Celebrating Jewish Life in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Israel and the World FEDERATION NEWS
Ce
Years g 0 5 n i t a lebr
PUBLISHED BY
The Jewish Federation OF SARASOTA-MANATEE
THE LARRY & MARY GREENSPON FAMILY CAMPUS FOR JEWISH LIFE
February 2020 - Shevat/Adar 5780 INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
www.jfedsrq.org
Volume 50, Number 2
13A Community Focus 22A Jewish Interest 28A Israel & the Jewish World 33A Commentary 36A Focus on Youth 39A Life Cycle 1B Jewish Happenings
A Sneak Peek at
The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life
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Bobbi and Don Bernstein: A philosophy of giving where you live
6A
Federation’s Bradenton/ Lakewood Ranch Newcomers Event a success!
8A
MoMENtum: Dads experience Israel while learning about themselves
18A
9th Annual A Taste of Chanukah Festival illuminates the spirit and soul of our community
By Howard Tevlowitz, Chief Executive Officer he re-imagined Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life will provide the space for new, innovative and forward-thinking programs to ensure continuity and ongoing strong engagement at all stages of life. With the expansion of the Performing Arts Center and the addition of the Hershorin Schiff Community Day School, which will move onto the campus in June of 2021, we will be able to provide access points for the community across the age spectrum. Based on the roadmap provided by the 2019 Jewish Community Study, our campus leadership is now hard at work looking at best practices to incorporate on our campus. The design of the spaces for the new campus is also well underway. Just imagine what we can create using these spaces that are pictured here! We are JFED PROUD & STRONG! (continued on page 2A)
T
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38A
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2A
February 2020
FEDERATION NEWS
Jewish Film Festival: Celebrating 11 years By Gayle Guynup
N
ow celebrating its 11th year, the 2020 Jewish Film Festival, hosted by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, is planned for March 11-22, and will feature 18 new films from around the world, giving viewers a panoramic and thought-provoking view of Jewish life, history, culture and values. Most of the films will be screened in three theaters at the Regal Hollywood 11 in downtown Sarasota. The Opening Night film, Fiddler: A Miracle of Miracles, will be shown on Wednesday, March 11 at 7:00 p.m. at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium (801 N. Tamiami Trail); the Centerpiece film, Golda’s Balcony, The Film, will be shown on Wednesday, March 18 at 7:00 p.m. at the Sarasota Event Center (600 N. Beneva Road); and the Closing Event film, Never Again Is Now, will be shown on Sunday, March 22 at 3:00 p.m., also at the Sarasota Event Center. For a complete list of films, please visit jfedsrq.org/jff20. The festival will kick off with Fiddler: A Miracle of Miracles, which explores one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals – Fiddler on the Roof – including intimate interviews with the show’s creators. The documentary takes viewers inside a variety of international productions of Fiddler, detailing how individuals of many different cultures see themselves reflected in the residents of Anatevka. According to Executive Producer Patti Kenner, she became involved when the film’s director, Max Lewkowicz, contacted her and two other women trustees at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in New York, asking if they would like to be involved in the project. “It is a play I have always adored and seen over and over again. Of course, we all said yes,” Kenner said. “The issues confronted in the play – tradition, marriage, rebellious daughters, persecution, forced immigra-
tion – are everyone’s issues and they are issues we are dealing with today,” Kenner explained. “Everyone who saw the play or the film around the world started to believe this was their story. I came to understand that Fiddler was not strictly a Jewish story. It was everyone’s story. “One of my favorite lines from the movie is when a Japanese director of Fiddler says, ‘I don’t know
what you Americans see in Fiddler. It is so Japanese.’” This year’s Centerpiece film will be Golda’s Balcony, The Film, with special guest David Fishelson, the film’s New York City-based producer, who will be at the screening to answer questions from the audience. The film traces Golda Meir’s rise from a Russian schoolgirl, to American school teacher, to a leader on the global political stage as Israel’s Prime Minister. “If you tell the story of Golda Meir, you are telling the story of the Jews for the last 100 years, including, of course, the birth of the State of Israel,” Fishelson said. “It is an incredibly well-
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ner, Rosa Zeegers, left the land her da’s Balcony made a triumphant return family had called home for centuries to Broadway, this time as a one-woman and moved to the United States – only show starring Tovah Feldshuh, playing to find anti-Semitism on the rise there, all 45 characters. as well. “She was so sensational in how she When Evelyn’s mother passed shifted from character to character,” away in 2014 and they were cleaning Fishelson said. “It was a dizzying, but out her closets, Markus says clear-minded tour-dethey found a letter dated May force.” 1945, in which her mother deIn May 2003, a scribed how the Americans had multi-camera video reliberated her as she was on her cording was made way to a death camp. Markus of one of the pershowed the letter to a friend, formances, and was who showed it to a documenpromptly locked away tary filmmaker friend, and the in a safe for 14 years. result was Never Again Is Now. In January of last year, The first part of the film tells Fishelson took it from Evelyn Markus the story of Evelyn’s parents, the vault and discovincluding an opportunity Evelyn had to ered it was “highly cinematic, capturmeet with a 97-year-old American veting the magic of the play.” eran who had been among those who He created Golda’s Balcony, The liberated her mother from the train on Film, and has screened it at more that fateful day. The second part is the than 40 Jewish film festivals across story of Evelyn and Rosa, as they faced the country, where it has consistently rising anti-Semitism in their homeland, won Audience Choice Awards. The and in 2006 made the decision to emi18-month window during which he is grate to the United States. The final allowed to show the film at film festipart of the film is about life in the Unitvals will be coming to an end in Aued States, as she questions why antigust, which means Sarasota audiences Semitism has found a new home here, will be among the last to see the film. and is surging once again. At that point, Fishelson must wait five “My hope is that this film will conyears before he can sell the film to vince people to take the early signs companies such as Netflix. of anti-Semitism seriously,” she said. The Jewish Film Festival con“There are ideologies out there every cludes on March 22 with Never Again bit as lethal as Nazism was, and we Is Now, with special guests Evelyn need to stand up against it. In the last Markus and Rosa Zeegers, who will two to three years, we are seeing the answer questions after the screening. same signs that were there as the Nazi The film is a powerful documenmovement started in Europe. We have tary about the rise of global anti-Semito stop it. We have to stop it now.” tism, told through the eyes of Markus, For sponsorship opportunities or to a Dutch Jewish woman, against the purchase tickets, visit jfedsrq.org/jff20, backdrop of the Holocaust and the rise call 888.718.4253 option 1, or contact of anti-Semitism. When Markus saw Jeremy Lisitza at jlisitza@jfedsrq.org signs of anti-Semitism in her beloved or 941.343.2113. Netherlands, she and her lifelong part-
written history of the Jews,” he added. Fishelson describes the creation of the film as a 50-year journey. The 45-character play, written by William Gibson, “crashed and burned” in its first Broadway incarnation, but in 2003, with Fishelson as producer, Gol-
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FEDERATION NEWS
February 2020
3A
A philosophy of giving where you live By Marty Katz, Sr. Dir. of Communications & Marketing
I
n the late 1960s, a young couple sat in the audience at a Federation/UJA event in Chicago. They were mesmerized by the words of Golda Meir, who was not prime minister yet but was sent by the Israeli government to raise funds. Her speech marked the beginning of Bobbi and Don Bernstein’s lifelong commitment to the mission of The Jewish Federation, in Chicago, Charlotte and eventually SarasotaManatee. Bobbi and Don Bernstein spent the first 15 years of their marriage in
Bobbi and Don Bernstein
the Chicago area. They became even more committed to the Federation after adopting their three children through the Jewish Children’s Bureau, part of the Chicago Federation. In 1978, the couple moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, after Don sold his family’s textile and finishing supply company to a North Carolina company. The Bernsteins felt it was important to raise their children with other Jews, so they settled in Charlotte, despite a 56-mile commute each way for Don. While living in Charlotte, Bobbi became extensively involved with the Charlotte Federation, beginning with a part-time family programming position with the JCC which gave her entrée into the local Jewish community. She then chaired Jewish Family Services,
built the Federation’s women’s division through education and outreach, planned and hosted events, served on the allocations committee, chaired the Federation’s first million-dollar campaign, and eventually became the Federation’s first woman president. If that wasn’t enough, Bobbi became Charlotte’s first Lion of Judah and is known for growing women’s philanthropy in that town. As Bobbi said, “Federation was my home, my identity, my passion. It gave purpose to my life.” When Don retired at 55, it was his turn to make an impact on the local community. Don’s primary focus was a Federation Young Leadership Program that trains and encourages young men and women (ages 25-40) to become the next leaders of the Jewish community and beyond. This is still a popular, ongoing program that has literally trained hundreds of leaders in the Charlotte community. “This is the program we are most proud of. The goal was to replace ourselves and we have!” said Bobbi. Don’s other passion was providing and promoting endowment and legacy giving. He helped establish a Jewish Community Endowment Fund, which today has the participation of every major Jewish institution in Charlotte. Enter Sarasota. The couple began vacationing here in 1993 when Bobbi’s mom lived on Siesta Key. In 2006, Bobbi and Don bought their own condo and now spend six months of the year in Sarasota. The couple met Major Gifts Officer Rich Bergman, and as they say, “Once you do, you’re in.” Bobbi again joined a Federation board, this time in Sarasota-Manatee. She also chaired Federation’s Lion of Judah Luncheon and Major Gifts Dinner.
CLUBFED Thursday, February 20, 2020 IMAGINE MUSEUM
Alex Bernstein, Arched Blue Crystal
LIFE & LEGACY™ committee. Rich Bergman said, “We are so fortunate to have Don and Bobbi as an integral part of our Jewish community. My wife Rebecca and I are blessed to have them as good friends.” The Federation is blessed too. As Bobbi said about Don, “Once on his list, you are on his list forever. He does not lose a friend and doesn’t stop giving.” Thank you Bobbi and Don for opening your hearts to our local Federation’s mission and for not just giving where you live, but for creating a legacy where you live. For more information on how you can support the JFED PROUD & STRONG campaign to expand The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, contact Ilene Fox at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq. org, or Rich Bergman at 941.552.6406 or rbergman@jfedsrq.org.
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Along the way, Don and Bobbi became major benefactors of the Federation. In addition to annual giving, they have made a capital campaign gift for programming needs and an endowment for the new Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life. While living in Charlotte, the couple saw firsthand how a multi-acre Jewish campus, called “Shalom Park,” was able to bring people together, engage youth and create an exciting, cohesive Jewish presence in the community. “I like the slogan ‘give while you live,’ and I would add ‘give where you live,’” said Don. “We like the idea of a continuing legacy of support long after we are gone, and knowing that we can make a difference now, and in the future. We can’t enjoy the fruits of what others have done without participating ourselves – and we know the needs are not only ongoing, but growing in this thriving community.” Don is also on Temple Emanu-El’s
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February 2020
FEDERATION NEWS
Where your dollars go
NO HATE. NO FEAR. 500
ity as we said NO un m m co e on as d people stoo y. ity Rally in Januar ar id ol S r ou at R A to HATE and FE
This series highlights mission-based programs and projects that are supported by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Funding for these initiatives is derived from the Annual Campaign. The series helps to explain where your generous dollars are spent and features certain initiatives that enrich the lives of Jews living in Sarasota-Manatee, local projects with area partners, and overseas programs that support the social and humanitarian needs of Jews in Israel and around the world. Your generous support is found in our Overseas Granting Cycle. See the article below for more information.
Impacting organizations in Israel Staff Report
T
he Jewish Federation of Saraprovided by the Federation, funds colsota-Manatee and its Overseas laborative research by an international Granting Committee are proud team of scientists on marine issues of of the impact of the grants they provide importance to that region. Collaborato Israeli organizations each year. This tive research is critical as it allows for past year, 23 organizations received a deeper level of engagement that is esgrants. One such organization, which sential for successful partnerships with received a $10,000 grant, is The Mote impactful outcomes. – Israel Cooperative Marine Research Program (MIC). MIC supports the work of Mote scientists working in partnership and collaboration with Israeli scientists and others, here and abroad, on issues affecting the Red Sea and other key bodies of water in Dr. Eugenie Clark conducting research in Israel (circa 1950s) Some of the current projects inthe region. Current research areas are clude Increasing the Efficiency of focused primarily on fisheries manageAquaculture Water Circulation Sysment and marine and freshwater aquatems, Sea Vegetables: Growing an Edculture, with efforts in the Red Sea ible Aquaponics Water Filter, Creating and the Gulf of Aqaba. It also includes Sustainable Mullet Fisheries in the ocean acidification, and coral health Middle East, and Monitoring Water and disease. Quality of Red Sea Lagoons. Philanthropic support such as that The Federation is proud to support such important work to make our world a better place! For more information about Mote Marine, visit https://mote. org/. To learn more about our Researchers from six nations gather for the overseas grants, contact Jeremy 1st International Workshop on Impacts of Ocean Acidification Lisitza at jlisitza@jfedsrq.org or and Climate Change on Corals and Coral Reefs, which was led by Mote Marine Laboratory 941.343.2113.
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THANK YOU TO OUR SPEAKERS: Howard Tevlowitz, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee Brian Lipton, AJC West Coast Florida Rabbi Jennifer Singer, Sarasota Rabbinic Association Imam Mohammed Ben Khaled, Islamic Society of Sarasota-Bradenton Father Fausto Stampiglia, The Diocese of Venice Pastor Kelvin Lumpkin, Light of the World Church Luz Corcuera, UnidosNow Dr. Rev. Tom Pfaff, Sarasota Ministerial Association We also offer our appreciation to Sid Krupkin for the beautiful music, Bette Zaret for leading us in the Hands Against Hate pledge, and the Sarasota chapter of the NAACP for its support.
SARASOTA-MANATEE IS STRONGER THAN HATE.
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d by s derous Established 1971 ving PUBLISHER that The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee orld. The Larry & Mary Greenspon the
950s)
February 2020
FEDERATION NEWS
Family Campus for Jewish Life Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Road Sarasota, FL 34232-1959 Phone: 941.371.4546 Fax: 941.378.2947 E-mail: jewishnews@jfedsrq.org Website: www.jfedsrq.org Published Monthly Volume 50, Number 2 February 2020 52 pages USPS Permit No. 167
March 2020 Issue Deadlines: Editorial: January 29, 2020 Advertising: February 3, 2020
People of the Book: Ariel Burger shares Elie Wiesel’s teachings By Gayle Guynup
I
n February, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee will host a very special “People of the Book” event, featuring Ariel Burger, author of Witness: Lessons from Elie Wiesel’s Classroom. The lecture will be held on Thursday, February 13 at 7:00 p.m. in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life (582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota). Tickets are $18 per person. “Elie Wiesel was a towering presence on the world stage – a Nobel laureate, activist, adviser to world leaders, and the author of more than 40 books. But when asked, Wiesel always said, ‘I am a teacher first.’” (books.google. com)
CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Change of address inquiries can be sent to Paula Ivory-Bishop at pibishop@jfedsrq.org or call 941.371.4546 x0
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING Marty Katz MANAGING EDITOR Ted Epstein ADVERTISING SALES Adam Kaplan – 941.552.6307 PROOFREADERS Edward D. Cohen, Rhonda Kaplan, Marianne Mandell, Elliot Ofsowitz, Blanche Pasternak, Jeff Sherman, Jill Simons, Linda Stern, Bryna Tevlowitz MISSION STATEMENT: The Jewish News of Sarasota-Manatee strives to be the source of news and features of special interest to the Jewish community of Sarasota-Manatee, to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions in the Jewish community, and to communicate the mission, activities and achievements of the Federation and its Jewish community partners. OPINIONS printed in The Jewish News of Sarasota-Manatee do not necessarily reflect those of The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee, its Board of Directors or staff. SUBMISSIONS to The Jewish News are subject to editing for space and content, and may be withheld from publication without prior notice. Approval of submissions for publication in either verbal or written form shall always be considered tentative, and does not imply a guarantee of any kind. Submissions must be sent electronically to jewishnews@jfedsrq.org. LETTERS to the editor should not exceed 300 words, must be typed, and include the writer’s name, mailing address and phone number. Letters can be submitted via USPS or email (jewishnews@jfedsrq.org). Not all letters will be published. Letters may be edited for length and content. ADVERTISING: Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement and may require the words “Paid Advertisement” in any ad. Publication of advertisements does not constitute endorsement of products, services or ideas promoted therein.
STAY CONNECTED
RBC Wealth Management, Jules & Carol B. Green, and Lori & David Liner. Future speakers include: Josh Frank, Giraffes on Horseback Salad, March 8, 7:00 p.m., Beatrice Friedman Theater Jack Fairweather, The Volunteer: One Man, an Underground Army, and Sarah Rose, D-Day Girls: The Spies Who Armed the Resistance, Sabotaged the Nazis and Helped Win World War II, April 21, 10:30 a.m., Beatrice Friedman Theater Individual tickets (other than Burger) are $10. To purchase tickets, visit jfedsrq.org/books. For more information, please contact Jeremy Lisitza, Director of Innovation and Volunteer Engagement, at jlisitza@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2113.
ways to combat hatred, evil and indifference, issues that we are all dealing with in our own ways today.” “If we don’t use the methods and tools he left us, we are missing a tremendous opportunity,” Burger added. Describing their relationship as that of master/disciple, Burger said he hopes one day to start a fellowship or institute that will teach future leaders about Wiesel’s insights on intellect, spirituality, morality and faith. Held in partnership with the Jewish Book Council, “People of the Book” features programs on a variety of topics that are sure to delight, educate and intrigue audiences. Federation thanks its Silver Sponsor, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, and its Bronze Sponsors: The Ackerman Group, Suncoast Pearl Wealth Group -
me LDetesDESIGN ign YourYOUR Way WAY
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5A
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Design Your Way
Ariel Burger and Elie Wiesel
Burger had a unique perspective from which to write this book. He met Wiesel at the age of 15, became his student in his 20s, and his teaching assistant in his 30s at Boston University, where Wiesel taught for nearly four decades. In 2008, Burger had a conversation with Wiesel about the need to write a book or establish an institute that would teach his approach to life’s moral complexities, to which Wiesel replied, “You are right. You need to write the book.” It was Burger’s first book. He said, “It took me a long time to write it.” While he would work on it in his spare time, when he met with Wiesel in 2013 and saw that he had grown very frail, “I felt a lot more urgency,” Burger said. When he first began writing Witness, his goal was “to give people a sense of connection to Professor Wiesel, to help them understand what a profoundly generous and wise teacher Elie Wiesel was.” But as time went on, and the world around us continued to change, Burger’s goal in writing the book became much more urgent. “I needed to share his life and legacy on
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6A
February 2020
FEDERATION NEWS
Federation’s Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch Newcomers Event – “A little shtetl was born” Staff Report
I
t would be an understatement to say that our first Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch Newcomers Event was a success. Held at the Rosedale Country Club in December, and thanks to co-chairs Sharyn Nassau and Cynthia Wright, and event sponsors UBS Financial Services and the Bradenton Herald, the event saw 100 people come out to learn about our vibrant Jewish community. It was heartwarming to witness attendees meeting for the first time who happen to be neighbors living five doors down from one another, or new connections amongst several couples living in the same subdivision. Chief Development Officer Ilene Fox says, “I met a couple from County Club East in Lakewood Ranch who
thought there were no other Jews in their neighborhood. A few minutes later I met another couple from that subdivision who also bemoaned the lack of Jews. I connected the two couples only to then have a third couple introduce themselves, saying they lived in Country Club East. Between the three couples, a little shtetl was born!” And this is why we hold events such as these to build and bring together our local Jewish community. If you are new to the area and would like to become involved, please contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org. To learn about ways to support the Federation, please contact Ilene Fox at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org.
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L’Chayim Scott & Lisa Zelniker with Federation Board President Randon Carvel
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FEDERATION NEWS
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A kickoff to the 2020 Women’s Giving Circle By Debbie Yonker, Chair, Women’s Giving Circle
T
he Hospitality Committee of the Women’s Giving Circle welcomed current, new and prospective members to its December Open House. The Women’s Giving Circle is a group of passionate and caring women in Sarasota-Manatee committed to making a difference in the lives of in-need or at-risk women and children in Israel. The Women’s Giving Circle is entering the granting cycle for 2020 and all were invited to participate in reading the grant applications. The group also communicated via Zoom video conferencing with two of the 2019
grantees during the meeting. This gave the members deeper insight into the mission and accomplishments of Achotenu, which empowers young
Ethiopian-lsraeli women to follow their aspirations of becoming nurses in Israel. They also heard from ZAKA’s K-9 Leadership Training, a unique em-
Women’s Giving Circle members
powerment program which transforms Israel’s at-risk youth into at-promise youth. By training with dogs over a year’s time, they hone their strengths and build their self-confidence in order to begin dealing with past traumas. Membership in the Women’s Giving Circle is $518, and each member votes for organizations to receive funding. Since its inception in 2014, the Women’s Giving Circle has granted more than $231,000 to at-risk women and children in Israel. Membership is open. For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org.
Holocaust survivors celebrate Stay connected at www.jfedsrq.org the Festival of Lights
E
very year, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee partners with JFCS of the Suncoast, Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Community Services and The Florida Holocaust Museum to provide a fun and social Hanukkah celebration for our local Holocaust survivors. More than 75 survivors and spouses enjoyed a Hanukkah meal by Temple Sinai Catering, a symbolic menorah candle lighting, and lively music by the Freylekh Trio. At times, the room had the energy of a bar/bat mitzvah party with several people up and dancing to traditional Jewish music and music from the Balkan states. It truly was a celebration of love and light with guests also enjoying spinning dreidels and eating gelt that was part of their table decorations! The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee supports the Holocaust Survivor Support Services at JFSC of the Suncoast, and holds Holocaust
! ERow N aR INrs in W3 Yea
By Jessi Sheslow, Director of Community Relations
education events throughout the year. Our Holocaust Survivors Speakers Bureau provides an opportunity for the community, young and old, to hear the story of a survivor. For more information about the Speakers Bureau or if you are a 2nd Generation Holocaust survivor, please contact me at jsheslow@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2109.
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February 2020
FEDERATION NEWS
MoMENtum: Dads experience Israel while learning about themselves
T
he Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s November MoMENtum trip to Israel, led by Dr. Josh Green and Federation CEO Howard Tevlowitz, continues to inspire the fathers and their families. Equally important is that this “momentous” experience reinforces the Federation’s mission of strengthening Jewish life and identity in our community, providing for Jewish people in need and supporting Israel. The saying “Behind every great man is a great woman” helps explain the strength of the MoMENtum program, complementing the original Jewish Women Renaissance Project (JWRP), now known as MOMentum. The two programs for parents of children under 18 have been rebranded as Momentum Unlimited (Momentum). Since eight women conceived of JWRP in 2009, MOMentum continues
to empower women to connect to Jewish values, engage with Israel and foster unity. In 2013, fathers – assisted by JWRP Founding Director Lori Palatnik – began availing themselves of their own profound, personal experience, during which they explore the Jewish homeland, learn inspiring Jewish wisdom and join a global Jewish brotherhood. Unlike the moms’ year-long program of educational and leadership programs continued at home, MoMENtum is an eight-day global boot camp. Dr. Josh Green, the local MoMENtum community leader, attributes his involvement to his wife. As the MOMentum chair, Julie Green was instrumental in bringing JWRP to the community when the Federation sponsored its first group of women in 2017. “Julie inspired me to participate in this experience,” says Josh. “Her
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enthusiasm and dedication are contagious. I’ve seen how she’s discovered how to connect more deeply with herself, our family and the community.” Chris Malkin, another participant, shares how his wife inspired him to join MoMENtum. “Jill went on the first Sarasota MOMentum trip. I wanted to be on the same page with our Jewish values, raising our daughter and creating a Jewish-minded community in Sarasota.” This wasn’t his first trip to Israel. Chris accompanied his daughter as a chaperone with the Hershorin Schiff Community Day School in April 2018. “After those experiences, I knew that I wanted to experience Israel with like-minded dads.” What makes the MoMENtum experience different from that of other trips? The Federation-sponsored trip began the weekend before in Tel Aviv, where the men toured the modern city and adjacent sites, including the Lewinsky Food Market; the (Shimon) Peres Center of Peace and Innovation; and the Ayalon Institute, the home of the covert bullet-making factory used from 1945 through 1948, when Israel won her independence. The spiritual journey, accentuated by the MoMENtum itinerary and bolstered by knowledgeable tour guides and educators, began Monday, when
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our men joined over 300 MoMENtum participants from as far away as Australia and South Africa, fostering a tightly knit group. Chris, for example, was overwhelmed when two of the Federation fathers, along with eight other men from the group, had a bar mitzvah at Masada. “What an emotional experience!” he says. “I recognized the embroidery of the Torah cover as the one that the Malkin family dedicated and sponsored years earlier. I couldn’t hold back my tears, especially being part of the ceremony where I touched the Torah while undressing and dressing it.” Others attest to the reflective experience at the Kotel (Western Wall) in Jerusalem. Placing personal notes in the wall and sharing Kabbalat Shabbat with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers – praying, singing, dancing and connecting – has been identified as one of the most memorable times. According to many in the group, participating in the Tzfat men’s mikvah contributed to a spiritual renewal. But more important, the experience helped them discover how they could connect more to their family and Israel – a cornerstone of MoMENtum. But probably the group’s most poignant time was receiving letters from family during Shabbat. Julie might have been the MOMentum behind Josh’s decision. But Gisele Pintchuck, Federation’s Momentum Community Leader, emphasizes that Josh’s innate leadership helped fortify the experience for the other participants. Gisele says, “From his early involvement with our Federation through the various roles he has served along the way, Josh has shown an unparalleled ability to connect with people and inspire others.” It’s understandable why Josh was continued on next page
STAY CONNECTED
empowering Jewish classed led by worldclass speakers and Israeli thought-leaders.
spiritual Tzfat, Masada’s desert magic, Shabbat in Jerusalem and many more unique experiences.
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how to connect deeper with yourself, your family and your community.
For more information , please contact: Gisele Pintchuck | gpintchuck@jfedsrq.org | 941.706.0029
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By Sandy Chase
February 2020
FEDERATION NEWS MoMENtum...continued from previous page chosen as the MoMENtum community discovery, our local MoMENtum leader. His impressive commitment participants have become steadfast to Federation speaks volumes. Since in wanting to enrich their family life, 2008, Josh has served as: dedicate themselves to their religion Federation board member and support Israel. Federation development campaign Participant Rob Knego finds that co-chair he’s more mindful, saying, “I’ve start Co-chair of the National Young ed focusing on my Judaism. Finally, I’ve made an effort to try new things Leadership Cabinet for The Jewout of my comfort zone on a daily baish Federations of North America (JFNA), a prestigious elected posis. My family finds me more thoughtsition overseeing 154 U.S. and ful and patient.” When Chris reflects on the trip, he Canadian Jewish Federations says that Judaism – especially Torah Co-chair of the JFNA Joshua Socistudy – has become a daily roadmap ety, a group of philanthropists who for being more positive. “It’s helped contribute $10,000 or more to their Federation’s annual campaign me create a more nurturing family environment. Jill and I use one voice for Currently, Josh and Julie complefamily and parenting. And the more ment three other couples as capital frequent observance of Shabbat creates campaign co-chairs overseeing the an opportunity to appreciate my famrefurbishment of the Federation’s 32acre campus into The Larry & Mary ily, community and others.” According to another father on the Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish trip, Ryan Ackerman, “This life-changLife. ing experience has shown me ways to Through their journey of self-
be more present and spend more time with my family. I’m also more committed to being a better husband and father. Jewish life at home has taken on a new significance.” Participant Michael Gordon can’t seem to find all the words, saying, “My journey was spiritual, emotional and rewarding, but it was so much more. It was a life-changing experience for my marriage, my Judaism, my work, my children and my values.” Another pervasive theme is learning about the spirituality and ethics of Judaism and its importance in life. For Josh, “They are gifts so we can learn how to be a better person to ourselves, our family and community.” To keep the momentum going, the group and their families are planning
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more joint Shabbat dinners. David Sussman, an IDF member who was one of the group’s tour guides, was the speaker at a Federation event in January. Josh is busily lining up additional presenters. Whether it’s mothers or fathers, Momentum inspires and empowers parents to transform themselves, families, communities and the world. And the Federation has availed itself of the two programs that embody the pride, respect and love for Jewish tradition and identity. There’s no stopping the “momentum.” For more information on Federation’s next MOMentum and MoMENtum trips, contact Gisele Pintchuck at 941.706.0029 or gpintchuck@jfedsrq. org.
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February 2020
FEDERATION NEWS
A packed room at Michael’s On East Rabbi Miriam Weisel, Toby Halpern and Susi Steenbarger
Celebrity Chef Gail Simmons
Helen Glaser and Bunny Skirboll lead the Motzi Marcy Klein, Ida Zito and Wendy Mann Resnick
Gail Simmons with her latest book
Jane Rosenstein, Nancy Shapiro, Iris Nahemow and Faith Goldman
Renee Fletcher and Jeanne Marlowe
Julie Wright Halbert shared her MOMentum journey
Irene Ross
Cynthia Wright and Julie Wright Halbert
Nancy Wolk
Renee Singer and Gail Simmons
Wayne Ruben, Ronna Ruben, Rachael Feldman and Joseph Feldman
Barbara Ackerman, Pam Brown and Susan Samson
Simone Knego, Elisa Cohen, Caroline Ratner, Aurelie Vandenbroek, Lauren Kurnov and Alicia Zoller
February 2020
FEDERATION NEWS
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Volunteer Spotlight
The consummate educator: Ronnie Riceberg By Sandy Chase
R
onnie Riceberg – a born EDUsion to other top schools because of CATOR – is dedicated to tikkun quotas. I’ve met like-minded women olam for the Jewish communiwho are socially responsible, lifelong learners, interesting and accomty and Sarasota. Her extensive teaching plished.” experience and artistic ability, coupled The importance of friendship and with her tireless efforts and foresights, have helped enrich our community commitment to her community help while bolstering The Jewish Federaexplain Ronnie’s introduction to the Federation: “I joined the JCC in 2004 tion of Sarasota-Manatee’s mission: upon moving to Sarasota, wanting strengthening Jewish life, providing to meet friends, learn about my new for Jewish people in need and promot‘home,’ and work out.” ing support for Israel. Even before retiring in 2014, RonWhether involved with the Fednie began attending Jewish community eration’s Jewish Film Festival (JFF), events. “I met friends like Roz Goldscholarship committee, or Kristallberg, JFF’s founder, nacht programs, Ronnie For clear, healthy skin, visit Dr. Joshua Newman, nationally who encouraged me shines as the consumrecognized as a “Top Doctor” by Castle Connolly Medical, to volunteer on her mate teacher, ensuring committee. This comthat others learn, enjoy Ltd. and voted “Best Dermatologist” by readers of the munity has such carand share their experiSarasota Herald Tribune. ing people. I’m lucky ences. to have friends who A JFF screeningReceive expert diagnosis and treatment for: have enhanced my life committee member, while opening doors to Ronnie also serves as Skin Cancer • Skin Growths • Skin Disease meaningful commuthe festival’s volunteer Mohs Micrographic Surgery nity programs.” chair, overseeing those A significant unwho greet and usher padertaking is Ronnie’s trons. Ronnie helps her Ronnie Riceberg involvement with Dalet, a collaboravolunteers acclimate to their role by Joshua M. Newman, M.D. tive effort amongst four area Jewish conducting training sessions and creatMedical/Surgical Dermatologist congregations – Temples Beth Sholom, ing a website that designates available Emanu-El, Sinai and Beth Israel – “to shifts. Named “Top Doctor” by help build community among the Jews Last year, Ronnie was responsible Castle Connolly Medical, Ltd. of greater Sarasota through learning, for coordinating 57 screenings at six dialogue and cultural enrichment,” the venues. Jeremy Lisitza, Director of Innovation and Volunteer Engagement, mission statement penned by Ronnie. So much more than the fourth marvels at how Ronnie has achieved Schedule your annual appointment today! this undertaking, saying, “Her years Hebrew letter, Dalet partners with CenterForSight.net • 941.488.2020 as an elementary-school teacher have the Federation, sharing meaningful paid off.” community programs. Al Treidel, the Ronnie’s 40-year teaching career group’s founder-facilitator, says, “Ronhas taught her to multitask, innovate nie is always there, contributing to a and problem-solve strategies for fulrich community dialogue. She makes filling her commitments, although she herself available to help with virtually admits, “Sometimes I’m challenged, every Dalet program.” but never defeated.” In fact, she also Al further explains Ronnie’s infinds time for reading, photography valuable support: “Dalet’s sponsorand theater. ship of the Sarasota Jewish Chorale A long-term scholarship commitconcerts and Butterflies of Hope are, tee member, Ronnie has been praised at least, partially due to Ronnie’s adby Andrea Eiffert, Teen and Family vocacy.” Program Coordinator: “Ronnie’s dediRonnie thrives on making a differcation to students in need and her stewence, having emulated her parents. “In ardship of Federation scholarship funds both Portland, Maine, my childhood demonstrate her integrity and sense of home, and in California during their obligation to this important cause.” retirement, they volunteered at the Director of Community Relations synagogue, JCC and Hadassah,” says Jessi Sheslow says, “Ronnie has been Ronnie. a driving force behind planning and Ronnie, too, serves as a role modexecuting the past two Kristallnacht el for her children. Proudly, she says, commemorations. She has a passion “Jessica conducts oncological research, for Holocaust education and is a doer!” and Justin is pursuing post-doctorate with the Largest Selection of Contemporary “Doer” is an understatement, as work in neuroscience.” & the Oriental Rugs with LargestInvestment-Quality Selection of Contemporary this partial list expands upon Ronnie’s The recipient of the 2018 Federain the Southeast! & Oriental Investment-Quality Rugs commitment to “repairing the world:” tion’s Kehillah (Community) Award, in the Southeast! Member of Temple Beth Sholom’s Ronnie is an ambassador for the Jeweducation committee ish community, understandably be President of the Sarasota Jewcause EDUCATOR captures Ronnie’s ish Chorale, spreading the love of essence: Jewish culture through music E xceptional volunteer • Cleaning Board member of Choral Artists, D edicated lifelong learner also singing with the group in U ntiring • Repair 4801 S. 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12A
February 2020
FEDERATION NEWS
PJ Library Hanukkits light up classrooms! Staff Report
S
econd-graders at Fruitville Elewhat each one represents. Students in Chipurnoi’s classroom mentary were delighted to learn shared that they were not familiar with about the holiday of Hanukkah Hanukkah before they learned about it in their classroom, using PJ Library in school, and all agreed that it was fun Hanukkits. to learn about other holiday traditions! Here’s the story behind the HanukEvery month, PJ Library sends kits. Mary Collier, a PJ Library parent more than 650,000 free Jewish books and Jewish Federation volunteer, recto families around the world with chilognized a need early on to introduce dren ages 6 months through 8 years children in public schools to the holiold. PJ Library shares stories that celday of Hanukkah. With three children ebrate Jewish values, culture and tradiof her own, she had been invited into tion, all at no cost to families. their classrooms to share Hanukkah For more information about PJ traditions each year, and wanted to Library, or PJ Our Way (for children make it easy for other parents to do ages 9-12), contact Andrea Eiffert at the same. So Mary approached Andrea 941.552.5308 or aeiffert@jfedsrq.org. Eiffert, local PJ Library Coordinator, about her idea, and the Hanukkit initiative was born. A Hanukkit contains materials that make sharing Hanukkah traditions easy for parents, including a PJ Library Hanukkah book, dreidels, gelt and game instructions. The Hanukkits have been very popular for the past two years, selling out of supplies both years. Enter Fruitville Elementary. AnSecond-grade students at Fruitville other local PJ Library parent, Michala Elementary School enjoy playing dreidel Chipurnoi, a second-grade teacher at Fruitville Elementary School, took the Hanukkit to a new level, purchasing a kit for each of the eight second-grade classrooms at the school, and incorporating it into her lessons about holiday traditions around the world. None of her 17 students celebrate Hanukkah at home, but they all enjoyed playing the dreidel game in school, even learning the Hebrew PJ Library parent and teacher Michala Chipurnoi with her Fruitville Elementary School second-grade class letters on the dreidel and
Re-Live the Fun!
TRADITION: A Movie and Chinese On December 25 th, 200 pe
You Will Atte TRADITIO nd Next Year’s Eve n N: A Mov ie and Chint ese e Jewish Federation of S
... ople me he first t n i e rrily pack ed the Beatrice Friedman Theater to participat sted by Th e event ho
...TRADI es TION: A Movie and Chin
arasota-M anatee.
Co- Chairs: Andrea Silvergl eit and Lisa Berger Chris Cole, Irene Herman, and Cara Herman Celia and Craig Marion
Debby and Jerry Hamburg
Parade of “sht etl chic” costumes
Chinese Buffet
13A
The history of Jews in Germany
By Marden Paru, Dean, Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva | This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
W
hen we think of Jews in Germany, it’s the Holocaust that immediately comes to oommind. And that is the way it should be. withThe Holocaust was a uniquely tragic out itperiod in human history. But the story s funof Jewish Germany goes back nearly ons! 2,000 years, and the Jewish experience endsin Germany continues to influence life ooksaround the world. Here are just a few chil-reasons the Jewish German experience yearsis worth learning about: cel- Germany has more monuments to Jewish history than any other naradition except Israel. German Jews moving east estab t PJ lished what came to be called the dren Ashkenazi communities of Eastern rt at Europe. And they brought the Yidrg. dish language with them. Reform Judaism in the United States came about from the Reform
s
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Judaism that began in Germany in the 1800s and developed here by immigrant rabbis to America. The three individuals whose ideas have most impacted world events for 100+ years were all German Jews – Karl Marx, Sigmund Freud and Albert Einstein. Under German law, victims of Nazi persecution and their children can reclaim or become German citizens. In the last few years, some 100,000 Jewish people, mainly from Israel, Britain and the United States, have done so. Starting Tuesday, February 11, the Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva will offer a four-week course on the history of Jewish Germany, during which, cultural anthropologist David Levinson draws out the expanse of the Jewish experience in Germany from the fourth
century CE to the present. The course fee is $40. To enroll or for more information, contact me at 941.379.5655 or marden.paru@gmail.com. Classes will take place from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. The Jewish Federation of Sarasota Manatee partially subsidizes the Yeshiva through a grant. About Dr. David Levinson Dr. David Levinson is a cultural anthropologist and son of a German Holocaust survivor. His ongoing research on his own and other Jewish families and European Jewish life continues his career-long interest in telling the stories of forgotten and persecuted peoples – the homeless, victims of family violence, refugees, immigrants and African American communities.
His book, Jewish Germany, An Enduring Presence from the Fourth to the Twenty-First Century, was published in January 2018 by Vallentine Mitchell. Dr. Levinson was a research anthropologist and director of a research institute at Yale University for over 20 years and has been involved in several public anthropology projects, including the establishment of the African American Heritage Trail in New England. He served as general editor of the 10-volume Religion & Society series and co-editor of the four-volume Encyclopedia of Community. Among his other books are One Minute a Free Woman: Elizabeth Freeman and the Struggle for Freedom and This Is America: A Short History of the United States.
“How Israeli Ingenuity Repairs the World”
This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
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emple Emanu-El, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and Dalet are delighted to welcome bestselling author and renowned speaker Avi Jorisch to Sarasota next month. Jorisch will present at Temple Emanu-El on Sunday, March 29 at 2:00 p.m. This special event is part of the 75-year commemoration of the liberation of Europe and the end of World War II. A Middle East expert and thought leader in exploring global innovation trends, the Arab world, counterterrorism and illicit finance, Jorisch is perhaps best known for his most recent bestselling book, Thou Shalt Innovate: How Israeli Ingenuity Repairs the World. In this book, he describes
the motivations, ingenuity and persistence of Israelis of all faiths compelled by the spirit of tikkun olam – the traditional Jewish mandate to repair the world. This inspiring, must-read book has been translated into 30 languages. Jorisch is well published in other areas as well, with articles having appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Foreign Affairs, The Jerusalem Post, The Times of Israel, Forbes and on Al-Arabiya.net. “It is indeed fitting that Avi Jorisch will be part of Sarasota-Manatee’s 2020 commemoration of the end of World War II and the 75 years since the liberation of the Jews in Europe, since his writings show us how the fledgling State of Israel, home to Holo-
caust survivors and their families, immigrants and people of many faiths, has become a ‘light unto the nations,’” noted Temple Emanu-El Adult Education Co-Chair and Dalet representative Dr. Janet Hiller.
Tickets for the event are available for $18 in advance at www.sarasota temple.org, and will also be available for $25 at the door. For more information, please call 941.371.2788.
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Daughter of Holocaust hero to speak at Temple Beth Sholom
By Al Treidel | This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
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uth Bielski Ehrreich, the daughter of Holocaust hero Tuvia Bielski, will speak at Temple Beth Sholom in Sarasota on Tuesday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m. Tuvia Bielski and his brothers’ story was portrayed in the 2008 Hollywood movie Defiance starring Daniel Craig, Liev Schreiber and Jamie Bell. This program is co-sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota/Manatee, Butterflies of Hope and Remembrance, Temple Beth Israel and Temple Beth Sholom. The title of Ehrreich’s presentation is “Growing Up Bielski.” Many believe that the Bielski partisans’ achievement is on par with more famous acts of wartime courage such as those performed by Oskar Schindler and the heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. Tuvia Bielski, along with his
brothers Asael and Zus, led a group of cluding one man who lived in the Bielskis’ boyhood village. Ultimately, the Jewish partisans who hid in the forBielskis saved the lives of more than est. Although always hunted by the Germans, Bielski’s group continued to 1,200 Jews. grow. They periodically Ruth Bielski Ehrreich raided the ghettos to was born and raised in Israel (Palestine). She is help people escape. the daughter of Tuvia and As leader of the Bielski partisans, TuLilka Bielski. Ruth retired via’s aim was to save from the fashion industry the lives of Jews, where after almost 30 years as president of her apparel he could make a large impact. The partisans and footwear company. carried out attacks on When she is not volrailroads and roads that unteering at the hospital, her synagogue or the Nazis were using as Ruth Bielski Ehrreich various other Jewish and supply routes. At times, the Bielskis joined forces with Soviet community organizations, she travpartisans, engaging in guerrilla attacks els throughout the United States and abroad to share the powerful story of against the occupiers, raiding German her father Tuvia and his brothers. The convoys loaded with supplies, and killthree brothers formed the largest armed ing Nazi soldiers. They also sought out and executed Nazi collaborators, inJewish partisan brigade whose mission
was to save as many Jews as possible: men, women, children, the elderly and even the infirm. Ehrreich’s focus remains steadfast: to continue to promote public awareness about the Holocaust and to emphasize the heroic acts of resistance of the Bielski brothers. She also wants to ensure the story and legacy of her father Tuvia so that it remains in the forefront of Jewish history and Holocaust study. Only 250 seats are available for this presentation. Advance tickets are $15 and reservations may be made by calling the Temple Beth Sholom office at 941.955.8121 or at www.templebethsholomfl.org/events. If any tickets are available at the door, the cost will be $20. We anticipate a great demand for seats for this amazing program and encourage all interested individuals to purchase tickets as early as possible.
Tastes of Sephardic cooking and the Sephardic Israeli experience This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
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uring the last 30 years, Israeli cooking has truly arrived on the international scene. It now goes far, far beyond hummus, falafel, shakshuka, baba ghanoush and schnitzel (not that there’s anything wrong with these classic dishes). Much of the focus on new foods highlights the rise of Sephardic cooking. Its delightful range of spices, flavors, grains, produce and modern fusions have garnered considerable culinary attention. Sarasota Sister Cities is sponsoring
an opportunity to enjoy the tastes of professionally prepared contemporary Sephardic cooking, including appetizers, main dishes, sides and desserts, on Tuesday, February 18 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Sarasota Arts Center (located adjacent to the Municipal Auditorium on Tamiami Trail). There will be vegetarian items and, hopefully, leftovers for you to take home. In addition to enjoying wonderful food (for which the recipes will be provided), attendees will learn about the fascinating history of Sephardic Jewry
and about Tel Mond, Sarasota’s Sister City in Israel. The cost is $25. You don’t have to be a member of Sarasota Sister Cities to participate. Please contact Tel Mond Sarasota Sister City Community Director Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz at 941.366.2224 x166 or jkatz@jfcscares.org to make your reservation by Monday, February 10. The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is the sponsor organization for Sarasota Sister City’s Tel Mond relationship.
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February 2020
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Sarasota’s Jewish relationship with food By Kim Sheintal, President, Jewish Genealogical Society of SWFL
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here is a joke that every Jewish holiday can be summarized as, “They tried to kill us, we won, ible: let’s eat!” It is hard to document Jewish and traditions and history without mentionfast:ing food. Leah Koenig defined Jewish food wareem-in the online magazine Tablet. “My ce ofown definition, honed over the years ts toof fumbling to answer the question at r fa-cooking demonstrations, is that Jewfore-ish cuisine includes any dish that holds caustmeaningful cultural, historical or ritual significance to Jewish communities. forBut – and this is an important but – to s areidentify a dish as Jewish does not claim e byit as exclusively Jewish.” Finding Jewish food at restaurants ffice in Sarasota has always been a chalmplelenge. There were less than 500 Jews ckets living in Sarasota in 1950. The Fiesta, a will mandJewish-style restaurant owned by Saul andHaberman, opened in about 1949 at ls tothe northeast corner of Tamiami Trail le. and Proctor Road in Sarasota. From 1964-1988, Leonard and Helen Rothman owned Leonard’s of Sarasota, a catering service known for its Jewishstyle food. From 1967 until 1975, Dotty’s Kosher, a Jewish-style restaurant owned by Robert and Frances Kestenbaum, was on Main Street in Sarasota. After it closed, it reopened at the northwest corner of Hillview and Tamiami Trail, but closed the same year. From 1998 until 2004, The Big Kitchen on Clark Road, owned by Jerry Gips, was a popular eatery. Gips spoke at the Jewish Genealogical Society meeting in October 2004 about Jewish foods. The week prior to his presentation, word got out that The Big Kitchen was closing, thus making this program a big draw to the local community. The Noshery was located in the Shoppes of Bay Isles on Longboat Key for many years prior to the remodeling of that shopping center
in 2012. By 2012, Sarasota was ready for a locally owned Jewish restaurant to come to Sarasota. People were excited when Sol Meyer NYC Deli opened in 2015 at 1473 Main Street in Sarasota. In January 2016, Sol Shenker announced he split from his Sol Meyer business partners to open Sol’s NYC Deli. In February 2016, Sol’s NYC Deli opened
liver, brisket and NY pastrami. As of and Brooklyn Bagels & Deli. January 2020, Hotel Indigo began havFrom about 2003-2005, Morton’s ing Sol NYC Deli Days seven days a Gourmet Market owned the Kosher week from noon until 10:00 p.m. Corner, a kosher market. After the KoAround 1978, Mort Goodman and sher Corner closed, Leon, who worked Marvin Katz opened Sarasota’s first at the Kosher Corner, opened Leon’s, a bagel shop, the Bagel Inn, at 1902 Jewish market on Bahia Vista. Leon’s Bay Road. The Bagel Inn remained at was not kosher and was only open a that location until 1998. From about short time. Mattison’s and Michael’s 1980 until 1982, there was a Bagel On East can cater kosher events, beInn Bakery and a Bagel Inn cause Chabad of Sarasota has a sepaMain Street. From 1986 unrate set of dishes, and koshers the til 1999, bagel shops were facility upon request. The Jewish Federation of Saramultiplying in the Sarasota area with two Better Bagels, sota-Manatee has sponsored many two Bagelwich shops, two food festivals with a variety of JewManhattan Bagels, Einstein ish and Israeli foods. Temple Sinai and Bagels, Morty’s Bagel Café, Jewish Congregation of Venice have Brueger’s Bagels, Sarasota had annual Jewish food festivals for Bagel Café, and R & J Bagel more than 10 years. Chabad of SaraIn 1949, Leah Deitch and Becky Goldberg are seated in front of the Fiesta Restaurant Factory & Deli. The Better sota, with the Jewish Federation as a in the Main Plaza complex. In March Bagels at 7119 South Tamiami Trail sponsor, has an annual A Taste of Cha2016, Sol Meyer NYC Deli held a had kosher bagels, and no other bagel nukah Festival selling strictly kosher re-branding ceremony, and the deli at food. shop in Sarasota had kosher bagels 1473 Main Street became Doc Sam’s Jewish restaurants have been until Shapp’s Bagels opened in 2015. NYC Deli and Gourmet Eatery. In Febsparse in Sarasota, but as soon as a new Shapp’s Bagels closed in 2018. Bagel ruary 2017, Shenker relocated to Gulf restaurant or a food festival serving shops currently in Sarasota are Lox and Gate to share a space with Panificio. Jewish, Israeli or kosher food comes to Eggs, Einstein Bagels (aka Coffee & Shenker left that space in March 2018 town, it is the buzz of the community. Bagels), R & J Bagel Factory & Deli, to partner with the Starlite Room. The Starlite Room closed shortly thereafter. Shenker was Executive Chef at Hotel Indigo from 2011 until he opened Sol Meyer NYC Deli. In July 2018, Shenker returned We Specialize in... as Executive Chef at Hotel Indigo. In • Balance Retraining and Fall Prevention • Orthopedic and Neurological Rehabilitation mid-2019, a local customer at Hotel • Aquatic Physical Therapy Indigo asked Shenker for matzah ball • Individualized Fitness & Wellness Programs soup. The man enjoyed the soup so much that matzah ball soup was added as a menu special. One day, Shenker FALL RISK ASSESSMENT! had to make 20 gallons of matzah ball Call now to schedule, or stop in! soup. In the fall of 2019, Hotel Indigo Spelled Different Because We Are Different began having periodic Sol NYC Deli 5922 Cattlemen Lane, Suite 100, Sarasota, FL 34232 Days with half sour pickles and cole(941) 378-8977 www.FYZICAL.com slaw at each table, and menu items such as matzah ball soup, blintzes, chopped
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Songs of Peace and Joy: Celebrating 20 years of tikkun olam through song By Emily Tennenbaum | This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
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oin the Sarasota Jewish Chorale as we continue our tikkun olam (Repairing the World) through song at our Sunday, March 29 concert. Called Songs of Peace and Joy, our concert celebrates our 20th year of sharing the joy of Jewish music. This year we focus on what brings us together, rather than what separates
us, as Jews. Our musical selections, sung in English, Hebrew, Ladino, Yiddish and Swahili, are a collection of musical pieces about peace and joy. One such composition, “Shalom Aleichem,” sung at the start of Shabbat, brings blessings of connection and faith to our children, our households and our communities in a time-honored
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way that opens the hearts of all who listen. There is nothing more joyful than voices filling the air with a traditional niggun, a song without words, a way of expressing our love and connection to G-d. We bring you “Niggun Talmidei Besht” composed by the Baal Shem Tov, Rabbi Israel ben Eliezer, and originally sung by his students. “Over the Rainbow” from The Wizard of Oz, embodies our musical prayers for both peace and joy. As the lyrics say: “Troubles melt, that’s where you’ll find me.” This brings all of us
Thi together in Florida, where we frequent-The
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ly have blue skies and many rainbows, creating the awe and splendor that make positive connections within our men communities. Our concert, sponsored by Templering Beth Sholom, The Jewish Federationin re of Sarasota-Manatee and Dalet, willsalut be held at 4:00 p.m. at Temple Bethhave Sholom in Sarasota. Please visit ourstrea F website at sarasotajewishchorale.org for tickets ($20 in advance and $25 atSara the door) and more information. We10:4 look forward to entertaining you with& M another sold-out musical adventure! Jewi will Cert and sing elect way and “
“These we honor” Your Tributes ANNUAL CAMPAIGN IN HONOR OF Vera Charlotte Moskowitz Alan Moskowitz IN MEMORY OF Naomi Adelman Mildred & Donald Cole Jacqueline Levin Jeremy Lisitza David Brenner Lois Barson Sandra C. Hanan Ilene & Michael Fox Jeremy Lisitza Kimberly Mullins Rachel & Darren Saltzberg MAZEL TOV Barbara & Gary Ackerman Ilene & Michael Fox
ISRAEL PROGRAMS
IN HONOR OF Ella Collier The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
SKIP (Send a Kid to Israel Program) IN MEMORY OF Sandra Hanan Charlene Creel Patti & David Wertheimer
NOTE: To be publicly acknowledged in The Jewish News, Honor Cards require a minimum $10 contribution per listing. You can send Honor Cards directly from www.jfedsrq.org. For more information, call 941.552.6304.
While the rest of the country bundles for winter, the community at Aviva – A Campus for Senior Life is bustling with activity. Enjoy live music at the pool, day trips to Selby Gardens and the Dali Museum, or simply take a stroll along our natural hiking trails. Why should the weather stop you from experiencing the possibilities? Picture yourself at Aviva this winter!
Stroll. Beauty is our Promise. Spring into Lifestyle
1951 N. Honore Ave. • Sarasota, FL 34235
941.377.0781 www.AvivaSeniorLife.org
February 2020
COMMUNITY FOCUS
A sonic Jewish experience
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relates Community Chaplain Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz. “I appreciate and enjoy the sense of relaxation and spiritual openness it gives me. I’m pleased this experience is being offered for the greater community to discover.” The coordinated sounds utilize rhythms and intervals to reduce stress, enhance personal wholeness and reach higher states of consciousness. Limited to 16 people who will sit in anti-gravity chairs, this program is being offered by JFCS of the Suncoast’s Jewish Healing Program, which is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. The cost is $35. Participants will fill out a short questionnaire to share their reactions following the experience. For more information, please contact Rabbi Katz at 941.366.2224 x166 or jkatz@jfcs-cares.org.
Temple Sinai to hold festive Purim Ball Gala By Gail Glickman
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alling all Mordechais, Esthers, Achashveroshes, Vashtis and, hopefully, not too many Hamans, to Temple Sinai’s Purim Ball Gala on Saturday, March 7. Every year, members and guests of Temple Sinai come together for the temple’s annual gala. This year’s gala, just a few
Karen Witte, gala organizer, with Laurie Criden at the 2019 Temple Sinai gala
days before Purim, will have a Purim theme. We hope everyone will come in costume, but all are welcome with or without one. This Purim Ball Gala will surely be a night to remember as we celebrate and honor Temple Sinai’s new rabbi, Rabbi Samantha Kahn, and her family, and mark the arrival of the festive holiday of Purim. Temple Sinai recent-
discover...
ly held a formal installation of Rabbi Kahn presented by her longtime friend and mentor, Rabbi Laura Geller. Temple Sinai’s congregation has rejoiced in the atmosphere that Rabbi Samantha Kahn has created since her arrival July 1. This evening will be an opportunity to enjoy our continued welcome of Rabbi Kahn, her husband Matt, and their children Roey and Stella. The festivities at the gala will include a silent auction, a delicious dinner catered by Temple Sinai’s Chef Adam Woldman, lots of dancing, and a promise of a special and fun evening for all. The auction includes restaurant and boutique gift certificates, jewelry, artwork, golf outings, resort stays, as well as many other unique items. There will also be a 50-50 raffle. There is a range of sponsorship opportunities available, from $500 to $5,000. For details, contact Bonnie Sussman (941.993.9894, bsuss man@yahoo.com) or Robert Krasow (617.840.1181, robertkrasow@michael saunders.com). Once again, Karen Witte is coordinating the details for the gala. She can be reached at kwwitte@gmail.com or 941.666.8777.
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This program is Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee or centuries, sounds produced by the vibrations of singing bowls have enabled the attainment of both deep relaxation and stirring insight. However, it has only been in recent years that recognition of the salutary effects of this sonic healing have found their way into the mainstream. For probably the first time ever in Sarasota, on Sunday, February 16 from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, a sonic healing experience will feature Jewish spiritual elements. Certified sound healing professionals and musicians will provide a blend of singing bowls, rattles, tuning forks, electric violin and other modalities in ways designed to engender well-being and spiritual enrichment. “It’s exhilarating on many levels,”
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9th Annual A Taste of Chanukah Festival an awesome success This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
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by Steve Howard, the opportunity to purchase food, the photo booth, carnival games, silent auction, the ability to interact with our event sponsors, along with the kindling of the giant Lego Menorah created a family-friendly and heartwarming event where smiles, Jewish pride and laughter abounded. Although many participants eagerly anticipated the outdoor showering of chocolate Chanukah gelt from a helicopter flying ChuckO the Clown with Chirle Glinski, Lili Rosenberg, Sara Steinmetz and Ari Steinmetz over the park, and the mouthwatering menu offered each year by Michael’s On East at the A Taste of Chanukah Festival, the event brought together over 1,000 participants from all facets of the community to enjoy the spirit of the Chanukah holiday together with pride. The community calendars are full of holiday events, and A Taste of Chanukah events and other outdoor community events led by the other four Chabad chapters in the Sarasota-Manatee area assure that every Jewish child and adult can truly be proud of their rich heritage and experience an added dose of Jewish pride. For the event’s success, we are truly indebted to the following sponsors and volunteers who have been charitable, generous and thoughtful in helping us reach out to the community at large, and helping bring the glow of ARIEL BURGER A Study of February 13, 2020 • 7:00 pm • $18 the candles to illuminate the spirit and Elie Wiesel Beatrice Friedman Theater, 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota soul of our greater community: Premier Sponsors: The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, FamStep into Elie Wiesel’s classroom and join Ariel Burger, author of ily Practice Associates, Budweiser; Witness, in their conversations about ethics, activism, spirituality, Sponsors: Michael’s On East, Midas of and literature which transformed the lives of students from Sarasota, Hershorin Schiff Community around the world. Day School, Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Sunset Chevrolet Buick GMC, Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home, Rocket-
F THE O B LE
OK O
PEO P
he 9th annual A Taste of Chanukah Festival was well attended and fully enjoyed, despite the last-minute change of location from Phillippi Estate Park to Sarasota Square Mall. The change of location was announced three days prior to the event due to the expected inclement weather. The management at Sarasota Square Mall went above and beyond to help us pull all the logistics together. The Skyriders trampoline show, the live music by DJ CJ Koenig, the strolling magicians, face painting, ChuckO the Clown, the trumpet solo
man Shop, Sarasota Square Mall. We are also grateful to our many volunteers and regret if we inadvertently omitted a volunteer’s name: Sam Schneider, Mia Schneider, Jonah Schneider, Elizabeth Weber, Herman Weber, Mark Schlanger, Larry Henderson, Kelly Dietz, Max Serebro, Ella Steinmetz, Mendel Steinmetz, Itzik Safranovich, Mendel Zirkind, Chaya Schotzinger, Grace Rosman, Martin Rosman, Stanley Glauser, Leah Suffin, Shaya Suffin, Sadie Laufer, Ari Steinmetz, Chana Steinmetz, Allie Fraidowitz, Morris Weinstein, Paecia Weinstein, Marsha Goldsby, Hank Goldsby, Levi Steinmetz, Shaiel Jones, Eden Jones, Sadie Siegel, Evabella Serebro, Jim Haberman, Paige Jones, Jakob Dubin and Michelle Read.
C at
New Author Lecture Series!
JOSH FRANK
A Surrealist in Hollywood
March 8, 2020 • 7:00 pm • $10 Beatrice Friedman Theater, 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota
Giraffes on Horseback Salad, now a graphic novel, relives the Marx Brothers film first written by Salvador Dali. Recreated by author Josh Frank in partnership with comedian Tim Heideck and Spanish comics creator Manuela Pertega, the film comes to life on pages in all its gorgeous, full-color, cinematic, surreal glory.
JACK FAIRWEATHER / SARAH ROSE April 21, 2020 • 10:30 am • $10
Beatrice Friedman Theater, 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota
Heroes of the Resistance
Jack Fairweather, author of The Volunteer: One Man, an Underground Army, and Sarah Rose, author of D-Day Girls: The Spies Who Armed the Resistance, Sabotaged the Nazis and Helped Win World War II, will present a panel discussion on heroes of the resistance during World War II.
To order tickets visit:
jfedsrq.org/books or call 1-888-718-4253, Option 1 FEDERATION TORCH SPONSORS EDIE & DAVID CHAIFETZ | LEON R. & MARGARET M. ELLIN | DEBBIE & LARRY HASPEL ROSENTHAL ROOTS FAMILY FOUNDATION | SYLVIA & NORMAN SAMET BUNNY & MORT SKIRBOLL | HADASSAH & MARTIN STROBEL | LOIS STULBERG
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Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz announces the number of Lego pieces in the Lego Menorah
Scholar-in-Residence at Temple Emanu-El
T
emple Emanu-El proudly anSaturday’s presentation – preceded nounces presentations by Kaby “Coffee with the Scholar” at 10:00 plan Scholar-in-Residence Dr. a.m. – is titled “Creativity and History Sarah Bunin Benor on Friday, February of Jewish Names.” This session asks: 21 at 7:15 p.m., and Saturday, FebruWhat makes a family name Jewish? ary 22 at 10:30 a.m. Professor of ConHow do Jews around the world select temporary Jewish Studies at Hebrew names for their babies? Participants Union College in Los Angeles, Dr. will learn about patronymic surnames Benor specializes in sociology as well like Abramovitch, Isaacs and Yaghobias language and literaan; geographic names ture. like Ashkenazi, DardaDuring Shabbat sershti and Shapiro; and vices on Friday evening, profession names like Dr. Benor will speak on Hakim, Melamed and “Jewish English: How Fingerhut. “They will American Jews Speak,” also be introduced to focusing on the queschanges in American tion: Is it possible that Jewish baby names Jews today continue the throughout the 20th centuries-old tradition century and beyond,” of speaking distinctly Dr. Benor said. “And,” Dr. Sarah Bunin Benor from their non-Jewish she added, “they will neighbors? “This talk looks at sevhear about names Jews select for dogs, eral features common among Jewish cats and other pets.” languages of the past and discusses Temple Emanu-El’s Scholar-inwhether American Jews use them,” Dr. Residence weekend – generously unBenor explains. “Through analysis of derwritten by Arny and Dee Kaplan language, we can gain a better underand the Peck family – is open to the standing of contemporary American community at no charge. For more inJews and how they compare to Jewish formation, please call 941.371.2788. communities of the past.”
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February 2020
COMMUNITY FOCUS
19A
Jewish Food Festival at Jewish Congregation of Venice By Cynthia Greene | This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
B
ack by popular demand, the eagerly awaited 26th annual Jewish Food Festival at the Jewish manyCongregation of Venice (600 North dver-Auburn Road) will take place on Suname:day, February 16 from 10:00 a.m. to onah4:00 p.m. In addition to Jewish delicacies man Hen-prepared by the bakers at the Jewebro,ish Congregation of Venice (JCV), metz,the festival features piled-high corned kind,beef and pastrami sandwiches, stuffed man,cabbage, knishes, kugel, chicken and Leahmatzah ball soups, brisket platter, and ufer,a whole lot more. New this year is a Al-booth selling wine and beer. Credit tein,cards are accepted. The festival also features a flea dsby, Shai-market, book and jewelry sales, conegel, man, helle
tinuous entertainment, vendor booths and raffle sales. Over 5,000 visitors from Venice and surrounding communities flock to the festival each year to purchase food and treasures. Over two-thirds of the synagogue’s membership participate in advance planning, and work tirelessly
the actual day of the festival. JCV bakers take over the kitchen in early December, committees rev up and begin recruiting volunteers, provisions are ordered, etc. The ad book committee solicits ads. Posters and flyers are put up throughout Venice. Donations for the flea market are stacked in one of
Baked goods at last year’s Jewish Food Festival
the JCV classrooms. It is an enormous undertaking by this dedicated congregation, which understands that the bulk of its operating revenue comes from this one yearly event. In turn, the community responds with great enthusiasm and hearty appetites. Almost no one leaves without an armful of bags filled with knishes, chopped liver and stuffed cabbage to be frozen for the future. Spend an hour or an afternoon eating and drinking at one of the tables set up near the entertainers. There’s no better way to spend a Sunday in Venice. For more information about the festival, call 941.484.2022 weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Chabad of Sarasota honors the Landmans at its 25th annual gala
C
habad of Sarasota will honor Randy and Robert Landman at its 25th annual gala at Michael’s On East on Tuesday, March 3 at 6:30 p.m. Randy and Bob first visited Sarasota in 2012 in their motor home, and stayed down the street from Chabad. In the week they were here, they became instant friends with Sara and Rabbi
DIANE LAWSON, CCIM
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tive in Chabad and the Sarasota Jewish community. Bob serves on Chabad’s Board of Directors and is on the LIFE & LEGACY™ committee. He participates in the daily minyan, attends Talmud Class and JLI programs. He also serves as Treasurer of Hershorin Schiff Community Day School and has been a Jewish Federation board member. Randy is a Rebbetzin Circle sponsor for Chabad’s women’s group and a member of the Federation’s Pomegranate Society. Both are members of AIPAC’s Washington and Congressional Clubs. Randy and Bob are staunch supporters and influential members in our community, who also offer hands-on assistance and constantly volunteer their time for the furtherance of our
Robert and Randy Landman
mission to bring Judaism with a smile to every Jew regardless of background or affiliation. The cost for the dinner is $180. To receive an invitation or to place an advertisement in the gala journal, call the Chabad office at 941.925.0770 or email info@chabadofsarasota.com.
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20A
February 2020
COMMUNITY FOCUS
Major Gifts Major Gifts Dinner AN EVENING WITH
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Celebrating Your Legacy
deborah lipstadt Tuesday, February 25, 2020 5:00pm Sarasota Municipal Auditorium Sarasota
DR. DEBORAH E. LIPSTADT,
Dorot professor of Holocaust Studies at Emory University in Atlanta, has published and taught about the Holocaust for close to 40 years. The author of six books and numerous articles, Lipstadt is probably most widely known because of the libel lawsuit brought against her in 1996 by David Irving for having called him a Holocaust denier. Irving was then arguably the world’s leading denier. Join us to hear Professor Lipstadt’s thoughts on anti-Semitism in today’s world.
SAVE THE DATE
Dinner Co-Chairs Nancy Jacobson
Thursday, April 2, 6:00 pm at Michael’s On East with
and
Keynote Speaker Rabbi Daniel Cohen
Hannah Weinberg
Couvert will include reserved seating at the community lecture featuring Deborah Lipstadt immediately following dinner.
Rabbi Cohen shares his unique blend of wisdom and spiritual insight. He is the author of What Will They Say About You When You Are Gone? Creating a Life of Legacy, and Senior Rabbi of Congregation Agudath Sholom in New England.
Lead Sponsor
Hannah and Norman Weinberg
Gold Sponsor QUESTIONS? Contact Gisele Pintchuck 941.707.0029 or gpintchuck@jfedsrq.org
Event Chair: Nelle S. Miller
Minimum gift of $6,000 to the 2020 development efforts of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is required.
For more information, please contact Gisele Pintchuck at 941.706.0029 or gpintchuck@jfedsrq.org.
LAH L I H KE
REFUAH SH LE MA
SURVIVOR TRIBE SRQ FOR TEENS & COLLEGE STUDENTS Meet Ethan Zohn, who will share stories on: • Winning Survivor: Africa • Surviving his teenage years • Connecting to Judaism and Israel Ethan will also lead a Survivor game challenge. Stay for dinner afterwards and then attend Ethan’s Community Presentation for free!
February 9
5:00 p.m.
Cost
$
5pp
FOR THE COMMUNITY Hear Ethan speak about his journey of survival through: • Navigating his connection to Judaism and Israel • Crushing cancer, twice • Moving from “Sole Survivor” to humanitarian
February 9
7:00 p.m.
Cost
$
18pp
TIK K U N OLA M
An Evening with
ETHAN ZOHN Winner of Hit Reality TV Show, Survivor: Africa
Sunday, February 9
ABOUT ETHAN ETHAN ZOHN is a former professional soccer player, cancer survivor, winner of the hit reality television show Survivor: Africa and co-founder of Grassroot Soccer. As demonstrated by his charitable work, volunteerism, and community involvement, Ethan believes that a better and healthier world can be achieved through education, advocacy and inspiration.
KIDS
SPONSORED BY
Beatrice Friedman Theater
The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life 582 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota
For more information, please contact
Andrea Eiffert at 941.552.6308 or aeiffert@jfedsrq.org.
Please register at JFEDSRQ.org/Events
FAM
J
February 2020
COMMUNITY FOCUS
21A
Israel Bonds holds exclusive event with Ambassador Ron Dermer at Bryan Glazer Family JCC in Tampa
D
evelopment Corporation for Israel/Israel Bonds held an exclusive event with Ambassador Ron Dermer, Israel’s ambassador to the United States, at the Bryan Glazer Family JCC in Tampa on December 18, which included a cocktail supper and remarks from the ambassador. At the engagement, Ambassador Dermer spoke about Israel’s success and achievements, underscoring the fact that Israel represents 1/10 of 1% of the world’s population, yet attracts 20% of worldwide investment in technology. Israel Maimon, president and CEO of Israel Bonds, extended gratitude to Ambassador Dermer, saying, “Thanks to Mr. Dermer, relations between Israel and the United States have never been stronger. Ambassador Dermer is a close friend of Israel Bonds who has spoken on our behalf with eloquence and passion on countless occasions.” The event was held by Israel Bonds’ Tampa Bay office, under the
leadership of Assistant Executive Director Monica DiGiovanni, and Vladi Yurovsky, Executive Director for Miami-Dade/Broward County, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The event brought together Israel Bonds leaders and investors from around the region and generated more than $3 million of new Israel bonds investments and indications to invest at press time.
About Israel Bonds Development Corporation for Israel/ Israel Bonds ranks among Israel’s most valued economic and strategic resources, with a record of proven success spanning nearly 70 years. Praised for its dependability, the Bonds organization has helped build every sector of Israel’s economy. Partnering in Israel’s success story through investment in
Brian Taub, Israel Bonds general chair for the North, West and Central Florida region, Ambassador Ron Dermer, Debbie Taub
Israel bonds is global in scope. Worldwide sales have exceeded $44 billion since the first bonds were issued in 1951. Proceeds from the sale of Israel bonds have played a decisive role in Israel’s rapid evolution into a groundbreaking, global leader in high-tech, greentech and biotech.
Steven Warren, MD, Tampa Bay Israel Bonds chair, Ambassador Ron Dermer, Diana Sager (photos courtesy Ray Bassett)
Scholar-in-Residence at Temple Beth Sholom
D
Program: r. Richard Freund will be the Friday evening, February 28: Shabhonored Scholar-in-Residence bat dinner at 5:30 p.m. (must RSVP), at Temple Beth Sholom for followed by the evening service which the weekend of February 28 - March will include Dr. Freund’s presentation 1. He is the Bertram and Gladys Aaron on “Holy Archaeology.” He has inendowed professor of Jewish Studies vestigated some of the holiest sites in at Christopher Newport University in the world and will discuss what these Virginia. He has pioneered a new form synagogues and churches tell us about of fieldwork, involving noninvasive religion. geoscience technologies. Saturday mornHe has also directed over ing, February 29: a dozen archeological During the Shabbat sites in Israel. service there will be Dr. Freund’s work a presentation titled has been featured in The “Parasha and ArchaeNew York Times, Smithology.” This will be sonian, Reader’s Digest, followed by a KidNewsweek, TIME and dush luncheon, and by Archaeology, and on mea Shabbat schmooze dia outlets worldwide inpresentation on “The cluding the BBC, CNN, Holy Tabernacle in the MSNBC, NPR and Fox Dr. Richard Freund Desert.” News. Sunday morning, March 1: Dr. Freund’s work has also been Breakfast, sponsored by the temple’s featured in 20 television documentaMen’s Club, and a presentation titled ries from National Geographic, CNN, “Escape from the Holocaust: GeosciDiscovery Channel, History Channel ence and Archaeology.” This engaging and PBS. His most recent work in Lithand in-depth presentation recounts the uania has been chronicled in a highly dramatic escape from the Ponar camp acclaimed NOVA PBS science series that occurred during Passover, 1944. episode, “Holocaust Escape Tunnel,” Only 11 survived to recount the story. on the new discoveries made in the This program is sponsored by Dr. Ponar Burial Pits and the Great SynaWilliam Freund of Temple Beth Shogogue of Vilna, Lithuania. lom. Dr. Freund has authored more All special presentations during than 100 scholarly articles and eleven services and the breakfast program are books (written or co-edited). His latest free. To register and pay for the dinner, books include Digging through History or for program details, please call the (2012) and Archaeology of the Holotemple office at 941.955.8121 or visit caust: Vilna, Rhodes, and Escape Tuntemplebethsholomfl.org/events. nels (2019).
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22A
February 2020
JEWISH INTEREST
A Pulitzer-worthy investigation of escaped war criminals Book review by Philip K. Jason, Special to The Jewish News
well as legal experts, slowly excavated ter untold thousands of Jews in the facts needed to turn the tide and Trawniki, Poland, where, in the bring such people to justice. early 1940s, the Nazis set up a In Citizen 865, author Debbie Cen“school” for committing mass ziper provides stunning insights into murder. these Nazi hunters’ skills, accomplishThe book’s attention-gethen Adolf Hitler’s defeat ments and dedication. She retraces ting opening focuses on the in World War II was imtheir steps, giving us two layers of story of 19-year-old Feliks minent, a great number of investigation. We learn how these proWojcik and Lucyna StryjewsNazi functionaries made their way to fessionals went about their work, inka, a few years younger. It is a the United States terpreted the law and prevailed in their story of overwhelming threats and essentially cases. We also learn quite a bit about to their lives and communities. These hid in plain sight. how Cenziper did her own investigacharacters are vividly drawn individuThey moved into tion of the investigators, making the als scrambling to survive the Nazi proAmerican cities case for our appreciation grams built to annihilate and suburbs, took of their efforts. them. It is set in Lublin, a on new identiTo accomplish this, Polish town rich in Jewish ties, and successshe provides capsule bihistory and institutions, fully evaded any ographies of many key but now without support responsibility or Phil Jason figures, illuminating their for Jewish survival. The punishment for ambition, their frustrahorrors of Feliks and Lutheir crimes. They obtained citizentions, their sacrifices, their cyna’s experiences bring ship. home life, their intellithem together, and readers Though attempts were made to gence and their courage. are temporarily left wonbring these war criminals to justice, They are real people we dering about their chances most cases failed. Many plausible leads get to know and like. for a future, allowing the were never pursued. However, the DeDebbie Cenziper The title of the book refers to Jakob author to paint a different section of partment of Justice’s Office of Special Reimer, one of the monsters who did her broad canvas. Investigations (OSI), in part by hiring what he was told and helped slaughThat includes bringing into sharp capable and committed historians, as focus Reimer’s trial, a small masterpiece within the larger one that is Citizen 865. Reimer’s studied yet congenial nature made him an excellent defendant, but the facts presented by the OSI finally revealed his true nature and criminality. Like many other incognito former Nazis, Reimer lived in a neighborhood very much like those inhabited by anall of your favorite Jewish other group of immigrants: Jews who organizations, clubs and service providers online. survived the Holocaust and migrated to the U.S. to build new lives, perhaps shopping at the same supermarkets as the hidden SS functionaries and other mass murderers of the Third Reich. Keyword Search Filter Options Drop Pin Locator Map Reimer might even have been a Citizen 865: The Hunt for Hitler’s Hidden Soldiers in America, by Debbie Cenziper. Hachette Books. 320 pages. Hardcover $28.00.
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neighbor of Lucyna and Feliks, whose saga fills the beginning of the book. Toward the end, we discover that the couple married in the Warsaw Ghetto, lived through hell, made it to the U.S., raised a family, enjoyed grandchildren and realized most – if not all – of their dreams. Passionate, provocative and artfully constructed, this fully engaging work of deeply humanized scholarship is a fine addition to the literature of the Holocaust and its aftermath. It could very well bring Debbie Cenziper her second Pulitzer. Debbie Cenziper is an investigative journalist, professor and author based in Washington, D.C. A contributing reporter for the investigative team at The Washington Post, she has won many major awards in print journalism, including the 2007 Pulitzer Prize. Cenziper is the co-author of the critically acclaimed Love Wins: The Lovers and Lawyers Who Fought the Landmark Case for Marriage Equality. She was recently named the Director of Investigative Journalism at the Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism. This review first appeared in Washington Independent Review of Books and is reprinted by permission. Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeritus of English from the United States Naval Academy. He reviews regularly for Florida Weekly, Washington Independent Review of Books, Southern Literary Review, other publications and the Jewish Book Council. Please visit Phil’s website at www.philjason.word press.com.
Helping you live the life you want, the way you want. See You In February Wednesdays:
The Original Brown Bag with Rabbi Geoff Huntting
February
1:
February
7:
February
13:
Men’s Club Soiree; a Night of Trivia and Dance Rhythm & Jews Shabbat Service and Connect with Sinai Perlman Concert & Reception
• Personal Care • Daily Living Assistance • Light Housekeeping • Skilled Nursing • Dementia Specialists
For more information on upcoming events and Temple Sinai, visit SinaiSRQ.org
• Respite Care and Family Relief • Inpatient Hospital Sitters • And Much More …
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February 2020
JEWISH INTEREST
23A
ls Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing old A dangerous combination: Drug abuse and older adults
cyna sagaBy Rabbi Barbara Aiello g of t was touch and go but Sam surthe vived open heart surgery. Although that he had just turned 83, Sam was ren thecovering well, and his sons Jake and ived Zack were grateit to ful and relieved. mily, As they left the dren hospital, Zack f not reminded Sam that they’d have artto make a stop. ging “You only have ship enough pain pills f the for three days,” ould Rabbi Barbara Aiello Zack said. “We herneed to fill the prescription so you’ll have pills for the next two weeks.” tiga“No way,” Sam bellowed. “I’m not uthortaking that stuff. I know what happens. ibut-You want more and more. Listen, kids. eamIf I’m hurting, I’ll take some aspirin. wonThat way I won’t get hooked and turn rnal-into a drug addict!” rize. Jake and Zack rolled their eyes, criti-shook their heads, passed the pharversmacy and made for home. But both of and-Sam’s sons were confident that in time Shethey could convince Dad to “take his r ofmedicine.” orthNot so many years ago, Sam’s ol ofreluctance to take prescription pain killers was seen as an overreaction. AfWash-ter all, drug addicts, according to the ooksstereotype, were street people, ne’erdo-wells and criminals. Seniors who ritusneeded pain medication were in no danNa-ger of joining that group. Maybe so, but y forSam’s sentiment wasn’t so far off. penAccording to Drs. Mehmet Oz and Lit-Mike Roizen, “The United States has and4.6% of the world’s population, but visitconsumes 80% of the world’s opioids, word(while) a recent study found 25% of older Americans who are prescribed
I
Xanax or Valium to help them sleep or quell anxiety become hooked.” Oz and Roizen claim that these percentages translate into an even more shocking statistic: more than two million seniors are addicted to prescription drugs. Senior abuse of alcohol and prescription medications is one of the fastest growing health problems in the United States. Add ethnic issues into the mix and professionals find that drug abuse among Jewish seniors is of particular concern. The New Jewish Home in New York City reports that “There is a pervasive myth that addiction is not a Jewish issue… The myth that Jews are somehow protected from addiction reinforces shame and isolation and can inhibit Jewish seniors from seeking needed help.” For this reason, The New Jewish Home sprang into action, creating the Geriatric Substance Abuse Recovery Program. Launched just three years ago, it is the first nursing home-based, in-patient substance abuse program in the United States. The goal of the program is a straightforward one: trained mental health professionals and addiction specialists work with clients “to ensure that Jewish individuals and their families who are impacted by addiction find support within the Jewish community and receive education and a safe space to receive support.” Recently, similar programs have surfaced, each one emphasizing that, just as young children and adolescents have psychological needs specific to their age and stage, the same holds true for drug-addicted seniors. Writing in the Pacific Standard, journalist Chelsea Carmona highlights the dangers
of drug abuse among the elderly and notes that apart from The New Jewish Home program, there are only two other in-house elderly addiction recovery programs (Florida and Mississippi) in the entire United States. Which begs the question: What can be done? If our aging mother or father seems to be self-medicating with a strong opioid, or if an elderly person realizes that he is drug dependent, where can they turn for help? Drs. Oz and Roizen suggest that a visit to a general physician is an important first step, but even more important, seniors and their family members should emphasize to their doctor that the problem is serious. They should press for referrals to psychologists, addiction specialists and support groups that are designed especially for older adults, and choose a program that offers psychological maintenance and relapse prevention. Above all, seniors should be honest about how addiction is affecting their lives. Author Debra Jay discusses the doctor and elderly patient relationship in her book, Aging and Addiction. She writes that some physicians have internalized the myth that either old people do not have drug problems, or that when they do, it’s just too late to address addiction in any meaningful way. Jay goes on to say that, “Even if a doctor approaches the issue, the older adult may simply switch doctors or deny a problem exists.” The author points out that, “It is usually the adult children who decide to take action and help motivate an older parent to accept treatment, through either informal or formal intervention.” Easier said than done, especially
when an addicted parent’s behavior is manipulative, erratic or abusive. Our Jewish traditions teach us to honor our parents, but as one Aish Rabbi emphasized, “That does not require honoring the sickness in them.” Where substance abuse is concerned, the aging senior is suffering from a disease – often hidden and unacknowledged. But if statistics are even moderately accurate, it’s a serious disease that needs understanding, attention and prompt intervention. For 10 years Rabbi Barbara Aiello served the Aviva Campus for Senior Life as resident rabbi. She is rabbi of the Reconstructionist synagogue, Ner Tamid del Sud in south Italy, and serves as visiting rabbi in Rhodes, in the oldest synagogue in Greece. Contact her at Rabbi@RabbiBarbara.com.
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24A
February 2020
JEWISH INTEREST
The horror that was Gross-Rosen By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD
I
n February 1945 – 75 years ago this month – Gross-Rosen, a large Nazi concentration camp located near the village of the same name (now Rogoźnica, Poland), was liberated by Soviet forces. We tend to think of the Nazi concentration camps being liberated in April and May of 1945, but after Auschwitz at the end of January 1945, Dr. Paul Bartrop Gross-Rosen was an early example of the horror that was to confront Allied forces later. Located about 40 miles southwest of Wrocław in modern-day Poland, Gross-Rosen was at once a concentration and a forced labor camp. Built initially in 1940 as a sub-camp of Sachsenhausen, on May 1, 1941, it became independent. Eventually, it would encompass some 97 sub-camps, where prisoners were put to work in a nearby granite quarry. Here, large numbers died. In many of these sub-camps where prisoners were exploited as slave labor, conditions were deplorable. Food was meager and poor, sanitation primitive, and medical care virtually nonexistent. Thousands fell victim to starvation and diseases, and large numbers were killed arbitrarily by guards through beatings and cruel punishments. Jews were not allowed to receive medical
care and were forbidden from talking to other prisoners. All those sent into slave labor conditions were severely overworked, and many simply collapsed where they stood. Hanna Granek Erlich was one of these slave workers. She was sent to a factory sub-camp at Peterswaldau, where a weapons manufacturing plant was located. At night, she recalled, “we slept in a room with over 50 women. We slept downstairs on bunks covered with straw, and over us, upstairs, the men used to sleep.” Conditions, she remembered, were dreadful. The hall was filthy, and the prisoners were full of lice. Hanna worked seven days a week, from morning to night, and “didn’t dare make a mistake.” These were met by German guards who, she said, “would beat us or even kill us.” When Gross-Rosen was first opened, most prisoners were political detainees, resistance fighters, or those deemed “socially unacceptable” such as gay men or Roma. The number of prisoners in the camp rose steadily, however, from an initial 1,500 or so in 1941. In late 1943 and early 1944, Jews began arriving at Gross-Rosen and its sub-camps in large numbers, until they formed the biggest single group in the camp complex. It is estimated that at least 125,000 prisoners passed through Gross-Rosen between 1941 and 1945, and even in late 1944, just before the camp’s liberation, Gross-Rosen and its
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sub-camps held 76,728 prisoners. A census of the camp population in January 1945 indicated that almost 26,000 women were also incarcerated there. This represented one of the largest aggregations of female prisoners in any of the German concentration camps outside of the women’s concentration camp at Ravensbrück and the massive Auschwitz complex. The census revealed that most of the Jews at Gross-Rosen had been relocated there from camps in Poland and Hungary. Set to work under the close supervision of sadistic Nazi guards, they suffered under especially cruel working conditions. As the war progressed and Germany’s demands began relying more and more on forced labor, the reach of the Gross-Rosen complex became one of the largest in all of Europe. At the end of 1943, transports of Jews to Gross-Rosen and its sub-camps, located throughout Lower Silesia and the Sudetenland, intensified. Eventually, prisoners worked throughout eastern Germany and western Poland for companies like I.G. Farben, Daimler-Benz and Krupp. Some of the sub-camps focused on “special” Nazi projects deep underground. Brünnlitz, one of Gross-Rosen’s sub-camps, became famous later. German industrialist Oskar Schindler relocated his factory there. At Brünnlitz, in unique circumstances, he managed to protect some 1,100 Jews working in his factory, at the same time ensuring that they did not suffer from the same tortures inflicted elsewhere. He also made sure that his factory did not produce anything of value for the German war effort. When Soviet troops began approaching the complex at the end of
The Life Story of Anne Frank
PUBLIC PROGRAM
HOW DID AMERICAN WOMEN ACT?
HEROISM ON THE HOME FRONT Wednesday, February 19, 7 p.m. Temple Beth Sholom 1050 South Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota
Women’s roles changed significantly in World War II America. Many were conscripted to join the war effort and wielded new power through jobs outside the home. But, their influence wasn’t limited to factory floors. Some women used their social and political positions to fight back against isolationism and sound the alarm about the plight of Europe’s Jews. A select few even put their lives at risk to organize acts of rescue.
The story of Anne Frank told in a modern way, addressing current day issues of identity, exclusion, and discrimination. This exhibition also features a Virtual Reality (VR) component that allows the visitor to travel back in time to Anne Frank’s hiding place, the “Secret Annex.”
Join us to explore the role of the everyday woman during this era, as well as the mindset and motivations of a few extraordinary individuals who dared to act, including Lois Gunden, Edith Rogers, and Eleanor Roosevelt. This program is free and open to the public, but reservations are required at ushmm.org/events/women-sarasota. For more information, please contact the Museum’s Southeast Regional Office at 561.995.6773 or southeast@ushmm.org.
Co-presented with
PHOTO: Women attend an airplane construction class at a vocational school in DeLand, Florida, in April 1942. Library of Congress
Let Me Be Myself was developed by the Anne Frank House and is sponsored in North America by the Anne Frank Center for Mutual Respect. Images: ©AFF/AFH – Basel/Amsterdam. The VR experience provided by Oculus Education.
HOLOCAUST
55 5th St. S. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 • 727-820-0100 • www.TheFHM.org
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January 1945, camp officials began the process of closing Gross-Rosen and its sub-camps. Male prisoners were relocated to the main camp from the exter-Phila nal sites, while the women were forcedperfo onto cruel death marches where manyty of died. The destination of these marcheser Pa was, for the most part, other camps deep inside Germany. In total, up to 40,000 prisoners underwent this brutal trial, in bitterly cold weather. The rest of the camp, and most of those in the sub-camps, were evacuated from the beginning of February 1945. Some of the remaining Jews were transported to Bergen-Belsen, while others were sent to Buchenwald, Flossenbürg, Mauthausen and Dora- A Mittelbau. The few remaining prison-duct ers still in the sub-camps, by the endlery/ of the war, were liberated by Soviettribu troops on May 8-9, 1945. extra In sum, it has been estimated thatposs about one third of all those who passedlived through Gross-Rosen died as a resultthis of their experiences between 1940 and M February 1945. When we think aboutGins the horror of the Holocaust, it is worthbeen remembering that it was played out inon l more places than Auschwitz or the oth-ten t er extermination camps, or locations infrien the villages of Russia, or the ghettosnine scattered throughout Poland and else-albu where. One of the lesser-known placesalize of terror and death, liberated 75 yearsThe ago this month, was Gross-Rosen –oper and there were a vast number of oth-salut ers throughout the German sphere thatJusti would share similar experiences in theceleb coming months. ed S Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of HisT tory and the Director of the Centercont for Judaic, Holocaust, and Genocidedays Studies at Florida Gulf Coast Univer-a let sity. He can be reached at pbartrop@tice fgcu.edu. en w
Let Me Be Myself:
Opens January 25, 2020 at The Florida Holocaust Museum
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100 Raoul Wallenberg Place, SW Washington, DC 20024-2126
February 2020
JEWISH INTEREST
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“The Notorious RBG in Song” By Arlene Stolnitz
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December program at the National Museum of American Jewish History (NMAJH) in Philadelphia featured a unique musical performance by well-known University of Chicago faculty soprano-composer Patrice Michaels, daughter-in-law of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The program was part of a larger initiative honoring Justice Ginsburg. Other events honoring RBG included the “Only in America” award Arlene Stolnitz and RBG’s induction into the “Only in America Gallery/Hall of Fame,” part of NMAJH’s tribute to Jews who have achieved extraordinary accomplishments that possibly have changed the world. If I lived closer, I would not have missed this event! Ms. Michaels, married to James Ginsburg, son of Justice Ginsburg, has been composing, in secret, songs based on letters in RBG’s possession written to and from family members and friends over many years. The cycle of nine songs is sung by Michaels, and the album was produced by James, who realized what a treasure the songs were. The result is a collection of music, in operatic style (an RBG preference), saluting the life and achievements of Justice Ginsburg as a legal pioneer in celebration of her 25 years on the United States Supreme Court. The 40-minute classical album contains moments from her law school days, her early working life, and even a letter she received early on from Justice Douglas asking for qualified women who might apply for a position on
the Supreme Court. Interesting family anecdotes contain material about RBG and her pot roast, after which she was banned from the kitchen forever. One selection, “Anita’s Story,” is based on letters written by Justice Ginsburg’s husband Martin, which he had compiled for a book commemorating her 50th birthday. The song tells the experience of a typist, Anita, in Ginsburg’s office, who was influenced by legal briefs she was typing. At first, she was puzzled over the content of the briefs, not understanding what she was typing. Later, when she did understand, she became a staunch feminist. Another, entitled “Celia: An Imagined Letter from 1949,” written by Michaels, recounts RBG’s memory of her mother, who died of cancer the day before the future Justice’s graduation as valedictorian of her high school. According to Michaels, Justice Ginsburg once said, “My mother told me to be a lady, and for her, that meant be your own person, be independent.” “The Elevator Thief,” one of the most amusing songs on the album, is about the shenanigans of RBG’s son, Jim, at school. In an NPR interview, Ginsburg recounted her conversation with the principal. “This child has two parents. Please alternate calls.” The headmaster did so, and Marty Ginsburg went to school to find out what his son’s offense was. When told “he had stolen the elevator,” Marty responded, “Well how far could he have taken it?” According to Jim (dubbed The Elevator Thief), his behavior did not improve, but the calls home did become less frequent when they had to consider bothering a “man” for his son’s mischievous pranks. The text of the most poignant song is from the last communication written
by Martin to his wife during the time of his terminal illness. Remarkably, according to Ms. Michaels, Justice Ginsburg was willing to share it for the album. “My dearest Ruth, you are the only person I have loved in my life…” It is the first and only time Ruth Bader Ginsburg was seen to cry. All songs are sung by Ms. Michaels with some collaboration by other composers. The album has been released recently and is entitled “The Notori-
ous RBG in Song,” available on James Ginsburg’s label, Cedille Records. Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sarasota Jewish Chorale, is a member of the Jewish Congregation of Venice. A retired educator from Rochester, New York, she has sung in choral groups for over 25 years and also sings in The Venice Chorale. Her interest in the preservation of Jewish music of all kinds has led to this series of articles on Jewish Folk Music in the Diaspora.
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February 2020
JEWISH INTEREST
K’zohar Ha-Ivrit Etz – Tree
Temple Beth Israel 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key
By Dr. Rachel Zohar Dulin
Temple Beth Israel, The Center of Jewish Living on Longboat Key
The Rabbi Michael B. Eisenstat Miniversity of Judaism - 2020
All events are $15 at the door and $10 with advance reservations
CALL 941-383-3428 TO REGISTER. Free to Temple members.
TEMP MEM LE BERS ADM ISSIO N
Most events start at 2:00 pm. Check and register on line www.tbi-lbk.org
REMEMBERING ANNE FRANK NINETY YEARS LATER Diane Steinbrink Tuesday, February 4th, 2020 - 2:00 pm
In this lecture, Diane will discuss the original DIARY of 1952 and the newer edition published in 1995 that added newly discovered pages. She will also present characters from the original play THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK from 1955 by Goodrich and Hackett and from the adapted version by Wendy Kesselman from 1997. She will talk about the talent and personality of this teen, wise beyond her years, and the legacy that she has left through her words and ideas. This program has special meaning since 2019 was the ninetieth anniversary of Anne’s birth. Date
Instructor
Title
Feb. 10
Rabbi Richard Steinbrink Ancient & Modern Day Miracles
Feb. 18, 24 Rabbi/Cantor Jon Haddon
Jewish Lithurgical Music
Feb. 20, 27 Rabbi Michael B. Eisenstat The Term “Judaism”is Misleading Mar. 3
Dr. Andre Krauss Inside Hitler’s Head
March 9
Dr. Barry Bub “Never Again” - Is it time for Civil Disobedience?
Mar. 17
Dr. Andre Krauss Antisemitism, Holocaust Denial
Mar. 23
Film (Free to Members and Guests) Shealtiels - 7:00 pm
April 20
Sylvia Pastor In the Kitchen with Sylvia
Programs and schedules are subject to change. We will make every attempt to notify you of the changes in a timely manner. Please consult your bulletin, eBlasts and the Temple website for last minute information. The Miniversity Committee wishes to thank our speakers for their contributions to the educational vision of Temple Beth Israel. Your continued participation and support makes it all possible.
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n the Jewish calendar, this is the month of She-vat, the fifth month of the year. The name She-vat is derived from the Akkadian Shabatu, meaning “strike” or “destroy.” It alludes to the power exhibited by nature during this month, which brings an end to the rainy season in Israel. In the month of She-vat the trees revive from their winter Dr. Rachel Dulin repose, buds appear on their branches and the blossoms of the almond trees declare that spring has sprung. The rabbis, in order to fulfill the law of tithing (Lev 19:23-25), designated the 15th of the month of Shevat as a day to count the years of the trees (Rosh Ha-shanah 1:1). They called the day Rosh Ha-Shannah La-ee-lanot, “The New Year of the Trees” (ee-la-not means “trees” in Mishnaic Hebrew). The 15th of She-vat, which is also known as Tu Bish-vat (tu equals 15 in Hebrew numerology), evolved through the years into a spring festival celebrating the beauty of trees and their economic benefit. Interestingly, the most common word for “tree” in the Bible is etz (Pl. eitzim), not ee-lan (Pl. ee-la-not). Eelan appears only six times in the Text and only in the late Book of Daniel, whereas etz appears throughout the Bible 329 times. Etz is related to the Akkadian word isu and, like it, referred to a living tree, bearing fruit and beautifying the landscape (Gen 1:29; Ez 47:7 et al). It was the name for “timber” and “wood” out of which different tools and objects were made (Ex. 25:10; I Sam 6:14 et al). From the many idioms and phrases in Hebrew, where trees are at the center, it becomes clear that eitzim were
S
By N
Edit for t appreciated and adored in the Hebraicish p culture. Not only were eitzim createdwith by God to “bear fruit with the seed inalso
it” (Gen 1:11), but they also were sym-Jew bols of life and wisdom, as exhibited inCatc the story of the Garden of Eden whereStart Etz Ha-chayim, the “Tree of Life,”Fox and Etz Ha-da-at, the “Tree of Knowl-DOR edge,” were planted by God at its cen-uty w Los ter (Gen. 2:9). It is not surprising, then, that formen the writer of the Book of Proverbs, wis-dies. dom was perceived as Etz Chayim, “athan tree of life” (Pro 3:18). But for the rab-iden bis, the Torah was an Etz Cha-yim forfilm those who followed in her path. More-Jewi over, people were also compared withDOR the beauty of trees. A righteous person,who B for example, was compared to a “thriva su ing cedar of Lebanon” (Ps. 92:14), and a successful person was seen as an “etzBish planted beside a stream of water, whichoffic serie yields fruit in season” (Ps. 1:3). On the other hand, etz is also usedTime to point to the negative in the humanWhe condition. The prophet Isaiah, for ex-repli ample, described idol worshipers asfami those who worshiped bul etz, namelyfami “blocks of wood” (Isa 44:19). To thisplac S day, the words bul etz refer to a thick(NB headed, dullard or foolish person. We will end with the popular sayingnary ha-ta-pu-ach lo nofel ra-chok me-ha-as Z etz, literally “the apple does not fall farbegi from the tree,” referring to behavioralarou similarities of parents and children.first, Unfortunately, the space is too shortwith to mention the many more usages ofreali eitzim and ee-la-not, enriching thecan language landscape. We will continueclud L with more on Arbor Day, which like Tu Bishvat, is a day devoted to the rec-the c ognition of the importance of trees inserie in th nature. Have a lovely Tu Bish-vat day. Dr. Rachel Zohar Dulin is a professor of biblical literature at Spertus College in Chicago, and a retired adjunct professor of Hebrew and Bible at New College in Sarasota.
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February 2020
JEWISH INTEREST
Stars of David
By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist
Editor’s note: Persons in BOLD CAPS are deemed by Nate Bloom to be Jewish for the purpose of the column. Persons identified as Jewish have at least one Jewbraicish parent and were not raised in a faith other than Judaism – and don’t identify atedwith a faith other than Judaism as an adult. Converts to Judaism, of course, are ed inalso identified as Jewish.
sym-Jewish Stars in New TV Shows – ed inCatch-Up and Look Ahead hereStarting on Friday, January 2 on ife,”Fox (9PM) was Deputy. STEPHEN owl-DORFF, 48, plays Bill Hollister, a depcen-uty who becomes the chief of the huge Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Departt forment when the elected Chief suddenly wis-dies. Hollister is more an old West guy m, “athan a modern lawman. Dorff, who rab-identifies as Jewish, is a veteran action m forfilm actor. Dorff’s late mother wasn’t More-Jewish. His Jewish father is STEVE withDORFF, 70, a successful songwriter son,who also writes film scores. BEX TAYLOR-KLAUS, 25, has hriva supporting Deputy role as Breanna and “etzBishop, an investigator in the Sheriff’s hichoffice. This is her first role as a network series regular. She told the Windy City usedTimes that “Bex” is short for Rebecca. manWhen asked about her nationality, she ex-replied, “Wow, that is difficult. My s asfamily is from Spain, Cuba, Israel. The melyfamily is Jewish and from all over the thisplace.” Starting on Tuesday, January 7 hick(NBC, 10PM) was Zoey’s Extraordiyingnary Playlist. JANE LEVY, 30, stars -ha-as Zoe, a computer code writer who ll farbegins to hear the thoughts of people ioralaround her through popular songs. At dren.first, she questions her sanity. Later, shortwith the help of a friend, she comes to s ofrealize that this power is a gift – she thecan connect better with everyone, ininuecluding her ailing father. Levy’s first big role (2011) was as like rec-the co-star of the well-reviewed ABC es inseries Suburgatory. When she was in that show, I tried and failed to find
out more about her background. Over time, family history sites revealed that her father is Jewish and her mother is not. I don’t know more because Levy just doesn’t talk about her family background. Broadway actor SKYLER ASTIN, 32, plays Max, who is Zoe’s best friend at work. Astin, who was born Skyler Lipstein, is best known to most people for playing Jesse Swanson in the films Pitch Perfect and Pitch Perfect 2. Also starting on January 7 was FBI: Most Wanted (CBS, 9PM). It’s a spin-off of the CBS series, FBI, which began in 2018. The five co-stars include ROXY STERNBERG, 30. In 2016, she was profiled in the London Jewish Chronicle following her casting in Emerald City, an NBC series that only lasted a couple of months. Sternberg is the daughter of a black and Jewish Ugandan mother and an English Jewish father. The Chronicle noted that when she is home in London, she teaches Hebrew School classes at her synagogue (she’s fluent in Hebrew). Avenue 5 is a comedic science fiction series, set in the future, that started on HBO on Sunday, January 19 (10PM). Avenue 5 is the name of the spaceship where most of the series scenes take place. JOSH GAD, 38, is a series regular. He plays Herman Judd, the billionaire owner of Avenue 5. Also in outer space is Captain Picard, a CBS All-Access series that began on Thursday, January 23. Patrick Stewart returns in the title role he created in Star Trek: The Next Generation. BRENT SPINER, 70, reprises
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Interested in Your Family’s History? Nate Bloom (see column at left) has become a family history expert in 10 years of doing his celebrity column, and he has expert friends who can help when called on. Most family history experts charge $1,000 or more to do a full family-tree search. However, Bloom knows that most people want to start with a limited search of one family line.
So here’s the deal: Write Bloom at nteibloom@aol.com and enclose a phone number. Nate will then contact you about starting a limited search. If that goes well, additional and more extensive searches are possible. The first search fee is no more than $100. No upfront cost. Also, several of this newspaper’s readers have asked Bloom to locate friends and family members from their past, and that’s worked out great for them. So contact him about this as well. his Next Gen role (“Data,” an android) in the new series. Starting Thursday, February 6 (NBC, 9:30PM) is the comedy series Indebted. Dave (ADAM PALLY, 37) and Rebecca (Abby Elliot) look forward to some “down time” after their main parenting duties are behind them. Then Dave’s parents Linda (FRAN DRESCHER, 62) and Stew (STEVEN WEBER, 58) show up without warning on Dave’s doorstep. They are broke and Dave has to take them in (he “owes” them). The two couples don’t get on that well. You might best remember Weber as the younger of the two pilot brothers in the sit-com Wings. Pally has a host of recent credits, including co-starring roles in Happy Endings and The Mindy Project. Everyone knows Drescher as the star of The Nanny, the hit ’90s sit-com. Last month, it was announced that RACHEL My Crazy Ex-Girlfriend BLOOM, 32, will work with Drescher
to bring a musical version of The Nanny to Broadway. A five-star team of songwriters, producers, etc., are attached to the project. Indebted was created by DAN LEVY, 38, a stand-up comedian and TV comedy series writer/producer. His wife is RACHEL SPECTER, 39, an actress and comedy writer who has many credits. They wed before a rabbi in 2010 and have two children. Specter was born and raised in Tampa, and her mother (at last report) taught fourth grade at the Tampa Hillel Day School. Her father is an associate dean at the Tampa-based University of South Florida College of Medicine.
Need to reach the editor of The Jewish News? Send an email to jewishnews18@gmail.com.
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SARASOTA JAZZ FESTIVAL SARASOTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM
MARCH 8 - 14, 2020 MUSIC DIRECTOR KEN PEPLOWSKI
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February 2020
ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD
24 things that made us happy in 2019
Forget the awful news that dominates most media; 2019 was a fabulous year for many reasons. We look back on some of the best. By Nicky Blackburn, ISRAEL21c, December 25, 2019
O
ne of the joys of working for ISRAEL21c is that our focus is on the positive. While the media generally dwells on all the awful things taking place around the world, we seek out heartwarming stories, the stories of people trying to make a difference and to improve our planet. It’s a focus I never take for granted. When every day you report on people using their creativity to come up with innovations or solutions that will impact people’s well-being, or help the environment, or enrich our technological world, you receive a daily dose of optimism and hopefulness. That’s what we all need. In today’s fast news cycle, it’s hard not to be overwhelmed by the negative and it’s easy to forget the goodness that lies at the heart of most people. As 2019 comes to a close, a year that has not been easy for many people around the world, we decided to look back at the stories that made us the happiest this year and to share them with you. Some of them moved us, some impressed us and some just made us smile. All of them gave us hope. Breakthroughs in health Eliminating tumors Health breakthroughs are always exciting. In January, we covered the company Alpha TAU Medical, which has developed a breakthrough alpha radiation technology that can eliminate cancerous tumors in 70% of cases. In November, the results from the company’s first clinical trial were in – and nearly 80% of 28 patients with squamous cell carcinoma received a complete response rate in managing their tumors. All patients responded to
the treatment to some degree. What’s particularly noteworthy is that prior forms of therapy had failed in 61% of the patients. There’s still a long road ahead, but this is most encouraging news. VR in surgery Two-year-old Ari Ellman of San Francisco probably wouldn’t be alive today if it weren’t for revolutionary technology developed in Israel. Ari had a massive tumor on his brain, and experts at several U.S. hospitals didn’t think it could be removed. But in a historic surgery at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital of Stanford University this year, surgeons managed to remove the tumor in an endonasal procedure that lasted 18 hours. The surgeons were able to do it because they rehearsed the risky surgery repeatedly using the Surgical Theater virtual reality system, developed by two former Israel Air Force officers. The VR system is like a flight simulator. Using a VR headset, surgeons can fly through a 3D digital reconstruction of patient scans to help them plan the procedure and print a 3D model to practice the surgery. Surgical Theater is now in 15 leading U.S. hospitals, and is also being used for cardiac and spinal surgery preparation. Groundbreaking operations In April, a surgeon at Hadassah University Medical Center in Jerusalem carried out an unprecedented live vein transplant to save 60-year-old Israeli Avi Yavetz from having his leg amputated. Yavetz, who suffers from peripheral vascular disease (PVD), had an obstruction in the veins and arteries in
one of his legs, and no veins suitable for transplant. Prof. Ron Carmeli, chief of vascular surgery at Hadassah, came up with a crazy solution – he removed a vein from Yavetz’s son, Snir, and transplanted it. The transplant, the first vein transplant from a living person ever undertaken, was a success. In November, Israeli surgeons also carried out the world’s first implantation of an artificial meniscus in two Israeli patients. One operation was performed at Shamir Medical Center, and the other at Ramat Aviv Medical Center. The NUsurface Meniscus implant was developed at the Netanya R&D center of U.S.-based Active Implants. Hope for multiple myeloma patients Israeli-Massachusetts company Karyopharm Therapeutics was this year awarded FDA approval for XPOVIO, the first drug aimed at helping the body’s natural tumor-suppressing proteins do their job. XPOVIO (generic name Selinexor) has been approved for multiple myeloma patients who have relapsed and were resistant to at least four prior therapies. Multiple myeloma, the second most common type of blood cancer after non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, can be slowed by medication, but ultimately it always returns and progresses. When a patient has gone through all of the available options, there’s nothing left to try. That’s where XPOVIO comes in. Because of its dire prognosis, multiple myeloma was the starting point for XPOVIO, but it’s far from the end
ISRA porti food
foun game. Next up the company is lookingflags at lymphoma, uterine cancer and brainholis cancer. base A test for stage 1 lung cancer off-g Israeli company Savicell Diagnosticsmen has developed a simple but revolution-and ary blood test that can detect stage 1ter, f lung cancer. Why is this important? Of all can-Box cers, lung cancer is the most deadly be-velo cause it’s so difficult to diagnose earlyMitz on. Symptoms don’t begin until the tumor is already quite large, and by thenit rep it’s often too late. Hara Diagnosed at stage 1, however, thebette survival rate is 80 percent. ronm The Savicell test, which is not yetAn e commercially available, measures theAt th metabolic signatures of immune cellscom circulating in the blood. It can diag-elect nose lung cancer in hours, rather thansion days or weeks. Development and clinical studies continue. Innovative thinking Village in a Box When Israeli green-construction expert Victor Haym Hajaj was recruited in 2012 to help build housing for 1 million refugees of the civil war in Con-
new cost-
Village in a Box houses are monolithic domes that are fast, affordable and earthquake-proof
seats to cr rang
go, he had no problem building fast,erati affordable, earthquake-proof houses,oil, i but soon discovered there was no sup-be av continued on next pageas 20
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February 2020
ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD ISRAEL21c...continued from previous page porting infrastructure to provide water, Cape Air. In September, Eviation was food or energy. acquired by Clermont Aerospace of He decided to create his own. Singapore. According to the International In 2017, he and Jonathan Haran Civil Aviation Organization, 4.3 billion founded The Sustainable Group. Their people traveled by air in 2018. That’s flagship project is Village in a Box, a a major cause of pollution. Let’s hope holistic residential renewable energybased infrastructure system to provide the era of electric planes is about to commence. off-grid communities with environColor matters to fish, mentally friendly affordable housing and that’s important and clean sustainable solutions for waClimate change is decimating coral ter, food, energy and waste treatment. reefs all over the world, and that’s bad A proof-of-concept Village in a news for fish life. Twenty-five percent Box, with 200 homes, is now under deof fish make their home in these vital velopment in the Negev desert town of living structures. Mitzpeh Ramon. “I fell in love with the idea because Now, however, Israeli scientists have figured out a way to print colorit represents a big hope for humanity,” ful new corals using a 3D printer and Haran told us. “Our aim is to build a sustainable bioplastics. better future without hurting the environment.” The new artificial reefs, designed An electric plane to accurately mimic natural coral, were created by researchers from Ben GuAt the Paris Air Show in June, Israeli rion University of the Negev, and atcompany Eviation Aircraft unveiled its tached to a natural reef in the Red Sea, electric plane, a revolutionary emisnear Eilat. sion-free plane that could usher in a Surprisingly, the fish seemed to like some of the colored artificial designs more than the natural ones. Reinventing our cars Self-driving cars may be just around the corner, but there is one area of car development that Israel’s Eviation Aircraft is developing electric propulsion has barely changed in (photo by Roi Rochlin) over 100 years, accordnew era of quieter, cleaner and more ing to Daniel Barel, CEO of Israeli cost-effective flying. automotive startup REE – the way our Called Alice, the streamlined plane cars are manufactured and designed. seats nine passengers and is planned No longer. Barel’s company plans to cruise at a speed of 260 knots for a to fundamentally change how vehicles range of up to 650 miles. are built. REE has invented a modular The plane, designed to reduce opplatform that looks a bit like a hovererating costs stemming from fuel and board, which houses the car’s major oil, is undergoing flight tests and could components – including brakes, therbe available for commercial use as soon mal systems, motor and drivetrain – as 2022. Its first customer reportedly is right next to the wheels.
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that can take carbon from CO2 and turn it into protein and other biological molecules, and then coaxed them to switch from their normal food – sugar – to CO2. The discovery could lead to cleaner energy sources to replace fossil fuels, a basis for future REE’s prototype vehicle chassis (photo by Yuval Chen) methods to increase food production with less land, and produce The company emerged from alternative proteins from renewable stealth mode in the summer, and is alsources. ready collaborating with Mitsubishi; Honey without bees Toyota’s truck subsidiary Hino MoWith the population of bees in decline, tors; auto-parts manufacturers Musashi honey could become a rare commodSeimitsu, Linamar and Tenneco; and ity. Now students from the Technion semiconductor leader NXP. Israel Institute of Technology have found Water out of thin air a way to make honey without bees. Producing clean water out of thin air The bee-free honey is produced is a bit like a magic trick, but that’s by a bacterium which learns to make exactly what Israeli startup Watergen honey following reprogramming in a specializes in. The company’s atmolab. In recognition for their work, the spheric water-generator pulls water students won a gold medal at the recent from the air every day, and purifies it iGEM (International Genetically Engifor safe drinking. neered Machine) competition held in This year, the company donated its Boston. technology to a school in Columbia, Taking care of others and to Uzbekistan, Lake Chad, South Helping after the hurricane Africa and Sierra Leone. in Puerto Rico Watergen also has developed a At ISRAEL21c we love stories about built-in system that produces purified Israelis flying out to help other coundrinking water in your car. The techtries in the wake of disasters, and this nology, which pulls outside air into the year we had a chance to experience this car and filters out all pollutants, has a firsthand when we flew out to Puerto lot of people excited. The company is Rico and met some of the locals whose now working with Ford. lives have been transformed by Israeli A bacteria that could slow humanitarian aid NGO IsraAID. climate change It was a high point for all of us. We Israeli scientists have developed a new heard so many moving stories about bacteria that can eat carbon dioxide how IsraAID helped people all over the (CO2), creating what could be a powtiny island after Hurricane Maria, the erful potential weapon in the battle worst natural disaster to hit the Caribagainst climate change. bean island. The new bacteria was engineered Puerto Rico wasn’t the only counover a decade by scientists from the try where IsraAID provided help this Weizmann Institute of Science. They JN_JFCS_Feb.pdf 1 1/3/20 10:48 AM first modified the bacteria with genes continued on next page
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February 2020
ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD
ISRAEL21c...continued from previous page year. It also sent aid to the Bahamas medical clowns went on a mission to and California, to Venezuelan refugees the hurricane-devastated Bahamas; and in Columbia, and to Mozambique. Israel’s Fire and Rescue Services sent a delegation to help extinguish the cataWhat particularly impressed me strophic fires in the Amazon rainforest. about IsraAID’s work, after seeing it In December, an Israeli medical in action in Puerto Rico, was how the team flew to Samoa to help with the NGO seems to encapsulate the best of measles epidemic; and a team of rescue Israel, and bring it all over the world. experts from the Israel Defense Forces The organization is lean, adaptable and flew to Albania after the earthquake. innovative. It thrives in situations of And let’s not forget the work of chaos, responds quickly to local needs ZAKA, United Hatzalah and Magen and is ready to find solutions even David Adom. when the situation seems impossible. Truly, a year of doing good. Aid all over A reunion in Ethiopia IsraAID isn’t the only Israeli NGO In October, over 100 Ethiopians came providing aid all over the world. There together in Addis Abiba for a special are many other organizations that we 25th anniversary reunion with the Isare equally proud of. Today, it seems, raeli doctors who saved their lives. Israeli NGOs are some of the first reThe Ethiopians, of all differsponders that people look to in a crisis. This fall alone, Israel Flying Aid ent ages, had all been operated on by sent aid to women and children in Chad; the Israeli NGO Save a Child’s Heart (SACH), and for many it was the first time since the operation that they met the surgeons. At the joyful reunion, doctors met Yared, who now runs a school for underprivileged children; Robel, a filmmaker; and Gifti, now a pediatric I TA L I A N B A K E RY emergency room nurse. They were just 941.926.8422 a few of the dozens of people at the 2732 Stickney Point Road event who wouldn’t have made it into adulthood without SACH’s help. • Rugalach In its 25 years, SACH has carried out lifesaving heart operations for chil• Strudel WINNER dren from 61 countries, some of which don’t even have diplomatic relations • Hamantaschen with Israel. This year, it also celebrated its 5,000th young patient. Breaking a fast BEST and breaking barriers LOCAL Coexistence was very much in evidence BAKERY in May, when SodaStream brought together 3,000 Jews, Israeli Arabs, PalesPaisanosItalianBakery.com tinians and a sprinkling of international
Memorable moments Eurovision was a blast Eurovision came to Israel this year for the first time since 1979, and it was magnificent – even if you weren’t a fan. The acts themselves may have been the usual soso Eurovision fare, but SodaStream CEO Daniel Birnbaum and employees celebrate at the the organization was company’s Iftar dinner on May 27, 2019 (photo by Sivan Faraj) spectacular. Madonna came (though most wish visitors for a celebratory Iftar dinner, she hadn’t), Netta was fabulous, and the largest ever held in Israel. Tel Aviv went into prime party mode – The carbonation-machine faca setting it does well. But the real wintory in the Negev employs Christians, ner of this competition? The Shalva Jews and Muslims, and the Iftar event Band. marked the end of the month of RamaComprised of young people with dan, when Muslims fast during the day. disabilities, the Shalva Band was the “The thousands of people who are favorite to be Israel’s entry to the comeating here with us tonight are the light petition, but had to drop out when they which defeats the darkness, both undiscovered the finals were on Shabbat. der missiles and during tense periods,” Instead, they sang at the second semiSodaStream CEO Daniel Birnbaum finals and had a worldwide audience told the audience at the event. sniffling emotionally, recognizing that A bikejacking that ended well the contest’s motto, “Dare to Dream,” When Israeli Matan Yaffe was amwas way more than just a slogan to this bushed by four Bedouins while riding band. a motorbike in the Negev desert, they In Israel, there’s no such thing threatened him with a metal bar, but as failure, even when you crash ran off when he pulled out a gun. and burn This frightening experience could So near, and yet so far. After a great have left Yaffe with lasting animosdeal of excitement, Israel’s Beresheet ity, but instead he decided to create an unmanned spacecraft did reach the award-winning leadership program for moon, but not quite in the way everyBedouins in the Negev. one expected. Instead, moments before Desert Stars, the nonprofit orgait was expected to land, it crashed and nization Yaffe founded with his own burned. money, today employs 80 people, and Was it a disappointment? Yes. Was runs four programs including a high it the end of the effort? No. In true Isschool leadership program for 210 sturaeli spirit, Beersheet’s failure was dents, an empowerment center and an seen as a temporary setback on the entrepreneurship incubator. road to success. A new moon mission “By strengthening Bedouin sociis planned, and there’s even talk of ety, I strengthen Israel,” Yaffe says. aiming for Mars. Save a life, save a soul When Israeli bride Shachar Kugelmas got married in July, a Muslim paramedic named Muawiya Kabha stunned the audience at the chuppah with a tale that no one could forget. Ten years earlier, as a volunteer for emergency response organization United Hatzalah, Kabha arrived at the scene of a car crash near Petah Tikva and found a young Jewish girl trapped in a car and already declared dead. But Kabha wasn’t prepared to give up. For 40 minutes he worked on Shachar, and finally – against all the odds – managed to get her heart beating. United Hatzalah, the Israeli voluntary emergency-response organization that brought Kabha to the accident scene, shared a video of the paramedic telling the story. The bride’s father had invited Kabha to the wedding as a surprise for his daughter. At the ceremony, Kabha concluded with a thank-you to the emotional bride. “People ask me all the time, ‘How do you keep going after all the death you see in your work?’ The answer is here. Shachar, I am able to continue my work because of you. BeYour year-long journey with cause I saved your body, but you saved APPLY NOW Momentum Includes Your year-long journey with my soul.” MomentumUnlimited.org APPLY NOW Baseball wins big Momentum Includes MomentumUnlimited.org In September, Israel suddenly discovFor more information, please contact: ered that it not only had a national July 14 – 21, 2020 Gisele Pintchuck | gpintchuck@jfedsrq.org | For more information, please contact: 941-706-0029 baseball team, but that the team had July 14 – 21, 2020 Gisele Pintchuck | gpintchuck@jfedsrq.org | just qualified – against all odds – for 941-706-0029 the Olympic Games in Tokyo in 2020. This will be the first time an Israeli how to connect deeper spiritual Tsfat, dynamic women from all over the empowering Jewish team has taken part in the Olympics with yourself, your family, Tel Aviv, Masada’s world for a revitalizing classes led by worldbaseball tournament. 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Additional costs for participants include $25 for the Year Of Growth book, $75 for tips, a $99 acceptance fee, and the cost of 1-2 meals per day. Participants pay a $500 deposit, which is fully refundable upon returning from the trip. This trip seemingly nowhere to most Israelis, is designed for women with children at home under the age of 18. The Momentum Year-Long Journey continues with monthly gatherings and Jewish Momentum Trips are free for participants excluding airfare. Additional costs for participants include $25 for the Year Of Growth book, $75 for tips, a * learning. but it’s the fruition of a long-term vi$99 acceptance fee, and the cost of 1-2 meals per day. Participants pay a $500 deposit, which is fully refundable upon returning from the trip. This trip is designed for women with children at home under the age of 18. The Momentum Year-Long Journey continues with monthly gatherings and Jewish sion by Israel Association of Baseball learning. 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ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD
ISRAEL21c...continued from previous page nts In fact, this wasn’t the only sports who works at Yotpo, or Gin, a collie blast achievement of the year. Israel also saw that keeps workers at Autodesk entero Is-gold wins in judo, sailing, ice-hockey tained. firstand at the Paralympics. Who knows At property management company nd itwhat next year’s Olympics may bring? Guesty, some 25 dogs help their ownevenThe light side ers out at work. TheYou never know what to expect This was a subject close to my mayin Tel Aviv own heart. Luna, whom I picked up as l so-We feature many photographers at ISa puppy from a shelter, keeps me combutRAEL21c, showcasing some absolutepany in my office. wasly incredible talent. One photographer A 3,000-year-old beer who made a real impact on us all this What do you do if you discover wishyear was Evyatar Dayan – a software 3,000-year-old jugs from an ancient andengineer by trade, who goes out onto Iron-Age brewery found in Israel? de –the streets of Tel Aviv in his spare time If you’re a scientist then it’s obviwin-to stalk photo ops. ous – you isolate the yeast, and make alva His pictures are funny, spontaneyour own brew. That’s exactly what a group of ous and delightful, capturing moments with Israeli scientists from the four Israeli universities, comthe Dead Sea Arava Scithey ence Center and local bbat. beer experts did in May emithis year. ence At a special beerthat tasting, reporters were am,” invited to try the kind of this beer that may have been drunk by Pharaoh, King David and Jesus. How Contrasts in romance (photo by Evyatar Dayan/ThisIsTelAviv) did it taste? Well, kind that most of us would miss. Truly playof like regular beer supposedly. greatful and wonderful work. It’s hard to Editor and Israel Director, Nicky heetpick a favorite. Blackburn has worked extensively as theTel Aviv high-tech goes to the dogs a journalist and editor both in Britain very-In a city that has the world’s highest and Israel for a range of national and eforeper-capita ratio of pet dogs to people, international publications including andit’s no surprise that many of those The Cambridge Evening News, Londogs are accompanying their owners to don News, Travel Weekly, Israel High Waswork, and yes, of course, we had to do Tech Investor and The Times of Lone Is-an in-depth look at the trend. don. She was the Associate Editor at was Some of the dogs are already faLINK Israel’s Business and Technolthemous and have their own Instagram acogy Magazine and the High-Tech Corsioncounts – like Mona the Aussiedoodle, respondent for The Jerusalem Post. k of
February 2020
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BRIEFS 250,000 IMMIGRANTS TO ISRAEL IN PAST DECADE
More than 250,000 immigrants reached Israel from 150 countries in the past decade, the Jewish Agency reported, with 34,000 coming in 2019. Over the past decade, 130,000 came from the countries of the former Soviet Union; 55,000 came from other European countries, including 38,000 from France; 32,000 came from the U.S. and 3,800 from Canada; 13,420 came from Latin America, including 4,320 from Brazil and 3,150 from Argentina; 10,500 came from Ethiopia and 2,560 from South Africa; 1,950 came from Australia and New Zealand; 1,180 came from India; 3,040 immigrants came from Middle Eastern countries with which Israel has no diplomatic relations. 60% of the immigrants were younger than 45. (Globes)
THE ONLY PLACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST WHERE CHRISTIANS ARE THRIVING IS THE JEWISH STATE
There are 177,000 Christians in Israel, up 1.5% from last year; 78% are Arabs. A British report in July found that the number of Christians in the Middle East has dwindled from 20% of the population a century ago to just 5%. In the Palestinian territories, the Christian population has dropped below 1.5%. (Jerusalem Post)
ISRAEL WELCOMES RECORD 4.55 MILLION TOURISTS IN 2019
In 2019, 4.55 million tourists visited Israel, the Tourism Ministry announced recently. Tourist entries increased by 10% compared to 4,120,800 in 2018. The leading sources for tourism were the U.S. (890,000), France (338,200), Russia (296,000), Germany (268,900) and Britain (218,700); 144,400 visitors arrived from China, up 51%. (Eytan Halon, Jerusalem Post)
ISRAEL EYES DUBAI EXPO AS PORTAL TO ARAB WORLD
With the Dubai Expo 2020 trade fair opening later this year, the Israeli pavilion will present a unique opportunity to speed up the “normalization” of relations and reach out to Arab peoples, officials say. Dore Gold, former director-general of the Israeli Foreign Ministry, said the “quasi-diplomatic presence” of the pavilion is one of several developments with “a cumulative effect.” He cited sporting competitions and the 2015 opening in Abu Dhabi of an Israeli mission to the International Renewable Energy Agency, which is based there. “It’s not normalization, but it’s an enhanced presence,” he said. While the Gulf Arab states have not lost interest in the Palestinian continued on next page
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February 2020
BRIEFS continued from previous page issue, “these countries are looking after themselves,” including enhancing security cooperation with Israel against Iran. Gold, who heads the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs think-tank, said, “The name of the game is how to find joint interests that don’t create a big stir. In any case, if you did public opinion surveys, you’d find that throughout most of the Gulf there’s a kind of understanding that Israel’s part of the region.” (AFP - France 24)
ISRAELI PUBLIC NAME NEW PLANET “ALEF”
The Israel Ministry of Science, Technology and Space announced recently that it will name a planet after the Hebrew letter Alef, the first letter of the alphabet. The name was chosen in an online poll of 20,000 participants conducted by the Israel Space Agency. On the occasion of its 100th anniversary, the International Astronomical Association offered dozens of countries the chance to name a planet and a star in solar systems outside of the Milky Way. (Itamar Eichner, Ynet News)
JEWISH-ARAB COOPERATION SEEN IN ISRAEL’S MIXED CITIES
In Israel’s mixed Jewish-Arab cities in the last municipal elections, Arabs running on national party lists or as independent candidates were elected to city councils, and they all, without exception, joined the municipal coalition governments. In every mixed-population city, one finds close cooperation between Jews and Arabs at every level of municipal activity.
A study by Dr. Hisham Jubran found that 81% of Jewish residents of mixed cities described relations with Arab residents as good, and 89% of the Arab residents described relations with Jewish residents as good. Arabs – especially young couples and members of the middle class – are moving from Arab communities into mixed cities to improve their quality of life and enjoy better municipal services. (Jalal Bana, Israel Hayom)
JERUSALEM RANKED WORLD’S FASTEST GROWING TOURIST DESTINATION
Jerusalem is the world’s fastest growing tourist destination, UK business intelligence company Euromonitor International reports. The city saw 3.93 million overseas tourists in 2018, up 12% from 2017, and is expected to enjoy 22% growth in 2019 to 4.8 million. (Globes)
GAZA BORDER PROTESTS SUSPENDED FOR THREE MONTHS
The organizers of the Great March of Return demonstrations near the border with Israel on Thursday, December 26, suspended the protests until the end of March 2020. Palestinian political analysts said the decision was linked to ceasefire understandings reached between Israel and Hamas. Yusri Darwish, from the group organizing the protests, said that when the demonstrations resume on March 30, they will take place monthly rather than weekly. “Thursday’s announcement is an admission of failure,” a Palestinian journalist in Gaza said. “The protests failed to achieve their two declared goals: ending the blockade on Gaza and achieving the right of return for Palestinian refugees to their former
ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD homes inside Israel.” A Palestinian human rights activist in Gaza said “fatigue” was also behind the decision. “People are tired, and the organizers know that very well. In recent months we’ve seen a significant decrease in the number of people participating in the Friday demonstrations.” (Khaled Abu Toameh, Jerusalem Post)
JERUSALEM-TEL AVIV FAST TRAIN BEGINS OPERATIONS
The new high-speed electrified railway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv was inaugurated on Saturday night, December 21. Travel time on the new route is 30 minutes, compared with 90 minutes on the old Jerusalem-Tel Aviv railway line winding through the Judean hills. The new 56-km. route includes an 11.6-km. tunnel, the longest in Israel; a 1.25-km. bridge, the longest in Israel; and a 90-meter high bridge, the highest in Israel. The Yitzhak Navon railway station in Jerusalem is 80 meters underground, the deepest railway station in Israel and one of the deepest in the world. (Globes)
ISRAEL IS USING DIGITAL DIPLOMACY TO REACH OUT TO THE ARAB WORLD
Linda Menuhin, born in Baghdad, is the moderator of the Arabic-language Facebook pages and social media platforms run by Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Interacting daily with residents of Arab countries and providing information about Israel, Judaism and the Jews who once lived among
them, Menuhin said her goal is to show “the common values we share and the similarities between us.” Uzi Rabi, director of the Moshe Dayan Center for Middle Eastern and African Studies at Tel Aviv University, said the region was in a “transitory phase,” including “a growing portion of young Arabs who are no longer afraid to talk to Israelis.... Today, most people know that Israel is not the problem.” The Foreign Ministry’s Arabiclanguage Facebook pages, Twitter and Instagram accounts, and YouTube channel collectively draw 10 million viewers and followers each week. (Ruth Eglash, Washington Post)
ISRAEL’S LEVIATHAN OFFSHORE NATURAL GAS FIELD BEGINS PRODUCTION
Gas began flowing from the Leviathan offshore natural gas field on Tuesday, December 30, the largest energy project in Israel’s history. Yossi Abu, CEO of Delek Drilling LP, said, “For the first time since its establishment, Israel is now an energy powerhouse, able to supply all its energy needs and gaining energy independence. At the same time, we will be exporting natural gas to Israel’s neighbors [Egypt and Jordan], thus strengthening Israel’s position in the region.” Located in the Mediterranean Sea 125 km. (77 miles) west of Haifa, the Leviathan field holds some 22 trillion cubic feet of recoverable natural gas. The gas supply will enable Israel to phase out expensive and polluting imported coal for generating electricity. (Shoshanna Solomon, Times of Israel)
Get to know Israel and her people! Visit jfedsrq.org/israel.
February 2020
COMMENTARY
A holiday for trees (and us)
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abic-Rabbi Michael Shefrin witterAssociate Rabbi, TubeTemple Emanu-El llion ere in Sarasota-Manatee, we eek. don’t experience the grandeur
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of the seasons changing like in some other places. The changing color of leaves and the delicate snowfall have been exchanged for the glorious and perfect weather of our own “season.” The Jewish calendar helps us keep thanthis in perspective. The holiday of Tu sday,B’Shevat, which happens every year proj-on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat, may be the best example of Drill-this. A special and important day, Tu inceB’Shevat is also called Rosh Hashana n en-L’Ilanot, the new year for the trees. Where does this holiday come ll its from? It is rooted in our Torah. ndeThe book of Leviticus contains ll be eigh-laws regarding how old a tree should ngth-be before it is harvested and tithed, and n.” how long from the time it is planted Seauntil its fruit can be eaten. The Talmud , theestablished Tu B’Shevat to help us llion gas. el to imcity. el)
keep track of the correct dates so that we could follow these mitzvot. The date also comes around when the majority of rainfall has occurred each year in the land of Israel. It marks the time when fruit trees, which have been dormant during the winter months, begin to blossom. Maimonides calls it the beginning of the agricultural fiscal year. Tu B’Shevat is festive. It is often marked by planting a new tree and eating fruits and nuts found in Israel. There is a special holiday seder, similar to Passover. One of my favorite customs is on that day to eat something not yet eaten that year, allowing us to recite our prayer of gratitude, Shehekihyanu. Tu B’Shevat is more than Jewish Arbor Day. It calls out to us for an increased mindfulness of our relationship with nature. It is a time to appreciate our dependence on the natural world and for us to acknowledge where we find God in the rhythm of the seasons. It is a day to recommit to the Jewish principle of Bal Tashchit, the biblical prohibition against waste and destruction, and take actions toward caring for our environment. This year, Tu B’Shevat falls on the evening of Sunday, February 9 and the day of Monday, February 10. While we may not have winter snow, we do have the chance to observe this holiday. We can reconnect with roots and leaves, fruits and nuts, and the forthcoming
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joy and renewal of spring. We can each make time to look for blossoming buds and greenery becoming even more green. At this season, we can stop to thank the Holy One that provides all the living things that give us clean air, shelter and resources to live. As Rabbi
Nachman of Breslov would encourage us: Make it our custom to go outdoors among the trees and grass, among all growing things. Do this not only at this holiday, but from the start of the year to its end, so that our lives, like the trees, will be renewed and filled with goodness, blessings and peace. Amen.
Opinions printed in The Jewish News of Sarasota-Manatee do not necessarily reflect those of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, its Board of Directors or staff.
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34A
February 2020
COMMENTARY
The effects of Bahaa Abu al-Ata’s death
By H
By Rabbi Howard A. Simon
O
n Tuesday, November 12, the Israel could have led to an all-out war Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Gaza, which Hamas does not want. attacked and killed Bahaa Abu The second fact relating to this atal-Ata, the most influential Palestintack is that the IDF inflicted serious ian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) operative in the casualties upon the Palestinians during Gaza Strip. Since taking the two days of fighting. this action, the PalestinThis led to the Palestinians, Hamas, Iran and Israians’ desire to accept the el have learned a great deal Egyptian-brokered ceaseabout what is taking place fire, thus ending the threat in Gaza, and how these of more loss of life at the developments affect Israel hands of Israel’s forces. and its defensive moves in During those two days the area. of struggle, Israel hit naval assets, tunnels, PalesFact number one is that Hamas, the servant of Iran tinian headquarters and Rabbi Howard A. Simon in the area, chose not to be rocket-launching sites. The third major fact in Israel’s acinvolved in retaliating against Israel following the death of al-Ata. Accordtions is that the strategic threat of Iran ing to Hamas leaders, the attack on the was dealt a serious blow. It is important PIJ leader was a private matter between to realize that Iran is using the territory of other countries with weak governIsrael and the Palestinians. It was their ments, such as Lebanon, Syria and problem and they would have to find Gaza, to threaten Israel. Israel’s reacways to resolve their differences. It is believed that prior to the attack tion is to make it clear that wherever rockets aimed at Israel originate, the on al-Ata, Israel relayed a message to attackers will face a major strike by Hamas stating that Israel would not atIsrael as it delivers retaliation for any tack Hamas as long as they refrained attempt to harm or destroy it. from firing rockets into Israel. Thus, all remained quiet on the Hamas front. Presently, there is quiet on the The second reason for Hamas absentGaza-Israel front. The Palestinians are ing its forces from the confrontation is dealing with the need to find a sucthe growing discontent in Gaza over cessor to al-Ata. They must also dethe failure of Hamas to improve the cide what the relationship will be with living conditions of the Palestinians. Hamas and how their actions affect To join the PIJ in its struggle with the wishes of Iran in the area. The Pal-
estinians no longer wish to be considered the suffering servant of Hamas. They may have lost a vital leader, but they have not ceased to seek ways to do battle against Israel, with or without the aid of Hamas. Israel is aware of the changing attitudes in the Gaza region. The more division that exists between the Palestinians and Hamas, the better Israel feels. The more problems Iran has in determining whether Hamas or Palestinian Islamic Jihad is its real proxy in the area, the better Israel feels. Problems abound in the Arab world. Adding to the concerns facing the anti-Israel forces in the area is the realization that Israel will strike at
I
s t 2 any time it feels it has an opening that allows them to stand up to any and allmen forces determined to destroy its peopleBloc dead and take its land. The future remains clouded andvote unsure, but Israel stands ready to dealto se with any adversary that threatens theto fo state and its people. This fact is clearly understood by Israel’s foes, thus affecting anti-Israel actions, thoughts and desires. Rabbi Howard A. Simon is the founding chair of the Robert and Esther Heller Community Relations Committee, formerly known as the Heller IAI.
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vivor win ry 9, Sur survivor On Februa cer -time can y ner and two will share his stor n our Zoh h with Ethan and strengt ce. Zohn of survival tee audien ana lov ta-M h and e Saraso how his fait will discuss e impacted his life hav will host of Israel lecture, he Prior to his competition for ou yle Survivor-st area teens. nity Lecture (Febr mu sta The Com tures Deborah Lip author, ary 25) fea historian, American Modern J fessor of Dorot Pro and Holocaust S ish History University. Deb ory ies at Em
I www.TheJewishNews.org 3 gram ahad – a pro Shonim B’y Federation – of our Jewish day
Nu m be r 8
February 2020
COMMENTARY
35A
Another crossroad
Similarity yet contempt
sraelis hoped that the second election of the year on November 17, 2019, would result in a government. It didn’t. The parties in the Right Block and the Center-Left block again deadlocked with both short of the 61 votes in the 120-seat Knesset required to select a candidate for Prime Minister to form a government. Israelis vote for a party and not an individual. A party receives a proportionate share of the Knesset seats based on its percentage of the total votes. Harold M. Halpern This encourages multiple parties to represent diverse interests. The only restraint is a party must receive at least 3.25% of the vote – a very minimal requirement. No party in Israel’s history has obtained 61 votes. A coalition of parties has always been necessary to form a government. Today’s world is highly polarized. After approximately 90 days of negotiations, no one could get the necessary votes. The Right coalition of Likud, two Orthodox Religious Parties and Yamid, a Nationalist party, mustered 55 votes for Benjamin Netanyahu – six short. The Center Blue-White coalition with two parties on its left plus commitment from 10 of 13 Arab-Israeli coalitions received promises from 54 members of the Knesset – seven short. Yisrael Beiteinu, led by Avigdor Liberman, said a plague on both of your houses, and together with the three remaining Arab-Israeli members made no commitment. No one could get to 61. The two largest factions, Blue-White and Likud, refused to form a grand coalition. Both Benny Gantz and Netanyahu stated their reasons. For Gantz it was immoral to serve with Netanyahu under criminal charges of bribery and breach of trust. For Netanyahu, a rejection by Gantz to annex the Jordan Valley in the West Bank disqualified him. The more likely reason is that both thought they can do better in a third election. For Netanyahu, it keeps him in office and delays his criminal trial. The next election is scheduled for March 2, 2020. Truly, this is a critical
story tells how one Lubavitcher in mid-19th century Europe explained to another that, “The world, my friend, is divided into two, ‘them’ and ‘us.’ There’s no point talking about ‘them.’ Now us Jews are divided into the Hasidim and those opposing them, the Mitnagdim. And really, there’s no point talking about Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz the Mitnagdim. Among us Hasidim there are basically two kinds, Satmar and Lubavitch. No point talking about the former. With Lubavitch there are the scholars and those that just join in the farbrengen socials. Of course, no point talking about the farbrengen, so this leaves the scholars among us, you and me. And everyone recognizes how little you know.” This humorous yet mordant anecdote reflects what Freud called “the narcissism of small differences,” a term associated with the longing for distinct identity. According to the founder of psychoanalysis, because the perceived uniqueness of a person is threatened by others who appear too much like him, an overemphasizing of relatively small differences between them is undertaken to enhance ego strength and sense of personal superiority. “It is precisely the minor differences in people who are otherwise alike that form the basis of feelings of hostility between them,” Freud wrote in drawing on earlier work by British anthropologist Ernest Crawley. This idea is witnessed today in the tension found between Sunni and Shiite Muslims, Serbs and Croats, Fleming and Walloon in Belgium, Catholics and Protestants, and within the Jewish community and many others as well. Of course, division can also be found in families where sibling conflict can be quite pronounced. A healthy individual or group identity should strive to evince what it is for, not simply what it is against. Its aim is not to find fault or inferiority in others but to productively fulfill the potential of the identity’s inherent distinctiveness. In other words, we don’t have to seek out differences in others
By Harold M. Halpern
I
period. Netanyahu serves as a caretaker Prime Minister without a Knesset, without a budget and with a divided electorate unsure if another election will continue the deadlock and whether democracy and its government can function to provide for its needs. What is the likely outcome? The divide over the issues remains. The Right wants to continue with Netanyahu as Prime Minister, annex the Jordan Valley in the West Bank, maintain the religious status quo under the Orthodox Rabbinate, and weaken the power of the Supreme Court to review actions of the Knesset, including a right to overrule its decisions. The Center-Left wants Netanyahu to go; to modify the strictures of Orthodox Rabbinate control over daily lives, marriage and the military exemption of Orthodox students until age 35; maintain strong security in the West Bank without annexation to keep open the future possibility for a two-state solution; and maintain the power of the Supreme Court as a check on the action of the Knesset. Yet, this election will have some difference. Voters may realize the stakes and turn out in higher numbers. Gantz has established his credentials as a viable candidate. Criminal charges against Netanyahu may lose him votes, but yet, is that enough? It may not be for Gantz. Netanyahu’s lost votes may go to other Right parties. A couple of extreme Right parties that missed the threshold vote in November may garner enough in March to take seats, while at the same time, minor Left parties that made the threshold may fail. If this occurs, the Right may get 61 votes. And Liberman may again have the power to tip Right or Center-Left. But public pressure may demand a broad coalition rather than a narrow government. The parties may rise to the occasion and compromise their interests for a decent period of time to give the country some stability. This is the hope of the Israel public. Democracy will then have met its test. Stay tuned. Harold M. Halpern, a retired attorney living for 12 years in Lakewood Ranch, is a board member of the American Association of Jewish lawyers and Justices, and a board member of the Sarasota Chapter of the American Jewish Committee.
By Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz, Community Chaplain
A
in order to fortify our egos because we are already intrinsically unique from any other human being that will ever walk the face of the earth. The question is how willing we are to actually cultivate our innate specialness since this is something that requires considerable resolve and resilience. For many, the easier road to differentiation is to just depreciate others or simply pursue a path of nonconformity. But while the non-conformist may believe he is highlighting his singularity by doing so, this contrived iconoclasm actually distances him from realizing the possibility of unfolding his authentic self. Our given ethnic, religious, national and other group identities should serve to encourage the exploration and growth required to achieve true individuation. Too often, though, they are utilized instead to narrowly define our identity parameters, thereby foreclosing our potential capacities in myriad realms. Tellingly, “the narcissism of minor differences” phenomenon seems to have been especially borne out with the advent of the internet, cell phones and social media, as they underscore just how much humanity, indeed, has in common. Food, fashion and entertainment have become internationalized to the point that lifestyles and consumer desires are now fairly universal. But this accentuated appreciation of sameness has led to an unparalleled unleashing of antipathy via Twitter, Facebook and ubiquitous electronic message boards. In increasingly recognizing our similarity we, as Freud theorized, are also fighting against it. Nevertheless, there may be some room for optimism. In the face of a global existential threat like global warming, we will, ultimately, and despite our hostilities, be compelled to come together to address it. It may be that the creativity, resourcefulness and compromises required for this will lead, by necessity, to the building of real bridges of trust and mutuality among people. Hopefully, this will occur before it is too late. Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz serves as a Community Chaplain and Director of JFCS’s Jewish Healing Program. His position is underwritten by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.
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36A
February 2020
Celebrate the “Birthday of the Trees”
Education Corner
By Laura Freedman
N
ature captures the fascination of young children. They enjoy discovering the many varieties of beautiful flowers, the multitude of colors and shapes of leaves, and the life cycles and parts of plants. Early childhood and primary-age children learn best by doing and experiencing through their senses, and the plant world is suited well for that sensory learning. This month, we celebrate the holiday of Tu B’Shevat, a celebration of plants and new life. It is a lovely way to “marry” children’s wonder to the beauty and significance of nature. Outdoor classrooms have become a special addition to many schools. The goal of these unique spaces is to give students opportunities to interact with nature. In the natural setting, they experiment and explore different textures and species of flora. Teachers can introduce the life cycle of plants with hands-on gardening and a chance to tend to their plantings. Helping children connect with nature and understand the importance of our trees and all they do for us is a bridge for them to want to take good care of them, again
immersing their senses with activities and exercises in the garden and continuing to learn by doing. The concept of recycling to help save our trees is another connection easily introduced in the context of the holiday. Teaching respect for all living things and for our planet while talking about Tu B’Shevat provides students with the knowledge they need to begin to form positive lifelong behaviors and habits that protect and preserve our ecosystem. Many Jewish preschools and religious schools dub the holiday, the “Birthday of the Trees.” It captures the attention of children when they associate parties with a holiday. Their background experience with parties is filled with exciting gatherings and festivities. Educators can bring that joy to a recognition of the trees and plants in our world. A celebration recognizing the contribution of trees and the plant world is important and a whole lot of fun for everyone. Children can sing “Happy Birthday” (Yom Huledet Sameach) to the trees, snack on broccoli and dip treats to remind them of the trees, and create artwork and group projects incorporating natural materials that they may find on nature walks in celebration of the trees. All of these activities focus on trees! Tu B’Shevat is one holiday that piques the interest of children of all ages – planting, nurturing, creating, recycling and celebrating, all in appreciation of our planet earth and our trees. Get together with that special little one in your life (a child, grandchild, niece, nephew or “grandfriend”) this holiday, and spend some time discovering the beauty of nature through the eyes of children. Laura Freedman is the Director of Early Childhood Education at The Gan at Temple Sinai.
FOCUS ON YOUTH
Haggigat Hanukkah at Temple Emanu-El
By Sabrina Silverberg, MARE, Director of Education
E
ach year, Temple Emanu-El Religious School (TEERS) holds a family education day, a Sunday morning when parents and grandparents join TEERS students to engage in hands-on, meaningful Jewish learning. This year, the family education day was held on December 15, and was titled Haggigat Hanukkah – the story of Hanukkah. It provided a great opportunity to kick off the Hanukkah season with laughter, fun and joyful learning. More than 150 parents, grandparents and children of all ages were in attendance. The program began with a special visit from the “man of the hour” – Hanukkah hero Judah Maccabee – and a hilarious play that was performed by the Gesher class (7th grade). The festivities continued with a Hanukkah story walk that included symbolic foods, Hanukkah crafts and educational activities that provided time for family reflection. Everyone enjoyed playing with dreidels and sampling gelt, doughnuts and latkes with homemade applesauce. Each station
was dedicated to a different segment of the Hanukkah story and featured activities inspired by that segment. Children created Maccabee shields and edible dreidels. They decorated Star of David cookies that soon after disappeared! The Hanukkah education day was framed with the Jewish values of resilience, courage and faith. As one TEERS mother put it, “The program today was great. We learned a lot about the history of Hanukkah and had fun, too. My daughter loved it!” For more information about Temple Emanu-El Religious School and family programs at Temple Emanu-El, please call 941.378.5567.
Skylar and grandmother Sandi Chapnick
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F AM I L Y E V E N T Temple Emanu-El Presents
STRAWBERRY FIELDS TOT SHABBAT
Join us for a special morning at Hunsader Farms as we explore the playground, feed the animals, enjoy a train ride, and participate in age-appropriate Shabbat blessings, songs, and movement with Rabbi Michael Shefrin. Bring a picnic lunch if you’d like—we’ll treat you to an ice cream dessert! WHEN Saturday, February 29 11:00 am
WHERE Hunsader Farms 5500 Co. Rd. 675 Bradenton
COST This Event is FREE
Register at JFEDSRQ.org/PJ For more information please contact Rabbi Michael Shefrin at 941.371.2788. SPONSORED BY
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APPLY ONLINE AT JFEDSRQ.org/EducationScholarships For more information contact
Lisa Feinman at lfeinman@jfedsrq.org or 941.706.0034
The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish LIfe 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota, FL 34232
FOCUS ON YOUTH
February 2020
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Community Day School students spread Hanukkah joy through visits to seniors
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tudents from Sarasota’s Hershorin Schiff Community Day School spread Hanukkah joy on the final day of school before winter break. The K-2 students traveled to Aviva - A Campus for Senior Life to perform Hanukkah songs and distribute holiday cards they made in school. They were thrilled to receive goody bags and cards from residents. The third and fourth graders went to The Inn at The Fountains at Lake Pointe Woods to perform Hanukkah songs and play the traditional dreidel game with residents there. Afterward, the children returned to Community Day for a school-wide
Hanukkah party. The students at Community Day School enjoy numerous intergenerational opportunities. In recent years, students from Community Day and residents at Aviva have enjoyed gatherings for Shabbat and Jewish holidays as well as projects incorporating the sharing of stories, and creation of memory books and family trees, among other activities. The students also enjoy the Apple Muffin Project and “Baking with Bubbies” program, in partnership with the Sisterhood at Temple Beth Sholom. Longtime Community Day School teacher Barbara O’Brien is thrilled for
the opportunity to bring her students to area senior residences. “Many of our students don’t have grandparents here in town and their opportunities to spend time with older people are very limited,” she said. “I’ve found that our kids absolutely light up when we tell them we’re going to do something to make other people smile. They definitely enjoyed their time celebrating Hanukkah with their new friends at Aviva and The Fountains!”
Community Day School student Sophie Lirio with Aviva resident Miriam Ring
Hershorin Schiff Community Day School Preschool - 8th grade
Aviva resident Melva Marmion is thrilled to receive a Hanukkah card from Community Day students Ava Rupp and Cayden Stolarski
The Gan Trike-a-Thon raises money for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital By Gail Glickman
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The Community Day School difference: A Jewish day school that is committed to diversity Rigorous, project-based learning Healthy and active outdoor learning daily Music and art for every child, every week, all year Competitive athletics Variable Tuition Model – affordable for every family Accredited by FCIS, FKC & PRIZMAH
Hershorin Schiff Community Day School 1050 S. Tuttle Ave. Sarasota (941) 552-2770 | admissions@communityday.org
www.CommunityDay.org
FAMILY jfedsrq.org
THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.
F AM I L Y E V E N T Chabad of Sarasota Presents
POLKA DOT PURIM PARTY
Enjoy family time and spirit of the Purim holiday with loud and joyful instruments from around the world, and making your own polka-dot hamentashen! Hot dog dinner will be served (vegetarian options available upon request). WHEN Wednesday, March 4 5:00 pm
WHERE Chabad of Sarasota’s Weinstein After School Jewish Enrichment Program 7700 Beneva Road, Sarasota
COST This Event is FREE
Register at JFEDSRQ.org/PJ For more information please contact Sara Steinmetz at 941.925.0770 or Sara@ChabadOfSarasota.com. SPONSORED BY
ota-Mana as t
ee
and helmet safety along with doing a mitzvah for others. The week leading up to the event teaches children to always wear a helmet when they ride, to always look where they are going, to ride on the sidewalk and be careful around driveways, and that it is a mitzvah to do good for others. Most important, the focus is on safety first. This is not a race. Everyone is a winner when we help others. This beautiful tradition of doing good deeds for others while biking safely was enjoyed by all. The Gan collaboration with St. Jude’s will continue year after year. Laura Freedman, Director of Early Childhood Education, emphasized how this annual program is in keeping with The Gan at Temple Sinai’s mission of growing minds, strengthening bodies and nurturing souls.
Sa r
ikes, Cozy Coupes, balance bikes and scooters all riding around a decorated course of flags, colorful cones and balloons was the sight you saw when you walked into The Gan at Temple Sinai on November 15. The Gan has been raising money for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital for over a decade with its annual Trikea-Thon. Leading up to the race, Gan children raise money from family and friends to donate to St. Jude’s, a hospital that is internationally recognized for its pioneering work in finding cures and saving children, solely supported by donations. Over the last decade, The Gan children, family and friends have raised more than $10,000 during the annual Trike-a-Thon. The funds go directly to the children at St. Jude’s. All 60 members of The Gan at Temple Sinai had a great time participating in the annual event. It was fun to see the children get excited while they learned about the importance of bike
Where students learn, lead and laugh together
Chabad
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February 2020
FOCUS ON YOUTH
Join young families at “Strawberry Fields Tot Shabbat” This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Y
oung Jewish and interfaith families are warmly invited to spend Shabbat in the strawberry fields at “Strawberry Fields Tot Shabbat” on Saturday, February 29 at 11:00 a.m. at Hunsader Farms. A very special opportunity to celebrate Shabbat, the blessings of nature, and the taste of fresh-picked strawberries, “Strawberry Fields Tot Shabbat” is one of Temple Emanu-El’s signature events, and is proudly presented in partnership with The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and PJ Library. This wonderful morning will begin with socializing with old and new friends as children explore the playground area and feed the animals in the newly enhanced petting zoo. After playtime (and generous spritzes
of hand sanitizer!), families will participate in an age-appropriate outdoor Shabbat worship experience, featuring songs, blessings, movement, and a
Sasha Leopold and Eliana Lasko-Scott at last year’s Strawberry Fields Tot Shabbat
Sarasota BBYO
This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee By Jessica Zimmerman, Associate Regional Dir., North Florida Region
I
n December, Sarasota BBYO gathered for two exciting events. The first was a movie night and potluck. BBYO teens enjoyed Grease in a movie room with lots of pizza and snacks. One week later, Sarasota hosted Tampa BBYO for Global Shabbat, an international BBYO initiative to create something meaningful around the theme of Shabbat. Twenty teens gathered for this special event that encompassed Havdalah, unique programming crafted by BBYO teens themselves, and lots of food. This month, our BBYO teens are pumped for International Convention (IC) in Dallas on February 13-17. IC has become an unparalleled convening, offering a powerful, strategic and
inspiring platform from which the best and brightest teen and adult leaders from across the Jewish world (and beyond) unite to celebrate, dream and take action to continue strengthening the future. With nearly 5,000 total attendees, opportunities to participate in direct service and unique Shabbat services, and appearances from very special guests – to name a few things to look forward to – IC 2020 is going to be off the charts. To be added to our email list and receive updates about BBYO programming, email me at jesszimmerman@ bbyo.org. I hope to hear from you and welcome you to Sarasota BBYO.
story with Temple Emanu-El Associate org/events. For more information, Rabbi Michael Shefrin. Families are please call Rabbi Michael Shefrin at then invited to unpack and enjoy their 941.371.2788. We look forward to celbrown-bag lunches. We will then head ebrating Tot Shabbat with you in the to the strawberry fields to pick fresh strawberry fields! For more informadelicious strawberries for dessert. The tion about PJ Library, please contact Andrea Eiffert at aeiffert@jfedsrq.org morning will finish up with a train ride as well as mini ice cream cups for all or 941.552.6308. the little ones. Although this special event is designed especially for families with children up to age 6, older kids are also warmly invited. Spaces are limited for “Strawberry Fields Tot Shabbat,” and early registration is encouraged. Please reserve your family’s The Weber and Feld families enjoyed the train ride spot at www.jfedsrq. at last year’s Strawberry Fields Tot Shabbat
Menorah Building Workshop a huge hit for families This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
F
amilies from around the area got in the Chanukah spirit with a Home Depot Menorah Building Workshop on Sunday, December 8. The sounds of children laughing, hammers banging and Chanukah music playing brought the festive atmosphere of Chanukah to Home Depot. It was exciting to see close to 100 children gathering
Carly and Stella Guido
together to prepare for Chanukah. In addition to building and painting menorahs, children received a Chanukah gift bag with their very own menorahs and glow-in-the-dark Chanukah toys. They got their faces painted, prepared Chanukah cards for residents at Aviva - A Campus for Senior Life, tasted delicious latkes and doughnuts, and enjoyed a Chanukah Stick-It Together Art Project. Rabbi Mendy Bukiet spoke about the message of Chanukah and the importance of adding light in the world with acts of goodness and kindness. Three children were the lucky winners of a Maccabot Chanukah Dancing Robot and an Emoji Menorah. The Menorah Building Workshop was organized and sponsored by Chabad of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, PJ Library and Home Depot.
READ—SING—DANCE—GATHER—GROW PJ Library® has partnered with The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee to provide families raising Jewish children with the gift of free, high-quality children’s books, music, and resources that foster deeper engagement with Jewish life in our community.
Join one of our PJ programs below to start enhancing your family’s Jewish journey.
Children Ages 6 mo. thru 8 years
Sign-up at
JFEDSRQ.org/PJ
Children Ages 8 thru 12 years
Sign-up at
pjourway.org
For more information, contact Andrea Eiffert aeiffert@jfedsrq.org 941.552.6308 PJ Library Sarasota-Manatee is generously funded in part by Edie and David Chaifetz.
The Balas family enjoys the Menorah Building Workshop
Read the current and previous editions of The Jewish News online at www.jfedsrq.org.
s
February 2020
LIFE CYCLE ANNIVERSARIES
55th Robert & Sylvia Kupferman Temple Emanu-El
15th Lauren & Brian Hersh Temple Sinai
B’NAI MITZVAH
Devin Brown (pictured), son of Josh & Jennifer Brown, December 26, Chabad of Venice Jordan Heller, son of Megan & Dr. Adam Heller, February 1, Temple Emanu-El Eli Hanan, son of Alyson & Rubin Hanan, February 8, Temple Emanu-El Rocco Rell, son of Erica & Dr. Brian Rell, February 15, Temple Emanu-El Hayden Stroud, son of Emily & Robert Stroud, February 15, Temple Emanu-El
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Celebrating
Jewish Lives
For three generations, families of all faiths have turned to Toale Brothers for support and guidance at the most difficult of times. As our liaison to the Jewish community, Rabbi Howard A. Simon provides guidance and outreach with a focus on keeping with the traditions and customs of Judaism.
IN MEMORIAM
Naomi Adelman, of Sarasota, formerly of New York, December 2019 Charles Barancik, 91, of Sarasota, formerly of Chicago, IL, December 18 Margery Barancik, 83, of Sarasota, formerly of Chicago, IL, December 19 Martin E. Cohen, 73, of Sarasota, formerly of Dublin, Ireland, December 2 Jacqueline Gilden, of Sarasota, formerly of Philadelphia, PA, December 12 Dr. Milton Gurvitz, 99, of Sarasota, formerly of New York, October 16 Sandra C. Hanan, 80, of Sarasota, formerly of Birmingham, AL, December 24 Annette Long, 92, of Sarasota, December 2 Carol Michelman, 93, of Sarasota, formerly of Lloyd Neck, NY, November 30 Sheila Olin, 82, of Sarasota, formerly of Chicago, IL, December 8 Harold Rogovin, 88, of Sarasota, formerly of New Haven, CT, December 16 Dr. Samuel Rosenfeld, 68 of Sarasota, formerly of Ventnor, NJ, December 1 Jeanette Siegel, 99, of Sarasota, December 6 Rita Sinaiko, 89, of Sarasota, formerly of Madison, WI, December 10 Sylvan Tanner, 100, of Sarasota, formerly of Chicago, IL, December 18 Dr. Philip Warren, 90, of Sarasota, formerly of Waterbury, CT, November 28 Harold Weinstein, of Sarasota, formerly of Clifton, NJ, December 4
Submit your life cycle events (births, B’nai Mitzvah, anniversaries) to jewishnews@jfedsrq.org. Photos welcome; please e-mail as JPGs at 300dpi.
ToaleBrothers.com • 941.955.4171 Proudly serving Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice since 1912.
Sarasota-Manatee Chevra Kadisha For more information about the non-profit, community, Jewish Burial Society, contact:
For men: 941-484-2790 For women: 941-346-6446
1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34237
PALMS MEMORIAL PARK 170 Honore Avenue Sarasota, FL 34232 941.371.4962 Fax 941.295.7009
Gerald “Gerry” Ronkin Jewish Community Liaison 170 Honore Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34232
Office 941-371-4962 Cell 941-809-5195
WIEGAND CHAPEL 7454 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231 941.921.5755 Fax 941.923.0113
MANASOTA MEMORIAL PARK 1221 53rd Avenue East Bradenton, FL 34203 941.755.2688 Fax 941.201.1640
Gerry.Ronkin@DignityMemorial.com Gerr
For a confidential conversation or tour of our modern facilities with a member of the Robert Toale family, please reach out to one of our three locations to schedule an appointment.
Not affiliated with Toale Brothers Funeral Home or Toale Brothers Inc.
MOVING?
Be sure THE JEWISH NEWS follows you to your new home. Send your new address to Paula at pibishop@jfedsrq.org or 941.371.4546 x0
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February 2020
PAINTING A NEW VISION of S arasota Condominium Living
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Broker Participation is welcomed and encouraged. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE SELLER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A SELLER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Prices, availability, artist’s renderings, dimensions, specifications, and features are subject to change at any time without notice.
Celebrating Jewish Life in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Israel and the World FEDERATION NEWS
Ce
Years g 0 5 n i t a lebr
PUBLISHED BY
The Jewish Federation OF SARASOTA-MANATEE
THE LARRY & MARY GREENSPON FAMILY CAMPUS FOR JEWISH LIFE
February 2020 - Shevat/Adar 5780
www.jfedsrq.org
Volume 50, Number 2
Jewish Happenings SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 3
Temple Sinai Men’s Club Soiree
The Tefillin Club
Temple Sinai’s Men’s Club presents a fun evening with entertainment led by a professional trivia moderator and disc jockey, Bob Baxter. The evening starts with a heavy hors d’oeuvre buffet, followed by a trivia contest with prizes, dessert buffet and dancing. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). The cost is $30 for temple members and $32 for non-members. For more information, contact Malcolm Roberts at migdalor2@gmail.com, or Richard Brown at richards442@ gmail.com.
Get your week off to a great start with the Monday morning Tefillin Club at 8:00 a.m. at Chabad Education Center, 21560 Angela Lane, Venice. Shacharit will be followed by coffee and bagels, and a 15-minute “Living Torah” film. Each week, Rabbi Sholom Schmerling will expound on a different prayer, thus enabling each participant to really learn how to pray. No prior experience necessary. (If you don’t have a pair of tefillin, we have one for you.) For more information, contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabadofvenice.com.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2 TBS Breakfast Program: “The Richie Boys” Because so much of the information is classified, few know about these amazing young German-Jews who were recruited and trained by the U.S. military in counterespionage and interrogation techniques and the critical role they played in defeating the Nazis. Receive a firsthand account from the son of one of these extraordinary war heroes. This program, sponsored by the Temple Beth Sholom Men’s Club and Continuing Education, begins at 9:30 a.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. The cost of $10 includes breakfast. For more information, contact Kelly Nester at 941.955.8121 or info@templebethsholomfl.org.
Kabbalah & Coffee Start your week with a spiritual boost! Discuss, explore and journey through the world of mystical teachings and learn how to apply them to your daily life. This ongoing Tanya class will probe the esoteric through a unique program of English text-based study. No prior Kabbalistic experience required. Free of charge and walk-ins are welcome. Join us at 9:30 a.m. at Chabad Education Center, 21560 Angela Lane, Venice. For more information, contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabadofvenice.com.
Stay connected @ www.jfedsrq.org
Speak Out, Stand Up Against Anti-Semitism Each month we meet with community members dedicated to outspoken opposition to anti-Semitism in the Manasota area. Little-reported or publicized, virulent anti-Semitic acts have repeatedly been perpetrated locally with scant protests from the Jewish and general communities. Why are local crimes against Jews and Jewish property not prosecuted or even investigated? Everyone needs to learn strategies to prevent and effectively address proliferating local anti-Semitism, such as the swastikas recently painted on the entrance to a beautiful Manatee neighborhood. Join us for this discussion at noon at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per student; healthy kosher refreshments included. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.
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JEWISH HAPPENINGS
February 2020 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5
One-Day Trip to the Rebbe’s Ohel
The Gan’s “Mind in the Making” Workshop
Wednesday, February 5, or the 10 of Shevat on the Hebrew calendar, marks 70 years of the Rebbe’s leadership. To honor this special day, Chabad of Sarasota is organizing a one-day trip to the Ohel (the resting place of the Lubavitch Rebbe) located in Cambria Heights, New York, on Tuesday, February 4. We will fly from TPA at 7:00 a.m. Rabbi Chaim & Sara Steinmetz welcome community members to join this trip, which which costs $117 roundtrip. The trip will include a tour of interesting places in Crown Heights, time to shop at Judaica stores and to enjoy lunch and dinner together before flying from JFK to TPA at 7:00 p.m. For more information, contact Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz at 941.925.0770 or rabbi@ chabadofsarasota.com.
The Gan at Temple Sinai presents an opportunity to join a learning adventure designed to help you and your children thrive. “Mind in the Making” is a learning workshop geared for parents, grandparents, child care professionals, early learning educators and caregivers, focusing on controlling behavior and other specific areas of child development and learning. Join us at 9:15 a.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). To register, contact Judy Polivy at teachtel21@frontier.com or 941.355.1184.
th
The Original Brown Bag with Rabbi Geoff Huntting
Join the most popular Jewish Women’s book club in town at “Caffeine for the Soul.” Get your weekly social and spiritual boost over a roundtable discussion led by Chaya Rivka Schmerling. Enjoy coffee and homemade pastries. Walk-ins are welcome to this free event at 10:00 a.m. at Chabad Education Center, 21560 Angela Lane, Venice. The Book Club also meets at the same time on Tuesday, February 11. For more information, contact Chaya Rivka Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rivka@chabadofvenice.com.
Temple Sinai has a longstanding tradition of Rabbi Geoff Huntting hosting a brown bag lunch and discussion of timely topics. Join with congregants, friends and neighbors in spirited conversations surrounding worldly events. Bring a bag lunch and an open mind to discuss important issues. This free workshop is open to the community. Participants are encouraged to introduce ideas for discussion, analysis and/or debate. Join us at 11:45 a.m. on Wednesdays, February 5, 12, 19 and 26 at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). For more information, contact the temple office at 941.924.1802 or office@sinaisrq.org.
NCJW’s “The Blankee Bee”
Temple Emanu-El “Lunch with the Rabbis”
The National Council of Jewish Women has an ongoing project called “The Blankee Bee.” The project has involved its members in making nosew fleece blankets which have been distributed to various agencies, such as Manatee Community Action Agency, HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters), residents of Anchin Pavilion, patients at the Florida Cancer Center, and children at Camp Mariposa as a joint venture with JFCS of the Suncoast. Join us from 10:00 a.m. to noon on JFCS of the Suncoast’s Weinberg Campus (2688 Fruitville Road, Sarasota) to make these blankets. For more information, please contact Dale Gruder at lifesabeachbag@gmail.com or 941.554.8592.
Are you looking for a great lunch date? Join Rabbi Brenner Glickman, Rabbi Michael Shefrin and friendly, interesting companions for lunch, socializing, and a discussion of current events and subjects of Jewish interest. All are invited to this popular, stimulating and enjoyable program at noon at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Attendees are asked to bring a brown-bag lunch and are also welcome to bring a newspaper article for discussion. Homemade dessert and terrific company are provided! For more information, call the temple office at 941.371.2788.
The Jewish Women’s Book Club
“Judaism’s Gifts to the World” Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
“Judaism’s Gifts to the World” Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Chabad of Venice will offer “Judaism’s Gifts to the World,” a new sixsession course by the acclaimed Rohr Jewish Learning Institute, unearthing the Jewish roots of some of the most cherished values of Western civilization. We will face toward Jerusalem to discover how common ideas of personal responsibility, the inherent sanctity of human life, institutionalized universal education, human equality, the dignity of a day of rest and devotion to family, and a sense of purpose have their origins in ancient Judaism. Classes begin at 7:30 p.m. at Chabad Education Center, 21560 Angela Lane, Venice. The first class is free. To register or for more information, visit www.chabadofvenice.com/jli or call 941.493.2770.
The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) presents a new six-session course on how major Jewish ideas have become universal values. An analysis of Jewish contributions past and present allows us to define ways in which Judaism can continue serving as a beacon of light and wisdom for all humanity. Classes meet at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, February 5, 12, 19 and 26 at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. The cost of $75 includes the textbooks. JLI courses are sponsored in part by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 or rabbi@chabadofbradenton.com.
SAVE THE
DALET presents acclaimed author and speaker
DATE
Vo
Mark your calendar: Sunday, March 29 2:00 pm Temple Emanu-El 151 McIntosh Road Sarasota, FL 34232
Buy your tickets today and save! $18 until March 20 $25 at the door Register at www.sarasotatemple.org
TE
EN
AVI JORISCH
M S F O WO R THURSDAY MARCH 26 5PM
Michael’s On East Mr. Jorisch will share how Israeli innovations are helping to repair the world, one astounding discovery at a time, exemplifying the spirit of tikkun olam. Mr. Jorisch is a Middle East expert and Senior Fellow at the American Foreign Policy Council. His articles have appeared in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, Foreign Affairs, Forbes and Al-Arabiya.net. Thou Shalt Innovate has been translated into over 30 languages.
PASSO S ’ N E M WO
ATION R B E L E VER C
Suffrage ’s n e m o ars of W e y 0 0 1 g in Celebrat
ONLINE REGISTRATION BEGINS FEBRUARY 24 Sponsored by
Co-Chairs: Janis, Mary & Ella Collier (representing three generations)
QUESTIONS? Contact Lisa Feinman,
lfeinman@jfedsrq.org or 941.706.0034
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
February 2020
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6
COMING TO THE
“Why We Sing What We Sing” Temple Sinai’s Chazzan Cliff Abramson presents a fascinating music workshop examining the evolution of synagogue music through a lens that allows the student to use what has been experienced in the synagogue, camp or youth group to develop a deeper understanding of synagogue music. Many recorded musical examples are used to facilitate learning and enjoyment. Join us at 10:15 a.m. on Thursdays, February 6, 13, 20 and 27 at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). For more information, contact the temple office at 941.924.1802 or office@sinaisrq.org.
Lunch & Learn: Jewish Justices of the Supreme Court Some of the most influential Jews in American History served as Supreme Court Justices. This series, taught by Judge Judith Barzilay, will focus on these individuals and how they played significant roles in the lives of Americans. The session themes are: February 6 - The Pioneers: Brandeis and Cardozo; February 13 - The Enigma and Influence of Felix Frankfurter; February 20 - The Double Tragedy: Goldberg and Fortas; February 27 - The Moderns: Ginsberg, Breyer and Kagan. The programs begin at noon at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. No charge for TBS members; $5 per class for non-members. For more information, contact Kelly Nester at 941.955.8121 or info@templebethsholomfl.org. Photo Credit: Joan Marcus
Women of Sinai Catered Luncheon & Program Join the Women of Sinai at a catered luncheon by Chef Adam Woldman and a presentation by Temple Sinai’s Rabbi Samantha Kahn. The event begins at noon at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). For details, contact Suzanne Weinstein at suziweinstein@icloud.com.
SUN, FEB 16 • 7PM SARASOTA PREMIERE!
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Tu B’shvat Family Celebration at Chabad Kaplan Preschool Tu B’shvat, the Jewish Arbor Day, will be celebrated with parents and children at 9:00 a.m. at Chabad’s Kaplan Preschool, 7700 Beneva Road, Sarasota. Parents with children ages 2-5 are welcome to join a fun-filled morning replete with crafts, planting, songs, a smoothie tasting and more. This event is free of charge and open to the community. For more information or to RSVP, contact Sara Steinmetz at 941.925.0770 or sara@ chabadofsarasota.com.
TUES, MAR 3 • 7:30PM
Rhythm & Jews Erev Shabbat Service Join Rabbi Samantha Kahn, Chazzan Cliff Abramson, congregants and friends for a festive Rhythm & Jews Erev Shabbat Service at 6:00 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). A welcome reception begins at 5:15 p.m. Celebrate with the inspirational sounds of the Bruno Family Musicians. For more information, contact the temple office at 941.924.1802 or office@sinaisrq.org.
First Fridays at Chabad Enjoy an inspiring Friday night service and a delicious Shabbat Oneg with a special selection of kosher wines from around the world in an inviting atmosphere with friends. First Fridays at 5:30 p.m. at Chabad of Venice (21560 Angela Lane) is a monthly community gathering to pray, schmooze and enjoy time together. It’s an opportunity to celebrate Shabbat, make new friends, see familiar faces and be part of the community. For more information, please contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabadofvenice.com.
WED, MAR 11 • 8PM
You’d have to be a
Meshuganah not to advertise! DEADLINE Feb. 3 March 2 March 31 May 1 June 1 July 1
Contact Adam Kaplan at akaplan@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6307. Download the Media Kit at JFEDSRQ.org/Advertising
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2020
ISSUE MARCH 2020 APRIL 2020 MAY 2020 JUNE 2020 JULY 2020 AUGUST 2020
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2019–
Reserve your space in upcoming editions of The Jewish News:
UPC
See pa
ge 14
s , Is r a el and the W PUB o r ld LIS HED
August
2 0 19 -
INSID E THIS
Tammu
8 Com ISSU m E: 15 Jew unity Focus ish 19 Jew Happenings ish Inte rest 24 Isra el 28 Com & the Jewish World m 31 Focu entary s 35 Life on Youth Cycle
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SAT, MAR 21 • 8PM
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New LIFE commun & LEG ity le ader ACY “ for Staff
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Box Office: M-F 10-6, Sat 10-4, Open Later on Show Days Prices, dates and times subject to change without notice.
941.263.6799 vanwezel.org
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JEWISH HAPPENINGS
February 2020
Suddenly single Planning today for a future you, or someone in your life, did not envision
Discover the seven steps toward financial confidence and learn how you can be ready, whether you or someone in your life: • Has an ailing or healthy partner • Is reconsidering their relationship • Is single through divorce, death, illness, accident or choice Choose one of two dates: Wednesday, April 1, 2020 | 2 p.m.–3:30 p.m Jewish Congregation of Venice 600 North Auburn Road | Venice, FL 34292 Wednesday, April 22, 2020 | 2 p.m.–3:30 p.m Sarasota City Center 1819 Main Street | Sarasota, FL 34236
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Observing Darwin Day and Tu B’Shevat The Congregation for Humanistic Judaism presents its Tu B’Shevat service and choir at 10:30 a.m. at Unity, 3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota. This will be followed by Tish Sacks, Director of Education for the Bishop Museum of Nature and Science, discussing “Not Cute, Not Fuzzy – species who missed the conservation bandwagon.” Free and open to the public. Donations accepted. For more information, call 941.929.7771 or email chjsarasota@hotmail.com.
Tu B’Shevat Seder It is the custom on Tu B’Shevat to eat from the Shiv’at HaMinim, the seven species of the land of Israel – wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives and dates – that have a special significance in Judaism. The Tu B’Shevat Seder celebrates our yearning to return to the land of Israel and is based primarily on Kabbalistic sources. Join us at 12:30 p.m. at the Chabad of Venice (21560 Angela Lane) for this special tradition. For more information, contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabadofvenice.com.
“Romanticism Throughout the Ages” Concert Eleonora Lvov, internationally acclaimed Russian-Israeli piano virtuosa, plays a broad spectrum of music – with the artist’s own personal impressions and historical remarks. Join her at 2:30 p.m. at Selby Public Library, Geldbart Auditorium, 1331 1st St., Sarasota. The program, “Romanticism Throughout the Ages: An Expression through Music, History & Literature,” includes magnificent works from Beethoven, Chopin and Liszt to the inimitable enchantment and power of Rachmaninov and Gershwin among others. For more information, call 941.358.0235 or visit www.eleonoralvov.com.
RSVP via jfedsrq.org/events or to Brieana Duckett-Graves at (941) 552-6305 or bdgraves@jfedsrq.org. Presented by: Alison Gardner Senior Vice President – Financial Advisor Senior Portfolio Manager – Portfolio Focus Sponsored by:
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9 STEP “Survivor” event with Ethan Zohn Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee Suncoast Pearl Wealth Group www.suncoastpearlwealthgroup.com Investment and insurance products: • Not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency • Not a deposit of, or guaranteed by, the bank or an affiliate of the bank • May lose value © 2020 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. All rights reserved. 19-QP-0755 (01/20)
19-QP-0755_Suncoast_Single_AD_5x9.25_FINAL.indd 1
1/7/20 11:06 AM
Celebra Valentin te e’s D with the ay Pops Or chestra
At this event for high school teens and young adults, Survivor: Africa winner Ethan Zohn will share his stories about winning Survivor, surviving his teen years, and his connection to Judaism and Israel. Zohn will also lead a “Survivor” game challenge! The cost for the program and dinner is just $5 and you can stay to attend the 7:00 p.m. community presentation that follows for free. This event begins at 5:00 p.m. in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Register at jfedsrq.org/events. For more information, contact Andrea Eiffert at 941.552.6308 or aeiffert@jfedsrq.org.
An Evening with Ethan Zohn Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Survivor: Africa winner Ethan Zohn will speak about his journey of survival through navigating his connection to Judaism and Israel, crushing cancer – twice – and moving from sole survivor to humanitarian. This event begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. The cost is $18. Register at jfedsrq.org/events. For more information, contact Andrea Eiffert at 941.552.6308 or aeiffert@jfedsrq.org.
Chabad of Sarasota’s Annual Garage Sale
Featuring tribute artist Carla Del Vilaggio
This is the one you’ve been waiting for! Come browse through our huge selection of merchandise: clothing, furniture, electronics, collectibles, home decor items and much more. All proceeds benefit the Kaplan Preschool. The garage sale begins at 8:00 a.m. at Chabad of Sarasota, 7700 Beneva Road. For more information, or if you have items to donate, call 941.925.0770 or email info@chabadofsarasota.com.
Tu B’Shevat Seder
t Best “...The Nex eeing Thing to S Herself.” Streisand Post -New York
Performances are in Bradenton at the Neel Performing Arts Center and Sarasota at the Riverview Performing Arts Center
The Festival of Trees is one of Judaism’s most aesthetic of holidays, appealing to the senses through “the seven species” of fruits and grains indigenous to Israel: dates, olives, pomegranates, figs, grapes, barley and wheat. Tu B’Shevat is celebrated in Israel when budding fruit enters a new year of life and the first bulbs of spring are beginning to bloom. So celebrate in SaraMana too and feast on “the seven species” and more. Join us at noon at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per student; healthy kosher refreshments included. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.
Bridge...
Saturday, February 8
Anyone?
3:00 pm - Neel PAC
Sunday, February 9 3:00 pm – Riverview PAC
THE BRIDGE GROUP meets
Monday, February 10
Thursday afternoons 1:00–4:00 pm
7:30 pm – Neel PAC
The
ops
Get your tickets today!
Your Community’s Orchestra
Music you love –Musicians you know
www.thepopsorchestra.org 941-926-POPS (7677)
For more information
The Hecht School, The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life Open to intermediate and advanced bridge players.
call Bob Satnick at 941.538.3739
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
February 2020
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10
British Night
NCJW Book Club The National Council of Jewish Women Book Club will discuss Ten Green Bottles by Vivian Jeanette Kaplan from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at the Gulf Gate Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave., Sarasota. The NCJW Sarasota-Manatee section website (ncjwsarasota-manatee.org) has information about the Book Club, the title selections and dates for the current season. Click on Community Services at the top of the page. You will also find Goodreads reviews of the books. Guests welcome. For more information, contact Barbara Aferiat at barbara@aferiat.com or 703.338.7112.
Tuesday, Feb. 11 @ 7:30 pm Church of the Redeemer 222 South Palm Avenue Music & Monologues from Shakespeare’s Henry V, Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet & Julius Caesar In collaboration with actors from Urbanite Theatre
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11
Plus Holst’s Fugal Concerto & Elgar’s Serenade Tickets: $25/adult, $15/student. Order online at:
Just Reel Films
www.chamberorchestrasarasota.org
Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Warsaw: A City Divided tells the story of the creation of the Warsaw Ghetto as seen from both sides of the Ghetto wall, and its legacy in today’s city. The film sheds new light on a tragic time of division, destruction and mass murder, incorporating unknown amateur Polish 8mm found footage and survivor testimony. This screening is free with a suggestion that attendees bring a non-perishable food item for All Faiths Food Bank. It takes place from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Register at jfedsrq.org/reel19. For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org.
For information, call : 219-928-8665
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. We gather monthly to craft and socialize, and our beautiful handiwork has been donated to local new parents as well as needy families in SarasotaManatee and in Israel. Bring your needles or crochet hook and a favorite pattern – we’ll supply the yarn and great company! The group meets at 10:00 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For more information, email Susan Bernstein at susanhope22@comcast.net.
Brandeis National Committee’s Art in the Afternoon Please join the local chapter of Brandeis National Committee (BNC) for Art in the Afternoon. Karin Jones, ASID, will speak on “The Architectural Tale of Two Cities,” detailing the fascinating parallels of Paris and Chicago, their identical world fairs, Baroque ideals of beauty, and the vision of one man. She will also discuss the astonishing divergences because of the opposite energy and sensibility of each country, (France and America), and the reverence for the old vs. love of the new, making each city so diametrically different today. Karin, a native of Chicago, has a degree in History and English from the University of Michigan. The event will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Meadows Country Club, 3101 Longmeadow, Sarasota. Cost: $50 for BNC members and $65 for guests. For more information, contact Janet Tolbert (941.388.9624 or janetrtolbert@gmail.com) or Maris Margulies (941.757.3012 or grandmakabat@aol.com).
celebr
at e
YOM HA’ATZMAUT
Israel Independence Day SAVE THE DATE
Passion Prokofiev
The of
a Great Performers Series concert
Chicago Symphony Orchestra Riccardo Muti, conductor Feb 12 | Van Wezel
The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus For Jewish Life 582 Mcintosh Rd. Sarasota
directs the CSO in this once-in-a-lifetime concert of Prokofiev’s Suite from Romeo and Juliet and Symphony No. 3, Op. 44 (The Fiery Angel).
The Knights
Gil Shaham, violin Feb 25 | Van Wezel Represented by Opus 3 Artists
R FUNl aFgOes!
al
For more information, visit
JFEDSRQ.org/Events
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SARASOTA CONCERT ASSOCIATION
Riccardo Muti • CSO Zell Music Director
SUNDAY, APRIL 26
Contact Jessi Sheslow 941.343.2109 or jsheslow@jfedsrq.org
ARASOTA CONCERT ASSOCIATION
Maestro Riccardo Muti
BEATRICE FRIEDMAN THEATER
FREE ION S ADMIS
S
Great seats still available!
941.225.6500 www.scasarasota.org
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February 2020
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
COMMUNITY LECTURE Tuesday, February 25, 2020
7:00 pm
SARASOTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM 801 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
ADMISSION
$
18
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
ANTISEMITISM
HERE AND NOW Featuring Professor Deborah Lipstadt Dr. Deborah e. LipstaDt , Dorot professor of Holocaust Studies at Emory University in Atlanta, has published and taught about the Holocaust for close to 40 years. The author of six books and numer-
ous articles, she is probably most widely known because of the libel lawsuit brought against her in 1996 by David Irving for having called him a Holocaust denier. Irving was then arguably the world’s leading denier.
“Our monthly Jewish-themed film series focuses on real slices of life we can all relate to.” – ROSANN BLACK
Her TED talk about the trial has received close to 1.2 million views. The movie DENIAL, starring Rachel Weisz and Tom Wilkinson with a screenplay by David Hare, tells the story of this legal battle. It is based on her book HISTORY ON TRIAL: MY DAY
IN COURT WITH A HOLOCAUST DENIER (Harper Collins 2006) and recently reissued as DENIAL (Harper Collins 2016). The film was nominated for a BAFTA award as one of the best British films of the year.
WARSAW: A CITY DIVIDED
Tuesday, February 11, 2020 • 7:00 pm This film sheds new light into the Nazi process of division and resettlement, culminating in nearly destroying Warsaw and in the deaths of thousands. By interweaving the past with the present, it affirms the importance —and the difficulty— of remembering.
Special guest: Howard Chandler, Classroms Without Borders, survivor Auschwitz and Buchenwald camps
Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL
Professor Lipstadt’s book, ANTISEMITISM HERE
AND NOW, was published in January, 2019. In addition to an American edition, the book will be published in the UK, Germany, Czech Republic, and Israel. She has also written HOLOCAUST: AN AMERICAN UN-
DERSTANDING (Rutgers, 2016) which explores how America has understood and interpreted the Holocaust since 1945.
BOYCOTT THIS!
Tuesday, March 3, 2020 • 6:30 pm Viewers join comedian Brad Stine on a journey in search of truth that takes him across the US and Israel, learning first-hand how, if successful, the BDS movement would destroy the livelihoods of thousands of Palestinian families.
Special guest: Producer Laurie Cardoza-Moore with Q&A
Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL
ASK DR. RUTH
“LIPSTADT’S SWEEPING, ACCESSIBLE EDUCATION ON MODERN ANTI-SEMITISM IS A WELCOME STARTING POINT IN DIRE TIMES.”
Tuesday, April 7, 2020 • 1:00 pm As her 90th birthday approaches, Dr. Ruth Westheimer reflects on her painful past. A survivor of the Holocaust, her career path leads her to the forefront of the sexual revolution, making her America’s most famous sex therapist.
2019 Critics’ Choice Documentary Award: Most Compelling Living Subject of a Documentary, Ruth Westheimer
Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life 582 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL
DEAR FREDY
Tuesday, May 19, 2020 • 1:00 pm
– Lauren Krouse Jewish Book Council
CHAIR: BETTE ZARET For information, call Brieana Duckett-Graves 941.552.6305 or bdgraves@jfedsrq.org
LEAD SPONSOR
For tickets, vist
jfedsrq.org/events SILVER SPONSOR
HANNAH AND NORMAN WEINBERG
LORI AND DAVID LINER
GOLD SPONSOR
BRONZE SPONSORS
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
MARSHA AND HARRY, Z’’L EISENBERG ANN AND ROBERT JACKSON STEVE R. KALT AND ROBERT D. HEREEN IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
Fredy Hirsch was born in Germany, a proud Jew and openly gay man. He was 19 years old when the Nuremberg Laws were published—he fled from Germany to the Czech Republic. When he arrived in Auschwitz, Fredy did not succumb to despair. This film combines interviews, archival materials and animation which tell the story of his amazing life.
Houston Film Critics Society Award Grand Jury Prize, Houston International LGBTQ Film Festival
Selby Library
1331 1st St, Sarasota, FL
LIMIT 2 TICKETS PER FILM. THE SERIES IS FREE but audience members are encouraged to bring cans of food which will be donated to All Faiths Food Bank.
CHAIR: ROSANN BLACK
For more information, contact Brieana Duckett-Graves at bdgraves@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6305. R: TO REGISTE
VISIT:
JFEDSRQ.ORG/ JFEDSRQ.ORG/JUSTREEL
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
February 2020
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12 Human Trafficking Awareness Program The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) will present a program on Human Trafficking Awareness at 4:00 p.m. Selby Public Library, 1331 1st St., Sarasota. The session will focus on a major initiative for NCJW’s Advocacy Program. There will be a display showing how teens and younger children are targeted for trafficking, and an oral presentation prior to the viewing of The Chosen. This will be followed by commentary and a Q&A session from Corporal Alan Wilkett of the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office. There is no charge for this event. NCJW has done Human Trafficking Awareness presentations throughout the area for organizations such as Girl Scouts of Coastal Florida, Camp Mariposa, Braden River Public Library, Kiwanis and Temple Sinai. If your organization is interested in scheduling a presentation or if you have questions about this event, contact Rhoda Friedman at rhokayak@aol.com or Ilene Gelber at igelber@verizon.com.
International Film Festival Join the Temple Beth El (TBE) family for a screening of the comedy, Tel Aviv on Fire. Salem, an inexperienced young Palestinian man, becomes a writer on a popular soap opera after a chance meeting with an Israeli soldier. His creative career is on the rise until the soldier and the show’s financial backers disagree about how the show should end, and Salam is caught in the middle. Along with this wonderful movie, Chef Rabbi Sternfield will fill our stomachs with a wonderful Israeli meal. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. at Temple Beth El Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch, 5150 Peridia Blvd., Bradenton. Cost: $13 for TBE members and $17 for guests. Prepaid reservations by Friday, February 7 are a must. There will be a $5 up-charge at the door for those who have not registered. For reservations and payment, please call the temple office at 941.755.4900.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13
Do you play???
People of the Book: Ariel Burger Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Ariel Burger first met Holocaust survivor and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Elie Wiesel at age 15. They studied and taught together. Burger’s book, Witness: Lessons from Elie Wiesel’s Classroom, chronicles the intimate conversations between these two men over the decades. Join us at 7:00 p.m. in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. To purchase tickets ($18), go to www.jfedsrq.org/books or call 888.718.4253, Option 1.
“Rabbi to the Queen: Building Bridges Across Interfaith Boundaries”
Friendly
Temple Emanu-El’s Adult Education Committee proudly welcomes Rabbi BUT Mark Winer, who was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), which includes knighthood, by Queen Elizabeth II, on December 13, 2013. He received this honor for promoting interfaith dialog and social cohesion in London and the United Kingdom. Rabbi Winer will discuss building community and interfaith relations among Muslims, Christians and Jews during his tenure as Senior Rabbi of West London Synagogue. The event begins at 10:30 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. This program is free for Temple Emanu-El members, with a $10 donation requested for guests. For more information, call the temple office at 941.371.2788.
Perlman Music Program Hosted by Temple Sinai Enjoy a Perlman Music Program performance at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). This special evening of music is not part of the Winter Residency Perlman Music Program, but will offer wonderful musical entertainment. Tickets will be sold through the Perlman Music Program. For more information, contact the temple office at 941.924.1802 or office@sinaisrq.org.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14 “Moses Elias Levy: Where Jewish History and Black History Meet” Jewish-American pioneer Moses Elias Levy was the founder in the 1820s of Pilgrimage Plantation, two miles north of Micanopy, as a refuge for persecuted European Jews. As a child in Morocco, Levy reviled slavery he saw there of black Africans and white Christians, and he later became the first Jewish abolitionist, publishing A Plan for the Abolition of Slavery in 1828. Levy’s vision of freedom for Jews and American slaves remains his extraordinary legacy as a Renaissance man. Join us for this discussion at 10:00 a.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per student; healthy kosher refreshments included. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.
Scholar-in-Residence Weekend Congregation Kol HaNeshama’s Scholar-in-Residence Weekend, featuring Dr. Elliot Lefkovitz of the renowned Spertus Institute in Chicago, will get underway with a wine and cheese reception at 5:00 p.m. Starting at 5:25 p.m., Dr. Lefkovitz will speak on Christian anti-Judaism, anti-Semitism and related conspiracy theory. Services will begin at 6:00 p.m. During Saturday services starting at 10:00 a.m., Dr. Lefkovitz will contrast current anti-Semitism to that of the 1930s. A dairy potluck lunch will follow. His third talk will be after Havdalah. Join us for any or all activities at Southgate Community Center, 3145 Southgate Circle, Sarasota. For more information, please call Stanley Yudin at 941.244.2042 or email office@ congkh.org.
Thursdays / 12pm to 4ish
Seasoned
5 pie
$
The Larry & Mary Greenspon FaMiLy CaMpus For Jewish LiFee The Jewish FederaTion oF sarasoTa ManaTee
Please contact
Marilyn Oslander
941.951.2029
marasota @yahoo.com
8B
February 2020
Big moments DESERVE BIG MAZELS
JEWISH HAPPENINGS SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Jewish Food Festival at JCV Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Stop by between 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to savor the goodies at the Jewish Food Festival at the Jewish Congregation of Venice (JCV), 600 North Auburn Road. In addition to Jewish delicacies prepared by the bakers at JCV, the festival features corned beef and pastrami sandwiches, stuffed cabbage, knishes, kugel, chicken and matzah ball soups, brisket platters and lots more. New this year is a booth selling wine and beer. The festival also features a flea market, book and jewelry sales, entertainment, vendor booths and raffle sales. Admission and parking are free, and there is a free shuttle bus from the Achieva Credit Union at 1485 East Venice Ave. For more information, call 941.484.2022 weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Temple Emanu-El’s “Sunday at the Movies” Temple Emanu-El’s popular “Sunday at the Movies” series presents The Last Suit – the story of an elderly Holocaust survivor who resists his children’s attempts to settle him into a nursing home and instead plots a solo trip to Poland to meet up with the Christian rescuer who saved his life during World War II. “Comedic and poignant in equal measure,” this film festival winner boasts a klezmer-driven score and a host of memorable characters. The screening begins at 2:00 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Tickets are $5. For more information, email Howard Kilman at howardkilman@hotmail.com.
An Evening with Batsheva Commemorate life’s big moments with a Federation Tribute!
jfedsrq.org/tribute Call Paula at PaulaOr Or visit jfedsrq.org/tribute Call atvisit to donate 941.552.6304 941.552.6304 to donate
Batsheva is a Jewish folksinger and songwriter known for her work in Yiddish, Ladino and Hebrew. Last year she appeared in sold-out concerts in London and Tel Aviv. She has performed for Michael Oren, former U.S. Ambassador to Israel, and Israeli author Ariel Shavit. Batsheva holds the only authorized versions of two Leonard Cohen songs in Yiddish and Hebrew. This program is sponsored by Judge Judith and Doron Barzilay as part of the Arthur and Hilda Morgenstern Concert Series. The event begins at 4:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Tickets are $10. For more information, contact Kelly Nester at 941.955.8121 or info@templebethsholomfl.org.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17 “Jewish Resistance in the Holocaust”
THINKING OF SELLING OR TRADING
THAT CAR, BOAT, OR RV? • Our online form makes it easy. • Support a worthwhile cause. • Receive tax benefits.
Sobibor, Poland, was an infamous Nazi death camp, where deported Jews were immediately killed upon arrival. About 600 Jews were kept alive to help administer the camp. In November 1943, these Jews executed a daring plan in which they killed most of the SS commanders and then stormed the barbed-wire fences and braved the minefields surrounding the camp, as 300 Jews escaped into the surrounding forest. The program includes film clips of this escape. Join us at 11:00 a.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per student; healthy kosher refreshments included. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Tastes of Sephardic Cooking Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Visit jfedsrq.org
Every woman matters here.
The Women’s Giving Circle [“Ma’agal Nashim”] is a giving circle that empowers women as funders, decision makers and agents of change. Each member contributes $518, and each has an equal voice in directing our funds. The giving circle model multiplies individual actions, creating a tremendous collective impact. In the last five years, we have distributed more than $236,632 in grants to nonprofits in Israel that help women and children of all backgrounds live safer, healthier and more meaningful lives.
Our Mission
To enhance the lives of Jewish women and children who are in need of help and live in Israel.
Contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org
Sarasota Sister Cities is sponsoring an opportunity to enjoy many tastes of contemporary Sephardic cooking, from appetizers and main dishes to sides and desserts. Join us from 5:30 to7:30 p.m. at the Sarasota Arts Center, located adjacent to the Municipal Auditorium on Tamiami Trail). The cost is $25. To make your reservation by Friday, February 7, contact Tel Mond Sister City Community Director Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz at jkatz@ jfcs-cares.org. The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is the sponsor organization for Sarasota Sister City’s Tel Mond, Israel, relationship.
Embracing Our Differences Tour and Luncheon ORT members and guests are invited to lunch at Marina Jack (2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota) at 11:30 a.m. and to hear the history of the Embracing Our Differences billboard art exhibition that has been produced every year since 2004 at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park. After lunch there will be a guided tour of this year’s exhibit by Alice Cotman, a member of the Steering Committee since its inception in 2003. Can’t make lunch? Then join us at Bayfront Park at 1:15 p.m. for the tour. Mail $5 (payable to ORT America) to Ethel Gross, 3919 Panola Lane, Sarasota, FL 34232. The $5 is a donation to ORT and will hold your reservation. Those going to lunch will pay for their meal at Marina Jack. There is no charge for the tour. Please contact Ethel Gross by Wednesday, February 12 at ebg7498@gmail.com or 941.388.7899.
Sarasota Jewish Singles Dinner Meeting The Sarasota Jewish Singles is an outreach program at Temple Beth Israel of Longboat Key to give all Jewish singles in the Sarasota-Manatee area the opportunity to meet other men and women who are single. The group meets once a month for dinner, laughter and a time to turn acquaintances into lifelong friends. Join us at 6:00 p.m. at Café Baci, 4001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. To make a reservation or for more information, call or text Rosalyn Fleischer at 941.915.6631 or email rozfleischer@gmail.com.
CTeen at Livingston’s Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Join CTeen for an exciting evening of fun at Livingston’s! Meet at 7:00 p.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. Cost: free for CTeen members and $18 for non-members. A CTeen annual membership is $180. CTeen 5780 is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 or rabbi@chabadofbradenton.com.
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
February 2020
9B
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19 NCJW General Meeting The National Council of Jewish Women’s General Meeting features awardwinning author DL Havlin. His talk, “The Loyal 14th Colony – Florida in the Revolutionary War,” will focus on the history of Florida. A PowerPoint presentation will cover the intrigue, chaos and violence in Florida during this period. The event will begin at noon on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life at 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota. Admission is free and refreshments will be served. Guests are welcome. To make a reservation (required) or for more information, contact Marion Marshak at marjmar7@aol.com or Roz Hopp at rhopp4@comcast.net.
MASTERWORKS 5
SOUNDS OF NOBILITY
February 21-23 Neel & Van Wezel
“How did American Women Act? Heroism on the Home Front”
SIMONE PORTER, violin
Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Women’s roles changed significantly in WWII America. Many were conscripted to join the war effort and wielded new power through jobs outside the home. But, their influence wasn’t limited to factory floors. Some women used their social and political positions to fight back against isolationism and sound the alarm about the plight of Europe’s Jews. Join us to explore the role of the everyday woman during this era, as well as the mindset and motivations of a few, including Lois Grunden, Edith Rogers and Eleanor Roosevelt. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. It is co-sponsored by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, Butterflies of Hope and Remembrance, and Temple Beth Sholom. There is no charge, but registration is required. To RSVP or for more information, contact Kelly Nester at 941.955.8121 or info@ templebethsholomfl.org.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Club Fed Hits the Road Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
St. Petersburg’s Imagine Museum’s collection presents major works of American and international art created by founding, leading, current and emerging artists working in the field of studio glass. Tickets to this road trip are $70 and include a private docent tour, lunch and transportation. The bus departs at 9:00 a.m. from The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota. To purchase tickets, go to jfedsrq.org/events. For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or at jlisitza@jfedsrq.org.
Idelson Library Film Matinee Series
guest conductor
BRAMWELL TOVEY
Principal Conductor, BBC Concert Orchestra
JOSHUA ROMAN, cello
Berlioz’s Rob Roy Overture, based on Sir Walter Scott’s novel, opens this program of high drama and heartfelt emotion led by world-renowned British conductor Bramwell Tovey. Violinist Simone Porter and cellist Joshua Roman, shine in one of the most rapturous Brahms’ concertos ever composed. Sir William Walton’s Symphony No. 1, long viewed as one of the greatest symphonies of the modern age, is an emotionally searing, melodic commentary on love lost. Tickets from $35
SarasotaOrchestra.org | 941-953-3434
Live and Become is the epic story of an Ethiopian boy who is airlifted from a Sudanese refugee camp to Israel in the mid-1980s during Operation Moses. Shlomo is plagued by two big secrets: he is neither a Jew nor an orphan, just an African boy who survived and wants, somehow, to fulfill his Ethiopian mother’s parting request that he “go, live and become.” The film is followed by a Q&A with Sandi Kligman. The Temple Beth Sholom Men’s Club will provide popcorn and refreshments. The event begins at 1:15 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Suggested donation: $3 for TBS members and $5 for non-members. For more information, please call Lex Calaguas at 941.955.8121 or email info@ templebethsholomfl.org.
Women’s Rosh Chodesh Society All women are invited to join Chabad of Sarasota’s Rosh Chodesh Society class entitled “Blending Celestial Spirit and Mundane Matters.” Learn the secret of a harmonious life, and find it within the Torah’s instruction. Not only is it a guide to a holy life, but within its instruction lies the key to achieving optimal success in a material sense as well. Gain insight into a different view of the Torah. Refreshments will be served. For assistance with underwriting this course, appreciation is extended to Anne Stein. All women are welcome at 7:00 p.m. at Chabad of Sarasota, 7700 Beneva Rd. Cost: free for Rebbetzin Circle, $10 for members, $12 for non-members. Anyone joining Chabad Women’s Rosh Chodesh Society class for the first time is our guest at no charge. For more information or to RSVP, contact Sara Steinmetz at 941.925.0770 or sara@chabadofsarasota.com.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21 “What’s New at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute” The Congregation for Humanistic Judaism, in coordination with its Shabbat service, welcomes Janna Overstreet, Director of Lifelong Learning, who will discuss plans for the new facility. The event begins at 7:30 p.m. at Unity, 3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota. Free and open to the public. Donations accepted. For more information, please call 941.929.7771 or email chjsarasota@hotmail.com.
TBS Goes North! Lakewood Ranch Shabbat Join Temple Beth Sholom for this informal service filled with singing followed by an Oneg (light refreshments after Friday evening Shabbat service). This service is a great way to meet your neighbors and other people in your area. Services will be led by Temple Beth Sholom members Cantor Neil Newman and Rabbi Anat Moskowitz. The service begins at 7:30 p.m. at The Windsor, 8220 Natures Way, Lakewood Ranch. For more information, please call Lex Calaguas at 941.955.8121 or email info@ templebethsholomfl.org.
Send your Jewish Happenings to jewishnews@jfedsrq.org
2020 Fri Feb 7 – Sun Mar 1 Tickets: $15 - $55 20% Off Opening Weekend Under the Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park behind the Mall at UTC. Now Air Conditioned!
CircusArts.org | 941.355.9805
10B
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
February 2020
Voices of the
HOLOCAUST
Holocaust, Genocide and Tolerance Education
Inspiring Speakers: GEORGE ERDSTEIN RIFK A GLATZ
EE
HELGA MELMED FR
DAVID MILBERG GINET TE HERSH
tee a-Mana Sarasot
INSIDE
WELCOME! ural Issue Inaug To the
H S JEWIS ALL THING e & More DISCOVER , Food, Cultur Synagogues LOCATIONSLocator ed Map
FIND THE Detail On the
org OMSRQ. SHAL
TION OF A PUBLICA
1,912 Sarasota-Manatee students learned about the Holocaust from survivors last year
#NEVERFORGET
Listening to your heart-wrenching story, I started to tear up. Your story of survival moved me and I will remember you for the rest of my life. –North Port high School StudeNt
History is not just about events, it is about human lives. Learn what “Never Forget” means, before it is too late. Invite a Holocaust survivor to your school, synagogue or library.
To book a speaker contact Anne Stein
Holocaust Speakers Bureau Coordinator • luvhula@gmail.com
jfedsrq.org 941.371.4546
UPCOMING
FREE JEWISH RESOURCE GUIDE!
Get a copy of our wildly popular publication, SHALOMSRQ. SHALOMSRQ is the ultimate resource guide to everything Jewish in Sarasota and Manatee counties! It covers everything a local resident, visitor or newcomer needs to know: • Synagogues & Temples
• Jewish Housing
• Jewish Clubs
• Jewish Youth & Teen Programs
• Jewish Cultural Arts
• Jewish Calendar
• Jewish Education
• Israel Connections
• Jewish Food
• History of Jews in Sarasota
• Jewish Gift Shops
• Maps with Drop-pin Locators
• Jewish Service Providers
AND MORE!
What better way to enjoy a Jewish Florida lifestyle than with a publication that will help make life easier!
To view SHALOMSRQ, go to
SHALOMSRQ.org
or get the FREE magazine mailed to you by contacting Paula Ivory-Bishop at 941.371.4546 x.0 or pibishop@jfedsrq.org SHALOMSRQ is published by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
EVENTS
Monday, January 29 – Tuesday, April 21 PEOPLE OF THE BOOK AUTHOR SERIES Tuesday, February 25, 2020
MAJOR GIFTS EVENT featuring Deborah Lipstadt Tuesday, February 25, 2020
COMMUNITY LECTURE featuring Deborah Lipstadt Wednesday, March 11 – Sunday, March 22
11TH ANNUAL JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL WOMEN’S PASSOVER CELEBRATION Sunday, April 26, 2020
YOM HA’ATZMAUT
jfedsrq.org/events
2020
Thursday, March 26, 2020
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
February 2020
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23 Temple Emanu-El Religious School Kindergarten Roundup Temple Emanu-El Religious School welcomes rising kindergarteners – and older children as well! – to learn about our wonderful, vibrant school community, where kids and families experience the joys of Jewish learning, Jewish community and Jewish life. Enjoy a Q&A session; meet our faculty; attend class with a new buddy; meet other Jewish and interfaith families who have found a home at Temple Emanu-El; and, of course, enjoy snacks. We look forward to greeting you from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For more information, contact the Temple Emanu-El Religious School at 941.378.5567 or teers@ sarasotatemple.org.
Suncoast Jewish Music Ensemble Concert Come to the Al Katz Center to hear the vibrant sounds and songs of the Suncoast Jewish Music Ensemble, composed of accomplished local musicians from Manatee/Sarasota, whose enthusiasm is very contagious and energizing. Join us for wonderful live Jewish music and delicious Jewish food. All ages are cordially invited to listen to and sing along with the Jewish songs that must be passed on to future generations through live community concerts. Join us at 3:00 p.m. at 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $12 per adult; $5 per student. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.
Celebrate Temple Beth Sholom – Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow This event welcomes those who have a multigenerational history at Temple Beth Sholom and who helped build the foundation which supports it today. You are invited to enjoy shared memories with humor and enthusiasm for the future and marvel at the “Did you know?” and “Do you know?” facts that define TBS. Plentiful hors d’oeuvres and desserts will be served. Join us at 3:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Cost $18; registration required. For more information or to RSVP, call Lex Calaguas at 941.955.8121 or email info@templebethsholomfl.org.
11B
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27 “This Month in Jewish History” Significant Jewish events in February include: the Inquisition was established in South America in 1569; in 1934, the first ship with Jewish immigrants broke the British blockade of Palestine; the Nazis provoked the first anti-Jewish riots in Amsterdam, Holland, in 1941, but the attackers were driven off by the Jews; born in Russia and later a British citizen, Chaim Weizmann, a tireless Zionist for decades, was elected first president of the newly-established State of Israel in 1949. Join us for this discussion at 11:00 a.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per student; healthy kosher refreshments included. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 29 PJ Library Strawberry Fields Tot Shabbat Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
PJ Library and Temple Emanu-El are partnering to present a special morning at 11:00 a.m. at Hunsader Farms (5500 County Road 675, Bradenton) to play, feed the animals, ride the train, and experience a fun tot Shabbat led by Rabbi Michael Shefrin. Bring a picnic lunch if you’d like. We’ll treat you to an ice cream dessert! This event is free, but space is limited and registration is required at jfedsrq.org/events. For more information, contact Rabbi Michael Shefrin at 941.371.2788.
Congregation Ner Tamid’s Annual Italian Dinner Rabbi Barbara Aiello returns from Italy to present a thought-provoking activity designed to bring Italians and Jews together, and to examine similarities that have existed and sometimes hidden for centuries. The event, which features Chef Teresa’s Italian cuisine, begins at 6:00 p.m. at Lakeside South Clubhouse, 3817 40th Ave. W, Bradenton. Cost: $21 per person. For more information or to RSVP (by Friday, February 21), contact Elaine at 941.755.1231 or emittler0909@gmail.com.
280 kosher characters
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24
twitter.com/jfedsrq
Federation Town Hall Meeting Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
Please join us at 6:00 p.m. in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life (582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota) to learn more about our campus renovation project and our recently published Jewish Community Study. Our Federation is expanding its campus in order to provide a wider range of services to our community and we are eager to share our plans with YOU! For more information, please contact Kim Mullins at kmullins@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6300. RSVP at jfedsrq.org/events.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Community Lecture featuring Deborah Lipstadt Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
I B L E R A a L YESHIVA t o s a r sa PRESENTS FEBRUARY – MARCH 2020 COURSES
JEWISH DNA, GENETIC DISEASE AND CRYPTO-JEWS MONDAYS 3:15 PM–4:30 PM Starting February 3 (Eight Weeks) The never-ending search for authenticity and proof of Jewish descent is in vogue today as evidenced by the large number of individuals who undergo DNA testing. Jewish genetic diseases are easily diagnosed (i.e., BRCA). Many oral family traditions portend Jewish ancestry as in the case of anusim (crypto-Jews). Through DNA discovery, many return to Judaism. Why… and does it matter? How important are Jewish roots and what does it suggest about the future. Join us in a review of DNA, Jewish genetic diseases and Jewish identity. Instructor: Marden Paru; $70.
PRESERVING JEWISH CULTURE
Join Federation for its annual Community Lecture featuring Professor Deborah Lipstadt as she provides insights about “Anti-Semitism Here and Now.” The event begins at 7:00 p.m. at Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail. Tickets are $18. Register at jfedsrq.org/events or call Brieana Duckett-Graves at 941.552.6305. For more information, please contact Jessi Sheslow, Director of Community Relations, at jsheslow@ jfedsrq.org.
What is it about Jewish culture we want preserved? Doomsday literature in recent years projects the demise of both Jews and Jewish culture. What role does Jewish literacy play in the preservation of the rich Jewish culture we inherited from our parents and grandparents? The question we’ll address is “what will become of Jewish culture” as the diaspora Jewish community continues to assimilate?
Lunch and Learn: Craft Day
JEWS, ANIMALS AND PETS
TUESDAYS 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM Starting February 4 (Eight Weeks)
Instructor: Marden Paru; fee $70.
Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood warmly invites you to a friendly and engaging afternoon of crafts. Bring a brown-bag lunch and learn to knit, crochet, quilt and needlepoint with old and new friends. Absolute beginners, master crafters and everyone in between is welcome. This free event begins at noon at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For more information, please call Barbara Peltz at 941.462.1196.
What has been the role and relationship between Jewish people and their animals? What responsibility do we have for the treatment of the various species? Scriptures has a lot to say about many living creatures: animals for sacrifice, food, clothing, farming, and even pets. The Talmud has much to say on this topic. What rules govern man’s relationship? What place do pets have in Jewish tradition?
Women’s Coffee & Casual Conversation
HISTORY OF JEWS IN GERMANY
All women are invited to join us at 1:00 p.m. at the Starbucks near The Landings. RSVP if you are new to town, or if you just want to meet up with a group of friendly women for some nice casual conversation. For more information or to RSVP, call the Chabad of Sarasota office at 941.925.0770 or email sara@chabadofsarasota.com.
FRIDAYS 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM Starting February 7 (Eight weeks)
Instructor: Marden Paru; fee $70.
TUESDAYS 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM Starting February 11 (Four Weeks) Cultural anthropologist David Levinson draws out the expanse of the Jewish experience in Germany from the fourth century CE to the present. The course relies on his recent book, Jewish Germany: An Enduring Presence from the Fourth to the Twenty-first Century and his ongoing research on Jewish German refugees. The course provides a layered appreciation of the Jewish experience and is meant for those interested in Jewish history, German Jewish history, and genealogists and family historians. Topics covered include: origins and spread of Ashkenazi Jewry, Jewish life in towns and cities, Emancipation, Reform Judaism, immigration to America, The Shoah, and Jewish Germany today. Lecturer: Dr. David Levinson; fee $40
Inquire about multi-course discounts. Scholarships are also available.
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Classes are held at The Jewish Federation on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. To register or seek more information, please contact Marden Paru, Dean and Rosh Yeshiva at 941.379.5655 or marden.paru@gmail.com. Please make checks payable to the Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva and mail to Marden Paru, 5445 Pamela Wood Way #160, Sarasota, FL 34233. NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS: The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and other school-administered programs. The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva is a 501(c)3 non-profit agency. It is funded, in part, by a grant from The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.
12B
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
February 2020
11 TH ANNUAL
P R E S E N T E D BY t h e M I L M A N - KOV E R fa m i ly
SPONSORED BY THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF SARASOTA-MANATEE
March 11 – 22, 2020 A
s we enter the festival’s second decade, we are especially proud to present a premiere line-up of 18 remarkable and diverse award-winning films. CO-CHAIRS
CHERYL SHAPIRO AND BUNNY SKIRBOLL
OPENING NIGHT
See you at the movies! n
Our Opening Night Screening will feature Fiddler: A Miracle of Miracles and a SPONSOR DINNER PARTY.
n
CENTERPIECE event
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Our Centerpiece Event will feature a screening of Golda’s Balcony, The Film. Dave Fishelson, Producer will lead a Q&A after the screening.
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CLOSING EVENT Our Closing Event will feature the ONLY SCREENING of Never Again is Now. Special guests are Evelyn Markus and Rosa Zeegers, who both star in the film.
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FEDERATION TORCH SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSOR
the Accountant of Auschwitz Crescendo Fiddler: A Miracle of Miracles Golda’s Balcony, the film The Keeper Leona Love in Suspenders Murer: Anatomy of a Trial Never Again is Now Papa The Passengers ProsEcuting Evil Rescue Bus 300 Shoelaces The Spy Behind Home Plate Unkept Secrets why the jews? working woman
EDIE AND DAVID CHAIFETZ LEON R. AND MARGARET M. ELLIN DEBBIE AND LARRY HASPEL ROSENTHAL ROOTS FAMILY FOUNDATION SYLVIA AND NORMAN SAMET BUNNY AND MORT SKIRBOLL HADASSAH AND MARTIN STROBEL LOIS STULBERG
OPENING NIGHT SPONSOR
CENTERPIECE EVENT SPONSOR
SHELLY AND SY GOLDBLATT
BUNNY AND MORT SKIRBOLL
CLOSING EVENT SPONSOR LOIS STULBERG
SILVER SPONSOR
BRONZE SPONSORS
COPPER SPONSORS
ANONYMOUS DR. LOUIS AND MRS. MILLY CHAYKIN LORI AND DAVID LINER CHERYL AND STEVE SHAPIRO
HOWARD BERMAN MILT CRYSTAL MARSHA AND HARRYZ’L EISENBERG ANN AND ROBERT JACKSON
MEDIA SPONSORS
NESSA AND RICH LEVINE HARRIET AND JULES SCHAEFFER LESLYE AND BARRY SEIDEL CHERI AND DAVID SPECTOR
To become a sponsor, contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org
For film descriptions and screening For tickets, call times, visit jfedsrq.org/jff20 888.718.4253, Option 1