The Jewish News - February 2014 by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

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February 2014 - Shevat/Adar 5774 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: 8A Community Focus 14A Jewish Interest 21A Israel & the Jewish World 25A Commentary 29A Focus on Youth 31A Life Cycle 1B Jewish Happenings

2A Women’s Day event the best yet!

9A “A Taste of Chanukah” – an actionpacked community festival

Volume 44, Number 2

Purim Masquerade Ball to honor three area philanthropists By Marty Haberer, Federation Associate Executive Director

he Jewish Federation of Sarasota-ManaIt recently was one tee’s 2014 Purim Masquerade Ball is an excitof six programs seing new fundraising event co-chaired by Edie lected for national and David Chaifetz, Julie and Dr. Joshua Green, and recognition from Bunny and Morton Skirboll. The event will be held among 153 Fedat The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota on Saturday, March 8 at erations, and was 6:30 p.m. We are certain that this Ball will quickly recognized at the become one of the most eagerly anticipated events General Assembly in town. in Israel this past Our Federation looks forward to bringing our November. The IsEsther and Robert Heller community together for an enchanted evening of Masquerade Ball...continued on page 2A dinner, dancing and “Purim-shpieling” in celebration of the generosity and kindness of our honorees: Esther and Robert Heller, Graci and Dennis McGillicuddy, and Patti and David Wertheimer. Esther and Robert Heller: These two visionaries are the innovators who brought the Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative to our Federation and community. This Initiative has become the flagship Purim Masquerade Ball Committee Kick-off Party, December 2013 program of our organization.

5th Annual Jewish Film Festival to feature six extraordinary films By Roz Goldberg, Chair

11A

WUPJ leader shares news of international liberal Judaism

within the ranks of the t’s hard to believe that a year has passed since our Israeli Film Festival set new attendance records Church, Lustiger was in our community – but it’s that time again, Jewappointed Archbishop the Family Jeweler of Paris by Pope Jean Invoice Ref #: ________________ 14276 ish film fans! The Jewish Name: Federation of Sarasota________________________________________________ Paul II – and found a Manatee is proud to announce the six outstanding films that will be shown during its Jewish Film Fesnew platform to celtival, Sunday, March 16 through Friday, March 21. ebrate his dual identity Presented in partnership with the Sarasota Film Fesas a Catholic Jew, earning him both friends tival, the Jewish Film Festival will present a diverse and enemies within group of award-winning films about Jewish life and experience – past and present – that have never beeach group. When Carfore been shown in the Sarasota area. Each film will melite nuns decide to bebeshown at least build a convent within This Proof must signed and returnedtwice, before and showings will be fol10 Israeliwe can proceed the cursed, but sacred, walls of Auschwitz, Lustiger lowed discussion with the audience. with by youraorder. This is your Proof prior to printing. Please examine all spellfinds himself a mediator between the two communiHere are the extraordinary films that the 2014 medicaling and information carefully. RFJD will not be Jewish Film Festival will proudly present: ties, and is forced to choose his side. An Official Seadvances held responsible for any unnoticed errors. Any The Jewish Cardinal – an award-winning feature lection at the New York, Cleveland and Philadelphia errors found after printing will be customer’s sole to watch about Jean-Marie Lustiger, the son of Polish-Jewish Jewish Film Festivals, and Winner of the Audience in 2014 responsibility. immigrants, who maintained his cultural identity as a Award at the Boston Jewish Film Festival. Approval Jew even after converting to Catholicism at a young Jewish Film Festival...continued on page 3A Approvedage, and later joining the priesthood. Quickly rising

21A

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February 2014

FEDERATION NEWS

Women’s Day event the best yet! By Adeline Silverman

ashim L’Tova’s (Women for Good) annual Women’s Day luncheon, held on Monday, December 9, was once again a sellout! This year’s event was chaired by Lynn Carvel and sponsored by Susan Milman. Helen Glaser was the speaker sponsor. Nancy Swart, Federation President, welcomed the 400 “smart, philanthropic Adeline Silverman and gorgeous” women to Michael’s On East. Emmy award-winning journalist Campbell Brown shared her story of finding love in Iraq and converting to Judaism. Married to Dan Senor, author of Start-up Nation, she described her efforts to win over her mother-in-law and the true bond they developed over her mother-in-law’s stories of fleeing the Nazis.

Now the mother of two children and having enjoyed a successful career on CBS and CNN, Campbell’s heart was no longer in her job when her baby woke at night calling for his nanny, and she traded her telephone for toy trucks. With time on her hands, she felt a little lost, filling that void by connecting with her local Jewish community. Raising her children in a Jewish home, both Campbell and the audience were in tears as she talked about her children lighting Shabbat candles with their grandmother.

Nelle Miller and Nancy Swart

Campbell shared that she still feels a journalistic heart and wants to be a voice for people who do not have one. She talked about what we do, tikkun olam, being a tradition so central to her audience. She said, “You have the ability to change the world. You understand what a powerful voice for good that is,” and it had inspired her to be here with us. Serving with Lynn Carvel on the Women’s Day Committee were Karen Bernstein, Fran Braverman, Elisa Cohen, Mary Collier, Dana Corn, Alice Cotman, Hilda Desenberg, Stacey Edelman, Marsha Eisenberg, Helen Glaser, Julie Green, Stacy Hanan, Debbie Haspel, Sandi Kligman, Linda Lipson, Susan Mallitz, Saranee Newman, Irene Ross, Barbara Sander, Lee Sax, Kim Sheintal, Rookie Shifrin, Addie Silverman, Bunny Skirboll, Arlene Stolnitz and Adrea Sukin. Nashim L’Tova co-chairs are Ros Mazur and Allison Silver Schwartz. For more information about Nashim L’Tova, please contact Ilene Fox at 931.343.2111 or ifox@ jfedsrq.org. Photos by Cliff Roles

Ruth Kreindler, Campbell Brown, Susan Milman

Susan Morin, Florence Katz, Susan Mallitz

Lynn Carvel and Campbell Brown

Julie Green, Campbell Brown, Stacy Hanan, Allison Silver Schwartz

A POWERFUL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY HOLOCAUST, GENOCIDE AND TOLERANCE EDUCATION

MANY INSPIRING SPEAKERS TO CHOOSE FROM INCLUDING:

The Holocaust Speakers Bureau offers teachers a unique opportunity to expand their students’ classroom experience. A large number of Holocaust survivors who reside in this community are willing to come into your classroom and give their eyewitness accounts of the Holocaust. Also, a group of second generation survivors vividly recount their parents’ stories of survival. Also, of great interest are speakers who were hidden children, those saved through the “Kindertransport”, resistance fighters, refugees, as well as World War II camp liberators.

HILDE MANDEL PAUL MOLNAR RIFKA GLATZ MARK SOLENT HENRY TENENBAUM

All speakers are authentic to their respective experiences and feel a strong commitment to bring an awareness of the consequences that result when evil is allowed to flourish. They feel privileged and grateful to live in this wonderful country where their voices are being heard. For booking contact: Carolyn Kaplan, Speakers Bureau Coordinator 941.362.4440 • kaplan112@comcast.net PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

For questions contact: Orna Nissan, Director, Holocaust Education and Israeli Programs 941.552.6305 • onissan@jfedsrq.org www.TheJewishFederation.org

Judy Cahn, Lois Stulberg, Campbell Brown, Sally Yanowitz, Hillary Steele

Masquerade Ball...continued from page 1A

rael Advocacy Initiative builds allies and activism for Israel and has created a great bridge in our interfaith efforts. Graci and Dennis McGillicuddy: Graci and Dennis are synonymous with the term “co-existence.” They were co-founders who helped bring Embracing Our Differences to SarasotaManatee. They were also groundbreakers in developing relationships and collaborations between the Jewish Federation and the Christian community. We are so thrilled that the McGillicuddys are bringing our wonderful Jewish celebration of Purim into the community at large. We couldn’t ask for better and more loyal friends and supporters. Patti and David Wertheimer: Patti and David have represented the present and future of our Jewish community for so long that it Dennis and Graci McGillicuddy is fair to say that they can be referred to as “cornerstones” of our community. Whether it was the creation and nurturing of the Flanzer JCC, which touched so many here in Sarasota-Manatee, or the tireless efforts on behalf of Temple Beth Sholom, the support of JNF and Technion and so much more, the Wertheimers are simply our Jewish “poster children.” If only there were more like them! Patti is also our incoming president at Federation. Tickets start at $250; tickets for the “After-Party” ONLY will also be available for purchase online at www.jfedsrq.org/ Purim.aspx or by calling Joan Hanley at 941.343.2115. David and Patti Wertheimer For more information and a complete list of sponsors (as of December 31, 2013), visit www.jfedsrq.org/Purim. aspx. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Sarah Wertheimer at 941.552.6308 or swertheimer@jfedsrq.org.

3A February 2014 FEDERATION NEWS

February 2014

Jewish Film Festival...continued from page 1A Disobedience: The Sousa Mendes Story – a gripping drama about Aristides de Sousa Mendes, the Portuguese Consul in Bordeaux at the time of Hitler’s invasion of France. Although he had been given specific instructions by Antonio Oliveira de Salazar, Prime Minister of Portugal, to deny all entrance visa requests from “undesirable” refugees fleeing Hitler, de Sousa Mendes found himself engulfed in a moral dilemma when he tried to obey his orders. This is a thrilling, little-known true story of the courageous man who saved almost ten times as many Jews as Schindler did, and 20,000 non-Jews as well. His heroic operation has been described by historians as “the largest rescue action by a single individual during the Holocaust.” Best Narrative Feature Award: Los Angeles Jewish Film Festival. Bethlehem – an engrossing, awardwinning drama that reflects the conflicts and pressures that both Israelis and Palestinians confront within their respective societies – and how the best of intentions and motivations can become muddled and distorted by the ever-evolving circumstances at play in the region. The film highlights the complex relationship between 17-year-old Bethlehem native Sanfur, a Palestinian informant whose older brother is being sought for terrorist attacks against Israeli civilians, and Israeli military intelligence officer Razi. The film was directed by Israel’s Yuval Adler, who co-wrote the script with Arab journalist Ali Waked; the film premiered at the Haifa Film Festival. An interview with Adler will appear in The New York Times on March 2. Israel’s official entry for the Foreign Language Oscar; winner of 6 Ophir awards in Israel; winner of the FEEDORA award at the Venice Film Festival. The Return of the Violin – a thrilling documentary about the fate of the Stradivarius violin that was stolen from the brilliant, celebrated violinist, Bronislaw Huberman, while he was performing on stage at Carnegie Hall in 1936. This concert was one of many that Huberman performed around the world to raise the money needed to create a world-class orchestra in Palestine – which later became the Israel Philharmonic – and, in the process, to save 1,000 outstanding Jewish musicians and their families from the Nazis, and preserve the cultural achievement of the Jewish people. If you loved

Orchestra of Exiles last year, you will be enthralled with The Return of the Violin. An Article of Hope – a moving documentary about the untold story of Colonel Ilan Ramon, a fighter pilot and son of Holocaust survivors who became the first and only astronaut from Israel. Embarking on a mission with the most diverse shuttle crew ever to explore space – the seven-person crew of the ill-fated shuttle Columbia – Colonel Ramon realized the significance of “being the first,” and his journey became a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. He carried into space a miniature Torah scroll that had survived the horrors of Bergen-Belsen, and tells the story of this scroll from the flight deck of Columbia. “This story takes you on a journey of the human spirit – an extraordinary story of hope for the future, in the face of tragedy.” An Article of Hope was produced to mark the 10th anniversary of the shuttle Columbia disaster. Winner of Jury Award: Best Documentary Feature - Washington West Film Festival. God’s Neighbors – a powerful, provocative, yet surprisingly tender feature film about the conflict between Orthodox and secular in one Israeli community, Bat Yam, south of Tel Aviv. Three young men from the Breslov Chassidic sect take it upon themselves to police their neighborhood and protect it from the scourge of immodestlydressed women, stores that are open on the Sabbath, and purveyors of pornographic material. Yet, one of the three, Avi, struggles to find balance between religious vigor and tolerance for others. It is the dichotomy between his aggressive persona and his gentle, emotional side that makes this film so touching and powerful. It raises difficult questions while allowing audience members to come to their own conclusions. Winner of the Society of Authors, Directors and Composers award in Cannes; shown at the Israeli Film Festival in New York, the Jewish International Film Festival in Australia, and at many other venues around the world. The films were selected by Roz Goldberg, Chair of the Jewish Film Festival Committee, and the Committee’s members: Karen Bernstein, Marsha Eisenberg, Barbara Jacob, Helene Morgenstern, Susan Newmark, Lois Stulberg, Evans Tilles and Janet Tolbert. The Jewish Film Festival 2014 is presented in partnership with the Sarasota Film Festival, which will show additional Jewish-themed films on

DID YOU KNOW? The Jewish Federation provides grants to qualifying non-profit organizations.

DOES YOUR PROJECT/PROGRAM ALIGN WITH OUR MISSION? Our Mission: To save Jewish lives and enhance Jewish life in Sarasota-Manatee in Israel and around the world. For more information please contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org.

APPLY AT: WWW.JFEDSRQ.ORG/GRANTS.ASPX DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 15, 2014 The Klingenstein Jewish Center 941.371.4546 TheJewishFederation.org

Monday and Tuesday, April 7 and 8, during its 10-day Festival, which runs from April 4 to 13. As a proud sponsor of the Sarasota Film Festival, the Jewish Federation urges its supporters to attend as many SFF presentations as possible,T in O addition P toSthe A JewishLES themed films. A SFederation S O Cis Iworking ATE The Jewish the Top 1% on a numberRanked of excitinginevents in conof Coldwell Banker SalesThe Associates Does Jewish Worldwide

nection with the JFF, including a reception for filmgoers before the opening screening on Sunday, March 16. More information about the JFF and how to buy your tickets can be found on the Jewish Federation’s website at www.jfedsrq.org/filmfestival. aspx or by calling 941.552.6304. JFF brochures should be arriving in homes shortly.

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TheJewishFederation.org

February 2014

FEDERATION NEWS

Survivors inspire community at Chanukah Tea Luncheon By Elyse Warren

n Tuesday, December 3, the 17th Annual Holocaust Survivors’ Chanukah Tea was held at Temple Sinai. The theme of this year’s event was L’dor V’dor, generation to generation. Ms. Betty Silberman served as emcee. This theme was brilliantly expressed through Mrs. Helen Glaser’s testimony about her experience as a hidden child and her current involvement in the community with The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. In her message, Mrs. Glaser expressed the importance of fostering the Jewish community for future generations. This message was emphasized with a special tribute by Ms. Sierra VanSuch and a March of the Living message by me. Ms. VanSuch discussed her participa-

Helen and Len Glaser

tion in Remember Us: The Holocaust B’nai Mitzvah Project, The Righteous Conversations Project at Temple Beth Sholom and how it inspired her to bring Holocaust awareness to her school. I had the privilege of being asked to speak at this luncheon about my experiences on the March of the Living and how they impacted my current involvement in Holocaust and genocide awareness and education. The March of the Living, which is generously sponsored by Dr. Barry and Anne Stein among other donors, is the stronghold of the Federation’s programs for high school juniors and seniors to immerse themselves in Holocaust remembrance by traveling to Poland and Israel. The next speaker, Mr. David Grace, provided an inspiring message about being a child of survivors, establishing a Generations After group, and the vital role this group plays in educating the youth. The final speaker was Dr. Helen Fagin, who delivered the survivor’s message to the audience. Dr. Fagin focused on how integral it is to understand that the only people who can truly bear witness to what actually happened in

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Dr. Helen Fagin

the Holocaust are those who survived the atrocities and give testimony to what occurred in the concentration and extermination camps. She discussed how movies such as The Book Thief are only a fictional depiction of what the author thought might have occurred based on the history they knew. Dr. Fagin stressed how important it is that the youth take up this duty to learn the testimony of survivors and preserve the knowledge for future generations. Unfortunately, Dr. Fagin announced that this would be her last speech and that she wants to focus on being with her family. Her vital role as an educator serves as testament to her dedication to providing next generations with the tools to preserve the memory of the Holocaust and inspire the community to do the same. In the banquet room, I could see how her message has touched the survivors, scholars and wonderful members of the community who commit to “...the responsibility and obligation to vouchsafe integrity, justice and rev-

erence for life and human dignity for all men, women and children of the world.” (Discussed in her “Our Legacy” statement.) The program culminated with a lighting of the menorah by Rabbi Geoffrey Huntting and musical entertainment by Freylekh. A very special thank you to those who sponsored the event including The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, Barbara and Martin Arch, the Gulf Coast JFCS, JFCS of the Suncoast, and The Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany. These organizations and the members of the community who participate in Holocaust awareness embody the theme of the event, L’dor V’dor. It is with them and future generations that we may carry on the torch of knowledge and make sure that the light that preserves the memory of those who can no longer give testimony never dies out. With this, we can one day

Orna Nissan, Elyse Warren, Anne Stein (Photos by Roger Burnard)

fulfill the legacy of “Never Again” and create a community of tolerance and remembrance. To learn more about the Federation’s Holocaust programs, please contact Orna Nissan at onissan@jfedsrq. org or 941.552.6305.

Calling all Israelis! By Orna Nissan

n Christmas Eve, many Israelis feel disconnected from the holiday spirit. So 30 local Israelis decided to get together and spend this holiday with each other celebrating our heritage. Being together and singing Israeli songs made us feel connected and joyful. We enjoyed homemade dishes, from hummus to Israeli salad, techina and homemade quiches, and plenty of desserts and wine. It didn’t take long before we all broke out in song, singing Yerushalayim shel Zahav and B’shanah Haba’ah. Dr. Rachel Dulin and her sweet

husband Fred are to thank for this festive night filled with laughter, singing and eating great food. The pleasant evening allowed us Israeli-Americans to get together as a group and spend time with one another as people who share a common ground. Speaking Hebrew and sharing familiar jokes made us feel at home. This was our third meeting, with the next one scheduled for late February. If you are interested in joining a group of Israelis for socializing and fun, please contact me at onissan@ jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6305.

Local Israeli-Americans spending Christmas Eve together

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February 2014

5A February 2014 FEDERATION NEWS

Mensch of the Month: David Gruber By Marty Haberer, Federation Associate Executive Director

Established 1971

PUBLISHER The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Road Sarasota, FL 34232-1959 Phone: 941.371.4546 Fax: 941.378.2947 E-mail: jewishnews@jfedsrq.org Website: www.jfedsrq.org Published Monthly Volume 44, Number 2 February 2014 44 pages in two sections USPS Permit No. 167 March 2014 Issue Deadlines: Editorial: January 28, 2014 Advertising: January 30, 2014 PRESIDENT Nancy Swart EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Howard Tevlowitz ASSOCIATE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Marty Haberer COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR Linda Lipson MANAGING EDITOR Ted Epstein CREATIVE MANAGER Christopher Alexander ADVERTISING SALES Robin Leonardi PROOFREADERS Adeline Silverman, Stacey Edelman, Harold Samtur, Bryna Tevlowitz, Deb Bryan JOSEPH J. EDLIN JOURNALISM INTERN Sammy Robbins, Sarah Tedesco 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.

avid Gruber was enjoying Chanukah on Main Street in Lakewood Ranch six or seven years ago, when he ran into me. We had met a few times before but did not know each other all that well. I asked him if he would like to join me on a leadership mission to Israel in a few short months and David answered unequivocally and without hesitation “YES.” Not only was that the beginning of a new friendship between us, it was the start of a wonderful journey for David as he moved up the Federation ladder. Since that time David has participated on a Chairman & Director’s Mission to Budapest and Israel and, most recently, this past November, he

co-chaired a leadership mission, along at the Federation comes to the same conclusion – that David is a fun-lovwith his wife Georgia, who was making her first visit to Israel. ing, kind and gentle soul with David has served on a “Yiddishe neshama (Jewish the Federation’s Board spirit).” of Directors and ExDavid has two lovely and animated daughters who ecutive Committee. He has also served as cogo to Camp Barney every chair of the Marketing summer and clearly have inand Communications herited David’s love for the Committee. Along the Jewish people. David is a David Gruber way, David and Geortennis player and actually put gia have become major donors. Several up over 300 pounds on a bench press a years ago, through his company, Floors few short years ago. By Design, David contributed the new For all these reasons and so many flooring throughout much of the Fedmore, David is our Mensch of the eration building on McIntosh Road. Month for February. Everyone who works with David

The Mothers Circle Gathering: Shabbat practices By Flora Oynick, Federation Engagement Ambassador

hy do we eat challah on Shabbat? Why do we cover the challah bread on the Shabbat table? Why do we braid the challah that we eat on Shabbat? Like all good things, keeping the Shabbat properly requires advance preparation. We must Flora Oynick prepare our homes, ourselves, and the food we will be eating and serving throughout the Shabbat meals. Ensuring that all this is taken care of before Shabbat brings that wonderful feeling of preparing for a special occasion – and makes Shabbat all the more meaningful. We celebrate Shabbat by doing things we don’t ordinarily do, by performing rituals that make the Shabbat experience singular for us. These rituals give Shabbat an aura that sets it apart from our workweek and brings the holiness of Shabbat into our lives. The first time in history that we observed Shabbat was when the

Manna fell for our ancestors wandering through the desert. Every day they would go out and collect the Manna. On Shabbat they would not collect it. Instead, on Friday they collected double for Shabbat. To commemorate the double portion, we have two loaves (challahs) at our Shabbat table. It is customary to braid the challah that we eat on Shabbat. We braid each one with three strands; together, the two challahs have six strands. This signifies the six days of the week preceding the Shabbat. When we braid the challah we signify bringing those six days together, creating unity and harmony in our lives by celebrating Shabbat.

Are you ready to learn more? There are so many inspiring and meaningful traditions, rituals and customs that frame the Shabbat celebration. We invite you to join us on Friday, January 31 at 9:30 a.m. for The Mothers Circle Gathering. During this one-time informal session we will learn some of the most common Shabbat practices – making challah, lighting Shabbat candles, and understanding and reciting Shabbat prayers – so we all feel comfortable celebrating Shabbat at home with our families and friends. To register or for more information, please contact me at foynick@ jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2114.

Fifty Shades unwrapped

n November 19, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee held its first Fifty Shades of “J” Happy Hour. More than 35 local residents clinked their glasses and toasted to new and old friends at Café Epicure in downtown Sarasota. Happy Hour revelers were thrilled with having

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.

a new option for meeting other Jewish people in a casual environment. The event was so successful that the Federation has already booked the next Fifty Shades of “J” Happy Hour. Join us on Wednesday, January 29 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Apollonia Grill, 8235 Cooper Creek Blvd., Bradenton.

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February 2014

FEDERATION NEWS

Introducing the 2014 Bob Malkin Young Ambassadors By Amber Ikeman

he Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is proud to announce its ninth Bob Malkin Young Ambassadors delegation. Eight local teenagers were selected in December to be part of this teen leadership program and two-week mission to Israel this year. The Overseas Teen Travel Committee and Federation staff spent a great deal of time assessing the Bob Malkin Young Ambassadors Teen Leadership Program and implementing changes to focus the program more heavily on leadership and community. This year’s Young Ambassadors will participate in twelve diverse sessions before the mission to Israel, including leadership development, Israel education, community building, social and cultural activities. Four sessions will be held after the trip for the group to debrief and bring their skills and experience to our community. Teens are required to continue their involvement with the Federation and in the Jewish community, sharing their experiences and volunteering. Additionally, the application process was much more rigorous than in years past and included a 24-hour retreat at DaySpring Conference Center

in Parrish, where applicants participated in team-building activities and physical challenges. The mission itself will present new and exciting changes as well. We are working with a new tour provider, JCC Maccabi Israel (JMI), to provide a well-rounded, unique and unforgettable experience for our teens. With JMI, we have carefully crafted an itinerary that will meet our goals for the group in Israel as well as when they return. Many of the sites the Young Ambassadors visit will be examined through a lens of leadership – both biblical and modern – but the trip will also include meaningful cultural, spiritual, fun experiences and challenges. In addition to the “must-sees” like the Western Wall, Masada, the Dead Sea and camels, they will be encountering Federation-funded projects like Leket Israel’s Meal Rescue Project and the Jewish Agency’s Wings Project for lone soldiers. This is a first for this mission. We feel that it is important for our teens to understand the impact our Federation makes

worldwide. Our goal is to inspire them to give back to our community and to Israel. Because we believe that challenging experiences will incite our teens to better serve as agents of positive change, we will address and see firsthand some of Israel’s conflicts. We will be learning about borders, Israeli/ Palestinian identity and coexistence. The Young Ambassadors will also be participating in more leadership activities in Israel with one another and with Israeli teens through a new partnership with Maccabi Tzair. In addition to the Young Ambassadors, eighteen other local young men and women will be representing the Federation in the context of Israel and leadership this year as of January. Eight teens (six of whom are Young Ambassadors alumni) will be going on the March of the Living Mission to Poland and Israel to witness the evidence of the Holocaust and the independence of Israel; four high school and college students (three of whom are Young Ambassadors and/or March

2014 Young Ambassadors: Erica Brown Adam Caldwell Jared Dipsiner Julie Lichterman Jamie Metzger Rachel Miller Sam Weber Maia Zildjian

of the Living alumni) will be traveling to Washington, D.C., for the AIPAC Policy Conference to learn to advocate for Israel; and two teens will attend the Panim el Panim Seminar in Washington, D.C., to learn about civic engagement and advocacy through Jewish values; two students will be attending Alexander Muss High School in Israel; and one young adult will be interning in Tel Aviv through a MASA program. These travel opportunities are made possible through the generosity of the Stein, Friedman and Malkin families and other generous donors. For more information about the Bob Malkin Young Ambassadors Teen Leadership Program, please contact Amber Ikeman at 941.343.2106 or aikeman@ jfedsrq.org.

What does “amazing” really mean? By Grant Cotler

“

mazing.” What does it really mean? It is a word everyone hears on a day-to-day basis to describe various things. Whether it is some random food you happen to come across or a place you visit, “amazing” is frequently used to describe it. However, for those in the Jewish community who have visited Israel, “amazing” does not just describe grandma’s matzo ball soup, which is indeed amazing, but rather Israel itself. Jewish people worldwide dream of visiting Israel not only because of its importance for the religion, but also for the significance it holds as the epicenter of Jewish culture. No matter the reason someone visits Israel, most come back describing it as “amazing.” But what does this really mean? According to the New Oxford American Dictionary, “amazing” means “causing great surprise or wonder; as-

tonishing.” But even with a definition there is still much to be desired. Why was the experience so astonishing? This is the question I sought to answer this past summer. On July 2, 2013, I embarked on a three-week journey to Israel that I now describe as “amazing.” I went on the same trip my brother went on, BBYO Passport’s Trek Israel Program, which he of course described as “amazing.” My trip was unlike anything I had ever done. For anyone who knows me, they would find it impossible that I would ever go on a four-day hike, let alone a four-day hike with no bathroom. But I did. This was just one of many experiences that would make my trip the most memorable I have ever had. Another experience that I thought I would never have was at the Kotel. I didn’t even know what the Kotel was when I got to Israel. I knew it by a dif-

Lion of Judah & Pomegranate Chocolate Luncheon Featuring Rabbi Debbi Prinz

Co-chairs Nadia Ritter & Bunny Skirboll

Sunrise at Masada on one of the last days of Grant’s trip. Grant is third from the left in the back row.

ferent name, the Western or Wailing Wall. We went to the Kotel multiple times on our trip. However, the most memorable was when we went on our last Shabbat in Israel. My friends and I decided to watch the Israelis sing and dance when Shabbat began. We were soon to discover how accepting Jewish people, whom we didn’t even know, are. At first, Yeshiva boys implored that we join them to sing and dance. I did not think the night could get any better, but then it did. Two friends and I then saw IDF soldiers arm-in-arm singing and dancing. Then it happened. They asked us to join them. Experiences like that were what made my trip astonishing and caused great surprise. I never thought I would experience such things as singing with IDF soldiers or walking through the food section of the Tel Aviv market drinking the best smoothie I have ever had. But it all happened and that’s what made my trip amazing. However, that

could not have been possible without the help of the donors of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Going to Israel is extremely expensive for most families. The Federation allowed me to find out what “amazing” meant to me through the Send-a-Kidto-Israel Program (SKIP). The SKIP scholarship allowed me to experience Israel and find out why it is as incredible as everyone says it is. Without that I would not have been able to find out. I believe everyone should experience Israel as a young person, and the Federation makes it possible for Jewish teens throughout Sarasota-Manatee to do so. I encourage you to find out what “amazing” really means to you. For more information about, or to apply for the Send-a-Kid-to-Israel Program (SKIP), please visit www.TheJewish Federation.org or contact Amber Ikeman at 941.343.2106 or aikeman@ jfedsrq.org. Applications are due by April 4, 2014.

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7A February 2014 FEDERATION NEWS

February 2014

Iran: Its dreams, the world’s nightmare By Rabbi Howard A. Simon, co-Chair of The Robert and Esther Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative

weapons that will lead to the realizahe Geneva Six and Iran have an tion of a nuclear bomb. 2. It wants the agreement, a six-month agreeeconomically stifling sanctions to be rement that supposedly limits the nuclear development of Iran while, at duced so the country can get back into the same time, reduces the U.S.-Euthe business of making money by welcoming foreign nations back into what ropean sanctions on Iran. Secretary of they hope is a free marState John Kerry is attemptket world. 3. Iran wants ing to sell this deal as a winwin situation for the world to be accepted back into and Iran. the international community while giving up The United States Conlittle or nothing to gain gress is not buying it. Israel is not buying it. Saudi Arathat acceptance. bia is not buying it. Qatar These goals are beis not buying it. The United ing worked on and positive results have already Arab Emirates is not buying begun to appear. Car it. Why are there so many diverse organizations and makers Renault SA and Rabbi Howard A. Simon countries not accepting what PSA Peugeot Citroin SA have taken initial steps toward renewSecretary Kerry is selling? Because the ing cooperation with Iran and working Iran they see is totally different from together to form a new partnership. the Iran perceived by the Geneva Six. It is time for all to fully realize what the Neither company is talking about these negotiations, but the wish to be first in goals of Iran are and how they plan on line to do business with Iran is very attaining them. clear. Iran wants three things: 1. To be able to continue to develop nuclear While these negotiations take place,

Iran has made it clear to the United States that should Congress pass new sanctions if no deal is reached within six months it will cut off all talks. Javad Zarif, Secretary Kerry’s counterpart, said if the sanctions bill passes, “the entire deal is dead because we do not like to negotiate under duress.” Iran takes the hard line because it believes the Geneva Six wants this deal so badly it will do almost anything to guarantee that it stays on track. A worried Middle East watches everything unfold and, led by Saudi Arabia, several countries have expressed displeasure with all that Iran is doing, especially “its wish to expand influence in the region.” What then will the next few months produce? A more stubborn Iran is seeking to do business with anyone willing to put up the money to make whatever deals they can. The Geneva Six hopes to expand its influence in Iran by keeping the doors open to an expanded agreement. Israel and the Saudis remain suspicious of both sides while

deciding what the proper response should be to the present situation. Saudi Arabia, through Prince Turki Al Faisal, has made it clear it is dissatisfied with the United States and Iran. Prince Turki said, “It’s important for us to sit down at the same table as global powers.” Needless to say, no invitations have been extended to the Saudis, to Qatar, to the United Arab Emirates, or to Israel. These countries realize this, and because they all share identical opinions, don’t be surprised if they act in concert with one another. Things are changing dramatically in the Middle East. Unfortunately the Geneva Six fails to truly realize this. How very sad is this most disturbing reality and how threatening it is for our world. For more information about the Heller IAI, please visit www.sarasotaloves israel.com or contact Jessi Sheslow at 941.343.2109 or jsheslow@jfedsrq. org.

Faith to Faith – let’s talk about Israel By Jessi Sheslow

n Tuesday, February 18, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative is hosting an event at Church of Hope in Sarasota. This will be an event unlike any we’ve seen in the area. Christians and Jews will get together and break down any religious barriers we may have for a greater good and common goal: learning how to be advocates for Israel. The panelists are internationallyknown leaders in the pro-Israel community: For more than thirty years, Susan Michael has pioneered the development of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem in the United States and around the world. She currently serves as the ministry’s U.S. Director, is a member of the ICEJ’s international Board of Directors, and has been a keynote speaker at the annual Christian celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem. Darius Jones is the Southeast Regional Outreach Director for the

American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). In this position, he is responsible for identifying, educating and empowering existing and emerging leaders from the African-American community who are interested in supporting the U.S.-Israel relationship. Through his work, Darius has developed strong relationships with top African-American political, business and community leaders. Widely recognized as a visionary leader, Robert Stearns is the founder and executive director of Eagles’ Wings, a global movement of churches, ministries and leaders. Eagles’ Wings is involved in a variety of strategic projects around the world, with a unique emphasis on interfaith dialogue and humanitarian care. Robert regularly consults internationally with high-ranking governmental, religious and business leaders. He has met privately with Israeli Prime Ministers Ariel Sharon, Ehud Olmert and Benjamin Netanyahu concerning Israel-Christian relations.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 1, 2014 @ 7:30 PM

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Defiant Requiem tells the little-known story of the Nazi concentration camp, Terezin. Led by imprisoned conductor Rafael Schächter, the inmates of Terezin fought back ... with art and music. Through hunger, disease and slave labor, they hold onto their humanity by staging plays, composing opera and writing to record the horrors around them. Now, through soaring concert footage, powerful survivor recollections, cinematic dramatizations and evocative animation, DEFIANT REQUIEM brings the incredible story of this artistic uprising to life. Edgar and Hanna Krasa, survivors of Terezin concentration camp, will speak after the event. Stuart Eizenstat, Chairperson of the Defiant Requiem Foundation, will be introducing the program.

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Pastor Mario Bramnick is the senior pastor of New Wine Ministries Church in Cooper City, Florida, and the Founder and President of the Broward Pastors Network. The Network and the Jewish Federation of Broward County co-hosted a South Florida Summit combating the campaign to delegitimize the nation of Israel. Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon was the keynote speaker. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart, Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Shultz and Congressman Ted Deutch were in attendance. Chaim Shacham is the Consul General of Israel to Florida and Puerto Rico. Previous to this appointment, Mr. Shacham served as the Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ (MFA) Information & Internet Department, where his duties included formulating public policy guidelines for Israel’s diplomatic representatives and spokesmen, and maintaining the MFA website. Additionally, Mr. Shacham directed Israel’s digital diplomacy program through Israel’s official social media channels and the network of

Israeli diplomatic mission websites throughout the world. Further to his Internet-related duties, Mr. Shacham was also responsible for drafting position papers, speeches, opinion pieces and diplomatic correspondence to be used by Israel’s diplomats abroad. This incredible showcase of leaders who represent the many voices in our nation of pro-Israel supporters will come together to help our pro-Israel interfaith community learn how to be better allies, activists and advocates for the State of Israel. Faith to Faith: Christians and Jews Working Together for Israel will take place on Tuesday, February 18 at 7:00 p.m. at Church of Hope, 1560 Wendell Kent Road, Sarasota. This event is free with a suggested donation of $10. To RSVP, visit www.TheJewishFed eration.org. For more information about the Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative contact me at jsheslow@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2109.

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February 2014

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Jewish National Fund CEO to speak at award luncheon in Sarasota

ewish National Fund (JNF) Chief Executive Officer Russell F. Robinson will be the keynote speaker at Jewish National Fund’s 2014 Guardian of Israel Luncheon in Sarasota to honor Sarasota philanthropists Bruce and Janet Udell and Dr. Norman and Hannah Weinberg on Tuesday, February 4. Russell F. Robinson became Jewish National Fund’s Chief Executive Officer in September 1997, the youngest CEO in its then almost 100-year history. Robinson has spent most of his professional life as a dedicated leader for the Jewish people. He was raised in El Paso, Texas, where he started his career in private industry. After making a decision to sell his business, Russell F. Robinson Robinson dedicated himself to public life, serving as Director at the local Jewish Community Center and spearheading a movement to include Holocaust studies in the public schools. Robinson traveled to Eastern Europe and visited refuseniks in the Soviet Union and organized marches for the freedom of Jews to immigrate to Israel. He led a campaign against poverty in Israel, raising over 35 million dollars to transform depressed neighborhoods throughout Israel. Under Robinson’s leadership, JNF has been instrumental in developing successful programs for Israel’s water crisis, community development, environmental work, and the sustainable

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development of the Negev, all of which play a significant role in the quality of life of all Israelis. Under his direction, JNF has become one of the most recognized non-profits for its work, business management, financial integrity and volunteer involvement. Bruce and Janet Udell both grew up in Youngstown, Ohio. They met while in college and have been married

Hannah and Dr. Norman Weinberg

Janet and Bruce Udell

for 42 years. In 1976, they founded Udell Associates, an estate planning, financial planning, financial services and life insurance business. In 1999, they co-founded Retirement Wealth Specialists, an asset management firm, making it a complete wealth management business. Upon retiring from successful careers as scientists in 2001, Dr. Norman and Hannah Weinberg, with the support of hundreds of volunteers and donors worldwide, established the Poland Jewish Cemeteries Restoration Project. To date, their mitzvah project, in memory of the millions of victims of the Holocaust, has restored more than 30 Jewish cemeteries with an-

other 40 in various stages. They have been the recipients of many awards from both Jewish and non-Jewish organizations. In 2008, the Polish government awarded the Weinbergs “The Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland,” in recognition of their cemetery restoration work, fostering reconciliation between Poles and Jews, and for promoting Holocaust education in Poland. The Guardian of Israel Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, February 4 at 11:15 a.m. at Michael’s On East, 1212 East Avenue South, Sarasota. The luncheon is sponsored by Retirement Wealth Specialists and attendees will be given an opportunity to support JNF’s 2014 campaign and its important work in Israel. Registration and sponsorship opportunities are available at jnf.org/ sarasotaluncheon or by contacting the JNF office at RSVPNorthFL@jnf.org or 800.211.1502. For more information, please contact Uri Smajovits at usmajovits@jnf. org or 800.211.1502.

Venice to celebrate completion of its first new Torah scroll

Providing personal and administrative support to individuals and small businesses.

n Sunday, February 16, another link in the 3,300-year chain of Jewish tradition will be added, as Chabad of Venice & North Port welcomes its first new Torah scroll. The Torah was commissioned by members of the community. The scroll, containing the Five Books of Moses handwritten on parchment, is one the most sacred objects in Judaism. The scroll will be dedicated during a formal ceremony, where participants will assist a sofer, or scribe, to complete the final letters of the scroll. The Torah scroll – five books of Moses in its original Hebrew – contains 304,808 individually handwritten letters. With a feather and special mix for ink, the scribe writes the scroll on 54 pieces of parchment. It takes more than a year on average to produce a Torah scroll.

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the Torah scroll will be carried under a wedding canopy in a parade-style procession with live music on US41 to the shul, where the Torah will be welcomed with singing, dancing and celebration. Immediately following the dedication ceremony a buffet lunch will be served. This event is free of charge. The scribe will also be giving an educational presentation for those interested in learning how a Torah is produced. For more information, contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or visit www.chabadofvenice.com.

THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF SARASOTA-MANATEE INVITES YOU TO A

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Anyone wishing to support the Torah dedication can “purchase” a letter, word, chapter or portion. For the dedication of a parsha (Torah portion), a person will get the opportunity and honor to write (with the assistance of the sofer) one of the final letters of the new Torah at the February 16 ceremony. The ceremony will begin at Chabad Jewish Center (2169 Tamiami Trail S. in Venice) at 1:30 p.m., when the scribe will complete the final touches on the scroll. Jewish tradition says that a new Torah is to be welcomed into a community just as one welcomes a bride and groom. Accordingly,

Young Adults Happy Hour Join us for a happy hour of Young Jewish Adults between 21-45 years old. Network and Schmooze! No RSVP required, just show up!

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9A February 2014 COMMUNITY FOCUS

February 2014

“A Taste of Chanukah” – an action-packed community festival with great food and entertainment By Lee Ruggles

Sponsored by

atkes and llamas and lunch – oh my! There was a chill in the air and a snappy breeze for a while, and all around us the excitement of the day was starting to build. A giant dreidel spun lazily near the entrance to the Sarasota Fairgrounds as visitors began to wend their way into the fun and fantasy that was Chabad’s “A Taste of Chanukah 2013.” Vendors set up their wares, presenting the best they had to offer of jewelry, crafts, candles and one-of-a-kind creations by talented artists and artisans. It wasn’t long before tantalizing aromas began to waft from the Delicious Creations, Michael’s On East, Mattison’s and Veg booths. Melt-in-your-mouth latkes were only the beginning of the taste fest. Adding a touch of northern winter was a giant 3-ton snow slide which the children took full advantage of. The only thing missing from that picture was kids so warmly bundled up they could barely move! Ah, memories! The ongoing activities for the children covered an entire area for arts and crafts,

face painting and games. The llamas of the International Llama Show moved gracefully and elegantly along, gazing down like ancient furry royalty on us mere mortals. Mid-afternoon, Jungle Gardens parrots entertained the audience with their talent and hi-jinks. The Riverview Highland Dancers were impressively coordinated and light on their feet as they performed. On the main stage, the fire-eating show and the ‘edgy’ swordbalancing act weren’t easy to watch, but watch we did. What is there about such seemingly death-defying – or at least potentially maiming – behavior that fascinates us? One hardly knew where to go or what to see first! One of the stellar events of the day was the Wallenda Family challenging Earth’s gravity yet again, traversing the high wire as a pyramid on a bike, with balance poles, focused and steady, along with young Wallendas who have undoubtedly been wire walking since they learned to put one foot in front of the other. The highlight of the day was the

The fire-eating show

Attendees enjoy arts and crafts

Presents the Second Annual

A special event celebrating our seniors’ leadership, philanthropy and commitment to enhancing our community and our world. Funds raised help support life-enriching programs and services for seniors living in Kobernick House, Anchin Pavilion and Benderson Family Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on the Kobernick-Anchin-Benderson campus.

Our 2014 Eight Over 80 Honorees are: Herman Frankel Florence Katz Lee Peterson Sally Yanowitz

Ed Kalin Alisa & Ernest Kretzmer Sally & Sam Shapiro Jeanne & Bob Zabelle

Join us at Michael’s on East, 1212 S. East Ave., Sarasota

Sunday, March 16, 2014, 10:30 a.m. ~~~ Special Thanks ~~~ PREMIER CORPORATE SPONSOR:

PREMIER SPONSORS: Debbie & Larry Haspel KBR Foundation

CORPORATE GOLD SPONSORS:

PRESENTING SPONSORS: Sharon & Herman Frankel Alisa & Ernest Kretzmer Betty Schoenbaum Jeanne & Bob Zabelle

PLATINUM SPONSORS: The Benderson Family Gerard Daniel Ed Kalin

COMMUNITY SPONSOR:

GOLD SPONSORS:

Anonymous Isabel Anchin Becker Margot & Warren Coville Eileen & Howard Curd Sally & Sam Shapiro Sally Yanowitz Judy Zuckerberg & George Kole

MEDIA SPONSOR:

For sponsorship information, call Iris Starr, 941-377-0781, ext. 124 or email: istarr@kobernickanchin.org Event Chair: Eileen Curd

www.kobernickanchin.org

menorah lighting. This was not just an ordinary, every year, gather-round, Ranch; sponsors also included – 107.9 everyone lighting. This was, after all, WSRZ, Bay Village, Costco, Germain Chabad of Sarasota and Rabbi Chaim Toyota of Sarasota, John Neal Homes, Steinmetz...and the Wallendas, a large Large Invest, Neal Communities, Saratiki torch, and a large dose of chutzsota Jungle Gardens, Sarasota Heraldpah. The menorah stood at one end Tribune, Sarasota Wraps and SunTrust of the wire apparatus. The Wallendas Bank. at the other. As Rabbi Steinmetz rose in a cherry picker to the height of the menorah, a lone Wallenda once more walked across the wire, this time carrying the lit torch. And that, kinderlach, is how it’s done in Sarasota – at least in 2013. Thank you to all of A Taste of Chanukah’s generous sponsors: Major Benefactor – The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee; Premier Sponsors – ABC7 WWSB, Budweiser, Family PracChildren enjoy the giant dreidel that spun lazily tice Associates, and The near the entrance to the Sarasota Fairgrounds Glenridge of Palmer

Members of the Wallenda family traverse the high wire

10A

February 2014

COMMUNITY FOCUS

JFCS Gala celebrates the American spirit By Jamie M. Smith, Director of Marketing, JFCS

he JFCS Gala – “Celebrating the American Spirit” – held on December 15 was a sold-out event with more than 500 people attending to celebrate our programs and services. The “American Spirit” theme was reflected throughout the evening as guests entered the ballroom to the Drum Line of the Sarasota Military Academy (SMA) and listened to The Sarasota Orchestra, conducted by Dirk Meyer and generously sponsored by Bea Friedman, playing American

tribute classics all evening. For some, the most touching part of the evening was when the theme song of each U.S. military branch was played and those who served were asked to stand and were honored with grand applause by attendees. Guests were also thanked for their generosity during a picture slide show that spoke a thousand words, reflecting JFCS’ ability to positively impact and touch the lives of the entire community. The evening ended with a stand-

Gala co-Chairs Peggy & Ken Abt with Board Chair Joe & Ora Mendels

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their spirit of giving! The traditional “Boxes of Hope” table centerpieces designed by George Allison represented the services provided to families participating in agency programs and helped raise $25,000 to help families achieve self-sufficiency and sustainability. The date for the 2014 Gala was also announced as Sunday, December 14, and it will again feature the Sarasota Orchestra...so mark your calendars!

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Merkt, Judith..................................8A Michael’s On East........................24A Mishner, Dr. Harvey.....................28A Morton’s Gourmet Market...........21A Moving Mavens.............................4A Nellie’s Deli & Catering...............28A New College................................25A Observer Media Group...................11B Optical Services...........................18A Palms-Robarts Funeral Home......31A Perlman Music Program...............10B The Players....................................2B Polo Grill........................................2B Randabi’s Deli..............................26A Renee’s Home-Care Pet Sitting....18A Sarasota Center for Family Health..3A Sarasota Concert Association.........3B Sarasota Personal Medicine.........23A Sarasota Yogurt Company..............8A Senior to Senior Computer Tutoring.11A Skyway Memorial Gardens.........31A Sleep King....................................10A Stern, Richard - Baird & Co............7A The Struttin’ Pup............................1B Taradash, Shirley & Sherwin, P.A..26A Temple Beth El North Port...........28A Temple Beth Israel.....................insert Temple Beth Sholom..............17A,4B Temple Beth Sholom Schools.......29A Temple Sinai..................................9A Toale Brothers Funeral Homes......31A Udell Associates...........................18A Urology Treatment Center..............3B USF..............................................22A Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall...12B Wasserman Dermatology...............7B West Coast Black Theatre..............6B

Alice Berkowitz and Ronni Bernhard

JFCS starts the new year with a new name By Jamie M. Smith, Director of Marketing, JFCS FCS is growing! We’re adding programs, expanding existing ones, and welcoming new staff members to the JFCS family as a result. We have grown to serve Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota counties, offering more than 25 programs at 17 locations to serve more than 20,000 clients each year.

With the expansion of our services to a broader region, the JFCS board decided to update our name to reflect the wider region we serve. Effective immediately, please begin referring to the organization as Jewish Family & Children’s Service of the Suncoast, Inc. You may also use or see abbreviated references to the agency as JFCS or JFCS of the Suncoast.

Temple Beth El begins new outreach program

emple Beth El Bradenton is expanding its commitment of outreach to the Manatee County area. The congregation’s motto is “For all Temple Beth El congregants to fulfill their obligations as Jews to make a difference in the world by helping the needy in our community.” What started as a High Holy Day food drive has turned into a yearlong project with a donation barrel from Meals on Wheels that sits in the temple’s entrance. For the past few years, temple members have donated a portion of

its Casino Night “winnings” to Take Stock in Children, which provides college scholarships to students from the Manatee School system. They have now joined with Turning Point, an organization that works with the homeless, by collecting personal hygiene items that they, in turn, hand out to the people that come to them for help. The Temple Beth El community is extending its reach to help more in our area who need help as it shows our young people the true meaning of tikkun olam.

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

FEbRuARy 3, 2014 FREE ADMISSION

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

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

February 2014

11A February 2014 COMMUNITY FOCUS

11A

World Union for Progressive Judaism leader shares news of international liberal Judaism

abbi Gary Bretton-Granatoor, vice president of the World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ), shared news of liberal Jewish congregations around the world during his talk at Temple Emanu-El’s Shabbat services on December 20. The centerpiece of Temple EmanuEl’s International Shabbat – which also featured prayers recited by congregants in 11 languages, a musical program, and a gallery of international homemade desserts – Rabbi BrettonGranatoor’s message familiarized at-

Rachel Stark-Cappelli and daughter Caterina participated in the service and brought Italian tiramisu for the international dessert reception

tendees with the work of the WUPJ, which serves over 1,400 liberal Jewish congregations and 1.8 million Jews in 47 countries. He focused on the flourishing liberal Jewish communities in the former Soviet Union (FSU), where four large community centers have been dedicated over the past 20 years and where the acclaimed Machon program trains young Jews to serve as rabbinic interns and spiritual leaders throughout the FSU. He shared the moving story of two young men who became Bar Mitzvah at the Simchat Torah dedication of the Kiev community center; one young man’s grandfather was in attendance and saw a Torah scroll up close for the first time in his life.

Temple Emanu-El members Dr. Amy Reid and Michele Reich chaired the WUPJ international dessert reception

Rabbi Bretton-Granatoor also discussed the essential role that liberal Jewish communities play for estranged or disenfranchised Jews who wish to re-embrace their Judaism. While the Orthodox establishment demands proof of Jewish ancestry or presents numerous “hoops” for these Jews to jump through, Rabbi Bretton-Granatoor stated that liberal Jewish congregations greet them with open arms

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and tell them, “Welcome home.” Rabbi Bretton-Granatoor’s appearance at Temple Emanu-El was coordinated by Ina Rae Levy and Rabbi Brenner Glickman. Dr. Amy Reid and Michele Reich chaired the international dessert reception.

Joining Rabbi Brenner Glickman and Rabbi Gary Bretton-Granatoor on the bimah to recite prayers in foreign languages were Abe Zeewy (Hebrew), the Cappelli family (Italian), Alla Barwick (Russian, Czech), Marc and Shana Rosenthal (British English), Debbie Solomon (French) and Marlies GluckUpton (Dutch). Also participating were baker Arlene Schwen and readers Alex Sheyner (Russian), Harry Meier (German), Joan Franzel (Spanish) and Dr. Amy Reid (French and Portuguese).

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

Publix (Bay Street and 41)

Trader Joe's (Glengary St and 41)

Type of Meat Cohen's Frozen Hors d’oeuvres Pastrami Brisket Stuffed Cabbage Beef and Veal Sausage Beef Chopped Liver Chicken Chopped Liver Stuffed Cabbage Ground Beef Brisket Roast Ribeye Roast Chicken and Turkey Parts Chicken Parts Ground Turkey Chuck Steak Stew Meat Brisket Ribeye Steaks

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

“These we honor” Your Tributes

ANNUAL CAMPAIGN IN MEMORY OF Zack Abuza Rita and Fred Richman Elaine and Lewis Friedland Ralph Friedland Charles Green Ros and Len Mazur June Mishkin Julie and Josh Green Rick Ratner’s Mother The Schwartz Family

BOB MALKIN YOUNG AMBASSADORS IN HONOR OF Judd Malkin – Birthday The Malkin Family

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP FUND IN HONOR OF Harriet Resnick - Birthday Agnes Immeran

IN MEMORY OF Jerry Roucher Reva and Richard Levy

ISRAEL PROGRAMS MAZEL TOV Ruth Ades - Light of Torah Award Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz

SKIP (Send a Kid to Israel) IN HONOR OF Laura Hershorin Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz Pam and Richard Hershorin Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz Betty Schiff Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz Michael Shlifer – Special Birthday Elaine and Burt Herman IN MEMORY OF June Mishkin Saranee and Cantor Neil Newman Rabbi Herbert Rose Saranee and Cantor Neil Newman Marty Samowitz Elaine and Burt Herman

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

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

Tickets: $10.00 (No Refunds)

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

12A

February 2014

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Local author spotlight: Sandy Chase, The Resolutionary War By Sarah Ida Tedesco, Joseph J. Edlin Journalism Intern

“

riting has always been my passion,” says Sandy Chase, Brooklyn native and Bradenton resident. Sandy Chase and Violet April Ebersole are the authors of a new novel entitled The Resolutionary War. This is Chase’s first book and Ebersole’s second. The first – Ancestral Spirits Awaken Me – was edited by Chase and published in 2006. The Resolutionary War tells the story of the narrator, Brenda, along with her 10 Sarah Tedesco friends and family – called “soldiers,” as they fight to keep their resolutions for the year. As the story opens, Brenda doesn’t even know why she suggested that the “soldiers” write resolutions and review them monthly because she can’t even divulge her real one. All in her “brigade” have a tumultuous year full of surprises, disappointments, laughter, sadness and betrayal. At one time or another, they fight their personal wars and never surrender. The story takes place in Englewood, Florida, and showcases characters who resemble many people we know. Through marital problems, health challenges, relationship stresses, and the tough commitment of sticking to a resolution, these characters highlight the everyday actions that make us human and show how twists and turns in life can be difficult and wreak havoc. The novel harnesses poignant

drama, as secrets are revealed, threatening to tear families apart. But there is also humor and insight as the reader wrestles with the question of whether resolutions are like catalysts. When Sandy Chase moved to Florida, she found that the most obvious way to continue her love of writing was to edit other people’s work, so she founded WordMasters, a writing and editorial company. In 2010, Ebersole asked Chase whether she’d like to collaborate on a novel. Thus The Resolutionary War was born. “I decided that I could fulfill my dream of becoming a novelist instead of being someone else’s editor,” says Chase about her transformation from editor to novelist. Before retiring to what she notes as the “Cultural Mecca of Florida,” Chase held positions in the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), developing curriculum and teaching writing courses. She also produced several human-

a human-resources communications course. Using her expertise in English and communication, she also developed and taught English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) programs for the CIA and the Fairfax County, Virginia, school system. Chase has also worked with publishers such as H.M. Rowe, Prentice Hall and Berrett-Koehler, reviewing grammar and punctuation texts and organizational development books. “I was doing a lot of technical writing,” Chase says, “and helping others write.” The transformation from technical writing to creative is one that Chase feels passionately about. “I have always embraced writing. From journaling to writing poetry, to even writing children stories for my kids.” When her children were young, she would keep a book filled with memorable events, actions and statements that they said she felt were noteworthy. She wrote them down in a book she called Legacy. She continued this tradition when her grandchildren were born and has created a new book

called Legacy II. Chase’s passion for writing is one that allowed her to become versatile in style. “Writing is writing because the reader is most important. The difference between technical writing and fiction is that with technical writing, you use your expertise to reach your reader, whereas with fiction, your characters speak to your reader,” Chase says. “They also speak with the author.” Chase is using her expertise in both styles to speak to her reader through herself and the characters she has created. Chase and Ebersole’s novel, The Resolutionary War, can be purchased on Amazon or ordered directly from the authors at www.thewordmaster.net or theresolutionarywar@comcast.net. The authors will be appearing at several speaking engagements to talk about resolutions themselves and their new book. Be sure hear and meet Chase and Ebersole at the Englewood Book Festival on Saturday, February 15.

Sandy Chase and Violet April Ebersole

resource publications, founded and edited an in-house training magazine and office newsletter, and created a career-development website. As an adjunct instructor for the University of Virginia, Chase taught grammar and punctuation as well as

See the Jewish Happenings section for more than 70 community events in February!

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February 2014

13A February 2014 COMMUNITY FOCUS

13A

Israel Tennis Centers youth coming to Longboat Key for 2014 exhibition Important stop part of Florida-wide fundraising effort

ing children become better tennis players. The real focus is becoming better human beings. One group that is particularly important to the ITC is the Embrace Program for Youth at Risk for kids aged 12-18 which this event supported in 2012. The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is also helping to support an Embrace Program at the Israel Tennis Centers in Tiberias. “The ITC cooperates with local municipalities by identifying children in danger of adopting destructive life patterns,” Mr. Bernstein pointed out. “By doing so we introduce these kids to comprehensive welfare programs that combine sports, recreational activities, mentoring and student tutorship.” One such child who will be part of the ITC contingent is Motti, a 16-yearold who plays at the ITC – Jaffa. Motti’s mother is a hard-working music teacher who can only afford to live in Jaffa D’, one of the toughest areas in South Tel Aviv. Coming from a disad-

n its continuing quest to “empower Israel’s children…beyond tennis,” the Israel Tennis Centers Foundation (ITC) recently announced its 2014 winter exhibitions scheduled for several Florida cities in February and March. This includes a special fundraising event at the Longboat Key Club Resort on Tuesday, March 11 at 4:00 p.m. being co-chaired by Larry Greenspon, ITC International Chair, and Tom Bernstein, ITC Treasurer. A team of Israeli players and coaches will be flying to the U.S. to meet members of the Longboat Key and Sarasota communities interested in learning more about the important work of the Israel Tennis Centers. “The ITC uses tennis as a tool to improve the lives of disadvantaged Israeli children of all backgrounds,” Mr. Greenspon said. “It provides them with essential life skills that will allow them to achieve to the best of their abilities.” ITC programs go far beyond help-

vantaged neighborhood, like so many of the 20,000+ children who are enrolled at the ITC’s 14 centers throughout Israel, she needed a safe, warm and loving place for her son to spend his time after school. Enter the Israel Tennis Centers, located only a couple of blocks from their home, where Motti learns the importance of discipline, self-confidence and perseverance, enabling him to grow into a responsible and productive member of his community. Other groups served by the ITC include immigrants and children with special needs, from autism and ADHD to Down syndrome, as well as developmental and physical disabilities. As Mr. Greenspon noted, “Tennis has the unparalleled ability to bring together children from different religions in coexistence programs, promoting understanding, cooperation and friendship

on and off the court.” For more information or to attend the March 11 exhibition in Longboat Key, please contact ITC Development Director Yoni Yair at 954.480.6333 or yyair@israeltenniscenters.org. About the Israel Tennis Centers Foundation The Israel Tennis Centers Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that works tirelessly through the medium of sports to enhance the development of Israeli youth. Since opening its first center in Ramat Hasharon in 1976, the ITC has helped over 400,000 children, many of whom come from outlying development towns throughout Israel. The ITC’s 14 centers stretch from Kiryat Shmona on the Lebanese border in the North to Beer Sheva bordering the Negev Desert in the South. For more information, please visit www.israeltenniscenters.org.

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

inform EngagE www.SarasotaLovesIsrael.com The Robert & Esther Heller Israel advocacy Initiative • Get the facts about Israel • Learn how to respond to anti-Semitism • Advocate to local government and media Back row: Motti Radionov (Jaffa), Shir Hornung (Yokneam), Uri Assidon (dormitory, Ramat Hasharon, originally from Beer Sheva), Rakefet Benyamini (coach, Jaffa); front row: Neriya Yona (Jerusalem), Mohammad Uthman (Jerusalem)

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

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14A

February 2014

Jerusalem Post Crossword Puzzle

JEWISH INTEREST

ONE PLACE. SEVENTEEN AGENCIES.

ONE PURPOSE. For more than 23 years, the Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center has been a place for low-income and at-risk individuals, families and children to find help By David Benkof, DavidBenkof@gmail.com

Solution on page 28A

This is the first puzzle the creator has ever submitted in which every single clue is Jewish-related. Across 1. Simplest Hebrew verb construction 5. St. with “The Holy Land Experience” Christian theme park 8. Oksana Baiul is an Olympic goldwinning one 14. “Show Boat” playwright Ferber 15. Romanian-Jewish novelist Calugaru 16. African city with an Israeli embassy 17. Three-___ matzah holder 18. Brian Schatz is one for Haw. 19. Observed Yom Kippur 20. Oxford scholar fluent in seven languages 23. Musical genre for Marty Friedman of Megadeth 24. When the Kol Nidre is recited, vis-à-vis Yom Kippur 25. Al Capp’s Daisy ___ 28. Malamud novel set in Brooklyn 32. Sound at a “bark mitzvah,” perhaps 35. Jazz musician Friedman 36. Oy vey! 37. Unit for Rashida Jones’s sitcom “The Office” 39. 29th of November and 14th of May are important ones in Israeli history 41. Alma mater for Mayim Bialik and James Franco 42. ___ Hushi (Haifa mayor for 18 years) 43. Bernard Madoff’s is 150 years 44. Title for Natan Sharansky (abbr.) 45. Six-time Emmy nominee (“Smash,” “Will and Grace”) 50. Character Gold on “The Good Wife” played by Alan Cumming 51. Philadelphia Athletics player Limmer 52. Person using one step of a method for preparing kosher meat 56. Publisher of “Israel Matters” by Mitchell Bard 59. Hank who voices Apu on “The Simpsons” 62. “Hija Ke Yo ___” (Ladino song meaning “Daughter I Love”) 63. Film historian Gerald who wrote that Woody Allen’s career was distinguished by the Jew-WASP binary 64. Allen Ginsberg’s astrological sign 65. Alma mater of Kennedy adviser Pierre Salinger 66. Last word of Psalm 23 67. Participating in Birthright 68. ___ Pasuk (trope for the last word of a verse) 69. Like the novel “The Song of Hannah”

Down 1. It meant little to Alfred Dreyfus 2. Charoset (___ containing fruits, nuts, and wine) 3. “Listen to my cry; lend ___ to my prayer...” (Psalms 17:1) 4. Item for Kinky Friedman 5. Rosh Hashana positive omen 6. Songwriter Lisa whose “Stay (I Missed You)” hit number one 7. Writer Roiphe (“Secrets of the City”) 8. 2007 Israel Prize winner Alice 9. Couric and Holmes 10. ___ kodesh (holy ark) 11. Eilat goal 12. “Pray for Jerusalem, to keep her ___ she fall....” (lines from the poem “Weep Jerusalem”) 13. Bane of Roy Cohn 21. Hank Greenberg’s type of bat 22. Shabbat observers 25. Salute to Israel Parade, e.g. 26. English-speaker in Israel 27. Mechon Hadar Rosh Yeshiva Tucker 29. Beverly Sills got her start on “Major Bowes’ ___ Hour” 30. Dachau and Birkenau are oftvisited Holocaust ones 31. Zeta Beta ___ (Jewish fraternity) 32. Yiddish writer Chaim (“The Agunah”) 33. Korach, famously 34. “Friday the ___ Slept Late” (Harry Kemelman mystery) 38. ___ Cheshvan (fall month) 40. Branson, Missouri comedian Yakov 46. Prayer at the end of services 47. Industry introduced by South African Jews 48. Wellness agy. once led by Milton J. Rosenau 49. “Revenge of the Lawn ___” (R.L. Stine “Goosebumps” installment) 53. Yasmin Levy’s third album “Mano ___” 54. Delancey-___ (Lower East Side subway stop) 55. Act as the Goldman family did toward O.J. Simpson 56. Award for Amy Gottlieb and Sarah Stern 57. Art Spiegelman’s 1992 Pulitzerwinning rodent novel 58. “Mazel Tov!” (“I ___ happy for you!) 59. “Pictures of Jewish Home-Life Fifty Years ___” by Hannah Trager 60. It’s practiced by some Bu Jews 61. Size of a bat mitzvah gift, e.g.

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February 2014

15A February 2014 JEWISH INTEREST

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A grand study of the Yiddish writer whose stories were the source for Fiddler on the Roof By Philip K. Jason, Special to The Jewish News over 100,000 subscribers each.” Hero Reads the Newspapers in YidHowever, the main struggles are dish and Becomes a Media Star (1899the basic human and professional ones 1903).” All the other chapters also of raising a family and making a living begin with “In Which Our Hero...” as a (Yiddish) writer. Even though, as These trappings, at once charmDauber tells us, “1903 marked [Sholem ing and humorous, are also thematic. holem Aleichem rose to promiAleichem’s] twentieth anniversary as a Dauber is concerned with art and arnence in his lifetime, but as biYiddish writer, and the young upstart tifice, and he underscores the various ographer Jeremy Dauber is at had become the celebrated master,” ways in which Sholem Aleichem’s life great pains to demonstrate, he rose to there was never enough money. In one and art interact. In the beginning, there even greater fame in the many decades instance, Dauber relates a 1901 episode was the self-creation: A man named that followed his in which Sholem Aleichem runs off afSholem Rabinovich (1859-1916) death. This pheter the birth of his last child “in search turned himself into an author-character nomenon was due of a loan from a friend or acquaintance named Sholem Aleichem. in large part to the to pay off the midwife and the doctor.” To Dauber’s great credit, he does several serviceDauber’s ongoing descriptions of his not totally give in to his foreground able collections of hero’s family life, his illnesses (which subject, colorful and dynamic as he his stories in Engoften demanded relocation for rest and was, but always sets him within a delish translation, to recuperation), and his struggle for martailed historical context. It is amazing the revivals of his kets and payments for his nonstop prohow often and quickly change unfolded plays and, eventuductivity are constantly fascinating in in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Phil Jason ally, to the grand The life of the shtetl Jews of Eastern their detail and emotional resonance. Broadway and cinematic renderings of Europe that Rabinovich knew so well In tracing Sholem Aleichem’s the interplay among Tevye the milkand brilliantly immortalized was fadmovements – pressured by the vulnerman, his wife and (especially) his ing fast, prolonged only by the waves ability of Jewish communities, busichildren. The success of Fiddler on of pogrom-driven immigraness opportunities and the Roof eventually opened the door tion to New York but, even health issues – Dauber to serious assessments of Sholem then, quickly and radically gives us an intriguing Aleichem’s substantial, foundational altered. Dauber brings this map of Europe, and achievements. tumultuous history to life. a bit of the United To underscore the theatrical – or Of the many issues this States as well. Small is it the dramatic? – nature of Sholem study treats, several stand towns, restorative reAleichem’s life and career, both during out. Among these is Sholem treats and busy cities and after the writer’s lifetime, Dauber Aleichem’s place in the conall provide not-quiteharnesses his colorful, fact-filled chaptest regarding the primacy permanent homes for ters into the structure of a five-act play. of Yiddish or Hebrew as the the vagabond virtuoso Not only is this teeming full-length national literary language of – a man at once rootJeremy Dauber exploration of Sholem Aleichem’s perthe Jewish people. Yiddish less and deeply rootsonhood and achievement presented as seems to win in the short run, as Sholem ed. Like Anthony Trollope in England, both melodrama and tragicomedy, it is Aleichem rises to ascendancy, becomSholem Aleichem became comfortable also framed by an “Overture: Setting ing a premier builder of a substantial and productive writing on train trips. the Scene” and a lengthy epilogue in body of popular and acclaimed Yiddish Nonetheless, according to Dauber, 10 brief scenes that follow the postliterature and drama – a literature that “[a]n early version of the money tour humous life, or “afterlife,” of the subfed and was fed by a vanishing culture. in the summer of 1902, visiting Jewish ject’s works. Along the way, we learn about the Eucities around the Pale [Russian-sancDauber doesn’t miss a chance to exropean and American Yiddish press, its tioned Jewish settlements] to support tend his theatrical motif. Each chapter rivalries and jealousies, its great period his Folkstsaytung, was distasteful; captures the phrasing of Victorian epiof bloom and its inevitable fading. By Sholem Aleichem only agreed to do it sodic fiction and perhaps a bit of silent because he had no financial choice.” 1911, in greater Warsaw, with a Jewmovie placard writing. For example, This life study of a prominent auish population of more than 5 million, Chapter 13 is headed “In Which Our thor also provides, as many similar “two leading newspapers would have books do not, a careful reading of that author’s representative works. Sholem Aleichem’s reputation was and is caught up in the critical battleground over the relative status of literary and folk literature. Dauber examines themes, Through the The Worlds of Sholem Aleichem: The Remarkable Life and Afterlife of the Man Who Created Tevye, by Jeremy Dauber. Shocken/Nextbook. 464 pages. $28.95.

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characters and techniques in a manner that insists on valuing Sholem Aleichem as a literary artist, not merely a folktale purveyor. Though Sholem Aleichem often presents characters who seem like country bumpkins, closer examination reveals their complexity and their creator’s artistic sophistication. While Tevye, due to his amazing life beyond his creator’s death, is the most prominent, many others are shaped and nuanced with equal skill. Because Dauber is more concerned with the impact of his subject’s achievement than with its ultimate literary stature, his descriptions of the stories and novels do not include lengthy stylistic analyses or appraisals. In addition, Dauber is alert to Sholem Aleichem’s reworking of earlier efforts and his tendency to exploit the same motifs and issues over and over – a part of the writing life framed by deadlines and the need to fulfill promises. Sholem Aleichem wrote more for the masses than for the intelligentsia, but he managed to please both. Jeremy Dauber also has a great story to tell, and he tells it with precision, with gusto, and with more than a little showmanship. With the addition of his abundant, carefully managed research, Dauber will satisfy both the general reader and the academic community. He brings his subject fully to life and he reveals the complex meaning of that life. What more can one ask? *** This review is reprinted, with permission from the Washington Independent Review of Books (www.washing tonindependentreviewofbooks.com), where it was first published on November 8, 2013. Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeritus of English from the United States Naval Academy. He reviews regularly for Florida Weekly, Jewish Book World, Southern Literary Review, and other publications. Please visit Phil’s website at www.philjason.wordpress.com.

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February 2014

JEWISH INTEREST

K’zohar Ha-Ivrit Love – Ahavah By Dr. Rachel Zohar Dulin

Thru Feb. 16, 2014

Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU CONFESSIONAL COMICS BY JEWISH WOMEN

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

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

New United Markets Store in St. Petersburg, 1921. Ninth store in the chain started by Nathan Rosenblatt. Bern Laxer, Owner of Bern’s Steakhouse, Tampa, late 1960s.

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

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

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February 2014

23A ISRAEL & THEFebruary JEWISH 2014 WORLD

23A

The magic that is Jerusalem By Patricia Friedberg

erusalem is Israel. It is the magnet that draws me back again and again. There is nothing I can think of anywhere to compare to Jerusalem. Perhaps it is because it means so many things to so many different religions. Perhaps because it is old in the middle and new around the rim. Even in its overcrowded markets there is something spiritual hovering over Jerusalem, something beckoning me to the Kotel, to Ben Yehuda Street, to the open market where everything from a mosaic camel to a vegetable I have never before laid eyes on awaits me. It’s the colors, the aromas, the energy of young men pushing barrows loaded with shining purple aubergines, and old men, oblivious to the tumult, sitting engrossed in a game of backgammon. It’s the dried fruits in abundance in stalls, next to other stalls offering hunks of halva, nuts, fresh fruit, fish and meat. Old and new structures stand side by side. Arab and Jew walk side by side. Women and children walk side by side. Orthodox Jews walk as they have for centuries, their women following. When I tire and my feet ache, I find a seat and people-watch. I see soldiers. I see children. I see the ultra-religious and those who are non-observant. I see teenagers coming to Israel on the Birthright program, discovering what it is that makes them a Jew. I see blackskinned Jews and brown-skinned Jews. I hear so many languages I begin to feel I’m in the Tower of Babel. A Greek Orthodox priest passes by; a nun walks the steps Jesus took on the Via Dolorosa. Wait – someone’s yelling in Hebrew. “What’s his problem?” I ask a woman resting beside me. She replies, “He’s lost his wife. Has anyone seen his wife?”

“How would we know her if we saw her?” “You wouldn’t – ignore him. She’ll find him – how could you miss such a meshugener?” If it’s Saturday, no Jews, or very few are seen; if it’s Friday, no Muslims; if it’s Sunday, no Christians. Don’t tell me this isn’t a multi-religious city. Who am I? A British Jew brought up in London. A Rhodesian Jew forced to leave the country I loved so much. An Anglo-American, who goes home to London, comes back to America and feels a kinship with Israel. Not only with Jerusalem but with the country itself, all the small towns: Caesarea and its Roman remains; the Golan, where they seem to take the rockets from Lebanon for granted; Netanya, where there seems to be more Brits than Israelis; kibbutzim and moshavim; Arab villages and Bedouin encampments. Palestinians – I wish I could speak to them. I’m a writer, once a journalist, and I want to know how they feel, and whether they want to live in peace, or rid the world of Jews and just see Israel sink into the sea to claim back what they are told is theirs. I drive with a friend. He sees a gate. Oh, pity, usually it’s open – we could have gone through Jordan. He reverses and we continue on to have Sabbath dinner somewhere in the Golan. No candles on the table. No prayers. These are secular Jews not interested in the traditions – eat, eat, plenty more in the kitchen. My dad must be turning in his grave. Friday night at home in London during the Second World War, we lit candles and said the blessings, no matter whether air raids sounded or shelters beckoned. Here in Israel, I’m in the land of the Bible, and Israelis don’t have to be reminded they are Jews. The day before I was scheduled to

fly to Israel, the U.S. State Department closed all embassies in the Middle East. I was advised not to go; there was trouble in Syria. I ignored the warning. I would not willingly walk into danger, but I know that in Israel there is always danger and if I stayed away I’d be doing a disservice to myself and to the country I admire. Israel is continually threatened. Enemies abound. Anger proliferates on both sides. I will not stay away. It is not my country but I do feel it is my responsibility to help, to do what I can to counter the criticism and to tell others to visit and experience Israel for themselves. I will speak about it, write about it, and support it in any way I can. And, I will return. Patricia Friedberg is the author of 21 Aldgate (Rainbow Books, Inc., 2010), a historical novel set in London’s Jewish East End and fashionable Chelsea from the 1930s into World War II. Her latest book is the memoir Letters from

Wankie: A Place in Colonial Africa, based on some 500 letters she wrote to her parents in London during her first two years as a young bride in colonial Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). Currently a resident of Sarasota, she has spoken at many temples and Jewish community organizations in the UK and the U.S. She was a guest speaker at the Interesting Lives seminar at Temple Beth Sholom, and on the Florida Authors Panel at The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee’s Jewish Book Festival. *** Reprinted with permission from ESRA Magazine – Israel’s Community Forum (www.esra-magazine.com). ESRA is a magazine in English that acts as an informative and entertaining companion and guide to life in Israel. It enriches the lives of English speakers, helping their absorption into Israeli society and encouraging their involvement in the community.

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24A

February 2014

BRIEFS A REAL ARAB SPRING Coming out of a movie last month at an Israeli mall, I ran into a conga line of men, women and children shuffling their way into a McDonald’s. The men wore T-shirts and jeans, the women flowery headscarves and varied outfits. It was someone’s birthday. It took a second look to realize that the celebrants were a family of Israeli Arabs. Today there are 1.6 million Israeli Arabs, some 20% of the population. They enjoy full civic rights and a high level of prosperity. As I drove through the Arab heartlands in Galilee, I passed a noisy town with three-story houses and an exclusive European car dealership. On Friday night, there are as many Israeli Arabs strolling along the promenade along the Tel Aviv seafront as there are Israeli Jews. Over the past 25 years, normalization has set in. Learning

Hebrew at school, Israeli Arabs have made careers in most parts of the economy and in academic life. One of the most popular comedy series on commercial Israeli television is entitled Arab Labor. It makes merry with the tensions raised by a middle-class Arab family who move into an urban Israeli apartment block. One of the Arab actors, Mira Awad, has represented Israel at the Eurovision Song Contest. Economic progress and social participation are positive indicators of how the country and the region might function if and when a peace agreement is reached. The Israeli Arabs serve, in this respect, as role models for a postwar utopia. They also refute hostile cliches such as the perpetual accusation that Israel is somehow an “apartheid state.” The apartheid libel denies the blatant reality that Israel is an evolving society with more tolerance for minorities than any of its neighbors (and most European states). The casual confidence of its Arab citizens is testimony to a healthy society. (Norman Lebrecht, Standpoint-UK)

ISRAEL, PALESTINE AND DEMOCRACY

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Israelis are a fundamentally liberal, democratic people who desperately do not wish to be put in the role of overlords. But the reality is that Israel does not rule the Palestinians. It is true that the Palestinians are not represented in the Knesset. But Israeli residents of the West Bank are similarly not represented in the Palestinian Legislative Council. Simply put, both the Palestinians and Israelis vote for the legislature that regulates them. That is democracy. The Palestinians have developed an independent, self-regulating government that controls their lives as well as their foreign policy. They have been recognized as an inde-

ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD pendent state by the UN and have diplomatic relations with almost as many nations as Israel does. They have their own security forces, central bank, top-level Internet domain name, and a foreign policy entirely uncontrolled by Israel. The Palestinians govern themselves. To anticipate the inevitable comparison, this is not an Israelipuppet “Bantustan.” From their educational curriculum to their television content to their terrorist pensions, they implement their own policies without any subservience to Israel. The Palestinians now demand to increase the geographic scope of their legislative powers to “Area C,” where 100% of the Jewish settlers live, some 400,000 people, and only 50-75,000 Arabs. The Palestinians rejected full independence and statehood on three separate occasions in the past twenty years. As part of their strategy, they perpetuate their semiindependence to maximize their diplomatic leverage. But that is not Israeli domination; that is Palestinian tactics. Imagine if Israel in 1948 refused to declare independence until all its territorial claims were satisfied. (Eugene Kontorovich, professor at Northwestern University School of Law, Commentary)

ISRAELIS FROM MINORITY COMMUNITIES SPEAK OUT FOR ISRAEL

Individuals from the Muslim, Druse, Bedouin and Christian Arab communities spoke about Israel’s role in defending human rights at the Zionist Conference for Human Rights in Tel Aviv. Anet Haskia, an Arab-Israeli Muslim from Acre, declared, “I am a proud Zionist... There are a lot like me.” She added that her daughter is the first Muslim to be enlisted in the Golani infantry brigade of the IDF. Atta Farhat, the head of the Druse Zionist Council for Israel, said, “Look at the countries around us; they are in chaos. Only in Israel do minorities have human rights.” (Ariel Ben Solomon, Jerusalem Post)

ISRAELI APPS WINNING AWARDS FOR INNOVATION, CREATIVITY

Israel is very successful when it comes to creating mobile phone apps. Israeli-made Waze, which was sold to Google for more than $1 billion, is the largest community-based traffic app on the globe. Viber, Onavo, Gettaxi and Tirecheck have all been created in Israel and downloaded by millions around the world. (Hayley Slier, Channel NewsAsia-Singapore)

briefs...continued on page 11B

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25A COMMENTARYFebruary 2014

February 2014

25A

Jewish pride and Purim From the Bimah Rabbi Mendy Bukiet Chabad of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch e are now entering the first month of Adar in this year’s leap year which consists of two Adars. The holiday of Purim will soon be upon us and with it all the lessons gleaned from this joyful day. On Purim, we read from the Megillah, the scroll which recounts the story of Purim. We relive the story of the evil Haman who wanted to annihilate the Jewish nation, and recall how Mordechai, advisor to the king, and Queen Esther intervene with King Achash-

veirosh to annul Haman’s decree thus saving the Jewish people. When the Jewish people were at the brink of extermination and the fate of their future was dependent on Queen Esther and Mordechai’s mediation, Queen Esther and Mordechai behaved in a puzzling fashion. One would think that they would utilize negotiating power, political persuasion, perhaps bribery, and a little charm to sway King Achashveirosh from his support of Haman’s decree. The Megillah relates how instead of dressing in his royal garments and using his elegant persuasive skills, Mordechai dressed in sackcloth and ashes, thus disqualifying him from having an audience with the king. Instead of beautifying herself to enter the king’s chambers, Esther went on a three-day hunger strike greatly diminishing her beauty and appearance before the king. Why would Mordechai and Esther depart from the normally effective

channels of persuasion? Were they trying to sabotage any chance they had? Did they have horrible handlers that did not explain to them the strategy of political negotiations? Their strategy was the opposite of what any respectable political strategist would recommend. Why did they choose this seemingly bizarre method? The Lubavitcher Rebbe, OBM, explains that Mordechai and Esther knew exactly what they were doing. They both chose this method explicitly for a singular purpose. They wanted to break with the natural order of what the world dictates to us. The Megillah relates that the Jews lost touch with their specialness and uniqueness. They forgot that they had a Torah and traditions with a moral code that far superseded the nations that they were living amongst. They were not proud of who they were as a nation and as a people. They therefore tried to assimilate and behave like the rest of the nations as is seen in the episode

where the Jews participated in King Achashveirosh’s party. To repair the Jews’ error and to reawaken Jewish pride, Esther and Mordechai deviated from the natural order of things. They showed the Jews that a Jewish person is not limited by the laws of nature. A Jewish person has a G-d. They just have to turn to Him, pray to Him, and be proud to be His chosen nation. Jews have a precious gift – the Torah and the commandments – which will not only save them from their physical enemies but will bring the nations of the world to praise and respect them. This message resonates in this day and age as well. With the advent of Purim, let us all strengthen our Jewish pride. Let us be proud of who we are, and treasure the precious gifts G-d gave us of Torah and mitzvahs. When we have Geon Yaakov – pride of Jacob – the world takes its cue from us and looks to us as a Guiding Light onto all the nations.

Pluralistic Judaism – an alternative to declining synagogue participation

Rabbi Barbara Aiello Congregation Ner Tamid

ur sages taught that the First Temple was destroyed because three negatives came into play: sexual immorality, wanton murder and idol worship (Talmud, Yoma 9B). However, the Second Temple was destroyed for one reason alone. In Hebrew it is called “sinat chinam” or “hatred without cause.” No matter that the Jews of the day studied Torah, observed the mitzvot and donated to charitable causes. It was their despicable personal behavior toward one another that brought the Second Temple down – behaviors that some say continue to this day. Could “sinat chinam” be one of the reasons why synagogue membership is at a new low and why the number of Jews who disdain synagogue observance is on the rise? If so, a pluralistic approach to Jewish belief and practice might be one answer to the problem. Pluralistic Judaism is based on the Jewish concept of Tarbut HaMachloket, which means “freedom of thinking and speech,” and includes behaviors which help Jews of all backgrounds live successfully alongside those Jews with whom one might not agree. The seven fundamental principles of Pluralistic Judaism offer a practical application of Tarbut HaMalchloket: 1. Pluralistic Judaism is open and welcoming to Jews of all backgrounds. Jews who attend a pluralistic synagogue can expect that men, women, boys and girls will participate fully. The hand of Jewish welcome extends to interfaith families, gay and lesbian partners and their children. A pluralistic synagogue respects traditionally observant Jews who can feel at home alongside modern Jews and offers a home to those who are new to, or returning to synagogue observance. It welcomes B’nei Anusim, Jews from lost or hidden communities, marranos and conversos, who are beginning to discover and em-

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plying that Jewish law moves forward and embraces new knowledge. Pluralistic Judaism is dedicated to achieving a balance between Jewish tradition and new ideas so that Judaism remains relevant to modern life. The movement subscribes to the joyful aspects of Jewish observance and is dedicated to maintaining warm relationships among the group. Pluralistic synagogues ask that individual political beliefs, parties and persuasions are left at the door. Pluralistic Judaism represents an evolution in worldwide Judaism that intentionally blurs denominational

lines while focusing on the individual spiritual needs of each community member. A new organization, the International Society for Pluralistic Judaism (2014), supports synagogues, rabbis, chavurot and individual Jews of all backgrounds who are interested in promoting a friendly and open-minded welcome to Jewish life. Rabbi Barbara Aiello is rabbinic advisor to Congregation Ner Tamid, a pluralistic congregation in Bradenton, and spiritual leader of Sinagoga Ner Tamid del Sud in Italy. She is a founding member of the International Society for Pluralistic Judaism (2014).

2013 ____ 2014

series

From the Bimah

brace their Jewish roots. 2. Pluralistic Judaism is nondenominational. The Pluralistic synagogue does not subscribe to any particular stream of Judaism, but is open to the thoughts and ideas of each denomination, blending those traditions that best apply to the community it serves. Pluralistic Judaism respects each person’s background and ascribes to the philosophy that “labels are for jelly jars, not the Jews.” 3. Pluralistic Judaism does not distinguish between those who are born Jewish and those who are Jewsby-Choice. Those who are born Jewish and those who have chosen Judaism are equal and are treated as such by the pluralistic rabbi and congregation. “Names and Noses” are a thing of the past. 4. Pluralistic Judaism is organizationally independent and is not affiliated with any Jewish organization or umbrella establishment. There is no bureaucracy or hierarchy. Each individual pluralistic synagogue organizes services, festivals and life cycle events to meet the needs of the group. 5. Pluralistic Judaism relies on “Moses Memberships,” and recommends that frugality and practicality guide financial decisions. The pluralistic synagogue applies Moses’ approach when he said, “Give when your heart is moved.” The rabbi in the pluralistic synagogue often holds employment in the secular world and serves the community on an ad hoc basis. The pluralistic synagogue shies away from ostentatious building projects and often shares space with an existing community organization, paying its way as it goes. 6. Pluralistic Judaism respects the Jewish traditions surrounding the Hebrew language. Services include the common local language of the congregants along with “lashon kodesh” (our “holy tongue”), but no one need be a Hebrew speaker or Hebrew language expert in order to participate. Hebrew transliteration is accepted as a legitimate first step on the road to Hebrew understanding. 7. Pluralistic Judaism respects halakah (Jewish law). In the pluralistic synagogue Jewish law is explained and each person makes her/his choice regarding personal observance. Pluralistic Judaism acknowledges that the word “halakah” is based in the Hebrew root “holech,” which means “to walk.” Thus halakah is a changing phenomenon, im-

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26A

February 2014

COMMENTARY

A “Frank” look at American anti-Semitism By David Benkof

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ne hundred years ago, Southern Jew Leo Frank sat in jail, a year after his conviction of murdering a 13-year-old girl and a year before his lynching. To American Jews familiar with the case over the last century, Frank’s slaying has exemplified America’s anti-Semitism. But the Frank affair has received so much attention precisely because of its rarity. Jews have been quite fortunate in America, facing less prejudice than other minorities, and certainly less than they suffered elsewhere. In 1913, the 29-year-old Frank ran a pencil factory in an Atlanta suburb when he was accused of strangling factory worker Mary Phagan. To Frank’s opponents, he was a rapacious Jew who destroyed an innocent youth. Frank’s lawyers, too, exploited Southern prejudice. They excluded black jurors and elicited racism by shifting the blame to Jim Conley, an African-American worker and witness against Frank. Frank’s lead attorney called Conley “a dirty, filthy, black, drunken, lying nigger.” This strategy made sense, as many Southern Jews were quite racist and capitalized on being above society’s lowest rung. In 1915, after a 25-day trial, Frank was convicted and sentenced to death. He lost all appeals, but new evidence implicating Conley convinced Georgia’s governor to commute the sentence to life in prison the day before Frank’s scheduled execution. Soon, an elite group of Georgians (including the local mayor and county sheriff) formed the “Knights of Mary Phagan,” seizing Frank from prison. The mob then tied a noose around his neck and hanged him. Thousands of Atlantans came to see Frank’s corpse. No lyncher was prosecuted, and for decades, souvenir shops throughout the South sold postcards depicting Frank hanging from an oak tree. Terrible stuff, sure, but completely atypical for America. Only a miniscule number of American Jews were lynched, unlike thousands of AfricanAmericans, hundreds of MexicanAmericans, and more than a thousand whites of varying ethnicities. Frank’s death is one of a handful of incidents considered evidence of a strong undercurrent of what American Jews called “rishus” (wickedness) running through American history. Some others: Until Maryland’s “Jew Bill” passed in 1826, all public officials in that state were sworn into office with a Christian oath. The debate over the bill in the first quarter of the 19th century included accusations that Jews were a “separate people” who killed Jesus and were uninterested in integration. In 1862, Union Major General

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Ulysses S. Grant issued General Order #11, which expelled Jews from parts of three Southern states, supposedly to fight the black market during the Civil War. Under community pressure, President Abraham Lincoln soon rescinded the order. In a well-publicized 1877 episode, prominent American Jewish banker Joseph Seligman was barred by Judge Henry Hilton from staying at his upstate New York hotel. Hilton justified his decision by pointing to his right “to use his property as he pleases… notwithstanding (the objections of) Moses and all his descendants.” New York City Police Commissioner Theodore Bingham wrote a 1908 article claiming that half the city’s criminals were Jewish. He painted them as “burglars, firebugs, pick-pockets, and highway robbers.” This public condemnation shocked Jewish residents into creating the New York Kehillah to try to govern the Jewish community centrally. In 1991, Orthodox Jews in Brooklyn’s Crown Heights neighborhood suffered three days of AfricanAmerican attacks after a Jewish ambulance accidentally struck a black child. Scores were injured, and two men, including a yeshiva student, died. Rioters looted Jewish stores and targeted homes with mezuzot. Some participants shouted “Death to the Jews!” But these exceptional flare-ups prove the rule of Jewish welcome in the United States. Anti-Semitism was unlike extended persecutions such as African-American chattel slavery, the Jim Crow South, Native American removal policy, the “Know-Nothing” movement targeting Irish-Americans, and the exclusion acts specifically barring Chinese and Japanese immigrants. An exception is the interwar period, when Jews faced restricted neighborhoods and hotels, quotas at elite universities, Henry Ford’s spiteful Dearborn Independent newspaper, and denunciations by radio personality Father Charles Coughlin. And sure, Americans have sometimes criticized, discriminated against, and even assaulted Jews for being different – and today’s attacks on Zionism on campus and in the media are disturbing. But most American Jews avoided the brunt of the country’s hate, in part because there was always another group even more disliked – most prominently African-Americans in the South and, later, urban areas; and Irish and other Catholics in the Northeast and Midwest. Brandeis Prof. Steve Whitfield has called American anti-Semitism “the dog (that) did not bark.” So why have so many American Jews felt besieged? Perhaps the scars of European hatred made them hyper-vigilant for signs of stigma. Also, groups like the Anti-Defamation League (originally formed in response to the Frank case) and the American Jewish Committee raise more funds by exaggerating dangers than by celebrating American hospitality. But overwhelmingly, the experience of Jews in the United States deserves more admiration and wonder than shame or fear. David Benkof has a master’s degree in modern Jewish history from Stanford. He teaches Hebrew at a yeshiva in Jerusalem and constructs the weekly Jerusalem Post Crossword Puzzle (see page 14A). He can be reached at DavidBenkof@gmail.com.

27A COMMENTARYFebruary 2014

February 2014

27A

The truth about Gaza: There is no limit on exports and imports By Elder of Ziyon, December 23, 2013

AFA (Palestinian News & Info Agency) reports: Quartet Representative Tony Blair Monday expressed deep concern regarding the grave humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, worsened by the recent storm, urging immediate intervention to avoid a humanitarian catastrophe… Blair urged all parties to act promptly to find a lasting solution to the ongoing energy crisis and encouraged the Israeli government to take the necessary steps to reopen the crossings and allow the movement of goods and people in order to rehabilitate the Gaza economy. On Wednesday, I visited both the Erez and Kerem Shalom crossings and spoke to Israeli officials there. I spend a lot of time reading about Gaza from Arabic and English news sources, but I learned a great deal from my meetings that I was unaware of. I hope to blog much more about it as I find time. But there is one crucial fact about Gaza that has never been reported anywhere, as far as I can tell. And clearly, Tony Blair is unaware of this fact as well. There is no reason whatsoever to “reopen the crossings” because Kerem Shalom can handle all of Gaza’s import and export needs. In fact, Kerem Shalom can handle more goods than all of the closed crossings ever could – combined. Crossings such as Nahal Oz and Karni were closed over the years because they weren’t secure. Those crossings were a tempting target for terrorists to attack. They can never reopen. But Kerem Shalom – a hugely expansive and extraordinarily impressive feat of engineering and logistics – was sized to handle all of Gaza’s needs if necessary. And it can do it without risking any Israeli lives. Here are all the limits of imports and exports to and from Gaza from what I learned today:

Besides a small list of “dual use” materials, Israel imposes no restrictions on Gaza imports. Even some of the “dual use” materials can be imported under certain conditions – for example, international NGOs can import construction materials. Israel allows potentially dual use items, such as CO2, to be imported on a case by case basis as well. Some said that Gaza did not have adequate pumps to handle the flooding because of Israeli restrictions. Nonsense. I asked specifically if water pumps are a “dual use” item and they are not. This was Gaza’s government not being prepared, and nothing to do with the “blockade.” If needed, Kerem Shalom can run on three shifts, 24/7. But today there isn’t the demand. All Gaza imports are arranged between Gaza businessmen and NGOs, and Israeli or other suppliers. If Gazans needs more, they can buy it. There are no practical limits on how much Gaza can import even if its economy grew dramatically. No limits on fuel. No limits on raw materials for factories (again, except dual use materials). Kerem Shalom is building new pipelines for fuel, and increasing capacity of existing pipelines, in anticipation of a potential dramatic increase of demand as a result of Egypt’s closure of Gaza. Right now, because of Hamas and PA infighting, the demand is not there and Kerem Shalom is not using close to its full capacity for fuel. There are also no limits imposed by Israel on how much Gaza can export. Really. After Hamas took over Gaza, Israel decided not to import goods from Gaza anymore – for good reason. Israel also has limited exports to PA administered areas before the peace process gets moving again. But if Gazans can find markets in Europe, the U.S. and the Arab world for goods, Israel is not stopping them at all. On the contrary, Israel is helping Gaza farmers

export goods. There have been some limited attempts to export furniture, clothing and other goods from Gaza. Right now, Gaza farmers and manufacturers are dependent on Israeli exporters and must follow international rules for exports, so there are some regulatory hurdles that must be overcome, just as with any exporter. But there is no practical limit on how much Gaza can export. (Recently, Gaza exported potatoes to Jordan, but Jordan does not want them because it wants to protect its own domestic market.) Yes, Israel has a naval blockade on Gaza, and the law of a legal blockade is that there can be no distinction between types of ships allowed. If Israel wants

to block Gaza from getting weapons – and there have been attempts to ship large amounts of weapons to Gaza by sea – then Israel must also ban commercial ships. That’s the way it is, and it cannot be changed without allowing Francops and Karine-A’s filled with weapons to be sent to Gaza. But Gaza does not need to import goods from the sea because Kerem Shalom is large enough to handle all of Gaza’s needs, even if the current construction material limits are lifted. Every single time an NGO or government calls for Israel to “lift the blockade,” they are ignoring the facts. Elder of Ziyon is one of the world’s most popular pro-Israel bloggers. His website is elderofziyon.blogspot.com.

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

CALLING ALL JEWISH BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS

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The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is collaborating with Art Center Sarasota in the area’s first exhibition showcasing art by emerging and established Israeli artists in different mediums such as painting, sculpture, photography, drawing, woodwork, video, jewelry and embroidery. The exhibition runs from March 13 through April 25, 2014, with an opening reception for the public on March 13, 5-7pm.

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28A

February 2014

COMMENTARY

Anti-Semitism, a warning sign for Europe By David Harris, Executive Director, American Jewish Committee (AJC), November 29, 2013 As I’ve mentioned before, the editors of El Pais, Spain’s most influential daily newspaper, gave me the wonderful opportunity, starting in October 2012, to become a regular contributor. Since then, I’ve had a monthly op-ed. The reach of the newspaper, I’ve learned, goes well beyond Spain, one the EU’s six largest member states, and also includes the countries of Latin America and the Spanish-speaking community in the U.S. This piece is my second in the paper on the troubling rise of anti-Semitism in Europe, most recently illustrated by a major study sponsored by the EU’s Agency for Fundamental Rights. The results should serve as another wakeup call for the need for concerted action. he European Union has had its share of daunting challenges. From sluggish growth to punishing austerity, from high levels of unemployment to fears of brain drain, and from volatile political environments to relentless migration, there are more than enough issues to keep EU and national leaders focused 24/7. And while some countries are more at risk than others, the ties that bind the 28 member states mean that no one is entirely immune from the gusty winds and storm clouds. Now, there is another issue to add to the list. Earlier this month, the EU’s Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) issued a comprehensive study on the experiences of Jews in eight of the 28 nations – Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Sweden and the United Kingdom – whose Jews comprise 90% of the EU’s total Jewish

population. Nearly 6,000 respondents took part. Confirming the findings of earlier surveys done by outside groups and local Jewish communities, it raises serious concern. That concern should not be limited to Jews, since when Europe’s Jews feel at risk, the EU as a whole is endangered in two ways. First, the EU’s laudable commitment to protecting the human dignity of each of its citizens is jeopardized. And second, the history of antiSemitism demonstrates that, ultimately, those who target Jews usually have democracy itself, including the rights of minority groups, in their crosshairs. In other words, bigotry may begin with Jews, but it rarely ends with them. Here are some of the disturbing findings from the just-published FRA report: Two-thirds of Jewish respondents consider anti-Semitism to be a problem today in their countries. Three-fourths believe the problem has gotten worse in the past five years. One-third fear a physical attack against themselves, as Jews, within the next 12 months. More than one-half claim they personally witnessed an incident where the Holocaust was denied, trivialized or exaggerated. Twenty-three percent say they at least occasionally avoid attending Jewish events or visiting Jewish sites because of safety concerns. And more than 40 percent of those surveyed in Belgium, France and Hungary indicate they have considered emigrating because of the situation. Equally troubling, to quote the study, is the following result: “A ma-

jority of the victims of anti-Semitic harassment (76%), physical violence or threats (64%), or vandalism of personal property (53%) did not report the most serious incident, namely the one that most affected the respondent, in the past five years to the police or to any other organization.” In other words, if the majority of victims of anti-Semitic incidents are not even reporting them to the authorities, then they do not have confidence in the system, fear retribution from the perpetrators, are unaware of where to go for help, or have somehow come to accept the bigoted behavior as part of the “price” of being Jewish. Whatever the explanation, it is unacceptable. Going forward, EU governments should strive mightily to ensure not only a dramatic decline in the number of anti-Semitic incidents, but also that those that do occur are reported to the proper authorities. Citizens of a democratic society should never have to feel helpless or abandoned. And it should make no difference if the anti-Semitic act comes from extreme-right, extreme-left, radical Islamic or other sources. Targeting an individual because of his or her specific group identity – in this case, as a Jew – is a potential hate crime, and should be treated as such.

AJC has devoted many years to developing response strategies to bias incidents, whether against Jews, Christians, Muslims, homosexuals, Africans or others, and certain things are clear. First, attitudes of tolerance or intolerance, respect or lack of respect, are formed primarily at home and at a young age. Second, political leadership counts. Either governments act against bigotry, both symbolically and substantively, or, too often, they end up countenancing or rationalizing it. Neutrality is not an option. Third, education, if utilized properly, can help teach respect and appreciation for difference. Otherwise, it is a lost opportunity. Fourth, religious leaders can promote interfaith dialogue and friendship or, conversely, religious obscurantism and triumphalism. Which will it be? And finally, the police and judiciary must understand the specific nature of hate crimes, collect proper data, and treat cases with the seriousness they merit. The EU’s FRA report is a wake-up call. Sleeping through it, or pretending not to hear it, is not an option. For more information, visit www.ajc. org.

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29A February 2014 FOCUS ON YOUTH

February 2014

Parenting tool: name it to tame it Education Corner

By Sara Steinmetz

“

t hurts so badly.” “She’s so mean.” “It’s so hard.” As a parent, if these day-today complaints fill your ears, you can be assured that you are not alone. However, as parents what tools can one use to combat the daily dose of grievances? What can we do to actively assist our children to confront and tackle their frustrations, disappointments and annoyances that arise? Before I actually came to recognize the psychological motto “name it to tame it” – which means that if you can define something that bothers you, you may be better able to overcome it or its negative effects – I was always able to describe my feelings and emotions

to my younger children by comparing those feelings to fruits of varying sizes. For example: “What you just accomplished made me happy like a watermelon.” “I am now frustrated like an orange, and I need you to think of what you can do make my patience bigger like a cantaloupe.” “Something happened today…and mommy’s patience is small like a grape. Please find something quiet to do while mommy rests and gets her patience back to the size of a grapefruit.” These are tangible ways in which younger kids can relate and understand the full range of emotions, both happy and sad. In fact, over time, my children have learned to respond in the same manner, sharing their feelings by the name of a fruit. This has allowed them to share the full scope of their moments of joy or sadness in a manner we can all understand. With older kids I have resorted to using the number scale of 1-10 to rate

(or name) the extent of their emotions. This idea of naming the emotion with a number allows the parent to be finely attuned to their child. “I need to study 9 for a test,” means this is a hard test which makes me feel overwhelmed. “I am happy 7 with my report card,” means that a child is satisfied with his report card but probably sees areas in which he can improve. If my child is angry 9 or 10, I might say, “What do you think we can do to move your anger from a 10 to a 7?” This is a true example of how we can use the tool “name it to tame it.” To introduce this concept to your family, perhaps you can ask your child to rate events like going to the dentist, taking out the trash, going to synagogue, playing sports and doing homework. “Name it to tame it” has certainly worked well in our family. Other tools or emotional exercises I have used when hearing an earful of negative complaints or annoyances include: Knowing that I need to set a per-

29A

sonal example for my children by showing them that I am coping with faith, patience and the courage to do something that can seem challenging or overwhelming. I try really hard to not open my mouth unless I have love in my heart. This translates itself to responding after digesting the information rather than spurting out the first (negative) words that come to mind. Realizing that I need to thank G-d for the opportunity to practice increasing my patience and compassion, and to work on improving my middot (traits), and the ability to be less impulsive with a response. As we reach out to help our child better deal with the reality of life, I wish every parent much success in avoiding exasperation and frustration, and hopefully, with these tools, to reach greater satisfaction and gratification. Sara Steinmetz is Educational Director at Chabad of Sarasota

My experience at USY International Convention By Sydney Hanan

ast month I had the opportunity to spend a week with United Synagogue Youth at its annual International Convention. Seventeen regions from all over the United States and Canada met in New Orleans for the convention. With over 800 Jewish high schoolers from across North America, I was able to meet many new Jewish people my own age. Our region’s group, Hanegev, which spans several states in the southeast United States, arrived in New Orleans on Saturday night, December 21, with 103 USYers. Then, on Sunday, we had the chance to spend some time together as a region before the others arrived. We walked into the ballroom on Sunday afternoon for Opening Ceremonies excited and cheering, and found over 800 teens just as thrilled as us. We were both overwhelmed and amazed. We could not wait to see what the week had in store for us. Monday was Yom Tikkun Olam, and everyone in the convention split into groups to do various service projects. I was placed in one of the groups working against hunger, so I spent the day in a community garden. We learned that individuals who registered and worked regularly in the garden

were given a basket of fresh fruits and vegetables every week. A group of us helped by pulling weeds, harvesting plants, planting seeds and cleaning up the garden. It was incredible being able to help the local community in New Orleans. Additionally, throughout the week, each region held several regional meetings in which they held various fundraisers to collect money for tikkun olam. Everyone was motivated by an international Coin Challenge – a competition between each of the regions to see who could collect the most money. Our region sold things like T-shirts and lanyards, held auctions, and had several other fun and creative ways of raising money. By the end, the convention raised over fifteen thousand dollars, and Hanegev won the Coin Challenge, collecting over six thousand dollars for various charities. On Tuesday, we had the opportunity to sightsee around New Orleans. We were able to select where we wanted to go – places like the aquarium, the French Quarter and Mardi Gras World. I went on a tour of Tulane University, guided by USY alumni. In addition to seeing the campus, we were able to learn about Jewish life at Tulane, which

was interesting to hear and helpful for me in thinking about colleges. Wednesday was full of activities inside the hotel. We had a musical Shacharit in the morning followed by huggim after breakfast. For my huggim, I was in a group called “Being a Giraffe,” and we learned about different ways people have stepped out of their comfort zones to help others. A couple of USYers told us about various social action projects they had started,

which was really inspirational to hear. Though the majority of the regions left on Thursday morning, Hanegev stayed in New Orleans for one more day. We spent the day visiting the French Quarter and spending more time with our group. For more information about USY or other youth groups at Temple Beth Sholom, please contact Amber Ikeman at aikeman@templebethsholomfl.org.

Students use Food Festival info for display

ish

Fe d

er at

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

w. Th e w w at e lin on er st

say, “That was so good; I would have never tried that at home.” Following the festival, which was presented to the school community, the students collected their data on the students’ most favored foods and then put together a display for parents highlighting their findings. Along with their data, they again prepared samples of the delicious creations and offered them to visitors during the annual winter Learning-on-Display event Kabobs are the main focus of these fourth-grade girls held one week later. as they prepare samples for fellow students to taste-test

Sophie Fedder and Jordan Lonstein prepare their healthy and nutritious foods for a school-wide taste-testing project

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

tudents in Temple Beth Sholom Schools’ 4th and 5th grade class were given a mission to find healthy snacks and meals of nutritional value that would add value to a school lunch menu. They researched foods and created a list of appetizers, breads, main dishes and desserts that students may enjoy eating. Next, they needed to focus test the products and collect actual data from a control group of their school peers. The entire school was invited to taste-test a variety of healthy dishes at the Food Festival. The teachers noted that it was such a joy to hear students

30A

February 2014

FOCUS ON YOUTH

Students enjoy giving during the holidays

Be a part of the Daddy-Daughter Dance

By Sue Huntting, Temple Sinai Religious School Director

emple Emanu-El Religious School’s Social Committee sends this important message to daughters and families in SarasotaManatee: The Daddy-Daughter Dance is returning to Temple Emanu-El! This biannual event is one of the best and most special nights of the year, and we hope you will be a part of it. On Sunday, February 9 at 5:30 p.m., girls and their fathers, grandpas, and special friends who love them most will enjoy an evening of music and dancing featuring a makeup artist, nail salon, professional father-daughter portraits, delicious and elegant food, a long-stemmed rose for every daugh-

ter, a “How Well Do You Know Your Daughter?” contest, amazing Chinese raffle prizes and much more. You definitely want to mark your calendar for this unbelievably special occasion. The cost for the Daddy-Daughter Dance is $18 per dad/special friend with paid reservations received by February 3, or $30 at the door. Reservations may be made by sending payment, name of the adults and girls, and the girls’ ages to Temple Emanu-El Daddy-Daughter Dance, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232. For more information, please call 941.379.1997 or 941.356.3006.

Jayme Rudd, Jordan Cohen and Danielle Rudd enjoyed Temple Emanu-El’s second biannual Daddy-Daughter Dance

Aubrianna was delighted to receive a rose from her dad at Temple Emanu-El’s second biannual Daddy-Daughter Dance

t a time of year when most children only think about receiving gifts, Temple Sinai students learned about giving and gave to others. Our congregation and families have always been quite generous. This year I wanted to take it up a notch and have our students engage in three projects that directly touched the lives of other children. The first project involved harnessing the current popularity of making Rainbow Loom bracelets. These handmade multi-colored woven rubber band bracelets are popular among girls and boys. With the library set up as “Rainbow Loom Central,” students made dozens of bracelets which were donated to the Sarasota Y Youth Shelter. During Chanukah, the school and temple participated in the “Eighth Night for Ethan” campaign which raised awareness and financial support for Ethan Kadish, struck by lightning last summer at a Jewish camp in Indiana. The school sent $200 to HelpHOPELive, a non-profit that helps families with the medical costs associated with catastrophic injury.

The last project was tied to a Sunday morning family program about Havdalah to which everyone came wearing pajamas. Families brought new pajamas and/or books to donate through the Pajama Project, an organization that provides these items to children in need, many of whom are

Josh Cohen and Ava Small work on a Rainbow Loom bracelet that was donated to the Sarasota Y Youth Shelter

waiting and hoping to be adopted. Thirty-five pair of pajamas and books were collected and delivered to the Sarasota Y Schoolhouse Link program which helps students in transition attend and succeed in school. Knowing our kids usually spend this time of year thinking and talking about what they want, it was great to be able to change the conversation to include what others need and how their actions could lift the spirits of others. In this way, the Sinai students were able to live the Jewish value of tikkun olam, making Temple Sinai Students model the Rainbow Loom bracelets that the world a better place. were donated to the Sarasota Y Youth Shelter

“FOCUS ON YOUTH” PHOTO OF THE MONTH

Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade students with the pajamas and books they donated

APRIL 5TH, 2014 ~ 7:00–8:30PM Turtle Beach Pavilion, 8918 Midnight Pass Road Free; RSVP required (online) TheJewishFederation.org/events.aspx

Temple Emanu-El teens Allison Kramer and Rachel Towe knead dough at a challah-baking workshop and exploration of Shabbat during Confirmation class

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

Join the community at the Turtle Beach Pavilion for an evening of music, dancing and familyfriendly fun! Together we will enjoy crafts, singing and dessert as we observe Havdalah (a beautiful ceremony marking the end of Shabbat and the beginning of a new week).

Havdalah

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

The Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota FL 34232

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

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

31A LIFE CYCLE

February 2014

ANNIVERSARIES th

70 Sheldon & Martha Gensler Temple Beth Sholom 45th Sandy & Lynn Glassman Temple Sinai 40th Jeff & Lauren Pearl Temple Sinai 40th Ronald & JoAnn Spiegel Temple Emanu-El

40 Doug & Marianne Weiss Temple Sinai 20th Robert & Marla Katz Temple Beth Sholom 20th Chris & Jill Malkin Temple Sinai

B’NAI MITZVAH

Zachary Timmons, son of Andy & Jaimie, February 8, Temple Emanu-El Xavier Koffman, son of David & Donna, February 8, Temple Beth Sholom Sam Zelin, son of David & Bonnie, March 1, Temple Beth Sholom

IN MEMORIAM LuVerne Conway, 95, of Sarasota, Dec. 12 Faye Baron Dorfman, 88, of Sarasota, formerly of New York, Dec. 9 Harold B. Fein, M.D., 89, of Sarasota, Dec. 4 Robert Martin, 79, of Sarasota, Dec. 11 Florence Small, 89, of Sarasota, Dec.14

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Please submit your life cycle events (births, B’nai Mitzvah, anniversaries) to jewishnews18@ gmail.com. Photos are appreciated; please email as JPGs at 300dpi. Advertise in The Jewish News and reach an established and powerful demographic of over 9,000 homes in Sarasota-Manatee. Call Robin Leonardi at 941.552.6307

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An informational presentation for long-term planning from professionals. Topics include financial and legal planning. Also hear from representatives of Tidewell Hospice and Palms Funeral Home & Cremation. Free event. Registration required: www.jfedsrq.org/events.aspx The Jewish Federation, Jerusalem Room 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, Fl. 34232

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

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This is an opportunity for singles and couples (ages 50s-70s) to meet old and new friends. Join us from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Apollonia Grill, 8235 Cooper Creek Blvd., University Park. There will be a cash bar; light snacks offered. RSVP at www.jfedsrq.org/ events.aspx. For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org.

thursday, january 30 Author Series: Stuart E. Eizenstat Sponsored by

Stuart E. Eizenstat is a senior diplomat of international reputation. His book, The Future of the Jews: How Global Forces are Impacting the Jewish People, Israel, and Its Relationship with the United States, surveys the major geopolitical, economic and security challenges facing the world in general, and the Jewish world and the United States in particular. He also discusses the enduring nature of and challenges to the strategic alliance between the U.S. and Israel. Eizenstat’s provocative analysis will be of interest to everyone concerned about the future of Jews worldwide and the United States’ role in a world that is confronting unprecedented simultaneous, cataclysmic changes. Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, this event begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Zell Room on the Federation Campus, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Tickets: $10. To RSVP or for more information, visit www.TheJewishFederation.org or contact Len Steinberg at 941.552.6301 or lsteinberg@jfedsrq.org. To pre-order your copy of Stuart Eizenstat’s book, please call Bookstore1Sarasota at 941.365.7900.

friday, january 31 The Mothers Circle Gathering Sponsored by

The Mothers Circle Gathering is a one-time informational session that teaches participants the basics of Shabbat practices. We will bake challah, learn the meaning of the Shabbat blessings, and learn about the four elements to the Havdalah ceremony. This free event takes place from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the Jewish Federation Campus, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. To RSVP or for more information, please contact Flora Oynick at foynick@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2114.

Youth Group Shabbat

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Defiant Requiem tells the little-known story of the Nazi concentration camp, Terezin. Led by imprisoned conductor Rafael Schächter, the inmates of Terezin fought back...with art and music. Through hunger, disease and slave labor, the Jewish inmates of Terezin held onto their humanity by staging plays, composing opera, and using paper and ink to record the horrors around them. Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. A post-film discussion will feature survivors of the Terezin camp. The screening takes place at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Tickets: $10. RSVP required. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.jfedsrq.org/events.aspx or call 941.552.6301.

“Lessons from the Mosque: What a Jewish Woman Learned from Muslim Friends” Over the past four years, Dr. Enid Bloch has been deeply involved in efforts to foster trust and understanding between the Jewish and Muslim communities in Western New York. She has an entirely different view of Islam from the frightening stereotypes which fill American media. She is founder and editor of Internet magazine Jewish Muslim Friendship in Western New York, a frequent speaker at interfaith events, photographer for Kulanu, an organization dedicated to supporting isolated emerging Jewish communities around the globe, in addition to teaching at universities and colleges. Hear Dr. Bloch at 10:30 a.m. at Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Road. For more information, visit www.chj-sarasota.org or call 941.929.7771.

Shabbat luncheon honoring Howard Rosen Please join Chabad of Sarasota for a Shabbat luncheon honoring Howard Rosen, a man who has spent 15 years as the official treasurer of Chabad of Sarasota. To convey how much we treasure our treasurer, a special Shabbat lunch will be held following the Shabbat morning services, at approximately 12:30 p.m. at 7700 Beneva Road, Sarasota. Join us as we honor Howard for his dedication and service, and wish him and his dear wife Shirley the blessings of long healthy years together. Although all are welcome to join free of charge, we welcome sponsorships for $100. Advance reservations are necessary. To make reservations or to sponsor the luncheon, please call 941.925.0770.

Game Night with Italian Dinner The Men’s Club of Temple Sinai is hosting a night of fun and games. Bring your group and play poker, bridge, canasta or a board game of your choosing. Mah Jongg groups welcome, too. A tasty Italian dinner will be served. The fun begins at 6:00 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota. Cost: $15 for temple members; $20 for guests. For more information or to RSVP, call Gene at 941.468.6276.

Sponsored by

Sing along to your favorite tunes or learn new ones at this fun, upbeat, youth-led service, which takes place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. An oneg will follow. For more information, contact Amber Ikeman at 941.343.2103 or aikeman@jfedsrq.org.

For a continuously updated calendar, visit www.TheJewishFederation.org NOW OPEN!

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

Sponsored by

“To Be a Jew in the Free World: The Struggle for Identity in Modern Times” is the new six-week Jewish Learning Institute course. What is the price tag of freedom, affluence, and the escape from anti-Semitism? The course examines the personal and religious struggles of individuals and communities as they faced the challenges of changing times – stories that provoke debate and shed insight into what it means to live as a Jew today. Cost: $74. The course takes place on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. at Chabad of Venice, 2169 S. Tamiami Trail. For more information, contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabadofvenice.com.

The stage of musical Jews contains extraordinarily talented men and women, often from impoverished backgrounds, who rose to the heights of public acclaim by inspiring and entertaining the world. Each one of these accomplished Jews has given immeasurable pleasure to diverse cultures hungry for beauty and melody. The accomplishments of Irving Berlin are described in the second class of a six-month course covering the beautiful music of Jews that transcends the bounds of age, race, nationality and religion. Join us at 2:00 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 713 South Orange Avenue, Burns Square, Sarasota. Cost: $5 per adult; $3 per student; healthy kosher refreshments included. For more information or to RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

Lunch and a Movie

Rosh Chodesh Society – The Woman in the Moon

Join the SaBra Chapter of Hadassah at 11:00 a.m. Mediterraneo Ristorante Italiano, 1970 Main St., Sarasota, for a delightful lunch. After our midday feast, we’ll settle in at Hollywood 20 to enjoy an afternoon movie. For further details, contact Joy Siegel at 941.306.5941 or jesiegel@hotmail.com, or Claudia Dombrow at 941.306.5514 or cdombrow613@gmail.com.

N’shei Chabad Women invites all women to attend the Rosh Chodesh Society which includes a talk entitled “The Woman in the Moon Kabbalistic Insights into Femininity and the Jewish Calendar.” This lesson will delve into the mysterious quality of femininity, which is metaphorically associated with the moon, and discuss how women can express the feminine aspects of their personality to beautify the world. Following the class, women will have the opportunity to enjoy a demonstration on how to make salmon three ways by Chef Maish (Allie) Fraidowitz. A thank you to Chabad’s First Lady, Anne Stein, for underwriting the course. Join us at 7:15 p.m. at Chabad of Sarasota, 7700 Beneva Road. Cost: Rebbetzin Circle members, free; N’shei Women members, $10; nonmembers, $12. For additional information or to RSVP, call 941.925.0770 or email info@ chabadofsarasota.com.

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

Temple Beth Sholom Interesting Lives Norman Olshansky has led a varied and adventurous life as the former Anti-Defamation League Director of the Virginia/North Carolina Region. On behalf of the Jewish people he worked with the Ku Klux Klan, Jerry Falwell, the FBI, the Department of Defense, and Menachem Begin, the sixth Prime Minister of Israel (1977-1983). Come and hear stories and more from a man who has been on the inside of historic occasions. This free presentation begins at 1:15 p.m. in the Band/Desenberg Chapel of Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call Arlene Hamburger at 941.921.2554.

Miniversity - The Book of Job This course meets at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, February 5, 12, 19 and 26 at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Presented by Dr. Jerry Rosenthal, Session I introduces the character of Job and an old folk tale, the Fable of Job; Session II focuses on the differences between the folk tale and the account found in the Bible; Session III explores how the visitors veer from friendly understanding to impatience and then antagonism regarding Job; and Session IV presents views of other prominent scholars about the meaning of Job and addresses questions raised during the course of the sessions. Cost: $5 (free for TBI members). For more information, contact the TBI office at info@tbi-lbk.org or 941.383.3428.

THE UROLOGY TREATMENT CENTER

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

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Sarasota Concert Association presents the 2014

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JEWISH HAPPENINGS

February 2014

Please Join Us Temple Beth Sholom Sunday March 23, 2014 5:00PM

Rhythm and Jews and dinner at Temple Sinai Temple Sinai presents its popular Rhythm and Jews Service at 6:00 p.m., preceded at 5:15 p.m. with a Welcome Reception. Accompanied by The Bruno Trio on drums, a bass and synthesizer, Rabbi Huntting and Chazzan Abramson (on guitar) create an upbeat fusion of Israeli, Chasidic, American and Middle Eastern sounds that delight young and old alike. A tasty Shabbat dinner follows. Cost: $20 for temple members; $25 for guests; $30 for a family with children. Temple Sinai is located at 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota. RSVP to 941.924.1802. For more information, visit www.templesinai-sarasota.org.

saturday, february 8 SRQUSY Bowling Night Sponsored by

Howard Tevlowitz

The Temple Beth Sholom Men’s Club Cordially invites you to “Club Sholom” to pay tribute to our “Man of the Year,” Howard Tevlowitz, Executive Director of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee Gourmet Kosher Dinner catered by Michael’s on East Entertainment provided by West Coast Black Theater Troupe International Jewish Music by Freylekh SPonSorSHiPS are availaBle

For questions or additional information please contact Program Chair Paul Rabin 941-927-0901 paulconslt@aol.com or Men’s Club President Gerry Ronkin 941-809-5195 gronkin@templebethsholomfl.org Temple Beth Sholom • 1050 South Tuttle Avenue • Sarasota, FL 34237

140 kosher characters

friday, february 7

twitter.com/jfedsrq

Morocco With the girls!

Have a ball going bowling under blacklights with SRQUSY – a youth group for Jewish high school students. The event takes place from 9:00 to 11:00 p.m. at AMF Gulf Gate Lanes, 7221 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Cost: $16 for USY members and 8th grade Kadima members; $18 for nonmembers. Price includes two hours of unlimited bowling and shoe rental. RSVP by January 31 to Amber Ikeman at aikeman@templebethsholomfl.org.

Klezmer concert Under the direction of Stan Katz who, in the era of big bands, traveled and played with the best of them, The Katz Klezmer Combo will present an afternoon of klezmer music and history. The six-piece combo of professional musicians has been together for five years, entertaining and informing residents of Sarasota and environs. The event takes place from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Road. Cost: $18. For more information, visit www.chj-sarasota.org or call 941.929.7771.

Italian-Jewish evening with Tombola Congregation Ner Tamid invites the community to its annual Italian-Jewish event. The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with a Havdalah service followed by Chef Teresa’s authentic Italian dinner, and then it’s “Tombola” – Italian Bingo with prizes galore and a 50/50 raffle. The event takes place at The Lodge, 4802 B 26th St. W., Bradenton. The cost is $15. For reservations, call Elaine at 941.755.1231 or email shalom@nertamidflorida.org.

Annual Dinner Dance honoring Cantor Alan Cohn Every year, Temple Beth El Bradenton honors a congregant who has contributed to the richness of its community. This year we have the honor of celebrating the life and contributions of our beloved Cantor Alan Cohn. He has blessed us with his beautiful cantorial voice for ten years. He is also a wonderful teacher and mentor. Please join the community at 6:00 p.m. at Renaissance on 9th to honor this special man. All are welcome to be part of this wonderful evening. For more information or to RSVP (by January 30), please call the temple office at 941.755.4900, Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to noon.

sunday, february 9 “Maccabiah Games” with Chalutzim Sponsored by

Join Chalutzim, a youth group for students in grades 3-5, for a pizza lunch and an afternoon of fun and games! The event takes place from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Cost: $5 for Chalutzim members; $8 for nonmembers. RSVP by February 3 to Jess Zimmerman at Jessica. zimmerman12@ncf.edu.

Empty Your Closets Sale Support the elder advocacy services and Jewish programming of the Al Katz Center by emptying your closets. Volunteers are needed to mark items on February 7 and to sell them on February 9 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 713 South Orange Avenue, Burns Square, Sarasota. Through its advocacy services, provided free-of-charge to elders in need, the Center has assisted dozens of families. Items will be received on February 6 and 7 between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Please contribute gently-used clothing, furnishings, decorative items, and toys. For more information, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

Celebratory Brunch and Tower Shower Interested? Please contact Ilene Fox at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org

The SaBra Chapter of Hadassah invites you to a Celebratory Brunch and Tower Shower for the Sarah Wetsman Davidson Hospital Tower and to honor those who have contributed to its completion. The guest speaker is Nancy Wiadro, Hadassah National Board Member. Entertainment provided by Betty Silberman, professional cabaret singer. The brunch begins at 11:00 a.m. at Michael’s On East. Minimum donation of $250; or become a Chai Society Member for a minimum of $180 annually. Couvert: $48. RSVP by February 3 to Lee Ruggles at 941.924.1338 or lruggles.sabra@gmail.com.

Falafel with Yoav & PARveDise ice cream

MAY 2014

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

Join us at noon at The Chabad House (5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton) and enjoy a terrific kosher falafel lunch and delicious non-dairy ice cream from our very own soft-serve PARveDise ice cream machine. This month’s event features a talk by Merrill Oltchik about Jews and sports in the late ’30s and ’40s. Cost: $5 for all-you-can-eat falafel; $2 for ice cream. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@chabadofbradenton.com.

JEWISH HAPPENINGS 5B February 2014

February 2014

tuesday, february 11 YAD Happy Hour Join us from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Libby’s Cafe + Bar (1917 S. Osprey Ave., Sarasota) for a happy hour of Young Jewish Adults ages 21-45. Network and schmooze! For more information, contact Jessi Sheslow at jsheslow@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2109.

Mitzvah Knitting Group at Temple Emanu-El Are you a knitter or crocheter interested in using your talent to brighten the lives of others while making new friends? If so, please come to the Mitzvah Knitting Group sponsored by Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood at 10:00 a.m. at the temple, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. We gather monthly to craft and socialize, and our beautiful handiwork is donated to needy families in Sarasota-Manatee and in Israel. Bring your needles or crochet hook and a favorite pattern – we’ll supply the yarn and great company! No cost. For more information, please call Judy Sauertieg at 941.349.5260.

March 16-21

2014

Presented in partnership with

20 14

Newspaper Sponsor

“Judaism and End-of-Life Decisions” Rabbi Harold Caminker concludes his three-week adult education miniseries with “What Happens When I Die?” The class, which begins at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Beth El Bradenton, 4200 32nd Street W., is free and open to the community. For more information, please call the synagogue office Tuesday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at 941.755.4900.

The United States, Iran and Israel: What Next? The United States embarked on an historically unprecedented engagement with Iran at a moment when the Middle East has never seemed more volatile and unpredictable. What has it achieved? Join us as journalist and author Warren Kozak interviews acclaimed Middle East expert Dr. Michael Doran, who served as a deputy assistant secretary of defense and a senior director at the National Security Council. The event begins at 8:15 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Cost: $5 (free for TBI members). For more information, contact the TBI office at info@tbi-lbk.org or 941.383.3428.

THE JEWISH CARDINAL Tuesday, March 18

7:00 PM – Federation Campus Wednesday, March 19

12:30 PM – Lakewood Ranch Cinemas 7:00 PM – Temple Beth Israel

ARTICLE OF HOPE Wednesday, March 19

3:00 PM – Temple Beth Israel Wednesday, March 19

7:00 PM – Lakewood Ranch Cinemas

wednesday, february 12 Sophisticated Ladies Style and Samba The Temple Beth Sholom Sisterhood will present Sophisticated Ladies Style and Samba, its fourth annual Luncheon, Auction and Fashion Show, showcasing the latest trends in clothing from Evelyn and Arthur, and dancing by the Dynasty Dance Club. This event raises money for Paver Religious School, Camp Ramah Darom scholarships, and communitywide youth groups. Guests will have the opportunity to bid on our extensive array of items displayed at the auction, including jewelry and gift certificates. The event kicks off at noon in the Madeline L. Sainer Social Hall at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Tickets are $45 and include wine and Michael’s On East’s Special Salad. RSVP is required. Please contact Lila Beychok-Boyer at 941.223.8494 to RSVP or to become a sponsor.

March 16-18, 2014

New Orleans

RETURN OF THE VIOLIN Sunday, March 16

4:00 PM – Federation Campus

DISOBEDIENCE

Tuesday, March 18

Sunday, March 16

3:00 PM – Federation Campus

7:00 PM – Federation Campus

Friday, March 21

Monday, March 17

10:30 AM – Kobernick House

7:00 PM – Temple Sinai

BETHLEHEM

GOD’S NEIGHBORS

Monday, March 17

3:00 PM – Federation Campus

7:00 PM – Federation Campus

Thursday, March 20

7:00 PM – Federation Campus

3:00 PM – Federation Campus

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

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

Wanna go?

SINGLE TICKET: $10 FESTIVAL PASS: $54 (INCLUDES ONE SCREENING OF EACH FILM) PATRON PASS: $72 (INCLUDES ONE SCREENING OF EACH FILM WITH RESERVED SEATING)

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

WWW.JFEDSRQ.ORG/FILMFESTIVAL.ASPX OR CALL JENNIFER NEW AT 941.552.6304.

www.TheJewishFederation.org

JFedsRq

The Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota 941.371.4546 TheJewishFederation.org

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

February 2014

BLacKtROuPE

WEst cOast WORLD PREMIERE!

thEatRE

CREATED AND ADAPTED BY NATE JACOBS

thursday, february 13 JFCS Holocaust Survivors Support Group Sponsored by

GEt tIcKEts NOW! 941-366-1505 WBttsRQ.ORG

GATHERING Friday, January 31 9:30-11:30 AM @ The Jewish Federation 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota

The Mothers Circle Gathering is a one-time informational session that teaches participants the basics of Shabbat practices. We will make challah, learn the meaning of the Shabbat blessings, and learn about the four elements to the “Havdalah” ceremony.

All survivors are invited to attend these monthly gatherings of friendship, camaraderie and support. Find out the latest on Claims Conference information, enjoy a light nosh and a lively discussion on “Your Personal Traditions.” The group meets from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at JFCS, South County Human Services Center, 19503 West Villages Parkway, North Port (next door to the State College of Florida). Sponsored by Jewish Family & Children’s Service, Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Community Services, The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee and the Claims Conference. To RSVP or for more information, contact Jan Alston at 941.366.2224 x172 or jalston@jfcs-cares.org.

Hadassah Annual Education Day Join us for “Every Beat Counts: Hadassah’s Heart Health Program” from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Zell Room on the Jewish Federation Campus, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc., developed this national program to engage women by educating them on health from the perspective of healthy life choices, exploring the differences in heart disease between men and women, and promoting wellness, disease prevention, and screenings for the purpose of early detection and treatment. A light lunch will be served. Cost: $15. RSVP by February 10 to Nancy Mizrahi at 941.923.1790. For more information, please contact Lee Ruggles at 941.924.1338 or lruggles.sabra@ gmail.com.

Sephardic Geography The rich Sephardic culture is woven into Israeli life across the board, but is virtually unfamiliar to many American Jews. Join the Al Katz Center for the second of a six-month series on an enlightening journey through centuries of time and multiple continents to learn about and experience the depth and breadth of Sephardic Judaism and its remarkable influence upon all of Jewish life through today, including customs, geography, history and influences on Judaism. Join us at 7:00 p.m. at 713 South Orange Avenue, Burns Square, Sarasota. Cost: $5 per adult; $3 per student; healthy kosher refreshments included. For more information or to RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

FREE EVENT RSVP: www.jfedsrq.org/events.aspx Questions? Contact Flora Oynick at 941.343.2114 or email foynick@jfedsrq.org.

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

friday, february 14

Interfaith

Lion of Judah and Pomegranate Luncheon Sponsored by

Passover Seder

Join us for a Chocolate Luncheon featuring Rabbi Deborah Prinz, author of On the Chocolate Trail, a Delicious Adventure Connecting Jews, Religions, History, Travel, Rituals and Recipes to the Magic of Cacao. This event is open to Lions of Judah, Lions of Judah from other communities and Pomegranates, and begins at 11:30 a.m. at The Resort at Longboat Key Club, 220 Sands Point Road. Tickets start at $75. To RSVP or for more information, contact Ilene Fox at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org.

Thursday March 27, 2014 6:00 - 8:00 PM MICHAEL’S ON EAST

“Chocolate Shabbat” at Temple Emanu-El

LEADERS Rabbi Howard Simon Pastor Joey Mimbs MUSICAL DIRECTORS Cantor Marci Vitkus Pastor Randy Burt Registration opens February 1, 2014

TICKETS $36/adult, $18/under 12

PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

TABLE SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR $540 (includes 10 tickets and reserved seating; $180 deductible)

A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-435-7352 WITHIN THE STATE. OUR REGISTRATION NUMBER IS SC-00449. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.

For more information, please contact Jessi Sheslow at 941.343.2109 or jsheslow@jfedsrq.org

Synagogue might not seem like the most romantic Valentine’s Day destination, but Temple Emanu-El will tempt you with a special Shabbat featuring Rabbi Deborah Prinz talking about that most important Valentine’s Day staple: chocolate! Rabbi Prinz will share wisdom and stories from her book On the Chocolate Trail, speaking about the Jews’ littleknown role in the chocolate trade and the Jewish influence on the chocolate we know and love today. A special oneg featuring chocolate treats follows. This free event begins at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For more information, call 941.371.2788.

saturday, february 15 Chabad Film Fest Join Chabad for a movie night to watch The House on Garibaldi Street, a film depicting Eichmann’s capture. Enjoy hot dogs, chips and drinks. The screening begins at 7:30 p.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. Admission is $3; admission and food is $5. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@ chabadofbradenton.com.

JEWISH HAPPENINGS 7B February 2014 sunday, february 16

February 2014

tuesday, february 18

Jewish Food Festival There’s plenty to enjoy at Venice’s biggest food event! This year’s food festival features Aunt Harriet’s “Delicious Knishes” plus Chef Billy’s corned beef and pastrami sandwiches, matzo ball soup, brisket platter, blintzes and pickle bar. And don’t forget dessert with our talented ladies’ home-baked treats. Enjoy music while you dine in the comfortable sitdown tent cafe, or get quick ’n easy takeout. There will also be a flea market, jewelry sale, raffles and a variety of vendors. Bring the family for a day of good food and fun from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Jewish Congregation of Venice, 600 N. Auburn Rd. Free admission and parking. For more information, contact Beata Hulliger at 941.484.2022 or jcvenice2@gmail.com, or visit www.jewishcongregationofvenice.org.

Faith to Faith: Christians and Jews Working Together for Israel Hear the experiences of internationally-known leaders with interfaith work and leave the evening with specific knowledge about how to be the best advocate for Israel. This event takes place from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Church of Hope, 1560 Wendell Kent Road, Sarasota. Suggested donation: $10. For more information, contact Jessi Sheslow at jsheslow@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2109. To register, visit www. jfedsrq.org/events.aspx.

JFCS Transitions Support Group Sponsored by

Jewish War Veterans meeting Join Sarasota Co. Post 172 Jewish War Veterans of the USA at its monthly meeting at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Breakfast with lox and bagels begins at 9:15 a.m. The business meeting will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by speaker Kayla Niles, who will speak with video on the Jordan River Village Camp in Israel. This camp is for children of all religions and ethnic backgrounds. For further information, contact Stuart Krupkin, Commander, at 941.342.3413.

“Searching for Schwartzes” Mike Schwartz’s father arrived in America in 1927, so finding information about the Schwartz family in New York should have been quite straightforward – or so he thought. But with over 18,000 Schwartzes listed in New York City in the 1930 census, he needed some innovative ways to find them all. Mike will describe some of the atypical techniques he used and the strokes of pure luck he needed to find his Schwartz relatives. Attendance is free at this Jewish Genealogical Society of Southwest Florida meeting. Everyone is welcome at 1:00 p.m. at Kobernick House, 1951 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota. For more information, contact Kim Sheintal at 941.921.1433 or klapshein@aol.com, or visit http://jgsswf.org/.

The First Venice Community Torah Scroll Join us in writing history as we inaugurate the first new Venice Torah scroll. The event features the completion of Torah writing by the scribe (at 1:30 p.m.), dancing with the Torah under a chuppah and through the streets of Venice (at 3:00 p.m.), a beautiful reception, live music and entertainment. This free event takes place at Chabad of Venice, 2169 S. Tamiami Trail. For more information, please contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabadofvenice.com.

“The Three Waves of Jewish Migration to China” Dr. Liliane Willens, the author of Stateless in Shanghai, was born of Russian Jewish parents in Shanghai, China, where she attended a French lycée. She and her family, all stateless, experienced World War II under the Japanese military occupation, the Chinese civil war between the nationalist government and the communists, the arrival of the victorious People’s Liberation Army, and the subsequent establishment of the People’s Republic of China. Dr. Willens will share her experiences and learning in this fascinating talk, and will sign books. The event begins at 2:00 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Cost: $5 at the door. For more information, please contact Temple Emanu-El Adult Education Chair Beth Ann Salzman at bethanny2@comcast.net.

The death of a spouse, significant other or life partner is perhaps the most difficult experience that one can have. Once the initial intense period of grief has subsided, how do you recreate your life and go on? This group is an opportunity to be with others and stay connected socially. The group will meet from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. at the JFCS Main Campus, 2688 Fruitville Road, Sarasota. No fee, but preregistration is required. Contact Beverly Mishkin at 941.366.2224 x119 or bmishkin@jfcs-cares.org. The Transitions Support Group is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

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

JFCS Mind Set Classes Classes meet from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from February 18-27 at JFCS, 2688 Fruitville Road, Sarasota. Mind Set Classes offer an organized approach to everyday living and provide activities to stimulate memory and thinking. The cost is $40 for the four sessions over two weeks. Pre-registration is required and pre-assessment may be required. Contact Glenda Pinkston at 941.366.2224 x131 or gpinkston@ jfcs-cares.org.

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February 2014

wednesday, february 19

JEWISH HAPPENINGS fri-sat, february 21-22

Idelson Library Film Matinee Series

William and Judith Freund Scholar-in-Residence

Re-Emerging: The Jews of Nigeria, a 2012 documentary (93 minutes), is a story of faith, belief, ancestry and community. It is a journey into the heart of Igboland and into the lives and culture of the Igbo people. The film introduces the world to the many synagogues that dot the land, and a handful of passionate, committed and diverse characters. It tells the story of the Igbo people of Nigeria who believe they were once Jews. Refreshments, including popcorn, will be served. Marty Cohn will lead a question and answer session after the film. The screening begins at 1:15 p.m. in the Madeline L. Sainer Social Hall at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Cost: $3 for temple members; $5 for nonmembers. For more information, please call 941.955.8121.

Everyone is invited to hear the Appleman Professor of Midrash and Interreligious Studies at The Jewish Theological Seminary, Prof. Burton Visotzky. His topics include “I Was a Spy for God” or “What the Stories of the Rabbis of Old Teach Us Today” during the 7:00 p.m. Friday night services; “From Cairo to Qatar, Oman and Beyond: Recent Developments in Muslim-Jewish Dialogue” during Saturday 9:00 a.m. services; and a Shabbat Shmooze Q&A at 12:30 p.m. These events are free and open to the public, and take place at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. For more information, please call Elaine Tedesco at 941.552.2780.

thursday, february 20

friday, february 21 Tot Shabbat and Oneg

Sponsored by

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

“Traditional Shabbat Comfort Foods” Judaism and comfort foods are inextricably intertwined from antiquity through the present. The Al Katz Center is committed to the principle of feeding the body and Jewish soul with healthy kosher foods in order to enhance Jewish identity and safeguard human health. Recipes are provided and exchanged. Vegetarian and vegan options are always available. The comfort food experience can be very relaxing, motivating and healthy. Enjoy good food, good music and good conversation in an aesthetic setting. Join us at 5:30 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 713 South Orange Avenue, Burns Square, Sarasota. Cost: $7 per adult; $3 per student. For more information or to RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.

Cteen “Truth or Care” Cteen is a Jewish teen club that compacts exhilarating fun and meaningful projects into a program that’s thrilling and uniting. Cteen events happen at least monthly, but the moments last a lifetime. Bystanders are bygones! Stand in line with the greatest Jewish leaders of all time who never stood idly by. Bring on the Purim spirit with some festive kosher treats and surprises. This month’s humanitarian focus is Inmates and Partners with Aleph. This free event begins at 7:30 p.m. at Chabad of Venice, 2169 S. Tamiami Trail. For more information, please contact Rivka Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rivka@chabadofvenice.com.

Sarasota Jewish Chorale performance The Sarasota Jewish Chorale will sing excerpts from its acclaimed cantata, Esther’s Story, written by Brenda Lederman and Rivka Chatman. Popular songs included in the performance are Bei Mir Bistu Shein, Sisu Et Yerushalayim and Shmelke’s Nigun, under the direction of conductor Linda Tucker. The event begins at 7:45 p.m. at Plymouth Harbor, 700 John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. Open to residents and guests of Plymouth Harbor at no charge. For more information, contact Susan Skovronek at 941.355.8011 or asuskov2002@yahoo.com.

An age-appropriate yet meaningful interactive Shabbat experience for the youngest ones begins at 5:30 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota. Rabbi Huntting and Chazzan Abramson have created a service that has children and the adults who love them on their feet and clapping along. This quarterly service is ideal for children in preschool through 2nd grade. Enjoy story time, sing-a-longs, and marching with the Torah. For more information, please call 941.926.9462 or email laura@ templesinai-sarasota.org.

Men’s Club Shabbat and dinner The members of the vibrant Men’s Club of Temple Sinai will be participating in the Shabbat service. Come and hear about the good work they do for the temple and the community-at-large. A Welcome Reception begins at 5:15 p.m. and the service begins at 6:00 p.m. A dinner of Middle Eastern cuisine follows with live klezmer music entertainment. Cost for dinner: $20 for temple members; $25 for guests. RSVP to Zvi at 941.342.0984. Temple Sinai is located at 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota. For more information, visit www.templesinai-sarasota.org.

“First Came Marriage” Susan Marks, Associate Professor of Religion at New College, finds that in the early days of Judaism, most weddings did not include familiar rituals, let alone a rabbi. Marks, the author of First Came Marriage, combines ritual and historic perspectives to examine the process by which early Jews married and the ways rabbis minimized, elaborated or codified the practices. Join the Congregation for Humanistic Judaism at 7:30 p.m. at Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Road. Cost: $5 requested donation for non-CHJ members; free for CHJ members. For more information, please call 941.929.7771 or visit www.chj-sarasota.org.

urns Ret

Keyboard Conversations® SPECIAL THANKS TO PRITCHARDS PIANOS

JFCS Holocaust Survivors Support Group

WITH

JEFFREY SIEGEL

by George Stevens, Jr.

American pianist Jeffrey Siegel’s concert-withcommentary format in which lively, captivating remarks precede virtuoso performances of piano masterpieces.

Tuesday, April 1: MISTRESSES & MASTERPIECES

Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall

December 11 thru February 22

PROUDLY PRESENTED BY

Works of passion, love, and longing inspired by “significant others” in the lives of Brahms, Schumann, Chopin, and Liszt. 8:00pm in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on the Federation Campus, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Tickets: $36