The Jewish News - December 2015 by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

HappyChanukah SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2015

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

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Community Focus Jewish Interest Israel & the Jewish World Commentary Focus on Youth Life Cycle Jewish Happenings

TKO Club members play bingo at Kobernick House C

Dr. Steven Derﬂer presents the Club Fed Lecture Series

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THIS CHANUKAH,

Volume 45, Number 12

share your light WITH THE JEWISH COMMUNITY AND THE WORLD.

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The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee wishes you and your family a Happy Chanukah bright with joy and rich memories. May you find meaning in the miracles of Chanukah. As you celebrate the Festival of Lights, may your home be bright with happiness love.Jeweler May the spin Theand Family 14276 Name: ________________________________________________ Invoice Ref #: ________________ of the dreidel, the aroma of latkes enhance the warmth and glow of each candle you light.

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December 2015

FEDERATION NEWS

Jerusalem Day observed at New Life Church By Rabbi Howard A. Simon

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$6,655 for 13 students  Temple Emanu-El received $13,045 for 26 students  Temple Sinai received $9,790 for 24 students Susan Kittner Huntting, director of Temple Sinai’s Religious School in Sarasota, thanks the Federation and the lay leaders “for making the decision to directly support synagogue-based learning through scholarships to needy families. We consider it an expression of confidence in what we are doing for both children and families, and appreciate the partnership we can have over this important work.”

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By Orna Nissan

December 7, 2015

TED I M I L S I G SEATIN

he Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee recently awarded a total of $43,150 to 102 students in the Sarasota-Manatee region toward the cost of religious school tuition. The initiative is part of our need-based Religious School Scholarship Program. The following schools received funds:  Chabad of Bradenton received $3,385 for 13 students  Chabad of Sarasota received $4,450 for 10 students  Chabad of Venice received $5,825 for 16 students  Temple Beth Sholom received

Rosh Hashanah luncheon B honors Holocaust survivors

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A minimum gift of $54 to the development efforts of The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee is required.

have been blessed to share in many a year. In Israel’s time of concern and worry, what our brothers and sisters need is the support of Jews and non-Jews throughout the world. There are no more positive supporters of Israel than the congregants of New Life Church. The outpouring of care and concern for Israel, for Jerusalem, and for the men, women and children who make up the population of Israel is beautiful to see and inspiring to share. In my remarks, I shared Rona’s and my love for this congregation, their dedicated leaders, and for our dear friends, Pastors Hope and Randy. I said, “If I ever thought of coming out of retirement, which Rona would not hear of, the place I would love to minister is this magnificent church and its wonderful congregants.” Sharing this service was a day like none other. Would that everyone, Jew and non-Jew alike, felt so deeply for Eretz Yisrael. What a wonderful world that would be.

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n Sunday, October 4, my wife Rona and I had the distinct honor and pleasure to be invited by Pastors Randy and Hope Burt to join their New Life Church congregation in celebration of Jerusalem Day. Our dear friends, the leaders of this friendly and loving Venice church, asked if I would deliver the sermon at both morning services. Both Pastor Randy and Pastor Hope had joined me on The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s second interfaith mission to Israel. They came home even more devoted to Israel and to the Jewish people than ever before. Under their leadership they have taken several congregational trips to Israel and plan another mission in 2016. To sit amid these pro-Israel congregants, to join them in song, proclaiming our love for Israel, and to pray on a most private level for personal concerns – for one’s health, for one’s family and for one’s friends – was the most inspirational experience Rona and I

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pared a delicious Rosh Hashanah feast. Klezmania on the Gulf provided the entertainment. They began performing as a group in 2005 when Elisa Miro assembled a group of friends who had been playing various styles of music, including klezmer, jazz, bluegrass and classical. Principal members are Elisa on violin and Dr. Bob Felman on clarinet. The combination of clarinet and violin produce the traditional klezmer sound, and Elisa and Bob play in perfect harmony. We also shared updates on reparations and upcoming programs for area survivors. Thank you to all who made this possible. Our esteemed guests were appreciative of the special celebration just for them, remarking what a wonderful time they had.

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he newly renovated social hall of Temple Emanu-El was filled with smiles as Holocaust survivors and their guests enjoyed a Rosh Hashanah luncheon event on Thursday, September 10. This program was sponsored and planned by Jewish Family & Children’s Service of the Suncoast’s Jewish Healing Program, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Community Services, and Claims Conference – The Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany. Nearly 60 Jewish Holocaust survivors attended – many with a guest – and enjoyed the festivities, food and friendship. Rabbi Brenner Glickman delivered an insightful d’var Torah about the shofar, its usage and significance. Brooklyn Catering and Provisions pre-

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Lisa Molloy, Marlene Wain, Debbie Cusick, Jan Alston and Orna Nissan at the luncheon

FEDERATION NEWS

December 2015

Keeping the memory alive: “Milk and Honey” honors Holocaust survivors By Joan Lowery

as surely they had so much to teach us about resilience, strength, courage and the will and capacity to live and love again. In 2006 I joined the Florida Holocaust Museum’s Survivor Testimony Oral History Project. A small group of volunteers from our area were trained in the Shoah Foundation’s method for interviewing survivors. Through this project it was a great honor to learn about the survivors’ stories, histories and struggles, and to come to understand how they managed to go on to lead full and productive lives – despite all they had endured. These video interviews are being used in many ways, including by the Florida Holocaust Museum and Yad Vashem for exhibits and archival purposes, by universities who are digitizing and organizing these testimonies for historical purposes, and by the families of survivors to learn more about their loved ones who, in some cases, never shared their full stories with them. With the launch of the “Milk and Honey” program on WSRQ 98.9 FM,

we have another golden opportunity to learn from our area’s survivors, Righteous Among the Nations heroes, and second-generation family members. Our radio interviews will also be made available in video format to the Florida Holocaust Museum, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s Holocaust Education Project, and for possible future video documentary purposes. Shaun Greenspan of TriForce Pictures is volunteering his time, equipment and creative energy to shooting the video and editing the

TKO Club members play bingo at Kobernick House

audio for our monthly radio programs. Our survivors have amazing stories to share. We hope that you will join us to hear them and to celebrate their journeys of survival. Joan Lowery, of Lowery Communications, is the interviewer/producer for the “Milk and Honey” monthly Survivor Testimonies segment. Her background includes television and radio talk show hosting, reporting and producing. “Milk & Honey” airs on WSRQ Talk Radio, 98.9 FM, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Sundays. The program, hosted by Jessi Sheslow, focuses on three main topics: Israel, anti-Semi-

tism and Jewish culture. Each month, an episode is devoted to the Holocaust. For more information, call Jessi Sheslow at 941.343.2109. The Holocaust Speakers Bureau, sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, offers a powerful educational opportunity to hear from Holocaust survivors and their offspring. For booking, contact Anne Stein, Speakers Bureau coordinator, at 941.923.6470 or luvhula@gmail. com. For general information about the Federation’s Holocaust programs, contact Orna Nissan at 941.552.6305 or onissan@jfedsrq.org.

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s a child I was horrified by the blue-inked concentration camp numbers I saw tattooed deep into my adult neighbors’ arms. If I came home from elementary school and didn’t find my mother in the house, chances were that I could find her across the street, comforting our neighbor who suffered from severe flashbacks, recalling her time at Auschwitz and the Joan Lowery unimaginable pain of having her children ripped away from her forever. I grew up in a neighborhood in the Bronx where there were several Holocaust survivor families from the same or close-by towns, villages and cities. I slowly learned that my great grandmother, great aunt and other family members who lived in Poland were never heard from again as a result of that unbearable war. So, as a young child, I became deeply imprinted by the question: “How could such senseless and cruel-beyond-imagination acts be committed by the Nazis and their loyal supporters?” As I child, I made a promise to myself to do whatever I could to never, ever allow this to occur again to Jews or others. After growing up and moving far away from the old neighborhood, I often thought about my amazing neighbors and wondered how in the world they found the courage and willpower to survive – to make some sort of peace with the brutality and tragedy of their pasts, create new families, contribute to society and find new meaning and even joy in their lives. I often wished that I had gotten to know them better

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n Sunday, October 18, I had December 3. We will be assisting with the opportunity to volunteer in JFCS’s Adopt-a-Family program. my community, thanks to The Hope to see you there! Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Man. atee. With the Federation’s new TKO (Tikkun Olam) Club, several other ateens and I visited Kobernick House, oa senior community, and played bingo -with the residents. Before the event, I wasn’t really s sure what to expect. I was even a little nervous to interact with the elders, be-cause I didn’t know if we would have lanything in common. But what I exyperienced was the opposite. I truly enjoyed being able to spend time with Teen bingo callers Nathanial Serebro and Joey Marguglio -those older and wiser than me, and hear athe many stories they had to share. One of the most memorable moe nments of the night was when I talked with an amazing woman who was 102 years old! She told me about her life and where she was from. She also expressed her excitement as Julian Read with Kobernick residents she hoped to win a round of bingo. I look forward to going back and visiting Kobernick House, as well as Anchin Pavilion, and spending time with the wonderful residents there. The next event for the Federation’s Tikkun Olam Club will take place on Thursday, Gabriella Hazan with a Kobernick resident

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December 2015

FEDERATION NEWS

My three days at the National Israeli-American Conference By Orna Nissan

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he second annual National Israeli-American Conference took place October 17-19 in Washington, D.C. The event, initiated by the Israeli-American Council (IAC), brought together more than 1,000 Israeli-American community and business leaders, media personalities, academics, politicians and diplomats from throughout the United States. I felt privileged to be among the participants, and felt greatly encouraged by the topics discussed both at the plenary sessions and the group workshops. The speakers addressed a variety of topics, including the current situation in the Middle East, education in the face of renewed anti-Semitism, combating the Palestinian BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) propaganda machine, and the subject that stands close to my heart – the issue of the “double identity” of the American Israeli. As a first-time attendee I was delighted to participate in a gathering of like-minded people motivated by our commitment to Israel advocacy, meaningful support and networking in the Jewish communities across the nation. The attendees were energized with a sense of mission, excited to meet, connect and exchange views and opinions, and learn from each other’s experience. What an inspiring conference it was! For me, as an Israeli, it was particularly heartwarming and a special treat to see rival Israeli politicians reach out to each other across the political divide, as I observed the head of the Israeli Labor party, Itzhak Herzog, in relaxed friendly conversation with Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked during a break. As I acquainted myself with the extended activities of the Israeli-American Council, I found that the threeday conference was a true reflection of its stated goals. Over half a million Israeli-Americans live in the United States today. As a vital component of American society, we play a major role in social activism, academia, culture and innovation. The IAC is the largest Israeli-American organization in the United States, and its effectiveness and success is the direct result of its ability to organize, activate and engage the Israeli-American community nationwide. The IAC strives to achieve these goals through programs and events for all ages, as well as by empowering and sponsoring a wide array of non-profit organizations within the Israeli-American community. At least six workshops addressed aspects of the Israeli-American “double identity” phenomenon, including

one leaves Israel, one is called a yored or “one who descends.” As if this terminology, with its negative connotations, is not enough to make one feel guilty, for many years the people who emigrated from Israel were viewed almost as deserters from the national struggle. Today, as the title of the workshop mentioned above illustrates, we Israelis who live in America are viewed as Neches, as something of value, something that brings joy and pride. Israel sees the Israelis in the United States as “ambassadors” and “advocates” for Israel. In fact, in 2014, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a board meeting with IAC leadership regarding Israeli Americans: “You are an asset to the State of Israel. We need you on the frontlines of BDS.” Orna Nissan (2nd from left) with other IAC participants With time, and in to America, we were convinced that view of my work at The Jewish Fedwe would stay only for a few years eration of Sarasota-Manatee, which to experience this great country, after entails Holocaust studies and Israeli which, we would return to Israel. That advocacy events, while also being imwas 20 years ago, because, as they mersed in the culture of my American say, life is what happens while you are home, I feel that my Israeli and Amerimaking other plans. can identities are resolved. I don’t have Perhaps the names of our two sons, to live my life as a wandering Jew, sitTomer and Daniel, best illustrate the ting on packed suitcases. I don’t have changes we went through in the United to feel divided in my loyalties. I feel States, not only in our material circonfident that the interests of my two cumstances, but also conceptually. We homes are overlapping. This was pernamed our firstborn a typical Israeli haps the most important lesson my sabra name, Tomer, just as our parents participation at the National Israelihad given us typical sabra names when American Conference has given me. we were born in Israel. Tomer, like his I was disappointed to read an arparents, has to spell his name when inticle on the conference in the Jewish troducing himself and sometimes needs Journal entitled “Notes from Washingto explain the origin of his name. Years ton: The Schizophrenic Israeli-Amerilater, when our second son was born, can Council.” Without discussing the I chose to give him a name that was article in detail, I would like to point more typically associated with Jewish out that perhaps the term “double idenor American names – Daniel. Unlike tity” begs the pop-psych comparison his brother, Daniel can travel anywhere to schizophrenia, a term which will without having to spell or explain his surely be given derogatory meaning name. (As I write these lines, “Tomer” not only by friendly reviewers of our is automatically underlined for spelling conference, but also by our ideologicorrection, just like “Orna” or “Ofer,” cal enemies at BDS. Therefore, I sugbut Daniel is accepted without correcgest that from now on we refer to our tion. Try it!) phenomenon as “dual identity” instead Was our second son’s name proof of “double identity.” Not only do we of a compromise we made in view of avoid the negative connotations of beour changing status? Were we now less ing or behaving “double,” but, in fact, Israeli and more American? “dual identity” reflects the logical exIn fact, it was not only we who tension of our legal status – as Ameriwere changing. The perception of the cans with dual citizenship. Israeli emigrant was also changing. Orna Nissan is the director of HoloThe workshop entitled “From Yordim caust Education & Israel Programs at to Neches: Israeli-Americans in the IsThe Jewish Federation of Sarasotaraeli Press” highlighted this fact. When Manatee. one immigrates to Israel one makes aliya, one “ascends” to Israel. When “Navigating a Double Identity: Israeli and/or American?,” “From Yordim to Neches: Israeli-Americans in the Israeli Press,” Israeli-American – Early Childhood Education Workshop: Parts 1and 2,” Preserving Israeli-American Identity through the Generations” and “Israeli-Americans in the U.S.: Bridging Gaps, Seizing Opportunities.” I would like to briefly share my personal experience of the “double identity” phenomenon. Like most young Israeli couples, when my husband Ofer and I came

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December 2015

FEDERATION NEWS

Violence spreads in Israel

By Rabbi Howard A. Simon, co-Chair of The Robert and Esther Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative

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 45, Number 12 December 2015 44 pages USPS Permit No. 167 January 2016 Issue Deadlines: Editorial: November 27, 2015 Advertising: December 1, 2015 PRESIDENT Patti Wertheimer EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Howard Tevlowitz COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR Linda Lipson MANAGING EDITOR Ted Epstein DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Isaac Azerad ADVERTISING SALES Robin Leonardi PROOFREADERS Adeline Silverman, Harold Samtur, Bryna Tevlowitz, Deb Bryan, Sandra Hayden, Stacey Edelman MIMI AND JOSEPH J. EDLIN JOURNALISM INTERN Marinna Okawa 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. OPINIONS printed in The Jewish News of Sarasota-Manatee do not necessarily reflect those of The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee, 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. 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 email (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.

s you read these words it is my come from Gaza in an attack on Issincere hope that the problems rael. The result of this has been Israeli plaguing Israel at the present planes bombing sites in Gaza. moment will have dissipated and been The problems are made more diffiput to rest. Hopefully, peace will have cult because there is no clearly identifireturned to Israel, the West Bank and able enemy. Half of the attackers come Gaza. Right now, as I write from east Jerusalem these words, problems have and the rest from the arisen everywhere. Since West Bank. The vioMahmoud Abbas stated at a lence has now spread most recent gathering of the to Gaza with missile United Nations that the Oslo firings, and clashes Accords, which have been a with Palestinians who fixture in Arab-Israeli relaroll burning tires at tions, are no longer viable Israeli troops while, at or accepted, unrest has multhe same time, throw tiplied throughout the area. rocks at the IDF forces. Rabbi Howard A. Simon Israelis have been murdered Israel has no desire in Jerusalem’s Old City, and a 15-yearto see this violence escalate, thus the old boy was knifed and wounded. military presence in all areas has been These attacks followed the death of increased in order to stem or totally contwo Israeli settlers shot in front of their trol any new waves of attacks that may four children. be forthcoming. The instructions given Israel has responded to these attacks to both the police and IDF members is by increasing its military presence in to do all that is necessary to maintain the area. Prime Minister Benjamin Nepeace between Israelis and Arabs. tanyahu has called this a “terror wave,” Yisrael Katz, Israel’s Minister of while, at the same time, Hamas leader Intelligence and Atomic Energy, statIsmail Haniyah has applauded the reed recently on Army Radio that “we cent Palestinian stabbings, calling this will tighten our measures against the “the beginning of the next intifada.” To Palestinians, and the military could reinforce his words, shelling has again launch a widespread operation in the

tune in!

West Bank.” Anger on both sides needs to be cooled to avoid an all-out conflict throughout the region, something Israel certainly does not want and will do everything to avoid. The goal is peace. The need is understanding. The hope is that wisdom will rule over hatred and the desire to kill. May all parties realize this and resolve their issues with words not knives. For more information about the Heller IAI, visit www.sarasotalovesisrael.com or contact Jessi Sheslow at jsheslow@ jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2109.

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December 2015

FEDERATION NEWS

Club Fed Lecture Series: Mysteries of the Bible By Federation Staff

lub Fed is The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s senior Chavurah group in the Sarasota-Manatee region. The group will participate in the lecture series, “Mysteries of the Bible,” presented by Dr. Steven Derfler. Each lecture takes place from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. on the Federation Campus, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Here’s a quick peek at the schedule: Tuesday, January 12: Creation: “In the beginning... ” The first part of the Hebrew Bible is considered “primeval history,” the start of everything. Was there a Garden of Eden and, if so, where was it? How do we reconcile biblical narrative with archaeology? Tuesday, February 2: Exodus:

How accurate are the accounts of Joseph and his amazing technicolor dreamcoat? Were there one or two Egyptian pharaohs involved in the Exodus tradition? Do we know what happened at Sinai and where it is located? Tuesday, February 23: King

Dr. Steven Derﬂer

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Solomon: Was the monarchy of Israel as strong, impressive and powerful as the biblical narrative implies? Or was King Solomon the consolidator of a small kingdom that was relatively insignificant outside of the Hebrew text? Tuesday, March 8: Queen Esther: As the Jewish world spread its wings following the Exile of 587 BCE, it finds itself as a minority of strangers in strange lands. Even though the ability to roll with the punches allows for survival, being at odds with the majority still rules. But the influence of one of the most powerful women in the bibli-

cal world reshapes the Persian world. The Club Fed Lecture Series is sponsored by Senior Home Companions, Inc. The cost for the entire series is $18. Register online at www. jfedsrq.org or call Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113. Dr. Derﬂer is an archaeologist, historian, educator and international consultant. He has spent more than 35 years uncovering the histories of ancient civilizations and tracing the development of western religions from their roots in the Middle East and eastern Mediterranean countries.

Why I sponsor the Club Fed Lecture Series By Judy Cuppy

am honored to sponsor the Club Home Companions offers support sysFed Lecture Series at The Jewish tems and services needed to ease the Federation of Sarasota-Manatee emotional strain and provide a higher for the second year. I feel this complequality of life for the senior and carements the services I provide to the segiver. The right homemaker/compannior community and their families in ion can be one of the best answers to Southwest Florida. the stresses that most families The Lecture Series feel when dealing with life offers the community changes many seniors face on in the Sarasota-Manatee a regular basis. region a fun and stimuAdditionally, for many, lating educational exthis little bit of assistance is all perience. Everyone is that is needed to keep seniors welcome. I also hope in their own homes. There is that those who are carnothing that compares to reing for a loved one will covering from life’s adversicome and take a break ties than being in your own to enjoy the lectures. home surrounded by familiar Judy Cuppy I know that personal things and people. time and social time often have to be Judy Cuppy is president/owner of Seput aside, postponed or forgotten when nior Home Companions, Inc. She has caring for a loved one. been in the health care business for As a premier provider of senior 23 years and has a social work backservices to individuals caring for a ground. For more information, call parent, spouse or a loved one, Senior 941.924.0494.

A POWERFUL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY

A SENIOR CHAVURAH

Wednesday, January 13, 2016* Edison & Ford Winter Estates Fort Myers, FL

Leaving the Federation campus at 8:30 am $60

Wednesday, February 10, 2016* Chihuly Collection at the Morean Arts Center • St. Petersburg, FL Reservation & payment due by Jan. 10, 2015 Leaving the Federation campus at 9:00 am $60

Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Tiffany at the Morse Museum — A Day in the Park • Winter Park, FL

Admission to the Museum with a Private docent tour and 3 hours of lunch and shopping on your own. Leaving the Federation campus at 8:00 am $30 (lunch not included)

Wednesday, April 13, 2016* Greek Pots Visit EDO Betty Woodman, 2009

PAYMENT IS RESERVATION

RESERVE EARLY — LIMITED SEATING

The Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg, FL

Leaving the Federation campus at 9:00 am $60 * These outings are all Inclusive: • Transportation • Admission to Museum • Docent Tour • Lunch (No full refunds two weeks prior to event)

QUESTIONS?

Contact Jeremy Lisitza 941.343.2113 jlisitza@jfedsrq.org

Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota FL 34232

941.371.4546 • jfedsrq.org

HOLOCAUST, GENOCIDE AND TOLERANCE EDUCATION

MANY INSPIRING SPEAKERS TO CHOOSE FROM INCLUDING:

The Holocaust Speakers Bureau offers teachers a unique opportunity to expand their students’ classroom experience. We have a large number of Holocaust survivors who reside in this community. They are very motivated to visit school children and give their eyewitness accounts of the Holocaust. Also available are speakers who were hidden children, those saved through the “Kindertransport”, resistance fighters, refugees, as well as World War II camp liberators.

HILDE MANDEL PAUL MOLNAR RIFKA GLATZ MARK SOLENT HENRY TENENBAUM

All speakers are authentic to their respective experiences and feel a strong commitment to bring an awareness of the consequences that result when evil is allowed to flourish. They feel privileged and grateful to live in this wonderful country where their voices are being heard. For Booking Contact

Anne Stein, Speakers Bureau Coordinator 941.923.6470 • luvhula@gmail.com

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

For Questions Contact Orna Nissan, Director, Holocaust Education and Israel Programs 941.552.6305 • onissan@jfedsrq.org

jfedsrq.org

December 2015

FEDERATION NEWS

Federation and PJ Library partner for the High Holidays with Temple Sinai By Sue Huntting

itting through morning services on the High Holidays can be dif. ficult for young children with ttheir parents. Young ones need to be able to celebrate in age-appropriate -ways that speak to their minds, hearts -and energy levels. s For many years, Temple Sinai has -offered a Young Families Service on tthe afternoons of Rosh Hashanah and nYom Kippur. This year, the temple part-nered with The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and PJ Library to present High Holiday experiences for the PJ Library target audience – families with infants, toddlers and children up to eight years old. On both holiday afternoons the Young Families Service, led by Rabbi Geoff Huntting and Chazzan Abramson, featured both holiday mele odies and new songs that have become annual favorites. The liturgy, based on a family service written by Rabbi Judith Z. Abrams, z”l, was presented as a PowerPoint with age-appropriate ims ages to match the text. At the end of e

ing the children to consider situations each service a Jewish children’s book in which they might help make somewas also projected onto the screen so one’s life a little easier by “thinking a that everyone could easily see the story and follow along. It is this inclusion thought they never thought before.” of a story time that makes this such a By participating in these High Holiday experiences with temple and PJ natural community partnership. Library families, both parents and chilFollowing each service, we indren had opportunities to explore the cluded an activity that tied into the holiday and carried through the mesthemes of the holiday season, catch up sage of the book. At Rosh Hashanah, with old friends and make new friends for the New Year. as the director of our religious school, I Sue Huntting is the director of Temple read Today is the Birthday of the World by Linda Heller. Afterwards, children Sinai’s Religious School. participated in a birthday party for the world by decorating cupcakes, singing “Happy Birthday” in Hebrew and identifying the gifts they could each give the world that would make the world happy. The Yom Kippur book, read by Laura Freedman, Director of Early Childhood Education at Temple Sinai, was One Good Deed by Terri Fields, Marisa, Kyle and Anna Tufariello look at how others and was followed by askcould help their friends and family

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Ana and Liv Yavitz color their mini Yom Kippur books

Where are they now? Discovering my mission in Israel By Adam Ross

grew up and lived in Sarasota my with Rich Bergman, a man I had just entire life until I left for college. I met at the time, but with whom I would was never particularly connected grow very close over the course of my to Israel. It wasn’t until college that time in Israel. Now, five years later, I’m finishing my service in the IDF. I my interest began, by getting involved with Harvard Students for served as a commander in the Israel. Afterwards, despite Israeli Air Force, Unit 669, a the security I had from a special combat search and rescoveted job on Wall Street, cue unit. My experience in IsI decided that my search rael led me to grow intimately for meaning would take close to the land and people of Israel, and ultimately to find me to Eretz Yisrael. At the time, I didn’t speak Hethat meaning I was looking for years prior from behind a desk, brew, didn’t know anyone in the country, and barely dressed in a suit on the 42nd knew what the word Zionfloor in midtown Manhattan. Adam Ross ism meant. Now that I have finished Once I decided to leave my job, I my service, I am back in the United contacted the only Israeli I knew: my States looking to continue the career former Hebrew school teacher, Orna I began before leaving for Israel, and Nissan. Orna had just started working to find opportunities to support Israel at The Jewish Federation of Sarasofrom the galut [the Jewish diaspora]. ta-Manatee. She was working closely

We Are Here For You! Come Enjoy Our Up Coming Events: Holocaust Survivors Luncheon Thursday, December 3, 12:00pm

Rhythm & Jews and Chanukah Family Erev Service Followed by Dinner Service featuring holiday songs ~ Dinner to include holiday favorites Friday, December 11, 6:00pm

8th Annual Jewish Food Festival Savor a vast array of delicious ethnic foods including deli meat from Carnegie Deli Sunday, January 10, 9:00am-3:00pm (Rain or Shine)

Sarasota Mandolin Orchestra Back by popular demand featuring classic and pop melodies Sunday, January 17, 3:30pm

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

December 2015

COMMUNITY FOCUS

“Israel: The Chai-tech Nation”

Sponsored by

By Marden Paru, Dean, Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva

gainst all odds, Israel has become one of the leading exporters of high technology to a world that is starving for innovation. It seems utterly amazing that such a small country, surrounded by enemies and in a constant state of military preparedness, can become the third largest high-tech development center of the world. Most people are not even aware of the routinely-used innovations in our daily lives that we simply take for granted and that have come out of the tiny Jewish state. Innovators in solar power, water conservation, drip irrigation, medical imaging, agriculture and generic drugs are saving billions of dollars for consumers everywhere in addition to thwarting off thirst, disease

and world hunger. Even with climate change and a lack of natural water resources in the Middle East, now fully arid lands, where farming was once scarce or simply couldn’t exist, can become fertile again. Israel has taught the world the essence of the mitzvah of bal tashchit. As an ethical principle in Jewish law (Deuteronomy 20:19-20), this commandment is stated in the context of wartime and forbids cutting down the fruit trees of the enemy. Simply put: thou shall not waste. Water is being recycled in abundance, thanks to the creative brainpower of Israeli ingenuity. “Necessity is the mother of invention,” they say. It is an English proverb of unknown origin that probably accounts for the inordinate amount of discovery

the Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva, beginning Monday, December 21 from 4:15 to 5:30 p.m. This class will cover every facet of Israeli genius and creativity making our planet a better, more convenient and healthier place to inhabit. This is the epitome of the mitzvah of tikkun olam, repairing and improving our world. To register, please contact me at 941.379.5655 or marden.paru@gmail. com. The course fee is $50 and includes materials. Scholarships are available. The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva is partially funded through a grant from The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. This seminar is open to everyone and will meet on the Federation Campus, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota.

that was pioneered in the Land of Israel – a miracle perhaps. A simple diagnostic tool – the pill camera – now replaces the uncomfortable colonoscopy. The cell phone technology we all use today is from Motorola Israel. Instant messaging, firewall security software, Intel wireless computer chips, Windows NT operating system, smart cards, the flash drive, voicemail and VOIP technology all come from Israel. For those who would boycott Israeli products, it would be forbidden to use computers, cell phones, many of the new medicines, diagnostic equipment and products incorporating nanotechnology. Can you imagine such a world? “Israel: The Chai Tech Nation” is a new seven-week course offered by

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First ever Community-Wide Mitzvah Day

unday, February 21, 2016, will be this area’s first CommunityWide Mitzvah Day. The Synagogue Council of Sarasota-Manatee is coordinating this new event with the support of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. The morning will begin with a Kick-Off Breakfast before participants disperse to their various projects. The Suncoast Communities Bloodmobile will be on site for donations as well. Over a dozen area organizations will open their doors to welcome the assistance our volunteers will provide. Family Promise, Brothers and Sisters Doing the Right Thing, The Florida Center for Early Childhood, Resurrection House, Save the Seabirds, The Conservation Foundation, Hermitage Artists Retreat, Cat Depot, Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue, Anchin Pavilion and JFCS are currently part of the

plan. Projects will be available for all ages and levels of ability. White athletic sox, hotel-sized toiletries and canned foods with pop-tops are being collected. Numerous groups need these items and supplies. Please consider starting to accumulate these products when you travel or see items on sale in the stores. The goal is to find a way for everyone with an interest to become involved. Volunteers at some locations will be helping with outdoor cleanup and landscaping, others will be singing with seniors, playing games with youth, or helping to organize workspaces. How will you spend February 21? Donate your precious blood, collect needed items, and help serve breakfast or, better yet, plan to spend a few hours at an agency or organization. Registration and project details

will be available through the Federaefforts. Under the guidance of voluntion website at www.jfedsrq.org. teer facilitator Norm Olshansky, a non“This is an opportunity for a large profit professional, the group embraced number of Jewish people in our comthe idea of a day of good deeds. munity to work together and make a Please check the Federation webpositive impact,” said Laurie Lachowsite for registration and specifics beginitzer, Synagogue Council President. ning Friday, January 1. Contact Laurie “We are so fortunate that Federation at 941.927.3636 or lauriesrq@verizon. will share its technology to make regnet with questions. istering a breeze,” she added. The inspiration for this event came as an outcome of the successful board leadership workshop that Synagogue Council held last March. From that, a committee of thirty people from The Community-Wide Mitzvah Day planning committee: nine area congregaLaurie Lachowitzer, Annette Wolfe, Alice D’Souza, tions formed to plan Leny Cohen, Alice Blueglass, Brenda and Herb Schimmel, Kathy Brooks, Joel Servetz future collaborative

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December 2015

COMMUNITY FOCUS

A Taste of Chanukah festival at the Sarasota Fairgrounds

he 5th annual A Taste of Cha5 nukah festival sponsored by y Chabad of Sarasota will once y -again be held at the Sarasota Fair.grounds. Join us on Sunday, December 6 from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. This year’s festival will feature g live entertainment by the Moshav and tFreylekh bands. Kosher food will be .available for purchase from Michael’s On East and Michael Lauber catering. .Latkes prepared by Munchies 420 Café -and Sufganiyot by Orit will be sold as ewell. The menorah garden will feature -an ice-sculpted menorah, a balloon meenorah and a 15-foot-high Tube Dude menorah. Entertainment for the young and the young-at-heart will include a snake and bird show presented by Jungle Gardens, a petting zoo, pony rides, a 3-ton snow slide, stilt walkers, juggling show, carnival games, inflatables

The 8' dreidel at last year’s event will make a repeat appearance

Sponsored by

and much more. This community-wide event is fortunate to have the following sponsors: The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee, SRQ Media, Sunset Chevrolet, Shapiro Goldman Walsh and Baboni, Glenridge, Team Maslen at Michael Saunders & Company, Family Practice Associates, Anonymous in honor of Vivien Kalvaria, Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Budweiser, Ice Pro LLC. The entire community is invited to this festival at the Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd. Admission is $3 per person and can be purchased at the gate or online at www.atasteofchanukah.com. Parking is free. For more information, please visit the website or facebook.com/atasteof chanukah, or call the Chabad office at 941.925.0770.

Temple Sinai’s 8th Annual Food Festival

• You 18 years of age or older • You are the child or grandchild of a Holocaust concentration camp survivor • If your parent or grandparent emigrated from Germany, Poland, Czech Republic and Slovakia (formerly known as Czechoslovakia), Austria, or Hungary after World War II

Participation involves: • A brief telephone screening ¥ A 1-hour visit where you will Þll out a questionnaire OR optional online survey ¥ An optional interview where you will be asked questions about yourself

If you are interested in learning more about this project, please contact: Melissa Wasserman Duguay, M.A. Principal Investigator (818) 971-9877 [Call or text] Melissa.Duguay@pepperdine.edu

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hat do bagels, chopped livwill be available and there is ample er, chicken soup, blintzes, parking to accommodate over 300 cars. corned beef and pastrami Overflow parking and shuttle service is sandwiches, kosher hot dogs, (the available on Proctor near Beneva at corned beef, pastrami and hot dogs are Sarasota Technical Institute (formerly coming from a famous New York City SCTI). In addition, you won’t want to deli) kugel and almost everything else miss the opportunity to take a tour of known to mankind in the way of tradithe beautiful temple, which is the artional Jewish cuisine have in common? ea’s newest synagogue in the SarasotaThey can all be found for your delecManatee community. table consumption at Temple Sinai’s 8th This year, Temple Sinai is proud Annual Food Festival, plus health/craft to announce that it is again partnervendors and a book fair. ing with the All Faiths Food Bank. Come rain or shine, beginning at This partnership is another facet of 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 10 and Temple Sinai’s continuing community lasting until 3:00 p.m., to savor a vast outreach effort and Social Action proarray of delicious ethnic foods pregramming. Attendees are encouraged pared by a host of dedicated Temple to bring non-perishable food items to Sinai volunteers. Menu items are availthe event. able at www.JewishFoodSRQ.com. Home Depot will also be providing a demonstration project for kids. Preparations for this yearly event have been going on for quite some time. Mark Margolis, chair of the event, predicts that this year’s food fest will be the largest and most successful one that Temple Sinai has Mark Margolis and Alyson Zildjian helped off load the amazing ever held. Takeout service deli meat that was shipped overnight from New York last year

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December 2015

COMMUNITY FOCUS

National Council of Jewish Women, Sarasota-Manatee Section’s 34th Annual Women in Power Luncheon

he National Council of Jewish Women, Sarasota-Manatee Section’s 34th Annual Women in Power Luncheon will be held on Wednesday, January 20 at Michael’s On East. Networking begins at 11:00 a.m with lunch being served at noon. The event will honor three 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 Lauren Brownstein and Marion Marshak. Felice Schulaner Philanthropist, Not-for-Proﬁt Community Board Member, Women’s Empowerment Advocate A graduate of New College, among Felice’s impressive credentials is serving as Vice Chair of the New College Board of Trustees, a Director of the New College Foundation, Vice Chair of the Board of Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida, and board member of Visible Men

Academy and the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. From March 2011 until May 2015, Schulaner served as the Executive Director of the Coach Foundation, whose mission areas were women’s empowerment and education for underserved populations. Prior to this role, Schulaner held senior Human Resources positions at Coach, Inc., American Express, Optimark Technologies and Salant Corporation. Clare F. Segall Community Activist, Education Advocate, Planned Parenthood Volunteer Among Clare’s valuable contributions to our community is serving as a board member of Planned Parenthood and a Patient Educator in its Health Center Clinic, being involved with the Sarasota Ballet’s afterschool “Dance Next Generation” program for at-risk children, and serving as a former coChair of the 2012 Jewish Family & Children’s Service Gala. Clare’s professional career is in education and counseling. This multi-talented woman has worked as a computer consultant for her family’s commercial real estate business and as a residential real estate broker in Boston. Helping women and supporting their desire to

have control over their bodies is her passion. Hillary Steele Community Service Champion, Organizer and Volunteer, Education Advocate Hillary’s most significant gifts to our community are her tireless leadership as Chair of the Sarasota Ballet Board of Directors and her dedicated commitment as a member of the Leaders Circle comprised of a group of Bowls of Hope donors. She was instrumental in starting the Backpack Pro-

gram at Goldie Feldman Academy andB has served on committees to help The Pines, JFCS, Bowls of Hope, Ringling College, Ringling Museum, The YMCA, Senior Friendship Center, Kobernick-Anchin-Benderson, Harvest House, SPARCC, Women’s Resource Center, Designing Women, Temple Beth Sholom Sisterhood luncheon, S.E. Guide Dogs and others. Tickets to the event are $75; Patron Levels: Bronze $100 (includes one ticket & listing), Silver $150 (includes one ticket & listing), Gold $200+ (includes one ticket & listing). For a personal invitation or more information, call 941.342.1855. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideas into action!

Kol HaNeshama congregation wins award The Kol HaNeshama congregation won the Jewish Life Education Award on Monday, October 26 from Jewish Family & Children’s Service. Social Action volunteers from Kol HaNeshama, and co-chairs Judy Barde and Leny Cohen, were recognized at the Annual Meeting and Volunteer Recognition program sponsored by JFCS, whose mission is: “Guided by the Jewish tradition of helping all people, JFCS empowers individuals and families toward self-sufficiency.” Kol HaNeshama has supported JFCS through food pantry donations, the Adopt a Family program, and collecting books for healthy families.

SAVE THE

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Nellie’s Deli & Catering...............10B Oasis Cafe......................................9A Observer Group...........................24A Optical Services.............................4A Paisano’s Italian Bakery.................4B Palms-Robarts Funeral Home......31A Perfect Solutions for Seniors, Inc...9A Polo Grill.......................................6B Publix..........................................12B Rudd International, Inc................18A Sarasota Center for Family Health..3A Sarasota Concert Association.......11B Sarasota Inst. of Lifelong Learning.6B Sarasota Personal Medicine............9A Sarasota Watch Company...............2A Sleep King....................................10B Suponcic, Ron, REALTOR®..........12A Temple Beth Sholom...................19A Temple Sinai............................7A,7B The Collier Group, REALTOR®....6A The Family Jeweler........................1A The Glasser Schoenbaum HSC.....4A The Glenridge..............................17A The Perlman Music Program.......10B The Players Theatre.......................5B The Resort at Longboat Key Club.11A The Sheridan at Lakewood Ranch.8A Tidewell Hospice.........................12A Toale Brothers Funeral Homes....31A Udell Associates..........................21A University Park Dermatology.......20A Urology Treatment Center............20A USF............................................23A Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall...32A Verier, Andrea, M.A., M.S............25A Winn-Dixie..................................17A

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December 2015

COMMUNITY FOCUS

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Introducing the new Cancer Support and Wellness program at JFCS By Jamie M. Smith, MBA, Director of Marketing

s of October, JFCS is providing support and wellness services to cancer patients and their families following the closing of The Center for Building Hope (CBH). Rose Chapman, JFCS President and CEO, quickly assessed the need for those clients relying on CBH’s programs to maintain participation in the services that were being offered. The goal was to create a seamless transition of services for clients and their families. However, JFCS has no ties to CBH’s building, real estate, debt or internal administrative and organizational policies.

JFCS has grouped the services under a new Cancer Support and Wellness program, which offers information, support groups and services to cancer patients, caregivers and their family members. Workshops and groups being offered include yoga, Qigong, cancer recovery exercise, a men’s group, a grief group, expressive writing, relaxation, as well as support groups for colorectal cancer, oral, neck and head cancer, lung cancer, multiple myeloma, and breast cancer. A full calendar of workshops is available on the JFCS website at www.JFCS-Cares.org. Andrea Feldmar, former program

director for CBH, has joined JFCS to help with the transition of services to multiple JFCS facilities. Additional instructors have also joined the JFCS team. JFCS will raise funds through community donations in order to continue seamlessly integrating these services Each month, JFCS will publish a new calendar of available into its existing wellness cancer support and wellness workshops programs that align with the program, contact Andrea Feldmar, the JFCS mission of empowering indiProject Director, at 941.366.2224 x167 viduals and families. or afeldmar@JFCS-Cares.org. For more information or to support

Dedication of new JFCS van for seniors

Sarasota Jewish Chorale Chanukah programs

n Friday evening, December 11, the Sarasota Jewish Chorale will present a Chanukah program for the Jewish Congregation of Venice (600 N. Auburn Road) following Shabbat services. This is a most enjoyable evening as the Chorale will perform lively and uplifting songs. These include many popular melodies, along with a number of Chanukah favorites, such as “Bidi Bom, a Happy Time of Year,” “Sevivon, Sov, Sov, Sov” and, of course, “Rock of Ages.” These familiar songs may have the congregation join in singing along. The Chorale’s Chanukah program is a wonderful holiday treat. On Friday evening, December 18, the SJC will be at Temple Emanu-El (151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota) for a Shabbat service, as well. The Chorale enjoys a familiarity with the temple

By Andria Bilan, VP of Development

hanks to the generosity of Charto socialize, receive therapy and mainlotte P. Graver, homebound setain a community connection,” stated niors and their caregivers who Charlotte. attend the weekly Senior Outreach Pamela Baron, Director of Senior Services program at Jewish Family & Services, noted, “Thanks to this gift, Children’s Service have a new handiour seniors won’t be asking the quescapped-accessible van to transport tion: How will I get to JFCS? But them every Wednesday and Friday to rather, they will be asking a different the agency’s main campus on Fruitville question: When will the van be here to Road. pick me up?” Rabbi Michael Eisenstat officiated If you or a loved one are interested the dedication ceremony which was in learning more about the supportheld at the Community Foundation of ive senior services available through Sarasota County on Monday, October JFCS, please contact Pamela Baron, 19. MSW, Director of Senior Services, at “Several years ago I met a man 941.366.2224 or pbaron@JFCS-Cares. who attended the SOS program at org. JFCS and he told me how important this program was to him and how he looked forward to getting out and being with people. I know how much my own mother benefited from the supportive senior services she received in New York, and this van will ensure that seniors here in Sarasota will New JFCS van (photo courtesy of Murray Devine, Community Foundation of Sarasota County have the same opportunity B”H

By Marcia Polevoi

as it has performed there many times. They will present a similar Chanukah program to the one in Venice. The Sarasota Jewish Chorale repertoire consists of spirited moving arrangements of classic Jewish compositions, including those in Hebrew, Ladino, Israeli and English. The Chorale, under the direction of Linda Stewart Tucker, meets most Thursday evenings from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Hecht School on the Federation Campus, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Newcomers are always welcome. For more information, call Susan Skovronek at 941.355.8011. To book a performance for your organization, call Phyllis Lipshutz at 941.924.6717. You call also check out our website at www. sarasotajewishchorale.org or look us up on Facebook.

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S p e c t a c u l a r This event is sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee andof Lakewood Ranchtogether Main Street. with Chabad Wilmette Admission is free. Nominal food fees to apply.School Sponsor $500. Wilmette Community Hebrew

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December 2015

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Another amazing High Holy Day food drive for Temple Emanu-El

he annual High Holy Day food drive at Temple Emanu-El collected over 3,200 pounds of food, filling a record nine bins and providing thousands of meals for hungry people served by All Faiths Food Bank. Additionally, over $5,000 in monetary donations were given by members of the congregation. This amazing result fulfills the prophet Isaiah’s charge – read during Yom Kippur services – to share our bread with the hungry at this season. “On Rosh Hashanah, we gave out 800 bags (from Publix),” High Holy

Day food drive chair Helene Rosencally encouraging the congregation to berg reported, “and people brought give with all their hearts, and at this food on Yom Kippur. We fulfilled the Torah’s command to feed the poor.” “I was very happy with the congregants who were so generous and so glad to give,” she added, “and I thank friends from Pelican Cove who helped prepare the flyers on the bags. Most of all, thanks to Rabbi Brenner Emily Tennenbaum and fourth-graders Alexandra and Madison Witherspoon display some of the collected food Glickman for enthusiasti-

time of year to not only think about our lives but how we can improve the lives of others.” Sincere thanks were also offered to members of Temple Emanu-El’s Social Action Committee, Brotherhood, Joel and Sherrie Eisenberg, and the many teen and adult volunteers who helped unload food from the cars of worshippers arriving at Yom Kippur services. For more information about Temple Emanu-El’s efforts to aid those in need, please call the temple office at 941.371.2788.

Rosalie Leon to perform Women of Valor: Their Stories and Songs at Kehillah of Lakewood Ranch By Sandy Chase

he Kehillah of Lakewood Ranch, a Conservative synagogue, invites you to our continuing L’chaim Monday celebrations on December 14, led by guitarist and vocalist Rosalie Leon, who will per-

Rosalie Leon

form stories and songs of famous Jewish women throughout history. In what promises to be a spiritual, inspiring and entertaining evening, Ms. Leon will serenade you while recounting the heroism, determination and creativity of such women as Golda Meir, Emma Lazarus and Naomi Shemer. Indulge in desserts catered by Safta Sweets, as you listen to haunting, melodious and uplifting Yiddish and Hebrew songs. Rosalie has been entertaining in the Sarasota area for over 20 years, performing Jewish-themed programs for synagogues, organizations and private parties, including The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s Women’s

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 • Spiritual consultation with Rabbi on request • Bible and prayer book www.tidewell.org • 941-552-7500 • 855-Tidewell

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Passover Seder. Rosalie is the Cantorial Soloist for Kobernick-Anchin, celebrating the Jewish holidays with Rabbi Barbara Aiello and the residents. Rosalie has also performed Debbie Friedman’s Passover music there for the past nine years. “Sharing my musical gifts is gratifying,” Rosalie beams when recounting her experiences. “When Kobernick

residents take my hand and thank me, it’s gratifying to know that I’m there for them.” Please join us on Monday, December 14 at 7:00 p.m. for a memorable evening at the Windsor, 8220 Natures Way, Lakewood Ranch. To RSVP or for more information, call 941.281.2587 or 941.349.8604. This event is free, but donations are appreciated.

“These we honor” Your Tributes ANNUAL CAMPAIGN IN HONOR OF Susi Benson-Steenbarger Rookie Shifrin Ginette Hersh Rita and Richard Weingarten Nancy Roucher Phyllis and Saul Lowitt Joyce Sambursky – Birthday Laura Lovejoy and Robert Sambursky Jerry Silverman Julie and Josh Green Bunny Skirboll – Special Birthday Ilene and Michael Fox IN MEMORY OF Leslie Bernstein Gisele and Isaac Azerad Ilene and Michael Fox

BOB MALKIN YOUNG AMBASSADORS GET WELL Alan Ades Marsha and Marvin Frank IN HONOR OF Joan and Peter Wells Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz IN MEMORY OF Leslie Bernstein Rebecca and Rich Bergman Inna and Gerry Sideman Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz MAZEL TOV Sue and Alan Loring – Son’s Marriage Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP FUND IN MEMORY OF Leslie Bernstein Gloria Feibus

DIFFERENT TOGETHER – ISRAEL IN MEMORY OF Leslie Bernstein Jeremy Lisitza and Michael Shelton

ISRAEL PROGRAMS IN HONOR OF Martha and Marc Grinberg Dick Mottino Rona Simon – Special Birthday Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz IN MEMORY OF Anita Plutchik Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz MAZEL TOV David Chaifetz Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz

SKIP (Send a Kid to Israel) IN HONOR OF David Chaifetz Bonnie and Michael Chisling Mickey Fox – 90th Birthday Barbara and Gary Ackerman Barbara Hankin Barbara and Gary Ackerman IN MEMORY OF Leslie Bernstein Barbara and Gary Ackerman Edie and David Chaifetz Irene and Marty Ross Lois and Shelly Ross Patti and David Wertheimer Howard Greber Bernice Stern Richard Joseph Saranee and Cantor Neil Newman MAZEL TOV Sharon Linder – Adam’s Bar Mitzvah Joyce and Steve Oppen Hannah Weinberg – Award Recipient Penny and Charles Shuman

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.

December 2015

COMMUNITY FOCUS

13A

Hannah Puckhaber to be honored as “Light of Torah”

annah Puckhaber will be honored as the Temple Beth Sholom Sisterhood’s “Light of Torah” at this year’s Torah Fund Day s of Study and Luncheon on Wednesday, oJanuary 13 at 9:30 a.m. Hannah models the ideals of Torah l Study, Avodah (service), and G’milut l yHasadim (Acts of Kindness). Since moving to Sarasota, Hannah is a regular at Shabbat, Jewish festival services and minyan. She participates in study classes with Rabbi Michael Werbow, nand completed last year’s Adult Bat tMitzvah class. As an active member

of the Sisterhood, she has ish text and traditions, been president, programboth ancient and modern, around women ming chair, and Judaica Shop chair. Additionally, as and head covering. chair of the TBS We Care Melissa earned Committee, Hannah has a master’s degree in shown that she learned Jewish Education and Jewish Communal well the ideals her parents taught her. Service from Hebrew The Torah Fund Day Union College. She of Study begins with a keyhas worked as a Jewnote and discussion led by ish educator as well Hannah Puckhaber Melissa Werbow on the as a consultant in the topic “Heads Up! Jewish Women and field of Jewish education. Currently, Head Covering.” She will explore Jewshe is teaching part-time at Goldie

Darshan Yeshiva student lights Shabbat candles for the ﬁrst time as a Jew By Choice Rabbi Barbara Aiello (at right), resident rabbi of Kobernick-Anchin-Benderson, presents Kimberley Smith with her conversion certificate as Kimberley lights Shabbat candles, her first as a Jew By Choice. After a yearlong study program at Darshan Yeshiva, Kimberley began her conversion ceremony that included an appearance before a Bet Din – a three-person panel made up of rabbis and/or Jewish lay leaders – and was followed by the ritual immersion, or mikvah ceremony.

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Feldman Academy. The presentation will be followed by a luncheon catered by Michael’s On East. Couvert for the luncheon is $36. Separate donations made to Torah Fund benefit scholarships to the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York City, the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies in Los Angeles, the Schechter Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem, and the Seminario Rabínico Latinoamericano in Buenos Aires. For more information, contact Evie Mitchell at 941.554.8529 or evmit@ comcast.net.

Wreaths Across America By Stan Levinson, Commander, JWV Sarasota Post 172

here has been much controversy within the Jewish faith as to whether the wreaths placed in all National Cemeteries during the month of December represent a religious item. Those who believe they are based on religion cite the fact that the wreaths are in place over Christmas and have a red bow, possibly representing the blood of Christ. The other side of this story is that many people feel the wreaths are not strictly a religious object. Rather, they are a way of showing the respect and closeness of all veterans. They feel that the red bow depicts the blood of all deceased military personnel. Although it is not widely publicized, any person who wishes to have the wreath removed from their lovedone’s grave needs only to contact the director of the cemetery and request that the wreath be removed. Directors

state each year that the wreaths are not to be placed on any grave displaying a Star of David. However, since the people placing the wreaths are local volunteers, a few may slip through. If you visit your loved-one’s grave after Saturday, December 12 and find a wreath, all you need do is ask to have it removed. You must be a part of the immediate family and/or Executor of the Estate, and contact the Director’s Office with the deceased person’s name and/or gravesite location. The wreath will be removed promptly. I am writing this article in order to make all families of the Jewish faith familiar with the Wreath Project. They may take whatever action they deem appropriate. For more information or explanation, please contact me at 941.907.6720 or stanlevinson172@gmail.com.

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December 2015

A song for each night of Chanukah

JEWISH INTEREST

Jerusalem Post Crossword Puzzle “Everybody Knows One” By Yoni Glatt

Difﬁculty Level: Easy

By Arlene Stolnitz

e each have favorite Chanukah songs that we sing during the Festival of Lights. And we love hearing them over and over again: “I Have a Little Dreidel,” “Hanukkah! Oh Hanukkah!,” “Ma’oz Tsur (Rock of Ages),” “Sevivon, Sov, Sov, Sov.” But did you know that there are many creative arrangements and brand new tunes with lyrics you never heard before? Just check these out on YouTube and you will be amazed at what you hear! Arlene Stolnitz Also check out the websites of the artists and hear their latest. First, “Pass the Candles (From Left to Right)” by Michelle Citrin and William Levin reminds us which way to light the candles every year. (I always forget!) Folks, young, old and in between from the world over, are shown lighting Hanukkah candles with a catchy tune sung by each of them. Did you ever light the candles with your dog, using your feet, in a yoga position, on a boat or in even more outrageous situations? It’s a fun CD, but with a message! Next, “Happy Joyous Hanukkah” by Woody Guthrie and the Klezmatics is an upbeat album with a country twang and a beat that makes your toes tap. It’s music for dancing with your kids and grandkids! Turns out Guthrie’s mother-in-law was the renowned Yiddish poet Aliza Greenblatt. Guthrie became involved with the Coney Island Jewish community, writing many songs related to Jewish life which have recently been “rediscovered” by Guthrie’s daughter. “How Do You Spell Channukkahh?” from the album “Hanukkah Rocks” by the LeeVees is a fun exploration of the many ways that the name of the holiday is spelled. So just how do you spell it? Chanukah? Hanukkah? Hanukah? Hannukah? Xanuka? Channukka? Chanuqa? Just like this: ‫!חנוכה‬ Kenny Ellis has come up with a different take on Hanukkah. “Sevivon, Sov, Sov, Sov” from the album “Hanukkah Swings” takes us back to the Big Band Era’s swing’n feeling. With a distinctive Benny Goodman sound, nostalgic for those who grew up in that generation, Ellis sings Hanukkah songs in the manner of a “lounge singer.” To use a phrase of the time, “It’s

just groovy!” “The Dreidel Song” from the album “Its Chanukah Time” by contemporary singer Julie Silver is a bluesy, folksy guitar rendition in which she sings, “It’s my turn to spin the dreidel / I’ve been stuck inside the house with the wintertime blues.” Silver sings “Spin that funky dreidel / when it’s dry and ready / dreidel I will play” with the dobro guitar accompaniment of talented Troy Dexter. Rabbi Joe Black of the talented Maxwell Street Klezmer Band in Chicago has a catchy tune, “Eight Nights of Joy.” “From the streets of Tel Aviv to Chicago, Illinois,” the Festival of Lights is celebrated in a fun upbeat way. It’s the title track to his “Hanukkah” album. We can’t forget to include Orthodox-rocker Matisyahu with his “Miracle.” “Just livin’ in the miracle / Candles are my vehicle / Eight nights, gonna shine.” Born Matthew Paul Miller to a Reconstructionist family in Westchester County, New York, later known as Matt, he adopted the name “Matisyahu” when he turned to Chasidism in his spiritual journey. His work is a blend of reggae, rap, hip-hop, jazz and the soulful prayer of “hazzanish.” And of course, there is the beloved late Debbie Friedman, whose “Latke Song” tells of everyone’s favorite food while conveying a message of social justice. The enthusiasm and excitement she generated during her short-lived life continues to a new generation who are experiencing the passion that was her driving force. This is just a sampling of the many new and different songs being created by our talented artists today. You can find them all online by typing “Hanukkah Music” or the name of the individual song on YouTube. You will be surprised with what you find. And, just for fun, check out “Boogie Woogie Hannukah” by the Seattle Men’s Chorus with original music and lyrics by Eric Barnes. You will “plotz!” Hag Sameach! Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sarasota Jewish Chorale, is a member of the Jewish Congregation of Venice. A retired educator from Rochester, New York, she has sung in choral groups for over 25 years and also sings in Venice’s Chorale (formerly Exsultate!). Her interest in choral music has led to this series of articles on Jewish folk music in the Diaspora.

L’Chayim HERE’S “TO LIFE” ON THE GULF COAST Committed to the Jewish Community for almost 20 years, Stacy is passionate about real estate and strives to build everlasting relationships based on exceptional service, uncompromising values and a strong work ethic.

Editor: YoniGlatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com Across 1. Shoe that might be worn on Yom Kippur 5. Shipment container for an oleh 10. Common Jewish last name 14. Yoni Netanyahu, e.g. 15. Common Jewish last name 16. “Ex’s & Oh’s” singer King 17. Hebrew for “made” 18. “All ___ the Watchtower,” oftcovered Dylan song 19. Bilhah and Zilpah to Josef, en espanol 20. Common Jewish last name 22. Common Jewish last name 23. Shochet string 24. Pinkish Monster who has appeared on “Shalom Sesame” 26. Have some kreplach 29. French equivalent of an agora, once 30. Indiana Jones finds it 33. Common Jewish last name 38. Pilot Earhart in Shawn Levy’s “Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian” 40. Asimov’s “Counting the ___” 41. What clashes sometimes do in Jerusalem 43. One can do this down the Jordan 44. Common Jewish last name 46. Common Jewish last name 48. Weizman and Bialik in Tel Aviv: Abbr. 49. Some rural rtes. in the Negev 51. “Now You __ Me,” Isla Fisher flick 52. Ein Gedi, e.g. 54. Klutzes 59. Common Jewish last name 62. Common Jewish last name 65. Idina (Menzel) voiced her 66. The brass used in the Temple, e.g. 67. Tref Bell 68. “___ of You” (1958 Elvis hit) 69. Kind of fire agreed to with Hamas 70. Sound that can be heard at the Makhtesh crater 71. TV personality Berkus 72. What Saul did by letting Agag live 73. Farm no-no on a sabbatical year Down 1. ___ toppers, many Drake songs 2. Plant pomegranates, again 3. “...___ I like to call it....” (Start of many a Borscht Belt punchline )

Solution on page 26A

4. Common Jewish last name 5. Kvetch 6. Make like David 7. Call off an IDF mission 8. Bits of (different) colors that can disqualify a red heifer 9. It’s often heard in Ra’anana: Abbr. 10. Accommodate a Hatzalah vehicle 11. “East of Eden” director Kazan 12. Prince ___ Dracula, Winona Ryder love interest in a 1992 film 13. “___ Can!” – Sammy Davis Jr. book 21. Requirement, like matzo on Passover 22. Stern Grad 25. Truly dislike, like a Nazi 27. What Jews try to make around Yom Kippur time 28. Black, gooey substance not suitable for lighting Shabbat candles, according to the Mishna 30. Banned spray that isn’t good for apples (and honey) 31. There was one between David and Absalom 32. Common Jewish last name 33. Admit to sin, with “up” 34. Result of Blatt’s Cavaliers against Maccabi Tel Aviv 35. Jay Fiedler didn’t like throwing them: Abbr. 36. Woodmere, NY, time zone 37. Anti-Israel college grp. 39. Steroid ___, stain for Selig 42. Dell alternatives to Macs 45. Israeli diplomat Namir and others 47. Becomes chatan and kallah 50. Actress Jamie-Lynn 52. “August: ___ County” (2013 Weinstein film) 53. Panels on many Israeli roofs 55. Furry swimmer endangered in northern Israel 56. Shalom 57. 9 Av reading 58. Be a nosy yenta 59. Common Jewish last name, or at least a start to many 60. Site of Napoleon’s exile 61. “___ fire to the rain...” – Adele chorus that Leah Greenblatt said “surges” 63. ___ weight, post-Passover goal 64. Like blue strings on tzitzit 66. Israeli Air Force hero

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December 2015

JEWISH INTEREST

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The Shabbat Project 2015 generates one million stories From Melbourne to Montreal to Mexico City, Boca Raton to Buenos Aires and beyond, the global observance of Shabbat united and inspired worldwide Jewry.

t the conclusion of the October 23-24 Shabbat Project, the hash-tagged pictures started appearing on the event’s website and social media around the world, showing hundreds of thousands of wildly enthusiastic people preparing for the coming of the Jewish Sabbath in a variety of innovative ways. With 924 cities engaged in 75 countries around the world, 2015’s Shabbat Project mobilized more than one million Jews worldwide. Of all the hashtags generated by the initiative – #challahbake, #shab bosproject, #greatbigchallahbake, #kneadingittogether, #havdalahconcert – none was more compelling than #keepingittogether, which became a mantra for the project’s fully realized goal and a movement of sorts. Jews around the world drew together for The Shabbat Project, from

AUBER

a 3,000-person Friday night dinner in Los Angeles to a Great Big Challah Bake in Brooklyn – where a 20-foot loaf made the Guinness Book of World Records – to a Shabbat Expo in Panama City and an intergenerational dance in Vienna. Created two years ago in Johannesburg, The Shabbat Project quickly proved so popular that it spread across social media and grew into a global grassroots movement. This year, it sparked thousands of local events, including synchronized challah baking, communal meals, prayer services, concerts heralding Havdalah (a ceremony marking the end of the Sabbath), and even weekend-long celebrations. The original impetus for the project, created by Dr. Warren Goldstein, Chief Rabbi of South Africa, was to address the increasingly fragmented nature of modern life. “We are con-

5TH AL U N N A NY &

heartwarming, and shows the remarkable depth and reach of The Shabbat Project. There has been a great outpouring of joy and excitement, with so many people touched in deeply personal ways. Such a visceral reaction demonstrates that the ideas of Jewish unity and Shabbat are compelling to Jews from all walks of life. From the reports that are emerging, it’s clear that there has been a significant increase in participation this year – and I am confident this social movement will continue to expand as more and more people taste the magic of Shabbat and experience the beauty of Jews coming together in a spirit of unity.”

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stantly pulled in different directions by distractions, demands and onerous responsibilities that pile up with increasing speed. We seldom get the chance to be truly present. In a world of fragmentation, Shabbat enters to offers us that chance to connect and unite as a community,” he said. Promoted by acclaimed actress Mayim Bialik and superstar musician Matisyahu, as well as high-profile rabbis and members of Israel’s parliament, The Shabbat Project was an unprecedented phenomenon in nearly 1,000 cities worldwide, a significant uptick from last year. In the aftermath of The Shabbat Project 2015, as the worldwide partner communities posted their photographs and stories on the project website, Rabbi Goldstein released a statement: “The response from around the world has been overwhelming and

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December 2015

JEWISH INTEREST

Hanukkah Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pastrami and Pickled Onions

By Jessi Sheslow

’m sure you all remember the amazing and incredible oncein-70,000-years event that was “Thanksgivikkah” two years ago. I loved it. I know this year the two holidays don’t overlap but I’ve been thinking about it and I want to start some fun and culturally aware traditions with my one-year-old daughter, Ziva. I want to honor both our Jewish culture and our American culture. So I plan to keep the tradition of having Thanksgiving-inspired Hanukkah meals. It doesn’t hurt that they’re delicious! The recipe that I’m sharing with you is Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pastrami and Pickled Onions. For inquiring minds, this is not kosher, just Jew-ish. Everything about this is appealing to me and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. (Courtesy of Buzzfeed.com for this recipe.) Ingredients Serves 8-10

Pickled Onions: • 1 medium red onion, finely diced* • 2 cups rice wine vinegar** • 1/2 cup sugar • 1/4 cup salt Brussels Sprouts: • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (1/2 stick) • 1/2 pound deli pastrami, thinly sliced • 5 pounds Brussels sprouts, halved • 1 teaspoon kosher salt • freshly ground pepper to taste *To dice means to chop into roughly 1/4-inch cubes. **Rice wine vinegar is NOT the same as rice wine. You can ﬁnd rice wine vinegar in the Asian section of your local grocery store, or with the other vinegars. Preparation For Pickled Onions: Bring rice wine vinegar to a boil in a small saucepan. Add sugar and salt,

and stir until dissolved. Turn off heat and let mixture cool for about 5 minutes. Put diced onion in a large heatproof container, and pour vinegar mixture over. When mixture is room temperature, refrigerate for at least a day. For Brussels Sprouts: Preheat oven to 425°F. Cut pastrami into strips roughly ¼ inch wide and 2 inches long. Melt butter in a large skillet or saute pan over medium heat. Add pastrami and cook over medium heat until browned fat has rendered out, about 3 minutes. Pour pastrami and fat into a large heatproof mixing bowl. Add Brussels sprouts, salt and pepper, and toss to combine. Line two large baking sheets with foil and spread Brus-

sels sprouts out on them in a single layer. Don’t crowd the pans. Roast for 35 minutes, removing pans from the oven at the 20-minute mark to move the Brussels sprouts around a little, then rotating the pans from top to bottom rack before putting them back in the oven for the remaining 15 minutes. Brussels sprouts will be dark brown and crispy around the edges. Strain the pickled red onions and reserve 1/2 cup of pickling liquid. As soon as the Brussels sprouts come out of the oven, toss them with the red onions and the ¼ cup of liquid while they’re still warm. Serve immediately. Jessi Sheslow is Director of Community Relations at The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

K’zohar Ha-Ivrit Hanukkah who’s who By Dr. Rachel Zohar Dulin

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We hope you feel at home and become active members of the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish community.

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anukkah, the holiday of lights, is at our door. The candles lit during this lovely holiday stand as a yearly reminder of the Jewish struggle against tyranny and religious oppression. For, Hanukkah is a celebration of the victory of the human spirit, where the few, led by the Maccabees, overcame the many, the Seleucid-Greeks, Dr. Rachel Dulin and established an independent Jewish Hasmonaean dynasty in the Land of Israel (167-37 BCE). The questions arise, why were the Jewish fighters called Maccabees and why was the dynasty which they established called Hasmonaean? The struggle against the Greeks was initiated by Mattathias, a priest from the village of Modi’in in the foothills of the Judean mountains. His refusal to obey the Greek demands, which contradicted Torah law, and his teaching that self-defense is permitted on Shabbat, sparked the beginning of a guerrilla war against the occupying regime (I Mac 2:27-41). Judah, Mattathias’ third son, led the struggle after his father’s death and turned it into a full-scale war. Due to his charismatic personality and fierce combat ability, he was known among the warriors as “Judah the Maccabee” (I Mac 3:11). There are two theories for the origin of the title. Some say that it is an acronym for Mi Ca-mo-kha Ba-e-lim Yhwh, (Who is like You, God, among the gods), a declaration taken from the song sung by Miriam and the people of Israel after crossing the Reed Sea (Ex 15:11). These words rallied the Jews in their fight for freedom, and the title of

Maccabee bestowed honor upon their leader. Others explain that Maccabee is derived from the word ma-ke-vet, meaning “hammer,” and exemplified the strong hand and zeal of the man who stood at the head of the revolt. At the end, all those who joined with Judah the Maccabee were known as Maccabees, and the fight for freedom was named “The Maccabean Wars.” Hasmonaean, on the other hand, is the name of the Jewish dynasty, which rose to power in Israel after the Maccabean victory. The origin of the name and its meaning is not clear. According to some, Mattathias the priest, the patriarch of the dynasty, was a descendent of a priestly line, which originated in the town of Hash-mon on the Judean southern border (I Mac 2:1; Neh 12:6). The town of Hash-mon was mentioned twice in the Bible (Num 34:29; Josh 15:27) and those who came from that town were known as Hasmonaeans. Others claim that the name of the dynasty, which ruled Israel for over one hundred years, is based on the Hebrew word hash-ma-nim. This word appears only once in the Bible (Ps 68:32) and means “minister,” “leader” and “marquis.” From the Middle Ages onward, hash-ma-nim in Hebrew refers to cardinals of the church. And so, as we light the Hanukkah candles to commemorate The Maccabean Wars and the Hasmonaean era, we should remember the bravery and the zeal exhibited by our people throughout time in the fight for national identity and religious freedom. I wish all our readers a very happy Hanukkah! 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.

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December 2015

JEWISH INTEREST

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. as Charlie Brown. Job offers are now pouring in for this handsome young fellow. Another handsome thespian, EMORY COHEN, 25, co-starred in the 1950s immigrant drama, Brooklyn. This film got universal raves, and Cohen, who plays a zesty Italian American plumber who romances a mousy Irish girl, was singled out for praise. Variety called it a breakthrough role and compared Cohen to Marlon Brando. Brieﬂy Noted There have been several network news reports about a Vermont-based company that’s selling men’s briefs with a silkscreen drawing of BERNIE SANDERS on the front, and underneath his pic it says “Feel the Bern.” The company says it’s a tribute to Sanders, and 10% of the revenues will go to a charity that helps veterans. Of course, the underwear sales are a nod to LARRY DAVID’s hilarious Sanders impression on SNL in which he said that he, a regular guy, only has one pair of underwear – but billionaires have three or four. “Feel the Bern” isn’t unique to this company. The official Sanders site has long sold “Feel the Bern” coffee cups. A web search reveals that many vendors are now hocking “Feel the Bern” clothes. Still, other Jewish politicians could get on the Sanders underwear marketing train. If California Senator DIANNE FEINSTEIN, 82, runs again, she should look into the catch phrase “Feelin’ Fein” and its lingerie appeal. Joining the Tribe Aged porn star Jenna Jameson will

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 nteibloom@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. be the subject of an Israeli TV reality show that features her conversion to Judaism in advance of her marriage to Los Angeles-based Israeli jeweler LIOR BRITTON, 41. Britton was convicted (2010) of serious insurance fraud, which makes me think their relationship is mostly about free publicity for both. I have no doubt that the conversion process will take place in

Los Angeles. There is no way Jameson will convert in Israel – that takes three years and 400 hours of classwork. Also, Us Weekly reports that New Girl actress Zooey Deschanel, 35, converted to Judaism not long before marrying producer JACOB PECHENIK, 40, last summer. Time will tell if this report is true.

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At the Movies December’s most anticipated new film is, of course, Star Wars, Episode VII: The Force Awakens. (Opens December 18.) It is set thirty years after The Return of the Jedi (1983). To be frank, except for the original Star Wars movie, film series creator George Lucas has not served his “franchise” that well. He directed and wrote the three Star Wars ‘prequels’ that were released from 1999-2002 (they were styled as episodes I, II and III). All three were critically panned. The two great sequels to the original, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, were co-written by LAWRENCE KASDAN, now 66, and it’s a good sign that he co-wrote The Force Awakens. Empire was directed by the late IRVIN KERSHNER and Jedi by Richard Marquand. Most agree they did a much better directing job than Lucas, himself (again, excepting the original flick). J.J. ABRAMS, 49, directs Force and he also co-wrote the screenplay. Among other credits, Abrams successfully re-booted the Star Trek movie series. Other veteran hands are on-screen: HARRISON FORD, 73, whose late mother was Jewish, returns as Han Solo, with CARRIE FISHER, 59, returning as Princess Leia. (Fisher’s late father, singer EDDIE FISHER, was Jewish, and Carrie identifies as Jewish. Ford has always been ‘very’ secular.) Here are two November 2015 openings with a notable Jewish connection. Look for them on DVD/streaming services. The Peanuts Movie features the voice of NOAH SCHNAPP, 11,

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December 2015

JEWISH INTEREST

Whispering in full voice: Jerry Greenﬁeld’s wine wisdom Book review by Philip K. Jason, Special to The Jewish News Secrets of the Wine Whisperer, by Jerry Greenfield. Creative Book Publishers International. 318 pages. $17.95.

ixing encyclopedic howto with personal narrative, Fort Myers marketing guru Jerry Greenfield has written a hilarious memoir of his passion for wine. Even someone with little or no interest in wine, like me, will find Mr. Greenfield’s “grapacious” journey delightful. For those who want to learn the ins (and inns) and outs of wine as delicacy, wine as hobby, wine as business, wine as investment, wine as social lubricant, wine as voPhil Jason cabulary builder, or wine as geography, Secrets is a must. The enthralled author carefully and wittily traces the steps of his passion for vino. His breezy chapters show us a man (accompanied by his wife) learning how to educate his palate, learning how to shop, learning how to store, learning how to appreciate the connection between the liquid in the bottle and the culture and soil of its origins. Once smitten, Mr. Greenfield and his wife heard themselves talking like this: “Well, there’s some cedar on the nose, but the first thing that hits me on the palate is the dark plum, with a little bit of eucalyptus kicking in at the finish.” He

continues, “We truly deserved to be severely beaten about the head and shoulders. Some of our friends began to hate us, while others called us during office hours from a wine store, wanting to know if 1997 was a good year for Burgundy. (It wasn’t.)” Full absorption requires that you enter a world of like-minded devotees and disengage from those supposed friends who just will not follow you into the valley of the grape escape. To allow yourself to be seduced by the wine muse requires that you become prepared to spend beyond your means – always. You will sign up for wine tastings large and small, praying for an opportunity to sip a bit of what you can never afford to buy. You will need to meet the vineyard owners and wine masters, as well as the renowned critics and standard-bearers. You will manipulate invitations to exclusive wine events and to the European estates at which the perfect mating of wine and (other) food is realized. Early in your mania, you will convert a guest room to a wine storage and tasting facility. Later on, you will build a house designed to feature the spoils (not spoilage) of your ferocious collecting: the wine Jerry Greenﬁeld shrine. The deeper your penetration into the tannic netherworld, the more you will need to surround yourself with the accoutrements; for example, cork-

screws and other kinds of cork pullers and bottle openers. You will need to take your stand in the battle between the cork lovers and the plastic stopper aficionados. You will be a lover of labels and logos. Your collection of glassware will be of the highest order, including specimens of the perfectly shaped vessel for each variety of wine. After all, if not served in the proper glass, a fine wine is being sacrificed to the devil. And so it goes, storytelling and useful information woven together. Smiles all along the way. It amazes me that throughout the thirty-eight chapters, Jerry Greenfield’s self-deprecating humor never flags. He knows that he has become a madman, and he revels in it. Or perhaps he’s only posing, cannily luring us into the thrills of discovery, pursuit, sensual delight

and blissful fellowship. Truly, by book’s end, the author has fully justified his flamboyant subtitle: “Or, How I Learned to Drink Wine and Found Ecstasy, Joy, Peace, Happiness, Life, and Salvation.” Nutty and fruity, yes, but with a trace of forest floor. Perfect for holiday gifting. For regular installments of Jerry’s online wine madness, visit www.the wine-whisperer.com. This review originally appeared in Florida Weekly and is reprinted with permission. 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.

Jerry Greenfield will be one of 23 authors presenting at the first annual Collier County Jewish Book Festival. For information, visit www.jewishbookfestival.org.

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JEWISH INTEREST

The Oneg Shabbat Archive By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD

n the Warsaw Ghetto, 75 years ago this month, a Polish-Jewish historian named Emanuel Ringelblum collected the first items of what -he called the Oneg Shabbat (or Sabbath Pleasure) Archive. Ringelblum was d born in Buchach (then in the AustroHungarian Empire) ” on November 21, e 1900. He moved to Nowy Sącz in 1914, and under the influDr. Paul Bartrop ence of two friends, e Raphael Mahler and Artur Eisenbach, he joined Poale Zion (Workers of Zion), a Jewish workers’ movement established throughout Russia at the start of the twentieth century. After the -party split in 1920, he moved further to the left, and played a major role in the organization’s Yiddish cultural work. In 1927 Ringelblum earned a docr torate in history from the University of Warsaw, and developed a reputation as an expert on early Polish Jewish history. After completing his thesis, he taught history at Yehudiya, a private secondary school for girls, before working for the Joint Distribution Committee. In November 1938 he was sent by the JDC to the Polish border town of Zbaszyn, where six thousand Jewish refugees from Germany were huddled with nowhere else to go. They had been expelled from Germany, but were forbidden from entering Poland. Ringelblum worked in coordinating relief efforts for these people – a duty that left him with much on which to reflect concerning the nature of good, evil and helping those in need. He later wrote a book, Notes on the Refugees in Zbaszyn, which gave a detailed perspective on the situation there. After Poland was invaded by the Nazis in 1939, Ringelblum and his family were forced into the Warsaw Ghetto. It took him little time to realize what he needed to do. He would collect information in secret regarding every facet of ghetto life, to serve as a comprehensive and permanent record of what the Nazis were doing to the Jews of Warsaw. He recruited a number of Jewish writers, scientists and other citizens to work with him in collecting diaries and documents; he organized studies to be undertaken; and he sent younger people out onto the streets to gather posters and announcements pasted around the ghetto. This all came together under the aegis of the Oneg Shabbat Archive, with the first items collected in December 1940. The archive would eventually come to comprise nearly 30,000 individual sheets of data relating to towns, villages, the ghetto, the resistance movement, other ghettos, the Chelmno and Treblinka death camps, and the effects of hunger and disease. While engaged in these activities, Ringelblum remained active in the dayto-day life of the ghetto. Working on behalf of the Jewish Social Aid organization, he organized welfare programs and soup kitchens, and tried to find other ways in which to help combat deprivation. At the same time, he also

co-founded, with Menahem Linder, the Yidishe Kultur Organizatsye, a society to maintain and advance Yiddish culture in the ghetto. The gathering of materials for Oneg Shabbat continued at least until late February 1943, but after then other events overtook the project. The resistance movement had already begun to fight back against the Nazis the previous month, and the liquidation of the ghetto seemed imminent. To continue his work, Ringelblum saw that he would have to escape, but before doing so he placed the archive into three large milk cans and several metal boxes, which were then buried around various parts of the ghetto. In March 1943 he and his family relocated to Warsaw’s Aryan side. After the ghetto uprising began on April 19 he returned. Captured, he was deported to the Trawniki labor camp, but in August 1943 managed to escape after having been helped by a Polish man and Jewish woman. He hid in an underground bunker with his wife Yehudis, son Uri, and 34 others. Here, he worked around the clock writing a history of Polish-Jewish relations during World War II, together with essays on key members of the Jewish intelligentsia. These writings, now known as Notes from the Warsaw Ghetto, survived and were published after the war. On March 7, 1944, the Germans discovered the hideout and seized all those inside. A few days later, Ringelblum, his family, and the other Jews with whom he had been hiding were taken into the ruined ghetto and murdered. Overall, only three members of the Oneg Shabbat movement survived the war: Hersh Wasser and his wife Bluma, and Rachel Auerbach. After the war, people searched for Ringelblum’s Archive in the ruins of the ghetto, with mixed results. In September 1946, ten metal boxes were found, and in December 1950 (65 years ago this month), two of the milk cans were located. Despite repeated searches, the rest of the archive, including the third milk can, was never found. The Jewish Historical Institute is a research establishment in Warsaw dealing primarily with the history of the Jews in Poland. Created in 1947, it was renamed in 2009 in honor of Emanuel Ringelblum. The centerpiece of the collection, the Warsaw Ghetto Archive, is the legacy of Ringelblum’s work with Oneg Shabbat, containing about 6,000 documents comprised of nearly 30,000 individual sheets. When combined with Ringelblum’s own writings, the Archive constitutes the most comprehensive repository in existence dealing with the daily experience of the Jews in Warsaw during the Holocaust. Thank you, Emanuel Ringelblum. Without your spectacular and heroic efforts, we would know much less about the Warsaw Ghetto than we do today, and be much the poorer for our ignorance. 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.

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December 2015 Join us at

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TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM

Sarasota-Manatee’s Conservative Synagogue

in december All Are Welcome! Come Join Us! ONGOING PROGRAMS Daily Morning Minyan

Sunday-Friday, 8:00am - 9:00am

Morning Minyan Breakfast Wednesdays 9:00am

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

Shabbat Shaboom

Saturdays, 10:30am - 12:00pm

Shabbat Shmooze Saturday, 1:00pm

Paver Religious School

Sundays, 9:00am - 12:30pm *Winter Break Dec 27th - No classes*

A Cup of Joe and the Five Books of Mo Tuesdays 9:15am -10:15am Leyen Kreis (Yiddish Reading Circle) Tuesdays 1:30pm - 3:00pm Chug Ivri (Advanced Hebrew) Thursdays 10:30am - 12:00pm

Judaica Shop

Tuesday-Thursday, 10am - 3pm Friday, 10am - 12pm Sundays, 11am - 1pm

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 12:00pm -1:30pm, Lunch & Learn Ruderman Lecture Series II Abraham Geiger – the Shaping of Reform Judaism Bring a dairy lunch. Class taught by Marden Paru. $5 non-member fee for materials. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 6:30pm & SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 9:00am Bar Mitzvah of Natanel Mizrahi SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 9:30am Men’s Club Breakfast & Learn Guest Speaker is Rabbi Ed Rosenthal, Hillel Director of the West Coast of Florida; his topic is: Hillel, Anti-Semitism and Israel, on the American College Campus SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 10:30am Bar and Bat Mitzvah Club A Sanctuary Experience – What will happen on your special day? WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 7:00pm Shmooze and Brews with Rabbi Werbow We will meet at Mandeville Beer Garden (428 North Lemon Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236) for an informal conversation, ask questions, share ideas and meet people THURSDAYS 12:00pm -1:30pm Lunch & Learn – Ma La’asot Exploring the dilemmas through the eyes of Jewish tradition Bring a dairy lunch. Eight-Week Series taught by Sue Spector. $40 non-member fee for materials.

TEMPLE BETH

SHOLOM

941-955-8121 OFFICE HOURS Monday – Closed Tuesday – Friday 9:00am–3:30pm *Closed Friday, December 25th

IDELSON LIBRARY HOURS* Volunteers are available Tuesday, 9:00am – 4:00pm

Thursday, 1:00pm – 4:00pm *Books can be checked out any time the office is open provided there is not a meeting in the Library.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 Approximately 7:00pm Chanukah Shabbat Dinner (Following our 6:00pm services) Join us for a Brisket Dinner including wine catered by Jo’els; $30/person. Open to the community. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 9:00am Bar Mitzvah Celebration of Hugh Schimberg SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 12:30pm USY (Youth Group) Latke Cook-off WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 1:15pm Idelson Library Film Matinee We will show Tijuana Jews with a question and answer session to follow. Refreshments will be served courtesy of the Men’s Club. Suggested donation – $3/Members, $5/Non-Members FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 5:30pm Kavanah Open House and Pot Luck Dinner We begin with cocktails and socializing, followed by an exciting musical Kavanah Shabbat Service, finishing with a Pot Luck Dinner. **Pot Luck Dinner Guidelines are available on our website** THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24 6:00pm Men’s Club Annual Kosher Chinese Buffet and Movie

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December 2015

ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

Teamwork a no-brainer for Arab, Israeli neuroscientists The current round of terror attacks has done nothing to stop brain scientists from Israel and Arab countries cooperating for unique conferences. By Abigail Klein Leichman, ISRAEL21c, www.israel21c.org, October 22, 2015

hmed El Hady is a 31-year-old Egyptian postdoctoral fellow at Princeton University’s Neuroscience Institute, studying the neural basis of decision-making. His decision to co-chair a scientific meeting of the minds between Arabs and Israelis was a no-brainer. Fellow scientists from the Arab world responded enthusiastically to his invitation to participate, he tells ISRAEL21c. The second such meeting, the NeuroBridges 2015 Conference held in Paris on September 7-9, featured six speakers hailing from Palestinian Authority-administered territories, Jordan and Egypt, as well as six French and six Israeli speakers on the topic of closing the gap between computational and practical neuroscience. “It did not take a lot of effort to convince participating scientists of the importance of such an event,” El Hady says. Participants represented themselves, not their countries of origin, as they shared their research. El Hady’s partners in NeuroBridges are neurobiologist Prof. Yonatan Loewenstein from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Prof. Gianluigi Mongillo from Université Paris-Descartes, which hosted the 2015 conference. Communicate, argue, cooperate “I was invited to give a seminar in Germany in 2013, and I met Ahmed there,” explains Loewenstein, who also researches decision-making. El Hady was then working toward his doctorate at the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self Organization. “I had a professional interest in his work, and we had an idea to do something together.”

For starters, El Hady came to the Hebrew University in 2014 to deliver a guest lecture at Loewenstein’s invitation. Things blossomed from there. The first NeuroBridges conference took place in summer 2014, hosted at Max Planck by Loewenstein, El Hady, and Tim Gollisch of Göttingen University. Although the timing fell out during the Gaza war, “the participating scientists from Israel and Arab countries proved that the relationship between them is not solely determined by the Arab-Israeli conflict and that they can communicate, argue and cooperate in spite of a war situation,” say the organizers. This initial success encouraged the organizers to plan the second NeuroBridges. “Surprisingly, there are very good energies. Everyone who hears about this project and those involved in this project are all very excited about it,” Loewenstein tells ISRAEL21c. “It’s like a waterfall: You remove an obstacle and all of a sudden the water flows. Even some of those who could not attend for various reasons were happy about the existence of the project,” Loewenstein says. “People really want to make a change and help make that change. Whether or not this change will come out of our meetings I don’t know, but I see part of my responsibility is to try.” Both men say the October terror attacks throughout Israel have not deterred them. “The current wave of violence is a horrific demonstration of what happens when moderates fail to set the tone. I am more determined than ever

to continue with our initiative,” says Loewenstein. “I agree with Yonatan,” says El Hady. “It is mandatory for intellectuals and academics to intervene to stop the spiral of dehumanization that has set the pretext for these attacks.” Professionally, personally satisfying El Hady reports that the two conferences held so far were fruitful on professional and personal levels. “The meetings have been very successful. On a personal note, I have been able to interact with Israelis when I began to work on my graduate studies, meaning that science was the only way I was able to meet an Israeli.” Loewenstein stresses that the formal sessions were focused purely on science. “I learned many new things, and I might form new collaborations with some of the people I met there,” he says. Politics inevitably came up in discussions during breaks and meals, he adds. “It was very interesting. There are many things that we learn about how we each view the conflict. “One of the Arab participants said that we as scientists are trying to think critically about the things around us, and it would be a good idea to think critically not only about what we read in the professional journals of neuroscience but also about how we see the world and our conflict,” Loewenstein continues. “He argued that scientists might find it easier [than others] to change their views in the face of new evidence.” However, the 43-year-old neurobiologist sees no reason why cross-national meetings couldn’t work just as well in other professions. “There are many at-

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tempts of all kinds to improve relations between Arabs and Israelis at different levels, and I think we should all try as best as we can independent of what our profession is,” says Loewenstein. El Hady agrees: “The goal is to provide a forum for scientific exchange, academic interaction and mutual understanding between Arab and Jewish scientists that transcend the ongoing conflict. It is meant to set an example that academic interaction can exist even in the existence of a war situation and political disagreement. I am very much hoping it provides an example for other disciplines to develop similar forums.” Those involved in NeuroBridges hope to establish a graduate school that brings together student neuroscientists to learn together while getting to know peers on the “other side.” “We’re not sure yet where it will be. It requires a local organizer and funding, but I’m sure we’ll be able to make it happen,” says Loewenstein. NeuroBridges receives support from the France-Israel Laboratory of Neuroscience and the Université Paris Descartes’ Institute of Neuroscience and Cognition and Fédération de Recherche en Neurosciences in Paris; the Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences at the Hebrew University; and the Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. 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 daily newspaper in New Jersey and has freelanced for a variety of newspapers and periodicals since 1984.

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ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

BRIEFS

NASA AND ISRAEL SPACE AGENCY sSIGN COOPERATION tAGREEMENT

Within the framework of the 66th Inrternational Astronautical Congress currently taking place in Jerusalem, NASA Administrator Charles Bolden ,and Israel Space Agency Director Gen-eral Menachem Kidron signed a widehranging cooperation agreement in gOctober. The new agreement, which is emore far-reaching and in-depth than its npredecessor in effect from 1996-2005, dwill enable NASA and ISA to cooperhate in the exploration and research of rspace for the betterment of mankind and for peaceful use. s At the signing ceremony, Administtrator Bolden said: “Our two countries shave had a long history of cooperation win space exploration, scientific discovery and research, and we look forward lto the opportunities this new agreedment provides us to build upon this partnership. You are known for your innovation and technology, and this agreement gives us the opportunity to fcooperate with Israel on the journey to sMars as we open up new opportunities efor all of our children.” ISA Chair Isaac Ben-Israel re;sponded that “Israeli space technology ris known for being extremely lightweight. Seeing that conserving energy -will be vital in any future mission to fMars, we expect our technology to play a key role in such endeavors.” d Among the potential areas of coroperation enabled by this agreement are: joint missions, personnel and sciaentific data exchanges, ground-based research facilities, space exploration sand operations missions, joint workshops and meetings, scientific instruments onboard aircraft and spacecraft, sounding rocket and scientific balloon flights, space communications, educational outreach, and other spacecraft and space research platforms. The goal of the agreement is to provide the framework for discussions of areas of cooperation between the agencies which could then lead to more specific agreements between the two sides. “The implications of this agreement for Israel’s space and scientific communities are tremendous,” said Minister of Science, Technology and Space Ofir Akunis. “The agreement provides us a platform for mutual cooperation between the Israeli and American space agencies, and thus allows the science communities in both our countries important access to projects that offer the promise of significant development and growth in the years ahead.” (Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

JERRY SEINFELD SET FOR ISRAEL STAND-UP DEBUT

Famed American comedian Jerry Seinfeld will make his professional debut in Israel in December, with a stand-up performance at Tel Aviv’s Mivtachim Menorah Arena. Seinfeld’s routine in Tel Aviv is part of a world tour. Asked about whether he’d add Jewish jokes to his set in Israel, the funnyman told Channel 2 news that his jokes are “all Jewish jokes, everything I’ve ever said is Jewish. When you’re Jewish everything you say is Jewish.” Seinfeld can currently be seen on his web series, Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee, on which he selects a vintage car for each guest. Asked which car he’d choose if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were to join him for a drive on the show, Seinfeld thought for a brief moment and then told Channel 2, “a tank. The man needs a tank. He needs some kind of protection.” Seinfeld last visited Israel in 2007, to promote The Bee Movie. He also volunteered on a kibbutz as a teenager.

But the comedian behind television’s wildly successful Seinfeld series, has yet to take the local stage. Tickets for the December 19 show in Tel Aviv sold out within a few hours of going on sale and organizers quickly added another show. Prices for tickets range from $65 to $234. (ISRAEL21c)

the State of Israel has been sending relief delegations abroad. Almost everywhere we go, we are the first to arrive, and in most cases, our contribution is the greatest in the period closest to when the disaster occurs. The Israeli temperament is well suited to functioning in disaster areas: we reach a site that is in complete chaos, and we know how to manage pretty well. We are able to handle authority, we know how to improvise, and we are good problem-solvers.  In Haiti after the earthquake, our staff numbered 240. It included nurses who had left their children behind at home, doctors, hospital department heads. Their readiness to help – to just drop everything and come work under difficult conditions – was amazing, living in tents, treating patients in intense heat and humidity, and with earthquake aftershocks all the time.  Our offering help to those wound-

ISRAEL IS WORLD’S 6TH HEALTHIEST COUNTRY

Israel is the sixth healthiest country in the world, according to recent world health rankings by Bloomberg. The rankings, which compiled data from the UN, the World Bank and the World Health Organization, placed Singapore in first place, followed by Italy, Australia, Switzerland and Japan. The UK ranked 21 and the U.S. 33. (Israel Hayom)

IN 35 YEARS, ISRAELI LIFE EXPECTANCY HAS RISEN BY NINE YEARS

In the last 35 years, life expectancy among Israelis rose significantly: 8.8 years for men and nine years for women, Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics reported Thursday. The average life expectancy of Israeli women is 84.1, and that of men is 80.3. Israeli men have the third-highest life expectancy among OECD countries. (Judy Siegel-Itzkovich, Jerusalem Post)

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ed in the Syrian civil war – it’s not for the public relations. Providing help makes us feel human. We’ve had our own disasters throughout history, and we were not always offered help. It is our responsibility, therefore, to be a “light unto the nations.” We’re talking about realizing a human obligation. Yes, they come from an enemy country, and we do not give them a pre-test to find out what they think about Israel, even while the hospitalizations cost us millions.  We know that it doesn’t change Israel’s image in the world. But we are creating ties with the enemy that are of a different nature. We are saying to them: you can live alongside us without fighting. If, one day, there will be a government there, and on both sides of the border there will be people who will say to themselves, “We know

continued on next page

WHY ISRAEL HELPS WORLDWIDE WHEN DISASTER STRIKES

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December 2015

BRIEFS continued from previous page from the past that we can gain from these mutual ties,” that will be our reward.  We, the Jewish people, must seek out the added value in life. It was the Zionist vision that insisted on revival through building. The Zionist perspective chose not to wallow in tragedy and in playing the victim. The highest expression of this value is the ability to help. We’ve been through it, we understand it, and we know how to help. (Maj.-Gen. Yair Golan, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, Times of Israel)

FACEBOOK TO LAUNCH ISRAELI SATELLITE TO BRING AFRICA ONLINE

Facebook, in collaboration with France’s Eutelsat Communications, will launch the Israeli-made AMOS6 satellite in 2016 to deliver Internet from space, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has announced.

ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

Facebook and Eutelsat will lease the AMOS-6 satellite from Israeli global satellite services provider Spacecom, the operator of the AMOS satellite fleet. The satellite, built by Israel Aerospace Industries, will be used to increase the number of African citizens online. While Facebook plans to beam the Internet down from space, Eutelsat will use it to expand its paid broadband connections. (Viva Sarah Press, ISRAEL21c)

ese and Israeli business leaders in Hanoi on Thursday, November 5, that the relationship of the two countries has expanded significantly in a wide range of areas. Vietnamese Ambassador to Israel Cao Tran Quoc Hai said agricultural technology, shrimp breeding production, medical equipment and drip irrigation technology were capturing the interest of Vietnamese firms. Two-way trade increased from $200 million in 2009 to almost $1.1 billion in 2014. (Vietnam News)

INCREASE IN ARAB STUDENTS ATTENDING UNIVERSITY IN ISRAEL

A MUSLIM INVASION OF EUROPE?

In the 2015/2016 academic year, 14.4% of bachelor’s degree students in Israel will be Arabs, compared with 9.8% in 1999/2000. In the same period, Arab master’s degree candidates rose from 3.6% to 10.5%, while Arab Ph.D. candidates doubled from 2.8% to 5.9%. (Ha’aretz)

VIETNAM, ISRAEL BOOST TRADE TIES

Deputy Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung told a conference of Vietnam-

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Since the beginning of January, more than 620,000 illegal migrants have arrived in Europe. By the end of December, there might be 1.5 million. Journalists in Western Europe continue to depict them as “refugees” fleeing war in Syria. The description is false. According to EU statistics, only 25% come from Syria; the true number is probably lower. The vast majority of migrants come from Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Eritrea, Somalia and Nigeria. Many do not seem to have left in a hurry. Many bring new high-end smartphones and large sums of cash. More than 75% are men under 50. Those who enter Europe are almost all Muslims. Cultural identities in Europe have been eroded to such a point that saying that Europe is based on Judeo-Christian values has become controversial. Any criticism of Islam in Europe is treated as a form of racism, and “Islamophobia” is considered a crime

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or a sign of mental illness. Polls show that a majority of Muslims living in Europe want the application of sharia law and clearly reject any idea of assimilation. They come from countries where Western civilization is despised and where hatred of Jews is inescapable. (Guy Milliere, Gatestone Institute)

U.S. DEFENSE SECRETARY PLEDGES TO BOOST ISRAEL’S MILITARY EDGE

U.S. Defense Secretary Ashton Carter pledged Tuesday, October 27, to enhance “the entire spectrum” of strategic cooperation with Israel, from cyber defense and high-end attack capabilities down to a joint program aimed at combating terror tunnels. Carter reiterated to visiting Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon the Pentagon’s longstanding commitment to maintaining Israel’s qualitative military edge. Carter pledged continued U.S. support for Israeli active defense programs against rockets and missiles, including Iron Dome, David’s Sling and Arrow. “This is one of the most trusted relationships we have in the world and so when we discover something that is critical to both of us, we share it, and we do that from electronic warfare to cyber to all kinds of...tremendous intelligence sharing...The alliance is a twoway street, and we appreciate what we get as well as what we give, and it’s an alliance that makes us stronger too.” (Barbara Opall-Rome, Defense News)

STABBING AT A WEST BANK SUPERMARKET – A BLOW TO COEXISTENCE?

A Palestinian stabbed an Israeli woman outside the Rami Levy supermarket in the Etzion Bloc on Wednesday, October 28. According to Western logic, including that of Israelis, Palestinians have a vested interest in keeping their jobs in stores and factories near the Jewish settlements in the territories. But some Palestinians – including the Palestinian Authority (PA) – see things differently. They fear that being involved in economic cooperation with Israelis will alienate the Palestinian people from “the struggle” and therefore must be prevented. This includes the Rami Levy supermarket chain. The PA is also opposed to workers who work in Israeli industrial zones in the West Bank. Therefore, Israel’s policy of positive economic gestures may convince the West of its good intentions, but the PA itself is opposed to these gestures. Five years ago, a Palestinian official in charge of boycotting economic cooperation with Israel visited the Rami Levy market to view her enemy. She found all her relatives, neighbors and acquaintances there purchasing their needs for the week. (Pinhas Inbari and Lenny Ben-David, Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs)

THE ECONOMIC COSTS OF PALESTINIAN UNREST IN THE WEST BANK

There are 14 Israeli industrial zones in the West Bank, including Adumim near Jericho with 330 factories, Barkan in Samaria with 160 factories in the zone between Jerusalem and Ramallah. The factories are involved in food processing, textiles, printing, furniture manufacturing, construction and plastics. More than 30,000 Palestinians are employed in these industrial zones, with some 20,000 more working in construction, transport, supply and agriculture. In total, more than 200,000 Palestinians make a living from activities in contact with Israel and represent more than one-quarter of the Palestinian workforce. (Dani Rubinstein, Calcalist-Hebrew-Worldcrunch)

continued on page 25A

December 2015

COMMENTARY

Be a Maccabee From the Bimah Rabbi Sholom Schmerling, Chabad of Venice & North Port

ll of us want this holiday to be a meaningful one. And so, it’s important for us to find some personal relevance and a contemporary message in this 2,200-year-old holiday. (For children, Chanukah Gelt and presents will infuse great meaning, but for us adults that might not cut it!) Yes, we can, and certainly should, light our menorahs and eat those latkes and doughnuts. But in order for Chanukah to resonate with us, let us attempt to uncover the holiday’s essential theme. Throughout our history many tyrants and empires have sought our annihilation. However, our enemy in the Chanukah story – the Greeks – had somewhat of a different agenda. Their goal was not our physical destruction. They wanted to put an end to our religious observance. “Kosher, Shabbat, circumcision! That’s old fashioned and primitive,” exclaimed the Greeks. “We live in a modern world with great culture, science, the Olympics (started by the Greeks) and philosophy. Can’t you give up your attachment and obsession with a bunch of archaic rules and super-rational beliefs?” The Greeks worshiped the body, logic, science and nature. And the notion that a People could adhere to a faith for no reason other than because G-d – Who transcends time, space or

reason – said so, was insulting and needed to be stopped. Thus, the Greeks sought to lure the Jewish people into their “modern” way of life and entice them to assimilate into Hellenistic culture. Unfortunately, the Greeks were somewhat successful. A large percentage of Jews fell prey to temptation, adopted a Greek lifestyle, intermarried and assimilated. And yet, there were a small, but strong, band of Jews – the Maccabees – who stood up and proudly proclaimed that faith and adherence to ritual observance is the “tree of life” that connects us to our source of life – G-d. The Maccabees were miraculously victorious. They rekindled the menorah, and restored the Jewish flame. The parallels to today’s day and age don’t require too much elaboration. We too are being told that religious and ritualistic observance is a thing of the past and old-fashioned. “We live in a modern age! Was Shabbat really meant to be observed in 2015?” exclaims conventional wisdom. And so, let us celebrate the message of Chanukah. Let us take on the responsibility of becoming the modern-day Maccabees. Let us find personal relevance in this holiday by strengthening our faith and commitment to Judaism and its beautiful traditions. And let us proudly exclaim, as the Maccabees did, “Who is like You (G-d)!” And let us be firmly rooted in our faith, thus ensuring that we ride the tide of assimilation and let our inner candles burn brightly for all to see. Seems like a daunting task and responsibility. The menorah teaches how to do it. One candle at a time! Until – on the eighth night – our entire menorah burns brightly. A happy Chanukah to you and your family!

23A

Letters to the Editor

he hawkish plan set out by Rabbi Howard A. Simon (November 2015 issue of The Jewish News) should be rejected by all who love Israel. I am Jewish, an American, and a Zionist from an early age when I was in Yeshiva. Simon’s proposal to sue the President is self-defeating and will lead to the failure of the current and successful deal to prevent Iran from having a nuclear weapon for at least 15 years. During this time there may be great changes in Iran’s leadership. To be taken in by the rhetoric of Iran’s current leaders is surely going to lead to Iran ignoring inspections, ignoring the “deal,” and getting a weapon quite soon. In fact, rather than “boycott” Iran to prevent trade with the United States, a better model is the development of cooperation between France and Germany. They were enemies from 1870 until the defeat of Germany in 1945. The current economic cooperation between these two countries ensures that they will not risk war because any war would be a disaster for both countries. Analogously, tying Iran’s economic future with the United States, and perhaps even with Israel, and making sure that if they do anything wrong (cheating, building a weapon, attacking Israel, etc.) they will lose the trade with the United States and that would be bad for Iran. So rather than disengage from Iran, it is better for the United States to work with Iran to make sure they feel that being a partner with us is better than being isolated. Rabbi Simon’s proposal, which

will probably lead to the deaths of American soldiers, is a prescription for disaster and will lead to a loss of any clout that Jews in America can have for influencing government policy. – Stephen Cooper, Longboat Key, cooper@umich.edu

hank you to The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee for coordinating the Israel Solidarity rally on Tuesday, October 27. Why did I come? As time goes by, Israel appears to be more isolated in the world, and I wanted to send a message they are not alone. Israel is constantly being demonized, whether it’s resolutions in the UN, BDS, European anti-Semitism, or the latest outrage, the stabbings and killing of innocent people, because they are Jews. Personally, what really gets me is how the mainstream media portrays these murders on equal footing when Israel is forced to respond. I wish we had a better turnout, with the rain and all. I know all of us want to live a comfortable and peaceful life, for you and your family. We all lead busy lives. Israel may seem far away for many of us, but we are intertwined by our faith and traditions. There are times in our lives when we have to take a stand, and say “Enough Is Enough.” Now is that time. Years from now, when your grandchildren ask you,” What did you do to help our people in Israel when their back was against the wall?,” you can proudly answer them. – Neil Klaber, Sarasota

What do you think?

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.

24A

December 2015

COMMENTARY

10 things about the latest wave of jihad By Yishai Fleisher, October 23, 2015 Editor’s note: This article originally appeared in Israel Hayom. It is reprinted here with the permission of the writer. he current state of affairs in Israel is full of lessons and truths. The sooner we learn them, the sooner we can stop the attacks. 1. We can stop feeling guilty. A few good things have come out of the recent wave of terror in the streets of Israel. The first is that the facade that jihadis are somehow struggling for self-determination, social justice, or any other noble idea has been unmasked. It is clear to us now that, unlike what we’ve been urged to believe for the last 30 years, jihadis don’t want peace. They want to annihilate Jews, Judaism, and the State of Israel. This is great news. Because once the pretense is dropped, we stop falling for it and begin unloading the guilty feeling that we are at fault for everything. We drop the idea, for example, that building in Jerusalem or Judea is causing this war. Those few voices who still try to blame the victims sound delusional and their ideas are being debunked. At the same time, there is a realization that within Israel is a hostile minority that simply does not accept the legitimacy of a Jewish state. Clarity is forming, and it will lead to victory. 2. The Jewish ﬁghting spirit is back. The second good thing is that the Jewish fighting spirit is back on the streets. Men and women, old and young, are responding to terror with defiance. Pepper spray, rolling pins, umbrellas, selfie sticks, kicks, fists, running, and especially shooting – Israelis are shooting bad guys (and gals). Yes, there have been some horrific videos of Jews being gouged as though we’re back in a medieval Polish countryside.

But even in those videos, soon enough, a gun-toting Jew vanquishes the jihadi zombie. We don’t cower and shriek as they wish we would, and it demoralizes them. Our people’s healthy fighting instincts have (amazingly) not been corrupted by the media, or by the ideology of weakness. Remember: Fighting back is good, so stay tactical out there, folks! 3. When we’re terriﬁed, they win. Speaking of videos and fear: Today’s video-centric world often works in the jihadis’ favor. Terrorists want to make us feel terrified. They try to achieve that by doing a terrible act and publicizing it, using video to drive terror into our hearts. If a viewer is terrified after watching the news or YouTube, then the terrorists have succeeded. Don’t let them. Don’t let them scare you. Don’t let them bully you. Don’t let them unnerve you. When you walk out of your house with a big fork in your bag, you are saying that you’d rather fight than be scared. When you don’t cancel that trip to Israel, you are saying that you will not be cowed. Remember, we Jews have always kicked bullies to the curb. From Abraham to King David to the Maccabees. We’ve fought the Babylonians, Greeks, Romans, and British, with tenacity and much success. The jihad bully is next. 4. Don’t mess with us. You’ll lose. The media, the U.S. administration and the U.N. are full of claims that Israel is using too much force, indiscriminately slaughtering innocent people in response to the jihad. This is classic anti-Semitic propaganda, blaming the Jews for some heinous crime that in reality is the work of the anti-Semite. (This tactic was also used in the blood libel and The Protocols of the Elders of Zion.) On the one hand, it is important

to correct those pervasive lies. But when Israelis intentionally and justly neutralize terrorists, it is important not to backpedal or mumble the pathetic formula that our army is moral or that we try to save the lives of the terrorists we just shot. Rather, it is much better to say, “You see? This is what happens when you mess with us.” In other words, we are one crazy little post-Holocaust country and we have zero tolerance for Nazi-like jihads, and if you start up with us, you will face our ire and our fire. Contrary to how the world makes it seem, it’s OK for us to want to survive, and it’s OK to say it. 5. Thanks, “world,” but we can take care of ourselves. Regarding “the world”: It will never come to our aid. We already knew that, learned it the hard way in the 1940s – that’s how the expression “never again” came to be. Part of the reason we established the State of Israel is because “the world” can’t be relied on to defend us. So why do we whine about “the world”? Please let us stop hoping that the U.N. and the EU will condemn someone other than Israel, and let us stop waiting for them. If we want to take care of business, then we have to do it ourselves. Self-determination takes determination and no one will clean up our mess or come to our rescue. Time to grow up, take charge, even lead. 6. Jihad is a force of chaos. On one level, what we are dealing with here is radical Islam’s fight against Israel, a Jewish, non-Muslim entity in the Middle East. On a deeper level, this fight is between two universal forces: the creative and the destructive. Israel is about life, innovation, clean water, farming, education, medicine, health

and prosperity. Israel is about enshrining the past and building the future. But jihadism is like a veil of darkness, repressive and regressive. It sees no value in individuals, and only seeks to suppress people into conformity. Everywhere the jihad goes, it brings entropy and chaos, the opposite of creativity and life. And jihad is not content with the regions of destruction under its control. Rather, it is bitterly jealous of that small green country in its midst. Jihad hates the Jewish state precisely because it is an oasis of life in the heart of its Middle Eastern desert. This distinction makes it all the more clear what value there is to jihad civilization – none – and they hate us for it. 7. Our kindness goes too far. However, while jihad is the enemy, out-of-control liberalism is its real enabler. Jihad exploits Western liberalism as a weakness and a portal to spread its venom. To defeat jihad, we have to root it out, deny it any ground in which to sprout, and be anything but liberal with it. We must not allow the extremists to teach jihadism in the schools, to rally on the Temple Mount, to blare out murderous messages from their minarets, and certainly not allow them to use the Knesset, for heaven’s sake, to spew their venom. We arrest them, hound them, chase them. They must know that if they have seditious thoughts, we can hear them, and we will find them. (For a model of how to fight the jihad, just look at our decidedly-not-liberalwith-jihad Egyptian neighbor, President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi.) It certainly won’t be easy to put the jihadi genie back in the bottle, but it must be done. It is a matter of our survival. 8. Don’t mess with Allah. Jihad is religious. It understands the

continued on next page

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December 2015

COMMENTARY continued from previous page language of God better than Western talk of compromise, negotiations, and peace processes. This is what I tell would-be jihadis in the streets of Jerusalem: “In 1948, we were 600,000 Jews in this land. Now we are 6 million. You have fought many wars against us, but you have never won. Have you ever wondered why? Are we more numerous than you? Are we richer than you? No. It is because Allah wills it and He has blessed us to build up this country. Even the Quran talks about the Jewish people coming home – yet you refuse to submit to Allah’s will. In the meantime, your countries have fallen apart. Where is Syria? Where is Iraq? Where is the strong Egypt of the past? Gone. Do you know why? Because jihad is destroying you, not us. If you keep fighting with us, it will be your own Islamic State that will destroy you, all because you did not accept and submit to Allah’s will.” I have used this argument many times and seen the initial shock and subsequent expressions of acceptance on their faces. In short, blame it on Allah. 9. We will never leave. And speaking of a language that jihadis understand, we must send them one unambiguous message: We are never, ever leaving. Arabs on the street ask me, “When will there be peace?” and I tell them, “There will be peace when you understand that we will never leave this land and never give up Jerusalem. We are more majnun [crazy] than you are about this place. So you might as well accept the reality. If you don’t, the war will continue, but we will win in the end, because we are never, ever, leaving.” Jihad gets courage from a sense of eventual victory. Take that away and replace it with a sense that the war against Israel is totally futile, a clear message that they will never win, and watch the jihadist motivation dwindle.

10. Jerusalem is at the heart of it. Finally, to defeat the jihad against Israel, we must realize that the epicenter of the struggle is Jerusalem. Jihadis want to keep us out of Jerusalem, out of the Old City, and certainly off the Temple Mount, because they sense correctly that the bedrock of their power (and ours) is Jerusalem. Holding on to Jerusalem and the Temple Mount gives them religious authority and clout, and keeps us from achieving our true potential as sovereigns of this land. Indeed, almost all of their anti-Israel propaganda has an image, emblem, or icon of the Dome of the Rock. They are fighting to take the heart of our story, Jerusalem, and replace it with their AlQuds. In the face of this assault, we must not retreat or relinquish any sovereignty in this city. We must not capitulate to the terror by dividing the city, or by keeping Jews away from the Temple Mount. Every person can be part of this fight: Visit Jerusalem, buy in Jerusalem, walk the streets of Jerusalem, pray in and for Jerusalem, and declare our rights to a sovereign and Israeli Jerusalem. In short, to beat the jihadis’ vision of Al-Quds, we must say the following phrase, and mean it: “Next year, and every year, in a rebuilt and united Jerusalem.” The jihad against us is only partly about physical violence. It is mostly about mental intimidation and exploitation of our weaknesses. Yet this challenge is also an opportunity: If we rise to the occasion, overcome fear, and beat back the jihadi scourge, then Israel will take its rightful place as a world leader in the defense of freedom, along with being a nation of innovation and the world’s spiritual superpower. Yishai Fleisher is an Israeli journalist, educator, NGO founder, and jurist. Follow him @yishaiﬂeisher.

25A

pilgrimage made to it even during hard times and at great personal risk, but also that there has never been a Muslim claim to the site.” “Anyone with eyes can see the despicable act of utilizing religion and faith in God for territorial gain and harming the sacred sites of another people. I find it hard to understand how a body like UNESCO, whose stated purpose is preservation of cultural and heritage values of the nations of the world, takes such a clear stand behind such an imaginary claim...Is this the way to build peace? By strengthening lies and fanning the flames?” (Jeremy Sharon, Jerusalem Post)

BRIEFS continued from page 22A

WESTERN WALL RABBI CONDEMNS UNESCO FOR DECLARING FOREFATHERS’ TOMBS AS ISLAMIC SITES

Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, the Supervisor of the Western Wall and the holy places, strongly condemned UNESCO for asserting in a resolution that the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron and the Tomb of Rachel on the outskirts of Jerusalem are an integral part of Palestine. The Cave of the Patriarchs is the most ancient Jewish shrine in the world and the second holiest site of pilgrimage in Judaism. Regarding the Tomb of Rachel, Rabinowitz wrote to UNESCO that “Centuries of documented history prove not only the deep and strong connection between the Jewish nation and this tomb, as is evidenced by the

RECONNECTING WITH DESCENDANTS OF SPANISH AND PORTUGUESE JEWS

Lisbon has begun bestowing Portuguese citizenship upon descendants of Sephardic Jews who were persecuted on the Iberian Peninsula some 500

continued on page 26A

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26A

December 2015

A Humanistic Chanukah By Alice D’Souza

he season of Chanukah is coming, with lots of light, happiness and family gatherings. Chanukah is also a time of great conflict for many of us. Since it’s so close to Christmas, when we go to the malls with our children and grandchildren, they love all the decorations, the lights, the trees and the pretty packages placed around the mall. Alice D’Souza In spite of Separation of Church and State, kids in school talk of nothing but the coming of Christmas, Elf on a Shelf, Santa and all the trappings. Our children want to be a part of the holiday, not for the religion but rather for the gala and glitz. They don’t want to feel left out and we don’t want them left out. Some of us put blue lights on the porch, put the menorah in the window, get a small gift for the children for each of the eight days of Chanukah, and celebrate. We sprinkle the table with gelt, get out the dreidel, talk about the Maccabees, and enjoy latkes and jelly donuts fried in oil. For Humanistic Jews, Chanukah is a celebration of human courage. The flickering Chanukah lights are a reminder of the struggle, courage and fragile triumphs of the Jewish people. The flames are a link to the past and a tribute to the dignity of Jews everywhere. In my house, I tell the story of Judith feeding Holofernes cheese, which makes him thirsty. She then gives him wine to drink, which makes him drunk. Then Judith cuts off his head. This story gets the attention of my grandchildren, and I can then move on to our celebra-

Jerusalem Post Crossword Puzzle Solution to puzzle on page 14A

tion. Each night, the children look forward to the stories about the celebration and lighting the candles. We have two menorahs, one for each child to light. This year will be a bit different. There have been big changes in the world this year, many concerning. My grandchildren are very young but never too young to learn the value of life, the value of living in a pluralistic society, the value that it’s okay to be different. We’ll talk about the massive refugee crisis, who these people are, why so many countries don’t want them, and how we can help. Not too long ago it was us, we Jews looking for a safe haven and there was none to be found. This year we’ll talk about our own country and the many people with a microphone talking loudly about the unworthiness of people of a different color, with a different accent, a different religion, not born in our country, etc. We should never forget that to be silent is to give approval. We at the Congregation for Humanistic Judaism are from very different backgrounds of family, religion and location. We are here because we have found a home that embraces our history and culture without dogmatic theistic ideas. We are able to control and be responsible for our actions. We identify with the history, culture and future of the Jewish people. The ongoing struggle for human dignity is a product of human decision and action. Our Jewish heritage is precious to us. Humanistic Judaism is a fusion of the Jewish values of loving-kindness and charity with the collective effort of making the world a better place in the future, for all people (tikkun olam). I can never speak of Humanistic Judaism without mentioning Rabbi Sherwin Wine (1928-2007), the intellectual framer of Humanistic Judaism. In 1963, Rabbi Wine left the Reform temple he was serving in Windsor, Ontario, to found the Birmingham Temple in suburban Detroit, the first congregation of Humanistic Judaism. With Rabbi Wine as its leader, the congregation eliminated the name of God from services, creating humanistic rituals focused on humanistic values. His wisdom and joy lives on in all of us. The Humanistic Jewish movement has grown from those early beginnings, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2013. Rabbi Wine’s wisdom and joy lives on in all of us. Alice D’Souza is the President of the Congregation for Humanistic Judaism in Sarasota.

COMMENTARY

BRIEFS continued from page 25A years ago. Since October 2 in neighboring Spain, 4,302 people have begun the bureaucratic citizenship process based on similar laws, as a way of making amends for the historical crimes committed during the Inquisition.Recently, the new Knesset Caucus for the Reconnection with the Descendants of Spanish and Portuguese Jewish Communities was launched, directed by Ashley Perry, a longtime adviser to the Foreign Ministry. To Perry, a Sephardi Jew born in England, the descendants of Jews who were expelled during the Inquisition could instinctively be natural supporters of Israel. Perry recently founded Reconectar, an organization whose mission is to facilitate this reconnection. MK Robert Ilatov noted these descendants “stand in the tens of millions around the world” and that “many of them are interested in exploring their Jewish roots...Our role is to assist them in this task.” (Amanda Borschel-Dan, Times of Israel)

FREE MDA SELF-DEFENSE AND FIRST-AID WORKSHOPS IN ISRAEL

Israel’s Magen David Adom emergency services offered free, two-hour self-defense and first-aid workshops at its first-aid and ambulance stations around the country recently, in cooper-

ation with the Israel Judo Association, which presented fundamentals on selfdefense. There are many examples of how people wounded in terrorist attacks were saved with basic first aid. The workshops will focus on treating victims stabbed with knives or suffering from gunshot wounds. (Jerusalem Post)

THOUSANDS OF ISRAELIS JOIN LAWSUIT AGAINST FACEBOOK OVER PAGES INCITING VIOLENCE

Some 20,000 Israelis, organized by the Israel-based non-profit Shurat HaDinThe Israel Law Center, joined a civil lawsuit filed on October 26 in the Supreme Court for the State of New York, seeking an injunction against Facebook for allowing jihadists to openly recruit and train terrorists and plan terror attacks on its pages. The law center wants to force Facebook not only to remove the terrorists’ pages, but also to better monitor and block users who post videos glorifying and encouraging terrorist attacks, and publish messages with instructions on how to carry out an attack. “Facebook has been transformed into an anti-Semitic incubator for murder,” said Israeli attorney Nitsana Darshan-Leitner, director of Shurat HaDin. A spokesman for Facebook said, “We urge people to use our reporting tools if they find content that they believe violates our standards.” (Malia Zimmerman, Fox News)

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December 2015

FOCUS ON YOUTH

Jewish building blocks in education

27A

, -

s e

g )

Education Corner By Chanie Bukiet

hen educating children, one k may think that a drastic lifet altering change is needed -to effect a desired result. It’s tempting to take this view. It’s sometimes easier to choose a one-time exciting ’change over small, repetitive changes dover time. But true education happens gover the small, incremental, sometimes dmonotonic steps of day-to-day life. n Recently our family traveled to Jacksonville for our son Zalman’s an-nual evaluation at Hope Haven. Zal-man has Down syndrome and has ,received many therapies since birth to accelerate his physical and mental edevelopment. It was wonderful to see dhow the little exercises we do with Zalrman daily – the whistle blowing and articulation exercise, the hippotherapy and sensory stimulation, and more –

are displaying marked signs of facilitating Zalman’s development. As we were driving home, truly kvelling from the positive report, we were reminded of a concept in Judaism called Maalim Bakodesh – ascending in holiness. With Chanukah arriving, it’s interesting to note a Talmudic dispute between two towering sages of the Talmud – Reb Shammai and Reb Hillel – regarding the manner in which we light the menorah. Shammai posited that we need to light the menorah in descending order, lighting all eight candles on the first night, seven candles on the second night and so on and so forth, deducting one candle every night. Hillel claimed that we need to light the menorah in ascending order, beginning with one candle on the first night, two on the second, and so on and so forth, adding one candle every night. Jewish law holds that we light the Chanukah candles as Hillel prescribed, teaching us the concept of ascending in holiness. There is a systemic step-by-step process to spiritual growth. We don’t start big, making one life-altering, unsustainable change, and then spiraling downwards. Rather, we start small and keep on taking little, sustainable, ascending steps as we travel on our spiritual journey. When we deal with children, this concept is even more important. It can

Goldie Feldman Academy holds cybersecurity event

n recognition of October as National Cybersecurity and National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month, Goldie Feldman Academy hosted parents and their children, ages 11-16, to a seminar, “Who is Chatting with Your Children? When Social Media Isn’t Sociable,” to learn about online threats and how to protect their families.

Lt. Timothy Enos of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, Special Operations Bureau, Youth Services Section, led a targeted program for parents. He offered resources and advice for staying on top of children’s online activities. Andrea Medred, a prevention educator from the Child Protection Center, led an age-appropriate program for children. She talked about how to use technology safely and also discussed some of the potential consequences of unsafe behavior. “At Goldie Feldman Academy, we are committed to educating the whole child while equipping them with 21st century skills. We have a 1:1 Chromebook Program GFA Head of School Dan Ceaser, CPC prevention educator in seventh and eighth Andrea Medred, school benefactor Laura Hershorin, grade – but we can Lt. Timothy Enos of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce only protect our kids from external digital threats while they’re on campus,” said GFA Head of School Dan Ceaser. “In this day and age, it’s crucial we prepare young people for the dangers that are out there while also reminding them of the importance of being kind and respectful to Andrea Medred leads the children’s program one another, both in during GFA’s recent cybersecurity program person and online.”

S.K.I.P

F O R M O R E I N F O CO N TAC T: ANDREA EIFFERT 941.552.6308 O R A E I F F E RT @ J F E D S R Q.O R G

Send-A-Kid-to-Israel Program

be overwhelming for children to learn big concepts at once. If a concept is too complex for the child to grasp, the lesson cannot sustain itself. True, lasting education is made with small incremental teaching blocks, building step by step on what was taught previously. If this applies to regular education, how much more so for Jewish education, which affects the very essence of our children, their souls. When we educate our children about Judaism, it is beneficial to do so in the spirit of Maalim Bakodesh, adding in good deeds and positive Judaism, step by step, little by little, one day at a time. There’s no need to make an overnight overhaul of our life, Rather, making every day a Jewish building block, building on the spiritual progress of the day before, can lead to an amazing

connectivity with G-d. Whether we begin by teaching our children to put a penny in a charity box, educating them to say a blessing to G-d before eating food, teaching girls to light candles on Friday night, or showing boys how to wear a kippah, these small steps educate our children in a lasting way, to do his or her part in making this world a better world for all and one where G-d can feel comfortable. May this step-by-step, ascending approach to Jewish education give us many opportunities for true Jewish nachas from our children! Happy Chanukah! Chanie Bukiet is program and educational director at Chabad of Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch.

CHUGIM

ENRICHMENT

PROGRAM

The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and the Shapiro Teen Engagement Program invite all local high school teens to participate in the CHUGIM ENRICHMENT PROGRAM.

THIS SERIES WILL FEATURE MOSAIC AND AIKIDO See course descriptions below for more information.

SERIES 2: MOSAIC ART WITH INSTRUCTOR ELLEN TISHMAN Ellen Goldberg Tishman is an experienced Jewish educator, designer, artist and arts administrator. She is a strong supporter and practitioner of arts integration, always encouraging the making of connections between topics, especially Judaism and the arts. She holds her MA in Art Education from University of Florida and BFA from Syracuse University. 6:30–8:30 PM DATES • November 18 – Introduction to Mosaic Design • December 2 – Mosaic Technique and Assemblage • December 16 – Mosaic Grouting and Completion Fee: $75/series, $15 materials fee (6 student min/10 student max) LOCATION The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee • Desenberg Conference Room 580 McIntosh Rd. • Sarasota, FL 34232 Students in this class will gain knowledge about this ancient art form as they learn the basics of mosaic design and create their own one-of-a-kind personal artworks. This class will incorporate traditional and modern methods and materials as students learn to design layouts, and apply newly acquired skills like tile cutting, gluing and grouting. No experience is necessary. SERIES 3: AIKIDO WITH SENSEI BARRY TUCHFELD Barry Tuchfeld is the Sensei of Traditional Aikido of Sarasota. He is a Sandan (3rd Degree Black Belt) and Certified Aikido Instructor (Fukushidoin) by Takemusu Aikido Association. He has trained Aikido for 22 years, including direct training with the late Saito Sensei in Iwama, Japan. In addition to conducting leadership seminars using Aikido-based principles, he has developed and facilitated workshops for special groups like people with cancer and PTSD. DATES 6:30–8:30 PM • January 6 – A Martial Art for Peaceful Warriors • January 20 – Introduction to Buki Waza and the Boken (Wooden Sword) • February 3 – The Power of a “Walking Stick” Fee: $75/series* (6 student min/14 student max) *Students who complete this series are eligible for a one-month credit and free training uniform should they continue to study with Sensei Barry at his studio. LOCATION Traditional Aikido of Sarasota • 803 Bell Road • Sarasota, FL 34240 Students will be introduced to a non-competitive martial art, Aikido, and how it relates to the warrior tradition in Judaism. The overall focus is to provide students with a foundation for self-development and self-protection. Each workshop will include easy-to-learn self-protection techniques, a didactic component and group conversation.

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

To register, visit jfedsrq.org/events QUESTIONS? Contact Andrea Eiffert at 941.552.6308 or aeiffert@jfedsrq.org

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December 2015

FOCUS ON YOUTH

GFA students to partner with NASA to replicate space tomato trials

oldie Feldman Academy will be one of only a few select Sarasota schools to partner with NASA on an important research project: developing a sustainable food production system, which NASA had announced as the next real step to manned space travel to distant planets such as Mars. Beginning in late 2015, NASA astronaut scientists will begin research experiments as they try to grow “flowering veggie” tomato plants from seeds on Earth and then in outer space, on the International Space Station (ISS). NASA researchers are working to per-

fect a sustainable food production system for astronauts in space on the ISS and in long-range space flights to follow. GFA is grateful to supporter Ed

Rosenthal for this opportunity. Rosenthal is the founder and CIO of Florikan ESA, which developed the fertilizer that will be used by NASA to grow vegetables in space. GFA students will have the opportunity to replicate the NASA research by growing in the Papa Ed and Mimi Rosenthal Organic Kibbutz Sustainability Garden the same variety of tomato seeds – Red Robin – with the same Florikan Nutricote controlled release fertilizer formulation with which NASA will be conducting its research experiment on Earth, and later in orbit on the ISS. The agriculture science

students will then write up a research trial protocol and send their conclusions to NASA for its review. The planting and harvesting is slated to take place in the fall and repeated again in the spring.

Temple Sinai’s SAFETY youth groups update By Deb Bryan, Temple Sinai Youth Director

• K •O

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 jfedsrq.org

16 i r ti t y cip ant s.

•L•U•

ar to ice re v f r thi yo m Se s new y t i u n om pa u rs C m o m c w ill m n an eet Jewish teens, ear dh lub c ave e to e a bla r f st! All activities are

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servi

MASA ISRAEL TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIP

0 2015 –2

only one thought: We can’t wait until Winter Regional in December!” As busy as SAFETY was that weekend, JOOSY had their own fun in Sarasota the following weekend. On Sunday, October 18, eight of our youth groupers gathered for an afternoon of not just bowling, but bowling instruction provided by Brandon Thorpe, a Riverview High School student. Brandon is a youth bowler who competes at the state and national levels, and he provided quality group instruction to our JOOSY kids who then got into teams and showed their stuff! After a couple of games, pizza and awards, it would be safe to say that everyone had a fantastic time! For more information about our SAFETY (grades 9-12) and JOOSY (grades 6-8) youth groups, please contact me at dbryan@sinaisrq.org or visit http://www.templesinai-sarasota.org/ youthgroup.php.

Cl ub

here’s a saying that goes like this: “Time flies when you’re having fun.” NFTY-STR proved this once again with this year’s Fall Kallah (October 9-11) at Congregation of Reform Judaism in Orlando. Sam Sklar, SAFETY’s Religious and Cultural Vice President (RCVP), said this about the weekend: “It was as fun as it was short. From the moment we arrived we were met with exciting and creative activities and mixers. Throughout the Kallah, kids took part in fun activities like staring contests, but then had more serious group discussions about college. These were the moments that helped everyone get to know the people around them while creating a true bonding experience. There were games, wonderful sermons, and an awesome dance on Saturday night. Although it was brief, we still created lasting memories. As we packed our bags for home, we all had

Klingenstein Jewish Center, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 Andrea Eiffert, Director of S.T.E.P. and Family Programs 941.552.6308 • aeiffert@jfedsrq.org

MAY 1-15, 2016

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25 • 4:00–6:00pm PURIM CARD AND MASK DECORATING Get creative! You will be making handmade Purim cards and decorated masks for participants in the JFCS SOS (Senior Outreach Service) program.

THURSDAY, APRIL 7 • 4:00–6:00pm ARTS DAY Have fun and do a mitzvah! Create a work of art at Painting With a Twist: a fun art studio where experienced local artists provide step by step instruction to help you craft a one of a kind piece to donate to participants in the JFCS SOS (Senior Outreach Service) program. Space is limited – registration required. First come, first served.

OF THE LIVING 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 jfedsrq.org QUESTIONS? Contact Orna Nissan at 941.552.6305 or onissan@jfedsrq.org

To register please visit: jfedsrq.org/events QUESTIONS? Please contact Andrea Eiffert 941.552.6308 or aeiffert@jfedsrq.org

Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota FL 34232

941.371.4546 • jfedsrq.org

December 2015

FOCUS ON YOUTH

29A

Temple Emanu-El celebrates Simchat Torah and honors religious school students

emple Emanu-El filled the sanctuary with joyous spirit in celebrating Simchat Torah at a special family service. In an annual, much-anticipated ritual, members and guests unrolled an entire Torah scroll around the sanctuary. Congregants of all ages held the sacred scroll as Rabbi Brenner Glickman and Director of Education Sabrina hSilverberg recited the last words of the -Torah – recounting the death of Moses – and its opening verses, describing -the first days of Creation. The entire dcongregation was honored with the

aliyah and chanted the Torah blessings together. Following the reading, everyone joined in dancing with the Torah scrolls as the choir sang an upbeat, delightful medley of holiday songs. During the celebration, Temple Emanu-El also consecrated 18 new religious school students. Students who will be having their B’nai Mitzvah ceremonies in the coming year were also honored, and each received a personal prayerbook. Smiles and pride filled the faces of all assembled, with everyone delighting in these wonderful students. “We are so excited to welcome

Above: Temple Emanu-El Religious School family Lori, Jackson and Nicholas Cutler helped hold the unrolled Torah scroll at the service At right: Rabbi Brenner Glickman and Director of Education Sabrina Silverberg welcomed 18 new religious school students at Consecration

n n h f a s d n o a t

t /

our consecrants!” Sabrina Silverberg stated. “Our new students represent the promise for Jewish continuity, and that gives us a lot of pride and satisfaction. We are thrilled to welcome them to their Jewish studies and look forward to sharing all the fun and learning with them. “We are thrilled to congratulate 24 candidates for entering their B’nai Mitzvah year,” she added. “Our cup runneth over! It is our hope that they have a meaningful process of preparation, and we can’t wait to see each one of them shine on their special day!”

PJ Parents Workshop Series Temple Emanu-El’s 24 B’nai Mitzvah candidates were presented with their prayerbooks, with special covers crafted by Sandy Ainbinder and Joanne Maguire

Thanks to a generous grant from the COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF SARASOTA, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, PJ Library, The Harold Grinspoon Foundation, and Temple Beth Sholom are partnering to bring PJ Library parents a very special event:

TURNING BEDTIME BATTLES INTO BEDTIME BLESSINGS TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15 • 7:00 – 9:00 PM

Looking to connect with other members of the Jewish community? NEWCOMERS EVENT on page 9B S ee the

The Jewish Federation would like to welcome you to the area!

We hope you feel at home and become active members of the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish community.

Questions? Contact Ilene Fox at ifox@jfedsrq.org or 941-343-2111

Perq Coffee Bar • 1821 Hillview Street • Sarasota, FL 34239 Create peace in your home through solid bedtime routines and inclusion of a Jewish approach to bedtime. Infuse your evening with coffee, tea and a taste of bedtime routines. Hear from a Developmental Specialist on the importance of solid bedtime routines for your family and hear from Rabbi Michael Werbow on how to include Jewish rituals and activities into this routine as well.

FREE to PJ Library Subscribers!

QUESTIONS? Contact Rabbi Michael Werbow at 941.955.8121 SAVE THE DATE FOR AN UPCOMING PJ PARENTS WORKSHOP January 24, 2016 – Raising a Mensch

Goldie Feldman Academy, Temple Emanu-El & Community Foundation of Sarasota

To register, go to: jfedsrq.org

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If you are a high school or college student, a leader, and passionate about Israel advocacy, apply today at

jfedsrq.org

For more information, contact Andrea Eiffert at 941.552.6308 or aeiffert@jfedsrq.org

jfedsrq.org Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota FL 34232

941.371.4546 • jfedsrq.org

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December 2015

SRQUSY gets “Messy with Mercaz”

By Isadora Gruber, SRQUSY Vice President of Programming

riday, October 9 through Sunday, October 11 were, by far, the best three days of the month! Several members of the SRQUSY youth group attended the “Messy with Mercaz” USY Sub Regional Convention in Tampa. Jewish teens from all over Florida came together to have a meaningful and fun weekend. Over the weekend,

our annual Latke Cook-Off at Temple Beth Sholom on Sunday, December 13. This is a joint event with Kadima, so middle schoolers are welcome to attend. The second event, a youth Shabbat, is planned for Friday, December 18. This night, a 5:30 p.m. Open House will be followed by the 6:30 p.m. Kavanah service, led entirely by the members of USY, and conclude with a potluck dinner. Please keep to the kosher guidelines and sign up for the potluck, both found on the home page at templebethsholomfl.org. Our events provide opportunities for teens to have fun with friends and express their Judaism. Temple Beth Sholom’s youth groups are open to all Jewish youth, regardless of temple affiliation, as Isadora Gruber, Jessica Zimmerman, Amanda Green, we seek to create an inAlex Hannan, Hannah Levison explored Judaism while making friends at the “Messy with Mercaz” USY convention formal setting in which we prayed together and had discuschildren and teens can connect to their sion groups about events involving Jewish identities through social, culIsrael. On Saturday night, everyone tural, spiritual and community service went outside and had a great time getactivities. ting messy, which involved a lot of For more information on joining paint and hilarious games. or attending these events, contact our To keep the fun going, our local Youth Advisor, Jessica Zimmerman, chapter, SRQUSY, has planned two at jessica.zimmerman12@ncf.edu. events in December. The first event is

FAMILY jfedsrq.org

THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.

FOCUS ON YOUTH

Take the STRESS and GUESS

Out of College Admissions

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COLLEGE PREPARATION AND INFORMATION SERIES

Presented by Debra Landesberg, M.S. Founder of My College Resource in partnership with The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

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WHERE´S THE MONEY? FAFSA, Scholarships, and More! January 13, 2016 • 7– 8:00 • Scholarships- local, private, organizations, foundations, endowments, national, college-based • Grants • Merit Aid • Need Aid • Institution Aid • FAFSA, CSS Profile • Learn how financial aid is determined and how to maximize scholarships!

FREE

All presentations designed for 8-12TH grade students and families. Applicable points will be emphasized for each grade.

U P C OM ING PRESENTATIO NS

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 Surf’s Up! What Are You Doing This Summer? MARCH 9, 2016 Specialty Topics – Visual/Performing Arts/Athletics APRIL 13, 2016 Beat the Curve in College Admissions The Zell Room at The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee 580 McIntosh Road

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED AT JFEDSRQ.ORG

For additional information about this series, please contact Debra Landesberg, M.S. at DL@MyCollegeResource.net or 941-704-5553

Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232

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MyCollegeResource.net

NOW AVAILABLE AT MORE THAN 50 LOCATIONS! SARASOTA • SRQ Chamber of Commerce • SRQ Visitors’ Center • Selby Public Library • Newsrack across from Hollywood 20 • Ringling Post Office • St. Armand’s Circle – John Ringling Blvd. • St. Armand’s Circle – Blvd. of the Presidents • Bayfront Park • Nellie’s Deli • Villa Grande • JFCS • Gulf Gate Library • Einstein Brothers Bagels • Landings Racquet Club • Publix at Landings Plaza • Silverstein Institute

SARASOTA • The Jewish Federation Campus • Lakehouse West • SRQ Memorial Hospital – Outpatient • Morton’s Gourmet Bakery • Art Building • Bahia Oaks Lodge • Health Complex East Ave • Kobernick Anchin/Benderson • Fruitville Library • Temple Emanu-El • Temple Beth Sholom • Temple Sinai • Chabad of Sarasota • Founder’s Club • Bird Key Park Newsrack • Temple Beth Israel • Longboat Key Newsrack – Gulf of Mexico Dr. & Cedar St.

LAKEWOOD RANCH/ BRADENTON • Northern Trust Bank • Legacy Golf Club • SMR Corporate Bank • Country Pancake House • Intercoastal Medical Group • FCCI Insurance Group • University Park Country Club • The Meadows • Palm Aire Clubhouse • LakeRidge Falls • LWR Chamber of Commerce • University Cleaners LWR • Dreams Jeweler LWR • Bradenton Library • Bradenton Post Office • Publix at University Pkwy • Bank of America LWR • Women/Children’s Center

LAKEWOOD RANCH/ BRADENTON • Lake Club • Chabad of Bradenton VENICE • The Jewish Congregation of Venice • Venice Public Library • Venice Community Center • Jacaranda Public Library • Chabad of Venice & North Port

Make sure to tell your friends and neighbors! Contact 941.371.4546 x 107 to become a subscriber & receive your copy in the mail

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December 2015

LIFE CYCLE ANNIVERSARIES

60 Myrna & Herbert Lauber Temple Sinai 55th Dr. Bart & Joan Levenson Temple Emanu-El 45th Jordan & Rookie Shifrin Temple Emanu-El 45th Gloria & Bill Weed Temple Emanu-El 40th Lori & Glenn Greenbaum Temple Sinai th

20 Russell & Lori Clark Temple Emanu-El 20th Steven & Gail Ludmerer Temple Emanu-El 15th Rabbi Jonathan & Marty Katz Temple Emanu-El 10th Allen Piassick & Sharon Lantheaume-Piassick Temple Emanu-El th

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Sarasota-Manatee Chevra Kadisha

Please submit your life cycle events (births, B’nai Mitzvah, anniversaries, weddings) to

TAHARA

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B’NAI MITZVAH

Jordan and Justin Elliott, sons of Rob Elliott and Shari Elliott of blessed memory, December 19, Temple Emanu-El Aiden Pearson, son of Brad and Michelle Pearson, grandson of Joanne Maguire, great-grandson of Thelma Maguire, December 26, Temple Emanu-El

Photos are appreciated; email as JPGs at 300ppi.

admin 941.224.0778 men 941.377.4647 941.484.2790 women 941.921.4740 941.349.3611 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237

IN MEMORIAM

Martin Borofsky, 93, of Sarasota, formerly of Concord, NH, October 14 Diane J. Feit, 74, of Bedford, MA, formerly of Sarasota, September 20 Fran Goldberg, 87, of Sarasota, formerly of Framingham, MA, September 17 Ronald Gossett, 82, of Muskegon, MI, formerly of Sarasota, October 9 Howard M. Greber, 65, of Sarasota, formerly of Philadelphia, PA, October 10 James R. Hutchens, 65, of Sarasota, formerly of Cincinnati, OH, September 28 Richard “Dick” Joseph, 78, of Sarasota, formerly of New York, September 23 Murray Lowenthal, 88, of Sarasota, October 22 Dr. John R. Pelton, 56, of Sarasota, September 12 Betty L. Piker, 89, of Sarasota, October 24 Dr. Anita Plutchik, 81, of Sarasota, formerly of New Rochelle, NY, October 4 Beth Ann Salzman, 75, of Sarasota, formerly of Bedford, NH, October 18 Annette L. Swarzman, 96, of Sarasota, formerly of Great Neck, NY, October 12 Leonard Weinstein, 98, of Sarasota, formerly of Westport, CT, October 22

During times of neeD for generations Jewish members of sarasota & manatee County Communities have turneD to toale brothers.

Visit the Federation website to sign up!

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Gerry Ronkin OFFICE

3 generations of toale family management

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Jewish Family Coordinator

loCally owneD & operateD for over 100 years

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

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SHA LOM BA BY MOMMY & ME Join us for a gathering of mommies and babies to sing Jewish and/or Israeli children’s songs and bond with other moms every fourth Friday of the month!

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December 2015

COMING SOON TO THE VAN WEZEL JIM WITTER ‘THE PIANO MEN II’ Jan 13

MICHAEL FEINSTEIN

JOSHUA BELL

Swing Me A Love Song

Feb 18

Jan 30

THE

JERUSALEM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA March 1

Danielle Akta Cellist

Dmitry Yablonsky Cellist/Conductor

Jan 14

LINDA EDER

with Robert Cuccioli March 24

Feb 17 Written by

WOODY ALLEN Based on the Screenplay of the Film BULLETS OVER BROADWAY by

Woody Allen and Douglas McGrath Original Direction and Choreography by

SUSAN STROMAN

March 9

CZECH NATIONAL ORCHESTRA March 21

SOPHIA LOREN March 31

Box Office: 941.953.3368 Online: vanwezel.org

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March 10

Box Office Hours: M-F 10a-6p, Sat 10a-4p, Open Later & Sun on Show Days.

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Sponsors: The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, Wilde Lexus of Sarasota, Herald-Tribune Media Group, ABC7, WUSF Public Media, Van Wezel Foundation, WEDU PBS, Go Touchdown Travel & Tours, Hyatt Regency Sarasota, Sarasota Magazine

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 2015 - Kislev/Tevet 5776

Volume 45, Number 12

Jewish Happenings TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1 Club Fed Chanukah

Jewish Happenings specifically for families and youths are now easily identified with the event descriptions in red type.

Sponsored by

Celebrate Chanukah with a latkes bar and bingo from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on the Federation Campus, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Enjoy latkes and win prizes. RSVP required. To RSVP or for more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org, or visit www.jfedsrq.org/ events.

JFCS Bereavement Support Group Sponsored by

This group meets from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Tuesdays from December 1 to January 5 at JFCS, 2688 Fruitville Road, Sarasota. Cost: $36 per person for the six-week session. For more information, contact Jennifer Singer, 941.366.2224 x166 or jsinger@JFCS-Cares.org.

Torah & Tea Join Chanie Bukiet in her home on Tuesdays from 11:00 a.m. to noon for a weekly dose of delicious tea and refreshments spiced with thoughts on women in the Torah and roundtable discussions. Cost: free; sponsor a class in someone’s memory or honor for $25. For more information or to RSVP, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@ chabadofbradenton.com.

Reel Fun Movie Night: Robot and Frank Frank, a retired cat burglar, lives alone. His son, instead of placing Frank in a nursing home, buys him a humanoid robot to improve his physical and mental health. A hilarious and somewhat heartbreaking story follows about finding friends and family in the most unexpected places. The Jewish Congregation of Venice (600 N. Auburn Rd.) will screen the film at 7:00 p.m. The cost, which is $3 for members and $5 for nonmembers, includes a lively discussion after the movie and home-baked desserts with coffee. To RSVP, call the temple office at 941.484.2022.

HAPPY HOUR

Three opportunities for singles and couples to meet new and old friends. (Ages 50’s - 70’s Welcome)

Wednesday, December 16TH 6:00 PM

10670 Boardwalk Loop Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 CASH BAR

•

LIGHT SNACKS OFFERED

RSVP at www.jfedsrq.org For more info contact Jeremy Lisitza 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org

jfedsrq.org 941.371.4546

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2 STEP Teen Chugim Series: Mosaic Students in this class will gain knowledge about this ancient art form as they learn the basics of mosaic design and create their own one-ofa-kind personal artworks. This class will incorporate traditional and modern methods and materials as students learn to design layouts, and apply newly acquired skills like tile cutting, gluing and grouting. No experience is necessary. The class begins at 6:30 p.m. on the Federation Campus, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. The second class in this series will take place on Wednesday, December 16 at the same time and location. Cost: $75 for the three-part series, plus a one-time $15 materials fee. For more information, contact Andrea Eiffert at aeiffert@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6308. To register, visit www.jfedsrq.org/events.

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

“Be Aware of Anti-Semitism in Florida” On Shabbat morning, August 9, 2014, Rabbi Joseph Raksin was executed on the streets of Miami Beach walking to shul with his grandchildren behind, with no arrest made. Tragically, most Jews have never heard the name of this victim of anti-Semitic hate crime. This one-of-akind monthly lecture series from December through June will inform you of local anti-Semitism largely downplayed or ignored in the media. Join us at 5:30 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5910 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $60 for this seven-part series; healthy kosher foods with vegan options available. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

December 2015

CLUBFED Lecture Series

DECEMBER 3 - 24 ORT Gift Wrap ORT gift wrappers at both Westfield malls in Sarasota (Westfield Southgate, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, and Westfield Sarasota Square, 8201 S. Tamiami Trail) will wrap gifts to raise money to support ORT educational programs in the United States and around the world. ORT helps students learn skills enabling them to support themselves. Gift Wrap booths are open during most mall hours. Donations are appreciated. Contact Kim Sheintal at 941.302.1433 to be a volunteer wrapper.

ANCIENT MYSTERIES OF THE BIBLE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 STEP TKO Club Shopping Day

Presented by Dr. Steven Derfler

8 1 $ S E I R E S ENTIRE TUESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2016

Help the JFCS “Adopt a Family” program by purchasing holiday gifts for families in need. You will be provided with wish lists and gift cards, and then shop for your adopted family with other TKO Club participants in your group. Meet at 4:00 p.m. sharp at the main entrance of the Walmart at 4381 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota. For more information, please contact Andrea Eiffert at aeiffert@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6308. To register, visit www. jfedsrq.org/events.

10–11:30AM – CREATION

“In the beginning…” The first part of the Hebrew Bible is considered ‘primeval history’, the start of everything. Was there a Garden of Eden, and if so, where was it? How do we reconcile biblical narrative with archaeology?

Creation

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2016

10–11:30AM – EXODUS

How accurate are the accounts of Joseph and his amazing technicolor dreamcoat? Were there one or two Egyptian Pharaohs involved in the Exodus tradition? Do we know what happened at Sinai, and where was its location? TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

Exodus

10–11:30AM – KING SOLOMON

Was the monarchy of Israel as strong, impressive and powerful as the biblical narrative implies? Or was King Solomon the consolidator of a small kingdom that was relatively insignificant outside of the Hebrew text? TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2016

King Solomon

10–11:30AM – QUEEN ESTHER

As the Jewish world spread its wings following the Exile of 587 BCE, it finds itself as a minority of strangers in strange lands. Even though the ability to roll with the punches allows for survival, being at odds with the majority still rules. But the influence of one of the most powerful women in the biblical world reshapes the Persian world.

Queen Esther To be held at:

The Jewish Federation Campus 580 McIntosh Rd. Sarasota, Fl 34232

To pay, please go online to jfedsrq.org or remit check to:

THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF SARASOTA-MANATEE Attn: Jeremy

“Presidential Health and Jewish World Politics” Dr. Allan B. Schwartz, Director of Medicine at Drexel University College of Medicine, will present this course at 2:00 p.m. (also on Thursday, December 10) at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Session one will describe LBJ’s stance on Jewish immigration and how his health affected his political reactions and decisions. His problems included a cigarette habit, “Type A personality,” heart condition and gall bladder difficulties. How did they influence the Civil Rights movement and Vietnam War? Session two will delve into Richard Nixon’s paranoia, infections and other health problems that affected his relationship with Henry Kissinger, Golda Meir, the Chinese and, of course, Watergate participants. Free for TBI members; $5 for nonmembers. For information, call the temple office at 941.383.3428.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 Junior Congregation at Chabad of Venice Kids will participate in synagogue with engaging lessons, songs and games that bring the Torah portion to life. Earn fun prizes by attending. Join us on the ﬁrst Saturday of the month from 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at Chabad of Venice, 2169 S Tamiami Trail. Appropriate for children ages 4-13, Junior Congregation will be led by Morah Rivka Schmerling. A kiddush luncheon follows this free program. For more information, contact Chaya Rivka Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rivka@chabadofvenice.com.

CHJ Chanukah service Join the Congregation for Humanistic Judaism (3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota) at 10:30 a.m. for a Chanukah service featuring the CHJ Readers performing short Jewish plays directed by Addie Rosen. Addie has been involved in theater for most of her life. Since moving to Florida, Addie has performed in community theater and is an active member of the Asolo Rep Theater Guild Readers who perform for groups such as the visiting Road Scholars and local social groups, raising funds to enable school children to attend live theater. For more information, call 941.929.7771 or visit chjsarasota.org.

T H E

A M E R I C A N

A I PAC

I S R A E L

P U B L I C

C O R D IA L LY

A F F A I R S

I N V I T E S

YO U

T O

C O M M I T T E E

T H E

Sarasota Annual Event F E AT U R I N G

C O N V E R S AT I O N

W I T H

Dr. Jonathan Schanzer

Vice President of Research, Foundation for Defense of Democracies A N D

Ghaith al-Omari

Senior Fellow, The Washington Institute for Near East Policy

$18 ENTIRE SERIES • MUST RSVP

www.jfedsrq.org Educational Resources Inc.

Bringing peoples, cultures and faiths together through education

Questions? Contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org

Lecture series sponsored by Senior Home Companions, Inc.SM For Seniors by Active Seniors® Senior Home Companions, Inc. For Seniors by Active Seniors®

PROSPECTS FOR PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST Thursday, December 10, 2015

7:00 p.m. Dessert Reception • 7:30 p.m. Program

The Ritz-Carlton

1111 Ritz Carlton Drive • Sarasota $50 couvert per person • Dietary Laws Observed Kindly RSVP by December 4th by visiting www.aipac.org/SarasotaAnnual. For more information, please contact Nina Uribe at AIPAC’s Florida Office at nuribe@aipac.org or 954.382.6110.

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

December 2015

140 kosher characters

Chanukah begins Sunday night, December 6

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 PJ Library partners with Chabad for A Taste of Chanukah Sponsored by

PJ Library families are invited to story time with professional story teller Christine Alexander, and a kids’ craft table from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. The kids’ corner will consist of a petting zoo, snow slide, carnival games, inﬂatables, pony rides, stilt walker and juggling show, gigantic 8' dreidel, and large balloon menorah – all at the Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd. Live entertainment from 1:30 to 5:00 p.m. Kosher food. For more information, contact Andrea Eiffert at aeiffert@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6308. To register, visit www.jfedsrq.org/events.

A Taste of Chanukah Festival Sponsored by

This 5th annual festival sponsored by Chabad of Sarasota will take place at the Sarasota Fairgrounds (3000 Ringling Blvd.) from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Featured will be live entertainment by the Moshav and Freylekh bands, kosher food for purchase from Michael’s On East and Michael Lauber catering, latkes prepared by Munchies 420 Café, and sufganiyot by Orit. The menorah garden will feature an ice-sculpted menorah, a balloon menorah and a 15-foot-high Tube Dude menorah. Admission is $3 per person, and can be purchased at the gate or online at www.atasteofchanukah.com. Parking is free. For more information, visit the website or www.facebook.com/ atasteofchanukah, or call the Chabad ofﬁce at 941.925.0770.

TBS Men’s Club breakfast and speaker program Rabbi Ed Rosenthal, Executive Director and Campus Rabbi of the Hillels of the Florida Suncoast, will address “Hillel, Anti-Semitism, and Israel on the College Campus.” Both men and women are invited to Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. The program will start with a bageland-lox breakfast at 9:30 a.m. and be followed by the program at 10:00 a.m. A question-and-answer period will follow. A voluntary donation of $5 would be appreciated. Please call the temple ofﬁce at 941.955.8121 by December 1 to reserve your spot.

Enjoy our Jewish programs in January and February 2016

S PE C I A L P RO G R A M S Thursday, January 14 • 11:00AM–12:30PM JEWISH COMEDY, UNBUTTONED—

How Clothes Helped Fashion American Jewish Humor Ted Merwin, Ph.D. Enjoy a humorous presentation on how clothing became a major theme of American Jewish humor and how the garment (schmata) and entertainment industries became intertwined.

Monday, February 29 11:00AM-12:30PM THE TEMPLE MOUNT THROUGHOUT HISTORY Steven Derfler, Ph.D. This lecture will explore the rich history of Temple Mount (located in the Old City of Jerusalem) and what it means to the Western world today.

ONE-TIME LECTURES TUESDAYS, 3:00-4:30

January 12

W Adolph Hitler—From Army Corporal to Prison to Der Fuhrer Dr. Allan Schwartz

Chanukah Menorah Fair Bring your favorite menorahs, properly called chanukiahs, and tell us their history and sentimental value on this eve of Chanukah. Inaugurate the Festival of Lights with Chanukah music, Chanukah tales and traditional holiday foods. While you attend this community-wide event, you can purchase silent auction items, original framed wildlife artwork, and original pro-Israel posters designed by the Al Katz Center in support of the State of Israel as Chanukah gifts for your home, family or friends. Join us from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5910 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Donations greatly appreciated; healthy kosher foods with vegan options available. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

March 8

W Archaeology and the Bible:

Two Witnesses to Ancient Israel Elizabeth-Bloch Smith, Ph.D.

Mondays

Chanukah Menorah Lighting in Englewood Join us at 5:30 p.m. as we celebrate Chanukah in Englewood on Dearborn Street with music, latkes and donuts. For more information, contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabadofvenice.com.

W Wednesdays W Thursdays W Tuesdays

The New Equation in the Eastern Mediterranean — Thomas O. Hecht, Ph.D January 4 and January 11 ............. 11:00 AM–12:30 PM Tales of Our Sages — Rabbi Elaine Rose Glickman January 5 – January 26 ................. 9:00–10:30 AM The Two Shoahs — Ken Hanson, Ph.D. February 3 and February 10 ........ 1:00–2:30 PM Yiddish Language and Culture — Betty Silberman February 7 – February 28 .............. 11:00 AM–12:30 PM Jewish/Israeli Film Festival — Susan Goldfarb and Special Guest Facilitators, including Roz Goldberg, chair and founder of the Milman-Kover Jewish Film Festival February 4 – March 10 ................... 2:15–5:00 PM

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Jane Hoffman, flute and Mike Markeverich, piano A vibrant program of Jewish favorites in the top 10 For prices and a brochure listing over 150 adult enrichment courses, lectures and special events call 941-383-8811 or visit www.lbkeducationcenter.org

Same day appointments available. Call 941-488-2020 Maria V. Tindal, MPAS, PA-C Dermatology Physician Assistant

CenterForSight.net | 941-488-2020 SEE, HEAR AND LOOK YOUR BEST™

Sunday, January 24 • 3:00 – 4:30 PM JEWISH JAZZ WITH THE FIDDLING FLUTE

THE LONGBOAT KEY EDUCATION CENTER, IS NOT-FOR-PROFIT, 501 (c ) (3) EDUCATIONAL ORGANIZATION, LOCATED AT 5370 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE (IN THE CENTRE SHOPS OF LONGBOAT KEY)

www.lbkeducationcenter.org

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

December 2015

PaiSanO’s Italian Bakery

Mon-Sat 9am-6pm Sundays 9am-3pm

941.926.8422 2736 Stickney Point Rd

2015 B E S T L O C A L B A K E RY

Babka • Hamentashen • Strudel • Rugala

MONDAY, DECEMBER 7 Women’s Day luncheon featuring Marlee Matlin Sponsored by

The event begins at 11:30 a.m. at Michael’s On East, 1212 S. East Ave., Sarasota. Reservations start at $75; a minimum gift of $54 to the development efforts of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is required. For more information, contact Ilene Fox at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org.

“Ecclesiastes: A Modern Commentary”

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Advertise in SPACE DEADLINE

December 1 December 18 February 1 March 1

At 2:00 p.m. (also on Monday, December 21) at Temple Beth Israel (567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key), Rabbi Richard Klein will delve into the Kohelet. Only twelve chapters long, it is a book of practical wisdom for daily living, and a pathway to understanding our own and others’ view of the world. Come and learn. Free for TBI members; $5 for nonmembers. For information, call the temple ofﬁce at 941.383.3428.

Chanukah Menorah Lighting in North Port ISSUE JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL

Robin Leonardi • 941.552.6307 rleonardi@jfedsrq.org

www.TheJewishNews.org

Join us at 5:30 p.m. as we celebrate Chanukah in North Port at Warm Mineral Springs with music, latkes and donuts. For more information, please contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabad ofvenice.com.

Chanukah Glow in the Dark Spectacular Sponsored by

Join Chabad of Bradenton for a fabulous Chanukah celebration featuring ice menorah sculpting, live music, Falafel with Yoav, and a kosher BBQ sponsored by Bogey’s. Chanukah activities will include Chanukah art, Orit’s doughnut decorating, face painting, Judah Maccabee meets, dreidel moon bounce, hot latkes, rafﬂes and more. This event is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and Lakewood Ranch Main Street. Admission is free. Some food fees to apply. The fun begins at 6:00 p.m. on Main Street in Lakewood Ranch. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@chabadofbradenton.com.

Downtown Bradenton Chanukah Celebration Temple Beth El Bradenton’s annual Chanukah candle lighting will be held at 6:00 p.m. at the Riverwalk Amphitheater, located just east of the green bridge on the Riverwalk. The event will feature an explanation of the Chanukah holiday, candle lighting, music by Temple Beth El musicians, Chanukah songs by cantor Alan Cohn, who will also lead a sing-a-long of many of our favorite tunes. A special performance by the First United Methodist church will add to our musical event. The evening is free and open to all. Please bring lawn chairs. For more information, call the temple ofﬁce at 941.755.4900 Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 Mitzvah Knitting Group at Temple Emanu-El 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 at 10:00 a.m. at 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. We gather monthly to craft and socialize, and our beautiful handiwork has been donated to local new parents as well as 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! For more information, please email Susan Bernstein at susanhope22@comcast.net.

Celebration of Lights Join us from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and enjoy scrumptious traditional treats and a tour of the beautiful Kobernick-Anchin facility located in the Meadows, 1951 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota. This event is free but space is limited. RSVP to Natalie Chuquizuta at 941.225.8369 or nchuquizuta@ kobernickanchin.org.

Cteen: Glow in the Dark Teens are invited to join us at 7:00 p.m. at The Chabad House (5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton) for the next Cteen get-together. Themed to “Jewish Survival,” teens will utilize their survival skills at Livingston’s with Laser Tag, enjoy various glowing Chanukah-themed activities and refreshments, and partner with Chabad Terror Victim’s Project to learn and experience Jewish pride. Cteen’s mission is to give teens three things: Jewish Network, Jewish Identity, Jewish Values. This is an opportunity that no Jewish teenager should miss, and there’s plenty of room for all their friends as well! Cost: $180 per teen for annual Cteen membership. For more information, please contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@ chabadofbradenton.com.

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

December 2015

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Torah Talk with Rabbi Huntting Join Rabbi Geoffrey Huntting at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesdays, December 9, 23 and 30 at Temple Sinai, Social Hall A, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call the temple ofﬁce at 941.924.1802.

The Original Brown Bag with Rabbi Huntting Join Rabbi Geoffrey Huntting at noon on Wednesdays, December 9, 23 and 30 at Temple Sinai, Social Hall A, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota. Bring your lunch and come for this casual gathering. The discussion on current events is determined by those in attendance. For more information, call the temple ofﬁce at 941.924.1802.

Chanukah celebration Laura Freedman, The Gan Director, invites you to a wonderful Chanukah celebration, with story time, arts & crafts, and tasty treats. This free event begins at 5:00 p.m. at Gulf Gate Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave., Sarasota. For more information, call 941.926.9462.

Menorah lighting at Prime Ellenton Outlet Mall Join Chabad of Bradenton for a special menorah lighting ceremony including latkes, doughnuts, rafﬂes, music and more. All are welcome to this free event at 6:00 p.m. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@chabadofbradenton.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10 JFCS Holocaust Survivors Chanukah Luncheon Sponsored by

All survivors are invited to attend at 11:00 a.m. at Kobernick House, 1951 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota. This is a multi-agency event sponsored by JFCS of the Suncoast, Inc., Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Community Services, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and the Claims Conference of Germany. To RSVP (required) or for more information, contact Jan Alston at 941.366.2224 x172 or jalston@JFCS-Cares.org.

Lunch and Learn Series at TBS Sue Spector will address “Ma La’asot – Exploring Modern Dilemmas Through the Eyes of Jewish Tradition” in an eight-week course. Topics include Partners with our Planet: Judaism and the Environment; Kosher Money (Business Ethics); Is it a Sin to Tell a Lie?; The Beauty Myth, or How Does one Dance Before a Bride; Jewish Genetic Diseases and the Ethics of Genetic Testing; Lashon Hara; Hunger and Homelessness. Everyone is welcome from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Cost: free for TBS members; $40 for nonmembers. Advance registration is required. Bring a pareve or dairy lunch. Please contact the temple ofﬁce at 941.955.8121 to register or for more information.

“Mom

Dec 7 Dec 15 Dec 16 Jan 7 Jan 12 Jan 13 Jan 14 Feb 2 Feb 8 Feb 10 Feb 17 Feb 23 Mar 8 Mar 6–13 Mar 23 Apr 13 May 15

WSRQ 106 .9 FM • 1220 AM or ONLINE wsrqradio.com

HE MILK & HONEY RADIO HOUR encourages dialog and understanding on modern topics that impact the world with a focus on Israel, anti-Semitism and Jewish culture.

We will strive to exemplify the morals and values of the Jewish people while shedding light on the Jewish perspective and to rally the support of our friends.

Host Jessi Sheslow Director, Community Relations

milkandhoney@jfedsrq.org

December programming*

Lauren Yoked of Leket Israel Judy Cuppy, Denise Cotler, Jennifer Singer David Chaifetz & Rabbi Geoff Huntting Survivor testimonial Major General Doron Almog

MAR

N D DA N C E R S

ISH

FILM FESTIV

*Guest/s subject to change

IN L E E M AT L

The Miracle of Chanukah Sarasota Tikkun Olam Episode Great Debate Part 2 Holocaust Survivor Testimonial Major General Doron Almog – Israeli war and social service hero

12/6/2015 12/13/2015 12/20/2015 12/27/2015 1/3/2016

Women’s Day with Marlee Matlin PJ Library: Turning Bedtime Battles into Bedtime Blessings Fifty Shades of J at Polo Grill Newcomers Event at Selby Gardens Club Fed Lecture Series I: Creation Club Fed Hits the Road: Edison & Ford Winter Estates PJ Library: Raising a Mensch Club Fed Lecture Series II: Exodus Public Lecture with Ehud Barak Club Fed Hits the Road: Chihuly Collection at the Morean Arts Center Tel Mond Dancers at Riverview High School Club Fed Lecture Series III: King Solomon Club Fed Lecture Series IV: Queen Esther Jewish Film Festival Club Fed Hits the Road: Tiffany at the Morse Museum Club Fed Hits the Road: The Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg One Community Outreach Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebration

” ! s u ento Broadcasting Sundays at 10am!

Interested in becoming a sponsor of

D EHU

The MILK & HONEY Radio Hour?

Contact Robin Leonardi 941.552.6307 or rleonardi@jfedsrq.org BROUGHT TO YOU BY

tune in

Get complete info and purchase tickets as they become available at www.jfedsrq.org or 941.371.4546

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

For more information, call Bob Satnick HAPPENINGS JEWISH at 941.538.3739

December 2015

Do youThursdays play??? / 12pm to 4ish

Seasoned

Federation Campus Jerusalem Room, Thursdays / 12pm to 4ish

(582 McIntosh JERUSALEM ROOM, FEDERATION CAMPUS Road) 582 MCINTOSH ROAD $5 pie. $5 Friendly pie. but serious game!

Contact Contact Marilyn OslanderMarilyn Oslander

941.951.2029 marasota@yahoo.com marasota@yahoo.com

941.951.2029

Friendly 11 FRIDAY, DECEMBER but

serious game! Dinner of Lights for Chanukah and Shabbat Everyone is invited to Temple Beth Sholom (1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota) to enjoy the Kabbalat service at 6:00 p.m. with joy-ﬁlled songs and Toby Simon at the piano in celebration of Chanukah. At 7:00 p.m., Jo-El’s of St. Petersburg will cater a kosher dinner with beef brisket, kasha with bow ties, and other traditional foods. The cost for dinner is $30 per adult and $15 per child. Reservations required by December 3. To RSVP or for more information, please contact the temple ofﬁce at 941.955.8121.

KEEP CALM

16 hungry polo players for a post-game family style dinner. Elvis on the dance floor. One pretty girl in a white dress. An obnoxiously large 40th. Disco? Paris in July? Modern Zen? Our place? Your place? Any place you want! You dream it. We will help you achieve it.

AND

PLAY ON WE WILL

ROCK

YOUR NEXT

EVENT

“Hanukkah Happening” at Temple Emanu-El Join Temple Emanu-El at 6:00 p.m. for a joyful and festive Hanukkah celebration for the entire family. We’ll begin with a delicious dinner that includes brisket with all the trimmings, roast chicken, salad, rolls, and plenty of latkes prepared fresh and homemade by Temple EmanuEl Brotherhood. There’s also a menorah-making contest, a visit from Judah Maccabee, crafts and doughnut-decorating, a silent auction, songs, blessings and fun. Dreidels and gelt for all! The beautiful Hanukkah service follows at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For reservations and pricing, contact the Temple Emanu-El Religious School at 941.371.2788 or teers@sarasotatemple.org.

Rhythm & Jews & Chanukah Family Erev Shabbat Join Rabbi Huntting, Chazzan Abramson, your friends and neighbors for the Rhythm & Jews & Chanukah Family Erev Shabbat Service. Hear the Bruno Family Musicians in an uplifting service with a variety of traditional, Israeli, Sephardic and Chasidic melodies, followed by a Chanukah Dinner Celebration. This free event begins at 6:00 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call the temple ofﬁce at 941.924.1802.

caterfete.com 941.567.2001

Chanukah Around the World with Rabbi Barbara Join Rabbi Barbara Aiello and Congregation Ner Tamid for Shabbat at Table at 6:30 p.m. featuring a light supper of a variety of latkes and salads, Chanukah traditions from around the world, and menorah lighting. Free and open to the public, this event takes place at Lakeside South Club House, 3817 40th Ave. W., Bradenton. Bring your family Chanukah menorah. Reservations a must. Call Elaine at 941.755.1231.

Temple Beth El’s Family Menorah Lighting

HISTORY. CULTURE. AND SO MUCH MORE.

Please join the Temple Beth El family and friends along with our “Shabbat Live” musical group, for a wonderful Erev Shabbat service and Hanukkah celebration at 7:30 p.m. at 4200 32nd Street West, Bradenton. Bring your family menorah to light as one family, as we light our temple menorah rescued from the Shoah. We ask that you also bring a non-perishable food item to ﬁll our “Meals on Wheels” food bin which is TBE’s commitment to help families in Manatee County. For more information, please call the temple ofﬁce at 941.755.4900 Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

Get to know Israel and her people!

Lion of Judah & Pomegranate

www.SarasotaLovesIsrael.com

2016 LECTURE SERIES IN SARASOTA / VENICE / LAKEWOOD RANCH

Listen. Think. Learn. Enjoy. Find out why over 40,000 attend each year!

TUESDAY, Danielle Akta

LUNCHEON

MARCH 1, 2016

THE FRANCIS

Featuring a special performance by teenage virtuoso DANIELLE AKTA

SARASOTA INSTITUTE OF LIFETIME LEARNING

90 Lectures January 4 to March 25

Single Tickets $10

6 Global Issues Series for world news insights 2 Music Series with world class music experts See www.sillsarasota.org for more details Program brochures at area libraries

To learn more about the Lion of Judah and Pomegranate, please contact Ilene Fox at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org

Season Tickets $85

LEAD SPONSOR:

jfedsrq.org

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

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

December 2015

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Circus Breakfast and Blood Drive The Brotherhood of Temple Emanu-El is delighted to announce the guest for its popular monthly breakfast and discussion program: Curator Debbie Walk of the Ringling Museum, who will present a fascinating picture of the Circus Museum and Tibbals Learning Center while highlighting the excitement, glamour and history of the American circus. At 9:30 a.m. a deluxe bagel-and-lox breakfast will precede the presentation, and a blood drive will run concurrently from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. All are invited to Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Cost: $10 for the breakfast. For more information about the breakfast and program, please contact Don Malawsky at 941.359.2890 or dmalawsky@msn.com. For more information about the blood drive or to reserve a donation time, please contact Bill Haiby at wh5446@gmail.com.

The Prehistory of Beer Dave Himmelfarb, anthropologist and brewer, provides a fascinating window into the past, discussing the intertwined origins of agriculture, beer making, and society in the Fertile Crescent and beyond. Join the Jewish Congregation of Venice (600 N. Auburn Rd.) at 9:30 a.m. to hear the presentation, enjoy a traditional lox-and-bagel breakfast, and sample custom-brewed beer from ancient grains that the Israelites drank in Egypt. Cost: $7. To RSVP, call the temple ofﬁce at 941.484.2022.

Chanukah Karaoke Party Join the Chabad Hebrew School of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch at 11:00 a.m. at The Chabad House (5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton) for a fabulous party. Belt it out to familiar Chanukah tunes! Enjoy Chanukah treats and participate in a menorah lighting and menorah contest. Admission is $5; free for CHS students and families. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@chabadofbradenton.com.

West Side Story with BNC Brandeis National Committee invites you to the Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. The event begins with a pre-performance talk at 11:30 a.m., a catered box lunch at 12:30 p.m., and West Side Story at 2:00 p.m. The cost for the talk, lunch and performance is $90. For more information, call Janet Tolbert at 941.388.9624.

Fanny Brice comes to Temple Emanu-El When we speak about female comedians, there is a preponderance of Jewish women in the mix. One of the funniest – Fanny Brice – visits Temple Emanu-El in this special one-woman show by author, singer, actor and entertainer, Betty Comora. The beloved ‘Roaring 20s’ icon shares anecdotes about her childhood, her career and her marriages. She will also sing rare novelty tunes, as well as her trademark “Second Hand Rose” and “My Man,” and tell the truth about her ﬁlms Funny Girl and Funny Lady. Come prepared to laugh! The fun begins at 2:00 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Cost: $5 with advance reservation or at the door. For more information or to make a reservation, please contact Dan Barwick at 941.232.1832 or dan@barwick.us.

Jewish Artists Explore features Carola de Vries Robles Sponsored by

The public is invited from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on the Federation Campus (580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota) to join members of the Association of Professional and Aspiring Jewish Artists in exploring the light-ﬁlled, transformational approach to art-making of Netherlands artist, psychotherapist and Jewish spiritual guide, Carola de Vries Robles. Rabbi Goldie Milgram will interview Carola about her profound and inspiring spiritual journey through art in post-war Europe, and then Carola will guide us in kindling inner light to reveal miracles while moving through dark reactions in these challenging times. Her documentary To Remember, To Return has been accessioned by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Artisanal latkes created by Harry Samtur Kosher Catering will be served. Bring a menorah if you wish as we’ll sing and light together! Cost: $5. Jewish Artists Explore is a monthly series from December through May sponsored by APJA and The Jewish Federation of Sarastoa-Manatee. Details at ReclaimingJudaism. org or email Rabbi Milgram at rebgoldie@gmail.com.

Grand Chanukah Klezmer Festival Join Chabad of Venice at 4:30 p.m. for the lighting of a 12' menorah at the Gazebo in Centennial Park, downtown Venice. Latkes, donuts, chicken soup and other refreshments will be available for sale. The entertainment will feature The Klezmer Freylekh Band. For more information, contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabadofvenice.com.

Comedy Central at Chabad of Sarasota Join us at 7:00 p.m. at Chabad of Sarasota (7700 Beneva Road) for the synagogue’s 12th annual Comedy Central with comedian Dan Naturman. Dan was a contestant on America’s Got Talent and made it to the semi-ﬁnal round. He has appeared several times on The Late Show with David Letterman, and has also appeared on The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, and his very own Comedy Central Presents special. Chips and dips, and soft drinks will be served. At 6:30 p.m. a private pre-show will be held for the event sponsors. Cost: $40; event sponsor: $500. For more information or to RSVP, call the Chabad ofﬁce at 941.925.0770.

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Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva PRESENTS FOR THE WINTER SEMESTER

HISTORY OF JEWISH MESSIANISM

Fridays 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM Starting December 4 (Eight Weeks)

For 3,500 years the Jewish people have yearned for the coming of the Messiah. They have waited patiently and even prayed for the day when the lion and the lamb can live together in peace. Contemporary Judaism prays for the start of a messianic era, expressed in Isaiah 2:4 “And they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.” Yet, throughout history, many individuals arose who were thought to be the savior. This course will study these characters and why they did not meet the conventional criteria for being the Messiah. We’ll also explore the differences between Christianity and Judaism and the differing messianic orientations. Fee $50.

THE JEWISH WAY: THE EVOLUTION OF HALACHA

Tuesdays 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM Starting December 8 (Eight weeks)

An in-depth study of Halacha (Jewish law) is designed to inform students of just how Judaism developed its practices and customs of today. Exactly what is Halacha? Where did it originate and how did it evolve? Who made it, taught it, transmitted it and codified it? This course will analyze the treasure trove of great rabbinic literature that molded Halacha —the Jews’ inheritance as “The People of the Book”— will be discussed in meaningful bytes. Inserted in the lessons will be a review of specific common ritual laws along with discussion of their relevance in today’s world. Fee $50.

ISRAEL: THE CHAI-TECH NATION

Mondays 4:15 PM – 5:30 PM Starting December 21 (Seven weeks) Against all odds, Israel has become one of the leading exporters of high technology to a world that is starving for innovation. It seems utterly amazing that such a small country, surrounded by enemies and in a constant state of military preparedness, can become the high-tech center of the Middle East. Most people are not even aware of the routinely-used innovations in our daily living that we simply take for granted and that come out of the tiny Jewish State. Innovators in solar power, water conservation, drip irrigation, medical imaging, and generic drugs are saving billions of dollars for consumers everywhere. This class will cover every facet of Israeli genius and creativity making our planet a better, more convenient and healthier place to inhabit. Fee $50.

Inquire about multi-course discounts. Scholarships are also available. 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 school-administered 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.

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

December 2015 MARK PODWAL: ALL THIS HAS COME UPON US… On View Through March 13, 2016 Mark Podwal is best known for his drawings on The New York Times OP-ED pages. This exhibition features his depictions of historical threats of antisemitism, from slavery in Egypt through the Holocaust, combined with verses from the Book of Psalms. Exhibition Sponsors: Funding Arts Network, Robert Arthur Segall Foundation, Dr. Paul Drucker, Burton Young, Kenneth and Barbara Bloom, Elliot Stone and Bonnie Sockel-Stone, Isabel Bernfeld Anderson, and Anonymous Donor.

A Song 1948, Psalm 126:5 Those who plant in tears will harvest in joy.

DISCOVERY AND RECOVERY: PRESERVING IRAQI JEWISH HERITAGE December 3, 2015 – February 14, 2016 Exhibition details the dramatic recovery of historic materials relating to the Jewish community in Iraq from a flooded basement in Saddam Hussein's intelligence headquarters, and the National Archives' recovery work in support of U.S. Government efforts to preserve and make these materials available.

“The Wondrous Books of Maccabees” The little-known volumes of the Books of Maccabees are worthy of study and deep discussion, although they were excluded from the Jewish Bible. Book I, covering the period from 175 BCE to 135 BCE, is a historical religious text of one of the most important periods of Jewish history, when our Maccabees rose up against Greek tyrant Antiochus, who “insolently entered the sanctuary and took away the golden altar,” causing the world’s ﬁrst war for religious freedom. Join us at 11:00 a.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5910 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $7 per adult; $3 per student; healthy kosher foods with vegan options, and discussion materials included. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

L’chaim Mondays

This exhibition was created by the National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, DC, with generous support from the U.S. Department of State. Local support received from Congregation Beth Jacob, Nancy G. Pastroff, Kenneth and Barbara Bloom, Elliot Stone and Bonnie Sockel-Stone, and Isabel Bernfeld Anderson. More information is available at www.ija.archives.gov.

Tik (Torah case) and Glass Panel from Baghdad,19th-20th centuries.

2 - fo r - 1 ad missio n with this ad

MONDAY, DECEMBER 14

SMJN

301 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139 305.672.5044 • jewishmuseum.com • info@jewishmuseum.com Open Tuesday-Sunday 10am - 5pm Except 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.

The Kehillah of Lakewood Ranch invites you to its continuing L’chaim Mondays celebrations at 7:00 p.m. at The Windsor, 8220 Natures Way, Lakewood Ranch. Guitarist and vocalist Rosalie Leon will perform stories and songs of famous Jewish women throughout history. In what promises to be a spiritual, inspiring and entertaining evening, Ms. Leon will serenade you while recounting the heroism, determination and creativity of such women as Golda Meir, Emma Lazarus and Naomi Shemer. For more information, please contact the Kehillah at 941.281.2587 or info@kehillahoﬂakewoodranch.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15 PJ Library Parent Workshop Sponsored by

The workshop “Turning Bedtime Battles into Bedtime Blessings” begins at 7:00 p.m. at Perq Coffee Bar, 1821 Hillview St., Sarasota. Infuse your evening with coffee, tea and a taste of bedtime routines. Hear from a Developmental Specialist on the importance of solid bedtime routine for your family, and learn how to include Jewish rituals and activities into this routine as well. Free for parents enrolled in PJ Library. For more information, contact Rabbi Michael Werbow at 941.955.8121 or email Andrea Eiffert at aeiffert@jfedsrq.org. To register, visit www.jfedsrq.org/events.

SaBra Hadassah Associates meeting Join us at 10:00 a.m. at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County (2635 Fruitville Road) when Frank Alcock, PhD, will present “Update on the 2016 Presidential Primary Races: Where We Are, How We Got There, What to Expect in the Months Ahead.” Dr. Alcock is Associate Professor of Political Science at New College. A light breakfast buffet will be served. Associates, Hadassah members and guests are welcome. Your check for $10, payable to SaBra Hadassah, is your reservation. Send to Andrew Nutlay, 7720 U.S. Open Loop, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202. For more information, call Philip Stark at 941.925.1852. COMING IN DECEMBER!

Sarasota Jewish Singles

The Sarasota Jewish Singles is an outreach program of Temple Beth Israel to give all Jewish singles in the area the opportunity to meet other men and women. The group meets once a month for dinner, laughter and a time to turn acquaintances into lifelong friends. Join us at 6:00 p.m. at Waterfront Restaurant, 7660 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information or to make a reservation, call or text Rosalyn Fleischer at 941.915.6631 or rozﬂeischer@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 GAZINE Connections M2 A 016 EDITION LOCATIONS • • • • • • • • • • • •

TOPICS INCLUDE

Select Publix Super Markets Select Winn-Dixie Super Markets Area hotels & restaurants Newsracks throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties Medical facilities & doctors’ offices Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Centers Local libraries More than a dozen area synagogues The Federation campus & partner agencies Federation sponsored events Retail outlets Online digital version

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Community Resources Adult Education our Senior Services Look for it in y ll Teen Focus mailbox or ca Organizations for your copy Synagogues 9 4 1 .3 7 1 .4 5 4 6 Lifecycle Celebration Resources Israel Connection Calendar of Jewish Holidays Candle Lighting Times Cultural Events, Art, Music & Theatre Directory of Advertisers

CONNECTIONS Magazine

Sarasota-Manatee’s

ULTIMATE RESOURCE GUIDE

CONNECTIONS Magazine

l resident, covers everything a loca ing visitor or anyone consider s to a move to our area need know when it comes to

“all things Jew. ish” in our region

www.SarasotaConnections.org An annual publication of

KLINGENSTEIN JEWISH CENTER 580 McIntosh Road | Sarasota, FL 34232

www.jfedsrq.org

Fifty Shades of “J” Happy Hour Sponsored by

This is an opportunity for singles and couples to meet new and old friends. Join us at 6:00 p.m. at Polo Grill, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. Cash bar and light snacks offered. To RSVP or for more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org, or visit www.jfedsrq.org/events.

NCJW Luncheon and General Meeting The National Council of Jewish Women’s December luncheon and program will be held at noon at the Suncoast Technical College (4748 S. Beneva Road, Sarasota), where the chef will be preparing a festive lunch. The speaker will be Peter Ivanov, an actor, producer and teacher at the Venice Theatre. He will share insights and thoughts about the art of theater. The cost for the luncheon is $18. For additional information or to RSVP, call the NCJW phone line at 941.342.1855.

Idelson Library Film Matinee Series Join us at 1:15 p.m. in the Madeline L. Sainer Social Hall at Temple Beth Sholom (1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota) for a screening of Tijuana Jews. Over the course of the 20th century, the lively border of Tijuana, Mexico, attracted Yiddish-speaking Ashkenazi Jewish refugees from Eastern Europe, Ladino-speaking Sephardis fleeing persecution in Turkey and Greece, and Arabic Jews from Syria and Lebanon. These diverse cultures fused into a flourishing, sometimes quarrelsome community of Spanish speakers who were sustained by Tijuana’s tourist district, and helped also define it. Dr. Fred Herzog will lead a question-and-answer session after the film (2005; 52 minutes). The suggested donation is $3 for TBS members and $5 for nonmembers. Refreshments, including popcorn, will be served, sponsored by the Men’s Club. Please contact the temple office at 941.955.8121 or info@templebethsholomfl.org for more information.

Stay connected @ www.jfedsrq.org

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

December 2015

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 SaBra Chapter of Hadassah Champagne Brunch In recognition of SaBra’s Major Donors and of the 18th anniversary of Keepers of the Gate, a champagne brunch will be held in a Keeper’s home at 11:45 a.m. The guest speaker will be Roz Kantor, National Chair, Keepers of the Gate. SaBra Chapter would be delighted to welcome you into Hadassah’s Family of Major Donors or as an annual Keeper of the Gate or Associate Keeper of the Gate. For more information, contact Lee Ruggles at 941.924.1338 or lruggles.sabra@gmail.com.

Ehud Barak

Public Lecture february 8, 2016

EWCOMERS

N’shei Chabad Women’s Rosh Chodesh Society N’shei Chabad Women invites all women to attend the Rosh Chodesh Society, which includes a talk entitled “Music - the Pen of the Soul.” Join us at Chabad of Sarasota (7700 Beneva Road) as we discuss the role that music plays in our lives and in the experience and practice of Judaism. At 7:15 p.m. there will be 15 minutes to shmooze, socialize and enjoy dessert, followed by the Rosh Chodesh Society class. Following the class, women will sing some of the more popular prayers. For underwriting the course we thank Chabad’s First Lady, Anne Stein. All are welcome. Cost: free for Rebbetzin Circle members; $10 for N’shei Women members; $12 for nonmembers. Advance reservations are necessary. To RSVP, call 941.925.0770.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 Cteen Shabbat dinner 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. The impact is magniﬁcent, the experience priceless. This free event begins at 5:00 p.m. at 116 Durian Road, Venice. For more information, contact Chaya Rivka Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rivka@chabadofvenice.com.

Open House and SRQUSY-led Kavanah service Be comfortable and come as you are to Temple Beth Sholom, (1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota) for light refreshments at Happy Hour at 5:30 p.m. Stay for our inspirational and musical alternative Kavanah service at 6:30 p.m., led entirely by high school youth group SRQUSY. The service will be followed by a potluck dinner. Potluck guidelines and sign-up can be found at templebethsholomﬂ.org. No cost. For more information, please contact the temple ofﬁce at 941.955.8121.

ECEPTION

Thursday, January 7 • 5:00-7:00 PM MARIE SELBY BOTANICAL GARDENS Great Room By The Bay 811 S. Palm Avenue • Sarasota, FL 34236

New to the area? New to Federation? You are invited to a Newcomers Reception • Connect with other members of the Jewish community • This event is FREE, but reservations are required ___

Space is limited ___

C O -C HAIRS : S ARANEE N EWMAN

AND

F REMAJANE W OLFSON

RSVP via jfedsrq.org or Amy Goodman-Rizzo 941.371.4546 / arizzo@jfedsrq.org

jfedsrq.org

CONNECT with your Jewish Community facebook.com/jfedsrq

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 The Revisionaries The Congregation for Humanistic Judaism invites you to a screening of The Revisionaries, a 2012 documentary film (92 minutes) about the re-election of Don McLeroy, the former chair of the Texas Board of Education. The documentary focuses on McLeroy’s opposition to scientifically-sound material that he believed should not be taught to Texas students, and his campaign to insert creationist teaching into public school textbook material requirements. It also details how the Texas Board’s decisions on textbook content influence textbooks across the nation and affect the American culture war. The event begins at 10:30 a.m. at 3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota. The cost for nonmembers is $5. Register by December 12. For more information or to register, please call 941.929.7771 or visit chj-sarasota.org.

Temple Beth El Men’s Club Havdalah Please join the TBE Men’s Club and the TBE family for a special Havdalah service on the beach at 4:30 p.m. at the Coquina Beach Pavilion. Say goodbye to the Sabbath with a potluck dairy dinner and watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico. This event is open to all. Please bring your chairs and blankets. For more information or to sign up, please call the temple ofﬁce at 941.755.4900 Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

SPEAKERS BUREAU

FOR ISRAEL Educate your civic group, church or synagogue and community about Israel with the Speakers Bureau for Israel. The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee through the Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative can provide a group of passionate and highly informed speakers to give clear and direct factual information about Israel and current events surrounding Israel both politically and culturally.

ADVOCATE

Take our publications on the go with the new ISSUU app!

issuu.com/thejewishnews

Request a speaker today to provide this engaging and informative topic for your group and/or congregation.

INFORM

For Booking Contact Jessi Sheslow, Speakers Bureau Coordinator

941.343.2109 • jsheslow@jfedsrq.org PROUDLY SPONSORED BY INSPIRE

The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee Klingenstein Jewish Center • 580 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232

941.371.4546 • www.jfedsrq.org

10B

December 2015

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The Perlman Music Program PRESENTS THE 12TH ANNUAL

PMP Sarasota Winter Residency Public Events begin December 20th • USF Sarasota-Manatee Schedule & Tickets at PMPSuncoast.org or 941-955-4942

Celebration Concert

Saturday, January 2, 2016 at 5 pm • Sarasota Opera House PMP String Orchestra Itzhak Perlman, conductor Tickets: $40, $60, $80 PMPSuncoast.org or 941-328-1300

Fresh PRODUCE

DINNERS TO-GO!

Baked Goo ds

15 15--23 South Beneva Rd. @ the Corner of Fruitville -In the Fruitville Forum Shoppes Sarasota, FL 34232 941.924.2705 AWARD WINNING AND RELIABLE FOR YEARS!

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 Men’s Club 770 brunch Deputy Vince Riva of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce will present “Identity Theft and Safety.” Enjoy the best kosher breakfast in Sarasota, including scrambled eggs and onions, whiteﬁsh salad, bagels, lox and cream cheese, followed by the program. Men and women welcome at 9:00 a.m. at Chabad of Sarasota, 7700 Beneva Road. Cost: $7 for Club 770 members; $10 for nonmembers. RSVP by December 17 at 941.925.0770 or info@chabadofsarasota.com.

Jewish War Veterans brunch Jewish War Veterans, Sarasota Post 172, will hold its next monthly brunch/ meeting at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Brunch begins at 9:45 a.m., and the cost is $7 per person. All veterans, spouses and signiﬁcant others are always welcome. The guest speaker will be Dr. Robert Katz, a podiatrist with Cortez Foot & Ankle Specialists. A short business meeting will follow his talk. For more information, please contact Stan Levinson, Commander, Post 172, at stanlevinson172@gmail.com or 941.907.6720.

Family outing to Ellenton Ice Rink PMPSuncoast.org

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The Weinstein Religious School invites all families to join for an enjoyable family fun day as we meet at Chabad of Sarasota (7700 Beneva Road) at 12:15 p.m. and carpool to Ellenton Ice for an awesome afternoon of ice skating. This is an opportunity for families to get to know each other while enjoying an outing together. Please call the Chabad ofﬁce at 941.925.0770 for more information or to RSVP.

Jewish Genealogical Society of SWFL meeting Join the JGS at 1:00 p.m. at Kobernick House (1951 Honore Ave., Sarasota) when Sarasota author Liz Coursen will speak about the Rosenwald Schools of Florida. Her tenth book, The Rosenwald Schools of Florida (publication date February 2017), is the fascinating story of how the 1911 meeting between Booker T. Washington, the “Wizard of Tuskegee,” and philanthropist and CEO of Sears Roebuck, Julius Rosenwald, resulted in the building of more than 5,300 schools for black children from Maryland to Texas. One hundred twenty-seven Rosenwald Schools were built in Florida. Attendance is free and everyone is welcome. For more information, contact Kim Sheintal at 941.921.1433 or klapshein@aol.com, or visit http://jgsswf.org/.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21

Visit TheJewishFederation.org

YOU ARE THE JEWISH COMMUNITY. THIS IS YOUR FEDERATION. TOGETHER, WE DO EXTRAORDINARY THINGS.

The Jewish Federation offers programming for all ages! From PJ Library and ShaLom baby through teen leadership missions to women’s events, CLub Fed, and FiFty ShadeS oF J, to senior services — your Federation provides support throughout Sarasota and Manatee.

Learn more at jfedsrq.org/whatwedo

American Jewish Military History Course: American Revolution Solomon Bush is probably the Jewish ofﬁcer with the longest Revolutionary War record. In his petition to Congress in December 1780, Bush wrote that he entered “the service of our country in the earliest period of our most glorious contest; that animated with zeal, he pushed forward to meet the foe, and received a considerable wound which has deprived him of serving his country in the ﬁeld.” Learn about the heroic Jews in American military history. Join us at 11:00 a.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5910 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $7 per adult; $3 per student; healthy kosher foods with vegan options, and discussion materials included. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

Book review: Infidel The Kehillah of Lakewood Ranch invites you to a book review of Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali. The event begins at 1:30 p.m. at Esplanade Golf & Country Club, Amenity Center, 5240 Esplanade Boulevard, Lakewood Ranch. Ayaan Hirsi Ali burst into international headlines following the murder of Theo van Gogh by an Islamist who threatened that she would be next. She made headlines again when she was stripped of her citizenship and resigned from the Dutch Parliament. Infidel shows the coming of age of this distinguished political superstar and champion of free speech as well as the development of her beliefs, iron will, and extraordinary determination to fight injustice. No charge; donations appreciated. For more information, please contact the Kehillah at 941.281.2587 or info@ kehillahoflakewoodranch.org.

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

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

December 2015

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22

11B

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25

Rosh Chodesh Society - Art & Soul

“The Life and Times of Jonathan Jay Pollard”

Join the Jewish Women’s Circle on a seven-part journey as we explore Judaism’s insights into the arts and how they beautify and transform our lives, one brushstroke at a time. This second class will explore “Music - The Pen of the Soul.” The event begins at 7:30 p.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. Course cost: $70 for JWC members and $75 for nonmembers; textbooks included. For more information, please contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@chabad ofbradenton.com.

This extraordinary multimedia program on Jonathan Pollard, the Jewish spy who has been a scapegoat for over 30 years, languishing in “cruel and unusual punishment,” will feature never-before published photographs, personally taken by Lawrence Newman, of Jonathan’s family and childhood home. Dr. Thomas Hecht will discuss his meeting with Jonathan, and Lawrence Newman will discuss the making of the book Miscarriage of Justice, by his friend, Mark Shaw, and his personal experiences with Jonathan’s parents. Join us at 11:00 a.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5910 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. The cost of $12 includes a healthy and hearty kosher brunch. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24 Movie and kosher Chinese dinner What are you doing on Christmas Eve? Join the Temple Beth Sholom Men’s Club at 6:00 p.m. for its annual movie screening and kosher Chinese buffet with unlimited popcorn. Open to the public, this event takes place at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. The cost for dinner is $32 for TBS members and $36 for nonmembers. For information or to RSVP by December 16, please contact the TBS ofﬁce 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 Sisterhood invites the community to the fourth annual “traditional” December 24 celebration as we enjoy a catered Chinese dinner, 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 event begins at 7:00 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For more information, dinner pricing, or to make a reservation, please call 941.371.2788.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 29 “The Hasmonean Jewish Kingdom” The Hasmonean Dynasty was the last independent Jewish state before the “re-creation” of the State of Israel in 1948. Established by Simon, brother of Judah, in the wake of the Maccabean victory over the Syrian Greeks, the Hasmonean Kingdom lasted for over 100 years. The rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem marked the celebration of the ancient ﬁrst Festival of Lights and the victory of a Jewish nationalism that has lasted for over 2,000 years. Join us at 5:30 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5910 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $7 per adult; $3 per student; healthy kosher foods with vegan options, and discussion materials included. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7 Newcomers Reception Sponsored by

Milman-Kover Milman -Kover

New to the area? New to Federation? Join us for a Newcomers Reception to meet and connect with other Jews in the area and learn about upcoming programs and events. The reception takes place from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Selby Gardens, Great Room by the Bay, 900 S. Palm Avenue, Sarasota. Free but reservations are required. To RSVP, visit www.jfedsrq.org/events. For more information, contact Amy Goodman-Rizzo at 941.371.4546 or arizzo@jfedsrq.org.

Sarasota Concert Association

2016 Great Performers Series at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

March 6 –13, 2016 THE MAZUR FAMILY FUND

Orpheus Chamber Orchestra

The Jewish Federation

January 26 • 7:30 p.m.

jfedsrq.org

Cleveland Orchestra

OF SARASOTA-MANATEE

January 31 • 3 p.m.

www.jfedsrq.org

Registering for The Jewish Federation’s weekly email means you won’t miss important community events or notices. Get updated every Thursday!

Miró String Quartet

Olga Kern

DON’T MISS OUT!

Franz Welser-Möst, conductor

February 15 • 7:30 p.m.

Russian National Orchestra March 8 • 7:30 p.m. Kirill Karabits, conductor Stefan Jackiw, violin

Olga Kern, piano March 14 • 7:30 p.m. Just click the button and enter your email address! www.jfedsrq.org 941.371.4546

941-225-6500 www.scasarasota.org wusf Public Media

Stay informed throughout the month. Sign up for the Jewish Federation’s Enewsletter at www.jfedsrq.org.

12B

December 2015

Have a Happy Chanukah. And share what it means to you. #ChanukahPublix