paume, one of the national museums in Paris that the Nazis used as their collection and transport center. By documenting the intended destination of art looted from Jewish collections – whether it was destined for Hitler’s Austrian museum or Goring’s home – she managed under the daily threat of death to save a vast collection. She was discovered but somehow managed to talk her way out of trouble. What was it like producing the film, The Monuments Men, which I understand isn’t your first movie? I was the consultant, not the producer. The beauty of the movie is that a cultural legacy can continue to thrive because others will share knowledge of the whereabouts of Monuments Men and the treasures that belong to our civilization. I’m hopeful that after viewing this film that descendants of the Monuments Men will also learn more about the bravery and the vital role that their fathers and grandparents played. [The Monuments Men, directed by and starring George Clooney, opens February 7.] I also understand that the Monuments Men Foundation has considered another avenue of perpetuating the Monuments Men’s story. Tell us about your educational program for classroom use. The education program is called The Greatest Theft in History, comprising a two-hour documentary, lesson plans, glossaries, timelines and other resources. The website www.greatest theft.com includes a short video, narrated by Harry Ettlinger, who describes why WWII was the greatest premeditated theft. Sandy Chase is president of WordMasters, a writing-editing company, which creates powerful business images, compelling communications, and successful fiction and nonfiction (www.theword master.net). Look for Sandy’s novel, The Resolutionary War, on Amazon.com and other online booksellers or directly at theresolutionarywar@gmail.com.

FEDERATION NEWS 3A December 2013

December 2013

Music Makes Community comes to Sarasota By Linda Buxbaum

he Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, in partnership with the Sarasota-Manatee Rabbinical Association and area religious institutions, is sponsoring a seminal cultural event in our community on Thursday, April 3 at 8:15 p.m. at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Zita Desenberg is the honorary chair of the event. This cultural event, called Music Makes Community, is presenting a world class performance of the Sacred Service by Ernst Bloch, conducted by world-renowned choral director Matthew Lazar from New York and Israel, featuring Jason Stearns, a baritone soloist from the Metropolitan Opera. Accompanying the performance will be 50 of our finest professional instrumentalists. In addition, in the second half of the concert, Matthew Lazar Maestro Lazar will conduct an inspiring Cantorial Section of works for choir and cantorial

soloists. Cantor Jeff Weber, Cantor Deborah Jacobson, Cantor Cliff Abramson and Cantor Riselle Bain will be the soloists. The final section of this unique evening will be Bima to Broadway, including selections from Rodgers and Hammerstein, Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story, and George Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess. The concert will close with a performance of Rhapsody in Blue. This will be an unforgettable evening, one that singers and lisJason Stearns teners will not want to miss! Tickets for the event are on sale through the Van Wezel box office, www.vanwezel.org or 941.953.3368. Event sponsorship opportunities are also available. Contact Kim Mullins at the Federation for details at kmullins@ jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6300. CALLING ALL SINGERS! All choristers are welcome to join in this wonderful musical event. It will be a splendid opportunity to sing great music. The chorus will be prepared by

Ann Stephenson Moe, Director of Music at Temple Beth Israel of Longboat Key and Church of the Redeemer in Sarasota. Ten rehearsals have been scheduled. Maestro Lazar will make three trips to Sarasota during this period to work with the chorus and soloists. The rehearsals will be held on Sunday afternoons at Church of the Redeemer Parish

Hall (222 South Palm Avenue, downtown Sarasota) beginning January 12 and culminating with the performance on April 3. We are confident that this will be a memorable musical event for our community. Please join us. Call Linda Buxbaum at 941.806.9130 for more information.

Sarasotajnet.org Your community e-mail List Ask for help or advice Give your opinion Help others

Get notifications of events not found in the Jewish News.

Jnet helps you “Do Jewish” in Sarasota.

To sign up, send a blank e-mail with your name on the subject line to join@sarasotajnet.org

scholarships...continued from page 1A keep our children in religious school. It is one of the most important educational connections I can give my children in maintaining their Jewish identity. We had considered taking a “break” from the synagogue to alleviate some of the financial pressure...the Federation had given us a true gift...” “Raising children is the hardest job in the world. Raising Jewish children in Sarasota adds many more challenges to our already important job. Getting this scholarship enables my husband and me to continue ensuring our children will be not only Judaically educated, but will make other Jewish friends, feel

part of a community, gain confidence, spirituality and, most importantly, feel pride in being Jewish.” “A religious school education was an essential part of my upbringing. And now the Federation scholarship program is making it possible for my son to receive similar instruction and gain an understanding of his place in the Jewish community.” Our Federation is both proud and honored to support religious school education in our community. For more information about Federation grants, contact Jeremy Lisitza at jlisitza@jfed srq.org or 941.343.2113.

Program/event ads featured in this issue AIPAC..................................31A Alexander Muss High School.....28A Author Series – Stuart Eizenstat...6A Bob Malkin Young Ambassadors.30A Camp Grants...............................30A Club Fed.....................................19B Community Teen Lock-in...........29A Defiant Requiem.........................16A Embracing Our Diffferences.......18A Faith to Faith...............................14B Haifa Symphony Orchestra..........1B Hanukkah Sing-along...................4A Israel in a Changing Middle East.12A Jews in the Military.....................15A Keyboard Conversations®..........17A Killing Kasztner..........................14B Lights in Bloom..........................27A

Lion of Judah Luncheon...............3B March of the Living....................29A Masa Israel Travel Scholarship..28A Morocco Mission........................21A Music Makes Community...17A,16B Newcomers Reception................27A Panim el Panim...........................29A People of the Book......................17A PJ Library....................................30A Purim Masquerade......................19B Shalom Baby...............................30A Send-a-Kid-to-Israel Program.....28A The Whipping Man......................18B TribeFest......................................4A Women’s Giving Circle...............19B World Union Weekend.................2A Young Adults Happy Hour..........12A

TheJewishFederation.org

WHERE WELLNESS IS NOT A CLICHÉ EXPERIENCE EXCELLENCE IN PRIMARY CARE WITH A FOCUS ON HEALTHY LIVING New Services Available in Support of Your Health!

ACUPUNCTURE & NUTRITION

Matt Frey, AP, DOM

Susan Schussler, RD, CDE

NEW PATIENTS & FAMILIES WELCOME

941-364-4411

Laura Hershorin, M.D.

Ashley Pearse Metzgar, PA-C

6120 53rd Ave. East SR70 in Bradenton

www.SarasotaCenter.com

December 2013

FEDERATION NEWS

World Union for Progressive Judaism comes to Sarasota Staff Report

he World Union for Progressive Judaism is the international umbrella organization of the Reform, Liberal, Progressive and Reconstructionist movements, serving 1,200 congregations with 1.8 million members in more than 45 countries. Of the 12 million Jews in the world today, nearly one-third live in countries where Jewish life is weak and where there are few opportunities for meaningful Jewish practice. It is the World Union’s goal to ensure that all Jews have access to the vibrant Jewish life that can best inspire them spiritually and bring their communities together practically. Our Sarasota community is home to a former WUPJ president, Gerry Daniel, and a former WUPJ Vice President, Ina Rae Levy. Both have been active

with the organization for many years. “When I started my eight-year task as President of the WUPJ, I was pleasantly surprised to discover an already existing network of Jewish liberal communities literally all over the world. We were able to bring far away but very Ina Rae Levy large and influential Reform Jewish presences closer to us in the U.S. and to each other. The benefit was a worldwide movement with new countries joining in like the Soviet Union with its millions of Jews. Our religious and social goals were brought to fruition – above all in Israel,

the base of our movement,” said Daniel of his work with the organization. Ina Rae Levy and her husband, Rabbi Theodore S. Levy, of blessed memory, visited Reform congregations around the globe during her tenure and “we were welcomed with open arms and Jewish hearts.” Rabbi Gary M. Bretton-Granatoor, Vice President of Philanthropy for WUPJ, will visit Sarasota in December to discuss the challenges and triumphs of building pluralism in Israel and around the world. Rabbi Bretton-Granatoor is a recognized expert in interfaith relations, a well-known lecturer, author of numerous articles and editor of two books. He served as the Director of the Education Division at the Anti-Defamation League and as the Rabbi Gary M. Bretton-Granatoor Director of Interfaith Affairs. He also served as Senior Rabbi at Stephen Wise Free Synagogue in New York City for eight years. He is the editor and principal writer of Shalom/Salaam: A Resource for Jewish/ Muslim Dialogue. His most recent book is called A Jewish View of Cults. In 2012, Rabbi Bretton-Granatoor was the Khatib Chair of Comparative Religion at St. Joseph’s College in New York, the first Jewish person to hold that position.

The community will have three opportunities to hear Rabbi BrettonGranatoor speak in December: On Friday, December 20 at 7:30 p.m., Rabbi Bretton-Granatoor will join Temple Emanu-El’s Rabbi Brenner J. Glickman on the bimah for a special World Union for Progressive Judaism Shabbat. Worshippers will enjoy an international-flavored service, with Shabbat prayers recited and sung in five languages. An international oneg will follow the service, featuring desserts from foreign countries in which the WUPJ is active. Michele Reich – a Temple Emanu-El member who speaks five languages – is coordinating the oneg. On Saturday, December 21 at 10:00 a.m., Rabbi Jonathan Katz of Temple Beth Israel will welcome Rabbi BrettonGranatoor to speak about the opportunities and challenges faced by progressive Jewish communities in Eastern Europe, South America and elsewhere. The WUPJ has made significant inroads in terms of the growth of these Jewish communities. Then, at 5:30 p.m., Temple Beth El Bradenton welcomes Rabbi BrettonGranatoor at its Havdalah service, when he will share the important work and global mission of WUPJ. All services are open to the entire community. For more information on the World Union for Progressive Judaism, visit www.wupj.org.

March March 16-18, 16-18, 2014 2014

New New Orleans Orleans

Hanukkah

Sing-along

Wednesday

December 4, 2013 Leading the event will be Hazzan Neil Newman with Federation’s Executive Director, Howard Tevlowitz, on guitar!

Join us for an evening of latkes and Israeli songs as we celebrate Hanukkah! 7:00 p.m. at Kobernick House 1951 N Honore Ave, Sarasota

Hanukkiot 100 • Light Refreshments This Event Is Free! RSVP Required:

www.jfedsrq.org/events.aspx

Connect, Explore & Celebrate Connect, Explore & Celebrate The RichNess OF Jewish Music, FOOd, ARTs & culTuRe The RichNess OF Jewish Music, FOOd, ARTs & culTuRe

TribeFest is an entertaining, interactive and educational TribeFest is an entertaining, interactive and educational celebration that will draw over 1,500 Jewish young adults celebration that will draw over 1,500 Jewish young adults (ages 22-45) from across North America. TribeFest will reflect the (ages 22-45) from across North America. TribeFest will reflect the vibrant setting of its host city, New Orleans, offering meaningful, vibrant setting of its host city, New Orleans, offering meaningful, fun, and top-quality content. Through presentations by dynamic fun, and top-quality content. Through presentations by dynamic leaders in politics, entertainment, music, art, food, religion leaders in politics, entertainment, music, art, food, religion and other aspects of Jewish life, TribeFest will offer attendees and other aspects of Jewish life, TribeFest will offer attendees many ways to connect to their own Judaism and how they see many ways to connect to their own Judaism and how they see themselves as part of the community. themselves as part of the community.

Wanna Wanna go? go?

Contact Jessi sheslow at 941.343.2109 Contact Jessi sheslow at 941.343.2109 or jsheslow@jfedsrq.org to discuss the details. or jsheslow@jfedsrq.org to discuss the details.

foR moRe iNfoRmaTioN

Flora Oynick, Engagement Director 941.343.2114 or foynick@jfedsrq.org

941.371.4546

www.TheJewishfederation.org

www.TheJewishFederation.org

JFedsRq

FEDERATION NEWS 5A December 2013

December 2013

Mensch of the Month: Terry Blumenstein By Sarah Wertheimer Established 1971

PUBLISHER The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Road Sarasota, FL 34232-1959 Phone: 941.371.4546 Fax: 941.378.2947 E-mail: jewishnews@jfedsrq.org Website: www.jfedsrq.org Published Monthly Volume 43, Number 12 December 2013 52 pages in two sections USPS Permit No. 167 January 2014 Issue Deadlines: Editorial: November 29, 2013 Advertising: December 2, 2013 PRESIDENT Nancy Swart EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Howard Tevlowitz ASSOCIATE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Marty Haberer COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR Linda Lipson MANAGING EDITOR Ted Epstein

erry Blumenstein is an unassuming but extremely vital member of our Jewish community. From chairing key committees to serving on the Federation’s Board of Directors, Terry has seen almost every side of our Federation. He has graciously served as Communications Chair, Education Scholarship Chair, Overseas Teen Travel Chair, Finance Committee member and more. Not only has Terry chaired and participated on committees, he has also made significant changes and additions that will continue to shape the future of our Jewish community. One of the most notable things that Terry accomplished was during his time as Communications Chair, when he completely revamped the production of The Jewish News. The changes that he championed increased the quality of the newspaper, while saving our organization significant dollars. Terry first appeared on our radar

screen when he agreed to participate on a mission to Ethiopia and Israel with our Federation. Good friend and past Federation President, Nelle Miller, was on that mission as well. After returning from that powerful mission, Terry was committed to give back to the Federation and to the Jewish community – he certainly has delivered! Terry has always had a strong connection to his Jewish roots. His father is a Holocaust survivor, and when Terry was young, he thought that “everyone’s dad was a survivor!” A few weeks after the 1967 war, Terry and his family moved to Israel, where they lived for close to one year. This only helped to strengthen his connection to Israel and the Jewish people. Terry and his family then returned to Canada, where he was raised, educated and ultimately met the love of his life, Eileen. They then moved to Sarasota in 1993 with their

first son Sam, and in 1997 Ethan was born. In addition, Terry is very committed to the Blood Bank, where he is Terry Blumenstein a member of the 26 gallon club, as well as Temple Sinai, where he served as a board member and Vice President of Facilities during the transition from old to new building, and has been on a number of committees. Terry also takes pride in being able to “use his hands.” If a sprinkler head breaks or a ceiling fan needs to be installed, friends call Terry, who comes right over with his well-stocked set of tools. His fee? An ice cold beer when the job is completed. For all these reasons and so many more, Terry Blumenstein is our mensch of the month. Mazel tov, Terry!

From Estate Planning to Wealth Enjoyment, we make the Complex Simple.

CREATIVE MANAGER Christopher Alexander

Complexity

Simplicity

ADVERTISING SALES Robin Leonardi

Your Challenges:

Our Goals:

More taxes

Less taxes

PROOFREADERS Adeline Silverman, Stacey Edelman, Harold Samtur, Bryna Tevlowitz, Debra Bryan JOSEPH J. EDLIN JOURNALISM INTERN Sammy Robbins MISSION STATEMENT: The Jewish News of Sarasota-Manatee strives to be the source of news and features of special interest to the Jewish community of Sarasota-Manatee, to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions in the Jewish community, and to communicate the mission, activities and achievements of the Federation and its Jewish community partners.

Confusion

Bruce S. Udell

Jeremy E. Udell

Enlightenment

Loss of control

Retain control

Conflicting advice Death and taxes

Congruent advice From Estate Planning to Wealth Enjoyment WealthEnjoyment.com

Life and living

Call 941-951-0443 today. Let us help simplify the complex for you. Securities offered through NFP Securities, Inc. (NFPSI), Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services may be offered through NFPSI or Udell Associates. NFPSI is not affiliated with Udell Associates. NFP Securities, Inc. is a subsidiary of National Financial Partners Corp. (NFP).

OPINIONS printed in The Jewish News of Sarasota-Manatee do not necessarily reflect those of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, its Board of Directors or staff. SUBMISSIONS to The Jewish News are subject to editing for space and content, and may be withheld from publication without prior notice. Approval of submissions for publication in either verbal or written form shall always be considered tentative, and does not imply a guarantee of any kind. Submissions must be sent electronically to jewishnews@jfedsrq.org.

22 Acre Lake Community • Spacious 1 & 2 Bedroom Residences Centrally Located • Nursing Home Benefits • Emergency Call System • Exquisite Cuisine With Gracious Dining • 24 Hr. Emergency Nursing Security Staff • Full Maintenance & Housekeeping • Computer Lab • Educational Classes • Heated Pool & Spa • Scheduled Transportation Fitness Center • On-site Entertainment & Activities • Assisted Living Facility On Campus • Locally Owned & Operated

LETTERS to the editor should not exceed 300 words, must be typed, and include the writer’s name, mailing address and phone number. Letters can be submitted via snail mail or e-mail (jewishnews@jfedsrq.org). Not all letters will be published. Letters may be edited for length and content. ADVERTISING: Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement and may require the words “Paid Advertisement” in any ad. Publication of advertisements does not constitute endorsement of products, services or ideas promoted therein.

Please call Susan Solomon at 941-923-7525 ext. 509 for details. 3435 Fox Run Road Sarasota, FL 34231

Member publication:

(ON BENEVA ROAD TWO BLOCKS NORTH OF CLARK ROAD) Assisted Living #5850

www.lakehousewest.com

FEDERATION NEWS

December 2013

JCC Reunion Party draws huge crowd By Sarah Wertheimer

ore than 150 friends reunited and reminisced at the JCC Reunion Party at Polo Grill & Bar on Thursday, October 24. This was such an exciting event! No speeches, no program, no solicitations, just plain fun! Co-chaired by David Berkowitz, Lori Greenbaum and Liz Klaber, this party did not have a dull moment. What became apparent was how much the participants really enjoy spending time together. Many expressed hope that this

“reawakening” will be the first of several opportunities to get together as a Jewish community moving forward. Bringing together all these committed community members reminds us of the wonderful things that have been accomplished in this community and what can be possible when we all come together. Special thanks to Maggie Sharff, Kim Sheintal, Patti Wertheimer, Joe Floersheimer and Jaymie Klauber for all your help with the party.

Joe Floersheimer and Patti Wertheimer

Diane Shane, Lori Greenbaum, Honey Salzman

Moving Mavens

David Berkowitz and Gina Krinsky

Assisting older adults and their families with the emotional and physical aspects of relocation.

“ I’ve moved 15 times. Now it’s

time for me to help you!”

Wendy Wicks, Moving Mavens

Specializing In: • Developing an overall move or age in place plan • Organizing, sorting and downsizing • Disposing of unwanted items via estate sales, consignment, auction, buy-out, or donation • Interviewing, scheduling and overseeing movers • Arranging shipments and storage • Unpacking and setting up your new home

Author Series

Call today for a complimentary one-hour onsite consultation: 941-554-4746 movingmavens@gmail.com • www.movingmavensflorida.com

Stuart E. Eizenstat January 30, 2014 @ 7:00pm Klingenstein Jewish Center The Zell Room 580 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota FL

Tickets: $5.00 (No Refunds)

Stuart E. Eizenstat is a senior diplomat of international reputation. His book, The Future of the Jews: How Global Forces are Impacting the Jewish People, Israel, and Its Relationship with the United States, surveys the major geopolitical, economic, and security challenges facing the world in general, and the Jewish world and the United States in particular. He also discusses the enduring nature of and challenges to the strategic alliance between the United States and Israel. Eizenstat’s provocative analysis will be of interest to everyone concerned about the future of Jews worldwide and the United States’ role in a world that is confronting unprecedented simultaneous, cataclysmic changes.

RSVP online: www.jfedsrq.org/events.aspx or call Len Steinberg @ 941.552.6301 PRESENTED BY To pre-order your copy of Stuart Eizenstat’s, Future of the Jews, please call Bookstore1Sarasota at 941-365-7900.

Liz Klaber and Judy Weinstein

Nancie Yonker, Maggie Sharff, Lydia Corn

everal local residents participated in the Federation’s October 2013 VIP mission to Israel. Standing in front of the Operation Lifeshield bomb shelter located at the Meitar Education Center in Ashkelon, which was funded through a grant by The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee, are Rick & Sharyn Nassau, Debbie & Larry Haspel, Donna & Steve Jablo, Susan Mallitz, Ilene Fox, Steve Cohen, Barbara Cohen and Randy Mallitz. This is the first protective shelter for the Meitar Center; much needed for a city targeted frequently by Hamas in Gaza. Said Steve Cohen, “We stood on hills overlooking Gaza and we entered bomb shelters, getting a sense of the vulnerability and trauma Israelis live with daily.”

FEDERATION NEWS 7A December 2013

December 2013

Israel: My home away from home By Haley Dennis

his summer I was very fortunate to be able to go to Israel for four weeks with NFTY (North American Federation of Temple Youth). This was a trip I heard about through NFTY as well as from my older sister and twin brother who went on the trip before me. Somehow I felt that this past summer was MY summer – my time to really delve into the religious aspect as a Jewish teen, and also explore the beautiful Holy Land. Arriving at JFK Airport was a nerveracking experience. At the start of the trip I did not know a single person, and I think that is what made it so worthwhile. After a 24-hour delay, group 5 was forced to form bonds that we did not think would last long. Arriving in Israel was something like no other experience. From exchanging American dollars to shekels and getting our name tags, this beautiful place was my home for the next month.

It took a while to realize I was in Israel. It was all so surreal to me. For my first time out of the country, I think I chose the right place. The first time I realized I was in the Holy Land was when we were all blindfolded on the bus. After losing our eyesight, Hatikvah (the national anthem of Israel) started playing. Then, after leaving the bus, we walked blind for about ten minutes, having to trust the people in front of us. When we were able to take off our blindfolds, we were standing at a spot where we could see Jerusalem. Instant chills ran through my body and I said to myself, “Now I have arrived.” Between making my first Israeli purchase to eating my first falafel in Israel, I got hooked on the culture and beauty of my homeland. These four weeks were packed from morning to night with such meaningful activities and trips. Having two American counselors and two Israeli counselors was

Federation hosts area educators for ADL workshop Staff Report

Ms. Judi Caliendo Middle School Social Studies Teacher, Incarnation School he Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, in partnership with the Anti-Defamation League, the USC Shoah Foundation Institute, Yad Vashem and the Sarasota School District presented a free educator workshop on Tuesday, October 29 that provided middle and high-school teachers with innovative and resourceful tools to teach the Holocaust. As an educator at a private school, Incarnation Catholic School, I had the privilege and honor to attend this excellent workshop. The attendees were introduced to Echoes and Reflections: A Multimedia Curriculum on the Holocaust. The presenter, Mrs. Stacey Jackson, did an excellent job introducing the material, as well as demonstrating how to incorporate it into the classroom. Those present were provided with a wealth of information and a complete binder filled with materials to effectively teach this historic event. The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee very graciously provided a spacious conference room and a delicious dinner. I am positive all those attending the workshop walked away with a wealth of information and a better understanding of how to teach this sensitive topic.

Sanna and David Lockart American and World History Teachers, Palmetto High School e had the pleasure of attending the ADL workshop. We were both very impressed by the presentation. Ms. Jackson was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, the overall atmosphere was warm and inviting, and neither of us came away with the feeling that someone was trying to “sell” us on something. As educators, we are so often presented with materials that are inappropriate for our subject area, our grade level, or the skill sets of our students. Very often we are told that we are expected to use these materials, regardless of their various failings. Imagine our delight to be given a comprehensive, cohesive set of lessons and curricula that can be used at various times, in various subject areas and settings, and in multiple grade levels! We teach American and World History, and various science classes, yet we both found elements that we would be able to put into use in our classes. With the further benefit of having the survivor testimonies available to us and our students, the value of the materials is impossible to measure. We are both grateful to have had the opportunity for this amazing experience! For more information on Holocaust education, contact Orna Nissan at 941.552.6305 or onissan@jfedsrq.org.

awesome. The balance was very comforting. From daily Hebrew words to speaking in Hebrew to making purchases in Hebrew, I can definitely say that I was inspired to start learning Hebrew when I returned. Those four weeks were the fastest four weeks I have ever experienced. One day I’m having my first iced Aroma coffee and the next I’m at BenGurion Airport saying goodbye to my amazing staff and my favorite place in the world. Going into this trip, I never thought I would come away being so passionate about the Jewish culture and Judaism (even more than I already was). While I think people still get tired of me talking about Israel all the time, they at least know that not a day goes by where I don’t think about that enriching, amazing month. I wouldn’t have been able to

Haley Dennis at the Western Wall

say any of this if it weren’t for Temple Sinai, NFTY or the donors of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. The support I was given before leaving is something I will always appreciate, and I will never forget the bonds I made and the passion I discovered on my trip. Israel will always have a special place in my heart. Haley Dennis is a recipient of the Federation’s Betty and Herb Schiff Senda-Kid to Israel Program (S.K.I.P). For more information about S.K.I.P and other scholarships for travel to Israel, contact Amber Ikeman at 941.343.2106 or aikeman@jfedsrq.org.

Have you taken a trip to an interesting Jewish locale? We’d love to hear about it and share it with our readers. Send your story (up to 600 words) and photos to jewishnews18@gmail.com. Please include your name and phone number. Join us at

TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM

Sarasota-Manatee’s Conservative Synagogue

in december All Are Welcome! Come Join Us! ONGOING PROGRAMS

Wednesday, December 4, 11, 18, 11:00am, Hebrew Class with Joan Braude

Daily Morning Minyan Sunday-Friday, 8:00am

Wednesday, December 4, 1:15pm, Interesting Lives with Ana Hirsch

Minyan Breakfast Wednesdays, 9:00am

Thursday, December 5, 12, 19, 11:00am, Advanced Hebrew Reading - Chug Ivri with Claire Fox in the Chapel

SHABBAT SERvIcES

Thursday, December 5, 12, 19, 1:15pm, “The Making of the Modern Jew” with Marty Cohn

Fridays, 6:30pm Saturdays, 9:00am

Thursday, December 5, 12, 19, 3:00 -

Judaica Shop, Gail Jagoda 4:00pm, Sit & Get Fit with Ana Hirsch Monday-Thursday, Saturday, December 7, Jakob Dubin 10am-3pm & Julian Read, B’nai Mitzvah Idelson Adult Library Monday-Thursday, 10am-3pm

Temple Beth Sholom

Wednesday, December 11, 1:15pm, Idelson Film Series, “Hava Nagila” Friday, December 13, 5:45pm, Congregational Dinner; 7:00pm, Friday Night Live Wednesday, December 18, 1:15pm, Book Review Jack Poleges will review “King David: The Real Life of the Man Who Ruled Israel,” by Jonathan Kirsch

Sunday, December 21, 22, 941.955.8121 Saturday, Kadima Convention info@templebethsholomfl.org Tuesday, December 24, 7:00pm, www.templebethsholomfl.org “What are you doing on Christmas Eve?” TBS Men’s Club presents Chinese Dinner 1050 S. Tuttle Ave. & a movie

Sarasota, FL 34237

Saturday, December 28, Godofredo Herzog celebrates his 2nd Bar Mitzvah

Home of Temple Beth Sholom Schools:

Sarasota educators at ADL Workshop

• The Martin and Mildred Paver Religious School – 941.552.2780 • Justin L. Wiesner Pre School – 941.954.2027 • Goldie Feldman Academy Grades K-8 – 941.552.2770

December 2013

FEDERATION NEWS

Obituary: Robert Mazer, chemical company founder, owned a piece of White Sox, 1923-2013 By Jared S. Hopkins, Chicago Tribune reporter, October 23, 2013

obert Mazer made his fortune through the chemical company he founded, but it was in baseball where he fulfilled his dreams. Mr. Mazer was a successful industrialist and philanthropist when he bought into the Chicago White Sox in 1988, becoming the team’s largest shareholder. He attended nearly every home

game over the past quarter-century, dutifully watching from an owner’s box stocked with Tootsie Rolls and jelly beans. “He loved baseball,” said his daughter, Julie. “It was his passion, it was his dream.” Mr. Mazer, 90, died of natural causes Friday, October 18, his family said. He was a resident of Chicago.

“These we honor” Your Tributes

ANNUAL CAMPAIGN GET WELL Mickey Fine Irene and Mark Kauffman IN HONOR OF Marla and Rob Katz Beth Mann IN MEMORY OF Jill Colton Irene and Mark Kauffman Marcella Hazan Julie and Josh Green Florence Levitt Phyllis and Albert Dworkin Stanley Rosenstock Bob Chalphin Jerry Roucher Sue Jacobson

MAZEL TOV

Linda and Norman Lipson – 25th Anniversary Barbara and Alan Katz Alex Rose – Bat Mitzvah Irene and Mark Kauffman

BOB MALKIN YOUNG AMBASSADORS IN MEMORY OF Jewel Ash Rebecca and Rich Bergman Glenn Greber Patti and David Wertheimer Marcella Hazan Patti and David Wertheimer Cliff Jacob Sandra and Lew Hanan Barbara and Alan Katz Patti and David Wertheimer Shary Newman Patti and David Wertheimer Jerry Roucher Rebecca and Rich Bergman Barbara and Alan Katz Patti and David Wertheimer Scott Soliday Joanne Adams

MAZEL TOV

Pam and Richard Hershorin – Marriage Patti and David Wertheimer

NOTE: To be publicly acknowledged in The Jewish News, Honor Cards require a minimum $10 contribution per listing. You can send Honor Cards directly from www.jfedsrq.org. For more information, please call 941.552.6304.

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP FUND

IN MEMORY OF Jewel Ash Ilene and Michael Fox

MAZEL TOV Betty Schoenbaum - Birthday Bunny and Mort Skirboll

ISRAEL PROGRAMS IN MEMORY OF Jewel Ash Jeremy Lisitza and Michael Shelton Bob Mazer Ilene and Michael Fox Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz Jerry Roucher Judith Brazen and Daniel Pine Liz Duda Shirley Fein Ruth and Bruce Fleegler Ilene and Michael Fox Grace Goldstein Ruth and Joseph Golov Cheryl and Scott Gordon Sandra and Lew Hanan Wendy and Michael Katz Phyllis and Saul Lowitt Susan B. and Jack Steenbarger Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz The Jazz Club of Sarasota, Inc.

MAZEL TOV

Elli Streit – Birthday & Bar Mitzvah Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz

JEWISH BURIAL FUND IN MEMORY OF Jerry Roucher Jeremy Lisitza and Michael Shelton

SALLY FINE OVERNIGHT CAMP SCHOLARSHIP FUND IN MEMORY OF Harvey Green Shira Goodman and Family

SKIP (Send a Kid to Israel) MAZEL TOV

Shelly and Sy Goldblatt – New Home Sally Joselson and Family Pam and Richard Hershorin – Marriage Bonnie and Michael Chisling Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz

Mr. Mazer, a chemical engineer, distributed chemical emulsifiers and created Mazer Chemical and built it surfactants, and created the key ingreinto a 250-employee enterprise before dient for Bounce fabric softener dryer selling it in 1985. He used the proceeds sheets. The company was purchased by from the sale to invest in the Sox. Pittsburgh Paint and Glass in 1985. Eddie Einhorn, White Sox vice In 1988, Mr. Mazer, who was a third chairman, said he will baseman in high school, never forget Mr. Mazer invested in the Sox afand his wife, Claire, last ter being introduced to summer using walkers to the team’s chairman and get to a game at U.S. Celcontrolling owner, Jerry lular Field. Reinsdorf, through Burt “He loved the game,” Ury, a friend from HighEinhorn said. “He came land Park with whom he to a lot more games than a played tennis. lot of others did. As it got “It was an easy decia little tougher, he made sion,” said Ury, a fellow that effort. It’s not an easy Sox investor. “Bob had effort to go to a ballgame. a lifelong desire to own Robert Mazer He never complained.” part of the team...and Mr. Mazer was an eternal Sox op- they had a winter place in Sarasota, so it timist, always flipping the conversation was kind of natural. The team was traintoward how the team’s pitching was im- ing down there for a while and he would proving or the hitting was developing. go to every spring game there.” When asked by the Tribune earlier Mr. Mazer became the largest inthis year about the future of the team, dividual shareholder in the team; there Mr. Mazer said, “Well, I’d like us to are dozens of investors because of the win another World Series. That would corporate structure. Earlier this year, do the job.” Mr. Mazer told the Tribune he still held Mr. Mazer was born in Milwaukee the highest percentage, more than 14 on August 11, 1923, to Russian Jewish percent. immigrants. The youngest of five chilMr. Mazer was a faithful attendee dren, he excelled in math and science, at board of directors meetings and, like played baseball and football, and was fellow investors, left the team’s operaa quarterback in high school. His first tions to Reinsdorf. Instead, he wanted job was working with his father, who to enjoy being a fan. Family friend Rob Novotny said bought and peddled fruit out of a truck. He attended the University of Wis- everyone respected that when watching consin at Madison and studied chemi- games. “He was there to watch the game,” cal engineering until joining the Navy during World War II. He served as a said Novotny. “You didn’t talk to him technician and was assigned to the di- during the game, you didn’t talk to him vision headquartered at Navy Pier. He a lot between innings...His passion was also played on the armed service base- baseball.” His last game was the season finale, ball team. Mr. Mazer used the GI bill to com- a loss to the Kansas City Royals. When he was buried this week, a Sox flag was plete his degree in 1947. Mazer met his future wife, Claire draped across the casket. Reinsdorf, who spoke at the servicGlantz Hiken, in 1956 at a wedding at the Belden Stratford Hotel in the Lin- es, said in a statement that Mr. Mazer coln Park neighborhood. After getting and his family were devoted fans and married, they moved to Highland Park, proud of the team. “I saw Bob and Claire at the ballwhere they lived for more than 40 years park as recently as September – so even and raised a family. In the early 1960s, with a $200 loan in a tough year he kept cheering – and from his father, he started Mazer Chem- we all were terribly saddened to hear ical in a leased warehouse at 32nd Street of his death,” Reinsdorf said. “Bob and Shields Avenue, in the shadow of cared very passionately for his family, old Comiskey Park. his community, his country, the nation The company manufactured and continued on next page

FEDERATION NEWS 9A December 2013

December 2013

What if Prime Minister Netanyahu is right? By Rabbi Howard A. Simon, co-Chair of The Robert and Esther Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative ran has a new president. His name ceremony at the Iran Air Force Acadis Hassan Rouhani. He smiles a emy: “We are pessimistic about Amerilot. He is the exact opposite of his cans and have no trust in them. The predecessor. He spent fifteen minutes American government is untrustworthy, on the phone speaking with President disloyal, considers itself superior and Obama, which represented the first breaks its promises.” leader-to-leader conversation between Does that sound like someone who the United States and Iran in thirty-five wants to enter negotiations with the years. President Rouhani United States? calls for “serious and subIn the midst of all stantial” talks with the U.S. this talking back and regarding nuclear weapons. forth, Israel’s Prime Secretary of State Kerry met Minister spoke at the with an Iranian envoy in the meeting of the United first high-level talks in deNations. He was blunt. cades. While this campaign His statements left no to “win the West” has been room for doubt. His going on, Iran has enriched guarantee was, “If Isnearly 3,100 kilos of uranirael is forced to stand um in the last year, according alone, Israel will stand Rabbi Howard A. Simon to the International Atomic alone. Israel will not Energy Agency. allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons.” While all of this nice-nice charade Why did Prime Minister Netanyahu is carried on by President Rouhani, the speak in such unequivocal terms? Bereal power in Iran, the man who has to- cause Iran has made it clear, time and tal control of all aspects of Iranian life time again, that its goal is to wipe Isincluding the development of nuclear rael off the map. Benjamin Netanyahu weapons, the Iranian Supreme Leader does not trust Iran, its president or its Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, recently made Supreme Leader. the following statement at a graduation The United States wants to give

Robert Mazer...continued from page 1A of Israel and his Chicago White Sox. He will be missed on opening day next spring.” Mr. Mazer often donated the use of his suite at U.S. Cellular Field to charitable organizations. He and his wife were also founding members of Temple B’nai Torah and the Birchwood Club, both in Highland Park. He played major roles in advancing Jewish causes, including World ORT; the American Israel Public Action Committee, whose national board he was on for years; and the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, which he helped create. He was also active in the Republican Party. “He wasn’t showy. He wasn’t flashy. He didn’t have to be at the front of every line. He was honest and just wanted to be a productive member of the Jewish community in whatever way that he could,” said Shelley Fagel, a

longtime friend and past president of ORT America. Mr. Mazer is also survived by another daughter, Leslie Westfall; two sons, Neal and Cliff; and nine grandchildren. Tribune reporter Colleen Kane contributed. jahopkins@tribune.com Twitter @jaredshopkins Copyright © 2013 Chicago Tribune Company, LLC Bob Mazer was in every sense of the word a gentle man, a gentleman, a mensch and an ardent Zionist. There was a simple sweetness about him and I will miss the chats we had about baseball, politics and Israel. – Howard Tevlowitz, Executive Director, The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee

We don’t necessarily have all the answers, but we are...

unique adjective

being the only one of its kind, unlike anything else...

December 2: Hanukkah Party at Southgate! December 7 and 21: “Women In the Bible” class before services December 10: Literature Class Begins December 13 and 27: Kabbalat Shabbat for more information visit our website www.congkh.org Congregation Kol HaNeshama ·

Sarasota’s Reconstructionist Congregation South Gate Community Center · 3145 Southgate Circle · Sarasota, FL · 941·244·2042

diplomacy a chance, wants to engage in talks with Iran’s new president, wants to delay any possible military strike at nuclear bases in Iran. That sounds positive, unless Prime Minister Netanyahu is correct and all Iran wants to do is stall for time so it can continue to develop its nuclear arsenal. If the Prime Minister is correct, then his statements at the United Nations gathering have even greater meaning, and his plea for the world to do the following three things should be given the utmost consideration. These are the wishes of the Prime Minister: 1. Keep up all sanctions. If Iran advances its nuclear weapons program during negotiations, strengthen the sanctions. 2. Do not agree to any partial deal. A partial deal would lift international sanctions in exchange for cosmetic concessions that will take only

weeks for Iran to reverse. 3. Lift the sanctions only when Iran fully dismantles its nuclear program. That is what the leader of the State of Israel believes is necessary and must be done. If he is correct, then these three provisions must be in place at all times, in every negotiation. If he is correct, Israel must stand firm in defense of its land and its people. All options, including an attack on Iran, must be kept on the table. Give diplomacy a chance, to be sure, but at the same time remain vigilant, remain alert and remain ready to respond to whatever emanates from Iran and from its leaders. For more information about the Heller IAI, please visit www.sarasotaloves israel.com or contact Jessi Sheslow at 941.343.2109 or jsheslow@jfedsrq.org.

GRAB THIS DEAL

Buy 1 grab bar & get 1 FREE

Your Bathroom Safety Specialist Moen Distributor • Certiﬁed Residential and Commercial • Licensed, bonded, and insured in Florida • ADA Compliant

FREE

INST ALLA TION

Always reachable at

941-966-0333

www.drgrabbars.com

A New Concept In Senior Living

Bring in this ad for $200 off your first month’s rent • Maintenance-free independent living • No entrance fee or buy-in • Fully appointed one and two bedroom apartments that are up to 55% larger than some other area independent retirement living options • The best dollar-for-dollar value for independent retirement living in greater Sarasota County • State-of-the-art Clubhouse featuring a fitness center, heated outdoor swimming pool, sun deck, summer kitchen, craft room, game room, cyber cafe and more 4 Maggie Lane • Sarasota, FL 34232 (At the corner of Fruitville and Beneva)

Call 888-398-6556 for more information or to schedule a visit!

www.VillaGrandeatSarasota.com

10A

COMMUNITY FOCUS

December 2013

Happy Hanukkah

Tidewell Hospice is committed to meeting the spiritual and physical needs of our patients and families.

As a certified Jewish Hospice, Tidewell offers: • Mezuzah and Shabbat candles • Bible and prayer book • Spiritual consultation with Rabbi on request • Doula services through Jewish Family & Children’s Services

I nform at i o n : w w w.t i d ewel l. org • 9 4 1 - 5 5 2 - 7 5 00 • 855-Tid ewell

This month’s advertisers This publication is brought to you each month thanks to the support of our advertisers. Please be sure to use their products and services, and mention that you found them in The Jewish News. Abrams Dermatology...................13B Ackerman, Barbara, REALTOR®...4B AMIT Legacy Society....................8B Arthur Fox Earring Boutique......14A David M. Barach............................8B Cat Depot.....................................14B Center for Sight............................14A Center for Hearing........................12B Chabad Sarasota..........................32A Chevra Kadisha............................31A Classifieds..................................25A Janis & Mary Collier, REALTOR®.13A Congregation Kol HaNeshama.9A,3B Cortez Foot & Ankle....................18A Dan Dannheisser..........................15B Dermatology & Laser Institute.....20A Dr. Grab Bar...................................9A Ellman, Norman, Ph.D., A.B.P.P...25A The Family Jeweler........................1A Fresh Start Cafe............................25A Fringe Spa & Salon......................22A Glasser Schoenbaum Human Svc.13A The Glenridge on Palmer Ranch...15A Stacey Grad, Morgan Stanley.........1B Grimefighters...............................12B Inspired Living at Sarasota...........15B Israel Bonds.................................13B Jewish Museum of Florida - FIU..24A John Burr Productions..................22A Kelly Gettel & Co..........................9B Kobernick Anchin..................21A,7B Koontz & Parkins CPAs..............23A Lakehouse West.............................5A Lerner Cohen Medical.................10B Lifelong Learning Academy........20A Longboat Key Dental.....................3A Longboat Key Education Center..23A Marina’s Face, Body & Nail Care...4A Mayta’s Peruvian Restaurant.........7B Merkt, Judith................................19A Michael’s On East........................14A Mishner, Dr. Harvey.......................9B

Monsky, Marie, REALTOR®..........6A Morton’s Gourmet Market.............2B Moving Mavens.............................6A Nellie’s Deli & Catering...............26A NFP Consulting Resources..........20A Optical Services...........................25A ORT America...............................19A Paisano’s Italian Bakery...............10A Palms-Robarts Funeral Home......31A Perlman Music Program................5B The Players Theatre.......................1B Polo Grill.......................................6B Publix.........................................17B Randabi’s Deli...............................8A Sarasota Brides & Formalwear......6B Sarasota Center for Family Health..3A Sarasota Concert Association.........5B Sarasota Craft Show.......................4B Sarasotajnet.org.............................3A Sarasota Orchestra.....................insert Sarasota Plastic Surgery Center.....7B Sarasota Yogurt Company..............2B Skyway Memorial Gardens.........31A Sleep King......................................2B Stern, Richard - Baird & Co............4B Taradash, Shirley & Sherwin, P.A..15A Temple Beth El North Port...........10A Temple Beth Sholom................7A,9B Temple Beth Sholom Schools.......29A Temple Sinai................................13A Tidewell Hospice.........................10A Toale Brothers Funeral Homes......31A TooJay’s........................................3B Udell Associates............................5A Urology Treatment Center............10B USF..............................................11A Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall...20B Villa Grande...................................9A Waterside Retirement Estates.........6B WordMasters..............................10B WUSF Public Media....................11B

The “Eat”iology of the Jewish people’s relationship to food

Marden Paru, Dean, Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva ews have a special relationship with food going back to early biblical times. Ever since, the preoccupation with cuisine has been the backbone of hearty celebrations, even during times of famine and starvation, over the four thousand years of Jewish history. How did it come to pass that repasts (se’udot mitzvah) became such a part of our tradition? Nearly every Jewish observance involves food, save Yom Kippur, Tisha B’Av and other fasting days, but they also begin and end with food. There is a witty saying about the Jewish people of ancient times: “We went to war; we won; let’s eat!” Which of our human drives accounts for this description? To be aggressive when threatened? To be victorious against overwhelming odds? Or simply our need to replenish energy and/or to reward ourselves for a job well done? It is probably all of the above, but we did it with panache. Many of those victories instigated special meals, food stuffs and customs as the commemorative value of those spectacular events and circumstances of yore: Hanukkah, Purim, Passover, Shavuot and Sukkot. Our lifecycle events are likewise commemorated with special meals and refreshments: circumcision, baby naming,

Sponsored by

pidyon haben, bar/bat mitzvah, graduation, marital engagement, wedding, and the post-funeral shiva meal. A new course, starting Friday, January 3 – “Eat”iology: The Jews’ Relationship to Food – will explore the origins, history and evolution of our eating (and drinking) customs. There is an ethnic as well as a social perspective that has been preserved during all these millennia of Jewish culture. The discussion and materials will focus on the values expressed through eating and the customs they represent. The course will also touch on the cuisines of the many Jewish subcultures: Eastern European (Polish, Russian, Galician, Lithuanian and Hungarian), Israeli, Mediterranean (Moroccan, Italian and Sephardic), South American and Oriental. Although this is not a cooking class, learners will be exposed to new recipe resources, preserved ethnic information not wellknown, as well as a new understanding of Jewish cuisine. That’s quite a buffet of opportunity! To register, please contact me at 941.379.5655 or marden.paru@gmail. com.

Scholarships for non-traditional students

re you at least 27 years old, male or female, returning to school after a hiatus, wishing to further your post high school education, and in need of financial assistance to reach your goal? The Sarasota-Manatee Section of National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a volunteer organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for women, children and families. NCJW is pleased to announce its Fourteenth Annual Scholarship Fund Awards, which recognizes and promotes the education of the non-traditional student. The awards ceremony will take place in April 2014. Scholarships will be awarded an-

nually for tuition and are based on the following criteria: 1. financial need 2. academic history and goals 3. registration at an accredited educational facility 4. returning to or have returned to school after a five-year hiatus 5. U.S. citizen and permanent resident of Sarasota or Manatee counties The application deadline is February 21, 2014. Please call the NCJW 24-hour hotline at 941.342.1855 and leave your name and number. Request that scholarship application forms be sent to you. A local NCJW representative will contact you.

PaiSanO’s Italian Bakery

941.926.8422 Mon-Sat Sundays

9am-6pm 9am-3pm

Voted #1

Bakery By Our Customers! Hanukkah Cookies • Hamantaschen • Babka • Apple Strudel • Rugala

2736 Stickney Point Road

www.PaisanosItalianBakery.com

COMMUNITY FOCUS 11A December 2013

One Survivor’s Story

December 2013

11A

Sponsored by

By Sue Hargis Spigel

ugenie Mukeshimana never worried about bad things happening in her village in Rwanda or about being in the wrong ethnic group. “There was so much love in that village, so much love in my home,” said the Genocide Survivors Support Network founder and executive director at One Survivor’s Story, the seventh Humanity Working to End Genocide rally, at Church of the Incarnation on Sunday, October 20. After a civil war began, Eugenie learned that exiled Tutsis were the “enemy.” Her parents told her not to walk home alone or after dark and to use different bus stops. Hutus began calling the Tutsis cockroaches. “You cease to be a human being in their eyes. The cockroach calls for

extermination; it’s as simple as that.” The Tutsis thought they would be safe when United Nations troops arrived. They had Hutu friends and thought there were just some “crazy ones on the radio and among politicians.” When Rwanda’s president, a Hutu, was assassinated by unknown killers in April 1994, all Tutsis were marked for death. At first, Eugenie, eight months pregnant, and her husband gave money to fend off machete-bearing attackers. Next, they hid in a school and then separated when she was allowed to stay in a house but he wasn’t. She then spent weeks hiding under a children’s bed, unknown to the children. She discovered four other women were hiding in that tiny home. In the next house, the Hutu woman who hid her also ordered killings or saved

Bishop Frank Dewane, Catholic Diocese of Venice; Eugenie Mukeshimana, Founder and Executive Director of Genocide Survivors Support Network; Rabbi Howard Simon, co-Chair of The Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative; Reverend Dr. Tom Pfaff, Chair of the Sarasota Ministerial Association; Professor Lawrence Miller

whomever she pleased, while her sons went on killing expeditions. Eugenie was hiding alone outdoors at night when she went into labor and gave birth to a daughter (who now attends college in the United States). Eugenie Mukeshimana lost her husband, father, sister and friends. After the genocide, people developed a new way of talking – not about the dead, but about who was alive. Generally, Rwandans have not taken revenge. However, forgiveness must be a “two-way street.” The perpetrators must demonstrate that they understand the wrong they did. She advised her audience to be soldiers for this cause, and that the younger generation will take on the cause. “I’ve never seen an organization like this anywhere else,” she remarked. Professor Lawrence Miller, a rally co-chair, said, “We can never be complacent and believe if it’s not happen-

ing here, what difference does it make to me?” Rabbi Howard Simon, co-chair of the Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative, stated, “Genocide is the scourge of the modern world. Ours is an arduous task, but we will not give up.” Incarnation Catholic School students presented a dramatic reading about twentieth-century genocides, and The Westcoast School for Human Development Chorus sang. Rally donations exceeded $2,000, to be divided among ShelterBox, Doctors without Borders, and Genocide Survivors Support Network. The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is a sponsor of Humanity Working to End Genocide, a volunteer coalition dedicated to maintaining a local community of conscience, calling for the end of mass atrocities throughout the world.

Humanity Working to End Genocide steering committee with co-chairs of One Survivor’s Story

12A

COMMUNITY FOCUS

December 2013

National Council of Jewish Women, Sarasota-Manatee Section’s 32nd Annual Women in Power Luncheon he National Council of Jewish Women, Sarasota-Manatee Section’s 32nd Annual Women in Power Luncheon will be held on Wednesday, January 15 at 11:00 a.m. at Michael’s On East. The event will honor four women whose accomplishments mirror NCJW’s focus on social justice by improving the lives of women, children and families, and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. “This is a wonderful way to support NCJW’s local community service projects and hear motivational stories of how these women have added to the richness of our community,” said co-Chairs Nicci Kobritz and Caroline Zucker. The cost is $72. For a personal invitation or more information, please call 941.342.1855. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideas into action! Roxie Jerde Community Collaborator, Philanthropic Thought Leader, President & CEO Community Foundation of Sarasota County Roxie Jerde has served as President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County since March 2011. Roxie has worked closely with Community Foundation donors, along with area nonprofits, businesses and foundations, to address important issues affecting our community. She spearheaded the launch of DonorEdge – locally branded as The Giving Partner – in partnership with The Patterson Foundation, Gulf Coast Community Foundation and Manatee Community Foundation, and has been a leader in numerous community collaborations including Season of Sharing, a

fundraising campaign to provide assistance for those on the verge of homelessness; Campaign for Grade Level Reading, which has the goal of ensuring that students read at the third-grade level by the end of third grade; Any Given Child, which works to expand arts education, ensuring access and equity for all students in grades kindergarten through eighth grade; and EdExploreSRQ, an initiative that provides students with valuable exposure to arts, science and culture through “explorations,” inclassroom and off-campus experiences that are offered by numerous local arts and science partner organizations. Gwen MacKenzie Community Educator, Healthcare Advocate, CEO Sarasota Memorial Healthcare System Gwen M. MacKenzie is President and CEO of Sarasota Memorial Health Care System, a regional medical center consisting of an 806-bed hospital, physician practices, and a network of specialized medical campuses and clinics that include a nursing and rehabilitation center, home health, psychiatric hospital, urgent care centers and outpatient centers. As the only public hospital in the Southwest Florida region, Gwen oversees nearly 4,000 staff members, 1,000 volunteers and 800 physicians. As a true visionary, she has seen it become one of the largest acute-care public hospitals in the nation and is currently Sarasota County’s second-largest employer. The organization is the only hospital in the region with “Magnet” status – the nation’s highest honor for excellence in nursing. Under Gwen’s able leadership, Sarasota Memorial was named one of HealthGrades’ “America’s 50 Best Hospitals” and is ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals.

Kimberly Sheintal Community Volunteer Champion, Sarasota County Public School Volunteer and Author When Kim moved to Sarasota 43 years ago, many people had not even heard of Sarasota. Few people in town can claim as she does, to have volunteered for more than ten different organizations and schools, many at the same time, and be the most active person in each of these. She has served as president of five local organizations: Jaycee-ettes (woman’s auxiliary of the Jaycees), Sarasota Evening ORT Chapter, Area Council of ORT America, Women’s Division of The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee, and the Jewish Genealogical Society of Southwest Florida. As a Sarasota County Public School volunteer for over 25 years, she twice received the award for the most active Sarasota County School Volunteer. She is currently the Membership Vice President of her synagogue and has gotten much satisfaction by watching the temple membership increase substantially since her vice presidency began four years ago. She is also the coordinator for the Association of Professional Jewish Artists. All of the above has been done as a volunteer. She recently published the book Jews of Sarasota-Manatee, and joined the Historical Society of Sarasota County and the Manatee County Historical Society.

Judy Weinstein Past President The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, Community Activist and Equal Rights Advocate Judy moved to Sarasota in 1988 along with her late husband Leon. They both focused their lives on making the world a better place for all peoples. She became involved immediately and then assumed leadership roles with Jewish Family & Children Service, served for three years as President of the Flanzer Jewish Community Center, and then served The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee as President for two years after completing a Strategic Plan for the organization and serving as President of its Women’s Division. Both Judy and Leon were very active in the gay community, having established a chapter of the national organization PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays), which offered support and assistance for many years through monthly meetings. They had a hotline in their home, and were involved with other organizations fighting for equality for gays. Judy was instrumental in forming the gay youth group “ALSO for Out Youth” that is serving young people to this day. Judy is still extending herself to building community with her involvement in a project at the Senior Friendship Center, and as a member of the search committee for a new rabbi at Temple Beth Sholom.

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

Israel: In a ChangIng MIddle east

THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF SARASOTA-MANATEE INVITES YOU TO A

Young Adults Happy Hour Join us for a drink with other young Jewish adults in Sarasota-Manatee!

Dr. Kedar, Director of the Center for the Study of the Middle East and Islam (under formation), a research associate of the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies and a lecturer in the Department of Arabic at Bar-Ilan University in Israel, is one of Israel’s leading figures in understanding the Arab world. He is the Middle East analyst of the daily newspaper Makor Rishon, as well as other publications and is a frequent guest in the Israeli, Arab and international media. Presented in partnership with

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10TH: 5:30-7:30pm MEET US AT: Social Eatery & Bar, 1219 First Street, Sarasota, FL For more information about the Young Adult Division, please contact Jessi Sheslow: 941.343.2109 or jsheslow@jfedsrq.org

FEbRuARy 3, 2014 FREE ADMISSION

7:009:00pm Ringling College of Art & Design Academic Center Auditorium Please RSVP, seating is limited. Questions? Contact Jessi Shelsow at 941.343.2109 or jsheslow@jfedsrq.org

PlEASE RSVP ONlINE @ www.jFEDSRQ.ORg/EVENtS.ASPx

COMMUNITY FOCUS 13A December 2013

December 2013

Chabad hosts “A Taste of Chanukah”

L’Dor V’Dor

Sponsored by

he community is invited to attend “A Taste of Chanukah,” a free, outdoor holiday festival, on Sunday, December 1 from noon to 5:00 p.m. at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. This year’s event will feature kosher food prepared by Michael’s On East, Mattison’s, Veg, Delicious Creations and Randabi’s Deli. The entertainment will include the following: a tightrope walk by the Wallenda family, a llama show, a skateboard and trampoline show, a giant 3-ton snow slide, stilt walkers, face painting, jugglers, balloon sculptors, snake and bird shows by Jungle Gardens, a performance by the Riverview Highland

Dancers, the Kol Yisrael Orchestra, and the kindling of a 30-foot Menorah. You will also have an opportunity to purchase unique gifts from various vendors. Appreciation is extended to the many event sponsors including The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. For more information or to volunteer, visit www.atasteofchanukah.com or call the Chabad of Sarasota office at 941.925.0770.

13A

From Generation to Generation

Janis Collier Realtor®

941.313.1212

Serving the Jewish Community for 31 years Make Your Next “Smart Move”...contact us JanisCollier@michaelsaunders.com MaryCollier@michaelsaunders.com

Mary Collier Realtor®

941.400.7015

Selling Waterfront • Golf Course • & Other Residential Communities

1801 Main Street • Sarasota, FL 34236• 941.951.6660

C  u  r a!

Rhythm & Jews Shabbat Service - Dec 6th Scenes from last year’s Chanukah event

Mitzvah Knitting Groups: creativity with a purpose

Welcome Reception - 5:15 pm, Service - 6:00 pm, Traditional Shabbat Dinner to follow.

This musical service features The Bruno Trio and will recognize Rabbi Huntting’s 20 years of dedication to Temple Sinai and the Jewish Community. Dinner reservations can be made on the Temple website.

By Carlene Cobb

olunteer Susan Bernstein arrives at Kobernick House every week with soft yarns and plenty of ideas for the ladies who gather to knit, a Mitzvah Knitting Group. Each handcrafted creation becomes a gift for someone in need. “About a year ago, I started coming to this knitting group, and it has been ongoing for many years,” says volunteer Susan Bernstein. “Our purpose is to make gifts for charity. Knitted caps are given to Sarasota Memorial Hospital for their “preemies.” Other knitted and crocheted items are given to Temple Emanu-El to distribute to various organizations, including Mothers Helping Mothers and Jewish Family & Children’s Service. The group has also created some items to gift to residents of the Kobernick-Anchin-Benderson campus.” At Kobernick House, the knitters gather on Wednesday afternoons. Recently, Kobernick House residents gathered to work on their projects – a scarf, a blanket, caps and booties. Soft yarns are used, rather than wool, to avoid any problem with allergies. Most of the knitted items will be gifts for recipients

Susan Bernstein and Dubby Uretsky select yarns for a new design

who are not known. The ladies compare yarns, matching colors, textures and patterns – the great yarn debates. Along with a spirited exchange of ideas, stories, advice, strategies and encouragement, there is plenty of laughter. “The majority of our yarn has been donated by individuals in the community and by staff, Susan says. “We always need more yarn. I am always searching for new patterns online. Some days everyone in the room needs help with a project, and other days we all just schmooze while we knit.” Susan has been knitting off and on for about 30 years. She is passionate about creating knitted bags with silk linings, which she displays and sells at fiber art shows. She is just as passionate about her Mitzvah Knitting Groups at Kobernick House and Temple Emanu-El. “It’s so rewarding to know that you are all gathering each week to be together, to be creative and to create something that will Magda Quittner, Cynthia Kendal, Adele Lichtenstein, Susan Bernstein, Dubby Uretsky, Lucille Barach comfort someone in need.”

NO CHILD SHOULD GO WITHOUT HEALTHCARE

Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center needs your help to build a larger facility to provide affordable and accessible, high quality healthcare to children and families in need.

We are so close!

HELP US REACH OUR GOAL! Every dollar raised helps at-risk children receive the care they need.

www.gs-humanservices.org

Phil King, Executive Director / pking@gs-humanservices.org

1750 17th Street, Sarasota FL. 34234 941.365.4545

14A

COMMUNITY FOCUS

December 2013

Supportive services for Holocaust survivors

Beverly Mishkin named Dir. of Jewish Programs at JFCS

By Suzanne Hurwitz, MSW, Jewish Healing Program Coordinator

By Andria Bilan, VP of Development, JFCS

Sponsored by olocaust Survivors can receive services through the Jewish Healing Program of Jewish Family & Children’s Service, which months of the year! Mickey Quittner explains, “We lisis sponsored in part by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and ten to each other so we can remember.” a collaborative partnership with Gulf Hilde Mandel tells why she enjoys the Coast Jewish Family and Community monthly Café Europa meetings: “We Services, which acts as the west coast of gather to have information and updates Florida’s fiduciary agent for the Claims on Claims Conference changes, and the company is very good as well!” Conference. Jan Alston is the JFCS Care ManagEvery month, Holocaust survivors er who coordinates all services for Hofrom all over Sarasota and Manatee counties are invited to gather together locaust survivors. For those who wish to to kibitz and schmooze. Lively discus- speak but in a more intimate setting, Jan sions always take place and friendships is available after each group, thus proare formed. Participants enjoy refresh- viding them a safe place and a listening ments and updates on Claims Confer- ear. In addition to social programs such ence Reparation Information. Café as Café Europa, JFCS assists survivors Europa meetings are held in both Sara- in a variety of support services. For more information, please consota and North Port. At the last meeting, which took tact Jan Alston at 941.366.2224 x172 or place in the Kobernick House library, jalston@jfcs-cares.org. survivors shared memories of the change in seasons. Not one person missed the snow or cold of their earlier years, which should come as no surprise to those of us who moved to Florida from colder climates. One participant told the group about her experience as a young child in PoHolocaust survivors attending the Café Europa Group in October: land and her mem(standing) Helen & Paul Kalfus, Mickey Quittner, Paul Temmer, ory of snow skiing Nellie Markovitz, Alan Kalish, Harlene & Ernie Weiss, Susie Konicov, (seated) Erika Liebert, Amelie Buchler, Hilde Mandel to school for many

Sponsored by s Beverly Mishkin, LCSW begins her chai year of service at Jewish Family & Children’s living facilities Service, she will be assuming the position of Director of Jewish Programs Financial Case Management, providing counseling and emergency under the Jewish Healing Department. financial assistance to Jewish resiSponsored in part by The Jewish Feddents in need eration of Sarasota-Manatee, the Jewish Healing Programs at JFCS pro- Prison Ministry Program for Jewish inmates at the State Correctional vide a spiritual and healing connection Institute in Arcadia and Sarasota to our community through the efforts of County Jail professional staff and a corps of trained The Grace Rosen Magill Jewish volunteers. Healing Lending Library “I am looking forward to bringing my range of experience to the Jewish Supportive Services for Holocaust Survivors, including case manageHealing Department and working with ment, opportunities for socializaits staff to continue providing the qualtion, and assistance with completing ity programs and services to Jewish reparation claim forms and accessclients and the community,” stated Beving services erly. JFCS is dedicated to offering supFor information on Jewish Healport, comfort, hope and healing through Jewish traditions, rituals and wisdom, ing Programs at JFCS, contact Bevand assisting people who are experienc- erly Mishkin at 941.366.2224 x119 or bmishkin@jfcs-cares.org. If you are ining life’s challenges. Jewish Healing Programs offered terested in serving as a volunteer within the Jewish Healing Program, contact at JFCS include: Bikkur Cholim Para-Chaplain visi- Tara Booker at 941.366.2224 x143 or tation to Jewish patients at area tbooker@jfcs-cares.org. hospitals and nursing homes Friendly Visitors, offering a community connection to homebound seniors Bereavement Support Groups Doula Services for those with chronic lifethreatening illnesses Services Religious celebrated in nursing Beverly Mishkin provides help to Bob & Arlene Ferber through the Sarasota Caregiver Counseling & Support Program at JFCS homes and assisted

Now Accepting New Patients.

Celebrations. Adventures. Memories. Joshua M. Newman, M.D.

1212 East Avenue South, Sarasota

Maria V. Tindal, MPAS, PA-C Dermatology Physician Assistant

941.366.0007 www.bestfood.com

The Jewish News is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, committed advertisers and The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

COMMUNITY FOCUS 15A December 2013

December 2013

15A

Rabbi Charles E. Savenor and Ruth F. Ades to be celebrated By Julie Friedman abbi Charles E. Savenor, Director of Kehilla (Congregational) Enrichment, United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, will deliver a provocative keynote address entitled High “NUN” - the First Biblical Cover-Up at the annual Torah Fund Day of Study at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle, Sarasota, on Tuesday, January 7, 2014, starting at 9:30 a.m. Rabbi Savenor will elucidate how the Book of Judges offers vital lessons for us and our children as he discusses one of the most painful and perplexing chapters in our Jewish history. Well known as an energetic, engaging speaker and an author of frequent articles in the Jewish press, Rabbi Savenor served as Executive Director of the Metropolitan New York District of USCJ and led its Family Israel Experience. Rabbi Savenor also served as

the Associate Dean and Director of Admissions of The Rabbinical School of the Jewish Theological Seminary and as the Associate Rabbi of the historic Anshe Emet Synagogue in Chicago. Rabbi Savenor was instrumental in

Rabbi Charles E. Savenor and Ruth F. Ades

programming the momentous USCJ Centennial Celebration: “The Conversation of the Century” in Baltimore in October 2013. Following Rabbi Savenor’s presentation, Ruth F. Ades will be honored as Temple Beth Sholom Sisterhood’s

“Light of Torah.” This award is given to select members of the Women League for Conservative Judaism whose actions reflect genuine engagement in Torah (study), Avodah (service) and Gemillut Hasadim (acts of loving kindness). Ruth’s lifelong engagement with local, national and international Jewish causes as a leader and philanthropist truly describes her as a “Light of Torah.” Ruth will be honored as a champion of Mishpacha – family – the current theme of the Women’s League for Conservative Judaism. Ruth served as President of the New England Branch of WLCJ (Women’s League for Conservative Judaism) and on the WLCJ’s Torah Fund-Residence Halls Cabinet. Ruth and her husband, Alan Ades, carry on their leadership with The Jewish Federation of New Bedford to their southwest Florida sea-

sonal community, taking on active roles in The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee. Ruth participated on the Federation’s Board of Directors for three years, serving on the Kiryat Yam and Overseas Grant Committees. Ruth has also chaired the Federation’s Women’s Division and the Lion of Judah Campaign. Ruth has traveled to Israel over 40 times in support of the peace process and has been honored with JTS Community Leadership and Community Service Awards. Michael’s On East will cater the awards luncheon. Couvert is $36 per person (tables of ten can be held). Reservations must be received by December 20. For more information, please call Torah Fund co-Vice Presidents Betty Levitt at 941.927.4854 or Julie Friedman at 941.484.2790.

New season of Miniversity programs begins this month

Temple Beth El Bradenton begins new outreach program

emple Beth El is expanding its commitment of outreach to the Manatee County area. Our motto is “For all Temple Beth El congregants to fulfill their obligations as Jews to make a difference in the world by helping the needy in our community.” What started as a High Holy Day Food Drive has turned into a yearlong project with a donation barrel from Meals on Wheels that sits in our entrance. For the past few years we have donated a portion of our Casino Night “winnings” to Take Stock in Children, which provides college scholarships to students from the Manatee School system. We have now joined with Turning

his year’s Rabbi Michael B. Eisenstat Miniversity of Judaism includes a range of stimulating classes and programs. Jewish genealogist Mike Karsen’s presentation, “Sex, Murder and Genealogy,” tells what happened when Dora Feldman McDonald, the daughter of German Jewish immigrants and married to one of Chicago’s most powerful political bosses, was acquitted of murder in 1907. Ron McCarty, curator of the Ca d’Zan, recounts how the Feld family acquired the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey circuses in the 1950s. Music maven Carol Kaufman shares the

story of the remarkable Jerome Kern. Baila Miller’s presentation, “Put the Shtetl to the Metal,” examines klezmer’s influence on modern jazz, while Diane Steinbrink revisits the Leo Frank case one hundred years later. The Miniversity features sessions on the future of contemporary Judaism, the book of Job, the dramatic impact of early Sephardic immigration on the course of colonial America, secrets of the Haggadah, films, cooking classes and much more. Most Miniversity programs take place at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. To receive a Miniversity catalogue, call 941.383.3428.

JewS in the military

Our Service To The Nation Sunday, January 19 @ 10:30am Polo Grill, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch Presented in partnership with The Jewish Club at Lakewood Ranch

Only $5 FEATuRING

Colonel Bob Taradash Colonel Taradash has held a wide variety of command leadership positions and led soldiers in combat as a platoon leader, battalion commander and brigade commander.

QuESTIONS?

Contact Len Steinberg @ 941.552.6301 or lsteinberg@jfedsrq.org

Point, an organization that works with the homeless, by collecting personal hygiene items that they, in turn, hand out to the people who come to them for help. Our newest project will be “Dream Center” in Bradenton, which supports minority youth through reading. We will begin cultivating a program where our temple youth can be a liaison with the Dream Center youth in understanding the different religious beliefs and holidays. The Temple Beth El community is extending our reach to help more in our area who need help as we show our young people the true meaning of tikkun olam.

Difference

The Team That Makes The

over 30 years of trusted service to home buyers and sellers specializing in Golf Course Communities & Waterfront properties n transplants from Chicago, Il and Minneapolis, MN n n

Take the first step toward success, call us today.

Shirley & Sherwin Taradash, P.A. RealtoRs®, CRs, aBR

941.730.1989 | 941.448.3301 shirleytaradash@michaelsaunders.com sherwintaradash@michaelsaunders.com

taradash.com 8325 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 | 941.907.9595 | michaelsaunders.com

16A

COMMUNITY FOCUS

December 2013

Temple Emanu-El Social Action Committee spearheading effort to help homeless By Rabbi Elaine Rose Glickman he Social Action Committee of Temple Emanu-El invites the community to join in its recently-launched efforts to aid the homeless of Sarasota-Manatee. Visitors to Temple Emanu-El will notice that a grocery cart has recently been placed in the temple lobby. The cart is not only a visual reminder to bring donations to Sarasota’s needy but also a collection point for items such as towels, new underwear for men and women, white crew socks for men and women, flashlights and batteries, and toiletries. Donations are earmarked for Resurrection House to support its work with Sarasota’s homeless community. “There is a serious problem of the

homeless in our community,” stated Marion Goldsmith, who chairs the Social Action Committee’s subcommittee on homelessness. “The well-established Resurrection House, a day center for the homeless, offers a most comprehensive range of services for men – many of whom are veterans – women and families. The services range from counseling and clothing to food, showers and haircuts.” In partnering with Resurrection House, the Social Action Committee “chose to take a step in the right direction,” explained Social Action Committee chair Emily Tennenbaum, “as [we do] not have the resources to tackle the great depth of problems and needs

IT JUST MAKES CENTS TO ADVERTISE WITH

Robin Leonardi • 941.552.6307 • rleonardi@jfedsrq.org www.TheJewishNews.org

that homeless and impoverished people have. There also has been great interest in the Sarasota community this summer and fall in the needs of the homeless,” she added. Tennenbaum praised the response of Temple Emanu-El and the community to the new initiative. It has been “wonderful,” she said. “We have already emptied the cart several times and delivered the items to Resurrection House.” Donations are gratefully accepted and may be brought to Temple EmanuEl during business hours and Friday evenings. For more information, call Marion Goldsmith at 941.371.5800.

Temple Emanu-El Social Action Committee member Marion Goldsmith and President Michael Richker show the grocery cart used to collect donations for the homeless

Local Jewish educators meet for teacher workshop

n Sunday afternoon, October 6, 37 religious school educators from Sarasota and Manatee counties met to learn and collaborate about Classroom Management. The three-and-a-half-hour workshop was facilitated by James Shaulis, a veteran teacher and administrator who has conducted teacher training for the past nine years. It was a rare opportunity for Jewish teachers to exchange ideas and expand their professional skills. The event commenced with lunch at 12:30 p.m. and continued with an informa-

Sponsored by

tive and interactive presentation by Mr. Shaulis. Teachers received a certificate of completion and a stipend for attending. The event was initiated by Temple Emanu-El Religious School Director of Education Sabrina Silverberg, in cooperation with Temple Beth Sholom Religious School. The event was sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

It’s never too late!

SATURdAy fEBRUARy 1, 2014 @ 7:30 PM TIcKETS: $10 - RSVP IS REQUIREd www.jfEdSRQ.oRg/EVEnTS.ASPx

defiant Reqiuem tells the little-known story of the nazi concentration camp, Terezin. Led by imprisoned conductor Rafael Schächter, the inmates of Terezin fought back...with art and music. Through hunger, disease and slave labor, they hold onto their humanity by staging plays, composing opera and writing to record the horrors around them. now, through soaring concert footage, powerful survivor recollections, cinematic dramatizations and evocative animation, dEfIAnT REQUIEM brings the incredible story of this artistic uprising to life.

TEMPLE BETH ISRAEL

567 BAy ISLES RoAd, LongBoAT KEy, fL

QUESTIonS? conTAcT LEn STEInBERg AT 941.552.6301 oR LSTEInBERg@jfEdSRQ.oRg

etired Ophthalmologist O. David Solomon, M.D. of Manatee County has proved that you are never too old to get your first holein-one. At the age of 81, Dr. Solomon celebrated the first ace of his golfing life at the IMG Academy Golf Club in Bradenton on Sunday, October 13. “I suppose a hole-in-one is every golfer’s ambition,” he said. “But after so many years I was beginning to think it might never happen.” His dream did come true when he reached the par-3, 142-yard 8th hole. Using a five wood, Dr. Solomon thought he over-shot the green but was delighted to find his ball resting in the cup. When he’s not on the links, Dr. Solomon is an active member of Temple Beth Israel of Longboat Key and serves as a vice president of the Temple’s Board of Directors.

Dr. O. David Solomon with his official “Hole-InOne” plaque from IMG Academy Golf Club

COMMUNITY FOCUS 17A December 2013

December 2013

urns Ret

Keyboard Conversations®

People of the booK

Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2014: BACH AND THE ROMANTICS Tuesday, apr. 1, 2014: MISTRESSES AND MASTERPIECES all performanCes begin aT 8:00 pm

17A

Thu., January 16, 2014

PRESEnTED In PARTnERShIP wITh

7:00 pm • Riverview High School Auditorium 1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL Featuring Robert Edsel - author, producer, founder and president of the Monuments Men Foundation.

With Jeffrey Siegel $36 Single Ticket • $90 Concert Series Pass $118 VIP Series Pass (includes seating & reception)

Visit www.jfedsrq.org/keyboard.aspx or call 941.552.6304 for tickets. Presented in PartnershiP With

TICKETS: FREE with minimum gift of $36 (individual) or $72 (family) to the 2014 development efforts of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

Visit www.jfedsrq.org/keyboard.aspx or call 941.552.6304 for tickets. Sponsorship opportunities are available! Call Len Steinberg at 941.552.6301 MagazinE SponSoR

roBert edSel

Matthew lazar

A soon-to-be major motion picture, starring George Clooney Bill Murray & Matt Damon!

Jewish music for the next generation sung by a community festival chorus and orchestra led by world famous choral director, Matthew lazar and the Metropolitan Opera’s Jason Stearns, featuring “The Sacred Service” of ernest Bloch and interdenominational soloists performing selections from popular Broadway musicals.

Get complete information on these events and more!

april 3, 2014

Van Wezel performing arTs Hall www.VanWezel.org

neWspaper sponsor: for THese eVenTs:

www.jfedsrq.org/events.aspx Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 941.371.4546

www.TheJewishfederation.org

18A

COMMUNITY FOCUS

December 2013

100+ participate in Temple Beth Sholom Mitzvah Day

unday, October 20, was a very special day for Temple Beth Sholom. More than 100 people from Paver Religious School, Temple Beth Sholom Schools and the congregation participated in TBS’s Family Mitzvah Day program, organized by Social Action Committee co-chairs Willie and Norm Walter. Students, parents and religious school teachers worked diligently on the beautification of Colonial Oaks Park by pulling weeds and picking up trash. Other students created cards to be sent to the Israel Defense Forces. Another group joined Hazzan Jeffrey Weber and buried religious objects in the Temple Beth Sholom cemetery. The adults were assigned to one of several other activities: sorting food for All Faiths Food Bank, restocking clothing and toys at Mothers Helping Mothers, or making sandwiches for the

Salvation Army, Resurrection House, and the Boys and Girls Club. A mobile blood bank was collecting on site, and non-perishable food was donated to the Jewish Family & Children’s Service pantry. Ongoing programs include making casseroles for the Salvation Army’s homeless, collecting food and babyrelated donations, and working with Family Promise, a local organization

that helps families achieve sustainable self-sufficiency. In November, TBS’s Social Action Committee took a group back to the All Faiths Food Bank to help with the BackPack Kids Program. This committee continues to plan monthly social action activities in the Sarasota community. If you would like more information, please call the Temple Beth Sholom office at 941.955.8121.

Kosher meat available in Sarasota‐Manatee Store Name/Location Costco (Sarasota Square Mall)

Publix (Bay Street and 41) Dr. Josh Green, Evan Green and Hadleigh Schwartz sort clothes at Mothers Helping Mothers

Temple Sinai cares

living or nursing facilities at the Jewish holidays. Temple Sinai makes a point of caring for all its members. Families with newborns are given a gift, and college students receive a Starbucks gift card at the holidays. A cadre of volunteers handwrites milestone birthday greetings, condolence notes as well as congratulation messages for special recognition. Temple Sinai also has a strong social action component in its philosophy. Annually, Mitzvah Day brings together members of all ages and guests to work at tikkun olam, healing the world. Projects are done on campus and at numerous locations around the community. A Food Drive is held at the High Holidays, which brings in thousands of pounds of food for the Mayor’s Feed the Hungry program. Care packages are sent to Jewish service people overseas with items they request as well as treats and holidayrelated goodies. A new initiative this fall is a partnership between Temple Sinai and the YMCA to provide new volunteers to tutor children in the Sarasota schools. Whether it is within the temple, the Sarasota-Manatee area or the world at large, Temple Sinai is walking Temple Sinai’s Caring Committee assemble fresh flower the talk when they say they arrangements for delivery to members in assisted living care. and skilled nursing facilities at the High Holidays

n May 2012, Temple Sinai solidified its commitment to being a Caring Community by creating a new Officer position, VP of Caring. Elana Margolis, Immediate Past co-President, stepped forward to take on this task. “We realized that to truly do a good job of showing our members and the community at large that we care, required more than a small subcommittee.” Elana has a force of more than a dozen temple volunteers who help with the various projects. Traditionally, caring has simply been the clergy visiting the ill and homebound. The current efforts go well beyond that. Home-baked mini-challah breads and stuffed animals, Care Bears, are given to temple members when they are visited by the trained volunteers. Fresh flower arrangements have also been delivered to members in assisted

Award-winning Foot and Ankle Care

WITH YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.

Foot & Ankle Care for the Whole Family • 6 Highly Trained Doctors • Serving Manasota 30+ Years • Same Day Appointments • Friendly Staff / en Español

BACK: Dr. G. Harte, Dr. S. Handley, Dr. P. Baldinger, Dr. R. Berkun FRONT: Dr. C.J. Addison, Dr. R. Katz

Sarasota

941.360.9300 |

Hazzan Jeffrey Weber places prayer books in the ground for burial at the Temple Beth Sholom Cemetery

Cortez Foot & Ankle Specialists CortezFootAndAnkle.com

Bradenton 941.758.8818 |Parrish 941.776.5199

Trader Joe's (Glengary St and 41)

Type of Meat Pastrami Brisket Stuffed Cabbage Beef and Veal Sausage Beef Chopped Liver Chicken Chopped Liver Stuffed Cabbage Ground Beef Brisket Roast Ribeye Roast Chicken and Turkey Parts Chicken Parts Ground Turkey Chuck Steak Stew Meat Brisket Ribeye Steaks

Kosher Symbol

Know of other stores selling Kosher meat in Sarasota‐Manatee? Know of other stores selling Kosher meat in Sarasota-Manatee? Contact Allie Fraidowitz at moosemcalice@gmail.com to add to this list. Contact Chef Maish Fraidowitz at moosemcalice@gmail.com to add to this list.

JEWISH INTEREST 19A December 2013

December 2013

More than just a name and numbers By Erin Painter

y mitzvah project was in- lands in 1932. He told me that boys his spired by the Remember age loved bicycles, short pants, soccer, Me Project, which serves to ice skating and Boy Scouts. This gave help remember children of the Holo- me a sense of what Aron’s life could caust. After some searching, I chose a have been like in Amsterdam before the boy named Aron Fles. My initial search invasion. provided his birth date – December 19, The Netherlands, Mr. Kayton said, 1932 – place of birth – was a peaceful place Amsterdam – and death – where Jews had asAuschwitz, July 29, 1942. similated and felt seThat was it. cure. The Netherlands Clearly, this project had remained neutral needed more research. So in WWI so everyone I pored over Google, Bing, assumed it would be Ancestry.com and many the same this time other websites. Nothing. around. He shared So I decided that a chat with me the memory with my Grandpa might of when that illuhelp, since he also was sion of security was born in 1932 – in Hunshattered. He was in gary. While I was really town with his family Erin Painter glad that Grandpa got out when people began of there before the Nazis invaded, I was lining the streets like they do before a a little bummed when he said he didn’t parade. But instead of floats and marchhave any significant memories from his ing bands, Nazi soldiers and combat boyhood there. vehicles paraded down the main street. Just when I thought I had reached And instead of cheers, people cried. It a dead end, my Grandpa said he had a was a misery parade. friend in town who was in the NetherFortunately for Mr. Kayton, his lands at the same time as Aron Fles. And mother was an American. As a result fortunately for me, he was kind enough of her American passport, family conto grant me an interview. nections and a lot of luck, Mr. Kayton, I had the distinct pleasure of sharing his mother and two sisters were able lunch and chatting with Donald Kayton, to leave the Netherlands and made it who was born in The Hague, the Nether- safely to America. His father and other

family members were not as fortunate. Like young Aron Fles, they were sent to concentration camps where they died. It saddens me that he died – that they all died – unable to live out a full and happy life. I would like to thank Mr. Kayton for taking the time to meet with me.

19A

Take Control of Your Life … HIRE

Providing personal and administrative support to individuals and small businesses. What’s on YOUR list?  De-Cluttering  Organization  Record Keeping  Office Tasks  Household Tasks  Document Creation  Special Projects

Donald Kayton with his dad and sister, The Hague, circa 1937

It helped me imagine what Aron’s life might have been like before the occupation and allowed me to introduce Aron Fles to the congregation at my Bat Mitzvah as an honored guest and not just a name and some numbers. Erin Painter is a 7th grader at Manatee School for the Arts and a member of Temple Beth-El in St. Petersburg.

Gift Certificates Available

Judith A. Merkt

www.yourveryownassistant.com jamerkt@comcast.net Office: 941.379.6302 Cell: 941.928.4325

Some history is worth repeating. Come join our family tree.

ORT educates over 300,000 students around the world every day. To learn more about ORT’s mission to educate and elevate at home and around the globe, please visit us at www.ORTamerica.org. Connect with ORT in the Florida region! Contact Leah Siskin at (561) 997-1073 or lsiskin@ORTamerica.org

ORTamerica.org | info@ORTamerica.org | facebook.com/ORTamerica

20A

JEWISH INTEREST

December 2013

BANG! WHAM! KA-BOOM! Comics are back, but not like you’ve ever seen! “Graphic Details: Confessional Comics by Jewish Women” bares all in Miami Beach

ews have had an extensive contribution to comics, but the focus has been mostly on male artists and their larger-than-life superhero counterparts. This season, learn how women contributed to the history of comics and, in particular, to autobiographical comics, a genre they helped birth, in “Graphic Details: Confessional Comics by Jewish Women.” The exhibit features 18 artists, whose writings and drawings depict their own pain, laughter, shame, triumphs and self-doubts in a way that

whose ages and experiences span four decades. “We are so excited to bring this intimate, unique show to the museum,” said Jo Ann Arnowitz, executive director. “In stark contrast to the superhero exhibit we had in 2007-2008, these artists use their own personal, sometimes tragic, experiences as the material for their work. From relationships to identity crises, these women expose themselves graphically and emotionally to reveal experiences that relate to women of all backgrounds.” While female graphic novelists began ghost writing in the 1930s, and some comic shops employed women scripters openly into the 1940s, their acceptance into the world of graphic novels would take time. Women who were employed before the war were encouraged to leave their jobs and attend to their husbands, many of whom had returned from the battlefield, though their place in the industry was not wholly forgotten. Some women would later be credited for creating female protagonists such as “Jane Martin,” “Glory Forbes” and “Camilla,” and heroine titles, including “Lady Luck,” “Sheena”

taps a collective nerve. The Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU hosts the exhibit, which opened to the public on Tuesday, November 5. What is particularly Jewish and female about how they did it? And, why unveil parts of yourself and your life in comics? These are the questions posed to the artists featured in the exhibit,

Learning is a Lifelong Experience!

and “Senorita Rio.” As the industry experienced a downturn through the 1960s, new talent emerged injecting social awareness and topics like drugs, racism and corporate greed, to make comics more relevant in the early 1970s. This era would birth

the underground comic, or “comix,” a more edgy version of the comics sold by the large publishing houses that dealt with crime, sex, drugs and controversial social issues of the times. A spinoff of the underground comix, autobiographical graphic storytelling, began in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Some of the pioneers of the genre were women and are included in the “Graphic Details” exhibit: Aline Kominsky-Crumb and Diane Noomin, who started “Twisted Sisters;” and Trina Robbins and Sharon Rudahl, who together with Crumb, created “Wimmin’s Comix.” Underground comix are now somewhat more mainstream and celebrated for serving as a model to the larger comic industry, proving an adult audience exists for the graphic novel and eliminates the need for a large publishing house to carry the titles in order for them to be successful. “Graphic Details” celebrates the Jewish woman’s role in the genre, both from the past and in the modern day. Many of the works in the exhibit address extremely personal topics and also reveal the artists’ feelings about Israel, being Jewish and/or a woman in

today’s world, struggles with children, family, intermarriages and other collective experiences. Together, they tell the tale of women everywhere. Artists in the “Graphic Details” exhibition include: Vanessa Davis, Bernice Eisenstein, Sarah Glidden, Miriam Katin, Aline Kominsky-Crumb, Miss Lasko-Gross, Sarah Lazarovic, Miriam Libicki, Sarah Lightman, Diane Noomin, Corinne Pearlman, Trina Robbins, Racheli Rotner, Sharon Rudahl, Laurie Sandell, Ariel Schrag, Lauren Weinstein and Ilana Zeffren. At least one of the artists has a distinctly Florida connection. Sarah Lazarovic was raised in South Florida and has drawn on her experiences in some of her works, including an encounter with another famous Florida comic artist, Syd Hoff. The event would later be the foundation for a tribute to Hoff in Tablet Magazine after he passed away in 2012. Vanessa Davis was born in West Palm Beach, where she graduated from the Dreyfoos School of the Arts (then called Palm Beach County School of the Arts) in 1996. Her mother ran the Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival for many years. “Graphic Details” will be on display at the Jewish Museum of FloridaFIU, 301 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, from November 5 through February 16, 2014. For a complete list of complementary public programs, visit www.jewishmuseum.com. For more information about the museum, call 305.672.5044 or visit Facebook @JewishMuseumofFlorida. “Graphic Details” is curated by Michael Kaminer and Sarah Lightman. Traveling exhibition developed by Yeshiva University Museum curator Zachary Paul Levine. Funding provided by Funding Arts Network and The Forward.

Offering 200 year-round courses in literature, history, film, current affairs, the sciences, writing, philosophy, theater, music appreciation, politics and more.

Flawless Skin

AT ANY AGE

Jan. 6-Feb. 27, 2014 • $75 per course

Call to Learn More...You'll Be Glad You Did Adam S. Greenberg, M.D.

Become part of a community united by intellectual curiosity. Explore, experience and enjoy on the lively campus of USF Sarasota-Manatee!

Board Certified Dermatologist & Dermatologic Surgeon Mohs Surgery & Skin Cancer Specialist

• MOHS Micrographic Surgery • Non-Invasive Skin Cancer Treatment (Superficial Radiotheraphy SRT-100™)

Request a catalogue at: info@lifelonglearningacademy.com

To register, visit: www.lla-sm.org USF Sarasota-Manatee, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

941-359-4296

(941) 488-5300

• Adult & Pediatric Dermatology

1415 East Venice Avenue Venice, FL 34292

• Treatment for Diseases of the Skin • Laser Skin Resurfacing (Active FX-Deep FX) • HydraFacial, Chemical Peels

• Laser treatments for; hair removal, rosacea, sun/age spots, brown spots, psoriasis, vitiligo, acne, vascular lesions, birth marks • Botox, Juvederm XC, Restylane, Perlane • Treatments for leg veins (sclerotherapy), acne treatments • Skin Medica, Obagi, EltaMD, Lattise, ZO® Medical • Mention this ad and receive FREE photo-aging analysis

www.dermatologyinstitute.com • Accepting New Patients and Most Insurances

CS00077763

Registration begins November 25 for our Winter 2014 term

JEWISH INTEREST 21A December 2013

December 2013

21A

Giants of modern Jewish culture By Philip K. Jason, Special to The Jewish News Elie Wiesel: Jewish, Literary, and Moral Perspectives, edited by Steven T. Katz and Alan Rosen. Indiana University Press. 312 pages. $30. ~~~ The Rise of Abraham Cahan, by Seth Lipsky. Schocken. 240 pages. $26.

atz and Rosen’s comprehensive critical survey of Wiesel’s profound and variegated achievement goes beyond previous anthologies, as Wiesel has gone beyond the scope of his early body of work. One of the great merits of the collection is the compactness of the essays. Not one goes on longer than it needs to. In growing a book out of what must Phil Jason have been a powerhouse conference, the editors have not allowed too much growing by way of over-elaboration. The twenty-four essays are grouped into five parts: “Bible and Talmud,” “Hasidism,” “Belle Lettres,” “Testimony” and “Legacies.” Though these groupings are useful courtesies for the reader, they in fact underscore the interrelatedness of Wiesel’s concerns and modes of expression. “Legacies” could just as well have been named “Pedagogy,” and an essay not now placed in that section would fit there just as well as the ones already there. Most of the essays take great pains to establish a critical, historical or theo-

retical context – to create a lens through which to view Wiesel’s contribution. In a few cases, the context dwarfs the commentary that is directly focused on Wiesel. Such is the academic habit. Nonetheless, we come out of this chorus of scholarly voices with a much-enriched understanding of Wiesel’s place in the cultural pantheon of the twentieth century. And not only the Jewish spectrum. Wiesel the student and scholar (of Torah, Talmud, history, philosophy and literature), Wiesel the dreamer and fabulist, Wiesel the voice of conscience through and beyond the Holocaust, Wiesel the mentor, and Wiesel the public figure, all get respectful, revealing and profound attention. There are other Wiesel paradigms as well. Some essays put a particular work under the microscope, while others trace an issue or stance through several. Some measure Wiesel against other writers. There is no getting our minds entirely around this immense figure, but the editors come pretty close. This book is an absolute requirement for all university libraries and Jewish institutions; a pleasure for any educated reader. ~~~ lthough Abraham Cahan strode like a giant across the stages of world Jewry, western journalism, socialist politics, and labor union ascendency through the first half of the twentieth century, author Lipsky makes it quite clear that Cahan was a man first shaped by the circumscribed Jewish life into which he was born in small-town, nineteenth-century Russia.

The story of his unforeseeable remaking in New York, a story drawn in part from Cahan’s own memoirs and the parallels to the title character in his classic immigrant novel The Rise of David Levinsky, is told with an eye at once critical and warmly respectful. Seth Lipsky, formerly editor of the English language edition of The Forward (Forverts), which Cahan brought to prominence in a three-part career filled with both turmoil and amazing success, emphasizes several main aspects of his subject’s achievement. First and foremost, he details Cahan’s career as a self-educated, ambitious journalist who brought what was at first a neighborhood newspaper to worldwide stature and a daily circulation that peaked at 250,000. That career included staff, freelance and guest assignments at many other important newspapers and magazines. For decades, Cahan’s name was everywhere, not only in the Yiddish language press but also in the higher reaches of mainstream journalism. Cahan’s place in the transplantation of European Socialism to American soil as well as his prominence on the international scene as an advocate of socialist government also receives detailed attention, as does his early disappointment in the dictatorial Communist

enterprise against which he became a loud and influential voice. At one time, like many other socialists and free-thinkers, Cahan had little sympathy for the Zionist cause. Lipsky carefully and convincingly traces Cahan’s gradual transition to respect and then support for the Zionist position. Finally, Lipsky makes the case for Cahan as a major literary figure – a man of great sympathetic imagination and skill. This splendid blend of character study and cultural history is a powerful addition to the “Jewish Encounters” series. This review article combines two reviews that appear in the Winter 2013 issue of Jewish Book World. They are reprinted with permission of the Jewish Book Council. Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeritus of English from the United States Naval Academy. He reviews regularly for Florida Weekly, Jewish Book World, Southern Literary Review, and other publications. Please visit Phil’s website at www.philjason.wordpress.com.

“ How lucky am I? After one month of therapy at Benderson, I am happily living independently in Kobernick House.”

For lots of useful stuff, visit www.jfedsrq.org.

Morocco With the girls!

MAY 2014: The sights, sounds, cuisine, culture, art, gardens, Jewish heritage and shopping!

Interested? Please contact Ilene Fox at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org

Ruth, Sandy and David Klein

– Sandy Klein

“Our family has been impressed with the post-stroke rehabilitation therapy our mother received at the Benderson Family Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center,” says David Klein, retired chief executive officer, Excellus Blue Cross/Blue Shield. “We are thrilled that our mother is safe and secure, with help if needed.” Ruth Klein says, “She has many new friends at Kobernick House, and she is joyfully embracing this new chapter in her life.”

Sarasota’s only rental senior community offering a full continuum of care. To learn more or take a tour, call 941-225-8369 anytime.

kobernickanchin.org

1951 North Honore Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34235 INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING • SKILLED NURSING • REHABILITATION Sponsored by Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Housing Council, Inc., Kobernick-Anchin-Benderson operates on a non-discriminatory basis for admissions, services and employment. Assisted Living Facility # 8951 • Skilled Nursing Facility # 130471046

22A

December 2013

Stars of David

By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist Editor’s note: Persons in BOLD CAPS are deemed by Nate Bloom to be Jewish for the purpose of the column. Persons identified as Jewish have at least one Jewish parent and were not raised in a faith other than Judaism – and don’t identify with a faith other than Judaism as an adult. Converts to Judaism, of course, are also identified as Jewish. Boychik, I Gotta Take You Out of the Game When the Detroit Tigers recently named BRAD AUSMUS, 44, their new manager, readers asked me: Who were the other Jewish Major League Baseball managers? Here’s my list, vetted by Jewish Sports Review magazine. All except Phillips were, like Ausmus, a former MLB player: LIPMAN PIKE (1845-1893), the first player of any faith to sign a pro contract, he was a player/ manager of three teams in the 1870s; ANDY COHEN (1904-88), Pittsburgh, one game, 1960; HAROLD “Lefty” PHILLIPS (1919-72), Los Angeles Angels, 1969-71; NORM SHERRY, 82, Los Angeles Angels, 1976-77; and JEFF NEWMAN, 65, 10-game interim manager, Oakland, 1986. The following managers had one Jewish parent, but were raised Christian: the late Lou Boudreau, Larry Rothschild, 59 (four years as skipper of Tampa Bay), and current Oakland manager Bob Melvin, 52. On Paula and Simon You’ve probably heard that singer/ dancer/and former American Idol judge

PAULA ABDUL, 51, visited Israel last month and had a bat mitzvah ceremony. Here are a few things about her background and the trip you may not find in most sources: While she didn’t really speak about her father’s Jewish background before 2006 (he was born in Syria, raised in Brazil, moved to California), she did a radio interview with a Chabad rabbi more than a decade ago in which she said she was a “believing Jew.” And a rabbi presided when she married the Jewish son of the head of “Starter” clothes in 1996. They split up in 1998. Her Jewish mother, LORRAINE, the daughter of Eastern European immigrants, was born and raised in a small town in Canada. Before she left for California, Lorraine dated the late ISRAEL “Izzy” ASPER, a member of the only other Jewish family in town. Asper later became famous as a politician and media mogul. A profile says that his family and Lorraine’s family were “ostracized [in that town] because they had accents, and discriminated against because of religion.” While in Israel, Abdul visited the

It’s the story of a lifetime.

Pass it on.

Stories are transformative episodes in the lives of individuals and groups. These life-changing moments should be passed on to family, friends and the community. John Burr Productions can help. Our expertise will create a lasting legacy. The story that touched your heart will endure as a distinctive high-definition video production. Call today for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.

John Burr Productions

941-378-0021 • johnburrproductions.com

JEWISH INTEREST

Interested in Your Family’s History? Ten years of doing a Jewish celebrities column has turned Nate Bloom (see column at left) into something of an expert on finding basic family history records and articles mentioning a “searched-for” person. During these 10 years, he has put together a small team of “mavens” who aid his research. Most professional family history experts charge at least $1,000 for a full family tree. However, many people just want to get “started” by tracing one particular family branch.

So here’s the deal: Send Nate an email at middleoftheroad1@aol.com, tell him you saw this ad in The Jewish News, and include your phone number (area code, too). Nate will then contact you about doing a “limited” family history for you at a modest cost (no more than $100). No upfront payment. Western Wall and Yad Vashem, and met with President SHIMON PERES, 90. Plans to have her bat mitzvah at the Western Wall were changed, probably to avoid a media circus. Instead, it was held in the city of Safed (also known as Tzfat), a famous center of Jewish mysticism. Presiding over her bat mitzvah was Rabbi EYAL REISS, director of the Center for Tzfat Kabbalah, a joint venture of the Jewish Agency for Israel and the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach, Florida. Its visitor center aims to provide an authentic introduction to Kabbalah to Safed visitors and it maintains an extensive and informative website. Here is one comment Abdul made about her trip: “Beyond being Jewish, I’ve always found myself to be very much in tune with spirituality. I feel very grateful coming to Israel now, where as a woman I know who I am a lot more than even 10 years ago.” Meanwhile, Simon Cowell, 54, Abdul’s former co-judge on American Idol, gave $150,000 to a charity that helps Israel Defense Forces members. He not only gave money, but entertained at a big benefit for the charity held in Los Angeles in late October. Cowell discovered as an adult that his late father was Jewish (his mother isn’t Jewish). This donation fostered almost certainly false stories that he was planning to wed Floridian Lauren Silver-

man, who is carrying his child, in a Jewish ceremony. Whether Silverman is Jewish is still unclear. Kennedy Center Honors The Kennedy Center Honors for excellence in the arts will be given in a gala celebration at the Center on Sunday, December 8. The ceremony, which always includes on-stage tribute performances by other artists, will air on CBS on Sunday, December 29 at 9:00 p.m. (Set your DVR because CBS never repeats this show.) This year’s honorees are opera singer Martina Arroyo; pianist, keyboardist, bandleader and composer Herbie Hancock; pianist, singer and songwriter BILLY JOEL, 64; actress Shirley MacLaine; and musician and songwriter Carlos Santana. Joel, contrary to some early career rumors, is the son of two Jewish parents. His father was a refugee from Nazi Germany. His mother is an American Jew. He describes himself as a secular or cultural Jew. MacLaine isn’t Jewish – but I was touched when she spoke about Jewish women right after the release of In Her Shoes (2005), a comedy/drama in which she played a Jewish grandmother who had retired to Florida. (Rent it if you haven’t seen it.) She said she admired the way most Jewish women stood up for themselves. It wasn’t a tradition among the women she grew up with.

140 kosher characters

twitter.com/jfedsrq

JEWISH INTEREST 23A December 2013

December 2013

23A

The first anti-Nazi trial By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD

quick quiz: When did the first trial take place against Nazis charged with crimes against humanity? If you answered the Nuremberg Trials of 1945-1946, you were, I’m afraid, incorrect. In fact, while there has long been a perception that the Nuremberg Trials were a judgment on the Holocaust owing to the shocking revelations and film footage that came to light as a result, the trials actually focused on what Dr. Paul Bartrop was considered to be an even worse crime: Hitler’s waging of aggressive war on the nations of the world, at a time when everyone was trying to avoid it. Nevertheless, while the Holocaust itself was not on trial at Nuremberg, the horrors revealed served to confirm why the struggle against the Nazis had been too important to lose. By then, however, there had already been a trial of Nazi war criminals. It took place not at the end of the war, but, rather, in December 1943 – exactly 70 years ago this month – and not when victory against the Nazis had been achieved, but when it was far from guaranteed. Moreover, the trial took place in the Soviet Union, hardly a bastion of impartial or dispassionate justice. The background to this can be found in a declaration several weeks earlier, in Moscow. Formally entitled the “Declaration of the Four Nations on Security,” the Moscow Declaration was an Allied statement signed on October 30, 1943, by the governments of Britain, the Soviet Union, China and the U.S. It was a warning to the Nazi government that those responsible for, or participating in, atrocities, massacres or executions would, upon being apprehended, be returned for trial to the countries in which they had committed their crimes. In clear language, it stated that those who participated in perpetrating atrocities would be held accountable for their actions. It was not made specifically in order to punish those responsible for the Holocaust, and did not address directly the Nazi persecution of the Jews. The declaration was, however, highly influential in the development of international war crimes law, as it placed the punishment of crimes committed in wartime as a war aim. Accordingly, it was the “birth certificate” of what became the International Military Tribunal established to try alleged war criminals at Nuremberg. It also set the stage for the first war crimes trials in December 1943, as the Soviet leaders saw in this declaration the possibility of putting on trial Nazis they managed to capture during the war. This did not bode well for the Nazis captured in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kharkov. This city had suffered significantly during World War II. It was first cap-

tured by Nazi forces on October 24, 1941, but was retaken by the Soviets on February 16, 1943. The Nazis then recaptured the city on March 15, 1943, before a final Soviet liberation on August 23, 1943. Seventy percent of the city had been destroyed, and tens of thousands of citizens had been killed. In view of this, the Soviet authorities were not well-disposed to any forms of leniency for captured Nazis. Following the Moscow Declaration, and in a spirit of retribution and overtlyexpressed justice, the Military Tribunal of the 4th Ukrainian Front conducted the first war crimes trial against Nazi defendants on December 15-18, 1943. Three Nazis and a native Ukrainian collaborator were charged with war crimes perpetrated during the German occupation of the area. Considerable publicity was given to the proceedings, which took place in a large theatre with an audience of six thousand Kharkov residents. While the accused were defended by eminent Soviet lawyers, the fact that the forms of Soviet law were followed was not necessarily the best indication that justice would be done or seen to be done. It was, therefore, inevitable that the accused would confess to a series of what were labeled as appalling atrocities which they committed in accordance with orders issued from the highest quarters. Stating that they were the instruments of brutal crimes deliberately planned from above, they blamed their political leaders – Hitler, Himmler, and Alfred Rosenberg – as the “real” war criminals. The tribunal was not convinced, particularly given the all-toorecent Moscow Declaration. While the tribunal had all the hallmarks of a Soviet-style show trial, it also provided a precedent that was later to be invoked at Nuremberg: the principle that where a moral choice was possible, the defense of “following superior orders” was unacceptable. Accordingly, after a trial that began on Wednesday, December 15, 1943, the sentence of death by hanging was handed down on Saturday, December 18. The next day, the sentences were carried out against three members of the Kharkov Gestapo – Hans Rietz, Wilhelm Langfeld, Reinhard Retzlaff – and a Ukrainian collaborator who acted as a driver for the Gestapo, Mikhail Bulanov. All of them were hanged in Kharkov’s public square. The story of the now-forgotten Kharkov Trials, which sought justice for the thousands killed in the Ukraine two years prior to Nuremberg, has recently been brought to light by a journalist from Orlando, Greg Dawson. In a book entitled Judgment Before Nuremberg (2012), he chronicled the full story of the trial at Kharkov, following a trail that took him to the city itself and to some fascinating conclusions about this first attempt at anti-Nazi justice – eighteen months before the end of World War II, and two full years before

Send Letters to the Editor to jewishnews18@gmail.com.

the opening statement by the prosecution at Nuremberg. It is worth recalling that well over a million Jews were murdered by the Nazis in the Soviet Union – “the Holocaust by bullets,” as Fr. Patrick Desbois has described it – prior to the full development of the gas chambers. It was thus more than just symbolic that the first anti-Nazi trial should have taken place, 70 years ago this month, at the scene of these atrocities. It was, it might be suggested, eminently appropriate. Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of History and the Director of the Center for Judaic, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies at Florida Gulf Coast University. He can be reached at pbartrop@fgcu.edu.

Jo Ann Koontz, Esquire, CPA Marina Parkin, CPA Business and Personal Tax Planning and Preparation

1819 Main Street, Suite 910 Sarasota, Florida 34236 941.328.3993 www.koontzandparkin.com

24A

JEWISH INTEREST

December 2013

Jerusalem Post Crossword Puzzle

K’zohar Ha-Ivrit

To life, Le-cha-yim By Dr. Rachel Zohar Dulin

Solution on page 27A

Across 68. More reserved 1. Doesn’t possess 69. Palmach commander Yitzchak 6. Hit 2006 film banned in every Arab country except Lebanon Down 11. Letters in Pretoria politics 1. Letters between G and L 14. “Shall ___ your kiddush cup?” 2. With the stroke of ___ 15. The Israelites were taught by the 3. Boil, during the plagues of Egypt Canaanites how to raise it 4. Mount Sinai Training School for ___ 16. Re-elected Jerusalem Mayor Barkat (founded 1881) 17. New York Congressman who 5. Adultery event represented the Twin Towers 6. “The Altalena,” e.g. 19. Words under a non-Orthodox 7. Like Methuselah chuppah 8. Bug and more 20. Body in Jerusalem 9. Swears 21. What golf pencils lack 10. Abraham’s old man 23. What the king repeatedly says in 11. Holocaust hero Mordechai “The King and I” 12. Kol ___ 24. Fins and ___ (criteria for kosher 13. “Under Crescent and ___: the Jews of the Middle Ages” (Mark R. fish) Cohen book) 25. Papa and Assi in the Talmud 18. “Defiance” author Tec 28. Reaction to Haman on Purim 22. Onion-cooking instruction 32. Red or yellow or green or brown 25. Jewish immigrant musical 33. ADL Director Foxman 26. Broadway Rose-lover 34. Put on ___ (fake it) 27. Torah portion whose name means 36. Ark groupings “And I pleaded” 39. Frank family fried Miep 29. Graphic Taken as a Details whole it 41. Bitter herbs 1. On the sidebar for 30. Abram pretended she was his 42. Leopold Bloom’s land should say Thru February 16, 2014 instead ofsister 31. Bagel alternative 43. Son of Adam and Eve Opens November 5 35. Labor 44. Occasional “New York Times” 2. Need to add on the sponsor line The For37. Margin-of-error phrase contributor Newhouse ward (before Funding Arts Network) 38. One of 120 at the Knesset 45. Judah P. Benjamin served in its 3. I would prefer using the picture girl 40. Movie ___ (placeofforthe Spielberg) cabinet (abbr.) instead of that comic 47. Bright swimmers 46. “M*A*S*H” prop 49. Parsha with several plagues in 48. Schreiber who won a Tony for Egypt “Glengarry Glen Ross” 49. ___ HaBeracha (last Torah portion) 50. Violinist Zimbalist 50. “...and ___ in the wells of silence.” 51. It’s often smelled at Havdalah 52. “Murder by ___”: Neil Simon (Simon and Garfunkel lyric) comedy 53. Battery for a camera or phone 54. Arafat’s successor 55. Level 56. Orthodox teenagers org. 57. Blood ___ (one who accuses Jews 57. “People for the American Way” of kidnapping children at founder Norman Eastertime) 58. Reposed 61. MIA Arad 62. Author, “Women and Jewish Law” 59. “Show Boat” song “Nobody ___ But Me” 64. Braun or Gabor 60. Deuteronomy Torah portion, 65. “Victory ___” (Rodgers score) literally “see” 66. “___ my love...” (Song of Songs 63. Bit of a laugh lyric) 67. “So many ___, so little time”: Mae West

us to watch what we say (Prov 18:21). Not surprisingly, cha-yim appears many times in our Prayer Books. In the High Holidays’ liturgy we find the term sefer ha-cha-yim, ‘the Book of Life,’ a book in which we pray to be inscribed. Also, in the beginning of each holiday or in celebrating any new event, we say the blessing sheh-heh-cheh-ya-nu, thanking God for ‘keeping us alive.’ Moreover, in Modern Hebrew, cha-yim is used in many expressions. Ah-sa chayim – ‘have the time of one’s life’ – and ramat cha-yim – ‘standard of living’ – are but two examples. We cannot leave our short survey without mentioning the joyful toast lecha-yim. Here the preposition le meaning ‘to,’ and cha-yim, ‘life,’ merge in that salutation ‘to life.’ Some say that the custom of saying le-cha-yim before drinking wine developed as a way to avert any harm, which might occur due to intoxication, as happened to Noah after the flood (Gen 9:21). Regardless, saluting life with the exclamation lecha-yim while holding a glass of wine at hand is an old custom recorded in writings from 5th century Israel (Tanchuma Pikuday 2). So, as 2013 ends and 2014 enters, let us raise a glass and sing with hope, ‘to life, to life, le-cha-yim’. I wish all our readers a healthy and happy year. Dr. Rachel Zohar Dulin is a professor of biblical literature at Spertus College in Chicago and an adjunct professor of Hebrew and Bible at New College in Sarasota. She lectures and writes in the field of biblical literature.

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS THEY HELP MAKE THE JEWISH NEWS POSSIBLE

Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU Thru Feb. 16, 2014

By David Benkof, DavidBenkof@gmail.com

e-cha-yim, the year 2014 is about to enter our door. In honor of the New Year let us explore the meaning of the word cha-yim and a few interesting phrases connected to it. Cha-yim, in Hebrew, means ‘life.’ The root of the word is ch.y.h, meaning ‘live’ and is connected to the adjective chai which means ‘lively,’ ‘active’ or ‘raw.’ In the Bible the root ch.y.h is mentioned 768 times in several forms and the noun chaDr. Rachel Dulin yim is mentioned 150 times, forming many key phrases which have stayed with us to this day. In our short space we can mention only a few. For example, most of us are familiar with the famous tree in the midst of the Garden of Eden known as etz hacha-yim, ‘the tree of life’ (Gen 2:9). But some of us may not be aware that Eve’s name in Hebrew, Chavah, is also rooted in cha-yim as the Bible explains, she was em kol chai, ‘the mother of all the living’ (Gen 3:20). Interestingly, the Tree of Life is also mentioned in the biblical Wisdom literature. The writer of Proverbs exclaimed etz cha-yim he, ‘she is a tree of life to those who grasps her’ (Prov 18:20) and, no, it was not said about the Torah, but rather about Wisdom. We also should mention here the poignant advice of the Wisdom Writer ma-vet ve-cha-yim beyad ha-la-shon, literally ‘death and life are in the power of the tongue,’ warning

How w did women contribute to the history of comics comics, and in particular, to autobiographical comics, a genre they helped birth? Graphic Details: Confessional Comics by Jewish Women explores topics from intermarriage to children to views on Israel, through the deeply personal stories of 18 artists in this revealing exhibit. Curated by Michael Kaminer and Sarah Lightman. Traveling exhibition developed by Yeshiva University Museum curator Zachary Paul Levine. Sponsored by The Forward and Funding Arts Network.

From the “King of Citrus” and groves three times the size of Manhattan, to sixth generation dairy farmers, Growers, Grocers & Gefilte Fish spans nearly 200 years of Florida Jews in the food industry, with artifacts, figures and photographs. Thru Oct. 5, 2014

Opening event sponsors: Congregation Beth Jacob and Morris & Rhoda Levitt & Families. Additional support includes: Publix Super Markets Charities; Southern Wine & Spirits.

Bring this ad in for 2 for 1 admission

SMJN

Hans Sachs Poster Collection Thru December 15, 2013

This poster collection, the largest and most significant in the world, was confiscated by Nazis 75 years ago and finally returned to the Sachs family this year. Come see select works from this rare and stunning collection. Peter Sachs and Family in honor of the Legacy of Hans Sachs. Courtesy Guernsey's, New York.

Also see the Museum’s core exhibit, MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Florida, with over 500 artifacts and photographs of unique history. Visit the Orovitz Museum Store for one-of-a-kind gifts and have a snack at Bessie’s Bistro!

301 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach P 305-672-5044 www.jewishmuseum.com

Open daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Except Mondays and Holidays

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

COMMENTARY 25A December 2013

December 2013

What being Jewish means to me

Gold & Silver Buyer David Levene

By David Harris, Executive Director, American Jewish Committee (AJC), October 30, 2013

s recent surveys reveal a disturbingly large number of American Jews – millions, in fact – who feel disconnected from their Jewish identity, allow me to share what being Jewish means to me. To me, being Jewish means entering into a partnership with the Divine for the repair of our broken world (in Hebrew, tikkun olam). To me, being Jewish means recognizing that this is not work to be outsourced to a higher authority or to other people, but my responsibility during my lifetime. To me, being Jewish means affirming life (Deuteronomy: “I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse, therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live”) – and the moral choice each of us has to bring us all a little closer to the prophetic vision of a world at peace and in harmony. To me, being Jewish means championing what is arguably the single most revolutionary concept in the annals of human civilization, introduced to the world by the Jews – monotheism. We are all created in the image of the one God (in Hebrew, b’tzelem elohim). To me, being Jewish means embracing the deep symbolic meaning the rabbis gave to the story of Adam and Eve – that all of us, whatever our race, religion or ethnicity, share the same family tree. No one can claim superiority over anyone else. To me, being Jewish means celebrating the fact that Jews were the original revolutionaries – the first to challenge the status quo and insist on the right to worship differently than the majority, while still being treated equally under the law. Today, we call this pluralism, and it is a bedrock principle of democratic societies. To me, being Jewish means welcoming the pioneering Jewish effort to establish a universal moral code of

conduct, where previously there was none to speak of. It’s not by accident that America’s Founding Fathers chose the words of Leviticus for our nation’s Liberty Bell: “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land and unto all the inhabitants thereof.” To me, being Jewish means seeking to act as if that code of conduct were my daily GPS – to pursue justice, to treat my neighbor as I would wish to be treated, to welcome the stranger in our midst, to be sensitive to the environment, and to seek peace. To me, being Jewish means recognizing that I am an heir and custodian of a civilization that is thousands of years old, and that has within it bountiful riches of theology and faith, philosophy and ethics, music and art, ethnography and history, and so much more – enough for a lifetime of endless exploration and education. To me, being Jewish means appreciating the centrality of discussion and debate about life’s big questions, the delicate balance of tradition and modernity, and the categorical rejection of imposed views or doctrinal thinking. To me, being Jewish means the joy of belonging and community wherever I go; the meaningful and symbol-laden annual holiday cycle; the extraordinary contribution of the Jewish people to advancing the frontiers of world civilization; and the admirable, almost unimaginable, determination to persevere against all odds. To me, being Jewish means having a past to which I am inextricably linked by the generations that preceded me, that prepared their children for their Bar and Bat Mitzvah, that sat at the Passover table and yearned for “Next year in Jerusalem” and the coming of Elijah, that fasted on Yom Kippur as they underwent their moral inventory, and celebrated joyously at Purim in the knowledge that our enemies had been defeated – as well as a future that will

Norman K. Ellman, Ph.D., A.B.P.P. (Board Certified) * Modern & Contemporary Psychoanalyst * Member of the Academy * Member of Psychosomatic Society * 45 Years of Practice in New York, New Jersey & Florida in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy & Psychoanalysis

Announces a Number of Openings for New Patients Bradenton Office: 5550 West 26th St. W (Rt. 41S, right on 56th Ave W) By Appointment: (941) 761-7710

25A

long outlive me, and carry the baton of the Jewish people. To me, being Jewish means living in perpetual mourning for all that has been lost in the Holocaust, the pogroms, the inquisitions, the forced conversions, the exiles, the blood libels, and the other deadly manifestations of anti-Semitism – and, at the same time, living in everlasting gratitude for the gift of life, the blessing of opportunity, and the sacred task set before us of igniting the divine spark within each of us. To me, being Jewish means the exultation of knowing that, in my lifetime, the prayers of millions of Jews over many centuries have finally been answered – the return of the Jewish people to the cradle of our existence, the Land of Israel. To me, being Jewish means affirming the inextricable link between Israel and the Jewish people. This land represents not only the physical, or sovereign, symbol of our peoplehood, but also – whether we choose to live there or not – the highest metaphysical expression of our faith, our prayer and our yearning. To me, being Jewish means knowing that in fighting against anti-Semitism and for Israel’s right to live in peace and security, I am affirming the highest values of tolerance and democracy for all. To me, being Jewish means pride in the immense Jewish contribution to the defense of human dignity and human rights. Not by accident, the Hebrew Bible – from the exodus from Egypt to the very concept of the Promised Land – was a source of inspiration for the American civil rights movement. Strikingly, Jews have never been satisfied with things as they are. If Isaiah and our other prophets returned to earth, they would remind us that, for all that has been achieved, there’s much more work to be done before we can declare success here on earth. And finally, as Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel once said to me, being Jewish means not necessarily seeking to make the world more Jewish, but rather more human. That is the goal animating our people, through good times and bad, from the very beginning of this extraordinary historical journey to the present day. May every Jew feel the sense of happiness, enrichment and inspiration that I’ve had the privilege of experiencing throughout my life! For more information, please visit www.ajc.org.

Paying Instant Cash Any Quantity – Any Condition Gold Jewelry ~ Sterling Flatware ~ Coins Same licensed location for 22+ years

Kamax Corp. 941-536-1000 3434 N. Tamiami Tr., Sarasota

OPTICAL SERVICES INC. WHAT A DIFFERENCE THE FIT MAKES

W. V. SAM JONES PRESIDENT

1901 SOUTH OSPREY AVE. (Corner Hillview) SARASOTA, FL 34239

366-7866

366-7876

SENIOR WISHES TO PURCHASE Precious metals Time pieces Coins Jewelry Antiques

Please call Marc at 941.321.0707

What do you think? The Jewish News wants to know! Send an email to jewishnews18@gmail.com. Letters Policy Letters must include the author’s name, full address and daytime phone. Letters should be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length and/or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of The Jewish News of Sarasota-Manatee or its advertisers. We cannot acknowledge or publish every letter received.

26A

COMMENTARY

December 2013

The Menurkey: Fun holiday fowl play From the Bimah Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz, Temple Beth Israel

s you are no doubt aware, the first night of Hanukkah falls on Thanksgiving, a convergence that has only happened once before, in 1888, and won’t occur again, I’m told, for more than 75,000 years. The calendrical phenomenon has spawned a range of commemorative greeting cards, posters, t-shirts and menus. The “Thanksgivukkah” dinner at Kutsher’s Tribeca in New York City will feature sweet potato latkes, challah-chestnut stuffing, pumpkin knishes,

cranberry sufganiyot, and a cornucopia overflowing with chocolate gelt. Restaurant personnel will probably greet dinners with an enthusiastic “Gobble Tov.” When this extraordinary holiday overlap first came to my attention a few months ago, I consulted a local artist about creating a unique Hanukkiahturkey amalgam to honor the event. However, a short time later, I learned about a nine-year-old New Yorker named Asher Weintraub. Weintraub’s website, www.menur key.com, features a likeable Hanukkiah-turkey combination he conceived. I realized there was no need to create my own and just purchased one of his. So I now own a Weintraub Menurkey. Though the price was a little steep, I’m pleased that Asher plans to donate a portion of the proceeds to charity, and appreciate that getting a project like this off the ground includes quite a number of start-up costs. Asher thought a Hanukkiah-turkey would be popular since Hanukkah and Thanksgiving were associated with giv-

ing thanks. So too, the Maccabees and Pilgrims shared similar experiences and aims. They both were religiously persecuted and sought to consecrate their liberation from tyranny. But Hanukkah intersecting with Thanksgiving may carry even more significance than we realize. Some historians contend that the early Pilgrims’ Thanksgiving observance was rooted in the Jewish harvest festival of Sukkot. Often referring to themselves as “new Israel,” they surely knew that the holiday commemorated Israel’s deliverance from Egyptian oppression. Furthermore, Hanukkah may, in actuality, constitute a delayed celebration of Sukkot. The Second Book of Maccabees indicates that, in view of the desecration of the Jerusalem Temple at the hands of the Syrian-Greeks, “You must observe a Feast of Tabernacles in the Hebrew month of Kislev (two months later).” Sukkot in Kislev, rather than the month of Tishri? The explanation is that during the Maccabean struggle (167

BCE), Sukkot could not be celebrated at the normal time and therefore was postponed until the fighting ceased. This Second Sukkot may have been suggested by a law in the Torah stipulating that if a person is prevented from celebrating Pesach, a Second Passover was to be kept a month later. Curiously, there are several other aspects of Hanukkah that resemble Sukkot. Hanukkah, like Sukkot, is eight days. Both celebrate light. On Sukkot, Jerusalem was lit up with torches in conjunction with the festival’s prominent water-drawing ceremony. There is also an emphasis on “publicizing the miracle” of each holiday. Additionally, not only did King Solomon dedicate the First Temple on Sukkot but the Second Temple was also dedicated during the festival. Hanukkah, which actually means “dedication,” also commemorates the rededication of the Temple. This seeming Sukkot/Thanksgiving/Hanukkah connection makes this year’s observance all the more fascinating. Gobble Tov to all.

When the white smoke was announced, I eagerly tuned in online. The pageantry was amazing. I was caught up in the excitement. Who would emerge on the balcony as pope? There is nothing like this in Judaism. We have no one leader that unites world Jewry. And we have nothing that approaches the grandeur of that ceremony. We used to. In biblical times, we had a caste of priests above the populace. The High Priest was the most holy of them all. As with the Catholics today, these ancient priests served as intermediaries between the people and God. The people brought their animals to the priests, and the priests sacrificed them to God. A mere Israelite would not dare to offer up a sacrifice directly. This changed in Judaism with the destruction of the Temple and the rise

of the Rabbis. We now worship God directly. When we sin, we confess directly to God. God alone offers absolution to us. We do not go through any intermediary as the Catholics do now. So I was envious on the day of the new pope. We don’t have any moment so grand and exciting. But, alas, my envy was short-lived. For though I share a special kinship with my Catholic friends, I cannot be one of them. I do not believe in the sanctity of the pope. I do not agree with the positions of the church on issues such as gender equality. It is not my way. I like the Jewish way. No one is above anyone else. We are all equal under God. We all have a direct connection to God. So the pope is not for me. But I am happy for my Catholic friends.

Our bond with Catholics From the Bimah Rabbi Brenner Glickman Temple Emanu-El

atholics and Jews share a special bond that no one else can understand. It is not just because we occupy all nine seats on the Supreme Court, though that is awesome. If the Supreme Court were representational, there would be two Catholics instead of six, and there would be no Jews. I don’t think that this fact is especially meaningful, but it is so deliciously interesting that I just have to note it. I believe that the bond between us is based primarily on our shared experience as immigrants. Catholics and Jews came in large numbers to America at the turn of the century. We were regarded as outsiders by the Protestant majority. Still, we forged a home here and succeeded. We assimilated into American life, but we kept our particular ethnicity. Catholics and Jews tend to be expressive emotionally and strong with family bonds. We tend to have boisterous meals. We also talk with our hands. It is this cultural connection that explains a strange phenomenon that I experienced in college. I attended a classic WASPy school in New England. I spent most of my time hanging out with a group of friends that remained close throughout. There were fifteen in the group, and all but one was Catho-

lic or Jewish. For some reason, we just felt most comfortable together. I came to understand why when I visited my friend Sandro at his parents’ home for dinner. They lived in an entirely Italian section of Astoria in Queens, New York. His mother served course after course of food until we were overstuffed. Then his father peeled fruits and put them on my plate. I felt so naturally at home. There is something else that binds us as well. For Catholics and Jews, our religion is more than simply a faith and a practice. It is also fundamentally an identity. That is special to us. Our religion is who we are, whether we like it or not. You will hear someone say, “I am a Jew, but I don’t believe in the theology or go to synagogue.” That makes sense to us. A Jew is still a Jew, even if they don’t practice. It is similar with Catholics. You will hear someone say, “I am Catholic, but I don’t believe in the doctrines and I don’t go to church.” That makes sense for a Catholic. It is their identity, whether they agree with the Vatican or not. To a large extent, Protestants cannot really understand this. You would never hear someone say, “I am a Baptist, but I don’t believe in Jesus or go to church.” One might say that “I was a Baptist” or “I was raised a Baptist,” but it is hard to imagine someone saying “I am a Baptist” if they don’t believe and do not practice. It is different with Catholics and with Jews. It is our identity. It is who we are. Of course, the differences between Catholicism and Judaism are obvious. This came to mind immediately with the selection of the new pope a few months ago. The whole process was captivating – the cardinals in their bright red robes and the black smoke. I must confess; I was completely caught up in it.

Opinions and letters printed in The Jewish News of Sarasota-Manatee do not necessarily reflect those of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers.

FOCUS ON YOUTH 27A December 2013

December 2013

27A

The benefits of volunteering Education Corner

By Laura Freedman

his school year, I have begun to see an exciting new trend. More parents of the children in our preschool are volunteering. They are signing up for committees. They are asking the teachers what they can do to help. They are dropping by my office to say they would like to lend a helping hand. Here’s hoping it is contagious and long lasting. It seems natural for parents to be enthusiastic at the start of a fresh new school year, but in today’s busy world it is not always a given. Pro-

spective volunteers need to know what the benefits are to others, as well as, to themselves. What does the experience of volunteering do for others? Children very often learn by example. Parents who volunteer are serving as role models for their children who observe adults helping and giving of their time. Whether it is in the school office or in the classroom or bringing projects home, it is noticed by young children that mom and/or dad are actively involved in the school setting. The children infer that it is important. “If they help and do for others, then I can, too.” My daughter watched as I was a very active participant in her schools from preschool to elementary to middle to high school; in her religious School classes and youth groups, etc. I served

Jerusalem Post Crossword Puzzle Solution to puzzle on page 24A

Lights In Bloom

on many committees and on the PTA and on Advisory Boards. Over the years, she became an active volunteer involved in many groups and committees, helping where needed. Away at college now and out of my daily monitoring, she still dedicates much of her time as a volunteer for multiple causes. Not only are the children observing, the other families notice, as well. Positive energy infects people in a positive way. When volunteers are busy and actively engaged, that emotion rapidly spreads. Others consider joining the effort and contributing. Becoming involved becomes the “thing to do.” Everyone is invested in the school/ organization, and it truly becomes a community of families. Making each volunteering effort a positive and fulfilling experience is important to maintaining a strong group of enthusiastic helpers. Volunteering in a Jewish preschool invites involvement and, hopefully, affiliation in the synagogue, too. People become attuned to the temple calendar and its events. They feel invested in the institution and the work and the efforts that are done there. This early start can become a gateway or even a bridge to committee work and multi-generational cooperation toward a common goal. Gift Membership programs cultivate this idea of current members encouraging other families to become involved in committees and the groups within

the temple structure. They build bonds, friendships and connections that solidify affiliation. Taking this scenario another step, volunteering can be a leap into social action; finding ways to be a part of the greater community efforts. Volunteers dedicate themselves to aiding causes that can stretch beyond the immediate or local neighborhood. Their outreach can lead to dedication to the global community. National organizations and international organizations call for volunteers to help improve living conditions or provide opportunities for those who may not be able to without this extra help. What does the experience of volunteering do for the volunteers? Playing an active role in preschool volunteer committees naturally encourages social connections with the committee members. Bonds begin to build when goals are shared. Common interests and motivations emerge. These relationships that are nurtured while the children are young become long-lasting connections between the children, parents, families and school communities. Encouraging, even promoting, volunteering on a small scale with “baby steps” in a preschool setting could be the key to developing lifelong patterns of volunteerism, activism and involvement on a greater scale. Laura Freedman is the Director of Early Childhood Education at Temple Sinai.

Lights In Bloom December 20-23, 26-30 • Nightly 6:00 ~ 9:00pm

NEW TO FEDERATION? NEW TO THE AREA?

• Meet & connect with other Jewish folks in the community

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8, 2014 • 5:00-6:30PM

Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Blvd, Sarasota

• Learn about upcoming programs & events • Enjoy wine and appetizers

NEWCOMERS RECEPTION

Add sparkle to the holiday season

during the annual Lights in Bloom celebration! Explore Selby Gardens and view life-size garden-themed holiday lights presented by Lights in Bloom creator, Bob McComb. Enjoy festive live music while dining on grilled entrees, delicious kids’ Merry Meals, and delightful holiday snacks. Children of all ages will love exploring the rainforest garden aglow with holiday lights. Kid-friendly activities, such as creating fun crafts, will be available in the Kids’ Corner. Additionally, guests will marvel at the festive décor in the Museum of Botany & the Arts. The Christy Payne Mansion will be transformed into a tropical wonderland for the holidays with whimsical, tropical décor and greenery with pizazz. Tickets, which will include admission to the Museum, are available December 2, 2013 online or at the Welcome Center. Sponsored In Part By

For more information or to RSVP, contact Ilene Fox at ifox@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2111

TheJewishFederation.org

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 811 South Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236 941-366-5731 • www.selby.org

28A

FOCUS ON YOUTH

December 2013

My first USY convention

Challaween treats

By Gabriella Hazan

By Jess Zimmerman, Chalutzim/Kadima Youth Advisor

recently attended my first USY (United Synagogue Youth) Mercaz sub-regional convention, in Melbourne, Florida. Although a friend had gone to a convention last year, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was concerned that it might be boring because I had heard that there were services multiple times a day. The convention turned out to be a wonderful surprise. I loved how small and intimate it was, especially as it was my first one, so I was able to get to know everyone. Five of us from Sarasota attended and there were about 60 kids in all from the Central and North Florida Region. The services turned out not to be boring and were actually pretty fun. In one, they gave us different candies that represented the prayers. During the convention there were many seminars at which we separated into small groups and discussed Israeli and Jewish issues. One of the discussions concerned whether Orthodox (Haredi) men in Israel should have to join the army. Most of our group came to the consensus that although the men shouldn’t be forced to join the army, they should help in other ways. However, there were still a few members of our group who felt strongly that by living in Israel the Haredim need to follow the laws of the country. It was exciting

n Sunday, October 13, Chalutzim hosted its second annual Challaween at Temple Beth Sholom. The theme of the event was Halloween, but instead of taking candy from houses, we gave candy-filled challah to the children at Everyday Blessings, a shelter for children who have been abused, neglected or abandoned. Challaween was a part of Volunteer Community Connections’ Make A Difference Day. All the children and staff who participated in the event will receive t-shirts as a thankyou for making a difference. There were eight children in grades 2-5 who participated in Challaween. The children decorated challah with M&Ms and Halloween sprinkles. While

USY members Gabriella Hazan, Allison Davis, Erica Lester, Noah Blumenthal, Sydney Hanan, and Chalutzim/Kadima Youth Advisor Jess Zimmerman at the fall sub-regional convention

to see how passionate about being Jewish people my age could become. The convention helped me feel like I was truly starting my USY adventure and I look forward to the activities to come. It was great being surrounded by Jewish people my age. At the start of the convention we had a mixer where we played games to learn everyone’s name and to break the ice. I met people from other parts of Florida whom I hope to keep in touch with during the year. I look forward to seeing them and meeting others when I go to the next convention. For more information about USY or other youth groups at Temple Beth Sholom, please contact Amber Ikeman at aikeman@templebethsholomfl.org.

MASA ISrAel TrAvel ScholArShIp The Federation will offer scholarships to applicants who have been accepted to a MASA program! Scholarships are first come, first serve. (Up to $2,000 to cover travel to and from Israel only.) Visit www.TheJewishFederation.org.

Klingenstein Jewish Center, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 Amber Ikeman, Youth Engagement Coordinator 941.343.2106 • aikeman@jfedsrq.org

Fe d

er at

Questions? Contact Amber Ikeman at 941.343.2106 or aikeman@jfedsrq.org

the challah was baking, we told Jewish spooky stories, such as the story of the Golem of Prague. The children then created their own golems with various arts and crafts items. When the challah was finished baking, we walked over to the Everyday Blessings facility across the street from TBS. All of the children sat together, shared challah and cupcakes (provided by TBS), and, most importantly, interacted with new friends. For more information about Chalutzim and Kadima, youth groups for students in grades 2-8, contact me at Jessica.zimmerman12@ncf.edu.

Temple Emanu-El kids learn about dental health

ressing up as teeth, flossing gi- exciting because SmileWorks’ boardgantic teeth, and brushing the certified pediatric dentist Dr. Manav teeth of a dragon may sound Malik, known to his small patients as like a child’s imaginings – but it all Dr. M&M, is an alumnus of Temple really happened as the students of Emanu-El Early Learning Center! Temple Emanu-El Early Learning Helping students learn about dental Center learned about dental health on hygiene is part of Temple Emanu-El October 24. Early Learning Center’s commitment Welcoming guests from Smile- to providing a healthy, nurturing enWorks Kids Dentistry, the preschoolers vironment – an environment that also “had the exciting opportunity to experi- includes a renovated playground, new ence an interactive lesson from a won- butterfly garden, a vegetable garden, derful team,” instructor Tammy Libera and new “green” initiatives. stated. “Dental hygienists Brandy and Myra spoke to the children about good and bad food choices and the effects of good oral hygiene.” The students even took starring roles in the presentation, Libera added. “Seven children were dressed up as teeth, and two other children were the gums. The others then got a chance to brush and floss the ‘teeth and Temple Emanu-El Early Learning Center student Jacob Menard gums.’” brushes the dragon’s teeth as SmileWorks Kids Dentistry After learning about hygienist Brandy looks on proper brushing techniques, “I think this was a wonderful opporevery child had the chance to practice their new skills by brushing the teeth of tunity for the children,” Libera concluded. “The sooner children learn about a smiling stuffed dragon. The visit by SmileWorks Kids Den- good oral hygiene and start to take care tistry has become a much-anticipated of their teeth, the healthier their mouths annual event – one made all the more will stay throughout their lives!”

S.K.I.P

F O R M O R E I N F O CO N TAC T: AMBER IKEMAN 941.343.2106 O R A I K E M A N @ J F E D S R Q.O R G

Send-A-Kid-to-Israel Program

lin

w. Th e

ish

th by 1 7 er r st e gi mb Re ce De 013 2

Alexander Muss High School in Israel is the only pluralist, non-denominational, coeducational English language study abroad program in Israel for high school students. The Jewish Federation will provide subsidy to teens for the opportunity to spend part of the academic school year or summer in Israel during the sophomore, junior or senior year on a fully accredited academic and fun experience, earning high school and college credit. These scholarship opportunities are generously sponsored by The Friedman Family.

Sponsored by

Apply oNlINE: TheJewishFederation.org The SKIP program is funded in large part by the Betty and Herb Schiff Send-a-Kid-to-Israel Fund.

FOCUS ON YOUTH 29A December 2013

December 2013

29A

TBS Schools religion program encompasses Jewish culture and world religions

emple Beth Sholom Schools offers Judaic Studies and World Religion for all grade levels. Hazzan Jeffrey Weber met with TBSS kindergarteners to show them how the Torah is dressed. He also let the students have a close-up view of the Torah. The second- and third-grade students recently learned about the special ornaments that adorn a Torah. They were very fortunate to have Hazzan Weber show each article, then explain its significance. Middle school students’ lessons are more comprehensive. TBSS sixth graders, Rebecca, Kayla and Jenny, are excited to present their play for the Torah portion – “Noach,” the story of Noah’s Ark – during the weekly Shabbat program.

The exciting World Religion course this year for middle schoolers is led by Heidi Rodeheaver. To get students interested in the subject matter, she focuses on projects with a creative approach. This week the seventh-eighth

grade class completed a unit on Taoism. The students made trading cards with the picture or symbol of their chosen Immortal (God) on the front with their stats and accomplishments on the back – similar to a baseball trading card.

Second- and third-grade students learned about the special ornaments that adorn a Torah

Hazzan Jeffrey Weber met with TBSS kindergarteners and let the students have a close-up view of the Torah

TBSS sixth-graders Rebecca, Kayla and Jenny

Example of the trading cards made for the TBSS World Religion Class

Community tEEn

AROUND THE WORLD

IN 12 HOURS!

WHEN:

All of Sarasota’s youth groups will put on a community-wide joint event! Whether you’re in USY, NFTY, BBYO, or are looking to get involved, this is an event not to be missed! Highlights to look forward to: Havdalah, dinner, games, activities, bagel breakfast, meeting new friends, and fun! Bring your own sleeping bag and pillow.

January 11, 2014 @ 6:30PM thru January 12, 2014 @ 9:00AM

WHERE: Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 941.371.4546 • TheJewishFederation.org For more information, contact Amber Ikeman at 941.343.2106 or aikeman@jfedsrq.org.

FREE! RSVP at www.jfedsrq.org/events.aspx THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.

March

OF THE LIVING

Panim el Panim The Federation will be subsidizing a trip to Washington, D.C for students in 10th, 11th or 12th grade to participate in the Panim el Panim Seminar on March 23-25, 2014. Learn how to make a difference and advocate for the issues most important to you while exploring our nation’s capital. The PANIM Institute of BBYO is creating a movement of young activists ready to take on the challenges facing the Jewish people, America and the world.

Let your voice be heard!

Application deadline: December 1, 2013. For more information, contact Amber Ikeman at 941.343.2106 or aikeman@jfedsrq.org

The Strength OF A PeOPLe. The Power OF COMMuNITY. Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 941.371.4546 • TheJewishFederation.org

An unforgettable and life-changing experience! For 11th & 12th Grade Students Selected teens will spend a week in Poland and march from Auschwitz to Birkenau with thousands of fellow Jews from around the world on Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day). The particpants will then spend a week in Israel on Yom Hazikaron (Israel Memorial Day) and Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) seeing the incredible sites and sounds of our homeland.

Get complete information under the Teen Section at TheJewishFederation.org Questions? Contact Orna Nissan at 941.371.4546 ext. 104 or onissan@jfedsrq.org

April 24 - MAy 8, 2014

30A

FOCUS ON YOUTH

December 2013

Trike-A-Thon raises funds and awareness

f o p i r t e h t . . . “ a lifetime.”

Application deadline:

December 1st

Complete information, eligibility requirements & appliCation:

www.TheJewishFederation.org

Questions? Contact Amber Ikeman at 941.343.2106 or aikeman@jfedsrq.org Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232

www.TheJewishFederation.org

he Gan Preschool at Temple Sinai recently held its 5th annual Trike-A-Thon to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Almost 50 students participated in one way or another in this event, which is one of the two significant mitzvah projects done each year at the Gan. The youngest class was the cheering section and others were on trikes, and some even brought their bikes from home. The students rode a track that circled inside the atrium of the building that was decorated like a speedway. Moms, dads and even some grandparents were there to volunteer and cheer on their little ones. It was a successful fundraising effort, raising over $1,400, and also a teaching opportunity for the students. Laura Freedman, Director of Early Childhood Education, explained to the students that they were riding for children who could not ride and that the money they raised would

help doctors heal children. The students ranged in age from eighteen months to pre-K but her age-appropriate explanation to each age group included the idea that they were performing a mitzvah. Learning the basics of helmet and bike safety was also a component of the program. Ride slowly, don’t ride in any street, and careful at driveways was the mantra of the morning. When asked how fast they should ride, one fouryear-old girl replied “medium,” which seemed particularly wise to the nearby adults. Each student received a sticker for participating and a Popsicle treat to cap off a fun and worthwhile morning.

The Gan Tziporium (Birds) class cheers on the riders at the Gan Trike-A-Thon

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

Karp Family Foundation Follow us at facebook.com/pjlibraryofsarasota Visit the Federation website to sign up!

TheJewishFederation.org Questions?

Contact Amber Ikeman 941.343.2106 or aikeman@jfedsrq.org

Cara Sheyner zooms on the speedway for the Gan Trike-A-Thon at Temple Sinai

Ynes Juravin makes a fashion statement

MeMories last Forever

SHA LOM BA BY Families who are expecting or have recently celebrated the arrival of a baby can receive a Complimentary Gift Basket, which includes special baby items and a helpful resource guide for our Jewish community.

TheJewishFederation.org

tact:

Con

s? tion

s Que

mev

.org

dsrq

jfe rist@

19 o

xt. 1 46 e

.45

.371

941

Mar

ris Eve

Jewish Camp inCentive Grants

Apply by Jan. 27, 2014 by visiting www.theJewishFederation.org. The Federation, in partnership with local philanthropists, provides incentive grants for Jewish children planning to attend not-for-profit Jewish overnight camps.

Contact Sarah Wertheimer at 941.552.6308 or swertheimer@jfedsrq.org The Klingenstein Jewish Center, 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota FL 34232

941.371.4546 • www.TheJewishFederation.org

LIFE 31A CYCLE

December 2013

ANNIVERSARIES th

65 Herb & Ilse Stutman Temple Emanu-El 60th Julius & Betty Loeser Temple Beth Sholom 60th Norman & Eldene Mohl Temple Sinai 55th David & Theodora Green Temple Beth Sholom 45th George & Felice Hedge Temple Emanu-El

40 James and Toniet Wolfson Temple Sinai 30th Dr. Leonard & Jane Kritzer Temple Emanu-El 10th Robert & Karen Galkoff Temple Beth Sholom 5th Joel Hyman & Andrea Rolsky Temple Sinai

Sarasota-Manatee Chevra Kadisha TAHARA admin 941.224.0778 men 941.377.4647 women 941.921.4740

B’NAI MITZVAH Jakob Dubin, son of Meryl & Rory, December 7, Temple Beth Sholom Jacob Jones, son of John & Robyn, December 7, Temple Sinai Julian Read, son of Michele & Loren, December 7, Temple Beth Sholom Mariama Rothstein, daughter of Rebecca, December 13, Chabad of Sarasota Kate Sorgen, daughter of Eugenie & Jay, December 14, Temple Emanu-El

Jacob Jones

December 2013

Mariama Rothstein

Kate Sorgen

IN MEMORIAM

Jewel A. Ash, 76, of Sarasota, Oct. 2 Shari G. Elliott, 52, of Bradenton, formerly of New Jersey, Oct. 17 Leila Gompertz, 94, of Sarasota, Oct. 5 Paul David Grossberg, 82, of Sarasota, formerly of Cleveland, OH, and Atlanta, GA, Sep. 28 Sidney D. Kobernick, MD, PhD, 94 of Sarasota, Oct. 6 Florence Chaikin Levitt, 99, of Sarasota, Oct. 11 Robert R. Mazer, 90, of Longboat Key and Chicago, IL, Oct. 18 Lois Winett Katz Rose Miles, 83, of Sarasota, Oct. 22 Jerry A. Roucher, 76, of Sarasota, Oct. 21 Alan F. Stone, 84, of Longboat Key and Chicago, IL, Oct. 25 Warren Leonard Weil, 88, of Sarasota, Aug. 12

It has been our honor to serve Sarasota’s Jewish Community for over 10 years

Palms-Robarts Funeral Home & Memorial Park

1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237

31A

TOALE BROTHERS

Providing dedicated Jewish facilities and traditional Jewish Burials to Sarasota & Manatee

for over 60 years.

• Family Owned • Funeral Homes • Crematory

Please submit your life cycle events (births, B’nai Mitzvah, anniversaries) to jewishnews18@ gmail.com. Photos are appreciated; please email as JPGs at 300dpi.

• Pre-Arrangement Center

Advertise in The Jewish News and reach an established and powerful demographic of over 9,000 homes in Sarasota-Manatee. Call Robin Leonardi at 941.552.6307

Private Family Estates available

Sarasota 955-4171 Bradenton 746-6191 www.toalebrothers.com

“A Place of Natural Beauty” Honoring all traditions in the Jewish Community The Garden of Abraham offering, Upright Monuments, Flat Markers & Benches

David L. Stasney Pre-Need Specialist “serving the Jewish Community Since 1998”

Skyway Memorial Gardens 5200 US Hwy 19 North Palmetto, FL 34221 (941) 722-4543 www.skywaymemorial.com

170 Honore Avenue, Sarasota FL 34232

(941) 371-4962

Sarasota’s first and only Funeral Home/Cemetery Combination

Orthodox – Conservative – Reform & Non-Affliated Jewish Gardens –Tahara Room – Unveilings As your local Dignity Provider we offer many benefits to our Jewish families.

www.PalmsMemorial.com

thinking of selling or trading-in that

car, boat, or rV?

donate

it!

• Our online form makes it easy. • Receive tax benefits. • Feel good about supporting a worthwhile cause! A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-435-7352 WITHIN THE STATE. OUR REGISTRATION NUMBER IS SC-00449. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.

Visit www.jfedsrq.org

on March 2-4, 2014,

Join over 6,000 activists for the pro-israel community’s largest annual gathering in Washington, D.C! Federation will be subsidizing up to 6 students!

if you are a high school or college student, a leader, and passionate about israel advocacy, apply today at TheJewishFederation.org. application Deadline: December 1, 2013 for more information, contact amber ikeman at 941.343.2106 or aikeman@jfedsrq.org

The Strength of a PeoPle. The Power of CommuniTy. Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 941.371.4546 • TheJewishFederation.org

a T o s ara

f s o d aba

13 0 2 • 5774

h a k u n a

f o e T Tas

h C

ry! o T s i h ion in

i w h g i h firsT

br e l e C h a Chanuk

y l i M a f a d n e l l a w s u o M a f ld

r o w The

n u s 1

C e d PM 5 2 1

n o i t a c w lo

a T o s a r a s s Ne

d n u o r g r i a f

ainting P e c a f sters • enjoy: r • balloon Twi ra lke ner stilt wame: kiddie Cor rael orChesT first Ti kol yis f o c i s mu s The live er entertainer and oth inG: alented artists p p o h s Gift eations by t e. y A d i l o h ind cr far and wid k a f o one ans from

ever: e m i t show t a m firs a l l ational

• intern ne show oli • Tramp ce show an • biera d how by ens d r a s g l a e i l • spec Ta Jung

and arti

n o T 3 T e ian test th g ow slide limits sn

saraso

r food f koshe

from:

bi’s a d n a r Veg • tions • t A del s a e on cious Crea s ’ l e a h c • Mi son’s • deli • Matti on o

lecti e s s u o ici

ar! l u c a t ng : i c e k p r S a o P t r s ponsor • free m Supe proud s

Fro

n o i s s i e adM isit

fre

re in for mo

tion formA

com . h a k Chanu

of 770 e T s a T a 25.0 : 941.9 or cAll

ice

ract ily P Fam iates c asso

Celebrating Jewish Life in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Israel and the World FEDERATION NEWS

Serving our community since 1971!

Published by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee www.jfedsrq.org

December 2013 - Kislev/Teveth 5774

Volume 43, Number 12

Jewish Happenings Chanukah begins Wednesday night, November 27 nov 29 - dec 24 ORT Gift Wrap ORT gift wrappers at both Westfield malls in Sarasota (Westfield Southgate at 3501 S. Tamiami Trail and Westfield Sarasota Square at 8201 S. Tamiami Trail) will wrap gifts during the holiday season to raise money for ORT schools around the world. Gift Wrap booths are open during most mall hours. Donations appreciated. For more information about wrapping at Southgate, please call Emily Levin at 941.923.1904; for wrapping at Sarasota Square, call Kim Sheintal at 941.302.1433.

sunday, december 1 Deadline for applications Sponsored by

Today is the deadline for applications for March of the Living, Panim el Panim, Young Ambassadors and AIPAC. For details or to apply, visit www.jfedsrq.org. For information, contact Amber Ikeman at aikeman@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2106.

“A Taste of Chanukah”

HAIFA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA OF ISRAEL

Sponsored by

You are invited to attend “A Taste of Chanukah,” a free, outdoor holiday festival from noon to 5:00 p.m. at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. This year’s event will feature kosher food prepared by Michael’s On East, Mattison’s, Veg, Delicious Creations and Randabi’s Deli. The entertainment will include a tightrope walk by the Wallenda family, a llama show, a skateboard and trampoline show, a giant 3-ton snow slide, stilt walkers, face painting, jugglers, balloon sculptors, snake and bird shows by Jungle Gardens, a performance by the Riverview Highland Dancers, the Kol Yisrael Orchestra, and the kindling of a 30-foot Menorah. For more information or to volunteer, visit www.atasteofchanukah.com or call the Chabad of Sarasota office at 941.925.0770.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22ND @ 8PM The Haifa Symphony Orchestra of Israel was founded in 1950 and in recent years has become the focal point of musical life in Haifa and the north of Israel. The Orchestra, which is the most significant musical institute in the north of Israel, has

BOGUSLAW DAWIDOW PRINCIPAL GUEST CONDUCTOR

recently expanded its activities throughout the country.

PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

The High Point Group

Stacey R. Grad, Financial Advisor 941.363.8522 stacey.grad@morganstanley.com www.morganstanleyfa.com/highpoint

Two North Tamiami Trail Suite 1100 Sarasota, Florida 34236

777 North Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 34236 Charge-It Line (941) 953-3368 Business Office (941) 955-7676

ROMAN RABINOVICH PIANIST

FOR TICKETS OR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: www.vanwezel.org

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

December 2013

Attention Bridge PlAyers The Bridge Group meets Thursday afternoons from 1:00-4:00 pm on the Federation Campus (582 McIntosh Road). Open to intermediate and advanced bridge players.

For more information, call Bob Satnick at 941-538-3739.

pen Now oston in Bo

On St. Armands Circle

Hot dogs to order!

DISCOUNT SLEEP CENTER Since 1972

MON-FRI 8:30-8:00 • SAT 8:30-6:00 • SUN 11:00-6:00

• Free Bed Frame with Set • 30-Day Comfort Exchange • Removal and Set Up • Free Same Day Delivery • Quality, Value and Service • Discount Prices on Adjustable Beds • Locally Owned & Operated • Larry Cohen, Owner Authorized Dealer

So much more than yogurt!

SLEEP KING

NEVER KNOWINGLY UNDERSOLD!

Posturepedic

941-922-5271 • TOLL FREE 800-265-9124

www.sleepkingsarasota.com • www.sleepkingboston.com

1901 HANSEN ST., SARASOTA • 1 BLOCK SOUTH OF BEE RIDGE OFF 41 - TURN @ TIRE KINGDOM

monday, december 2 Torah Tots

Self serve yogurt! Fresh cut curly fries!

Homemade ice cream!

Create a masterpiece!

Come in FR for a 2-HourEE nap!

Hot mini donuts!

• Catering for Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Weddings and Special Occasions • Enjoy special pricing for Birthday/Occasion parties for lunch or dinner at Sarasota Yogurt (10 or more) • Call for bookings and reservations: Scott Pastor

ST ARMANDS CIRCLE | 327-A JOHN RINGLING BLVD. | 941.388.0300 SARASOTAYOGURTCOMPANY.COM

Join other parents, grandparents and caregivers as we explore the child’s world through story, song, cooking, crafts and circle time. Torah Tots encourages multi-sensory experiences that stimulate emerging language, motor development, socialization and bonding between parents and child. Explore child rearing from a Jewish perspective, participate in group activities and learn Jewish customs that will enhance this unique time in your toddler’s life in these formative years. Torah Tots runs from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. Suggested donation: $6. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@chabadofbradenton.com.

Chanukah comfort foods Celebrate Chanukah with us as we light six candles tonight, sing at least a dozen traditional Chanukah songs (song sheets provided), and delight in the traditional Chanukah comfort foods of our childhoods – latkes, applesauce, sufganiyot (delicious donuts Israeli style), falafel, meats and homemade Chanukah cookies – all kosher. Bring your children, grandchildren and friends to light and feast in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Let the miracle of lights enter your life! Cost: $7 per adult; $3 per child. Join us at 5:00 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 713 South Orange Avenue, Burns Square, Sarasota. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

Chanukah menorah lighting in North Port Join us at 5:00 p.m. as we celebrate Chanukah in North Port at the North Port City Hall. There will be lots of music, latkes and donuts. For more information, please contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabadofvenice.com.

Downtown Bradenton Hanukkah celebration Temple Beth El will hold its annual “Downtown Bradenton Candle Lighting Ceremony” and “Hanukkah Celebration” at 6:30 p.m. The event will take place in front of the “former” Manatee Players building on Barcotta Blvd. between 12th and 13th Streets. Rabbi Harold Caminker and Cantor Alan Cohn will lead the celebration as we welcome the participation of the First United Methodist Church choir, soloist Deborah Suta and Marianne Barnaby. Along with the lighting of the city’s Hanukkah menorah, we will have stories, songs and fun for all. This event is open to the entire community. For more information, please call the temple office at 941.755.4900, Tuesday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to noon.

tuesday, december 3 Survivors’ Afternoon Tea Sponsored by

Holocaust survivors and their spouses are invited to celebrate Hanukkah together at 2:00 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road. RSVP required. For information or to RSVP, contact Orna Nissan at onissan@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6305.

Rosh Chodesh Society – “Finding Faith” Join Chanie Bukiet for the second of seven classes in RCS’s latest course: A Reason to Celebrate. This course looks to illuminate our lives though the Jewish holidays. In this class, we will explore the Jewish perspective on faith and suffering. Refreshments will be served. The class begins at 7:30 p.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. $75 per course, textbooks included. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@ chabadofbradenton.com.

JEWISH HAPPENINGS 3B December 2013 wednesday, december 4 Hanukkah Sing-along Sponsored by

Join The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and Kobernick House to celebrate the last night of Hanukkah. Sing along with Hazzan Neil Newman and Howard Tevlowitz as we light 100 menorahs together. Join us for this free event at 7:00 p.m. at Kobernick House, 1951 N. Honore Avenue, Sarasota. Light refreshments will be served. RSVP required at www.jfedsrq.org/events.aspx. For more information, please contact Flora Oynick at foynick@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2114.

December 2013

Holiday Catering, TooJay’s Style. Sumptuous Party Platters Delicious Hot Entrees Lavish Desserts Home or Office Delivery & Set Up

Temple Emanu-El “Lunch with the Rabbi” Are you looking for a great lunch date? Join Rabbi Brenner Glickman and plenty of nice, friendly, interesting companions for lunch, socializing, and a discussion of current events and subjects of Jewish interest. All are invited at noon at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Attendees are asked to bring a brown-bag lunch and are also welcome to bring a newspaper article or suggested topic for discussion. Homemade dessert and enjoyable company are provided! Free. For more information, call the temple office at 941.371.2788.

Interesting Lives Series presents Ana Hirsch Join us at 1:15 p.m. in the Band/Desenberg Chapel at Temple Beth Sholom (1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota) to hear Ana Hirsch speak about her life in Lima, Peru, where she grew up. She will recount how she became interested in exercise and health, as she has been in this field for the last 20 years. She will talk about fitness, health, and “Sit and Get Fit” exercise, which TBS has just introduced as a temple activity. Come and met her. It’s free and open to the public. For further information, call Arlene Hamburger at 941.921.2554.

WWW.TOOJAYS.COM

SARASOTA Westfield Southgate • 941-362-3730

REAL. GOOD. FOOD.

Being Jewish

&Female

The Grand Chanukah Music Festival Join us at 4:30 p.m. for the lighting of a 12-foot menorah at the Gazebo in Centennial Park (200 W. Venice Avenue, downtown Venice). Latkes, donuts, falafel and refreshments will be available for sale. New for this year: a life-size dreidel house! Special musical performance by children from the Chabad of Venice Hebrew School, and a live concert by Dr. Laz and the Jewish Rockers, whose performance will include Jewish jazz, reggae, and rock ’n’ roll. For more information, contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabadofvenice.com.

in America

Renowned Author and Journalist Emmy Recipient and Social Activist

LETTY COTTIN POGREBIN

to speak at Congregation Kol HaNeshama

Chanukah Fun at Gulf Gate Library Laura Freedman, Director of Early Childhood Education at Temple Sinai, brings Chanukah Fun for preschoolers to Gulf Gate Library (temporarily located in the Sarasota Square Mall near JCPenney) at 5:00 p.m. This event is free and all families are invited. Story time, games, hands-on craft projects and, of course, treats make it a most fun activity. This annual event is done in partnership with Librarian Michelle Guffanti. No RVSPs are needed. For more information, call Laura at 941.926.9462.

Chanukah dinner Join us at 6:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel (567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key) for a home-cooked meal plus music and entertainment. Cost: $30 (open to TBI members and guests – limited to 120). Paid reservations required by November 29. Contact the TBI office at info@tbi-lbk.org or 941.383.3428.

Lion of Judah & Pomegranate Chocolate Luncheon Friday, February, 14, 2014

The Resort at Longboat Key Club Featuring Rabbi Debbi Prinz Co-chairs Nadia Ritter & Bunny Skirboll

JANUARY 9th, 7:00 PM · Southgate Community Center 3145 Southgate Circle · Sarasota

$10 for non-members of KH · Reservations Required Dessert Buffet following Lecture Sign up is on the home page of our website at www.congkh.org or call 941·244·2042

Seating is limited for this Outstanding One Time Special Event.

September 7-10, 2014

THE MARRIOTT MARQUIS TIMES SQUARE SAvE THE dATE for The Jewish Federations of North America’s 2014 International Lion of Judah Conference! Join the most dedicated, passionate and philanthropic women in the world as we gather for three inspirational days of learning and sharing. For more information, contact Ilene Fox at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org

Questions? Contact Ilene Fox at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org The Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota FL 34232 941.371.4546 • www.TheJewishFederation.org

December 2013 thursday, december 5

JEWISH HAPPENINGS friday, december 6

Chug Ivri (Hebrew Circle)

Chanukah party and brunch

The Chug Ivri is a weekly study group of individuals who wish to improve their knowledge of Hebrew, both spoken and reading. It is conducted at an advanced intermediate level and consists of reading an Israeli newspaper (for experienced students of Hebrew) and Hebrew conversation. There is no teacher. The members’ knowledge and the use of dictionaries provide the expertise. Our goal is to use Hebrew as much as possible during the meeting. There is no cost. Anyone who has the necessary Hebrew competence and wishes to expand his/her Hebrew knowledge is welcome to join the group, which meets at 11:00 a.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. For more information, call Claire Fox at 941.921.3765.

Please join the Brandeis National Committee of Sarasota from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the Federation Campus, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Our professional violinist, Laurie Vodnoy-Wright, will delight us with a variety of classical, pop and Yiddish music. Brunch includes quiche, muffins, rolls, fruit, tea and coffee. Cost: $18 for members; $23 for guests. RSVP by November 29. Call event chair Irene Cuny at 941.977.7576.

Miniversity - Dr. Allan Schwartz Dr. Allan Schwartz continues his fascinating series on the influential role that presidential health has played in American governance and diplomacy. Session I examines President Franklin Roosevelt’s disability and his relationship with the Jewish community regarding the Holocaust, Supreme Court and Jewish quotas. Join us at 2:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Cost: free for TBI members; $5 for nonmembers. To register or for more information, contact the TBI office at info@tbi-lbk.org or 941.383.3428.

“Positively Israel: JNF’s Work in Israel” Join the Sarasota-Manatee chapter of the Zionist Organization of America at the Al Katz Center for an enlightening program on “Positively Israel: JNF’s Work in Israel” presented by Ariel Kotler, JNF’s Israel Operations Development Officer. In the IDF, Kotler studied to be a medic and became Lieutenant Commander in the Intelligence Infantry. Learn much more about JNF’s latest initiatives in building the State of Israel into a thriving land arisen from the desert rocks and sands. $5 donation to ZOA; kosher refreshments will be served; students encouraged to come. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 713 South Orange Avenue, Burns Square, Sarasota. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239. For more information about ZOA-Sarasota, visit www.ZOAsarasota.org.

Tot Shabbat and Kiddie Oneg Temple Sinai (4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota) invites families to its quarterly Tot Shabbat service at 5:30 p.m. It’s a warm and interactive service designed for preschool-age through second-grade children. Rabbi Huntting, Chazzan Abramson (and his guitar), and Geveret Laura Freedman, Director of Early Childhood Education, come together to create a special experience. The service includes story time and sing-a-longs, and concludes with a Kiddie Oneg. All families are welcomed. Contact Laura at 941.926.9462 for more specifics.

Special Shabbat evening Temple Sinai features its popular Rhythm and Jews Service with the Bruno Trio at 6:00 p.m. followed by a traditional Shabbat dinner. Youth Group members will be participating in the service and there will also be recognition for Rabbi Huntting’s 20 years of dedication to Temple Sinai. Join us at 5:15 p.m. for a Welcome Reception. Temple Sinai is located at 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota. Cost: for dinner: $25 for adult S Awith LE S Pay online at www.templesinaiguests; T $30OforPfamilies youths. sarasota.org. information, A SFor S more OC I A T Ecall 941.924-1802. Ranked in the Top 1% of Coldwell Banker SalesThe Associates Who Does Jewish Community Worldwide

Turn To For The Most Trusted Service In Real Estate?

Ackerman

BARBARA

REALTOR®

Connecting the Sarasota 30 years. T hyou e with nam e best t o that kno w i n rhas e ato l offer e s t for a t over e

www .BarbaraAckerman.com www.barbaraackerman.com 800-910-8728 toll-free • 800-910-8728 941-387-1820

TOLL-FREE

941-387-1820 office • 941-780-6045 barbara@barbaraackerman.com barbara@barbaraackerman.com

cell

201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite 1 • Longboat Key, FL 34228

201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite1 Longboat Key, FL 34228

The Suncoast’s Premier Indoor Fine Art & Craft Show

2013 Expertise you can rely on.

110 Artists jewelry ceramics wearable art mixed media photography wood leather metal sculpture painting fiber glass

Kimberly Willcox

December 6•7•8 Robarts Arena 3000 Ringling Blvd.

Harry Roa

As a trusted partner to businesses and families across generations since 1919, Baird has seen investors through many market cycles. And the insight we’ve gained from this experience informs all we do today as we strive to create great outcomes for our clients throughout their financial lives. Put Baird’s time-tested expertise to work toward your long-term goals. Richard M. Stern Senior Vice President Private Wealth Management 941-906-2840 rstern@rwbaird.com

SHOW TIMES Fri. Dec. 6: 10am-6pm Sat. Dec. 7: 10am-6pm Sun. Dec. 8: 10am-4pm

Jeffrey H. Stern Registered Client Relationship Specialist 941-906-2843 jstern@rwbaird.com

ADMISSION Adults: $9 • Seniors: $8 Students: $5 Weekend Pass: $12 Children under 10 Free

Jamie B. Zinkhan Registered Client Relationship Associate 941-906-2844 jzinkhan@rwbaird.com

Reduced Price Tickets Online | SarasotaCraftshow.com

Capital Markets – Investment Banking

Private Equity

Asset Management

JEWISH HAPPENINGS 5B December 2013 saturday, december 7 Pajama Havdalah at Temple Emanu-El Sponsored by

Bundle your little ones into their favorite PJs for a special evening at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. We’ll enjoy a visit and photo op with the Sabbath Queen, a pizza dinner, Jewish story time and a craft, and Shabbat songs and movement with Rabbi Brenner Glickman. When it gets dark, we’ll use a real telescope to check out the stars, then conclude with snacks and Havdalah. This special, fun, cuddly event begins at 5:00 p.m. and is designed for families with children up to age 6; families with older kids are invited to come at 6:30 p.m. for stargazing and Havdalah, then stay for a craft and movie night featuring The Princess Bride! Sponsored by Temple EmanuEl, PJ Library and The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Free, with a donation of $5/family requested for those eating pizza. For more information or to make a reservation, please contact Rabbi Elaine Rose Glickman at 941.379.1997 or elaine-glickman@comcast.net.

“Hell and High Water...You and Your Grandchildren” Joel D. Fedder, Esq. serves on the National Summit Council of the Sierra Club, and with his wife Ellen, established the Fedder Environmental Law Fund at the University of Maryland Law School. The fund sponsored the International Environmental Law Professors conference, which was attended by over 200 people from 30 countries around the world. What does this tipping point in our climate change mean for us and the generations to come? Join the Congregation for Humanistic Judaism at 10:30 a.m. at Unity (3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota) to hear Joel’s presentation. Suggested donation of $5 for non-CHJ members. For more information, visit www. CHJ-Sarasota.org or call 941.929.7771.

Chabad Film Fest Join Chabad for a movie night to watch the Jewish comedy Operation Thunderbolt. Enjoy hot dogs, chips and drinks. The screening begins at 7:30 p.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. Admission is $3; admission and food is $5. For more information, please contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@chabadofbradenton.com.

Sarasota Concert Association

December 2013

sunday, december 8 Falafel with Yoav & PARveDise ice cream Join us at noon at The Chabad House (5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton) and enjoy a terrific kosher falafel lunch and delicious non-dairy ice cream from our very own soft-serve PARveDise ice cream machine. Cost: $5 for allyou-can-eat falafel; $2 for ice cream. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@chabadofbradenton.com.

Mamele film at Temple Emanu-El Set in Lodz, Poland, the acclaimed Yiddish film Mamele embraces preWorld War II Polish Jewish life in all its diversity. Portrayed are tenements, nightclubs, religious Jews celebrating the festival of Sukkot, unemployed Jews, and Jewish gangsters. But the film belongs unquestionably to Molly Picon, “Queen of Yiddish Musicals,” singing the theme song Abi Gezunt and, in one of the film’s high points, acting her way through the stages of a woman’s life from childhood to old age. Admission is $5. The screening begins at 2:00 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For more information, email Temple Emanu-El Chair of Adult Education Beth Ann Salzman at bethannys@comcast.net.

10th Annual Comedy Central at Chabad SRQ Enjoy the wit and humor of comedian Lenny Marcus, who has been a standup comedian performing at all the major comedy clubs in New York City for over 15 years. Lenny has recently appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman, and performed standup on Comedy Centeral’s Live at Gotham and other television shows. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. at Chabad of Sarasota, 7700 Beneva Road. Chips, dips, soft drink and wine will be served. Cost is $40. For reservations and further information, call the Chabad office at 941.925.0770.

PLEASE Support Our Advertisers

They help make the Jewish News possible.

Join us in celebrating our

10th ANNIVERSARY!

presents the 2014

2013-2014 SEASON EVENTS

at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Monday, January 6 • 8 p.m.

Marc-André Hamelin, piano Combining deep insight and technical wizardry!

Monday, January 27 • 8 p.m.

Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio Nokuthula Ngwenyama, violist

Wednesday, February 5 • 8 p.m.

East Coast Chamber Orchestra A rare ensemble performance by these celebrated musicians!

Wednesday, February 19 • 8 p.m.

Russia’s St. Petersburg Philharmonic

PMP Sarasota Winter Residency 20 free musical events led by Itzhak Perlman and other acclaimed mentors December 22, 2013-January 4, 2014 USF Sarasota-Manatee Campus $5 E-tickets available at PMPSuncoast.org. Free Ticket distribution begins December 4 at USF Sarasota-Manatee. Complete Winter Residency schedule and updates at PMPSuncoast.org.

10th Anniversary Celebration Concert Featuring Itzhak Perlman conducting the PMP String Orchestra January 4, 2014, 5 p.m. Sarasota Opera House Sarasota Opera box office: 941-366-8450 Tickets: $40, $60, $80 For gala and special events, call 941-350-2338

Nikolai Alexeev, conductor • Denis Kozhukhin, pianist in partnership with

Monday, March 3 • 8 p.m.

Detroit Symphony Leonard Slatkin, conductor • Olga Kern, pianist

SUBSCRIBE NOW AND SAVE OVER 25% ON SINGLE CONCERT TICKET PRICES FIVE-CONCERT SUBSCRIPTION: $255 • $225 • $185 • $145 Single ticket prices: $40-$75

941-955-0040

www.scasarasota.org

For information, call 941-955-4942 or visit PMPSuncoast.org

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

December 2013

monday, december 9 Women’s Day Luncheon featuring Campbell Brown Sponsored by

Join us at 11:00 a.m. at Michael’s On East, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota. A minimum gift of $36 to the 2013 development efforts of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is requested. Tickets are $65, $90 and $126. To RSVP, visit www.jfedsrq.org/ events.aspx or call Joan Hanley at 941.343.2115. For more information, contact Ilene Fox at ifox@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2111.

Leyenkreiz (Yiddish Reading Circle) Join us on alternate Mondays (also December 23) from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom (1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota) to read Yiddish stories and poems, and sing Yiddish songs. Must be able to read Yiddish. For more information, please call Lillian Green at 941.953.2155.

JFCS Mind Set Classes Mind Set Classes offer an organized approach to everyday living and provide activities to stimulate memory and thinking. The cost is $25 for four sessions (Mondays & Tuesdays, December 9, 10, 16, 17). Classes take place from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the JFCS Main Campus, 2688 Fruitville Road, Sarasota. Pre-registration is required and pre-assessment may be required. Contact Glenda Pinkston at 941.366.2224 x131 or gpinkston@ jfcs-cares.org.

chag same’ach

Howard Gardner – The App Generation

may your hanukkah be bright and beautiful holiday catering and gift certificates available tel: 941-782-0899 xt 221 www.pologrillandbar.com

Are you baffled by how younger people live in a digital world? Are you living in that world and don’t see what the fuss is about? In his new book, The App Generation, Howard Gardner looks at what’s different for today’s adolescents. The event begins at 8:15 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Cost: $5 (free for TBI members). For more information, contact the TBI office at info@tbi-lbk.org or 941.383.3428.

tuesday, december 10

Services to Benefit AMERICA’S FINEST

Trivia, Bingo & Bagels - Club Fed - A Senior Chavurah Sponsored by

Join us from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Jerusalem Room in The Arthur & Beatrice Michaels Cultural & Activity Center in the Flanzer/Weinberg building on the Federation Campus, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. This is a free event, but reservations are required. To RSVP, visit www.jfedsrq.org/events.aspx or contact Jeremy Lisitza at jlisitza@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2113.

YAD Happy Hour at Social on First

Seminar: Veterans Aid & Attendance Benefit If you’re a wartime veteran, or the surviving spouse of a veteran, the Veterans Aid & Attendance Benefit could be an ideal solution for financing your senior housing needs. Join us for a special presentation about eligibility requirements, payable benefits, how to file claims and more.

Tuesday, December 10 | 11:30 a.m. Guest speaker: Mark Larsen, American Association for Wartime Veterans Complimentary admission and lunch

For reservations or more information, call 1-888-590-6979 by December 6.

2013 BENEFITS

The maximum monthly pension amounts are... Surviving Spouse ....................................................... $1,113 Healthy Vet / Spouse needs care ........................... $1,360 Single Veteran ............................................................ $1,732 Married Veteran ......................................................... $2,054* *Actual benefit amount is determined by the VA based on eligibility.

Independent Living | Assisted Living 4540 Bee Ridge Road Sarasota, Florida 34233 brookdale.com ® Reg. U.S. Patent and TM Office 20103-FSI01-1213 SW ALL THE PLACES LIFE CAN GO is a Trademark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA

Assisted Living Facility #AL5851

The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee invites you to join other young Jewish adults for a drink from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Social on First, 1219 1st Street, Sarasota. For more information, contact Jessi Sheslow at jsheslow@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2109.

Mitzvah Knitting Group Are you a knitter or crocheter interested in using your talent to brighten the lives of others while making new friends? If so, please come to the Mitzvah Knitting Group sponsored by Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood. We gather monthly to craft and socialize, and our beautiful handiwork is donated to needy families in Sarasota-Manatee and in Israel. Bring your needles or crochet hook and a favorite pattern – we’ll supply the yarn and great company. The group meets at 10:00 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Free. For more information, email Susan Bernstein at susanhope22@comcast.net.

“The Abandonment of the Jews in the Holocaust” The controversy continues to this day about the abandonment of the rescue of desperate and dying Jews in the Holocaust. The definitive book on this topic, The Abandonment of the Jews: America and the Holocaust 1941-1945, by David S. Wyman, details the stakes, the costs, and the stakeholders making momentous decisions about who was to live and who to die in history’s most hideous blight upon humanity. This is a “must read” and “must discuss.” Cost: $5; kosher refreshments served; discussion materials provided. The event begins at 1:30 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 713 South Orange Avenue, Burns Square, Sarasota. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

Stay connected @ www.jfedsrq.org

JEWISH HAPPENINGS 7B December 2013 wednesday, december 11

December 2013

MAYTA’S PERUVIAN RESTAURANT

Idelson Library Film Matinee Series Sholem Aleichem: Laughing in the Darkness (2011 documentary, 93 minutes) is a riveting portrait of writer Sholem Aleichem, whose stories about Tevye the Milkman became the basis of the Broadway musical Fiddler on the Roof. Aleichem (1859-1916) was a rebellious wordsmith who created a new genre of literature and used his remarkable humor to encapsulate the realities of the Eastern European Jewish world in the late nineteenth century. The screening begins at 1:15 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, Madeline L. Sainer Social Hall, 1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. Refreshments (sponsored by the Men’s Club), including popcorn, will be served. Adeline Silverman will lead a question and answer session after the film. Cost: $3 for temple members; $5 for nonmembers. Please call the temple office at 941.955.8121 for more information.

Mayta’s does not disappoint,

LUNCH

always intrigues, and provides a great introduction to one of the world’s great cuisines. Casual, light and lively, Mayta’s is a true culinary experience. We invite you to explore our authentically prepared dishes and decadent desserts.

Tuesday - Friday ~ 12pm to 3pm

DINNER Tuesday - Friday ~ 5pm to 10pm Saturday & Sunday ~ 5pm to 10pm Closed Monday

LIVE MÚSICA Fridays from 6pm to 9pm guitars, harps and cajon

Available for Catering and Special Events www.maytasrestaurant.com ~ 941.444.7245 4854 S. Tamiami Trail, The Landings, Sarasota (near Publix)

Vegetarian Menu Wine and Beer

Jewish Owned & Operated

thursday, december 12 JFCS Holocaust Survivors Support Group Sponsored by

All survivors are invited to attend these monthly gatherings of friendship, camaraderie and support. Find out the latest on Claims Conference information, enjoy a light nosh and a lively discussion on “Your Personal Traditions.” The group meets from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at JFCS, South County Human Services Center, 19503 West Villages Parkway, North Port (next door to the State College of Florida). Sponsored by Jewish Family & Children’s Service, Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Community Services, The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee and the Claims Conference. To RSVP or for more information, contact Jan Alston at 941.366.2224 x172 or jalston@jfcs-cares.org.

Sarasota Jewish Chorale Chanukah party The Sarasota Jewish Chorale will celebrate the Chanukah season at 6:00 p.m. with a combined party and rehearsal at the home of accompanist Sybil Broh. Following dinner, members will congregate around the piano with Director Linda Stewart Tucker to rehearse for their next gig, which will take place Sunday, January 19 for the Sarasota Genealogy Society. The popular social gathering will conclude with chorale members singing favorite tunes. For information about the Sarasota Jewish Chorale, contact Susan Skovronek at 941.355.8011 or asuskov2002@yahoo.com.

Rosh Chodesh Society – “Finding Faith” All women are welcome to join us for a talk entitled “Finding Faith.” In times of suffering or pain, one can feel distant from G-d, and this class will elaborate on how one can access faith in challenging times. Following the talk, women will taste cholent and learn how to make this tantalizing Shabbat food with Lili Rosenberg. We thank Anne Stein for sponsoring the Rosh Chodesh Society. The event begins at 7:15 p.m. at Chabad of Sarasota, 7700 Beneva Road. Cost: Rebbetzin Circle Members, free; N’shei members, $10; nonmembers, $12. Advance reservations are necessary at 941.925.0770.

AIPAC’s annual Sarasota event Join us at 7:30 p.m. at The Ritz-Carlton, 1111 Ritz Carlton Drive, Sarasota. The guest speaker is AIPAC CEO Howard Kohr. Cost: $25. RSVP to Jacki Alexander at 954.653.9053 or jalexander@aipac.org, or register online at www.aipac.org/Sarasota.

Jewish Women’s Club Join us for mahjong or challah baking. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, you will have the opportunity to learn and have fun with the activity of your choice! Sample delectable desserts and discover the history of the Jewish heroine Sara and learn how she provided guidance in the past and lessons for the present. Cost: $12 for JWC members; $15 for nonmembers. The event begins at 7:30 p.m. at Chabad Jewish Center, 2169 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice. For more information, contact Rivka Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rivka@chabadofvenice.com.

140 kosher characters: twitter.com/jfedsrq

You are invited... to our Sushi and Sake

OPEN HOUSE 5:30 - 7p.m. Wednesday, December 11, 2013 Kobernick House Senior Living Community 1951 N. Honore Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34235 RSVP to Elaina Mand at 941-225-8369 or email emand@kobernickanchin.org

Sarasota’s only rental senior community offering a full continuum of care www.kobernickanchin.org

Sponsored by Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Housing Council, Inc. Kobernick-Anchin-Benderson operates on a non-discrimination basis for admissions, services and employment. Assisted Living Facility #8951. Skilled Nursing #130471046

December 2013

JEWISH HAPPENINGS sunday, december 15

friday, december 13 TGIF at Chabad

Jewish War Veterans meeting

Join Chabad for a fabulous Friday night service followed by a delicious kiddush of kugels, fish, salads, challah and more! An exciting children’s program will take place during services with incentives and prizes. Everyone is welcome at 7:00 p.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@chabadofbradenton.com.

Join Sarasota Co. Post 172 Jewish War Veterans of the USA at its monthly meeting at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. Breakfast with lox and bagels begins at 9:15 a.m. The business meeting will begin at 10:00 a.m. The discussion will include an upcoming event with other JWV Posts in Southwest Florida in early 2014. Several WWII veterans will also share some of their experiences. A new membership drive is being held. Surveys show approximately 250 Jewish veterans in the SarasotaBradenton are. If you know a veteran who is not involved with our Post, please ask them to join us. For further information, contact Stuart Krupkin, Commander, at 941.342.3413.

TBS Live in the Sanctuary Join us for a lively musical service for all ages where the congregation welcomes Shabbat through music and dance with the traditional Sabbath prayers. Open to the public, the service begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Temple Beth Sholom sanctuary, 1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. Please call the temple office at 941.955.8121 for more information.

saturday, december 14 Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast Holiday Party SaraMana ORT continues its tradition as the “Cupcake Ladies” at the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast Annual Holiday Party. Chapter volunteers bring home-made cupcakes, icing, small candies and sprinkles, and work with the children to make their own creations. Upwards of 100 children, from elementary through high-school age, turn out for this event and everyone has a wonderful time. The party takes place from 9:30 a.m. to noon at Sun-N-Fun Resort, Woodland Hall, 7125 Fruitville Road, Sarasota. For more information, call Shelley Goldklang at 941.306.5577 or Lynn Harris at 941.753.5548.

For a continuously updated calendar, visit www.jfedsrq.org

Bingo! All are welcome to this lively multigenerational afternoon featuring bingo, pizza, a make-your-own ice cream sundae bar, and plenty of fun. We’ll have many different bingo games and end with the grand finale – blackout. Win prizes, enjoy some friendly competition, and hang out with new and old friends. Net proceeds benefit the Kids to Kids BackPack Program feeding hungry children at Lakeview Elementary School. B-There at noon at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Cost: $10 per 3 Bingo cards. Sponsored by Temple Emanu-El’s Ways & Means Committee. For more information or reservations, please email Dan Barwick at dan@ barwick.us.

Jewish Genealogical Society of SWFL meeting Join us at 1:00 p.m. as Kim Sheintal presents “Finding Vintage Family Photographs.” Kim will share tips on finding photos of specific people and places via books, newspapers, museums, historical societies and other sources. She will explain how photo-sharing websites, Facebook and Google can help as well. Finally, she will display some of the photos she discovered and will tell how she found them. Everyone is welcome to this free event, which takes place at Kobernick House, 1951 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota. For more information, contact Kim Sheintal at 941.921.1433 or klapshein@aol.com, or visit http://jgsswf.org/.

UNLOCK YOUR SALES POTENTIAL. ADVERTISE IN

Robin Leonardi 941.552.6307 rleonardi@jfedsrq.org www.TheJewishNews.org

ADVERTISING DEADLINES JANUARY ISSUE FEBRUARY ISSUE MARCH ISSUE APRIL ISSUE

December 2 January 2 January 30 February 28

AMIT L EG AC Y S O C I E T Y

H.O.P.E. = Help Other People Everyday

Receive income for life

DAVID M. BARACH Compassionate Home Health Care Provider

with a charitable gift annuity to AMIT.

Providing Comfort, Assistance, Safety & Preserving Dignity & Independence to the Residents of Sarasota and Surrounding Areas. •

Plan Today for Israel’s Tomorrow

Guaranteed income for life. Income tax savings and reduced capital gains. Your gift of a smiling future for thousands of children in Israel.

License # 274871

• Home Health Aide Professional •

Let AMIT run a free Charitable Gift Annuity income calculation for you!

• Trained by the American Red Cross •

For more information on charitable gift annuities or other components of the AMIT Planned Giving Program, please contact Robin Isaacson,National Director, Planned Giving, at 954-922-5100 or Robini@amitchildren.org.

References Available

Contact David for the help & assistance you deserve! 1065 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Unit 605 Longboat Key, FL 34228

Please consult with your attorney, accountant, or investment advisor about gift annuities.

For more information on the AMIT Legacy Society please visit us at

781.367.2643

davidmbarach@gmail.com

www.amitchildren.org/plannedgiving

JEWISH HAPPENINGS 9B December 2013

December 2013

monday, december 16 “What Does it Mean to be Pro-Israel in America Today?” What does it mean for the American Jewish community to be pro-Israel? Is it acceptable for American Jews to criticize Israeli politics, as Israelis do? J Street president Jeremy Ben-Ami joins David Harris, executive director of the American Jewish Committee, and John Podhoretz, editor of Commentary Magazine, for a discussion of what it means to be pro-Israel in America. The event begins at 8:15 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Cost: $5 (free for TBI members). For more information, contact the TBI office at info@ tbi-lbk.org or 941.383.3428.

tuesday, december 17 JFCS Transitions Support Group Sponsored by

The death of a spouse, significant other or life partner is perhaps the most difficult experience that one can have. Once the initial intense period of grief has subsided, how do you recreate your life and go on? Meet new people in similar life circumstances; share experiences – what works, what doesn’t; begin to laugh and enjoy what life can offer you now; and receive support as you navigate this new road. The group will meet from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. at the JFCS Main Campus, 2688 Fruitville Road, Sarasota. No fee, but pre-registration is required. Contact Beverly Mishkin at 941.366.2224 x119 or bmishkin@ jfcs-cares.org. The Transitions Support Group is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

Temple Beth Sholom Sisterhood Invites you to attend

The Torah Fund Day of Study and Luncheon Honoring

Ruth F. Ades

Ladies Lunch & Learn Join Chanie Bukiet for a Lunch & Learn from noon to 1:00 p.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. Feast on a delicious lunch and learn Tanya, psychology of the soul, based on the Kabbalah. No cost. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@chabadofbradenton.com.

An Afternoon of Jewish Poetry: Emma Lazarus You are warmly invited to enjoy a leisurely, informative afternoon of poetry by Emma Lazarus, the Jewess who began welcoming immigrants to America in 1903 with her beloved lines, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free…” carved into the base of the Statue of Liberty. Join us for beverages and finger foods, and learn about this Sephardic Jew, who caught the notice of Ralph Waldo Emerson with her first book written at age 18. $5 donation appreciated; children welcome. The event begins at 2:00 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 713 South Orange Avenue, Burns Square, Sarasota. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

Light of Torah Ruth F. Ades Ruth F. Ades

Tuesday, January 7, 2014 Temple Beth Sholom

Rabbi Charles E. Savenor Rabbi Charles E. Savenor Keynote Speaker

Registration begins at 9:30am Program begins promptly at 10:00am ▪ Lunch at noon Couvert $36.00 checks made payable to TBS Sisterhood

Donations in honor of Ruth are separately payable to Torah Fund RSVP by December 18th to Julie Friedman 941-484-2790 or Betty Levitt 941-927-4854

1050 South Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34237

SaraMana ORT Members’ Book Club Join us from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. for a lively discussion of All Other Nights by Dara Horn, with facilitators Barb Sander and Jill Simons. Don’t miss this opportunity to listen, learn and share your perspectives. Watch your email for an e-vite with contact information, location and directions. For information about the SaraMana ORT Chapter, contact Lisa Deutsch at lzdeutsch@ gmail.com or 941.907.3776, or Marsha Halpern at 941.907.3744.

wednesday, december 18 Temple Beth Sholom Sisterhood Book Review Join us at 1:15 p.m. in the Band/Desenberg Chapel at Temple Beth Sholom (1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota) to hear Jack Polejes review King David: The Real Life of the Man Who Ruled Israel by Jonathan Kirsch. After reading the Book of Samuel, which contains the story of Israel’s most famous king, most readers will have as many questions as they have answers. Jonathan Kirsch tells the story of David so that the book reads like a novel, except that he uses archaeological and scholarly evidence to reveal the truth behind the legend. This event is free and open to the public. Dessert and coffee will be served. For more information, please call Arlene Hamburger at 941.921.2554.

Read the current and previous editions of The Jewish News online at www.jfedsrq.org.

Old Values, New Ideas Bringing a unique international perspective to Sarasota real estate 2170 Main Street, Suite 203 Sarasota, FL 34237

941-388-8232 Derrick Bhayat Direct: 941-284-4447 derrick@kellygettelrealestate.com

www.kellygettelandco.com

10B

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

December 2013

THE UROLOGY TREATMENT CENTER

Winston E. Barzell, M.D., FACS Alan R. Treiman, M.D., FACS Kenneth J. Bregg, M.D., FACS Joshua T. Green, M.D., FACS Robert I. Carey, M.D., PhD, FACS Daniel M. Kaplon, M.D.

Diplomate of the American Board of Urology 1921 Waldemere Street, Suite 310, Sarasota 5350 University Parkway Suite #207, Sarasota

(941) 917-8488

www.urologytreatmentcenter.com

WordMasters

Complete Writing and Editorial Services Offering you the highest caliber of customized assistance during any stage of the communication process. • Manuscript Critiques and Editing • Brochures • Newsletters

We can help!

• Reports • Manuals • Web Content

Sandy and Gary Chase 941·355·0899 • thewordmaster@comcast.net • www.thewordmaster.net

thursday, december 19 JFCS Holocaust Survivors Support Group Sponsored by

All survivors are invited to attend these monthly gatherings of friendship, camaraderie and support. Find out the latest on Claims Conference information, enjoy a light nosh and a lively discussion on “Your Personal Traditions.” The group meets from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. at Kobernick House, 1951 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota. Sponsored by Jewish Family & Children’s Service, Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Community Services, The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee and the Claims Conference. To RSVP or for more information, contact Jan Alston at 941.366.2224 x172 or jalston@jfcs-cares.org.

Miniversity - Dr. Allan Schwartz Dr. Allan Schwartz continues his fascinating series on the influential role presidential health has played in American governance and diplomacy. Session II explores how the assassination attempt on President Reagan, along with his unrevealed health conditions, impacted world history and politics in more recent times. Join us at 2:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Cost: free for TBI members; $5 for nonmembers. To register or for more information, contact the TBI office at info@tbi-lbk.org or 941.383.3428.

Cteen - “In Appreciation” Cteen is a Jewish teen club that compacts exhilarating fun and meaningful projects into a program that’s thrilling and uniting. Cteen events happen at least monthly, but the moments last a lifetime. Come experience the secret of Jewish survival and see how the miracle of Chanukah still shines today. Glow-in-the-dark sports, crafts and fun will help keep our flame burning bright. This month’s humanitarian focus is: Seniors and Partners with Smiles for Seniors. This free event begins at 7:30 p.m. at Chabad Jewish Center, 2169 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice. For more information, contact Rivka Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rivka@chabadofvenice.com.

December 20-23, 26-30 Selby Garden Lights in Bloom Sponsored by

Our commitment is clear. At LernerCohen Healthcare, our commitment to our patients is clear. We limit the number of people we treat, never keep you waiting, and always answer the phone when you call, every day and any time. – Board Certified in Internal Medicine – Exceptional, Experienced Primary Care Physicians – Personal Attention – Unlimited Visits – 24/7 Access with No Waiting So, if you’re looking for some clarity and personal attention from your health care provider, look no further. Call LernerCohen today. We are now accepting a limited number of new patients.

Add sparkle to the holiday season during the annual Lights in Bloom celebration at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 811 S. Palm Avenue, Sarasota (nightly from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.). Children of all ages will love exploring the rainforest garden aglow with holiday lights. Kid-friendly activities, such as creating fun crafts, will be available in the Kids’ Corner. Tickets, which will include admission to the museum, will be available beginning Monday, December 2 online or at the Welcome Center. Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee. Please visit www.selby.org/events/lights-bloom-1 for more information.

friday, december 20 Technion speaker at Temple Sinai Professor Efraim Lev, dean of the Technion Department of Humanities and Arts, will speak during the 6:00 p.m. service at Temple Sinai, 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota. Professor Lev specializes in the history of medicine in the Middle East, especially in the Middle Ages and in modern times. His academic work has combined archeology with medicine and other interdisciplinary topics, which has allowed him to study subjects seldom researched together, and to arrive at new historical heights. Join us at 5:15 p.m. for a Welcome Reception. For more information, please call 941.924.1802.

“The Jews of Sarasota-Manatee”

The Doctor Is In. Always.

Brad S. Lerner, MD Louis M. Cohen, MD 1921 Waldemere Street, Suite 814 Sarasota, FL 34239 • LernerCohen.com

941.953.9080

Kim Sheintal, President of the Jewish Genealogical Society of Southwest Florida, notes that 2013 marks the 100th year of the first Jew settling in Sarasota-Manatee. Though Jews have never been more than 3% of the local population, the role they have played in creating businesses, charitable organizations and cultural assets is enormous. Author of The Jews of Sarasota-Manatee, Kim will display her many photographs as well as speak about the surprising history she found. Join the Congregation for Humanistic Judaism at 7:30 p.m. at Unity (3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota) to hear Kim’s presentation. Suggested donation of $5 for non-CHJ members. For more information, visit www.CHJ-Sarasota.org or call 941.929.7771.

WUSF watch & learn WSMRTV89.1 & 103.9 classical music WSMR 89.1 & &103.9 classical WUSF 89.7 news, information all night jazz music WUSF 89.7 news, information & all night jazz source WUSF.ORG your online WUSF.ORG your online source WUSF TV watch & learn

celebrating our anniversary

12B

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

December 2013

saturday, december 21

wednesday, december 25

Temple Beth El Havdalah service and speaker

Israeli movies and deli lunch

Temple Beth El Bradenton welcomes Rabbi Gary Bretton-Granatoor, Vice President, World Union for Progressive Judaism, New York, at its Havdalah service at 5:30 p.m. Rabbi Gary will share the important work and global mission of WUPJ – the international arm of the Reform movement. The entire community is invited to this interesting and informative program at 4200 32nd Street West. For more information, please call the temple office at 941.755.4900, Tuesday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to noon.

As the year 2013 closes and 2014 nears, our Israeli brethren are seeking your support through tourism to Judea and Samaria, where today’s Jewish pioneers are building their lives in imminent danger every day. Today’s movies have been sent here from Israel in order to help American Jews appreciate a world so different from our own and so distinctly courageous. Please open your hearts to the real-time struggles of our People, and see their lives from the inside. Cost: $12 per adult; $6 per student; kosher deli lunch served; vegetarian options available; students encouraged to come. The event begins at noon at the Al Katz Center, 713 South Orange Avenue, Burns Square, Sarasota. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

tuesday, december 24 Movie and kosher Chinese dinner What are you doing on Christmas Eve? Join the Temple Beth Sholom Men’s Club at 7:00 p.m. for a movie and a kosher Chinese dinner in the TBS Social Hall, 1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. Open to the public. Cost: $27 for members; $32 for nonmembers. For information or to RSVP by December 16, please call Gerry Ronkin at 941.955.8121.

Christmas Eve Chinese Food and Game Night It’s a Jewish tradition – Chinese food and spending time with Jewish friends on Christmas Eve. Temple Emanu-El invites the community to the second annual “traditional” December 24 celebration as we enjoy a catered Chinese dinner, a homemade dessert extravaganza, and a fun, relaxed, social night of games. Whether you like spring rolls and bridge, or moo shoo and mah jongg, or chicken fingers and checkers, we promise you a welcoming and yummy evening with old and new friends! The fun begins at 7:00 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For reservations, dinner pricing and more information, please call Ethel Gross at 941.388.7899.

saturday, december 28 Sunset cruise & dinner The Temple Beth El Social Activities Committee is presenting an evening of fun as we climb aboard the River Skipper II (located at Regatta Pointe Marina in Palmetto) for a beautiful sunset cruise up the Manatee River and then return to the Riverhouse Reef and Grill for a delicious dinner. The evening begins at 4:00 p.m. and costs $37.50 per person, prepaid with reservation. This fun event has grown in participation each year and the space limit of 40 people fills up quickly. For more information, please call the temple office at 941.755.4900, Tuesday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to noon.

monday, december 30 “90 Generations Denied: Building the Jewish Homeland”

www.grimefightersinc.com Established 1979

15% Off Any Cleaning Service When You Mention This Ad

941-922-1615 24 Hour Emergency Service - 1 Hour Response Guaranteed

Hear for the Holidays

Amongst the immortals of Zionist history is Dr. Thomas O. Hecht, whose life and achievements co-mingled with Ben-Gurion, Mother Golda, Begin, Shamir and Dayan. Dr. Hecht’s insights into Jewish history span the entirety of the life of the State of Israel. This is Dr. Hecht’s inaugural address of a lecture series at the Al Katz Center, which will enlighten and inspire you, as he leads us from the grips of the Holocaust to the heights of worldwide Jewish leadership today. Join us at 713 South Orange Avenue, Burns Square, Sarasota, at 5:30 p.m. for the presentation and at 6:30 pm. for the reception. Cost: $12 per adult; $6 per student; light kosher meal will be served; students encouraged to come. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

wednesday, january 8 Newcomers Reception Sponsored by

New to Sarasota-Manatee? New to Federation? Please join us from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at the Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Blvd. This is a free event, but reservations are required. Visit www.jfedsrq.org/events.aspx. For more information, contact Ilene Fox at ifox@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2111.

inform Hearing well is vital to connecting with loved ones during this special time of the year.

EngagE

If you are experiencing a loss, Center for Hearing is offering a risk-free two-week test drive of the newest hearing device technology this holiday season. As our way of saying “thanks” for stopping by and allowing us to introduce you to better hearing, you will receive a $25 to Olive Garden.* Offer expires 12/31 *Two-week instrument trial required to receive gift card. One per person/household. We are not affiliated with Olive Garden. Their trademark is owned by Darden Inc.

www.SarasotaLovesIsrael.com The Robert & Esther Heller Israel advocacy Initiative

CALL TODAY! 941.379.3277

w w w.marlowemd.com

5432 Bee Ridge Rd Ste 150, Sarasota, FL 34233

• Get the facts about Israel • Learn how to respond to anti-Semitism • Advocate to local government and media

“Fighting anti-Semitism and the movement to delegitimize israel.”

ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD 13B December 2013

December 2013

13B

12 most amazing Israeli medical advances Israel is a powerhouse in medical innovation. Here are a dozen standouts from a field with many exciting, game-changing candidates.

By Abigail Klein Leichman, ISRAEL21c, www.israel21c.org

sraeli ingenuity is responsible for some of the world’s most amazing medical advances. Whether they’re futuristic, such as Given Imaging’s PillCam capsule endoscopy or Itamar Medical’s fingertip monitors for sleep disorders and cardiac issues – or cleverly simple, such as First Care Products’ Emergency Bandage – blue-and-white inventions are changing the face of healthcare in hospitals, doctors’ offices, homes and even battlefields worldwide. “It’s almost a cliché to say Israel is an excellent place for medical innovation,” says Eran Perry, managing director at Israel Health Care Ventures (IHCV), one of the largest venture capital funds in the country. “But if you look at [global] statistics, it’s evident – from total expenditure on civilian R&D, where we are ranked first; to human infrastructure and entrepreneurship, where we rank in the top five. You can see the results in patents. We are first in the world for medical device patents per capita, and second in Europe for bio-pharma.” About 1,000 Israeli companies are in healthcare or life-science products, including 700 in medical devices. Approximately half are already generating revenue. “There has been an ecosystem created for life sciences, so these 1,000 companies don’t exist in a vacuum but in an environment where they have access to everything they need – engineering, labs, regulatory consultants, manufacturing consultants,” Perry tells ISRAEL21c. “Many young companies can be a one-man show until they get to the clinical trial stage, relying on this excellent ecosystem around them. You can see Israeli companies reaching the same stage as American ones with a fraction of the capital investment.” IHCV reviews 200 to 300 new opportunities per year. Perry estimates that 60 to 70 Israeli healthcare companies are founded annually. Proceeds from mergers and acquisitions involving Israeli healthcare companies totaled around $1 billion in the past year. That’s why ISRAEL21c had a hard time narrowing the field to this top 12 list of the most significant recent Israeli contributions to the medical field. We have chosen products already on, or very near, the market. Here are ISRAEL21c’s top 12 Israeli medical innovations, in alphabetical order. 1. ApiFix System corrects severe curvature of the spine (scoliosis) and minimizes risks, scar size, complica-

tions, recovery time and cost. The miniature ratchet mechanism has successfully been implanted in 15 patients so far. Limited sales of the product have begun while clinical trials are in the last stages. 2. Argo Medical Technologies’ ReWalk robotic exoskeleton was featured on the hit TV show Glee and enabled paraplegic runners in London and Tel Aviv to complete marathons. The ReWalk Rehabilitation model currently is used by patients in rehab centers from New York to Dusseldorf. ReWalk Personal, for everyday home use, is available throughout Europe and awaiting FDA clearance in the United States. 3. Gamida Cell is developing stemcell therapy products to treat blood cancers, solid tumors, non-malignant blood diseases such as sickle-cell anemia, autoimmune diseases and genetic metabolic diseases. On September 9, the first patient was successfully transplanted at Duke University Medical Center (North Carolina) in the second Phase I/II study of NiCord, Gamida’s experimental treatment for blood cancers. 4. GI View Aer-O-Scope disposable colorectal cancer screening device, now in U.S. trials, will make lifesaving colonoscopy screenings cheaper, safer and more accessible worldwide. The self-navigating, flexible Aer-O-Scope removes the risk of perforating the colon, provides superior imaging and can be used by a trained nurse or technician so a gastroenterologist does not have to be present. 5. IceCure Medical’s IceSense3 has been used by U.S. doctors since 2011 to remove benign breast lumps in a 10-minute ultrasound-guided procedure that penetrates the tumor and engulfs it with ice. The system is being clinically tested over the next few years against small malignant breast tumors as well. The procedure is done in a doctor’s office, clinic or breast center, and the patient can get up and leave afterward with no recovery period or post-care. 6. InSightec’s ExAblate OR uses MRI-guided focused ultrasound to destroy tumors and uterine fibroid cysts

For daily news stories related to Israel & the Jewish world, visit the Federation’s website at www.jfedsrq.org.

Skin cancer affects

1 in 5 Americans.

Skin cancer has a better than

99% cure rate if detected and treated early

Don’t wait! Schedule your skin exam today

without surgery. The company has begun a Phase III trial of its next product, ExAblate Neuro, to cure essential tremor – a common movement disorder – using the same non-invasive technology to significantly lower risk of infection, hemorrhage and brain damage. 7. IonMed’s BioWeld1 bonds surgical incisions using cold plasma – instead of painful stitches, staples or glue – within minutes, sealing and dis-

continued on next page

B e H e a l t h y Adult & Pediatric Skin Exams MOHS Surgery Skin Cancer Screenings Wart & Mole Removal Hair & Nail Disorders Acne & Rosacea

L o o k G o o d Facial Fillers Botox ® & Dysport ® Photo-Rejuvenation Sclerotherapy Laser Treatments Facials & Peels Anti-Aging Treatments

Fellow of the American Society of MOHS Surgery and A.O.B.D Board Certified Dermatologist & Dermatologic Surgeon, Bradley Abrams, D.O. is highly recognized in treating skin cancers and diseases of the skin. “At Abrams Dermatology we understand the need for both men and women to have a healthy skin and the importance to look and feel good.” Bradley Abrams, D.O

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

3328 Bee Ridge Rd

941.926.2300 abramsderm.com

Sheryl Wilson, ARNP-C

Catherine Deans, LE

MEDICARE, CARE CREDIT & MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED

THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.

14B

ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

December 2013

Israeli medical advances...continued from previous page infecting the wound with minimal scarring and recovery time. The CE Mark is expected any day, with European sales and the U.S. FDA approval process starting in early 2014. 8. Nano Retina’s Bio-Retina, a tiny implantable device inserted into the retina in a 30-minute procedure, turns into an artificial retina that melds to the neurons in the eye. Activated by special eyeglasses, the device transforms natural light into an electrical impulse that stimulates neurons to send images to the brain. The prototype is advancing quickly through clinical trials. Rescue Adoption Education Resource Center

Save a Life, Adopt a Cat. Cat Depot Supply and Gift Store Open Daily 2542 17th St., Sarasota, Florida 34234 Ph. 941.366.2404 www.catdepot.org

9. NanoPass Technologies’ MicronJet is a unique, FDA-approved single-use needle for painless delivery of vaccines into the skin using semiconductor technology. The product has been proven to generate superior immune response with less vaccine, because it does not go past the skin level. Licensed last year to Janssen Pharmaceuticals, MicronJet is being used by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in a large trial of polio vaccine for infants in Southeast Asia. 10. OrSense’s NBM-200 non-invasive monitor is relied upon by blood donation centers in 40 countries for continuous and spot measuring of potential donors’ hemoglobin level and other blood parameters. This device eliminates the need for finger pricking as well as biologically hazardous equipment and waste. Studies show that donors screened this way are more likely to become repeat blood donors. OrSense recently completed successful trials using its technology to detect hemorrhage and anemia in pregnant women. 11. Surpass Medical’s NeuroEndoGraft flow diverters redirect blood flow from a brain aneurysm (a bulge in a weak artery wall), so that a stable clot can form and the potentially fatal aneurysm no longer is in danger of rupturing. The family of devices has the CE Mark and has been used successfully in dozens of patients. U.S. medical device manufacturer Stryker acquired Surpass for $100 million in October 2012.

Faith to Faith

Christians anD Jews Working TogeTher For israel Church of hope, 1560 Wendell kent rd, sarasota

12. VitalGo Systems’ Total Lift bed is the world’s only hospital-grade bed that can elevate a patient from a lying to a fully standing position – and all points in between – for treatment and transfer with no lifting required of the caregiver. Two major companies are distributing Total Lift in the acute-care

and home-care markets in the United States. Abigail Klein Leichman is a writer and associate editor at ISRAEL21c. Prior to moving to Israel in 2007, she was a specialty writer and copy editor at a newspaper in New Jersey and has freelanced for a variety of periodicals since 1984.

Florida and Israel sign research & development agreement

n Tuesday, October 29, Florida Governor Rick Scott and Israeli Consul General Chaim Shacham signed a Memorandum of Understanding between Florida and Israel to support research, development and commercialization of projects related to aerospace and other technology sectors. Florida’s $1 million will be matched dollar-for-dollar by Israel, to create a $2 million joint research fund. Governor Scott said, “Our Florida Families First Budget committed

$1 million in recurring funds to further Florida’s longstanding economic partnership with Israel. The memorandum of understanding we signed today creates a targeted investment that will increase Florida’s role as a hub for global commerce, deepen the Florida-Israel relationship, and create jobs and opportunities for Florida’s families.” Consul General Shacham, stated “the MOU agreement highlights, once again, how the strong ties between the people of Florida and Israel have the power to create vital economic benefits for both states – especially economic growth for Israel, and jobs for Florida. There are enormous untapped opportunities between Florida and Israel. The new MOU will cerChris Snow of Space Florida, Lisa McClaskey of the Israeli Consulate, tainly create a ‘winIsraeli Consul General Chaim Shacham, Governor Scott, win’ situation for both Brent & Debbie Sembler of the Sembler Company, sides.” Michael Sevi of the Governor’s Office

HERO OR TRAITOR THURSDAY JANUARY 23 7:00-9:30PM 8350 N Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34243 “If you know the name Rezso Kasztner, you won’t need any encouragement to see ‘Killing Kasztner: The Jew Who Dealt With Nazis.’ If you don’t, that is even more reason to see this documentary on the strange and compelling life and death of one of the most morally complex figures to come out of the Holocaust.” Kenneth Turan, LA Times

Tuesday

February 18 th, 2014

TICKETS: $5 • RSVP REQUIRED

7:00 - 9:00 PM

hear the experiences of internationally known leaders with interfaith work and leave the evening with specific knowledge about how to be the best advocate for israel.

RSVP ONLINE @ WWW.JFEDSRQ.ORG/EVENTS.ASPX SponSored By

Please join us for a panel discussion about Christians and Jews working together for israel. we both have such strong ties to the land and her people. Let’s break down religious barriers and come together on common ground. Our love for israel. Free event: suggested donation of $10 rsVP to: Jennifer new 941.552.6304 or jnew@jfedsrq.org

For more information, please contact Jessi Sheslow at 941-343-2109 or jsheslow@fedsrq.org

Holocaust Survivor, Rifka Glatz, will join us after the movie to share her story. 65 years later, Rifka Glatz can still see the guard towers at the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, the barbed wire, the German shepherds awaiting commands. And she knows she would have died there were it not for one man: Rezso Kasztner.

QUESTIONS? Contact Orna Nissan @ 941.552.6305 or onissan@jfedsrq.org

THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.

ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD 15B December 2013

BRIEFS

Israeli-Greek joint military exercises have included defending offshore natural gas platforms. (Allison Good, Daily Beast)

ISRAELIS LIVING LONG, HAPPY LIVES, STUDY FINDS ISRAEL HELPING MAKE Israelis are living longer, happier lives, NEVADA’S DESERT BLOOM according to the 2013 Statistical Abstract of Israel recently released by the Central Bureau of Statistics. 88% of Israelis say they are happy with their lives, compared with only 83% percent in 2002. 60% are also satisfied with their financial situation. Life expectancy has risen significantly in the past decade and is now 79.9 years for males born in 2012, and 83.6 for females. (Lazar Berman, Times of Israel)

“Over the last year the Southern Nevada Water Authority has engaged with Israel’s national water company, Meko-

December 2013 rot, focusing specifically on water quality and water security, waste water and recycled water, hydrology, and joint research and technological development,” said Uri Resnick, deputy consul general of Israel to the Southwest U.S. Governor Brian Sandoval planned to lead a travel mission to Israel’s Negev in October to learn more about how Israeli technology can help rejuvenate

15B

Nevada’s farming industry. (Jspace)

ISRAEL RANKS 11TH HAPPIEST IN THE WORLD

Israelis are once again among the happiest people in the world. The annual World Happiness Report, a 156-nation survey published by the United Nations

briefs...continued on next page

ISRAELI MATERNAL HEALTH VIDEOS A BIG HIT IN ARAB WORLD

Six months ago, Clalit Health Services, an Israeli health maintenance organization, uploaded a series of YouTube training videos in Arabic for the Israeli Arab community on breastfeeding, pregnancy monitoring, early detection of diseases, preparation for routine checkups, and physical therapy. Recently, Clalit officials discovered that out of 1.1 million views, only 45,000 were from Israel, while the rest were from neighboring Arab countries. Saudi Arabia lead with 560,166 views, followed by Egypt, Iraq, Morocco, Algeria and Jordan. (Yaron Kelner, Ynet News)

Introducing InspiredLiving at Sarasota.

ISRAELIS SEND AID AND CLOTHING TO SYRIAN REFUGEES

“There are a number of Israeli citizens and organizations involved with aid distribution to Syrian refugees, which have sent hundreds of tons of humanitarian aid to Jordan,” said Dr. Nir Boms from Haifa University. Boms is involved with an Israeli group called Hand in Hand with Syrian Refugees, initiated in early 2013. In May, Hand in Hand sent a truckload with 5,000 winter jackets and sweaters, along with 1,000 pairs of shoes and toys, with the aid of Operation Blessing, an American Christian charity. An Israeli mom from northern Israel spearheaded the distribution project, collecting thousands of clothing items and raising money to make the project happen. (Anav Silverman, Huffington Post)

Finding dedicated, quality care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia has been a challenge. Until now.

ISRAEL STRENGTHENS TIES WITH CYPRUS, GREECE

Introducing InspiredLiving at Sarasota, memory care assisted living that offers families peace of mind as their loved ones enjoy meaningful days and inspiring care.

Cyprus is seeking to exploit its own natural gas discoveries, but to make the export of liquefied natural gas (LNG) financially lucrative, Cyprus also needs to receive gas from Israel’s Leviathan field. As an export option for Israel, Cyprus is a strategic ally that would serve as a gateway to Europe. A Cyprus-based group that includes the Public Power Corporation of Greece plans to implement the EuroAsia Interconnector project, a subsea power cable linking Israel, Cyprus and Greece. That agreement, inked in August, provides for trilateral cooperation on the protection of natural gas fields. Annual

ys. a D l u f g n i Mean nspiring Care. I

Memory Care Assisted Living

This is the care, dignity and lifestyle your loved one and your family deserve.

Get inspired. Call us today for more information or to schedule a tour. 941-404-1034

InspiredLivingSM at Sarasota

InspiredLivingSarasota.com 1900 Phillippi Shores Dr. | Sarasota, FL 34231

ALF License Pending

16B

December 2013

ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

briefs...continued from previous page Sustainable Development Solutions Network, slotted Israel as the 11th happiest country. Denmark, Norway and Switzerland led the pack. The U.S. scored just 17th on the poll, Canada took the sixth spot, and Togo was in last place. The report ranks happiness based on a ‘life evaluation score’ – a number between 0-10 – that measures aspects such as life expectancy, family and job security, freedom to make life choices, and lack of government corruption. The index was a collaborative effort of the University of British Columbia, the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, the London School of Economics, and Columbia University’s Earth Institute. Israelis ranked the happiest in the region as compared to neighboring populations like Egypt (130), Jordan (74), Iran (115) and Lebanon (97). The 2013 World Happiness Report hopes to guide policymakers to take the well-being of citizens into account when making decisions. “There is now

a rising worldwide demand that policy be more closely aligned with what really matters to people as they themselves characterize their well-being,” Jeffrey D. Sachs, director of Columbia University’s Earth Institute said in a statement. (Viva Sarah Press, ISRAEL21c)

ISRAEL: WORLD’S NO. 2 STARTUP ECOSYSTEM

According to the Startup Genome Project, Israel has the No. 2 startup ecosystem in the world. It has more startups per capita than anywhere else, and it has 61 companies on NASDAQ – more than Europe, Japan, Korea and China combined. (Forbes)

THE CUBOX-I, ISRAEL’S $45 PC MARVEL

SolidRun, a start-up headed by two Israeli Arabs, has developed a $45 PC that can do almost anything a full-size PC can do – with all design and manufacturing done in Israel. The CuBox-I weighs 91 grams (0.2 lb), with a size of 2x2x2 inches and is

Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva WINTER SEmESTER 2014

“EAT”IOLOGY: THE JEWS’ RELATIONSHIP TO FOOD

Fridays, Starting January 3, 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM (Eight Weeks) This course will embody biblical and historical perspectives on eating, the mitzvot and minhagim (customs) associated with food, and the cultural development of differing cuisine for various occasions. It will also cover the many Jewish ethnic variations: Jewish-American; Israeli; Mediterranean (Moroccan, Italian, Sephardic); Eastern European (Russian, Polish, Italian) South American as well as oriental cuisine. (This is not a cooking course but a buffet of ethnic pride.)

WHERE IS THE JEWISH-AMERICAN COMMUNITY HEADED?

Mondays, Starting January 6, 4:15 PM – 5:15 PM (Eight Weeks) This course will review and analyze the current data on the ever-changing Jewish-American. It is a demographic and sociological study of contemporary Jewry with implications of the Pew Survey of Jewish Americans on the status of denominationalism, religion, group pride, affiliation and the future of American Jewry. What will be the impact of generational differences?

THE HISTORY OF ANTI-SEMITISM

Tuesdays, Starting January 7, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM (Eight Weeks) From our beginning as an ancient people to the present day, anti-Semitism has been an issue that has devastated Jews wherever they sojourned. Why? How did it happen? In every age our people confronted it. We’ll study that history and how the Jew has survived in every era.

HOW JEWS MOURN: PSYCHOLOGY OF OUR PRACTICES

Tuesdays, Starting January 7, 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM (Eight Weeks) This survey course will begin with the various mourning practices emanating from the Bible and Talmud. We’ll study the history and evolution of changes in customs and practices to the present day: keriah, tahara, burial, funerals, cremation, Kaddish, shiva etiquette, shloshim, unveilings and Yizkor. Preparing for the end of life is a hesed, an act of righteousness.

All courses are $50 – Registration Deadline: December 31, 2013 Classes are held on the Campus of the Jewish Federation, 580 McIntosh Rd. in Sarasota. To register or seek more information, please contact Marden Paru, Dean and Rosh Yeshiva; at 941.379.5655 or marden.paru@gmail.com. Please make checks payable to the Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva and mail to Marden Paru, 2729 Goodwood Court, Sarasota, FL 34235. NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS: The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and other schooladministered programs. The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva is a 501(c)3 non-profit agency. It is funded, in part, by a grant from The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

especially useful to commercial users who want to stream music or video to TVs for displays. “Our goal is to supply anyone, anywhere, who needs one with a lowcost, high-capability computer that has a low carbon footprint and can do just about anything the average person would need,” said Kossay Omary, CEO of SolidRun. (David Shamah, Times of Israel)

HONG KONG MAGNATE TO DONATE $130 MILLION TO ISRAEL’S TECHNION

Hong Kong magnate Li Ka-shing said he will donate $130 million to Israel’s leading engineering university, the Technion, to help establish a technology institute and innovation center at Shantou University in China’s Guangdong Province. Li, who had invested in Waze, a traffic-mapping start-up recently purchased by Google for $1.1 billion, said he will use proceeds from the acquisition for the Technion donation. (Joshua Mitnick, Wall Street Journal)

THE LEGACY OF THE YOM KIPPUR WAR – 40 YEARS LATER

The Yom Kippur War erupted on October 6, 1973, when Egyptian and Syrian forces surprised and overran Israeli positions. The following three weeks of fighting were brutal, the scale monumental. The offensive was eventually blunted and beaten back to an Egyptian enclave surrounded by Israeli forces. Cairo came within Israel’s striking

range. 80,000 Egyptian soldiers nearly surrendered for lack of water, and those soldiers and Cairo were saved by a lastminute application of American might and statecraft. Tens of thousands of Syrian troops, spearheaded by divisions of Sovietmade tanks, punched through Israeli defenses on the Golan Heights. They were stopped by numerically inferior Israeli forces and compelled to fall back on Damascus, which was also threatened by IDF guns. Each year there is an outpouring of public grief over the battlefield deaths of more than 2,500 Israeli soldiers – the equivalent, in current per capita terms, of 230,000 Americans – and the maiming of vastly more. Israel’s enemies saw how, while enjoying total surprise and overwhelming advantages in men and material, Arab armies still could not prevail, could not even avert defeat. Despairing of destroying Israel by conventional means, its adversaries turned to terror and delegitimization, which have similarly failed. (Michael Oren, former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. (2009-2013), New Republic)

NO BRAIN DRAIN – ISRAEL SIMPLY HAS TOO MANY BRAINS

The way research in the exact sciences is conducted nowadays, researchers are attracted to clusters of scientists working in their area of interest regardless of national boundaries. It is not easy for Israel to compete

briefs...continued on page 18B

For daily news stories related to Israel & the Jewish world, visit the Federation’s website at www.jfedsrq.org.

l Calling Arsl Choriste

rECruiTinG FOr

April 3, 2014 Van Wezel performing Arts Hall

rEHEArSAlS lATE SunDAy AFTErnOOnS, STArTinG JAnuAry 12 Church of the redeemer, parish Hall, palm Avenue, Sarasota

CAll

linda Buxbaum, 896-9130 or Anne Moe, 735-4606

Help create an outstanding musical and cultural event for the community. Come sing with us! All parts needed — 150 singers needed! Sing Ernst Bloch’s Sacred Service, Broadway favorites by Weill, Bernstein, Gershwin and others along with a 50-member orchestra and be conducted by world-class choral director, Matthew lazar. Soloists include Metropolitan Opera soloist Jason Stearns, Cantor Jeff Weber, Cantor Cliff Abramson, Cantor riselle Bains and Cantor Deborah Jacobson.

This event is sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Sarasota Manatee, the rabbinic Assembly of Sarasota Manatee and supported by our temples and synagogues.

18B

December 2013

ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD briefs...continued from page 16B

1646 10th Way (Off Orange, N of 10th St)

Sarasota, FL 34236

PURCHASE TICKETS @

It is April 1865 and the Civil War has ended. A wounded Jewish Confederate soldier discovers his family home is nearly destroyed and only two former slaves remain. As they reunite to celebrate Passover, the annual holiday of freedom from bondage, they uncover a series of secrets that bind them together but, ultimately, might cost each man his freedom. A compelling, thoughtprovoking drama.