H A P P Y C H A N U K A H let your light shine bright
Celebrating Jewish Life in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Israel and the World FEDERATION NEWS PUBLISHED BY
The Jewish Federation OF SARASOTA-MANATEE
THE LARRY & MARY GREENSPON FAMILY CAMPUS FOR JEWISH LIFE
December 2019 - Kislev/Tevet 5780 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: 13A Community Focus 23A Jewish Interest 30A Israel & the Jewish World 31A Commentary 36A Focus on Youth 39A Life Cycle 1B Jewish Happenings
www.jfedsrq.org
JFED PROUD & STRONG
By Michael Ritter, Federation President, and Howard Tevlowitz, CEO
A
s we come to the end of 2019, we are pleased to report that our Jewish future in SarasotaManatee is bright and growing! Among other things, our 2019 Jewish Community Study tells us: The Sarasota-Manatee Jewish community numbers approximately
3A Marge and Leon Ellin: beautiful – inside and out!
Michael Ritter and Howard Tevlowitz
7A Federation program staff gives back to the community
Volume 49, Number 12
35,000 adults and children living in 17,100 Jewish households. Since 2001, the number of Jewish individuals living in SarasotaManatee increased by 86%. This growth rate approximately doubled the regional population growth rate. Approximately 3.6% of residents in Sarasota-Manatee are Jewish, compared with about 2.2% of residents of the United States.
As a result of our study and the establishment of The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, our Federation is positioned to take a bold approach to meeting the needs of our growing Jewish community. That approach is about reimagining the Jewish community throughout our two-county area. We are JFED PROUD & STRONG! What does that mean? Just as we now live in a society of “customized playlists,” our Federation, through new campus programs and services, will enable members of our community to access Jewish life at a pace that makes sense for each one. No formal membership or affiliation will be required. Instead, both will be replaced by meaningful “access points” into services and engagements that meet the needs of individuals and families. Our goal is simple: engage more people in activities, volunteering, causes, spiritual searches, cultural involvement, learning and social networks that deepen connections to Jewish life and, ultimately, each individual’s connection to the community. Our programs will be flexible and wel-
coming; make social justice central to programming; and highlight how Judaism can relate to everyday lives and values. We stand today at the crossroads of a shifting and changing Jewish landscape. How we as a Federation have chosen to forge ahead will have serious implications for the future of our Jewish community. It’s a scary path for some, but an exciting one for those who want more. Care to join us on this journey? We’re looking for the “right people on the bus in the right seats,” in order to travel ways less traveled. What an exciting ride it will be! For more information on how you can join us in reimaging The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, contact Howard Tevlowitz at 941.343.2110 or htevlowitz@ jfedsrq.org.
Come sing with us! Tradition! Staff Report
10A Holocaust survivor Rifka Glatz speaks with Sarasota Military Academy students
37A Community Day School’s fourth annual Challah-ween Bake-Off Festival
T
he Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee will offer something different this month. For the first time in Federation history, we will offer a sing-along with the community. The Federation will host Tradition, a Chinese buffet and a sing-along version of the original movie, Fiddler on the Roof, on Thursday, December 25 at 3:00 p.m. in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Fiddler on the Roof is a beloved film that has stood the test of time – the tale of Tevye, the father of five daughters, and his attempts to maintain his Jewish religious and cultural traditions as outside influences encroach
A publication of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life Klingenstein Jewish Center, 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota, FL 34232 Annual voluntary subscription: $25
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upon their lives. Its songs, too, remain as vibrant and meaningful today as when the film first came out in 1971: “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Matchmaker,
Match-maker,” “To Life” and “Sunrise, Sunset” to name but a few. “We couldn’t think of a better way to honor the longstanding Jewish practice of going to the movies and eating Chinese food on Christmas day than by organizing a fun and festive communi▼
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ty screening of the movie that tells the story of our Jewish people,” said Kim Mullins, Federation COO. “It is all about tradition!” The sing-along screening will include an intermission, when the Chinese buffet will be served. Dress for the event is Shtetl chic (with prizes awarded for best-dressed). Event chairs Andrea Silvergleit and Lisa Berger invite you to bring the whole mishpocheh (family) to schmooze, nosh, sing and dance! Tickets are $36 per person. Visit jfedsrq.org/events to reserve your spot. For more information, please contact Jeremy Lisitza at jlisitza@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2113. ▼
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December 2019
FEDERATION NEWS
Lion of Judah/Pomegranate Luncheon celebrates making a positive impact
M
By M
By Gayle Guynup
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he Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s Lion of Judah/ Pomegranate Luncheon is an annual celebration of the Federation’s Lion of Judah and Pomegranate donors, who make an annual gift of $5,000 and $1,800 (or more) respectively. This year, the luncheon will feature guest speaker Alina Gerlovin Spaulding, one of The Jewish Federations of North America’s most sought-after speakers on the topic of philanthropy and impactful giving. The luncheon, co-chaired by the mother and daughter-in-law team of Barbara and Sepi Ackerman, will be held on Thursday, January 16 at the Sarasota Yacht Club. “Sepi, who is married to my son, converted on her own when she had their second daughter. We have worked on events together, but it was her idea to chair this event, and it has been so special for me personally to watch her
take a leadership role,” said Barbara Ackerman. “A seed was planted and we are watching it grow.” Sepi added, “I am honored to cochair this event with my mother-in-law Barbara because she is not only family, but someone whom I respect and admire. She has been a Lion of Judah for as long as I have known her, and now my daughters can see that since joining the Federation board in 2017, I myself have committed to being a Pomegranate, following in the footsteps of tzedakah (charity) and tikkun olam (repairing the world). Together, we represent a generational continuity of women committed to our Jewish community and have dedicated ourselves to making a positive impact on those around us. I am humbled and excited to be a co-chair, and look forward to the lunch.” Spaulding has done transformational philanthropic work in the areas
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of housing sustainability, Jewish Day Schools, Jewish Federations of North America, the Joint Distribution Committee, youth engagement, the arts, and trauma and mental health care. Recognized as an expert on innovative development strategies, Spaulding helps direct major donors and philanthropists on their giving, and enjoys coaching new donors as they enter the world of development. She has a completed book which has yet to be published, The Guilty Pleasures of a Totally Unbalanced Life. “I believe philanthropy is important for everyone,” Spaulding said. “Women have long been leaders in philanthropy, especially in the Jewish world. In my experience, women have had the remarkable capacity to not only make gifts, but to make an extraordinary difference by leading with inspiration and heart,” she added. “So often when I speak with women, I find them asking: What is it that I can do to make a difference? I think the desire to
leave the world better is something that women are always seeking to do. How lucky we are that we can do that with our philanthropic gifts.” She will also speak about how the Jewish community stepped up to help her and her family during their darkest times and leave the former Soviet Union to settle in the United States. Once designated a Lion, women can wear the internationally recognized Lion pin, which signifies sisterhood and connectedness, philanthropy and power, Jewish values and social action. The Pomegranate pin is worn as a symbol of a woman’s commitment to honoring the mitzvot of tzedakah and gemilut chasadim (righteousness and loving kindness). For more information about the Lion of Judah or Pomegranate designations, or the luncheon, contact Ilene Fox (941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq. org) or Gisele Pintchuck (941.706.0029 or gpintchuck@jfedsrq.org).
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FEDERATION NEWS
December 2019
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Marge and Leon Ellin: beautiful – inside and out! By Marty Katz, Sr. Dir. of Communications and Marketing
I
t was hard to concentrate as I spoke with Marge and Leon Ellin in their downtown Sarasota home. As we chatted, my eyes kept moving to the stunning nine-foot-long painting of a Japanese woodcutter above their couch. It was so colorful and unique, and a perfect artful example of the two of them. The Ellins, who have lived in almost a dozen cities over their 54 years of marriage, began snowbirding here
Marge and Leon Ellin
in 2003 and became full-time residents in 2009. Leon is a turnaround business guy who spent his career being a problem-solver. Marge was a 2nd grade teacher in her early years, but stayed home to raise the children and take on volunteer roles, including being a board member at the Raleigh, North Carolina, Jewish Federation. She mentioned one memorable job during the couple’s years in Chicago. Marge worked at a large Jewish cemetery and proudly said, “I was a member of the gravediggers’ union.” Marge and Leon have supported The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee for many years. Like Leon’s parents, who came to Sarasota in 1969 and were early supporters of the Federation, the couple believes it’s important to support the community and
help people in need. Leon said, “A few years ago, we went through a reassessment of our charitable support. There are so many organizations to support in this community. Some were obvious but many others were not. We decided to use Federation as a clearing house since it’s aware of everything going on, big and small.” In addition to the Federation, the couple supports many other organizations in Sarasota, especially the Ringling Museum, where Leon is a board member. Federation’s Major Gifts Officer, Rich Bergman, said the Ellins have become good friends since they joined him on an Israel mission a few years ago. “To me, they symbolize what’s best in our Jewish community. They are smart, caring, charitable people whom I wish we could clone.” The Ellins actually said the exact same thing about Rich. “Rich is quite a treasure. If you could clone him, you should,” they said. They spoke lovingly of their trip. “We were able to meet people from various aspects of life there. We were in Israel during the Iran conflict and met a Lone Soldier who kept looking at her phone the whole time we were talking to see if she had been mobilized.” That trip, which also included a spectacular helicopter tour, a visit to the Knesset and Israel Tennis Centers, made a lasting impression on the couple. So much so, that the Ellins have now become supporters of the JFED PROUD & STRONG campaign to renovate and expand The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life. Adding their names to the Green Room in the new Beatrice Friedman Theater fits in with their interests of all things arts-related. They were impressed to see the extent of the 32-acre
campus and how much there is to work with. “The Federation has wonderful plans to develop the campus. We want them to do it right and have the funds to do it right,” Leon said. As I was about to leave their apartment, the Ellins gave me a tour and pointed out various pieces of artwork. What amazing works of art I saw, in-
cluding the couple standing with me! For more information on how you can support the JFED PROUD & STRONG campaign to expand The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, contact Ilene Fox (941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org) or Rich Bergman (941.552.6406 or rbergman@jfedsrq. org).
Painting in the Ellins’ home – The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, Artist: Ryota Unno
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December 2019
FEDERATION NEWS
Where your dollars go HONORARY DINNER CHAIRS THE BENDERSON FAMILY INVITE YOU TO A SPECIAL HOLIDAY CELEBRATION!
AJC WEST COAST FLORIDA NATIONAL LEADERSHIP AWARD DINNER
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This series highlights mission-based programs and projects that are supported by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Funding for these initiatives is derived from the Annual Campaign. The series helps to explain where your generous dollars are spent and features certain initiatives that enrich the lives of Jews living in Sarasota-Manatee, local projects with area partners, and overseas programs that support the social and humanitarian needs of Jews in Israel and around the world. Your generous support is found in religious schools every Sunday! See the article below for more information.
Needs-based religious school scholarships Staff Report
T
his year, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee awarded $30,000 to 77 children to help offset the cost of religious school tuition. Committee chair Peter Wells says, “This is one of my most gratifying volunteer experiences – helping families who are deeply in need, and being instrumental in making it possible for the children to be connected to their Judaism. This is a significant aspect of the Federation’s mission.” Parents of children who received scholarship funds shared the following feedback with us: “I am very appreciative and grateful for the scholarship. My son really looks forward to religious school and gets so excited for the holidays in ways he never has before!” School Chabad of Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch Chabad of Sarasota Chabad of Venice and North Port Temple Beth El of Bradenton Temple Emanu-El Temple Sinai Total in Scholarships
“I am very thankful for the scholarship. My daughter often says, ‘I love Hebrew School. I have friends there. I feel like I belong.’ It feels wonderful to hear her so happy.” Bethany Leinweber, Director of Jewish Learning at Temple Sinai, shares, “The needs-based religious school scholarship not only benefits the child receiving an amazing Jewish education and experience, but also the family and our temple. We are beyond grateful for this assistance from the Federation. It’s what being a Jewish community is all about – gemilut chasadim, acts of loving kindness. Thank you from all the students, parents and Temple Sinai members for your continued financial support!” The breakdown of the scholarships is as follows: Amount
# of Students
$4,050 $5,550
17 10
$6,000 $1,800 $4,800 $7,800 $30,000
16 5 12 17 77 Total Students
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December 2019
FEDERATION NEWS
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Authors share odysseys of love and faith
d by s derous Established 1971 ving PUBLISHER that The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee orld. The Larry & Mary Greenspon e the Family Campus for Jewish Life 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 49, Number 12 December 2019 52 pages USPS Permit No. 167
By Gayle Guynup
F
or the first presentation in The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s “People of the Book” author lecture series, authors Marra B. Gad and Angela Himsel will offer a discussion on Jewish identity. The event will be held on Thursday, December 5 at 7:00 p.m. in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Gad is the author of The Color of Love: A Story of a Mixed Race Jewish Girl. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and
January 2020 Issue Deadlines: Editorial: November 27, 2019 Advertising: December 2, 2019
warmth, humor and a multitude of religious and philosophical insights, A River Could be a Tree is a fascinating story of struggle, doubt, identity and, finally, personal fulfillment. Held in partnership with the Jewish Book Council, “People of the Book” will feature six programs on a variety of topics that are sure to delight, educate and intrigue audiences. Future speakers will include: Alexandra Silber, After Anatevka, Monday, January 6 at 7:30 p.m., Riverview Performing Arts Center S. Perry Brickman, Extracted: Unmasking Rampant Anti-Semitism in America’s Higher Education, Wednesday, January 29 at 10:30 a.m., Beatrice Friedman Theater
Ariel Burger, Witness, Thursday, February 13 at 7:00 p.m., Beatrice Friedman Theater Josh Frank, Giraffes on Horseback Salad, Sunday, March 8 at 7:00 p.m., Beatrice Friedman Theater Jack Fairweather, The Volunteer: One Man, an Underground Army, and Sarah Rose, D-Day Girls: The Spies Who Armed the Resistance, Sabotaged the Nazis and Helped Win World War II, Tuesday, April 21 at 10:30 a.m., Beatrice Friedman Theater To purchase tickets, visit jfedsrq. org/books. For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza, Director of Innovation and Volunteer Engagement, at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Change of address inquiries can be sent to Paula Ivory-Bishop at pibishop@jfedsrq.org or call 941.371.4546 x0
PRESIDENT Michael Ritter CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Howard Tevlowitz SENIOR DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING Marty Katz MANAGING EDITOR Ted Epstein ADVERTISING SALES Adam Kaplan – 941.552.6307 PROOFREADERS Edward D. Cohen, Marianne Mandell, Elliot Ofsowitz, Blanche Pasternak, Jeff Sherman, Jill Simons, Linda Stern, Bryna Tevlowitz
Marra B. Gad
holds an advanced degree in modern Jewish history from Baltimore Hebrew University. In her debut memoir, Gad tells a heart-wrenching and heartwarming story about what you inherit from your family – identity, disease, hate and, most powerful of all, love – and what you choose to do with that inheritance. Angela Himsel’s memoir, A River Could be a Tree, traces her seemingly impossible road from a Christian cult to a committed Jewish life. Told with
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.
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 USPS 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.
STAY CONNECTED
HERE’S “ TO LIFE” ON THE GULF COAS T Committed to the Jewish Community for over 20 years, Stacy is passionate about real estate and strives to build ever-lasting relationships based on exceptional service, uncompromising values and a strong work ethic.
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.
L’Chayim
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Angela Himsel
Congregation Kol HaNeshama Jewish Without Labels At Kol HaNeshama, Rabbi Jennifer Singer offers uplifting, participatory services. We sing prayers in Hebrew and English, combining traditional liturgy with contemporary alternatives. Friday evening services are filled with music. More contemplative Saturday mornings include Torah, discussion, and a convivial potluck dairy lunch. We celebrate holidays together, and we share activities: Books & Bagels, classes, social action, Jewish meditation, Jewish Cinema Club, Shabbat-at-Home, and more.
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December 2019
FC
FEDERATION NEWS
2019
ederation
elebration
Our Federation’s annual evening of celebration, honoring those who make it all possible. Again, thank you for all you do for our Jewish community.
2019 Award Recipients – Front Row: Paul Lewis, Dr. Lewis Hanan, Chief Bernadette DiPino, Dr. Anna Kohen, Patti Wertheimer, Sandy Chase, Ed Kalin, Ilene Friedman, Rosann Black; Back Row: Captain Demetri Konstantopoulos, Paul Cantor, Ben Jones, Wayne Ruben, Mitchell Epstein, Dawn Epstein, Adrea Sukin, Lael Hazan, Tommy Bernstein, Mary Collier and Tayla Rosenthal
Michael Ritter, President
Fletcher Family Trio
Chief Bernadette DiPino, Jessi Sheslow and Captain Demetri Konstantopoulos
Nancy Wolk and Anne Spindel, Co-Chairs
Ronna and Wayne Ruben
Randon Carvel, President-elect, and Dr. Lynn Carvel
Ted and Ethna Wishnie with Dawn, Melanie and Mitchell Epstein
Benita Greenspon with Ian and Rosann Black
The Collier Family: Ron, Janis, Mary, Jason, Liza, Celia and Ella
Ilene Friedman and Greg Gregory
Randon Carvel and Michael Ritter
Fe
By T
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December 2019
FEDERATION NEWS
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Federation program staff gives back to the community By Trudi Krames, Program Director
F
ive members of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s program staff participated in the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance (LWRBA) Volunteer Days in October. Each year, the Alliance encourages all its member businesses and professionals to consider dedicating a few hours of their time on one of the three Volunteer Days. Last year, over 150 LWRBA members volunteered in various activities with nearly 20 local non-profits, generating an estimated 500 volunteer hours for those organizations in Sarasota and Manatee counties. How poignant that the Volunteer Days took place between the Yomim Noraim, The Days of Awe between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the holiest of days in Jewish tradition. Although neither biblical nor Talmudic, the Yomim Noraim serve an important purpose, so the sages say. They are a time for personal reflection and introspection, reconciliation and righting the wrongs one committed, and a distinct change in mood from one that was joyous during Rosh Hashanah, to one that becomes more subdued approaching Yom Kippur. What better way to spend the day than giving back to our
community, supporting those less fortunate, honoring the commandments of tikkun olam and gemilut chasadim, repairing the world and performing acts of loving kindness.
Freedom Campus in Sarasota where we worked together to improve the campus’s landscaping. We got down and dirty, pulling up weeds, trimming trees and bushes, spreading fresh mulch and sprucing up the aesthetics to provide a warm and welcoming environment for the residents. The Women’s Freedom Campus is committed to providing programs for its clients to thrive personally and be contributors to their
families and communities. For more information about Harvest House, visit harvesthousecenters.org. Just as we are appreciative of the many volunteers who support our Federation programs and events, it was our privilege and honor to be able to volunteer for these two important organizations and give back to our SarasotaManatee community.
Great Gift for Chanukah! Jessi Sheslow, Trudi Krames and Lisa Feinman at Harvest House’s Women’s Freedom Campus
This year, Andrea Eiffert, Teen and Family Program Coordinator, and Jeremy Lisitza, Director of Innovation and Volunteer Engagement, joined 18 other volunteers at All Faiths Food Bank. While there, they sorted food collected for distribution to people in need at food pantries, soup kitchens, schools, youth organizations, senior centers and emergency shelters. For more information about All Faiths Food Bank, visit allfaithsfoodbank.org. Lisa Feinman, Resource Development Manager, Jessi Sheslow, Director of Community Relations, and I, volunteered at the Harvest House’s Women’s
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December 2019
FEDERATION NEWS
Volunteer Spotlight Bunny Skirboll: pulling rabbits out of a hat By Sandy Chase
B
unny Skirboll, recipient of countless awards, has proved to herself and others that she can achieve the impossible. Hospitalized after a life-threatening auto accident, Bunny finally beat the odds – enriching so many lives. Fortunately for The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, Bunny is at the forefront of supporting the Federation’s mission to build a strong community and better life for Jews at home, in Israel and throughout the world. Her beneficiaries include additional nonprofits, among them Compeer, Inc., an internationally acclaimed organization she founded and directed until 2005. Testimonials abound for this “Leading Lady,” a name bestowed on her by the Sarasota Orchestra as a Maestro Society member. Bunny’s altruism is boundless. A high-school candy striper, and volunteer for many years at the Federation of Rochester, New York (her northern home), Bunny believes one person can make a difference, and volunteering fulfills that belief. Just a few examples explain why Ilene Fox, the Federation’s Chief Development Officer, emphasizes that Bunny is a staunch supporter of the Federation. The 2010 recipient of the Women of Valor award, Bunny began her Federation “career” as a Passover Celebration committee member. She dedicated years of service to the organization, most notably as a three-year board member, past co-chair of the Women’s Division and Vice President of Programming. Her responsibilities as chair and
co-chair included the following events: Women’s Passover Celebration Lion of Judah Luncheon Purim Masquerade Ball Jewish Book festival Women’s Day 60th Anniversary Celebration Jewish Film Festival (JFF) 2019 opening night This year, Bunny is co-chairing the 2020 JFF with Cheryl Shapiro. “I believe in our mission and want
Bunny Skirboll
to do everything possible to promote, enhance and ensure that we continue to be the best!” She says, “I especially enjoy working with our outstanding staff and board.” Bunny claims her challenge is finding time to do everything. Yet, Faith Goodman, a Sarasota Compeer board member says, “She keeps on going just like the Energizer Bunny.” By pulling another rabbit out of the hat, Bunny fulfills her commitments at other organizations, includ-
ing the Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center as board member; the Senior Friendship Centers, co-chairing its fundraising gala “Blooming Friendships;” and her continued dedication to Compeer, Inc. as board member and Sarasota chair. When not helping others, Bunny has time for golf, reading, working out, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. She’s even authored a book entitled Compeer: Recovery Through the Healing Power of Friends. But her biggest challenge, surviving a life-threatening car crash in her 20s and learning how to walk again, all while raising two young children with her husband Mort, created a tenacious individual – “a humanitarian,” says Faith Goodman. According to Bunny, “I promised G-d if I survived, I’d do something with my life to help others. The untiring support of neighbors also inspired me to believe in the healing power of friendship.” Once recovered, Bunny volunteered at the New York Psychiatric Hospital, witnessing how patients were starved for human interaction. Enrolling in the University of Rochester, Bunny received a Master’s of Community Service. Recently she received an honorary doctorate from The College at Brockport, SUNY, another alma mater. Joking, Bunny proudly says, “Now there are two Dr. Skirbolls. Stephen is a neurosurgeon,” referring to her son. Her daughter Lisa is a speech therapist. Hopping hurdles, Bunny founded Compeer, Inc. in 1975. The company gives children and adults facing
mental-health challenges one-on-one friendship with a volunteer. This prestigious international organization – recognized as a national model by the National Institute of Mental Health – has received numerous awards. Another hurdle this snowbird faces is obtaining substantial Florida funding for Compeer’s Sarasota branch, established with the help of the Friendship Centers several years ago. Monica Caldwell, the Centers’ special events and development manager, who met Bunny nine years ago while working with the American Jewish Committee, says, “Bunny’s passion and energy are amazing. Her community connections are invaluable.” As Monica and Ilene attest, Bunny is a terrific ambassador, leader and hard worker. Ilene expands by saying, “She’s a role model for women and girls of all ages. No matter how big a crowd, Bunny always stands out.” Cheryl adds, “I’m pleased to be working with Bunny as my JFF cochair. She organized and executed a remarkable opening night last year.” “Bunny” – a nickname she’s had since high school – captures her essence. Known as Bernice during her career as a social worker, this Jewish Federation “mensch” accomplishes the impossible, always hopping to the occasion. If you are interested in volunteering, there are many ways to contribute and be part of the volunteer life at the Federation. For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza, Director of Innovation and Volunteer Engagement, at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org.
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December 2019
FEDERATION NEWS
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Rabin Medical Center’s Davidoff Cancer Center: a leader in global oncology
The American Friends of Rabin Medi-onecal Center is grateful for this year’s pres-generous support of The Jewish Fedon –eration of Sarasota-Manatee for its y thefunding of five hospital beds at the th –award-winning Davidoff Cancer Center at the Rabin Medical Center in acesPetach Tikvah, Israel. The Davidoff dingCancer Center opened in 2005 and is stab-now being doubled in size and capacshipity by 2020. Here is how your generous support for these five hospitals beds is ters’making a difference in the lives of the man-cancer patients at Davidoff at Rabin agoMedical Center. avidoff Cancer Center is an Jewinternational leader in cansion cer care and has set the stanmmudard as Israel’s first and preeminent Bun-comprehensive cancer center. It is an andadvanced and patient-friendly facility ying, and big a
that treats more than 200,000 patients annually throughout Israel and the world. Davidoff Cancer Center’s research efforts are exceptional in their academic scope, with outstanding doctors, research units with over 30 employees and over 110 original articles published in the past year. The majority of malignant hematological diseases in Israel are treated at Rabin’s Davidoff Cancer Center, as this premier facility remains the largest cancer center in Israel and the only one to include radiation and hematooncology, and all supporting services under one roof. This includes the Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, David Barouk Chemotherapy Day Care Unit, Radiotherapy Unit, Jacques Grunblatt Department of Oncology, Gabrielle Rich Department of Hemato-Oncology and Yoran Center for Oncology Pharmacology. Outpatient clinics include Breast Oncology, Gastrointestinal Malignancy, Head and Neck Tumor, Gynecologic Oncology, Genitourinary Oncology, Lung Cancer and Palliative Care. Rabin’s Davidoff Cancer Center’s multidisciplinary approach focuses on the entire Davidoff Cancer Center spectrum of patients’ wellbeing, including a variety of compassionate treatment options. The holistic approach to cancer treatment includes social services to address psychological and emotional needs, as well as integrative medicine such as acupuncture, shiatsu, reflexology, yoga, pilates and tai chi. Rabin’s Davidoff Cancer Center continues to set the Davidoff Cancer Center - under construction standard for cancer research
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and treatment in Israel in its infrastructure, clinical services and academic environment. A strategic plan for the next decade includes an expansion to double the size of the Davidoff Cancer Center, as it continues to be a global leader in oncology care and treatment. For more information, please call 212.279.2522 or visit www.afrmc.org.
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December 2019
FEDERATION NEWS
The story of Rifka Glatz
HE DESERVES IT BECAUSE...
By Caleigh Patterson, Sarasota Military Academy (SMA) Student
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n Thursday, October 17, Major Pelletier’s class at SMA Prep welcomed an esteemed guest, one who endured many trials, suffered and lost many who were dear to her heart, with a soul of bright sunshine, providing warmth and wisdom. Her name is Rifka Glatz, an 81-yearold Holocaust survivor, soon turning 82. Her story is one of many turns, of heartbreak and adversity, sorrow and pain, and most importantly, of love, joy and kindness. Greeting us with the Hebrew phrase “Shalom,” she shared her story with us. She was born in Hungary in 1937, on October 26, to a Jewish family. When World War II broke out, many Hungarian Jews believed that the rumors of the faraway concentration camps and the “Final Solution” could not be true, and many were reluctant to leave. When Germany entered Hungary in 1943, the oppression of Jews began. Those who were once countrymen
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and women, comrades in arms, neighbors and friends, were now persecuted. Her parents, running a bakery at the time, were forced to give up their establishment along with the other Jewish shopkeepers and tradesmen. She was six at the time, only having completed kindergarten, with no chance of entering first grade as the Jewish children were now prohibited from entering schools. Jewish day-schools were set up, and she attended them. Her father was placed in a forced labor camp, and ultimately starved and worked to death, while his family was anxious about his whereabouts. (They were later informed about his death from his brother-in-law.) They came for them in the middle of summer, her mother telling her older brother to prepare a knapsack and clothe her in many layers to have the clothes, in case she didn’t come back. The Germans took their house and all of their possessions, and boarded the door shut. They were loaded into trucks. She was with her brother and mother when she was taken to the brickyard factory and stayed there for a few months. They slept on dirt, with minimal food and water.
December 25, 2019 • 3:00 PM 582 McIntosh Road • Sarasota
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Mar her how to love, and taught her lessons Thei that the whole world needs to utilize Hille every day. If you see an injustice in the was world, do something. If you can’t, noin ye tify someone who can. G The real crime of the Germans the who didn’t believe in the “Final SoArt+ lution” was that they were bystandand ers and did nothing. The real opposite dent of love is not hate, but indifference. Ring Don’t ignore the hatred and evil in it all the world. If left ignored, it can blosin a som into something truly terrible. man So go forth in love and kindness. Shalom. Rifka is a widow with two children. Her brother has a huge family now and they are very close and loving toward each other. Rifka has three grandchildren and still has the contents of the mezuzah (hidden in her mother’s coat) from her former house in Hungary. Each year, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee works withStud area schools to provide Holocaustvisit education. Thousands of students havemea heard testimony from a Holocaust surO vivor through the Federation’s Hellerens CRC Speakers Bureau. For more in-sukk formation, contact Jessi Sheslow at 941.343.2109 or jsheslow@jfedsrq.org.
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Rezso Kasztner, a Hungarian Jew, a lawyer and a hero, formed a com-By G mittee and decided to deal with Adolf Eichmann, the man who ordered the extermination of Jews in Hungary. They offered jewelry in order to savetion a group. The group of 1,800 randomlynatio selected Jews was put on hold until O further notice. They were going to goto 5 to Spain or Portugal, but they insteadtion went to Bergen-Belsen. It was terrible,its c but not an annihilation camp. She wastrice six and a half at that time and was sep-& M arated from her brother, but was ablefor J to stay with her mother. Rifka turnedSara seven in the camp. Dwo When they were liberated, theyizing were taken to Switzerland and stayedand at a grand hotel for 10 months to re-ing V cuperate. After some time, she wentHolo to Palestine and stayed in a kibbutz, a E communal settlement. She only got toby S see her mother twice a year; however,surv her foster family was very nice. nize The years on the kibbutz taught D mark how terri whe to th W gogu
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December 2019
FEDERATION NEWS
Holocaust Remembrance Day commemoration
Jew, com-By Gayle Guynup Adolf he United Nations General Asthe sembly designated January 27 gary. – the anniversary of the liberasavetion of Auschwitz-Birkenau – as Interomlynational Holocaust Remembrance Day. until On Sunday, January 26 from 3:00 o goto 5:00 p.m., The Jewish Federateadtion of Sarasota-Manatee will hold ible,its commemoration event in the Beawastrice Friedman Theater on The Larry sep-& Mary Greenspon Family Campus ablefor Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Road, rnedSarasota. The speaker will be Deborah Dwork, an American historian specialtheyizing in the history of the Holocaust, ayedand author of several books includo re-ing Voices and Views: A History of the wentHolocaust. tz, a Entertainment will be provided ot toby Sarasota Young Voices. Holocaust ever,survivors and liberators will be recognized at the event. ught Dwork said she will focus her remarks on Jewish refugee children, “on how they fled from Nazi-controlled territory; what their lives were like where they landed; and what happened to them after the war.” With the recent attack on a synagogue in Germany, the Tree of Life
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building attack and the rise of antiSemitism, Dwork believes Holocaust remembrances are more important than ever before. “We can see in real time how we can learn from the lessons of the past and how those lessons are applicable today. As empowered citizens, we have a voice. We have a political voice, and we must use it today.” The event, co-chaired by Edie and David Chaifetz, will be held in partnership with the Butterflies of Hope and Remembrance Project, a year-long initiative of special events and educational programming commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II and the liberation of Nazi concentration camps. On this annual day of commemoration, the United Nations urges every member state to honor the 6 million Jewish victims of the Holocaust and the millions of other victims of Nazism, and to develop educational programs to help prevent future genocides. To RSVP for this free event, visit jfedsrq.org/events. For more information, contact Jessi Sheslow at jshes low@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2109.
New year, new sukkah By Sydney Harlow, Gulf Coast Hillel Program Director
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or Sukkot, Gulf Coast Hillel was able to build a better sukkah thanks to the generosity of Marcy and Michael Klein and family. sons Their meaningful donation allowed ilize Hillel to purchase a new sukkah that n the was sturdier and bigger than we’ve had , noin years past. Gulf Coast Hillel operates on mans the campuses of Ringling College of SoArt+Design, New College of Florida andand USF Sarasota-Manatee. The stuosite dents were able to build the sukkah on nce. Ringling’s campus and spend time in il in it all week! It was strategically located blosin a central and visible spot so that as ible. many people as possible could see it. ness.
dren. and ward chilf the coat) . erawithStudents from all three schools came to austvisit, hang out and eat their snacks and havemeals in the sukkah. surOver the course of the week, dozellerens of people circulated through the e in-sukkah during program hours. Many w at .org.
were Jewish students, but even some staff members from the various campuses and others who were curious stopped by to learn more about the holiday. Students also had the opportunity to shake the lulav and the etrog. The sukkah was decorated with information about Sukkot, with a wall full of funny memes, and plenty of paper chains and handmade fruits that had been crafted by current Hillel students and alumni. For more information about Gulf Coast Hillel, contact me at sydney@ gchillel.org.
Early registration (Dec. 11) - $12 /person Register in advance through the Temple Beth Sholom office or online at templebethsholomfl.org/events. $15/person at the door
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DECEMBER 2019 7 PM TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM
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ב”ה JO I N CHABAD OF B RA D EN TON & L A K E WOOD R A N CH F OR
Chanukah Celebration
L AK E WO OD R ANC H MAIN STREET FEATURING Akiva Bakst (Ringling ’21) shakes the lulav and etrog in the sukkah
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Grand Lego Menorah & Chanukah Gelt Drop Falafel With Yoav Kosher BBQ Kona Ice Truck Chanukah Lego Menorahs Jeff the Juggler Face Painting Doughnut Decorating Hot Latkes Judah the Maccabee Dreidel Mascot Latke Bike Music Dreidel Moonbounce Raffles
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December 2019
FEDERATION NEWS
R
Save the date O
By M
JoinUs
THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2020
Lion of Judah & Pomegranate
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2019
L U N C H E O N
10:00am BEATRICE FRIEDMAN THEATER
The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life • 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota
featuring
Alina Spaulding Sarasota Yacht Club Sarasota, FL 11:30 AM
OPEN HOUSE AND PROGRAM We invite you to learn about the Women’s Giving Circle and the exciting projects we have supported. More than $57,000 was granted by last year’s Women’s Giving Circle members to eleven organizations in Israel benefiting women and children.
Debbie Yonker, Chair
RSVP by November 25 to Brieana Duckett-Graves at 941.552.6305 or bdgraves@jfedsrq.org QUESTIONS? Contact Jeremy Lisitza 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org
From the Ukraine to the U.S.— Alina’s miracle story CO-CHAIRS: BARBARA ACKERMAN AND SEPI ACKERMAN
To learn more about the Lion of Judah and Pomegranate divisions, please contact Ilene Fox at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org.
GUIDING YOU TO EVERYTHING JEWISH IN SARASOTA-MANATEE
Community members and volunteers enjoyed our first Shalom SRQ Live! event in November. We met newcomers who have recently relocated to Sarasota-Manatee and individuals who were unaware of the wonderful organizations that make up our vibrant Jewish community.
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! u o Y k Tha n Attendees Volunteers Participating Organizations
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December 2019
COMMUNITY FOCUS
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Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy (Ex 20:8) By Marden Paru, Dean, Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva | This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
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ne of the greatest contributions of Judaism to all of mankind is the concept of the Sabbath. It was to be a holy day of rest for not only the Jewish people, but for servants and maids, working animals, as well the indigenous non-Jewish population. This concept was revolutionary and totally unknown throughout the civilized world at the time of Revelation 3,300 years ago. Can you imagine the looks on the Israelites’ faces when Moses told them you should abstain
from work one day a week because God rested on the seventh day after creation? Guarding and observing the Sabbath has been a time-honored mainstay of Judaism. The many practices and customs about Shabbat that have evolved over the centuries are said to have preserved the Jewish people. Under the constant threat of punishment or expulsion for observing the Sabbath and other ritual practices, Shabbat was never abandoned on a wholesale basis.
How lucky can we get! By Emily Tennenbaum
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he Sarasota Jewish Chorale Sarasota Jewish Chorale Artistic (SJC) has lucked out with its Director Sharon Greene met Bruce at new accompanist! Bruce Ena Chorale Collective meeting last year singer arrived in Sarasota three years and was so impressed with him. ago and made his mark immediately “Bruce is an accomplished and on the music life of our town. This versatile accompanist. His talent entalented man is now achances our rehearsals and companying Diversity: our performances. We are The Voices of Sarasota, fortunate to have him,” and is Director of Musaid Ronnie Riceberg, sic at St. Andrew United SJC President. Church of Christ. Bruce Besides being an achas been involved as an complished musician who accompanist and organanticipates the needs of ist since 7th grade when the conductor, Bruce has a his father had to drive great reserve of patience. him to his gigs because He performs his job with he was too young to skill and expertise. Bruce Ensinger have a license. On another note, SJC It is our good fortune to collabowelcomes singers of all faiths and rate with Bruce for our 20th annivervoice parts interested in performing a sary season, which will include several diverse repertoire of Jewish music. The engagements for Chanukah and which ability to read music is preferred. Come culminates with an event, sponsored by to a Thursday night rehearsal on The The Jewish Federation of SarasotaLarry & Mary Greenspon Family CamManatee, “Songs of Peace and Joy,” pus for Jewish Life from 7:00 to 9:00 on Sunday, March 29. More informap.m. and check us out. Email Sharon tion can be found at sarasotajewish Greene at maxnana1227@gmail.com chorale.org. to tell her you are coming.
We know because of the anecdotal and oral history of Jews being forced to observe Shabbat in their basements, out of view of church clergy and inquisitors as in the case of the Marranos. What is the history of Shabbat and how is it observed today? What is the impact of technology on Shabbat? How has the Sabbath been incorporated into other religions and how has it impacted our non-Jewish friends and neighbors? What is a “Shabbes goy?” Let’s ask Colin Powell or Elvis Presley! The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva is offering an eight-week course on “The Sabbath” starting Monday, December 2 from 3:15 to 4:30 p.m. We’ll discuss
all facets: the do’s and don’ts as well as the adaptations of contemporary Jewish life to the concept of Shabbat. Classes are held on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. To enroll, please contact me at 941.379.5655 or marden.paru@gmail. com. The fee of $70 includes all materials. This course is open to everyone regardless of background or personal orientation. The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva is a non-denominational not-for-profit organization, which also operates, in part, through a grant from The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.
Call for volunteers for A Taste of Chanukah Festival
Planning for the preeminent community-wide Chanukah celebration is well underway. It will take place on Sunday, December 22 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Phillippi Estate Park and will again feature delectable gourmet kosher food prepared and served by some of the region’s top restaurants, spectacular entertainment, and attractions for the whole family. A large number of volunteers is urgently needed to assist with event operations, including setup, decorating and traffic/parking assistance. If you wish to volunteer, please contact Chabad of Sarasota at 941.925.0770 or info@chabadofsarasota.com.
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14A
December 2019
COMMUNITY FOCUS
Giant menorah and dreidel house at Venice Chanukah Klezmer Festival This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
C
habad of Venice will host its annual Chanukah Klezmer Festival on Sunday, December 29 at 4:30 p.m. at Centennial Park in downtown Venice. Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, this year’s Chanukah event features a fully loaded program, including a live performance from the Freylekh Klezmer Band, a play performed by Chabad’s Hebrew School students, an interactive dreidel house, and arts and crafts for the kids. Traditional foods – latkes, donuts and matzah ball soup – will be served. Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, begins this year on the evening of Sunday, December 22, and concludes the evening of Sunday, December 29. Chanukah commemorates the 2nd century BCE Jewish victory over the oppressive Hellenistic regime, and the miracles that took place as the Jeru-
salem Temple was restored. Upon returning to the Temple, the Maccabees – a name given to the Jewish “freedom fighters” – found only one flask of untainted olive oil with which to light the menorah, yet, miraculously, this one flask lasted for eight days. A menorah is lit for eight nights commemorating the miracle, and it has become a tradi-
tion to eat “oily” foods throughout the festival. This event is not the only Chanukah celebration scheduled this year. Public menorah lightings will take place at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 22 at 396 West Dearborn St. in Englewood, and again on Thursday, December 26 at Warm Mineral Springs
in North Port. “The Chanukah story is about freedom from religious oppression,” said Chabad of Venice Rabbi Sholom Schmerling. “This is a great time for the community to come together, to celebrate the freedom and opportunities this country has presented us with.”
Scenes from past Venice Chanukah Klezmer Festivals
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December 2019
COMMUNITY FOCUS
15A
A pre-Chanukah Celebration at Temple Beth Sholom This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
T
he entire Sarasota/Manatee Jewish community is invited to take a step back in time! Join in at a pre-Chanukah celebration on Sunday, December 15 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. as we enjoy a fun-filled evening of nostalgia. “Evening in the Shtetl – A Pre-Chanukah Celebration!” is an exciting event co-sponsored by Temple Beth Sholom and The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. We will go back to turn-of-thecentury Eastern Europe and experience life as many of our ancestors did. Enjoy an evening of music with a live klezmer band. Allow your palate to come alive with the tastes of latkes and many of the special desserts that
were so common in the shtetl (small village). Almost like magic, two storytellers will appear to share Sholem Aleichem tales in a readers’ theater format. Their authentic Yiddish accents and genuine shtetl garb will add much to the evening. Attendees will sit cabaret style. Bring your friends, clap to the music, and feel free to get up and dance while we spend a couple of hours in the world of our beloved ancestors. The two Yiddish story tellers are Rita Mazur and Alice Cotman. Rita has performed in numerous musicals and cabarets, both locally and internationally. More recently, she has been an integral part of Venice Theatre’s “Troupe in a Trunk,” which brings theatre to
Community Day School honors veterans at Shabbat service
D
uring the recent Veterans Daythemed Shabbat service at Hershorin Schiff Community Day School, Rabbi Michael Werbow of Temple Beth Sholom led a service for preschool through eighth-grade students, honoring veterans with a connection to Community Day. The students sang our national anthem and were led
in a special prayer for veterans. Each veteran shared his name, rank, the branch of the military in which he served, and a few remarks about his time serving our country. A volunteer trumpet player, Gary Reinstrom from First Brass Sarasota, played “Taps” at the end of the service.
thousands of elementary school children each year. Alice Cotman has been acting for the last 20 years at The Players Centre for Performing Arts and Manatee Performing Arts Center. More recently, she wrote and performed in The Bintel Brief, a reading of letters of Jewish immigrants in America. Providing the music for the evening will be Klezmania. The group began performing in 2005, and has a wide and eclectic background that enables it to bring both traditional and modern interpretations to its performances.
Together, the group has chosen to stay in the original style of klezmer music including waltzes, freilachs (happy songs) and songs for the various Jewish holidays. Reservations can be made in advance through Wednesday, December 11 at the discounted rate of $12. Otherwise, cash and check will be accepted at the door, but the price will be $15. To reserve a space, go to temple bethsholomfl.org/events or visit the Temple Beth Sholom office at 1050 Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota.
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For more than 60 community events in December, see the Jewish Happenings section in this issue.
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Hitler’s Jewish Soldiers with Dr. Bryan Mark Rigg
Thursday, December 5, 2019, 7:30 P.M. Presented by The Temple Beth Sholom Men’s Club & TBS Continuing Education
The amazing saga of part-Jews (“Mischlingen”) selected by Hitler to serve in the Nazi army Based on personal interviews with German soldiers of Jewish descent, who served the Third Reich and lived to tell the tale after World War Two Dr. Rigg is a former Marine and professor of military history who has been featured on NBC & in the NY Times
Cost $15 per adult, Youth at no charge Tickets available on the TBS website or at the door Proceeds to benefit the TBS Holocaust Memorial Garden & TBS Judaica Museum Sponsored in part by Temple Beth Sholom - 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, Fl 34237 - 941-955-8121 - www.templebethsholomfl.org
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December 2019
COMMUNITY FOCUS
Aviva makes top marks
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viva – A Campus for Senior Life is proud to announce our 5-Star Rating under the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid for Benderson Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation! This rating means that Benderson is the only Jewish facility in Sarasota to receive this distinction and one of less than 25 facilities in Florida. In addition, we are excited to celebrate the Anchin Assisted Living & Memory Care team on receiving a deficiencyfree survey! As one of the most highly regulated industries in the U.S., the senior living industry is held to extremely high standards for quality and overall resident well-being. The overall goal of these surveys is to ensure that each senior health organization is protecting and serving its clients with integrity. Due to state and federal regulations, our teams are expected to undergo an annual survey period for all levels of care at the Anchin-Benderson building. Aspects evaluated include health inspections, proper staffing and quality measures for patients. These surveys are conducted by the Agency for Health Care Administration and check for a multitude of quality standards within our buildings. All elements of the Anchin-Benderson building were evaluated – physicaland staff-oriented. Surveyors closely examined how patient care is distributed, our record filing system, and even went so far as to test the paint on the walls! This all contributes to the overall score and helps ensure patients have a clean and well-kept environment to receive care. We are proud that Benderson Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation received a 5-Star Overall Rating on its most recent survey. In addition to this amazing achievement, our team also
received high marks in both the Quality Measures and Staffing areas. At Anchin Assisted Living & Memory Care, the community received a zero-deficiency survey, one of the best survey results of any community in Florida! During surveying, the state survey team acknowledged several of our individual team members for their efforts. Over the years, we’ve learned that a 5-Star Rating is not something that comes easily. We’re so proud of the time, effort and attention to detail our
“C dr
team puts into their everyday work to make this accomplishment possible. We couldn’t be prouder of our staff for all of their hard work in creating a nurturing environment for our seniors. At Aviva, the safety, care and overall happiness of our residents is paramount to all else. For more information about Aviva, please call 941.225.8369 or visit www. avivaseniorlife.org.
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December 2019
COMMUNITY FOCUS
17A
Anti-Semitism and Holocaust awareness lecture series at Temple Beth Sholom This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
T
emple Beth Sholom in conjunction with The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee will present a four-part lecture series titled “Lest We Forget” with Dr. Andre Krauss. This series is in support of the 2020 Butterflies of Hope and Remembrance Project to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration camps. Dr. Krauss is an eminent authority on this dark period of Jewish history and will
offer insights that will provide attendees with a better understanding of the dynamics of the Holocaust. Each lecture will be an interactive, multimedia presentation. The titles of the lecture presentations are “Cultural Origins of AntiSemitism,” “Inside Hitler’s Head: The Psychodynamics of Nazi Anti-Semitism,” “Jewish Resistance in Europe During the Holocaust and Anti-Semitism” and “Holocaust Denial and the
“Combating Hatred” draws 200 attendees By Jill Simons
O
n Wednesday, October 16 at Temple Sinai in Sarasota, the National Council of Jewish Women sponsored a panel presentation that included a clinical psychologist, a member of the Islamic Society, a rabbi, and representatives from the NAACP, Equality Florida (LBGTQ) and Embracing Our Differences. According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, hate groups across America increased by 30% last year. In Florida alone, 75 entities have been documented with philosophies from
neo-Nazism, to black nationalism, anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim and antiLGBTQ ideologies. At “Combating Hatred,” the panel examined the factors fueling this increase and what people can do about it. Although hatred will never go away as long as people cannot see past their differences, it is important to realize that a country in upheaval makes a lack of tolerance easier. The general conclusion is that change needs to start at the local level.
Importance of Holocaust Education.” The lectures will be held at Temple Beth Sholom (1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota) on Thursdays, January 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Dr. Krauss is a multi-lingual, published art historian and media psychologist. He was born in Romania and immigrated to Israel at the age of 14. After serving in the Israeli Army, he made his way across Europe and lived in Sweden for 10 years, where he received his first Doctorate in History of Art and Aesthetics. He returned to Israel to teach at the University of Tel Aviv and the Art Academy in Jerusalem. He came to America in 1984, and then returned, part-time, to Romania, where he taught, conducted research, and received his Doctorate in
Social Psychology. In his retirement, and since moving to Sarasota in 2009, he has been teaching a wide array of subjects at schools, places of worship, retirement communities and lifelong learning academies in the area. Al Treidel, Chairman of Continuing Education at Temple Beth Sholom, stated, “We are honored to have such a distinguished scholar lecturing at Temple Beth Sholom on such a critical and timely set of topics. I would encourage all members of the Sarasota/Manatee Jewish community to be in attendance for this incredible series.” The cost for this four-part program is $36. The registration deadline is Tuesday, January 7. Reservations may be made by calling the Temple Beth Sholom office at 941.955.8121 or at www.templebethsholomfl.org/events.
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18A
December 2019
COMMUNITY FOCUS
Temple Sinai’s new caterer, Chef Adam Woldman, thrills taste buds By Gail Glickman
T
emple Sinai is proud to announce our new caterer, Chef Adam Woldman. Born in Pittsburgh, Adam lived in New Jersey and moved to Los Angeles, where he learned to cook at Los Angeles Trade Technical College for Culinary Arts. Adam also attended San Diego Grossmont College for restaurant management. He worked with top catering companies in Los Angeles and gained outstanding experience when he studied with Nancy Silverton, Wolfgang Puck’s pastry chef, who taught Adam many bakery techniques that he has
brought to Temple Sinai. Adam moved to Sarasota and started as chef for Alyson Zildjian at Zildjian Catering at Temple Sinai. He ran the kitchen, working behind the scenes, and prepared the scrumptious dinner for the Chanukah party. Adam succeeded Zildjian as chef and caterer for Temple Sinai, handling all catering for Erev Shabbat welcome receptions, B’Nai Mitzvahs, the teachers’ holiday dinner for The Gan, Men’s Club breakfasts and Women of Sinai luncheons. The recent Women of Sinai dinner and a movie featured his multi-cultural Temple Sinai Chef Adam Woldman presents his tasty bagels
menu, and he provided lunch for the November Women of Sinai luncheon and fashion show.
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Temple Sinai will celebrate the formal installation of Rabbi Samantha Kahn with an elaborate dinner catered by Adam on Friday, December 6. He will add to the festivities on Saturday, December 7 with a special reception at 4:00 p.m. when Rabbi Laura Geller (Rabbi Kahn’s friend and mentor who will install Rabbi Kahn on Friday) will speak about ways to transform the paradigm of aging from one of decline to one of opportunity. Not only has Adam made every morsel a treat at every event, he is now presenting to the public a wide variety of his delicious New York-style bagels sold through Temple Sinai’s website, www.templesinai-sarasota.org. These are a must! Everyone agrees that Adam has brought Temple Sinai’s catering to the highest level.
Temple Beth El is working in the community
T
emple Beth El Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch, along with area churches and the construction people for Habitat for Humanity, will join together to build a home for people in need. This Habitat for Humanity project is one of Temple Beth El’s mitzvot to the community. We know that we will have a long association with this wonderful organization. Habitat for Humanity is a partnership, and not a giveaway program. The homeowner families buy the houses
Don’t dream it...
Temple Beth El members with other Habitat for Humanity volunteers
that Habitat builds, and also invest hundreds of hours of their own labor working alongside volunteers. As a result, the homes are affordable to lowincome families around the world.
Our second commitment to the Bradenton community is with Meals on Wheels. Once a month, the members of the synagogue join with the staff and volunteers at Meals on Wheels to cut and pack fruits and vegetables for those in need, especially homebound seniors.
Temple Beth El members prepare meals for homebound seniors at Meals on Wheels
Initially founded in 1972, the organization’s purpose is to provide hot, nutritious meals to the elderly and disabled residents of Manatee County. Through its programs and services, and the generous funding of the community, it is able to service more clients, members and families each year. Temple Beth El Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch is proud to be associated with both of these wonderful organizations and looks forward to many years of partnership.
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December 2019
COMMUNITY FOCUS
“Show Up For Shabbat,” one year later By Rabbi Michael Werbow
A
year after the horrific shooting at the Tree of Life building in Pittsburgh, a question still lingers about how to best remember and memorialize. The Pittsburgh community engaged in a wide range of commemorations on October 27, which included engagement in social action projects to support the broader community, learning to strengthen the Jewish community, and a memorial service to remember and continue healing. At Temple Beth Sholom, a “Show Up For Shabbat” service was another example of how to respond to this horrible event. Immediately after the shooting, the American Jewish Committee (AJC) promoted “Show Up For Shabbat” as a way to respond. When someone tries to intimidate us and harm us through such a violent act of anti-Semitism, the response is to show our strength and solidarity. “Show Up For Shabbat” on October 26 was a perfect expression of this strength. Strength was shown not only by
the Jewish community but also by our friends and neighbors as well. Speakers at the Shabbat morning services included Brian Lipton, Regional Director of AJC West Coast Florida; Pastor Wes Bixby of First Congregational United
Custom ordered cake shared during the Kiddush after services
Church of Christ; and Imam Mohamed Benkhaled of the Islamic Society of Sarasota and Bradenton. A clear message of solidarity and fellowship was expressed by all. While each speaker shared from their own traditions and beliefs, the feeling of unity that was expressed brought comfort and healing to the community. Temple Beth Sholom was glad to welcome its members, leadership and participants of the AJC, Rabbi Jennifer Singer of Congregation Kol HaNeshama, and Pastor Ashley Nicolls of St. Paul Lutheran Church, along with many other community members “Show Up For Shabbat” speakers Imam Mohamed Benkhaled of the Islamic Society of Sarasota and Bradenton, who were in attendance, Rabbi Michael Werbow of Temple Beth Sholom, Pastor Wes to such an important and Bixby of First Congregational United Church of Christ, and Brian Lipton, Regional Director of AJC West Coast Florida meaningful service.
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Monday, December 16, 2019 11:30 am • Michael’s On East
Temple Emanu-El food drive provides over 70,000 meals
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they are overflowing! For the past two years, Temple Emanu-El’s High Holy Day food drive has been recognized by All Faiths Food Bank as the most successful in Sarasota. With almost 5,000 pounds of food and $7,042 collected this year – an increase of 500 pounds of food and over double last year’s financial donations – Temple Emanu-El hopes to achieve this honor once again! Green thanked the Social Action Committee as well as Sherrie Eisenberg, who recruited temple teens to carry food from donors’ cars into the social hall. “All of the volunteers were terrific,” Green stated. “Every volunteer did exactly what they signed on to do.” “I am bowled over by the response,” added Temple Emanu-El Senior Temple Emanu-El High Holy Day food drive chair Carol Green Rabbi Brenner Glickman. Rosh Hashanah services. They are “I am on the bimah on Yom Kippur, so given paper bags and asked to return I don’t see all of the food coming in them – filled with nonperishable food until it is all over, and the pile is abso– at Yom Kippur services. By the time lutely enormous. I am so proud of our Yom Kippur begins, the pallets are filltemple members,” he concluded, “and ing – and when Yom Kippur concludes, so impressed.” n an annual tradition, Temple Emanu-El made feeding hungry people in Sarasota and DeSoto counties an integral part of its High Holy Day observance. This year’s High Holy Day food drive proved another remarkable success, providing over 70,000 meals for local individuals and families in need. Ably chaired by Carol Green and sponsored by the Social Action Committee, the food drive begins as Temple Emanu-El members and guests leave
Every woman matters here.
The Women’s Giving Circle [“Ma’agal Nashim”] is a giving circle that empowers women as funders, decision makers and agents of change. Each member contributes $518, and each has an equal voice in directing our funds. The giving circle model multiplies individual actions, creating a tremendous collective impact. In the last five years, we have distributed more than $236,632 in grants to nonprofits in Israel that help women and children of all backgrounds live safer, healthier and more meaningful lives.
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Anonymous (29) Robert Aaronson Chazzan Cliff & Jamie Abramson Ruthe Actor Carryl Alexander Hal Alterman & Mary Herman Alejandro Alvarez Nochson Mendel Alvarez Scott Anderson Isaac Azerad Morton Bachikoff Larry Barnet Ruth & Jerry Beck Fae Beloff Ellyn Bender & Pam Paschall Suzy & Barry Benjamin Susan Benson-Steenbarger Rich & Rebecca Bergman Richard Berlin* Benjamin Berman Charlotte Berman Leonard Berman Richard Berman Donald & Bobbi Bernstein Lynn Bernstein Myron & Kathy Bernstein Tommy & Karen Bernstein Fenia Biron Ian & Rosann Black Fred Bloom Samantha Bloom Alice Blueglass Herman Blueglass Joan Blum Barbara Blumfield Colleen Blumenthal Mitchell Blumenthal Amos Bokros Alan Boorstein Fran & Jack Braverman David & Madeleine Brenner Robert & Harriet Brent Deborah Breslof
Donald Britt Barbara Brizdle Samuel & Rachel Brook Heidi Brown Richard Brumberg Rabbi Menachem & Chani Bukiet Yeshyahu Bukiet Frances Burday Michael Burday Ed Buyes Betty Cahall Donald Cahall Judy Cahn Jerry Camens Johnette Cappadona Judy Carson Lynn Carvel Randon Carvel Daniel Ceaser David Chaifetz Edie Chaifetz Channa (Alice) Chanover Vivian Chastain Diane Checkik-Temple Rabbi Michael Churgel Carol Cobb Adrienne Cohen Albert Cohen Esther Cohen Janine & Doug Cohen Jeff & Wendy Cohen Jeffrey & Fran Cohen Norman & Diane Cohen Orit Cohen Shlomo Cohen Yardena Cohen Audrey Coleman Elizabeth Cook Susan Cook Martin Conn Dana Corn Elliott Corn Alice Cotman
Mark & Laurie Criden Abbie & Steve Davis Helene Davis Elizabeth & Mark Del Pico Barbara Dolin Barry Dolin Leon Dorsey Rachel Dorsey Leonard & Geri Drexler Phyllis Dreyfuss Adrienne Driben Matt Eby Mark Eichner Harry Eisenberg* Marsha Eisenberg Ruth Engman Dawn & Mitchell Epstein Albert & Meredith Ernst Esme & Eric Faerber Ellen Fedder * Gloria Feibus Joel Feidelman Sondra Fields Frank & Christa Fineshriber Leslie Fishman Peter Fleischmann Merrill Forgotson Eric & Judy Fox Ilene & Michael Fox Sheila Fox Allie Fraidowitz Marvin & Marsha Frank Walter Frank Laura Freedman William Freund Donald Friedman Julie Friedman Michael & Lynn Friedman Anne Garlington Philip & Suzan Gaynes Eugene Gelpke Shelley Gelpke Barry & Barbara Gerber
Carin Ing-Marie Malkin Bonny Israeloff Robert Israeloff Barbara Jacob Fredy Jacobson Sue Jacobson Lisa Jodwalis Emma Joels Linda Joffe Edward Kalin Isaac & Vivien Kalvaria Alvan Kamis Marc Kanoff Arny & Deanne Kaplan Carolyn Kaplan David Kasse Geraldine Kassof Barbara Katz Michael & Wendy Katz Robert & Marla Katz Sandra Katz Kenneth Kaufman Barbara Kenerson Howard Kilman Sandi Kligman Seymour Klionsky Harry Kochman Joel Kovacs Benjamin Krause Gary & Sandy Kravitz Leonard Kritzer * Laurie Lachowitzer Michael Lacktman Randelle Landman Robert Landman Ellis Lasberg Allen Lawrence Karpe Marc & Barrie Lazarus Judy Lebowich Elad Lev-ari Bob & Rae Levene Bart & Joan Levenson Ruth Levin*
David Gersh Patricia Gersh Stacy Gillman Patricia Glah Stanley Glauser Shirley Glover Bertram & Renee Gold Nancy Gold Roz Goldberg Allan & Miriam Goldfarb Sheldon Goldklang Shelley Goldklang Robert & Luisa Goldman Israel Gopstein Earl & Ethel Gordon David Gorin Susan Gorin Bernice Gourse* Karin Grablin Joshua & Julie Green Jules & Carol Green Melvin & Greta Green Richard & Betty Greenspan Norman & Barbara Gross Cindy Guttman Mo Guttman Judith Haber* Toby Halpern Jerry & Joelle Hamovit Benjamin & Stacy Hanan Carol Harris Craig Harris Karen & Bert Harris Marilyn Harwell Paula Hayden Audrey Heimler Laura Hershorin Betty Hillman Lee Hoffman Rabbi Geoff & Sue Huntting Ken & Wendy Hurwitz Ronald Hyatt Ruthy Hyatt
Ma Ric Sc Sta Mic Ro Ge Bo Ph Ro Ke Lar Hila Lin Jer Yu Suz Ye Ma Do Do Ch Ra An Ma Bria Ke Lui Mir Ro Me Ph Go Bria De Ma Ne Sus Dia Jos Sta Be Lew
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Sue Rosin Jason Ross Martin & Irene Ross Terry Roth Brent Rubin Daniel & Shellie Rubin Izabella Rubin Ricki Rubin Stanley Rutstein Gloria Sabin Rachel & Darren Saltzberg Harold Samtur Harry Samuels Marjorie Sandy William Sandy Howard Schechter Mark Schlanger Anne Schmerling Rabbi Sholom & Rivka Schmerling Barbara Schur Suzanne Schuster David Schwartz Donald Schwartz Samuel Schwartz Sharon Schwartz Jeffrey Sedacca Steve Seidensticker* Peter Seitzman Sara “Suki” Sellinger Joel & Felicia Servetz Berta Shaffer Clay Shafton Allan & Gail Shaivitz Gerard & Barbara Shapiro Robin & David Shapiro Steven Shapiro Mark & Margaret Sharff Hirsh & Goldie Shifrin David & Larissa Shutovsky Linda Silver Alan & Cindy Silverglat Robert Simon Sheri Simon
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Norman Weinberg Kyla Weiner Laura Weinshel Steven Weinshel Steve Weintraub & Sarah Johns Melvin Weisel Kirk & Diane Weisman Linda Weiss Peter & Joan Wells Louise & Jud Werbelow Rabbi Michael & Melissa Werbow Alan & Judith Wertheimer Patti & David Wertheimer David Wicentowski Wendy Wicks Frank Wieckowski Michele Wieckowski Brenna Wilhm Marvin Wolf Linda Wolfe Craig Wolpert Scott Woolf Daryl Worobow Karen Worobow Stanley & Cynthia Wright Merrill & Sheila Wynne Larry & Sheree Zaslavsky Sharon Zawadski Harry & Doddie* Zehnwirth Dennis Zimmerman Merrill Zinder Jerry Zingerman Gayle Zingerman* Calvin & Patricia Zoelner Alan Zuckerman *Of blessed memory If we have inadvertently omitted any individual or have misspelled any names, please accept our apologies & contact Gisele Pintchuck so we can properly acknowledge you.
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December 2019
COMMUNITY FOCUS
Sarasota streets named for Jewish people By Kim Sheintal, President, Jewish Genealogical Society of SWFL
See You In December Wednesdays:
The Original Brown Bag with Rabbi Geoff Huntting
December
6:
December
7:
December
27:
Rhythm & Jews Shabbat Service and Installation of Rabbi Samantha Kahn Continuation of Rabbi Samantha Kahn Installation Weekend Rhythm & Jews Chanukah Shabbat Service with Latke Bar
For more information on upcoming events and Temple Sinai, visit SinaiSRQ.org
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ost people driving in Sarasota on a frequent basis might not realize that many streets in Sarasota are named after Jews. In most cities in the United States, subdivision developers have the privilege of naming new streets. The names are submitted to the city through relevant departments for review and acceptance. In 1949, Martin Paver and his wife Mildred visited Sarasota. Shortly thereafter, they decided to move their family here from Great Neck, Long Island. The Paver family soon became the most important developers in the area. Martin Paver started Paver Construction Company with his sons Stanley and Paul. Their motto was to “build better than the building codes
In Kensington Park, the Paver family named the following streets after family members: Schwalbe Drive (maiden name of Stanley Paver’s wife Roxane), Randa Boulevard (Paul Paver’s daughter), Andrea Street/Andrea Place (Paul Paver’s daughter), Monica Parkway (middle name of Paul Paver’s wife Doris) and Roxane Boulevard (Stanley Paver’s wife). In Kensington Park, the following streets were named after salesmen and friends of Stanley and Paul Paver: Melgert Place (named after Mel and Gertrude Cole) and Lench Place (named after Jack Lench). Kalin Lane, near Landings Boulevard and Tamiami Trail/41, is named after Ed Kalin, who moved to Sarasota from Asheville, North Carolina, in 1950 and opened Kane’s Furniture that same year. Kalin became a prominent fixture in the Sarasota-Manatee real estate market. Cohen Way in the Rosemary District is named after David Cohen, musician, conductor and cofounder of the Florida West Coast Symphony The intersection of Cohen Way and Boulevard of the Arts has recently become a popular destination for dining (today’s Sarasota Orchestra). required and create a place where you He was Sarasota’s first Jewish mayor would like to live and raise a family.” (1964-1966). He moved to Sarasota in Over the next 50 years, their company the 1940s from Petoskey, Michigan. built more than 6,000 homes and many Rosin Way (east off of Clark) is commercial properties throughout named after Marcus Aurel Rosin, SaraSarasota County. Their developments sota’s first Jewish attorney, who was included Paver Park and Kensington born in Arcadia in 1907 and moved to Park, in which they named the streets Sarasota in 1951. after many of their family members The next time you want to take a and friends. leisurely drive in Sarasota, look for the In Paver Park, the Paver family aforementioned streets and be proud named the following streets after family that so many streets in Sarasota are members: Sydelle Street (Martin Pavnamed after Jewish people. er’s daughter), Cheryle Lane (Stanley Paver’s daughter), Nancy Street (Stanley Paver’s daughter), Martin Street (named after Martin Paver), E. Paulstan Court (named after Paul and Stanley Paver) and Milmar Drive (named after Mildred and Martin Paver).
Need to reach the editor of The Jewish News? Send an email to jewishnews@jfedsrq.org.
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December 2019
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23A
A zany crew pulls a fast one on the Third Reich in this surprising tale based on actual events Book review by Philip K. Jason, Special to The Jewish News The Ventriloquists: A Novel by E.R. Ramzipoor. Park Row Books. 544 pages. Hardcover $26.99
T
his astonishingly original debut novel draws upon a little-known piece of WWII history and the text of a journalistic hoax. It pays homage to the human spirit that can thrive in the midst of the cruelest oppression. The Ventriloquists begins with, and often returns to, the need for someone to ask and answer questions. The questioner, a woman named Eliza, has heard something about this historical event and, fasPhil Jason cinated, has spent 12 years tracking down a witness or participant. Now she has found one, an old lady named Helen. While author E.R. Ramzipoor often returns to the present-time conversation between Eliza and Helen, Helen’s story (or Eliza’s transcription thereof) reaches into a past in which the hoax was hatched and executed. We are introduced to the main players. Their names, nicknames, personalities and experiences are slowly, vividly revealed. For the most part, the narrative is set in occupied Brussels, with some scenes in the small Belgian town of Enghien. The principal character is the main instigator of the grand charade, a journalist with a comic flair named Marc Aubrion (nicknamed “The Jester”). He is an intuitive planner and improvisor.
Among the other six key characters are prostitute/smuggler Lada Tarcovich; David Spiegelman, who can write in the voice and persona of others; and Gamin, a girl disguised as a boy, who sets fires, creates confusion, picks pockets and carries out risky tasks in service to Aubrion’s scheme. They and others form part of the resistance movement that wants to block the omnivorous Reich, as well as Russian expansion. It is late 1943, and resistance forces are stalling until the Allies arrive. To implement their plan for replacing an edition of the Nazi-propagandafilled Le Soir with their own send-up version, Faux Soir, the conspirators need paper, ink, typewriters, typesetting machinery, a distribution system, money, hiding places and storage space.
E.R. Ramzipoor (photo credit: Sherry Zaks)
They must also fool, among others, August Wolff, the regional Nazi paramilitary officer. Working under Himmler, Gruppenführer Wolff is somehow fooled by this motley crew, whose members agree to aid the Axis with their journalistic and other talents. Their skill at deceiving him is another kind of ventriloquism. The novel explodes with released
suspense every few pages as the chapters and their subdivisions shift from character to character, setting to setting, and obstacle to obstacle. Eventually, the critical needs of the Faux Soir scheme are met, but not without close calls and tragic losses. All along the way, time is of the essence. Faux Soir must come out on the same day that Le Soir is due to hit newsstands. Author Ramzipoor amplifies this time bind with “countdown” chapter headings: “17 Days to Print Afternoon,” 15 Days to Print Late Morning” and so forth. Readers are ushered back to the storyline’s ongoing present (with Eliza and Helen, the latter of whom is the much older incarnation of Gamin) via headers like “Yesterday,” and to events occurring long before the Faux Soir caper with “3 Years Before Faux Soir.” Ramzipoor’s control over the manipulation of time-sensitive information is splendid, and the results are magnetic. The main narrative, energetic enough, is further enlivened by unexpected subsidiary areas of interest. Perhaps the most thought-provoking and emotionally fraught subplot has to do with the relationship between Lada and a female judge. The thread involving these lesbian lovers and the circumstances that test their various loyalties could launch a fascinating sequel. In today’s world of propaganda wars, fake news and alleged fake
news, The Ventriloquists holds up a dazzling looking glass for those intent on silencing others and for those who will not be silenced. This review was first published in the Washington Independent Review of Books 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, Washington Independent Review of Books, Southern Literary Review, other publications and the Jewish Book Council. Please visit Phil’s website at www.philjason.word press.com.
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December 2019
JEWISH INTEREST
David Lehman’s top ten Christmas songs written by Jews By Arlene Stolnitz
D
on’t get me wrong! I’m a nice Jewish girl from upstate New York. But still, I like hearing a Christmas tune during the holiday season, while at the same time wondering why these same composers, mostly Jewish, wrote lots – mostly all – of the great American Christmas songs. But Arlene Stolnitz not one of them ever wrote a Hanukkah tune, which does make me wonder! I do know the reason. It was their desire to be more American. But not even a single song? Recently, I came across an interesting book about the story of American popular music having been written largely by Jews. David Lehman, poet, literary critic and non-fiction writer, is the author of A Fine Romance: Jewish Songwriters, American Songs. Lehman is the son of European Holocaust survivors and grew up in Manhattan, where he attended Stuyvesant High School and Columbia University, and then the University of Cambridge in England. His many accomplishments include writing for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, American Heritage and The Washington Post. He is the series editor for the prestigious Best American Poetry, of which he is the founder. In an interview published in Smithsonian magazine, Lehman discusses the artistry of the great lyricists: “The best song lyrics seem to me so artful, so brilliant, so warm and humorous, with both passion and wit, that my admiration is matched only by my envy...
these lyricists needed to work within boundaries, to get complicated emotions across and fit the lyrics to the music, and to the mood thereof. That takes genius.” And yet we know that these same composers were anxious to shed their immigrant past and reinvent themselves as American. The lyrics represent an America that offered a new idea of what America should be, even in the face of changing times, and it was especially true during the holiday season. It was their “affirmation of American ideals as they understood them… pressing back against the forces that aimed to extinguish them.” Recently, Lehman was asked to list his top ten Christmas songs written by Jews. 10. “The Christmas Waltz,” music and lyrics by Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne 9. “Silver Bells,” music by Jay Livingston, lyrics by Ray Evans 8. “Winter Wonderland,” music and lyrics by Felix Bernard 7. “Santa Baby,” music and lyrics by Joan Ellen Javits and Philip Springer 6. “Sleigh Ride,” lyrics by Mitchell Parish (born Michael Hyman Pashelinsky) 5. “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” music by Buck Ram and lyrics by Walter Kent 4. “I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm,” music and lyrics by Irving Berlin 3. “Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow,” music by Julie Styne, lyrics by Sammy Cahn 2. “The Christmas Song” (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire), music and lyrics by Mel Torme and Bob Wells
FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE “THRILLING”
1. “White Christmas,” music and lyrics by Irving Berlin And, yes, they are all Jewish composers and lyricists! Lehman says, “This Christmas phenomenon is just one example of this larger point: that the story of American popular music is massively a Jewish story.” Their art is not one of defiance but an affirmation of American ideals. But still the question remains. Where are the Hanukkah songs that could have been written? We all know “Hanerot Hallelu,” “Ma’oz Tzur,” “Hanukkah, O Hanukkah” and “The Dreidel Song” – just a few tunes in the Hanukkah repertoire. As I have noted in an earlier column, we do have Hanukkah songs written by contemporary composers. One I
would like to focus on is the Maccabeats’ song “Burn.” It incorporates a modern interpretation of a Hanukkah song with the problem of bullying. In doing so, the group is addressing a social issue in modern society. How clever! I am always on the lookout for more tunes like this one. You can hear and see their accompanying video on YouTube. Check it out! 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 The Venice Chorale. Her interest in the preservation of Jewish music of all kinds has led to this series of articles on Jewish Folk Music in the Diaspora.
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December 2019
JEWISH INTEREST
wsStars of David
By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist
cca-Editor’s note: Persons in BOLD CAPS are deemed by Nate Bloom to be Jewish es afor the purpose of the column. Persons identified as Jewish have at least one Jewkkahish parent and were not raised in a faith other than Judaism – and don’t identify ying.with a faith other than Judaism as an adult. Converts to Judaism, of course, are ng aalso identified as Jewish. HowAt the Movies: December Offerings were raised in New York, are of Syrian t forJumanji: The Next Level opens on FriJewish background. This is the brothhearday, December 13. It is a sequel to Juers’ first big budget studio film, having o onmanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017). made five well-received smaller budCapsule plot: A team of friends returns get flicks in the last 12 years. Gems has ara-to Jumanji to rescue one of their own received great advance reviews, with er ofbut discover that nothing is as they star ADAM SANDLER, 53, getting e. Aexpect. The players need to brave unusually good notices. Sandler plays Newparts unknown in order to escape the a jewelry store owner who is a compuloupsworld’s most dangerous game. JACK sive gambler. He has to find a way to s inBLACK, 50, reprises his role in the pay his debts before it is too late. The st in2017 film. JAKE KASDAN, 45, disupporting cast includes IDINA MENof allrects. His father is director LAWZEL, 48, and JUDD HIRSCH, 84. iclesRENCE KASDAN, 70 (The Big Chill, Trivia break: There are other perora.many others). All the Jumamji films sons of Syrian Jewish background are based on the 1981 children’s novel who have made it in showbiz: JERRY Jumanji by CHRIS VAN ALLBURG, SEINFELD, 65 (his late mother was 70, who converted to Judaism decades of Syrian Jewish ancestry; his father, ago. Ashkenazi); actor DAN HEDAYA, 79 Also opening the 13th are Richard (you know his face; among others, he Jewell and Uncut Gems. The former is played Nick, the no-good ex-husband a Clint Eastwood biopic about Jewell, of Carla, the waitress, in Cheers, and a security guard who found a backpack ALICIA SILVERSTONE’s father in with three pipe bombs at the Atlanta Clueless); and JUSTIN HURWITZ, site of the August 1996 Olympics. 34, the Oscar-winning composer of La He saved many lives when he alerted La Land. His father is Ashkenazi and police and helped evacuate the area. his mother is of Lebanese and Syrian However, shortly thereafter, an FBI Jewish ancestry. leak to the press led to reports that he Opening Friday, December 20 is was suspected of planting the bombs. Star Wars: The Rise of Starwalker. His life became hell for two months. Advance publicity promises us that In October 1996, he was completely this film will be the final part of the cleared when the actual bomber was nine-episode Skywalker saga. This is identified. The screenplay is by BILLY a biggie, so I won’t go into plot deRAY, 48, an Oscar-nominated writer tails. I will simply note that this one, and director who has joked that his like the last three really big Star Wars name doesn’t “sound Jewish.” films, was directed and co-written by Gems is a black-comedy crime film J.J. ABRAMS, 53. Also, one sad note: directed and co-written by brothers CARRIE FISHER, who died in 2016, JOSH and BENNY SAFADIE (35 and does appear as Princess Laia one more 33, respectively). The brothers, who time. They are using footage from the
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Interested in Your Family’s History? Nate Bloom (see column at left) has become a family history expert in 10 years of doing his celebrity column, and he has expert friends who can help when called on. Most family history experts charge $1,000 or more to do a full family-tree search. However, Bloom knows that most people want to start with a limited search of one family line.
So here’s the deal: Write Bloom at nteibloom@aol.com and enclose a phone number. Nate will then contact you about starting a limited search. If that goes well, additional and more extensive searches are possible. The first search fee is no more than $100. No upfront cost. Also, several of this newspaper’s readers have asked Bloom to locate friends and family members from their past, and that’s worked out great for them. So contact him about this as well. two Star Wars films she made just before her death. Guide to Tribe Members with a Big Impeachment Connection Congress: ADAM SCHIFF, 59, the chair of the House Intelligence Committee; JERROLD NADLER, 72, the chair of the House Judiciary Committee; and Republican House member LEE ZELDIN, 39, a big President Trump supporter; Witnesses: Ambassador GORDON SONDLAND, 62 (his parents were refugees from Nazi Germany), and Lt. Col. ALEXANDER VINDMAN, 44 (born in Ukraine; came to the States when he was 3). Other: LEV PARNAS, 47, and IGOR FRUMAN, 47ish, the Ukraine-born associates of Rudy Giuliani. They are charged with using foreign funds to influence American elections. Kosher Superheroes and Other Cast Notes The number of Jews playing superheroes based on comic book charac-
ters continues to rise. It was recently announced that ZOE KRAVITZ, 30, will play Catwoman in The Batman, a big feature that will open in 2021 (Robert Pattinson plays Batman). Other tribe members playing superheroes include GAL GADOT, 34, as Wonder Woman; NATALIE PORTMAN, 38, as Jane Foster (who often can wield Thor’s powers); SCARLETT JOHANSSON, 35, as Black Widow; EZRA MILLER, 27, as The Flash; and PAUL RUDD, 50, as Antman. Next February, you can catch Kravitz in High Fidelity, a 10-episode series on Hulu. It’s based on the hit 2000 movie of the same name about people working in a hip little record store. Also, last month, it was announced that Gadot will produce and star in Irena Sendler. This biopic is about the Polish Jewish heroine who saved thousands of Jewish children during the Holocaust.
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December 2019
JEWISH INTEREST
Establishing the Łódź ghetto By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD
F
riedrich Übelhör was a German politician and Nazi Party official governor who ordered the construction of the Łódź ghetto on December 10, 1939 – 80 years ago this month. He was born on September 25, 1893, in Bavaria. His father was a professor at the University of Würzburg, the city from where Übelhör graduated from high school in 1913. He joined an artillery regiment when war broke out in 1914, and then served for four years, fought on the Western Front, Dr. Paul Bartrop was assigned to the Army High Command, and received various decorations. He ended the war as a first lieutenant. After the war, Übelhör served in the Freikorps militia of General Paul von Lettow-Vorbeck, and took part in the suppression of the communist uprising in Hamburg on July 19, 1919. He studied law and political science in Freiburg and Würzburg for five semesters but dropped out and did not complete his degree. He joined the Nazi Party in 1922. In 1924, Übelhör moved to Naumburg, and on April 4, 1925, married Asta Popperoth, daughter of the former Higher Regional Court Vice-President, Ludwig Popperoth. By June of 1925 he had become politically active, reorganizing the regional Party structure in Naumburg. In 1931, he became Nazi Party County Leader in Naumburg and was elected to the Reichstag on March 5, 1933. Poland was invaded in September 1939, and the city of Łódź, second only to Warsaw in population and in the size of its Jewish community, was oc-
cupied by the Germans on September 8, 1939. On October 26, Übelhör was appointed as the provisional governor of the Kalisch district, with the rank of SS-Obersturmbannführer (lieutenant colonel). On November 9, Łódź fell under the authority of Gauleiter Arthur Greiser, who sought the rapid and total Germanization of the areas under his command. It took little time for the Jews of Łódź to be subjected to rigorous legal orders and bans. On November 14, Übelhör announced additional restrictive measures: Jews were to wear a distinguishing Jewish yellow patch on their clothing, and a curfew was introduced for Jews between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. Übelhör’s order to mark the Jews of Łódź was the first of its kind enacted in the Third Reich, having no previous basis in Nazi legislation. The head of the Reich Security Main Office, Reinhard Heydrich, would later promulgate a decree on October 1, 1941, relating to the identification of Jews, but this did not apply to children under the age of six. Übelhör’s decree certainly applied to infants; violations were punished by death, thus going well beyond that of his superior. The Jewish community had their businesses taken away. They were imprisoned in their own apartments and, prevented from supporting themselves, were left without any means to survive. Many Jews were shot, and many others froze to death. According to Nazi estimates, more than 71,000 Jews either left or were deported from Łódź during the first few months of the occupation. On December 10, 1939, Übelhör produced a report on the feasibility of establishing an enclosed area for Jews. Estimating that there were some
230,000 Jews in the greater Łódź region, he reported that he would be able to collect all of these into a ghetto. His report set out the boundaries of where the ghetto should be, and noted that preparation and execution of the plan would be carried out largely by German officers from different policing agencies. The ghetto would be enclosed in barbed wire and its borders guarded. A Jewish administration would be set up. Food and fuel for the ghetto was to be paid for by an exchange of materials in order to obtain from the Jews “all their hoarded and hidden items of value.” Übelhör thereupon ordered the construction of the ghetto and was instrumental in the destruction of the Jewish population. The Łódź ghetto was formally established in February 1940. It was sealed on May 1, 1940, surrounded by a wooden fence, barbed wire and armed guards. Bridges were built over city streets that ran through the ghetto, thereby allowing the Jews to move to and from various sections of the ghetto without leaving it. A tram ran through the ghetto, but for non-Jews only, and no stops were made inside. The ghetto at Łódź became the longest lasting of all the Nazi-imposed ghettos in Poland, operating for more than four years. Conditions for the Jews impris-
oned inside were terrible. Overcrowding, disease (tuberculosis, typhus and dysentery, among others), atrocious sanitation, and the absence of electricBy R ity and running water were only some of the things that threatened survival. Hunger, leading to death by starvation, as well as contributing to the outbreak of some of the diseases already noted,Chri was perhaps the greatest burden withinour the ghetto. Unlike some other ghet-like tos, there was virtually no successfulPC a Unit smuggling of food into Łódź. Friedrich Übelhör was dismissedthat
I
from his post as governor of Łódź in December 1942 after being accused of embezzlement. The charges were ultimately unproven, but the suspicion damaged his reputation and halted his advancement in the SS. In the latter days of World War II, he disappeared, and remained unaccounted for until he was declared legally dead by the West German government in 1950. Rab On January 19, 1945, when the thou Soviets liberated the ghetto – created 80 years ago this month – fewer thanwe a F 10,000 of the 230,000 Jews of Łódź thos had survived. Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of His-and tory and the Dir. of the Center for Ju-a cha daic, Holocaust, and Genocide Studieswere at Florida Gulf Coast University. Hechal can be reached at pbartrop@fgcu.edu. leng of a tell y very mas, who custo has tradi ing C that week Jewi to th
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December 2019
JEWISH INTEREST
27A
Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing old
Jews and “Jingle Bells” – sharing the holiday with our Christian friends
By Rabbi Barbara Aiello
I
“
t’s that time of year when the world falls in love.” Beautiful words for a beautiful time. Christmas time. For us Jews it is not our time of the year, but many of us like it just the same. In recent years, a PC assault on Christmas has swept the United States, leading many to believe that religious minorities have gone sour on the holiday. That being said, I want to share two things that have grown out of my decades of experience with interfaith issues. First, Jews don’t dislike Christmas. Rabbi Barbara Aiello And second, even though we don’t observe the holiday, we are glad that Christians do. For many of us Jews, especially those of us who grew up in the ’50s and before, we remember December as a challenging time. For those of us who were parents of Jewish children, the challenges were especially, well, challenging. Anyone who identifies as part of any minority group probably will tell you the same thing. It’s sometimes very hard to be different. At Christmas, Jews are part of a tiny minority who are not embracing practices and customs that almost the entire country has adopted and made into a national tradition. We’re on our own, celebrating Chanukah, a minor Jewish holiday that this year falls during Christmas week. So it’s understandable if the Jewish celebration takes a back seat to the month-long hoopla surrounding
the observance of another religion. For our children it can be confusing. For us grown-ups it can be exhausting. But for the most part, we Jews aren’t mad about it, and many of us enjoy being guests at the party. Over the years, that’s how I approached the “December Dilemma” with my family. Given the Chanukah Christmas crossover this December, you may find this approach helpful when discussing holidays with friends, colleagues, co-workers and interfaith family members. In his book, The Art of Jewish Living, Dr. Ron Wolfson comments on toddlers and how they behave at birthday celebrations. It’s not unusual that when the cake is brought to the table, all the other children try to blow out the candles along with the birthday boy or girl. Then as the gifts are opened, each child reaches for the toys. Wolfson tells us that is why party favors or “goody bags” were invented. These teach children the important lesson of “This belongs to you and that belongs to her.” Children learn the difference, Wolfson says, between celebrating one’s very own birthday and celebrating another’s special day. Wolfson applies this message to Jewish families who live in a Christmas culture. Christmas is someone else’s party, not ours. Just as we can appreciate someone else’s birthday party, just as we can admire the gifts and decorations, just as we can eat the cake and maybe even take a token gift home with us and, most important, just as we can be happy for them, so too, can we
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marvel at the beauty of the Christmas season. But it is not our party. It belongs to someone else. Over the years, I’ve noticed something interesting about the Christmas season. I can walk through a shopping mall, scoot into the supermarket and dash into the drugstore, and amazingly most people are in a good mood. They’re dropping dollars into the Salvation Army kettle, they’re filling “Adopt a Family” food baskets, they’re more patient with their kids and they’re smiling at one another. There is less violence on television and more “family specials.” The songs on the radio share thoughts of peace, brotherhood and goodwill. If the national focus on Christmas is responsible for this positive change in behavior, then I’m all for it. So what do we do about Christmas? Many Jews appreciate invitations to neighborhood parties and being included in holiday gift exchanges at social clubs or at the office. We like it when non-Jews send us a Chanukah greeting or a card that wishes us “Hap-
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py Holidays.” And when they sing carols around the piano, we’re not offended. It’s their party. If we’re friends or even family members, we’re happy they asked us to join them. So, to all our friends in the Christian community, we Jews wish you a happy holiday season. We wish you and your families a season of peace, understanding and joy. For these are the very same things we pray for in our synagogues each week and work toward in our Jewish communities every day. Our families join yours in the belief that love for, and peace between, all people can happen in our time. And we applaud your celebration of values and ethics that apply to all people of goodwill everywhere. And yes, we wish you a Merry Christmas! Rabbi Barbara Aiello is rabbi at Sinagoga Ner Tamid del Sud in southern Italy – a country where Christmas Nativity scenes are displayed in both private and public venues. She says, “Here in Italy Christmas is culture. And no, I am not offended.” She can be reached at www.rabbibarbara.com.
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December 2019
JEWISH INTEREST
AJC 2019 Survey of American Jews on Antisemitism in America
O
n October 23, 2019, the American Jewish Committee (AJC) released the results of its landmark survey of American Jewish opinion on antisemitism in America. The poll represents the largest and most comprehensive examination ever of American Jews’ experiences and perceptions of antisemitism. This survey makes clear that American Jews view antisemitism as a significant problem in America – and one that is getting worse. An overview of some of the key findings are below. For the full results along with in-depth analysis, go to AJC.org/Antisemitism-Survey-2019. Antisemitism in America 88% of American Jews believe antisemitism is a problem in America
today and 84% say it has increased over the past five years, including a plurality (43%) who say it has increased a lot. More than a third of all American Jews (35%) say they have personally been the targets of antisemitism over the past five years; nearly a quarter (23%) say they’ve been targeted by antisemitic remarks in person, by mail or by phone; a fifth (20%) say they’ve been targeted by antisemitic remarks online; and 2% say they’ve been physically attacked for being Jewish. Nearly a third (31%) of American Jews have avoided publicly wearing, carrying or displaying things that might help people identify them as Jewish, while 25% say
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they avoid certain places, events or situations out of concern for their safety or comfort as Jews at least some of the time. Young people between the ages of 18-29 are the most vulnerable, with nearly half (45%) saying they have been the victims of antisemitism over the past five years, and four in ten (38%) saying they have concealed their Jewishness in public – more than any other age group. Antisemitism and Israel American Jews overwhelmingly believe that anti-Zionism – that is, the belief that Israel should not exist – is a form of antisemitism: 84% of respondents said the statement “Israel has no right to exist” is antisemitic. 80% of respondents said the statement “The U.S. government only supports Israel because of the Jewish money” is antisemitic, and 73% said so about the statement “American Jews are more loyal to Israel than to America.” Only 14% of American Jews say the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Movement targeting Israel is not antisemitic; over a third (35%) characterized the movement as mostly antisemitic, while 47% said it is not mostly antisemitic but has antisemitic supporters. The more familiar American Jews are with the BDS Movement, the more likely they are to consider it to be antisemitic, with a majority of those who say they are “very familiar” with the movement characterizing it as mostly antisemitic. Government Response 72% of American Jews disapprove of President Trump’s handling of
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the threat of antisemitism in America, compared to only 24% who approve. Respondents’ assessment of President Trump’s response to antisemitism varied vastly by their political affiliation, with 84% of Republicans expressing approval of the President’s response, compared to only 4% of Democrats. 81% of American Jews characterize U.S. law enforcement’s response to antisemitism as either very or somewhat effective, compared to only 15% who said the response is not too effective or not effective at all. Responsibility for Antisemitism 89% of American Jews believe the extreme political right represents a threat to Jews in the United States, while 85% say the same of extremism in the name of Islam, and nearly two thirds (64%) say so about the extreme political left. American Jews assign greater responsibility to the Republican Party for the current level of antisemitism in the United States than they do to the Democratic Party. When asked to assign responsibility on a scale of 1 (no responsibility) to 10 (total responsibility), respondents assigned the Republican Party an average score of 6.2, while the Democratic Party scored a 3.6. While those who identify as Republican or Democrat tend to assign greater responsibility to the opposite party, American Jews also view their own parties as having some responsibility for the current level of antisemitism in America, with each rating their own party with similar scores of 2.7.
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December 2019
JEWISH INTEREST
K’zohar Ha-Ivrit Ner – Candle By Dr. Rachel Zohar Dulin
H
anukkah, the Holiday of Lights, is at our door. The lit candles placed in the menorah (Hanukiya in modern Hebrew) remind us of the Maccabean struggle for religious and national freedom. Rabbinic tradition relates that we light the candles for eight days to remind us of the small pitcher of oil found at the Temple during Dr. Rachel Dulin the renovation after the war against Greece. Accordingly, there was enough oil to light the Temple’s menorah for one day, but it lasted eight days (Shab. 21:71). The Book of Maccabees, however, relates a different rationale for the eight-day celebration. The People of Israel celebrated a belated Succot, a holiday they could not celebrate on time because the Temple was defiled (Macc.10). To this day, we celebrate the Holiday of Lights, joylessly reciting the blessing over ner shel Hanukkah. Why ner? What does the word mean? Ner is derived from the noun nur, meaning ‘fire,’ which appears 17 times in the Book of Daniel. The word menorah, ‘candelabra,’ is also derived from this noun. Interestingly, the meaning of the word ner has changed through the years. In biblical times, ner had two meanings. First, ner was the name for the container or the material which was used to light an area. In these meanings, it appears 32 times in the Text (Lev 24:2 Jer.25:10 et al). Secondly, because it was a source for light, ner also meant ‘light’ and was used as a
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metaphor for success and salvation. As such it appears nine times in the Text (Prv 6:23; Job 21:17; II Sam 22:29 et al). In modern Hebrew, ner means ‘candle’(pl. ney-rot). However, with the influence of biblical and post-biblical Hebrew, many phrases and idioms developed with ner at the center. For example, based on II Sam 21:17, ner Israel, literally ‘candle or lamp of Israel,’ is an epithet to honor a teacher or a leader who had a great impact on the society politically or educationally. Ner neshamah, ‘a soul candle,’ based on Prov 20:27, is the candle lit to remember someone who has died. Ner Tamid, ‘an eternal light,’ based on Ex 27:20, is a lamp we place in the synagogue in front of the ark. And, of course, we cannot forget Ney-rot Shabbat, the candles we light to honor the Sabbath. The idiomatic expression le-ha-pes be-neyrot, literally ‘to search with candles,’ based on Zeph 1:12, implies searching diligently for something. And we will end with the Rabbinic idiom ke-a-dam ha-mad-lik ner mi-ner, literally ‘like a person who lights one candle from another candle,’ based on Bamidbar Raba 13, where it describes a person who helps another altruistically, where both the giver and receiver benefit from the act. So, as Hanukkah approaches and we are about to light ner shel Hanukkah, let us hope that we will be able to light ner mi-ner and thus teach others the blessings of freedom and tolerance. Chag Hanukkah Same-ach to all. Dr. Rachel Zohar Dulin is a professor of biblical literature at Spertus College in Chicago, and a retired adjunct professor of Hebrew and Bible at New College in Sarasota.
s”xc
The Grand
CHanukah Klezmer Festival SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2019 4:30 - 6:30 P.M. At The Gazebo in Centennial Park 200 W. Venice Ave - Downtown Venice
Live Concert with Boris & Natasha from the Freilach Klezmer Band First Time in Venice! A Giant Menorah made out of Lego • Special Live Appearance by Judah the Maccabee & Local Dignitaries • Lighting of a 12 ft. Giant Menorah • Performance by the Chabad Hebrew School students! • Exciting array of Chanukah activities for children! • Latkes, Kugel, Stuffed Cabbage and Matzah Ball Chicken Soup will be available for sale! • Grand Raffle!
more infoofor to RSVP, call 941-493-2770 or visit: chabadofvenice.com/klezmer The For event is free charge (pre-purchase food online and skip the lines!) The event is co-sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
JOIN US FOR MORE MENORAH LIGHTING FESTIVITIES with MUSIC & FOOD • ENGLEWOOD on Sunday, Dec 22 at 5:00 pm 395 W. Dearborn St • NORTH PORT on Thursday, Dec 26 at 5:00 pm at the Warm Mineral Springs
• $5 EVENT SPONSORS HOST SPONSORS
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December 2019
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ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD
BRIEFS
The Perlman Music Program Sarasota Winter Residency
OF EVENTS 2019-2020
Most events are free and take place in a heated outdoor performance tent at USF Sarasota-Manatee, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, unless otherwise noted. Saturday, December 21
7:00 PM
Sunday, December 22
- NO PUBLIC EVENTS -
Monday, December 23
7:00 PM
Student Recital
Tuesday, December 24
5:00 PM
Student Recital
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Thursday, December 26
5:00 PM 7:00 PM
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Friday, December 27
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5:00 PM 7:00 PM
Chorus Rehearsal Super Strings & Orch ($10*)
Sunday, December 29
3:30 PM 4:30 PM 7:00 PM
Chorus Rehearsal Orchestra Rehearsal Student Recital
Monday, December 30
5:00 PM 7:00 PM
Chorus Rehearsal Orchestra Rehearsal
Tuesday, December 31
11:00 AM 5:00 PM 6:30 PM
Viola Master Class Orchestra Rehearsal Chorus Rehearsal
Wednesday, January 1
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Chamber Recital Church of the Palms ($10*)
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Cello Master Class Orchestra Rehearsal Chorus Rehearsal Student Recital
Saturday, January 4
5:00 PM
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Student Recital
* Offered free for Donors ($625+) and Members ($85+) with advance RSVP.
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FREE ticket distribution December 4 & 5 - USF Sarasota-Manatee Rotunda December 6 - Manatee Community Foundation December 7 - Violin Shop - Downtown Sarasota December 8 - The Market at Lakewood Ranch December 9 - The Exchange
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LAH L I H KE
A “QUANTUM LEAP” IN EGYPT-ISRAEL RELATIONS
After popular protests against Egyptian President Sisi recently, it was Israel that stood up for Cairo when criticism of the Egyptian government began to circulate in Western capitals, according to two Western diplomats. One said that for Israel, “supporting Egypt is extremely important because it is fighting terrorism, developing its economic sector, and is staunchly fighting against irregular migration.” According to government officials, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has frequent phone calls with the Egyptian president and they meet at least twice a year. The New York Times revealed in 2018 that Israel has been carrying out airstrikes against militants in Sinai for years in coordination with the Egyptian government. (Mada Masr - Egypt)
YOSSI COHEN: THE MOSSAD SPY CHIEF WHO STOLE IRAN’S SECRET NUCLEAR ARCHIVES
In March 2018, Mossad Director Yossi Cohen, 58, updated then-CIA Director Mike Pompeo on what the Mossad had found inside Iran’s secret nuclear archives that it had stolen from the heart of Tehran in January 2018. Sources close to Cohen told The Jerusalem Post that the information the Mossad seized is “still being used right now” to glean high-quality and valuable intelligence. A map of nuclear sites captured in the operation has yet to be made public. These revelations “even go beyond Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s revelation of the Abadeh nuclear site.” Dozens of agents were involved in surveillance missions and the heist
itself. Neutralizing any electronic surveillance that could expose them, they spent six hours and 29 minutes nabbing Iran’s secret nuclear files, which were kept in 32 safes. They used special torches to slice into these safes. They loaded the vast files onto trucks and used Iranian smugglers to get across the border. Cohen’s view is that relations with Sunni countries in the Gulf are “not as much about personal trust, but about overlapping national interests” – especially when it comes to Iran. For example, while Cohen would be against sharing sensitive Israeli technologies with the Saudis to combat the drone threat from Iran, he would seek to help states in the Gulf combat Iran together in other ways. Regarding the Palestinians, sources close to Cohen indicate that he does not believe anything will move on the peace process until PA President Mahmoud Abbas leaves office. (Yonah Jeremy Bob, Jerusalem Post)
EGYPT AGREES TO BUY MORE ISRAELI NATURAL GAS
The companies developing Israel’s largest natural gas fields agreed to increase the supply to Egypt by 35%, amending a 2018 contract, according to a Tel Aviv Stock Exchange filing on Wednesday, October 2. The Israeli gas will start flowing to Egypt at the beginning of 2020, reaching full capacity by 2022. Domestic demand in Egypt for natural gas will rise about 30% over the next two decades, causing a supply shortage within five years, according to Wood Mackenzie, a UK-based energy research firm. (Mirette Magdy and Yaacov Benmeleh, Bloomberg) continued on next page
REFUAH SH LE MA
SURVIVOR TRIBE SRQ FOR YOUNG ADULTS Meet Ethan Zohn, who will share stories on: • Winning Survivor: Africa • Surviving his teenage years • Connecting to Judaism and Israel Ethan will also lead a Survivor game challenge. Stay for dinner afterwards and then attend Ethan’s Community Presentation for free!
February 9
5:00 p.m.
Cost
$
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FOR THE COMMUNITY Hear Ethan speak about his journey of survival through: • Navigating his connection to Judaism and Israel • Crushing cancer, twice • Moving from “Sole Survivor” to humanitarian
February 9
7:00 p.m.
Cost
$
18pp
TIK K U N OLA M
An Evening with
ETHAN ZOHN Winner of Hit Reality TV Show, Survivor: Africa
Sunday, February 9
ABOUT ETHAN ETHAN ZOHN is a former professional soccer player, cancer survivor, winner of the hit reality television show Survivor: Africa and co-founder of Grassroot Soccer. As demonstrated by his charitable work, volunteerism, and community involvement, Ethan believes that a better and healthier world can be achieved through education, advocacy and inspiration.
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December 2019
COMMENTARY
Lexapro and Judaism By Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz, Community Chaplain
D
uring the last 25 years, rates surof depression in the U.S. have they dramatically increased. Forbing weretunately, for the majority of those sufecialfering from it who possess access to Theytreatment, advances in medications andhave proven to be quite effective. What genetic disposicross tion together with the myriad stresswith es and anxieties ot as of our age have bout taken away, modspeern medicine, to exa great degree, ainst has been able to ogies rone Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz return. Decades ago, Franz Alexander, a help etherleading psychoanalyst, noted, “A mark of mental health is the ability to repress ourc-our knowledge of the world’s cruelty, doesto be able to live in peace though surn therounded on all sides by horror and Mah-violent death…. It is ironic that if a Jer-depressed patient walks into my office and says that the world is so grim that he cannot face it, I am to treat him as a sick person. Actually, the patient L is quite right. He sees the truth only too clearly. But he is ‘sick’ because he ael’shas lost certain basic defenses; he no o in-longer has the normal illusions which 35%,keep us sane.” Antidepressants act to help restore ding these normal illusions. But is it healthy g on or even responsible to alter percepng totions of reality? Is the individual who ach-finds his or her psychological outlook positively transformed by increases in forsynthetically-raised serotonin levels overreally the same person? Is he or she pplytruly made better or just appears to be ng toso by means of a medically manipulatergyed consciousness? Though these quesandtions continue to be debated, it can’t be denied that antidepressants have saved pagemany lives. A common criticism of religions is that they are illusions. The assertion is made that the waning of traditional belief over the last century has exposed these illusions and, therefore, the faith claims associated with them should no longer be considered authoritative. Whether regarded as an illusion or not, in many minds religion is failing due to an inability to deal with contemporary existential turmoil. In other words, its spiritual relevancy has been superseded by advances in biochemistry. But it’s not apposite to judge religion on the same terms as a medical treatment, regarding it as a kind of
BRIEFS continued from previous page
NORMALIZATION: 166,000 PALESTINIANS WORK WITH ISRAELIS EVERY DAY
“Normalization” has been adopted as a term of abuse by the Palestinian leadership to stigmatize any form of joint Palestinian-Israeli activity. The elephant in this room is that every day, 130,000 Palestinians cross into Israel from the West Bank to work for some 8,100 employers. Their employment is an important part of the West Bank economy. Palestinians working in Israel bring home $1.4 billion. Their average salary is two and a half times the average salary in the Palestinian autonomous areas. In addition, 36,000 Palestinians are employed in Israeli firms in the West Bank, many earning up to three times the average Palestinian wage. Israel has established several industrial zones
antidepressant manqué. A medication like Lexapro enables people to emerge from the shadows of despair to recapture personal vitality and greater selftrust. Religion, too, is concerned with lifting spirits but in a different way. It provides the context in which this vitality and trust are imbued with ultimate purpose. Antidepressants seek to right imbalances in the brain while religion seeks to right imbalances in the world. They allow men and women to once again drink from the wells of a greater semblance of personal wholeness. Religion directs where these restorative waters need to be brought to revive attenuated moral vision. Judaism is not an illusion. Certainly, its more than 2,500-year historical record testifies to this. So, too, it is focused on sanctifying daily living, not the preoccupation with heavenly reward. Judaism is real because its God is vested in human learning, creativity and justice, not unquestioned adherence. Nonetheless, many Jews operate under the impression that because Judaism is a religion it must be illusionary. Judaism for them is an unbelievable fable, not a tenable framework for authentic spiritual expression. Changing this perception has proven to be quite a challenge. When something’s scope has been narrowed, placed tightly in a box and dismissed as specious, prompting people to subsequently reopen it and view what’s inside from new perspectives is rather formidable. Therefore, when we gather around our tables to kindle the Hanukkah menorah, let it not be a perfunctory experience. We shouldn’t engage in this rite to revere only what the luminous candles meant to previous generations, but what they point to and can still inspire today. Thankfully, antidepressants can bring people out of darkness. But these medications are not an end in themselves. The aim of fulfilling sacred values through a framework open to myriad redemptive possibility remains the same as it has for millennia. That, too, certainly acts to keep us in the light. Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz serves as a Community Chaplain and Director of JFCS’s Jewish Healing Program, a partnership between The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and JFCS of the Suncoast.
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there, comprising around 1,000 businesses. This ongoing demonstration of Palestinian-Israeli joint activity on a massive scale is rarely referred to by the anti-normalization activists. (Neville Teller, Jerusalem Report)
THE TEMPLE MOUNT’S TREASURE TROVE
In recent years, archaeologists have excavated 60 meters (200 feet) of the foundations of the Western Wall in Jerusalem, yielding an endless treasure trove. Dr. Eli Shukron and Prof. Ronny Reich have determined that, in contrast to popular belief, the Western Wall was not built by King Herod but by Agrippas I, Herod’s grandson. (Nadav Shragai, Israel Hayom)
Get to know Israel and her people! Visit jfedsrq.org/israel.
20 – 21 DECEMBER 2019 | VAN WEZEL 941.359.0099 | SarasotaBallet.org
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December 2019
COMMENTARY
What’s your “why”?
By Dr. Sol Lizerbram, President, Jewish National Fund-USA
T
here has never been a more exciting time to support the land and people of Israel, and you don’t need a title or position to leave a lasting impact. As I look back on my more than 35 years of involvement with Jewish National Fund-USA (JNF-USA), I continually ask myself “why?” Why do I support the land and people of Israel? Why do I support my Jewish community? Every time I reflect on my “why,” I find even more reasons as to why I have been so deeply involved with JNF-USA for so long. Over the past couple of years, I’ve reflected on what it means to me to be president of this amazing organization. Now, more than ever, I believe it boils down to the fact that I’ve been given the extraordinary opportunity to work with our incredible partners, affiliates, lay leaders and professional staff, both in Florida and across the U.S., who, as American Jews, care deeply about Israel. In reflecting on my “why,” I went back in history and identified two individuals whose names are not well known, yet, these are people like you and me, whose “why” was abundantly clear. They stood in front of others years ago and asked strangers and friends to believe, to be a part of, and to join them and their dream. One of those individuals was Dr. Israel Goldstein. He died before the creation of the State of Israel. Dr. Goldstein was president of JNF-USA from 1934-1943. In 1936, Israel Goldstein led the JNFUSA campaign and raised $5.7 million. At the time, the Jewish community was scattered throughout the U.S. and Dr. Goldstein had to obtain every dollar in person or via the mail system. There was no AMEX, Venmo or PayPal. This
was JNF-USA’s 35th anniversary, and most remarkably, this was before the declaration of the establishment of the State of Israel. Back in 1936, the Jewish population in the U.S. was approximately 1.2 million (today, we are 7.5 million). Despite the community’s small size, they raised money through Blue Boxes and stamps, and by asking people to plant trees in Palestine! Although there was a tremendous downturn in the economy during that time, our people back then knew their “why,” and so there was no discussion or negotiation. They simply went out and did what was necessary to raise the funds needed for pre-state Israel. The other unsung hero from JNFUSA’s past is Irma Levy Lindheim. Irma was a colorful, wealthy American Zionist, fundraiser and educator. She was born in New York City on December 9, 1886, to a deeply assimilated Jewish German family, with roots dating back several generations in the American south. Irma did not discover her Zionism and her “why” until 1917. Irma stuttered terribly as a child and felt inadequate in her ability to tell a story or to ask people to join her in her endeavors. She was inspired by the Balfour Declaration of 1917 and knew her time had come – she had to do something. She organized the first women’s campaign for JNF-USA. She started training volunteers to fundraise and launched an extensive speaking tour throughout the United States. She then became the third national president of Hadassah. Against the odds, she overcame her fear of speaking and became a voice for the land and people of Israel. Now, why am I telling you about these people?
I highlight Dr. Goldstein’s and Irma’s stories because they are synonymous with the thousands of local heroes who support organizations like JNF-USA. They were people who stood up and took action. They are you and me. In our community, we have many Dr. Goldsteins and Irmas who each and every day are discovering their “why”. Through my travels, I have the opportunity to meet many of our partners who are ensuring that JNF-USA meets its objectives as guided by our One Billion Dollar Roadmap for the Next Decade. Despite the challenges our community faces, I am convinced that our People’s voice is stronger than ever and our story more powerful. The Jewish People have a history of achieving the unachievable – and it’s up to each and every one of us to not only tell our story, but to be proud of it. Recently, I encouraged our team to refer to our donors as partners. Whether you give $18 or $18 million, you are a partner in building the land of Israel and positively affecting the lives of every Israeli, every day. Brick by brick, tree by tree, lake by lake, we are making our mark on the land and people of Israel. Every Jewish community knows that it is only as strong as its next generation. The same is true for Jewish organizations. Connecting our young people from the U.S. to the land and people of Israel is a priority of JNF-USA, and we have a saying: “from birth to the boardroom.” JNF-USA supports programming for school teachers; runs the
Alexander Muss High School in Israel, an American semester abroad program that prepares students for applying to college and thriving academically once they graduate; facilitates volunteer programs in Israel for college students; and maintains our connection to postcollege students through JNFuture, our young professionals division for 22- to 40-year-olds. As long as we maintain our connection with our young people, they will maintain their connection with the land and people of Israel. Today, we are building a legacy for our children, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren and the children yet unborn. We are providing them with the platform and pathways for them to discover their own “whys.” As you read this, the person sitting opposite you or in the next room might just be the next Irma or Dr. Goldstein. While they may not be written about for another 100 years, make no mistake. Their legacy, their story and their “why” will leave a lasting impact. Dr. Sol Lizerbram is President of Jewish National Fund-USA. Sol has been involved with JNF-USA for over 35 years. Professionally, Sol has been a pioneer of healthcare technology in the U.S. Sol was Chairman and co-founder of HealthFusion® Inc., an internetbased electronic medical record and healthcare transaction company. More recently, he is the Executive Chairman and co-founder of ForeSee Medical, Inc., a medical software company using Artificial Intelligence to assist physicians and medical organizations with their data management needs.
Opinions printed in The Jewish News of Sarasota-Manatee do not necessarily reflect those of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, its Board of Directors or staff.
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December 2019
COMMENTARY
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A Yom Kippur miracle By Rabbi Howard A. Simon
I
rael, t was Yom Kippur, the holiest day the head of the Jewish community, Max gram of the Jewish year. Seventy to 80 Privorozky, stated, “The assailant shot g to Jews living in Halle, Germany, several times at the door and also threw oncehad assembled at their synagogue and several Molotov cocktails, firecrackers nteerwere deeply engrossed in prayer on and grenades to force his way in, but ents;this special day. Suddenly, the door remained closed post-the service was interrupted and locked. God protected , ourby shots fired at the door us.” It was, indeed, a Yom 2- toof the synagogue. Fire Kippur miracle, for had ntainbombs were thrown at the the assailant entered the ople,door, followed by Molotov synagogue carrying his ctioncocktails. The perpetrator two revolvers, many of of these deeds, Stephen the members would have gacyBalliet, 27 years of age, been killed or seriously reat-then began shouting, “The wounded. t un-root of all problems are This is the third reh thethe Jews.” He continued Rabbi Howard A. Simon cent attack on a Jewish dis-screaming that there never was a Holohouse of worship. It follows the deathcaust, that it is all a lie. dealing loss in Pittsburgh and the attting His ongoing attempt to breach the tack in Poway, California. Hatred, mightsynagogue failed as the door would anti-Semitism and the desire to destroy tein.not give way. The right-wing extremist all Jews prompted each attack and left boutwas infuriated. Frustrated by his failJews throughout the world wondering mis-ure to enter the synagogue, he turned if it will ever end. Will hatred of our theirand shot a 40-year-old German woman people, our faith and the land of Israel walking past the place of worship, killever cease, or is this the new reality for Jew-ing her. He then moved to a nearby kethe Jewish world? beenbab shop, shot and killed a young man, According to Germany’s Interior r 35only 20 years of age. This was followed Minister, 1,799 anti-Semitic offenses en aby the wounding of two other people. were recorded in Germany in 2018, n the Following the Yom Kippur service, up nearly 20 percent over the previous nder rnetand More man ical, y usphywith The COMMUNITY DIRECTORY on The Federation website
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year. Far-right extremists have committed 10,105 violent crimes in the past decade as well as 83 murders since 1990. To make matters worse, far-right extremists have made plans to round up political opponents, take them to an abandoned quarry and shoot them. They expect to get away with this act because there are a number of German soldiers and German police officers in their ranks, thus guaranteeing no one would be prosecuted for these horrendous acts. Fortunately, their deathdealing plan has not been enacted, but the threat remains. The synagogue in Halle remains
strong and sturdy. The members of the congregation completed their prayers, wished each other a happy and healthy new year, and returned home. Breaking the fast had so much meaning for one and all. They were able to voice their prayers on the holiest day of the Jewish year. The door remained invincible, but we have to wonder, will this always be the case? Rabbi Howard A. Simon is the founding chair of the Robert and Esther Heller Community Relations Committee, formerly known as the Heller IAI.
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Temple Beth Sholom Sarasota's Conservative Synagogue "Where community is family and egalitarian Conservative Judaism thrives in Sarasota through prayer, learning, and community service.”
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December 2019
COMMENTARY
Show up for Shabbat From the Bimah Rabbi Stephen L. Sniderman Temple Beth Israel
S
unday, October 27 was the oneyear mark of the murderous attack at the Tree of Life building in Pittsburgh. I was approached by a member of Tree of Life who lives on Longboat Key to see if our congregation could host a special event. The three congregations in Pittsburgh that were housed in the Tree of Life building were planning a special commemoration and memorial that was going to be live-streamed. I was asked if we could host a community live-streaming. It would have been easy to livestream on our computers at home. Our Pittsburghers wanted community, and I was more than willing to encourage the members of Temple Beth Israel to be part of that community for support. We live in a world of new technology. Those of us who couldn’t be in
Secular Humanistic Judaism
Pittsburgh could do the next best thing. A strong sense of this new virtual community that we created hit home when the congregation in Pittsburgh was asked to rise for the El Male Rachamim. At that moment, those of us on Longboat Key rose automatically with those in Pittsburgh. All of us were encouraged to Pause with Pittsburgh. We got messages that read #ShowUpForShabbat. We should show up for Shabbat anyway, but right now this can be an act of defiance, a way of telling the world and ourselves that the murders in Pittsburgh will not keep us away from our synagogues. Personal connections: For 11 years I was the rabbi in Sharon, Pennsylvania, northwest of Pittsburgh, and for 13 years in Cumberland, Maryland, a little farther away to the southeast. My wife grew up in Aliquippa near the Pittsburgh airport. When we visit family, if it is over Shabbat, we go to a Shabbat morning service. We easily could have been at Tree of Life that horrible day a year ago. The victims were those regulars who always go to the Shabbat morning service and get there early. Others will step up and take their place. Jews throughout the world should also step up and strengthen our synagogues.
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reflection. Tzedaka usually signifies charity, but a deeper meaning suggests striving to be our human best. Tikkun By H olam, improving the world, focuses n our attention on our human power to t shape the future. This is an example of b how we recast our basic Judaism into to th this modern form of Judaism, now recgove ognized throughout the world. There are now ordained Human-parti Dr. Margo Moore, President, ist Rabbis, and Humanist Bar and Batrece by B Cong. for Humanistic Judaism Mitzvahs. s children, we have all at some In 1963, Rabbi Sherwin Wine point tried walking around created a new Jewish movement, Huwith eyes shut, even if just manistic Judaism. In 1969, his fledgfor a minute, to see what it feels like. ling congregation, The Birmingham Immediately, hearing becomes keen, Temple in Michigan, along with two the texture of the rug tells us we have other congregations, united under the reached the bedroom. Tiny air shifts umbrella of The Society for Humanwarn us of looming furniture. It’s the istic Judaism (SHJ). Today, there are same world, but from a novel perspec28 individual Humanistic Jewish conH tive, and our previously relaxed senses gregations in the U.S. (and more interare now on high alert. nationally), including a new temple inmitte This is a bit analogous to what hapthe Greater Tampa area. Our temple,Righ pens when someone, raised in a tradithe Congregation for Humanistic Juda-with S tional family, decides to seek a spiritual ism of Sarasota, had the sweet pleasure Kne home in a Humanistic Jewish congreof hosting seven of their members at gation. The first thing that happens is our High Holiday services. It was likeMin an extraordinary heightening of the meeting wonderful relatives you didn’tNeg ing h sense of being Jewish, not against or in know you had! opposition, to traditional Judaism, but Not every Humanistic Jewish con-toge by an affirmation of the primary values gregation has the luxury of having itsnece N of rational thinking and scientific ideas own rabbi. Most, like ours, are lay-led. fusin in our present-day world. We write our own services, celebrate The “rules,” once so automatic, our Jewish heritage though observ-gave must be rewritten. The value of teshuing Jewish holidays and commemora-tion va, repentance, reminds us to reconnect tions and, of course, eat a lot of Jewishthen gove and rededicate ourselves to our ideals. food! midTefilla means prayer, but also selfI mem sign gove may wan ceed THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. cally THE POWER OF COMMUNITY. W
From the Bimah
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Voices of the
HOLOCAUST
Holocaust, Genocide and Tolerance Education
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HANUKKAH
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Wishing you peace love, and joy this Hanukkah season.
1,912 Sarasota-Manatee students learned about the Holocaust from survivors last year
#NEVERFORGET
Listening to your heart-wrenching story, I started to tear up. Your story of survival moved me and I will remember you for the rest of my life. –North Port high School StudeNt
History is not just about events, it is about human lives. Learn what “Never Forget” means, before it is too late. Invite a Holocaust survivor to your school, synagogue or library.
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December 2019
COMMENTARY
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m Political, historical and religious differences
delay formation of government By Harold M. Halpern
I
n my November column, I wrote that the Israel election of September did not produce a clear road to the establishment of the next Israeli government. The Right coalition of parties led by Benjamin Netanyahu received 55 seats, the Center-Left led by Benny Gantz had 44 seats, the Arab coalition had 13 seats (of which, 10 will vote for a Gantz government, but not be a part of it), and Yisrael Beiteinu, led by Avigdor Liberman had Harold Halpern eight seats committed to a unity government with the Right, without the religious parties and with the Center-Left. Sixty-one votes of the 120 member Knesset are necessary to select a Prime Minister and to form a government. Negotiations as of the date of this writing have been unsuccessful in cobbling together the different factions to get the necessary 61 or more votes. Netanyahu, blaming Gantz for refusing to make an agreement, officially gave up his effort to negotiate a coalition on October 21. President Rivlin then gave Gantz his chance to form a government within 28 days ending in mid-November. If Gantz doesn’t succeed, any member of Knesset getting 61 member signatures within 21 days may form a government. Ultimately, negotiations may succeed since the public does not want a third election. If no one succeeds, a third election will automatically take place. Why the delay? Deals are usually
made at the last moment. Until then no one wants to blink and play it close to the vest. In addition, the Attorney General soon will decide whether Netanyahu will be indicted. Center-Left believes that will enhance its bargaining power and enable agreement for Gantz to be Prime Minister for at least two years. Netanyahu hopes that the pending bribery charges will be reduced to a less serious offense, improving his chances for an agreement to be designated as Prime Minister for the first two years. The many political parties reflect differences in Israel society about the future of the West Bank, the role of religion in the daily life of Israelis, and the demands and needs of Israeli Arabs. The multiplicity of issues makes it difficult and time consuming to put coalitions together. The 55 seats of the Right coalition of Netanyahu is made up of Likud, ultra-Religious parties and the New Right party led by nationalist secularists Ayelet Shaked and Naftali Bennett. New Right wants to reclaim the historical national home of the Jewish people by incorporating the entire West Bank into Israel. The New Right pushed for annexation in the last session of the Knesset. The Right is for continuation of the status quo on religious issues. The ultra-Religious Right view the West Bank as part of God’s Promised Land. So they too want this land to be incorporated into Israel proper. To fulfill their claims, both the New Right and the Religious parties oppose a Palestinian State. The Center-Left coalition of 44 seats wants strong Israeli security in
the West Bank, an undivided Jerusalem, ultimate inclusion of the Etzion Bloc (settlements near Jerusalem) into Israel, but at some time, a peace agreement with Palestinians establishing two states in the Promised Land. The Center-Left proposes liberalization of the Orthodox Shabbat controls and adoption of civil marriage laws. While the eight seats of Liberman’s party support the nationalist claims to the West Bank, they oppose the Religious parties’ influence in the daily lives of Israelis and want to eliminate exemption from military service for Orthodox students. Many, if not most, Israelis agree with Liberman’ s objections to the Orthodox monopoly and control of marriage, Shabbat restrictions on public transport, and closure of entertainment and commercial establishments as well as the exemption given to Orthodox students from military service. The Orthodox control of these matters is a source of great friction in Israeli society. Finally, Arab Israelis are 20% of Israel’s population. They won 13 seats in the election. They feel ignored by the government and especially need help in their communities in crime enforcement and social services. They oppose any annexation of the West Bank, demand equality and respect as Israeli citizens, and want a greater effort for a two-state solution. If a unity coalition embracing the Right, Center-Left and Liberman’s Yisrael Beiteinu is to govern, an understanding must be reached on how to deal with the conflicting position on the issues.
The optimum unity coalition agreement would resolve as many differences as possible and postpone matters of principle pending public debate and consensus. At the minimum, it should provide for the appointment of a Prime Minister and a government, a budget, and an agreed-to military plan to deal with Iranian actions, Hamas threats in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon and terrorists in the West Bank. It should provide for some amelioration of religious strictures on daily life, and compromise on the exemption from Orthodox military service. At the same time, the agreement should help Israeli Arabs alleviate crime in their communities and provide for their social service needs. Such an agreement might hold the government together without a further election for a decent period of time. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement with at least minimum compromise, Israel will be confronted with a third election, if not immediately then in a very short time. Despite the political confusion and chaos, Israel’s elections are democracy at work. To paraphrase Winston Churchill, democracies are messy but everything else is worse. Harold M. Halpern, a retired attorney living in Lakewood Ranch for the past 12 years, is a board member of the American Association of Lawyers and Justices as well as a board member of the Sarasota Chapter of the American Jewish Committee. For further analysis of Israel issues, you may read his column in the Sarasota-Herald Tribune.
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December 2019
FOCUS ON YOUTH
Sukkot and STEM learning collide at Community Day School
Education Corner
T
By Melissa Werbow
he STEM classroom at Community Day School was recently filled with the buzz of students talking excitedly, mixed with shouts of triumph and groans of despair. There was a pulse of excitement in the air and multiple students were flitting around the room. This untraditional scene wasn’t an out-of-control classroom but rather a group of middle school students participating in our “Sukkot Breakout.” This type of programming builds on the recent trend of Escape Rooms.
An Escape Room is an interactive physical and intellectual game. A group of players is (willingly) locked in a room with a theme and a guiding story, and the participants have to solve a series of puzzles and riddles in order to escape. There is a time limit (usually 60 minutes) to escape. Educators around the country have come to realize how educational escape-room programming teaches students to work as a team, reinforces content, sharpens problem-solving skills and pushes them to do higherorder thinking. At Community Day School, it also offers a memorable way to expose our students to Jewish holidays, traditions and history. “In the educational industry, the big focus in 21st century learning is the four Cs – creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking,” says Ann Brucker, game developer and community manager with Breakout EDU. “They are actually using all of those right now.” To adapt the immersive world created in an Escape Room for classroom use, most teachers make their programs
breakout style. Rather than trying to escape out of a room, students are trying to break into a box or boxes. Twentyfirst century skills are reinforced when students have to assess a situation to determine which action to take next or how to apply the information they’ve learned in class to a new situation. In the adult world, we are rarely given a worksheet, with blanks to fill in, that require skills from a single subject area. We are much more likely to encounter complex thorny issues that we must untangle ourselves from by using skills across the disciplinary spectrum. Community Day students were given the challenge to unlock four boxes around the room to gather the four elements they needed to build a sukkah: roof branches, walls, a table and chairs, and decorations. Each lockbox required a different kind of code to unlock it, such as a directional lock, a word lock, a three-number code and a four-number code. Students needed to uncover and solve puzzles around the room that would help them decipher the codes. Tasks included every-
Temple Sinai Religious School’s dynamic new school year By Gail Glickman
T
emple Sinai’s Religious School has a tradition of providing an amazing program and the goal is to make it even better. Twelve new students were called to the bimah at Temple Sinai’s Erev Shabbat Consecration Service on October 18. The students were blessed and presented with a miniature Torah, a Certificate of Consecration, and a
scholarship to their first year at Camp Coleman. Students in grades K-2 sparkled as they participated in the service with songs and prayers. Bethany Leinweber, Temple Sinai’s Director of Youth Education, is excited to report that the religious school is working closely with the youth groups, led by Youth Group Advisor Deb Bryan, to make the 2019-
READ—SING—DANCE—GATHER—GROW
2020 school year another outstanding one for the students. Temple Sinai’s new intern program is an exciting way to develop youth leaders in our synagogue and give them the opportunity to gain skills that will carry through to all of their endeavors as they continue to mature into young Jewish adults. Each intern will take on a project or event that will be temple-wide, communitywide or just for our temple youth group. Temple Sinai’s Animal Hour with Rabbi Samantha Kahn and Satchel’s
thing from tracing the journey of the Israelites in the desert, using the Mishna, to sorting pictures of kosher and non-kosher sukkot. “The concept of meaningful gamification is not to provide external rewards, but rather to help participants find a deeper connection to the underlying topic,” says Scott Nicholson, a professor of game design and development at Wilfrid Laurier University in Ontario, Canada. At Community Day, we are always seeking new and fun ways to add a Jewish touch to the multicultural celebrations taking place in the wider community as well as looking for creative ways to showcase Jewish holidays in a way that is meaningful to students of all faiths. By helping students to explore Sukkot through a fun, experiential game, we enable all students – Jewish as well as those of other faiths – to connect with the holiday. Melissa Werbow is the Director of Jewish Learning at Hershorin Schiff Community Day School.
holid to re of ou Holi Last Resort on October 27 was a won-in th derful opportunity for youngsters toJewi bring their pets to a veterinary clinic(rejo and a Blessing Booth where Rabbithe h Kahn offered blessings for all the ani-the T mals in our lives. A dog and cat adop-of th tion fair in partnership with Satchel’slev, Last Resort was available. Satchel’s I Last Resort is a no-kill animal shelter/tion, sanctuary for the rescue, rehab and re-ginn home of dogs and cats. Food and drinkeduc for humans and animals alike wereIt is enjoyed by students, parents and theirrah, adorable pets. Tora agai
Temple Sinai’s Animal Hour with Satchel’s Last Resort
PJ Library® has partnered with The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee to provide families raising Jewish children with the gift of free, high-quality children’s books, music, and resources that foster deeper engagement with Jewish life in our community.
Join one of our PJ programs below to start enhancing your family’s Jewish journey.
Children Ages 6 mo. thru 8 years
Temple Sinai’s Consecration under a tallit
Sign-up at
JFEDSRQ.org/PJ
Children Ages 8 thru 12 years
Sign-up at
pjourway.org
For more information, contact Andrea Eiffert aeiffert@jfedsrq.org 941.552.6308 PJ Library Sarasota-Manatee is generously funded in part by Edie and David Chaifetz.
A
Temple Sinai’s Consecration Service with Grades K-2 led by Rabbi Samantha Kahn and Chazzan Cliff Abramson
December 2019
FOCUS ON YOUTH
37A
Community Day School celebrates “Challah-ween”
F
orget about ghouls, ghosts and goblins. At Hershorin Schiff Community Day School, carbs dominated the day as the school added a Jewish twist to the Halloween season with its fourth annual Challah-ween Bake-Off Festival. Bakers put their best challah forward to be blind tastetested by a panel of celebrity and student judges, with a “Golden Challah” trophy and bragging rights to the winner. The judges included Jewish community leaders, school board members and supporters, plus enthusiastic student tasters. Challah up for judging was baked by local Jewish organizations, religious leaders, school families, Publix, BJ’s Wholesale Club and Fresh Market. The festival also included activities like challah braiding, a tie-dye station, and a reading center courtesy of PJ Library. First place went – for the second year in a row – to student Shai Mitza-
fon for her “Sesame Surprise Challah;” second place was awarded to Brenna Wilhm for the “Shuka-sa Surprise Challah;” and third place went to student Lev Werbow for his “Rainbow Surprise Challah.” The commercial winner was BJ’s. After the Challah-ween Bake-Off Festival ended, the students engaged in school-wide Panther Pride activities. “As a Jewish day school that is committed to pluralism, we are always seeking new and fun ways to add a Jewish touch to the multi-cultural celebrations taking place in the wider community,” said Community Day Head of School Dan Ceaser. “We enjoy the opportunity not only to educate our students about Jewish history and traditions, but also to help them better understand and appreciate the culture and celebrations of others. Everyone has come to look forward to Challahween each year!”
Pictured with school mascot Menschy are the winners of the Challah-ween Bake-Off: Benjamin Lalo (accepting the award on behalf of his mother, second-place winner Brenna Wilhm), first-place winner Shai Mitzafon and third-place winner Lev Werbow
Happy Hanukkah from Community Day School!
Temple Emanu-El’s Consecration Service
By Sabrina Silverberg, MARE, Director of Education
A
s we transition from the Days of Awe of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur into the festive holiday of Sukkot, we are commanded to rejoice. Z’man simchatenu (the time of our gladness) is another name for the Holiday of Booths. Sukkot culminates in the happiest and most meaningful Jewish holiday of all – Simchat Torah (rejoicing with the Torah). The Torah is the heart of Judaism. The last letter of the Torah is Lamed and the first letter of the Torah is Bet. Together they spell lev, or heart in Hebrew. It is traditional to hold Consecration, a day to commemorate the beginning of new students’ religious education, on or near Simchat Torah. It is a day when we rejoice in the Torah, finish reading the last words of the Torah, and begin reading it all over again. Just as reading the Torah never
ends, by welcoming new students into the fold of Judaism, we hope that our people will always endure. Temple Emanu-El held a beautiful Consecration Service on Sunday, October 20. We joyfully said Brucheem Habaim (welcome) to 17 new students and 11 new families. The Consecrants received certificates and their own little illustrated Torahs, highlighting the special meaning of this joyful occasion. They also received special words of welcome and blessings from Rabbis Brenner Glickman and Michael Shefrin and Director of Education Sabrina Silverberg. The program culminated in a festive cake-and-punch reception. Mazel tov to Temple Emanu-El Consecrants and families, and to all Consecrants beginning Jewish education everywhere!
Temple Emanu-El’s Consecration Class of 5780/2019, accompanied by their proud rabbis, teachers and madrichim (classroom aides) (photo by Rachel Marcus)
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The Jewish Federation offers assistance for all ages in Sarasota and Manatee Counties: Camp Grants, Travel Opportunities, Education Scholarships, Religious School Assistance and Financial Aid to At-Risk Populations. We also support programs: PJ Library, Senior Services and Jewish Healing, including a Community Chaplain.
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Serving children in preschool - 8th grade, Community Day School offers a rigorous, project-based academic program, in a diverse and vibrant learning environment rooted in Jewish values. Visit us and see what we’re all about! Email admissions@communityday.org or call (941) 552-2770 to schedule a tour.
Hershorin Schiff Community Day School 1050 S. Tuttle Ave. Sarasota | (941) 552-2770
www.CommunityDay.org
38A
December 2019
FOCUS ON YOUTH
ATTENTION TEENS!
BAT MITZVAH
Chana Steinmetz (pictured), daughter of Rabbi Chaim & Sara Steinmetz, November 29, Chabad of Sarasota Reina Spiegelman, daughter of Marcus Spiegelman & Lisa Buonarosa, December 7, Temple Emanu-El
ZAZIM
Jewish Teen Leadership Initiative
The Zazim Jewish Teen Leadership Initiative empowers Jewish teens to “STEP” into leadership roles by providing advanced leadership training through a series of professionally facilitated modules comprised of leading edge, science-based data.
ADVANCED LEADERSHIP TRAINING WORKSHOPS
Both half-day workshops are free and will be led by Uri Galimidi, from The Will to Change. Light refreshments will be served. LOCATION: Zell Room on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota
Sunday, December 8 12:30-4:30 p.m.
Sunday, December 15 12:30-4:30 p.m.
MODULES:
MODULES:
Communicate with Impact & Presence
Embrace Diversity
Self-Confidence and Courage
Build Productive Work Habits
Please register at
Sarasota BBYO happenings
This program is Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee By Jessica Zimmerman, Associate Regional Dir., North Florida Region
H
appy December from BBYO! In October, Sarasota BBYO hosted a Haunted House Decorating Party. Teens had a lot of fun creating unique houses and competing to impress the judges. It was a great event and we are grateful to The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee for providing us with a location to host Jessica Zimmerman it. On Sunday, December 8, Sarasota BBYO will enjoy a t-shirt decorating party. Email me at jesszimmerman@ bbyo.org to register or to inquire about
the location, which hasn’t been determined. If you are a Jewish teen in grades 8-12, you are eligible for BBYO membership in Sarasota-Bradenton. BBYO is a pluralistic youth movement. We welcome all Jews regardless of affiliation or temple membership. BBYO membership has a onetime fee and lasts through 12th grade graduation. With membership comes opportunities for chapter leadership, discounts to almost all local and regional programming, and the opportunity to participate in BBYO summer programming. To register for events, for more information on membership, or if you have questions about summer programming, please email me.
JFEDSRQ.org/Events
For more information or to apply, contact Andrea Eiffert: 941.552.6308 or aeiffert@jfedsrq.org.
Sarasota BBYO teens create haunted houses from edible ingredients
for
F AM I L Y E V E N T 2020 The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, in partnership with local philanthropists, helps Jewish children from Sarasota and Manatee counties attend not-for-profit camps.
Community Day School Presents
SMALL HANDS GIVE BACK
Even the youngest members of our community can make a big impact. Join us for an afternoon of crafts, stories and inter-generational fun in the butterfly garden. WHEN Monday, January 20 2:30 - 4:00 pm
WHERE COST Sarasota Garden Club This Event 1131 Boulevard of the Arts is FREE, but Sarasota space is limited.
Register at JFEDSRQ.org/PJ For more information, please contact Melissa Werbow at 941.552.2770 or mwerbow@communityday.org. SPONSORED BY
For more information, contact Andrea Eiffert at 941.552.6308 or aeiffert@jfedsrq.org. Application window January 31, 2020 APPLY AT closes JFEDSRQ.org/Camp
December 2019
LIFE CYCLE
39A
IN MEMORIAM
Martin Albaum, 91, of Sarasota, formerly of Brooklyn, NY, September 28 Norman Blum, 86, of Sarasota, formerly of Boston, MA, September 23 Scott E. Butler, of Sarasota, September 28 Ben Ami Chemerow, 93, of Sarasota, formerly of Kenosha, WI, September 30 Marc Cohen, 67, of Sarasota, October 25 Michael Z. Cohn, 76, of Sarasota, October 14 Barbara Grossman, 86, of Sarasota, formerly of Highlands, NC, September 28 Irwin Horowitz, 91, of Sarasota, formerly of Philadelphia, PA, September 30 Melvin Jacobson, 90, of Sarasota, formerly of Troy, NY, October 4 Arnold Jeffer, 69, of Sarasota, formerly of Brooklyn, NY, October 8 Dr. Fred Kagan, 98, of Sarasota, September 30 Richard Levin, 93, of Sarasota, formerly of Dayton, OH, September 24 Jack Mansbach, 84, of Sarasota, October 21 Robert Myers, 88, of Sarasota, formerly of New York, NY, October 13 Harriet Oxman, 92, of Sarasota, October 25 Elkan Ries, 92, of Sarasota, formerly of Boston, MA, October 7 Sy Sklar, 91, of Sarasota, formerly of Old Tappan, NJ, September 24 Seymour Wohlman, 94, of Sarasota, October 11 Harriet Ziegler, 86, of Sarasota, October 13
Celebrating
Jewish Lives
For three generations, families of all faiths have turned to Toale Brothers for support and guidance at the most difficult of times. As our liaison to the Jewish community, Rabbi Howard A. Simon provides guidance and outreach with a focus on keeping with the traditions and customs of Judaism.
Please submit your life cycle events (births, B’nai Mitzvah, anniversaries) to jewishnews@jfedsrq.org. Photos welcome; please e-mail as JPGs at 300dpi.
ToaleBrothers.com • 941.955.4171 Proudly serving Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice since 1912.
ANNIVERSARIES
50th Gordon & Ronna Baum Temple Emanu-El 50th Iris & Jay Leonard Temple Sinai 35th Michael Bernstein & Sarah Skebba Temple Emanu-El 30th Pam & Dr. Richard Brown Temple Emanu-El 30th Andrew & Karen Hertzfeld Temple Emanu-El 30th Barbara & Joseph Sander Temple Sinai 25th David & Donna Koffman Temple Emanu-El 20th Janet & Anthony Joseph Temple Sinai 20th Dr. Michael & Denise Shereff Temple Emanu-El 15th Dr. Elliott & Judy Sauertieg Temple Emanu-El
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40A
December 2019
Find your light. And share it with those who need it most. In the Chanukah story, a small bit of oil miraculously burns for eight nights. When you give to Federation, your impact lasts much longer. Just like the candles you add to the menorah, you can bring light, warmth and comfort to those who are struggling without them. Your gift to our Federation delivers relief and brightens the lives of thousands of people at home, in Israel and in more than 70 countries worldwide. Find your light. Federation will help it shine.
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Celebrating Jewish Life in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Israel and the World FEDERATION NEWS PUBLISHED BY
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December 2019 - Kislev/Tevet 5780
www.jfedsrq.org
Volume 49, Number 12
Jewish Happenings SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3
NCJW Gift Wrap
The Jewish Women’s Book Club
During the month of December, the National Council of Jewish Women will be gift wrapping at Barnes and Noble, 4010 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. The bookstore supplies all of the wrapping paper and is excited to work with NCJW again. Funds to support local community service projects are raised through donations for gifts that are wrapped. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Janet Alloy (941.355.3234 or janetalloy@yahoo. com) or Fredda Chalfin (941.251.9790 or freddach@aol.com).
Join the most popular Jewish Women’s book club in town at “Caffeine for the Soul.” Get your weekly social and spiritual boost over a roundtable discussion led by Chaya Rivka Schmerling. Delve into the book for this year: Simple Words by Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz. Enjoy coffee and homemade pastries. Walk-ins are welcome to this free event at 10:00 a.m. at Chabad Education Center, 21560 Angela Lane, Venice. For more information, contact Chaya Rivka Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rivka@ chabadofvenice.com.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 2 The Tefillin Club Get your week off to a great start with the Monday morning Tefillin Club at 8:00 a.m. at Chabad Education Center 21560 Angela Lane, Venice. Shacharit will be followed by coffee and bagels, and a 15-minute “Living Torah” film. Each week, Rabbi Sholom Schmerling will expound on a different prayer, thus enabling each participant to really learn how to pray. No prior experience necessary. (If you don’t have a pair of tefillin, we have one for you.) For more information, contact Rabbi Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabadofvenice.com.
me LDetesDESIGN ign YourYOUR Way WAY
Jan Kolchinsky, Certified Interior Designer Just moved from New Jersey to Sarasota
Jan Kolchinsky, Certified Interior Designer Just moved from New Jersey to Sarasota
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jankolchinsky@gmail.com
A Class on Happiness: “From Worrier to Warrior” Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
“From Worrier to Warrior” is a realistically optimistic six-week course on personal transformation. It recognizes that the issue of negative emotions has plagued humanity since the dawn of time. The lessons draw on ancient Torah and Kabbalistic concepts to deliver refreshingly new and doable solutions. The result is a groundbreaking paradigm shift that opens the door to a new view of oneself and one’s purpose, cures negative emotions in their myriad forms, and gently guides participants through the process of converting undesirable emotions to healthy, empowering and optimistic thoughts and feelings. This course is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Join us at 10:00 a.m. at Chabad Education Center, 21560 Angela Lane, Venice. The first class is free. To register and for more information, visit www.chabadofvenice.com/jli or call 941.493.2770.
McCarver & Moser Jewelers ISRAELI ART AND JEWELRY TRUNK SHOW Tuesday, December 17, 2019 Noon – 5:00pm 1301 Main St #101, Sarasota
NCJW’s “The Blankee Bee” The National Council of Jewish Women has an ongoing project called “The Blankee Bee.” The project has involved its members in making nosew fleece blankets which have been distributed to various agencies, such as Manatee Community Action Agency, HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters), residents of Anchin Pavilion, patients at the Florida Cancer Center, and children at Camp Mariposa as a joint venture with JFCS of the Suncoast. Join us from 10:00 a.m. to noon on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life (582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota) to make these blankets. For more information, contact Dale Gruder at lifesabeachbag@gmail.com or 941.554.8592.
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Shop for your Hanukkah gifts! For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza 941.343.2113 orJlisitza@jfedsrq.org
A percentage of all sales will be donated to The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
The Jewish News is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, committed advertisers and The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.
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JEWISH HAPPENINGS
December 2019
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5
Women’s Giving Circle Open House Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
We invite you to learn about the Women’s Giving Circle and the exciting projects that we have supported. Debbie Yonker is the chair of the Women’s Giving Circle. Join us from 10:00 a.m. to noon in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. RSVP to Brieana Duckett-Graves at bdgraves@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6305. For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza at jlisitza@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2113.
The Original Brown Bag with Rabbi Geoff Huntting Temple Sinai has a longstanding tradition of Rabbi Geoff Huntting hosting a brown bag lunch and discussion of timely topics. Join us in spirited conversations surrounding worldly events. Bring a bag lunch and an open mind to discuss important issues. Participants are encouraged to introduce ideas for discussion, analysis and/or debate. This free workshop takes place on Wednesdays, December 4 and 18 at 11:45 a.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). For more information, call 941.924.1802 or email office@sinaisrq.org.
Temple Emanu-El’s “Lunch with the Rabbis” Are you looking for a great lunch date? Join Rabbi Brenner Glickman, Rabbi Michael Shefrin and friendly, interesting companions for lunch, socializing, and a discussion of current events and subjects of Jewish interest. All are invited to this popular, stimulating and enjoyable program at noon at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Attendees are asked to bring a brown-bag lunch and are also welcome to bring a newspaper article for discussion. Homemade dessert and terrific company are provided! For more information, call the temple office at 941.371.2788.
Idelson Book Review Join us at 1:15 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom (1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota) as Martin Buber: A Life of Faith & Dissent is reviewed by Harold Halpern. In this book written by Paul Mendes-Flohr, faith and dissent are the dominant themes in Buber’s Jewishness. For Buber, being a Jew required faith in God and an obligation to dissent when that faith was distorted. The book explores Buber’s faith and dissent in his own words, including his courage in the face of Nazism and his approach to Zionism. Light refreshments will be served before and after the review. No charge. For more information, contact Lex Calaguas at 941.955.8121 or info@templebethsholomfl.org.
Manatee Players’ 2019-2020 Season Dec 5 - 22
Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)*
Dec 5 - 22
It’s A Wonderful Life*
Jan 16 - Feb 2
Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical* Goat Song Revel
Feb 20 - Mar 8
Damn Yankees*
mar 19 - apr 5
Doubt, A Parable
Apr 2 - apr 19
You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown*
may 7 - 24
Marra B. Gad, author of The Color of Love: A Memoir of a Mixed Race Jewish Girl, and Angela Himsel, author of A River Could Be a Tree, will each present a story about their journey of Jewish identity based upon their memoirs, each related to family, love and faith. This People of the Book event takes place from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. To purchase tickets ($10), go to jfedsrq.org/ books or call 888.718.4253, Option 1.
Author Jami Attenberg at JCV Author Jami Attenberg will speak about her new novel, All This Could Be Yours, at 10:30 a.m. at the Jewish Congregation of Venice, 600 North Auburn Street. Free and open to the public by reservation only. Reserve a seat at https://jamivisitsvenice.eventbrite.com. For more information, contact Cynthia Greene at 941.218.6915 or cyn1greene@yahoo.com.
Temple Sinai Men’s Club Lunch and Learn Temple Sinai’s Men’s Club program, “Wine is Just Too Complicated, Let’s Drink,” will be presented by Temple Sinai member Mark Criden, a wine columnist, who will offer samples of several wines, the net result of which is intended to make him more interesting. Join this exciting adult education program and bring your brown bag lunch. No RSVP is necessary to attend this event, which begins at noon at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). For more information, contact Malcolm Roberts at migdalor2@ gmail.com or Richard Brown at richards442@gmail.com.
Rosh Chodesh Society – “Brewed to Perfection” Join Chanie Bukiet for the second class of this course to explore the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s unique view of the human being. The Rebbe defined a person not by his or her manifest failures and weaknesses, but by the soul’s absolute perfection and unlimited potential. The class takes place from noon to 1:15 p.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. Lunch will be served. Course fee: $75, textbook included; or $18 per class. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 or rabbi@chabadofbradenton.com.
“Hitler’s Jewish Soldiers” Bryan Mark Rigg, a Yale and Cambridge-trained historian based in Dallas, will tell the amazing saga of part-Jews (German: “Mischlingen”) selected by Hitler to serve in the Nazi army. His retelling is based on personal interviews with German soldiers of Jewish descent who served the Third Reich and lived to tell the tale after World War II. Join us at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Cost: $15. For more information, please contact Lex Calaguas at 941.955.8121 or info@ templebethsholomfl.org.
Jews
of Florida
THURSDAY JANUARY 30, 2020 10:30 am
Jews of Florida book lecture and signing by Marcia Jo Zerivitz. This first comprehensive history of the Jews of Florida from colonial times to the present is a sweeping tapestry of voices spanning centuries. This rich narrative— accompanied by 700 images, most rarely seen—is the result of three-plus decades of grassroots research by author Marcia Jo Zerivitz, giving readers an incomparable look at the long and crucial history of Jews in Florida.
This event is free and refreshments will be served.
Dancing Lessons Titanic*
Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
The Jewish Federation of Sarasota Manatee • Zell Room on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota
Feb 6 - 23
Apr 30 - May 17
People of the Book – Jewish Identity with Marra Gad and Angela Himsel
Musical*
Please RSVP at jfedsrq.org/events or contact Brieana Duckett-Graves at bdgraves@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6305
Get your tickets before these shows sell out! ManateePerformingArtsCenter.com | (941) 748-5875
Read the current and previous editions of The Jewish News online at www.jfedsrq.org.
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
JUDAISM & CHRISTIANITY AS SIBLINGS The Development of Sectarian Judaism During the Second Temple Period
Join Rabbi Samantha Kahn, Chazzan Cliff Abramson, congregants and friends for a festive Rhythm & Jews Erev Shabbat Service. A welcome reception begins at 5:15 p.m. Celebrate with the inspirational sounds of the Bruno Family Musicians and the formal installation of Rabbi Kahn by Rabbi Kahn’s mentor, Rabbi Laura Geller. Temple Sinai is located at 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). For more information, call 941.924.1802 or email office@sinaisrq.org.
with Steven Stark-Riemer
It's an oft-startling truth that Judaism & Christianity do not have a parent-child relationship, but rather one akin to siblings whose parent was Second Temple Judaism.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 Poetry Service with Asolo Play Readers The Congregation for Humanistic Judaism welcomes the Asolo Play Readers presentation of Harvey, a comedy in three acts by Mary Chase. The story centers around Elwood, his imaginary friend Harvey (a large rabbit) and the family’s dilemma of defining who is a lunatic. This free program is open to the public and begins at 10:30 a.m. at Unity, 3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota. Donations will be greatly appreciated. For further information or to RSVP, call 941.929.7771 or email chjsarasota@hotmail. com.
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In these six sessions, we will examine the phenomenon often called "Sectarian Judaism."
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$50 non-members $36 TBS members
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As part of Rabbi Samantha Kahn’s installation weekend, a meditative minyan and reception for Rabbi Laura Geller will be held at 4:00 p.m. Rabbi Geller will speak about her latest book, Getting Good at Getting Older, a unique perspective on aging that emphasizes that aging is an opportunity to rewire and not retire. Following her talk, enjoy a champagne and dessert reception. Temple Sinai is located at 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). For more information, call 941.924.1802 or email office@sinaisrq.org.
Register on the TBS website or by contacting the TBS office
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Temple Sinai Minyan Shabbat Service and Lecture
EVERY TUESDAY FROM JAN. 14 - FEB. 18 11 am at Temple Beth Sholom
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Temple Sinai Rhythm & Jews Erev Shabbat Service and Installation of Rabbi Samantha Kahn
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
December 2019
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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 Proudly presented by:
ZAZIM STEP Advanced Leadership Training, Pt.1 Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
All high school teens are invited to this professionally facilitated workshop, rooted in leading-edge, science-based data. Part 1 of this series will cover ways to communicate with impact and presence, and how to strengthen self-confidence and courage. This workshop series is facilitated by Uri Galimidi, from The Will to Change. The workshop takes place from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Zell Room on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served. Please register at jfedsrq.org/events. For more information, contact Andrea Eiffert at aeiffert@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6308.
PJ Library Menorah Building Workshop Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
PJ Library and Chabad of Bradenton are partnering to present this fun children’s workshop where participants will receive instruction and all the supplies needed to build their own menorahs in time for Chanukah. All families are welcome at 3:30 p.m. at Home Depot, 5475 University Parkway, University Park. This event is free but please register by emailing info@chabadofbradenton.com or calling Chanie Bukiet at 941.752.3030.
Chanukah Festival Prepare to celebrate the Festival of Lights with Chanukah music, crafts for children and Chanukah tales from noon to 3:00 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. There will be Chanukah gifts for purchase, including original framed Jewish artwork, unique hand-made quilts, books by local Holocaust survivors and others, and many other items. Join us for the grand opening of the Liora Goldberg Children’s Jewish Book Library, dedicated to Israeli Liora Goldberg, z”l, whose brief life lit the lives of others forever. Donations greatly appreciated. Kosher refreshments provided. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.
Women of Beth El Arts & Crafts Bazaar Temple Beth El is your one-stop shop for unique Chanukah gifts. The 1st Annual TBE Arts & Crafts Show will take place from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Temple Beth El Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch, 5150 Peridia Blvd. East, Bradenton. There will be beautiful handmade baskets, jewelry, scented soaps, artwork, etc., a bake sale, and a raffle for some of the beautiful crafts. This free event is sponsored by the Women of Beth El (Sisterhood). For more information, please call the temple office at 941.755.4900.
16th Annual Comedy Central Live Join Chabad of Sarasota’s 16th annual comedy night featuring Steven Scott, comedian, actor and host. Steven’s unique and tasteful brand of comedy combines clever observations of his everyday life with his amazing vocal talent, which includes an array of characters, voices and sounds ranging from celebrities to musical instruments. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. at Chabad of Sarasota, 7700 Beneva Road. Mini desserts, soft drinks and wine will be served. At 6:30 p.m. a private pre-show will be held for event sponsors. Tickets are $40. For more information or to buy tickets, call 941.925.0770 or visit www.sarasotachabad.com.
For a continuously updated calendar, visit www.jfedsrq.org
1050 South Tuttle Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34237 941.955.8121
COMMUNITY LECTURE Tuesday, February 25, 2020
7:00 pm
SARASOTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM 801 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
TICKETS GO ON SALE DECEMBER 5
ADMISSION
$
18
ANTISEMITISM
HERE AND NOW Featuring Professor Deborah Lipstadt
Lipstadt, Dorot professor of Holocaust Studies at Emory University, has published and taught about the Holocaust for close to 40 years. She is probably most widely known because of the libel lawsuit brought against her (1996) by David Irving for having called him a Holocaust denier. Irving was then arguably the world’s leading denier. Professor Lipstadt’s latest book, ANTISEMITISM HERE AND NOW explores anti-Semitism in a series of fictional letters with a student and colleague.
CHAIR: BETTE ZARET
“Lipstadt’s sweeping, accessible education on modern anti-Semitism is a welcome starting point in dire times.”
– Lauren Krouse, Jewish Book Council
RSVP at JFEDSRQ.ORG/EVENTS For information, call 941.552.6305 LEAD SPONSOR HANNAH AND NORMAN WEINBERG BROUGHT TO YOU BY
GOLD SPONSOR
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
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December 2019 MONDAY, DECEMBER 9
JEWISH HAPPENINGS TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10
“The Real History of the Nazi Party - Part V”
Mitzvah Knitting Group at Temple Emanu-El
As Berlin fell to Soviet forces in May 1945 and Germany unconditionally surrendered, many top Nazi officials fled to South America. There is even compelling declassified evidence that Hitler escaped to create a Fourth Reich in the Americas. Today, neo-Nazi groups such as the terrorist and murderous Atomwaffen Division flourish in the U.S. and countries throughout the world, spreading the National Socialist message of hatred and death that has endured for one hundred years. Join us for this discussion at 11:00 a.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per student; kosher refreshments included. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.
Are you a knitter or crocheter interested in using your talent to brighten the lives of others while making new friends? If so, please come to the Mitzvah Knitting Group sponsored by Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood. We gather monthly to craft and socialize, and our beautiful handiwork has been donated to local new parents as well as needy families in SarasotaManatee and in Israel. Bring your needles or crochet hook and a favorite pattern – we’ll supply the yarn and great company! The group meets at 10:00 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For more information, email Susan Bernstein at susanhope22@comcast.net.
NCJW Book Club The National Council of Jewish Women’s Book Club will discuss Red Notice: A True Story of High Finance, Murder, and One Man’s Fight for Justice by Bill Browder from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at the Gulf Gate Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave., Sarasota. The NCJW Sarasota-Manatee section website (ncjwsarasota-manatee.org) has information about the Book Club, the title selections and dates for the current season. Click on Community Services at the top of the page. You will also find Goodreads reviews of the books. Guests welcome. For more information, contact Susan Girese at giresands@msn.com or 917.561.5316.
AJC National Leadership Award AJC (American Jewish Committee) will present its 2019 National Leadership Award to Anne Virag, AJC Regional President, at 6:00 p.m. at Michael’s On East, 1212 East Ave. S., Sarasota. Anne will be recognized for her contributions to our community at a gala dinner chaired by Stan & Jo Rutstein, Marilyn Shuman, Emily Walsh and Matt & Lisa Walsh. The Honorary Dinner Chairs are the Benderson Family. This prestigious event will provide critical support for the much-needed work of AJC, at home and throughout the world. Sponsorships start at $1,250 and tickets are $275. For information or reservations, please contact AJC’s Brian Lipton at 941.365.4955 or liptonb@ajc.org.
Happy Hanukkah
“The 21st Century Jewish Community of Sarasota-Manatee” The Education Committee of the Congregation for Humanistic Judaism welcomes an informative presentation by Kim Mullins, Chief Operating Officer of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Kim will address the population study that was developed in 2019 by Brandeis University for our community. This free program is open to the public and begins at 3:00 p.m. at Unity, 3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota. Donations will be greatly appreciated. For further information or to RSVP, call 941.929.7771 or email chjsarasota@hotmail.com.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11 “Yiddish Theater” at Temple Emanu-El Acclaimed educator Baila Miller presents a lively, engaging and enriching program on the subject of Yiddish theater. With a repertoire that included Purim plays, modern dramas, comedies and musicals, Yiddish theater represented the most innovative performers of early-twentieth-century Europe and played a vital role in the lives of American immigrants. All are welcome to this special program of learning and entertainment at 10:30 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Cost: $10. For more information, email Ellen Zipin at ezipin2@comcast.net.
I B L E R AL YESHIVA a t o s a r a s PRESENTS DECEMBER 2019 – JANUARY 2020 COURSES
HOW JEWS CONQUERED THE WESTERN FRONTIER MONDAYS 3:15 PM–4:30 PM Starting December 2 (Eight Weeks)
Celebrate deliciously! For home, office, family and friends, let TooJay’s handle your Holiday Feast!
When we study the history of the American Wild West 1849-1909, it was the third Golden Age of the Jewish People. It was a time when Jews were free to do the best they could, using their intelligence (Yiddisheh kop), creativity, hard work ethic, and Jewish values. Just how did they create Jewish life and communities? There were Jewish gunslingers, Indian chiefs and many politicians who contributed to statehood and democracy. Instructor: Marden Paru; fee $70.
“REMEMBER THE SABBATH DAY TO KEEP IT HOLY” TUESDAYS 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM Starting December 3 (Eight Weeks) Sarasota | Westfield Siesta Key | 3501 S. Tamiami Trail | 941-362-3692
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One of the greatest contributions of Judaism to all of mankind was the concept of the Sabbath. It was to be a holy day of rest for not only people, but for working animals as well. The many practices and customs about Shabbat that have evolved over the centuries are said to have preserved the Jewish people. This course will cover all of the facets of the Jewish Sabbath. Instructor: Marden Paru; fee $70.
JEWISH HEADS OF STATE... 19TH – 21ST CENTURIES FRIDAYS 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM Starting December 6 (Eight weeks) Well known are the Jewish heads of state of Israel. However, Jewish leadership in other premierships and presidencies is less known. In modern times, Jews have held top-of-government posts in France, England, Italy, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, Hungary and Honduras, to name but a few. Their backgounds and stories are fascinating, especially in countries not so favorable to Jews. How did they achieve such political success? Instructor: Marden Paru; fee $70.
Inquire about multi-course discounts. Scholarships are also available. Classes are held at The Jewish Federation on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 580 McIntosh Road, 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, 5445 Pamela Wood Way #160, Sarasota, FL 34233. 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 2019
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12 Just Reel Films: Journey to Justice Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Journey to Justice tells the story of Howard Triest, Margot Coville’s brother, a German Jew who fled Nazi Germany in 1939 when he was 16 years old, returned as a victorious American soldier and then served as an interpreter at the Nuremberg Tribunal, enabling him to come face-to-face with imprisoned Nazi officials who were co-responsible for the death of six million Jews, including Howard’s parents at Auschwitz. The screening begins at 1:00 p.m. in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Please bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to All Faiths Food Bank. To register go to jfedsrq.org/reel19. For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza at or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2113.
Hadassah’s Lunch & Game Day Play mah jongg, bridge, canasta, Bunco and more from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Kobernick House at Aviva, 1951 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota. Plan your table or come alone. You do not have to be a Hadassah member to join the fun. Cost: $30. RSVP by Thursday, December 5. For more information or to RSVP, contact Claudia (941.306.5514) or Joy (941.306.5941 or jesiegel@hotmail.com).
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 Tot Shabbat at Temple Emanu-El Tot Shabbat is a relaxed, welcoming and festive Shabbat celebration for young Jewish and interfaith families. Please join us for playground time, a bagel breakfast, crafts, and age-appropriate Shabbat prayers, songs and movement with Rabbi Brenner Glickman and Rabbi Michael Shefrin. It’s a wonderful time with old and new friends! Although Tot Shabbat is designed for families with children ages 1-6, all are invited. This free event begins at 10:30 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For more information, call Rabbi Elaine Rose Glickman at 941.379.1997.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15
Enjoy our Jewish programs in JANUARY and FEBRUARY 2020 ONE-TIME PROGRAMS THE WHOLE MEGILLAH:
The History of the Yiddish Theatre A multi-media presentation with Charles Troy
Thursday, January 9 • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
WOMEN OF VALOR—
From the Bible, the Torah and Beyond A musical concert with Rosalie Leon
Friday, January 31 • 3:00 – 4:15 PM
A TOUR OF ISRAEL
A photo journal lecture with Linda Kreithen Richter, Ph.D.
Tuesday, February 11 • 3:00 – 4:30 PM
COURSES & TWO-PART SERIES Wednesdays
Ken Hanson, Ph.D.
February 5 and 12 • 1:00 – 2 :30 PM
Thursdays
February 6 – March 12 • 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
W JEWISH/ISRAELI FILM FESTIVAL
Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Brandeis National Committee at Asolo Rep Join the local chapter of Brandeis National Committee (BNC) for its annual Asolo Repertory Theatre (5555 N. Tamiami Trail) event of the season. The Sound of Music matinee begins with an 11:30 a.m. pre-performance talk at the theatre; a 12:30 p.m. catered lunch on the mezzanine; and the show at 2:00 p.m. Cost: $95 for BNC members; $110 for guests; includes lunch, talk and ticket. For further information, contact Janet Tolbert at 941.388.9624 or Maris Margulies at 941.757.3012.
Auditions for Esther: The Musical
W LEARN HOW TO PLAY MAH JONGG Joyce Doran
ZAZIM STEP Advanced Leadership Training, Pt.2 All high school teens are invited to this professionally facilitated workshop, rooted in leading-edge, science-based data. Part 2 of this series will cover ways to embrace diversity, and how to build productive work habits. This workshop series is facilitated by Uri Galimidi, from The Will to Change. The workshop takes place from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Zell Room on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served. Please register at jfedsrq.org/events. For more information, contact Andrea Eiffert at aeiffert@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6308.
W THE LEGACY OF KING HEROD THE GREAT
Susan Goldfarb and Guest Facilitators
SOLD
O•U2:00-5:00 T February 6 – March 12 PM
Fridays
W SHORT STORIES IN THE HEBREW BIBLE Rachel Zohar-Dulin, Ph.D.
January 10 – 31 • 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
W JEWISH COMPOSERS
Jerry Herman & Stephen Sondheim
Susan Benjamin
January 24 and 31 • 1:00 – 2:15 PM
VENT E L A I SPEC In collaboration with Temple Beth Israel
An Evening of
The original production of Esther: The Musical was written and composed by musician and director Jim Brenner. The play, in word and song, recounts the story of Esther, who became Queen of ancient Persia and saved her Jewish people from death by the evil Haman. A mixture of romance, humor and pathos, the production is open for auditions by talented local actors and singers, and is planned for production this spring. Auditions take place on Sunday, December 15 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., and Monday, December 16 from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.
Exquisite Music
Jewish Genealogical Society of Southwest Florida
Violinist and concertmaster of the Sarasota Orchestra
In his presentation, “Now that I Started, What Do I Do with the Information,” Scott Mandel will cover ideas for organizing your family tree information with personal examples and ways to share them with family members. He will demonstrate how to integrate family trees, stories, various documents and family pictures into a storytelling shareable electronic book. Scott’s family arrived in the United States starting in the 1880s and continued into the early- and mid-twentieth-century. Attendance is free. Everyone is welcome at 1:00 p.m. at Aviva - A Campus for Senior Life, 1951 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota. For more information, please contact Kim Sheintal at 941.302.1433 or klapshein@aol.com.
An Evening in the Shtetl Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Join us for a joyous pre-Chanukah celebration at 7:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. The event features a klezmer band, food, and Yiddish storytellers presenting Sholem Aleichem stories readers’ theatre style. This event is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Cost: $12 before Wednesday, December 11; $15 at the door. For more information, contact Lex Calaguas at 941.955.8121 or info@templebethsholomfl.org.
DANIEL JORDAN
SOLOMON EICHNER Internationally recognized pianist
Sunday, February 9 7:30 – 9PM Champagne-dessert reception to meet the artists For prices and a brochure listing over 175 adult enrichment courses, lectures and special events call 941-383-8811 or visit www.lbkeducationcenter.org 5370 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE (in the Centre Shops of Longboat Key) The Longboat Key Education Center is a not-for-profit, 501 (c) (3) Educational Organization.
WWW.LBKEDUCATIONCENTER.ORG
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JEWISH HAPPENINGS
F THE O B LE
FR
New Author Lecture Series!
EE
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PEO P
December 2019
tee a-Mana Sarasot
ANGELA HIMSEL / MARRA GAD December 5, 2019 • 7:00 pm • $10
INSIDE
WELCOME! ral Issue Inaugu To the
H S JEWIS ALL THING e & More DISCOVER , Food, Cultur Synagogues
Jewish Identity
Beatrice Friedman Theater, 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota Marra B. Gad, author of The Color of Love: A Story of a Mixed Race Jewish Girl, and Angela Himsel, author of A River Could Be a Tree, will present a discussion on Jewish identity based upon their memoirs each related to family, love, and faith.
ALEXANDRA SILBER
Jewish Culture
January 6, 2020 • 7:30 pm • $25 Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota
Alexandra Silber, author of After Anatevka, shares her memoir about the loss of her beloved father and the restorative power of family and friendship, through blending musical stylings with spoken words from her books in a cabaret-style performance featuring songs from Broadway and more.
IONS r LOCAT Locato ed Map
FIND THE Detail On the
org OMSRQ. SHAL
ION OF A PUBLICAT
FREE JEWISH RESOURCE GUIDE!
Get a copy of our wildly popular publication, SHALOMSRQ. SHALOMSRQ is the ultimate resource guide to everything Jewish in Sarasota and Manatee counties! It covers everything a local resident, visitor or newcomer needs to know: • Synagogues & Temples
• Jewish Housing
• Jewish Clubs
• Jewish Youth & Teen Programs
• Jewish Cultural Arts
• Jewish Calendar
• Jewish Education
• Israel Connections
• Jewish Food
• History of Jews in Sarasota
• Jewish Gift Shops
• Maps with Drop-pin Locators
• Jewish Service Providers
AND MORE!
What better way to enjoy a Jewish Florida lifestyle than with a publication that will help make life easier!
S. PERRY BRICKMAN
Anti-Semitism
January 29, 2020 • 10:30 am • $10 Beatrice Friedman Theater, 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota
S. Perry Brickman, author of Extracted: Unmasking Rampant Anti-Semitism in America’s Higher Education, experienced and learned first-hand that discrimination in dental schools was a wide spread epidemic. For a half century, Brickman harbored a deep and personally painful secret that he, and many others, had been failed out of Emory’s dental school because they were Jewish.
ARIEL BURGER
To view SHALOMSRQ, go to
SHALOMSRQ.org
or get the FREE magazine mailed to you by contacting Paula Ivory-Bishop at 941.371.4546 x.0 or pibishop@jfedsrq.org SHALOMSRQ is published by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
A Study of Elie Wiesel
February 13, 2020 • 7:00 pm • $18 Beatrice Friedman Theater, 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota
Step in to Elie Wiesel’s classroom and join Ariel Burger, author of Witness, in their conversations about ethics, activism, spirituality, and literature which transformed the lives of students from around the world.
JOSH FRANK
A Surrealist in Hollywood
March 8, 2020 • 7:00 pm • $10 Beatrice Friedman Theater, 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota
AZI!
Giraffes on Horseback Salad, now a graphic novel, relives the Marx Brothers film first written by Salvador Dali. Recreated by author Josh Frank in partnership with comedian Tim Heideck and Spanish comics creator Manuela Pertega, the film comes to life on pages in all its gorgeous, full-color, cinematic, surreal glory.
JACK FAIRWEATHER / SARAH ROSE April 21, 2020 • 10:30 am • $10
Beatrice Friedman Theater, 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota
Heroes of the Resistance
Jack Fairweather, author of The Volunteer: One Man, an Underground Army, and Sarah Rose, author of D-Day Girls: The Spies Who Armed the Resistance, Sabotaged the Nazis and Helped Win World War II, will present a panel discussion on heroes of the resistance during World War II.
To order tickets visit:
jfedsrq.org/books or call 1-888-718-4253, Option 1
PA TURGE N PAS ER S
IX
ALL S
$72
ARRIVING 1.12.20
Q
7:00PM
SA R A S OTA O P E R A H O U S E
been generously underwritten by the Mazur Family in memory of Len Mazur
THE AZI SCHWARTZ CONCERT has
SPONSORS: JULES & CAROL B. GREEN
CHAIRS: EDIE CHAIFETZ, FRAN COHEN, ROS MAZUR, SARANEE NEWMAN
MEDIA SPONSORS:
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH: For more information, contact Temple Beth Sholom
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
December 2019
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 16 Women’s Day Luncheon with Guest Speaker Gail Simmons Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Join us for our annual Women’s Day event with Gail Simmons, entrepreneur, philanthropist, Culinary Judge of Bravo’s Top Chef and author of Bringing It Home: Favorite Recipes from a Life of Adventurous Eating. Gail is a trained culinary expert, food writer and dynamic television personality. She is a supporter of food rescue, a spokesperson for healthy eating, and a mentor to women and minority culinary entrepreneurs. The luncheon takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Michael’s On East, 1212 East Ave. S., Sarasota. Tickets are available online at jfedsrq.org/events. For more information, please contact Gisele Pintchuck at gpintchuck@jfedsrq.org or 941.706.0029.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 McCarver & Moser Israeli Art and Jewelry Trunk Show
MOZART & MAHLER
MASTERWORKS 3
s Jewish New a readers get
Jan 17-19 Van Wezel
nt* 10% discotiu ckets. on concert on Use promoti code: JN10
Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
This is a great opportunity to shop for your Hanukkah gifts, including jewelry and art from Megemeria, Meaira T, Yvel and David Karcov. A percentage of all sales will be donated to The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Come to 1301 Main St., #101, Sarasota, between noon and 5:00 p.m. For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza at jlisitza@ jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2113.
SHAI WOSNER, piano
STEVEN SLOANE
Women’s Coffee & Casual Conversation All women are welcome to join the Chabad Women’s Circle coffee klatch held at 1:00 p.m. at the Starbucks near The Landings, 4972 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. RSVP if you are new to town or if you just want to meet up with a group of friendly women for some nice casual conversation. To RSVP, call the Chabad of Sarasota office at 941.925.0770 or email sara@ chabadofsarasota.com.
Sarasota Jewish Singles Dinner Meeting The Sarasota Jewish Singles is an outreach program at Temple Beth Israel of Longboat Key to give all Jewish singles in the Sarasota-Manatee area the opportunity to meet other men and women who are single. The group meets once a month for dinner, laughter and a time to turn acquaintances into lifelong friends. Join us at 5:30 p.m. at Waterfront Restaurant, 7660 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. To make a reservation or for more information, call or text Rosalyn Fleischer at 941.915.6631 or email rozfleischer@ gmail.com.
CTeen Chocolate-Covered Chanukah Party Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Calling all teens to get into the Chanukah spirit with a Chanukah-themed scavenger hunt, Chanukah chocolate races, doughnut decorating, chocolate Jenga, DIY coins, chocolate latkes and a Chanukah toy drive for children of inmates. Bring a new toy! The party begins at 7:00 p.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. Cost: $18; free for CTeen members. The CTeen annual membership is $180. CTeen 5780 is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at rabbi@chabadofbradenton. com or 941.752.3030.
Music Director, Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra
“Steven Sloane drew pulsing, feisty and textured playing from the orchestra” - The New York Times
MOZART
MAHLER
Piano Concerto No. 21 Symphony No. 1 (The Titan) The genius of Mozart and the profound depth of Mahler come together in one program. Israeli born Shai Wosner performs one of the most technically demanding of Mozart’s concerti, his Piano Concerto No. 21, pronounced “astonishingly difficult.” Alongside this classical treasure is Gustav Mahler’s Titan Symphony with its sounds of nature and snippets of urban life, like street bands and klezmer. *Not valid on previously purchased tickets. Restrictions apply.
Tickets from $35
SarasotaOrchestra.org | 941-953-3434
“Two Violins: Bach to Bach” at Temple Emanu-El The Brotherhood of Temple Emanu-El is extremely pleased to announce that two superb violinists, Chung-Yon (C.Y.) Hong and Anne Chandra, affiliated with the Sarasota Orchestra, will perform at this special musical evening. The program will include the beautiful and popular compositions of Johann Sebastian Bach as well as the music of other timeless composers. A wine and cheese reception will follow the performance. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Cost: $20. For more information, contact Don Malawsky at dmalawsky@ msn.com or 941.359.2890.
GUEST CONDUCTOR DINNER WITH
STEVEN SLOANE
JANUARY 15, 2020
New to the Sarasota-Manatee area?
We Welcome You!
Shalom! Welcome to paradise! We hope you feel at home and become active members of the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish community. Please stop by and visit us! Ilene Fox • 941.343.2111 • ifox@jfedsrq.org
Get Newcomer information: jfedsrq.org/new
The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life • Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232
Wednesday | 6:00 pm | Holley Hall Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center
Join us to meet Masterworks Guest Conductor, Steven Sloane, Music Director of the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra. The evening features a short performance by Sarasota Piano Quartet and a delightful dinner followed by a moderated conversation with the Maestro. Call 941-487-2717 for dinner ticket information. For more details about the Guest Conductor Dinner Series, SarasotaOrchestra.org/special-events/dinners
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December 2019
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18 NCJW General Meeting, Chanukah Luncheon and Boutique The National Council of Jewish Women invites you to enjoy the Suncoast Jewish Music Ensemble playing an assortment of Jewish music, including religious, traditional, Yiddish, Klezmer and contemporary works. You can sing along or get up and dance! The event begins at 11:00 a.m. to check out the vendors for holiday shopping. It will be a fun-filled afternoon at The Grove Restaurant, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. Tickets are $25. For more information or to RSVP (by Monday, Decem-ber 9), email Marion Marshak at marjmar7@aol.com.
“The Jews of India” Sue and Marty Spector are world travelers who have visited exotic places and have seen firsthand how various Jewish communities live. Who are the Jews of India? How do their synagogues and customs differ from ours? What role have they played in India’s history and development? What creative and “quirky” programs have Indians developed to support jobs for the millions who live there? Join us at 1:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Cost: $10. For more information, contact Lex Calaguas at 941.955.8121 or info@templebethsholomfl.org.
JEWISH HAPPENINGS THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19 Newcomers Reception: Lakewood Ranch – Bradenton Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
New to the area? New to Federation? You are invited to a Newcomers Reception to connect to members of the Jewish community and Federation leadership and staff. The event takes place from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Rosedale Golf & Country Club, 5100 87th St. E., Bradenton. RSVP to Brieana Duckett-Graves at bdgraves@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6305.
“This Month in Jewish History” Significant events in December include the founding of the first kibbutz in Palestine in 1909; the 1763 dedication of the Touro Synagogue in Newport, Rhode Island, the oldest existing U.S. shul; JNF was founded in 1901; General U. S. Grant ordered the expulsion of Jews from the Tennessee administrative district in 1862; Russo-U.S. trade treaty ratified in 1832 was abrogated by President Taft in 1912 because of Russian discrimination against Jews who were American citizens. Join us for this discussion at 11:00 a.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per student. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.
Women of Sinai Lunch and Program Join the Women of Sinai for an enlightening presentation by Jennifer Rominiecki, President and CEO of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. The lunch will be catered by Chef Adam Woldman. The event begins at noon at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). For details, contact Suzanne Weinstein at suziweinstein@icloud.com.
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Enjoy a screening of Theodore Bikel: In the Shoes of Sholom Aleichem at 1:15 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. This enchanting and inspiring documentary weaves together the stories of two beloved Jewish icons: Sholom Aleichem, the great Jewish storyteller, whose prose portrays the true soul of the tragicomic Jewish shtetl; and Theodore Bikel, the legendary actor, singer, troubadour, Jewish activist and interpreter par excellence of Aleichem’s stories. Popcorn and refreshments will be served. Suggested donation: $5. For more information, contact Lex Calaguas at 941.955.8121 or info@templebethsholomfl.org.
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All women are invited to join Chabad of Sarasota’s Rosh Chodesh Society class entitled “Your Unconditional Potential,” which will cover unconditional love and acceptance of all people. Learn how can we rise to the challenge and see neither failure nor weakness, but the internal core of perfection in every human being. Following the class, we will play a “Life Experience Bingo” game. Refreshments will be served. For assistance with underwriting this course, appreciation is extended to Anne Stein. All women are welcome at 7:00 p.m. at Chabad of Sarasota, 7700 Beneva Road. Cost: free for Rebbetzin Circle, $10 for members, $12 for nonmembers. Anyone joining Chabad Women’s Rosh Chodesh Society class for the first time is our guest at no charge. For more information or to RSVP, contact Sara Steinmetz at 941.925.0770 or sara@chabadofsarasota.com.
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Give the gift of live theatre this holiday sea son 1 ticket to eachs ofof rthjuesset wonderful show
CLUBFED Thursday, February 20, 2020
$95!
Heo, Doy! Dec. 4-22, 2019
Sister Act Jan.- 15-Feb. 2, 2020 Head Over Heels Feb. 19-Mar. 8, 2020
IMAGINE MUSEUM
Alex Bernstein, Arched Blue Crystal
Featuring preeminent works from the American Studio Glass Movement and an extraordinary selection of contemporary glass sculptures from around the world. Imagine Museum has over 500 significant pieces of glass works on display from their 1,500-piece collection. The artwork is dramatically displayed throughout the 48,000 square feet of gallery space.
Anything GoesMar. 25-Apr. 12, 2020 941.365.2494
ThePlayers.org
838 N. tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL
1901 Central Ave St. Petersburg, FL (leaving Federation at 9:00am) • Private Docent Tour • Lunch at Acropolis, St. Petersburg • $70 per person
Karen LaMonte, Odoriko
To purchase tickets, go to jfedsrq.org/events
For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org THE LARRY & MARY GREENSPON FAMILY CAMPUS FOR JEWISH LIFE
Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota FL 34232
JEWISH HAPPENINGS FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20
December 2019
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24
“Hanukkah Happening” at Temple Emanu-El
TBS Men’s Club Italian Dinner and Movie
Get into the Hanukkah spirit at this joyful, festive gathering for the entire family! We’ll prepare for Hanukkah with a traditional feast that includes roasted chicken, veggies, brisket with all the trimmings and – of course – plenty of fresh latkes with applesauce and sour cream! There’s also a menorah-making contest with prizes for every entry; a visit from Judah Maccabee; crafts and doughnut-decorating; a silent auction; and songs, blessings and fun. Dreidels and gelt for all! The fun begins at 6:00 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.
Join the Temple Beth Sholom Men’s Club for our annual holiday dinner and a movie, including beverages, popcorn and sweets. This year’s movie is Crossing Delancey. Amy Irving was nominated for a Golden Globe for her portrayal of Isabelle Grossman, a young, independent single woman whose Bubbe hires a matchmaker for her and who winds up with pickle seller Sam Posner (Peter Riegert). Reluctant at first, Isabelle gradually warms up to him and falls in love. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Cost: $25 (pre-registration required). For more information, contact Lex Calaguas at 941.955.8121 or info@templebethsholomfl.org.
CHJ Chanukah Service The Congregation for Humanistic Judaism is pleased to welcome Baila Miller’s return with a new presentation which will highlight the life of the Judeans and Israelites under the Seleucid Dynasty. We will discuss the conquests and expansion of Alexander the Great, Hellenistic Judaism in Babylon, and the revolt of the heroic Maccabees. This free program is open to the public and begins at 7:30 p.m. at Unity, 3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota. Donations will be greatly appreciated. For further information or to RSVP, call 941.929.7771 or email chjsarasota@hotmail.com.
Chanukah begins Sunday night, December 22 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22 “Curious George & the Holocaust: Stories and Crafts” In June 1940, as the Nazis entered Paris, a young German émigré built two bicycles from spare parts to escape. Hans Rey and his wife bicycled through France with a monkey in a bicycle basket until they boarded a train and finally reached safety. Their illustrated manuscript of a children’s story about a bicycle-riding monkey, who became known as Curious George, twice saved their lives. Over 75 million Curious George books have since been sold. Join us for this discussion at 2:00 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per student; kosher refreshments included. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.
A Taste of Chanukah Festival Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
The 9th annual A Taste of Chanukah Festival hosted by Chabad of Sarasota, will take place from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Phillippi Estate Park in Sarasota. It will feature the Skyriders trampoline show, helicopter Chanukah gelt drop, graffiti wall and photo booth, full-color laser show with live music, trackless train, magician, arts and crafts, face painting, carnival games and more. In addition, there will be latkes, cotton candy, popcorn and Glatt Kosher foods. Catered food by Michael’s On East will be available for purchase. Appreciation is extended to these sponsors: The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, Family Practice Associates, Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, Michael’s On East, Midas of Sarasota, Sunset GMC, Hershorin Schiff Community Day School, Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Rocketman and Dignity Memorial. Cost: $5 per person; children under 13 free; free parking. To volunteer, sponsor or be a vendor, or for more information, call 941.925.0770 or visit www.atasteofchanukah.com.
Chanukah on Main Street at Lakewood Ranch Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Join Chabad of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch at 5:00 p.m. for a Chanukah celebration on Main Street featuring a Grand Lego Menorah and Chanukah Gelt Drop! Enjoy different types of food and live music. Join in many fun activities including face painting, a dreidel bounce house, doughnut decorating and a raffle. Special thanks to The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee for sponsoring this event. Admission is free. Nominal food fees apply. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 or rabbi@chabadofbradenton.com.
Chanukah Menorah Lighting in Englewood Join us at 5:00 p.m. as we celebrate the first night of Chanukah in Englewood (396 W. Dearborn St.) with the lighting of a giant menorah, music, latkes and donuts. Bring the entire family and make this your special Chanukah celebration. For more information, call Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or visit www.chabadofvenice.com.
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JEWISH HAPPENINGS
December 2019
! s e t a d e h t ve
sa
11 TH ANNUAL PRESE
V E R fa m i ly N T E D BY t h e M I L M A N - KO
SPONSORED BY THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF SARASOTA-MANATEE
March 11 – 22, 2020 “Our monthly Jewish-themed film series focuses on real slices of life we can all relate to.”
CO - C H A I R S
CHERYL SHAPIRO AND BUNNY SKIRBOLL B RO N Z E S P O N S O R S
– ROSANN BLACK
JOURNEY TO JUSTICE
Thursday, December 12, 2019 • 1:00 pm This is the story of a 16 year old German Jew who fled Nazi Germany in 1939, returned as an American soldier and then served as an interpreter during the Nuremberg Trial.
M E D I A PA RT N E R S
This film was shot in five countries and features extensive archival research and images, including historic film and photographs shot by Howard himself
Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life
To become a sponsor, contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org
582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL
DENIAL
Tuesday, January 14, 2020 • 7:00 pm In 1993, Deborah Lipstadt published Denying the Holocaust. Two years later, author David Irving sued her for libel because she spoke about him deliberately distorting historical facts.
Nominations: Outstanding British Film of the Year by BAFTA Awards and Best Supporting Actor by Denver Film Critics Society
Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL
Welcome
NEWCOMERS RECEPTIONS
WARSAW: A CITY DIVIDED
Tuesday, February 11, 2020 • 7:00 pm This film sheds new light into the Nazi process of division and resettlement, culminating in nearly destroying Warsaw and in the deaths of thousands. By interweaving the past with the present, it affirms the importance —and the difficulty— of remembering.
Special guest: Howard Chandler, Classroms Without Borders, survivor Auschwitz and Buchenwald camps
Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL
BOYCOTT THIS!
Tuesday, March 3, 2020 • 7:00 pm Viewers join comedian Brad Stine on a journey in search of truth that takes him across the US and Israel, learning first-hand how, if successful, the BDS movement would destroy the livelihoods of thousands of Palestinian families.
Special guest: Producer Laurie Cardoza-Moore with Q&A
AD R B
E N TO N
Thursday Dec 19, 2019 5 –7pm
or
SAR
A S OTA
Monday Jan 13, 2020 5 –7pm
ROSEDALE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 5100 87th St. E. Bradenton
EMBASSY SUITES 202 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
CO-CHAIRS: SHARYN NASSAU C YNTHIA WRIGHT
CO-CHAIRS: SHEREE AND LARRY ZASLAVSKY
Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL
LIMIT 2 TICKETS PER FILM. THE SERIES IS FREE but audience members are encouraged to bring cans of food which will be donated to All Faiths Food Bank.
CHAIR: ROSANN BLACK
For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza at jlisitza@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2113. R: TO REGISTE
VISIT: JFEDSRQ.ORG/Reel19
MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY
NEW TO THE AREA? NEW TO FEDERATION? • You are invited to a Newcomers Reception in either Bradenton or Sarasota • Connect with other members of the Jewish community • These events are FREE, but reservations are required
RSVP via jfedsrq.org/events or Brieana Duckett-Graves 941.552.6305 bdgraves@jfedsrq.org
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
December 2019
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25
11B
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27
Tradition: Fiddler on the Roof Sing-Along
Temple Sinai Rhythm & Jews Chanukah Service
Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Join your mishpocheh to schmooze, nosh, sing and dance with a screening and sing-along of Fiddler on the Roof, and a Chinese buffet at intermission. Dress in Shtetl Chic (prizes for best dressed). The fun begins at 3:00 p.m. in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. The chairs for this event are Andrea Silvergleit and Lisa Berger. Cost: $36. RSVP to Brieana Duckett-Graves at bdgraves@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6305. For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza at jlisitza@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2113.
Join Rabbi Samantha Kahn, Chazzan Cliff Abramson, congregants of Temple Sinai and members of the community at a Chanukah celebration with a scrumptious latke bar, welcome reception and menorah lighting at 5:15 p.m. This will be followed by our traditional Rhythm & Jews familyfriendly Chanukah and Erev Shabbat Service with the delightful music of the Bruno family musicians. Temple Sinai is located at 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). For more information, call 941.924.1802 or email office@ sinaisrq.org.
Zionist Brunch & Movie
Annual Shabbat Celebration of Hanukkah
The Long Way Home documents the post-Holocaust yearning of surviving European Jews to return to their Jewish homeland in Palestine. The film features an all-star cast including narrator Morgan Freeman, Winston Churchill, Harry Truman, Dwight Eisenhower, journalist Ruth Gruber, Abba Eban, Clark Clifford, Edward Asner, Martin Landau, Helen Slater and Michael York. From concentration camps to displaced persons camps (often the same place), Holocaust survivors persevered and persisted in their long way home to the Holy Land. Join us for this discussion at noon at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $12 per adult; $5 per student. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.
Join Temple Beth El for our annual Hanukkah/Shabbat service and celebration. Our choir will entertain and our musicians will play. Bring your menorah from home as we observe Hanukkah as one family, each lighting our own menorah. Enjoy jelly doughnuts and latkes! The event begins at 7:00 p.m. at Temple Beth El Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch, 5150 Peridia Blvd. East, Bradenton. For more information, please call the temple office at 941.755.4900.
Christmas Day at Temple Beth El How do we celebrate Christmas? With Chinese food and a movie! Join us for a wonderful Chinese dinner; order your choice of food from a restaurant near the temple and then watch a wonderful comedy, The Rabbi’s Cat. It’s an enjoyable tale about a cat that swallows a parrot and begins to talk. What a fun way to spend an evening. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. at Temple Beth El Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch, 5150 Peridia Blvd. East, Bradenton. For more information and reservations, please call the temple office at 941.755.4900.
Chanukah Shabbat Dinner Join us at 7:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom (1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota) for a special Shabbat dinner after our Friday evening service, complete with challah, brisket, salmon, latkes, dessert and more. Cost: $30 for adults; youths at no charge (pre-registration required). For more information, please contact Lex Calaguas at info@templebethsholomfl.org or 941.955.8121.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29 Annual Chanukah Klezmer Festival Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26 Chanukah Menorah Lighting in North Port The entire community is invited to celebrate Chanukah at 5:00 p.m. at Warm Mineral Springs, 12200 San Servando Ave., North Port. Festivities will include the lighting of a 9-foot menorah, music, dancing, hot latkes, donuts, dreidels and chocolate gelt crafts. For more information, call Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or visit www.chabadofvenice.com.
volunteer volunteer
Join us from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in Centennial Park (200 W. Venice Ave., Venice) for the lighting of a 12-foot menorah, The Freilach Klezmer Band, Hebrew School performance, a 20-foot interactive dreidel house, and Chanukah arts & crafts for kids. Traditional Chanukah & Israeli foods –falafel, latkes, donuts and matzah ball soup – will be served. This event is cosponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. For more information, call Chaya Rivka Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or visit www. chabadofvenice.com.
Chanukah in Ellenton Join Chabad of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch for the miracle and magic of Chanukah at 5:00 p.m. at the Ellenton Outlets, 5461 Factory Shops Blvd. Enjoy magic shows, raffles, music, Chanukah art, dinner, latkes and doughnuts! Admission is free. Nominal food fees apply. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 or rabbi@ chabadofbradenton.com.
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12B
December 2019
8 days. Shred the potatoes. Pour the oil. Crispy, crunchy latkes. Almost ready. Just one more. And more and more. A taste for Chanukah. Almost gone. Shred the potatoes. Pour the oil. Happy Chanukah from all your friends at Publix.