Federation Star - April 2023

The Board of Directors and staff of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples wishes you a very

HAPPY PASSOVER! OF GREATER NAPLES

CELEBRATING JEWISH LIFE IN GREATER NAPLES, ISRAEL AND THE WORLD

FEDERATI N STAR

Published by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

SERVING NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND AND THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

www.JewishNaples.org  April 2023 – Nisan/Iyar 5783  Vol. 32 #8 INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Annual community campaign

11 Men’s Cultural Alliance

Jewish together builds our future

12 Women’s Cultural Alliance 13 Community Focus

Marcy Friedland

13 Tributes 18 Organizations

FRD Director

1A Jewish Interest 9A Israel & The Jewish World 11A Commentary

W

e held our annual end-of-year Power of Community Celebration brunch on March 12 at our new building. The Human Needs, Patricia J. Adkins Youth Leadership, Power of Community and Stand Up for Justice awards were presented.

We also celebrated where we are in our Annual Community Campaign as well as accomplishments for the year. continued on page 3

13A Synagogue News 15A Focus on Youth 19A Community Directory

Jeffrey Feld, JFGN President/CEO and Jan Schiff, JFGN Board Chair

Community-wide Yom HaShoah Everyone is invited to join us Monday, April 17 at 7 p.m. for the Community-wide Yom HaShoah program.

PAID

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples 4720 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34119

Fort Myers, FL Permit No 1101

Non Profit Org U.S. Postage

6

Schiff Hall at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

Israel Scouts Returning to Naples The Israel Scouts Caravan (Tzofim) is returning to Greater Naples for one performance this summer.

8

BUILT FOR LIVING BUILT FOR LIFE

LEARN MORE ON PAGE 5

www.KayeLifestyleHomes.com

I

239.434.KAYE

2

Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

April 2023

Thank you Jane Schiff Federation Board Chair

I

n 2013, my husband’s health was deteriorating and it was obvious that another winter in Atlanta (even though the winters are not severe) was not in his best interest, so we picked up and moved to Bonita Springs. We knew one couple. We also knew that they had a very established life here that would not include us, except occasionally. My husband was ill and limited in what activities he could handle; I was in perfect health. I don’t like the sun, I don’t play golf, I don’t play card games and I had no interest in working full time, but I have always been interested in Jewish communal life. I grew up knowing and being involved in Federation, synagogue life and many other Jewish organizations including NCJW, ORT, AJC, JCPA, JFNA and the Breman Museum (the Atlanta Holocaust Museum).

So, when we moved here, I wanted to use my talents and knowledge in the area I felt comfortable. And now, 10 years later, I am writing an article in the Federation Star to thank each and every one of you for welcoming me and allowing me to become a part of the history of the Jewish community of Naples.

Being board chair of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples truly fulfilled a

lifelong dream of making a difference in the Jewish community and its relationship to the greater community. If our Jewish community is strong and vibrant, we are able to openly and positively show that Jews enhance and enliven the greater community.

The Jewish community of Naples and its surrounding area is growing by leaps and bounds. In a few years, we will most likely do another demographic/needs assessment study and find out exactly how much growth has occurred. But, certainly, in numbers of WCA and MCA members, we know there is growth. And Naples is starting to attract a somewhat younger demographic since working from home has normalized after the pandemic.

In the years since I have been in this area, Federation has doubled its Annual Campaign. We are one of the few, if not the only, Federation in the national system that has been able to accomplish this feat. Why? Because of you. You moved here, you realized there are needs, and you joined us to take care of the needs of Jews in Naples and around the world.

The needs in our local community are growing, just as the community grows.

More students need help to afford a Jewish education; more Holocaust survivors move here; hurricanes cause needs; and the list goes on. You stepped up when we asked.

Other communities ask how we are increasing our campaign while so many communities are experiencing declining campaigns. The answer is: We are where

the community is growing and, as always, Jews step up to take care of other Jews.

That is what makes this work so rewarding and gives me such joy. I am so proud to be a part of this community at this time in its development.

The Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center was a six-year project. It was a dream, and it took an amazing team to make it a reality. I am and will remain extremely proud that I was a part of the team that brought it to life. From the foundation of the strategic plan and the demographic/needs assessment study to all the final details for the building, without each and every aspect and each and every person in all those committees — all the workers, all the staff of Federation and every company that had even a finger in the project — what we have would not have been.

I have heard over and over, from so many of you and almost every visitor, that the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center exceeds expectations. And, from my point of view, the only thing I wanted to achieve was a place where people would want to gather, feel comfortable and utilize.

Week four of being open saw about 1,000 people come through the doors. That is success! Every day the building is used by multiple groups for various activities.

That also is success! I come in and look at the board to see what is happening in the building that day, and my heart fills with pride. I feel I made a difference. When gentile friends and community members stop me to say how thrilled they are that we are here and they are using the building as well, I know the building was worth all the effort.

The best part of being board chair for me was meeting and working with so many of you. The shared vision, the exceptional work ethic and the camaraderie has made these years the best “work” experience of my life. While I am hesitant to start naming names, as I know I would forget so many, I must single out the close working relationship that I have had with Jeffrey Feld throughout the six years.

My favorite Jeffrey story is: One day, about six months ago, we finished a conversation, for which I have no recall about its content, and hung up. About 10 minutes later, the phone rang. It was Jeffrey. He immediately said, “Oops, I called the wrong wife, I didn’t need to talk to my work wife again.” We have worked hand in glove. He has been a wonderful partner in growing the Jewish community.

That was his goal when he moved here, and I was happy to sign on to that goal.

In conclusion (the two best words in any speech or article), I want to say that these six years have given me more than I gave to the organization. It has given me pride, a sense of belonging, great friends and a personal sense of accomplishment.

These have been interesting, challenging and rewarding years. I greatly appreciate the opportunity Jewish Federation of Greater Naples gave me.

I know Federation is in good hands with the new Board Chair, Nat Ritter, who is capable, smart, caring and has been super involved in getting the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center up and running.

I plan to continue to see if I can be helpful going forward as I do whatever I can to help Ritter and the new board move from strength to strength.

THIS MONTH’S ADVERTISERS This publication is brought to you each month thanks to the support of our advertisers. Please be sure to use their products and services, and mention that you saw their ad in Federation Star.

AFMDA..................................9 Kaye Lifestyle Homes.....................5 Anago Cleaning Systems.................6 Kotler Law Firm, P.L......................12A Beth Tikvah............................18 & 9A MCA.................................11 & 8A Carlisle Naples, The.........................13 Moorings Park...............................7 Casual Connection.........................10 Naples Community Orchestra.........2A Chellie Doepke, Premiere Plus Realty..10A Naples Envelope & Printing Co....15A Deborah Zvibleman, John R. Wood....6 Naples Jewish Congregation..........6A Focus Floral..................................10A Publix...................................20A Fuller Funeral Home......................8 Senior Housing Solutions...............19 Ginsberg Eye.............................13A Siena Lakes.....................................17 Henderson, Franklin.........................15 Temple Shalom................................2A Hodges Funeral Home....................9A TheatreZone................................1A Holocaust Museum..........................14 Truly Nolen.................................20 JCMI......................................4A WCA........................................3A James Knafo Architect & Builder.....2 Wollman, Gehrke & Assoc.....19 & 11A Katz New York Deli...........................4A Wynn’s Market..............................10

JEWISH FEDERATION

April 2023

Federation Star

3

annual community campaign...continued from page 1 Even though our Power of Community Celebration is in March, our actual fiscal year is from July 1 through June 30.

With that in mind, we still have work to accomplish in raising the Annual Community Campaign dollars needed.

This year’s goal is $1.6 million, and we have two months left, with your help and donations, to reach it.

Our Passover appeal letter with pledge cards were mailed out and you should have received yours by March 29. Please fill it

out and return it to us before June 30. Our volunteer solicitors have been busy making calls to ask for your annual gift or pledge and to thank donors who have already given.

As another wonderful season is drawing to a close, don’t forget to make your

annual gift or pledge to Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. We thank you for your continued support and will be busy working on next year’s exciting programming and events!

Stand Up for Justice Award Winners

Camiria Jones, Ph.D.

Brandy Williams

Pamela Schram

Susan Bobrow

(Not pictured is Jamie Flatley)

JFGN’s Jeffrey Feld with Patricia J. Adkins Youth Leadership Award Winners Rett Kelley and Hailey Hinchliffe. (Not pictured is Jacob Samuel)

Human Needs Award winners

Alyssa Haney from Sage House

Yadit Munoz and Dolores Siok from Café of Life

Power of Community Award Winner Irv Povlow

Beth Povlow, Human Needs Committee Chair

Ken Goldstein, Human Needs Committee member

Liz Jaffe, Stand Up for Justice Committee Chair

4

Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

April 2023

Annual Meeting and Election of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Board Members and Officers

By The JFGN Nominating Committee

T

he Annual Meeting of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples will be held on Monday, April 10, beginning at 7 p.m. in the Schiff Social Hall at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. At that time, the election of board members and officers of the Federation will be conducted.

The nominating committee, chaired

by Alvin Becker, met and is recommending the following slate.

Board members who will be completing a second year of a two-year term include Paula Filler, Cheryl Ginsburg, Larry Israelite, Tammy Katz, Elliot Lerner, Merlin Lickhalter, Robin Mintz, Joel Pittelman, Stuart Price, Nat Ritter, Michael Rubinstein, Marc Saperstein and Jeff Zalasky.

Board Members being nominated for a two-year term to be completed in 2025 include Frank Baum, Alvin Becker, Myra Benedict, Rosalee Bogo, Harvey Cohen, Marcia Cohodes, Steve Iser, Jane Schiff, Arlene Sobol, Steve Strome, Jay Weiss and Beth Wolff.

The nominating committee also recommends the following people be elected as officers for a one-year term: Board Chair – Nat Ritter

Vice Chairs – Marc Saperstein, Arlene Sobol and Beth Wolff Secretary – Rosalee Bogo Treasurer – Steve Strome Immediate Past Chair – Jane Schiff The nominating committee includes Alvin Becker, chair; Amanda Dorio, vice chair; Larry Israelite; Robin Mintz; Nat Ritter; Marc Saperstein; Jane Schiff; and Jeffrey Feld.

JOIN US

JFGN Annual Meeting and Election of Board Members and Officers When: Monday, April 10, beginning at 7 p.m.

Where: Schiff Social Hall at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center Please plan to attend!

CELEBRATING JEWISH LIFE IN GREATER NAPLES, ISRAEL AND THE WORLD

FEDERATI N STAR

Published by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

SERVING NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND AND THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

Published by

4720 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34119 Phone: 239.263.4205 Fax: 239.263.3813 www.jewishnaples.org Email: info@jewishnaples.org Officers

Board Chair: Jane Schiff Vice Chairs: Nat Ritter, Marc Saperstein, Beth Wolff Secretary: Rosalee Bogo Treasurer: Elliot Lerner Immediate Past Chair: Alvin Becker

Board of Directors

Frank Baum, Patti Boochever, Harvey Cohen, Marcia Cohodes, Amanda Dorio, Paula Filler, Cheryl Ginsburg, Larry Israelite, Tammy Katz, Merlin Lickhalter, Robin Mintz, Joel Pittelman, Stuart Price, Michael Rubenstein, Michael Sobol, Steve Strome, Jay Weiss, Jeff Zalasky, Board Member Emeritus: Phyllis Seaman

Past Board Chairs

Welcome guests to our new center with a brick paver

By Marcy Friedland, Financial Resource Development Director

W

ould you like to add your name to a brick paver as a welcome to guests visiting our new Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center?

Contact me at mfriedland@jewishnaples. org or 239-263-4205.

BRICK PAVER ORDER FORM Donor Information Name ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________________________________________________________ City ________________________________________________ State _________________ Zip Code __________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Donation Amount (S) ______________________________________________________________________________________ Make your check payable to JFGN and send it, with this completed form, to: JFGN, 4720 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL 34119.

Indicate how you want your engraved brick to read, using the grid below for the size brick you are purchasing. Each square is the space for one letter or number. Each row counts as one line of text, only use the amount of lines specified below for your brick.

12” x 12” Engraved Brick - room for 8 lines of text with 20 characters per line ($1,800) 8” x 8” Engraved Brick - room for 6 lines of text with 20 characters per line ($720) 4” x 8” Engraved Brick - room for 3 lines of text with 20 characters per line ($360)

Gerald Flagel, Dr. William Ettinger, Ann Jacobson (z”l), Sheldon Starman, Bobbie Katz, Rosalee Bogo, Judge Norman Krivosha (z”l)

Synagogue Representatives

Stan Alliker, Cantor Donna Azu, Rabbi Ariel Boxman, Steve Chizzik, Rabbi Ammos Chorny, Rabbi Mendel Gordon, Rabbi Mendy Greenberg, Rabbi Mark Gross, Rabbi Howard Herman, Rabbi Adam Miller, Charles Flum, Rabbi James Perman, Dr. Arthur Seigel, Len Teitelbaum, Rabbi Fishel Zaklos

Staff

Jeffrey Feld: Federation President & CEO Eduardo Avila: Campaign Associate Reneé Bialek: Program Director Michelle Cunningham: Receptionist Courtney DeVault: Accounting Manager Alicia Feldman: PJ Library Coordinator Marcy Friedland: Financial Resource Development Director Janine Hudak: Admin. Coordinator Phil Zoltek: Facility Manager

Federation is the central Jewish community-building organization for Greater Naples, providing a social service network that helps Jewish people locally, in Israel and around the world.

As the central fundraising organization for Jewish communal life in our area, strength is drawn from organized committees of dedicated volunteers.

Programs include: • Annual Community Campaign • Celebrate Israel • Educational & Cultural Programs • Israel Advocacy Committee • Israel Scouts • Jewish Book Festival • Jewish Community Relations Council • Jewish Young Professionals • Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance • Men’s Cultural Alliance • PJ Library • Publication of the Federation Star, Connections and Community Directory • Singles Social Group • Women’s Cultural Alliance • Women’s Philanthropy • Youth Activities Committee – sponsoring youth education and scholarships for Jewish Summer Camp and Israel Experience

JEWISH FEDERATION

April 2023

Federation Star

5

Women’s philanthropy luncheon

By Rosalee Bogo, Chair, Women’s Philanthropy

J

ewish Federation of Greater Naples’ Women of Philanthropy was on full exhibit at the luncheon gathering in the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center on Feb. 22. The women celebrated the fact that that they make such a difference in Federation’s Annual Community Campaign. These women engage in the fulfilling work of making the world a better place by making donations and contributing hands-on community service. These women are building and supporting Jewish life for today and for generations to come.

Our Pomegranates, who are our donors of $1,800 and above, and our Lions of Judah, who are donors of $5,000 and above, were recognized. In our community, we have 64 Pomegranates and 83 Lions of Judah. Peggy Brown is the chair of the Pomegranates, and Estelle Price and Gail Smith are Lion of Judah chairs. I am the chair of the Women of Philanthropy.

The Greater Naples area suffered much damage from Hurricane Ian. The community came together and donated funds to help those who suffered severe damage. At that time, much of the money was given to Baker Senior Center Naples to help those in need. Federation Board Chair Jane Schiff introduced Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, president/CEO of Baker Senior Center Naples, as guest speaker at the luncheon. Dr. Faffer described how the money was spent to help seniors and

Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, Baker Senior Center Naples President, CEO others. Money from our Annual Community Campaign is allocated each year to Baker Senior Center Naples for specific programing and to help the Holocaust survivors in our community. Closing remarks were given by JFGN President/ CEO Jeffrey Feld.

Later in the season, these dynamic women will come together again for their annual Community Service Project, working together to improve the lives of others while enriching their own lives through philanthropy.

Peggy Brown, Pomegranate Society Chair

Gale Smith and Estelle Price, Lions of Judah Chairs

Rosalee Bogo, Women’s Philanthropy Chair, and Jane Perman

BUILT FOR LIVING, BUILT FOR LIFE

CUSTOM HOMES NEW CONSTRUCTION HIGH-PERFORMANCE SOLAR HOMES

KayeLifestyleHomes.com

239.434.KAYE

PRICES, PLANS, ARCHITECTURAL INTERPRETATIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. THESE DRAWINGS ARE CONCEPTUAL ONLY AND ARE FOR THE CONVENIENCE OF REFERENCE. THEY SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON AS REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, OF THE FINAL DETAIL OF UNITS, BUILDINGS, PROJECTS, LAND, ETC.

6

Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

April 2023

Federation events

Israel Friendship Caravan

The Israel Friendship Caravan is coming to Naples on June 20. The 10 Israeli teens will be performing at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center at 7 p.m. Registration for this free program will be available soon.

Would you like to host one or two teens? If so, please email me at rbialek@ jewishnaples.org.

who turned out to celebrate with us at the Celebrate Israel @ 75 event! Please thank our Friends of Israel listed in this issue.

Thank you to Harvey Cohen and Myra Benedikt, co-chairs of the Israel Advocacy Committee, along with the chairs of the event, Tracy and Michael Askotzky and Cathy and Phil Zacks.

Thank you to the Jewish Book Festival sponsors and patrons for your support.

And a huge thank you to Gayle Dorio, who has chaired the JBF for the last two years.

Next month, a few of us will attend the Jewish Book Council conference and start to plan next season’s Jewish Book Festival.

Please visit www.jewishbookfestival.org as we update the page with information.

Gratitude and thanks

Registration

“REMEMBER: The Story of Abe Price”

by Jeffrey Binder. This immersive, challenging and captivating story of resilience brings us into one man’s memories and asks us to never forget. Seats are limited, so please register for this free program at www.jewishnaples.org.

Reneé Bialek Program Director

J

oin us for any and all of these events.

Community-wide Yom HaShoah

Everyone is invited to join us Monday, April 17 at 7 p.m. for the Communitywide Yom HaShoah program. Rabbis and other clergy will participate in a brief service, along with Holocaust survivors and GenShoah members who will light candles and read some passages. This service will be followed by Gulfshore Playhouse’s

Thank you to our wonderful community

Please register for all events at

www.jewishnaples.org. Dates and times of upcoming events are announced on our website homepage. If you aren’t receiving our weekly Monday e-blast, please email me at rbialek@jewishnaples.org. Registration is required to receive Zoom links, which are emailed two hours prior to the start of each event.

We have a variety of groups and committees at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, such as PJ Library, Jewish Families with Young Children, Singles Social Group, Cardozo Legal Society, CatholicJewish Dialogue, Israel Advocacy Committee and Jewish Community Relations Council. Please join the group and/or committee that best fits your interests.

A taste of each one can be found on our website at www.jewishnaples.org.

Weight loss starts with what you put in your mind, not your mouth

By Diane Lynn, Certified Weight Loss Coach

H

ave you ever thought about your thoughts? We each have about 60,000 thoughts per day and were never taught to manage them. They just run through our brains like unsupervised toddlers running with scissors!

But our thoughts shape our lives. What you believe about what’s possible will likely become true. If you believe you will

graduate college and become successful in business, you’ll likely do those things. But if you don’t think you’ll finish college or succeed in business, that’s also likely to become true for you.

We should have been taught in childhood that we are not our thoughts or our brains, we are the managers of our thoughts and brains. And that’s actually

WE CLEAN THEM ALL®

With over 30 years in the commercial cleaning franchising industry, Anago has helped pioneer this sector by developing standards and practices that others replicate.

Our franchisees provide Scheduled Cleaning, Carpet Cleaning, Ceramic, Tile and Grout Cleaning, Day Porters, Emergency Cleanup, Exposed Surfaces Disinfection, Hard Surface Floor Care, Restrooms, Special Event Cleanup, Spring Cleaning, Window Washing and much more.

239-206-2520 anagoswfl.com

good news, because it means we’re in control, not anyone else! If you have thoughts like “I have to eat everything on my plate” or “It’s not polite to refuse when someone offers food,” those thoughts will lead you to eat more. It would be better to think things like “I can save that for later” or “My friend won’t mind if I don’t eat her dessert.”

It's possible to change unhelpful thoughts to helpful ones via brain training. I learned how and it was life changing! I lost 65 lbs. and became a weight loss coach so I could help others like me who have been struggling for years. Now I’m teaching classes to show you how to do it, too. Check out the class description on the JFGN website and register for our new series starting on Tuesday, April 4 at 4 p.m. (EST).

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples is sponsoring these classes and a portion of the $297 per person tuition will benefit them. Six consecutive classes meet online via Zoom once a week for an hour. If you need to miss a class, arrangements can be made for you to watch a recording.

Register at www.jewishnaples.org.

You deserve the care of a Real Estate Specialist.

WHY ANAGO IS THE SUPERIOR CHOICE FOR COMMERCIAL CLEANING!®

DZ

DEBORAH ZVIBLEMAN

• Ranked #1 in Janitorial • Available 24/7 • Two-Hour Response Guarantee • Competitive Pricing • Total Satisfaction Guarantee • Consistent & Dependable • Fully Insured and Bonded • Green Cleaning Experts

WITH ANAGO YOU GET:

• A partner with a 98% retention rate • Calendaring system ensures all tasks are completed as scheduled • Inspection/survey process ensures compliance to your specs • Microfiber tools to remove more dirt • EPA registered disinfectants for virus and bacteria removal • Dedicated client services rep to assist with your needs

SERVING COLLIER, LEE, CHARLOTTE, SARASOTA AND MANATEE COUNTIES Past President of Temple Shalom and Federation Member since 1998.

10% of my net commission will be donated to Jewish Federation of Greater Naples in your honor.

YOUR CLEANING NINJAS

Our efficient and stealthy cleaning franchisees get the job done without any disruption to the flow of your business.

A VISIBLE DIFFERENCE

Our franchise owners use systematic methods to create a visible difference in the cleanliness of your workspace.

BEST SERVICE AND PRICE

One of our primary goals is to provide clients with the absolute best service in the industry, at a competitive price.

CONSISTENT RESULTS

By paying attention to the details, clients get an exceptional and consistent clean every time.

Deborah Zvibleman, PA

ABR, AHWD, CIPS, CLHMS, PMN, RSPS, SRES, SFR,TRC

DZvibleman@johnrwood.com

239.272.8878 DebbieSellsYourHome4You.com

REALTOR® | PA

April 2023

Discover the good life

Federation Star

You are invited to a delicious Lunch & Learn at DeRomo’s From brilliantly designed residences with spectacular lake and golf course views to integrated wellness programs with concierge physician services and personalized healthcare that’s included, it’s easy to see why your neighbors are moving to Moorings Park Grande Lake. Southwest Florida’s newest - and hottest selling - Life Plan Community awaits the fortunate few who will live here.

RSVP today by calling 239-842-2558,

visiting MooringsPark.org/Events, or scanning the QR code.

BONITA SPRINGS LUNCH & LEARN

Thursday | May 4th | 11:30 AM DeRomo’s Restaurant | 26811 S. Bay Drive | Bonita Springs RSVP by May 2nd by calling 239-842-2558 | Scan the QR code

Entrance fees from $1.2 million and 70% refundable 7410 Little Lane, Naples | 239-842-2558 | MooringsParkGL.org

P040123

#88033

Moorings Park Communities is a nationally accredited, non-profit, Medicare-certified organization and one of the only Life Plan providers with A or A+ ratings by Fitch and S&P Global Ratings.

7

8

Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

April 2023

Friends of Celebrate Israel

A

s of March 4, 2023, the following individuals have donated $75 to support the community-wide Celebrate Israel @ 75 event commemorating Israel’s 75th anniversary. You can still join this esteemed group by going to https://jfgn.regfox.com/friends-celebrateisrael-at-75 to become s friend as well.

Jack Abel Dov Almog Abby Askotzky Tracy & Michael Askotzky Marsha Auslander Frank Baum Stacey Baum Myra & Bill Benedikt Rosalee & Jerry Bogo Stuart Brown Danielle Ciccoli Katie & Harvey Cohen Sandra Diamond Steven Einhorn Richard Endlar Sally Ann Endleman Lisa Freund Sid Freund Genine Fidler Josh Fidler

Paula Filler Ron Filler Barbara Gage Pat & Bob Gage Fran & Rich Goldberg Gene Goldenziel Mel Goldfine Susie Goldsmith Glenda & Kenneth Gordon Helene & Alan Gordon Jill Gordon Monica & Allan Goodwin Sherry & Howard Greenfield Michael Gurtman Myra Hackel Robin Hendricksen Carol & Burton Hirsch Stephen Iser Rolly Jacob Andy Karpman Bobbie & Gene Katz Emery Koenig Pam Krangel Dr. Jerry Kumin Arlene Levin Colin Lewis Harriet & Merlin Lickhalter Lois Lourie Bob Lubin

Leda Lubin Ida & Jeff Margolis Susan & Joel Pittelman Steve Podolsky Rochelle Pollens Jack Rabin Nat Ritter Susan Ritter Andrea Roisman Linda & Allen Saeks Joan & Marc Saperstein Jane Schiff

Shelley & Mark Schloss Jim Simon Michael Sobol Leslie & Mel Springman Joyce Steckman Bob Werner Goldie Wetcher Allen & Sharon White Nancy Wiadro Cathy & Philip Zacks Michael Zeman

Israel Scouts return to Naples

By Jeff Margolis

T

he Israel Scouts Caravan (Tzofim) will return to Greater Naples for one performance on Tuesday, June 20 at 7 p.m. The program will take place at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center on Pine Ridge Road in Naples.

The Israel Scout Friendship Caravan has been bringing its high-energy friendship and excitement for over 40 years. The very first Caravan to the U.S. was in 1973, when inspirational songs and stories in a spirit of friendship from the people of Israel were brought to the people of the United States. Audiences in the Naples area have enjoyed their high-spirited programs for years.

The Tzofim Caravan is comprised of a group of five boys and five girls and their two leaders. They are chosen to become part of the troop based on their maturity, fluency in English and talent. Members must go through several competitive auditions as well as personal interviews.

For more information and reservations, please contact Reneé Bialek at rbialek@jewishnaples.org.

Volunteers are needed to serve as host families for the Scouts' Naples visit.

If interested, please contact Bialek for details. This event is free and open to the entire community.

We need a few host families!

By Reneé Bialek, Program Director

T

he Israel Scout Friendship Caravan is coming to Naples in June!

This Caravan consists of two leaders and 10 Israeli teens who will perform by singing and dancing for our community.

The Scouts will arrive Tuesday, June 20 and leave Naples Wednesday, June 21.

SERVING THE JEWISH COMMUNITY SINCE 1996 Fuller Cremation Center 5325 Jaeger Road Naples, Florida 34109

Fuller Funeral Home 1625 Pine Ridge Road Naples, Florida 34109

239.592.1611 wecare@fullernaples.com

www.FullerNaples.com

Hosting the Scouts

The hosting experience is often the most exciting and meaningful part of the Caravan’s visit. The hosting relationship goes far beyond providing food and a bed —host families become true surrogate families to the Scouts during their stay.

Families love bringing the Caravan into their homes, getting to know the teens

and learning more about Israel. It is a valuable and unforgettable experience.

Your responsibilities include meals and sleeping arrangements on Tuesday, June 20 and transportation to and from the events.

If you have youngsters or teens at home, this would be a real treat for them. If you don’t have youngsters or teens at home, this would be a real treat for you!

If you are interested in hosting one or more of the Scouts or team leaders, contact Reneé Bialek ASAP at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, 239-2634205 or rbialek@jewishnaples.org for more information.

Please go to https://jewishnaples.org/ israel-scouts for more information.

JEWISH FEDERATION

Federation Star

April 2023

9

“More after the break”

By Gayle Dorio, Jewish Book Festival Chair

O

ne of our last authors, Jen Maxfield, aptly uses the phrase “more after the break” as the title of her book. She was a reporter and stories always continued after the break.

So, too, does the Jewish Book Festival of Greater Naples! We presented 16 authors this past season at 14 events. Now, we have a short break before the next season.

I hope you have enjoyed this season.

It has been a privilege to be the volunteer chair of the Jewish Book Festival for the past two seasons. I appreciate the opportunity to create events to entertain and engage you, and make you feel the beauty of this community. I have often said it is a labor of love being on the JBF committee, certainly working as the volunteer chair. Now, as with “more after the break,” it is time for me to step aside.

I want to offer my most sincere thanks to everyone who has been part of this.

At each Book Festival event, I offer thanks for the support and assistance provided by so many people and organizations. This article is about gratitude! Thank you! Sincerest thanks for everything!

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, now at its brand-new home – the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center – has opened its doors to everyone. Instead of every organization searching for venues, we can all come together there! Federation began the Jewish Book Festival eight years ago. I don’t know how long the other entities began but imagine all that Federation offers:

at every event and in the Federation Star.

The committee helped finalize the recommendations of the “Author Review Team” (Emily Berkowitz, Reneé Bialek, Jan Goldman, Carol Hirsch and me). Several members renewed sponsors and solicited new ones. The Preview Event, under the direction of Iris Shur and Steve Yussen, started the season off with a bang. Carole Greene has written excellent book reviews published in the Federation Star for many years. And to the committee members who always volunteer to help greet, sign in, usher and provide support, you are all so greatly appreciated!

Thank you to the 209 patrons, whose financial support and enthusiasm for Book Festival events make the Book Festival possible. So many patrons continue year after year. You truly are the foundation we need.

Thank you to the 24 sponsors, including many long-time sponsors as well as a first-time sponsor. We know that even though circumstances are sometimes difficult, you continue your support.

We are extremely grateful as we cannot continue without you.

Thank you to the hard working “Author Champions:” Emily Berkowitz, Irene Pomerantz, Spencer Forman, Ida and Jeff Margolis, Iris Shur, Carol Hirsch, Lenore Greenstein, Susan Pittelman, Linda Simon, Ronna Hain, Leslie Wasserman, Dina Shein, Nancy Wiadro, Steve Yussen and Phyllis Strome, who introduced the authors and moderated the Q&As. Some provided transportation and overall care for those authors who appeared in person.

Thank you to Federation representatives who welcomed the community at the beginning of each event: Board Chair Jane Schiff and President/CEO Jeffrey Feld.

Thank you to Larry Israelite for continuing to help with computer issues and registrations.

Thank you to Jake Tavill and staff at Indigo Soul Entertainment for making sure each panelist was clearly heard and had proper lighting as well as handling the music and PowerPoint presentations before and after each event.

Thank you to Carole Greene for writing numerous thoughtful, engaging book reviews to whet the appetite of the community and encourage them to attend events.

Thank you to Federation Star editor Sharon Hood and her team for designing Book Festival articles, ads and bookmarks; for giving the events prominent placement; allowing long articles; repeating the Book Festival sponsors and patrons so many times; for the beautiful separate handouts; and for patience, talent and kindness, always.

Thank you to the Jewish Book Council that offers 250 talented authors for our selection. The JBC facilitates author selections (many times requiring several iterations), schedules dates and

Goodbye from Gayle Dorio and Gloriana the Great! times, and provides guidance regarding arrangements for author travel.

And most especially, thank you to the one and only Reneé Bialek, often referred to as “Superwoman!” Without her, nothing happens. She communicates with JBC, submits all the paperwork, manages all the travel arrangements, sends emails, prepares PowerPoint presentations, handles the questions, reservations and does everything you can think of,

all with a smile on her face and a gracious friendliness that makes you know all the details have been handled. In the new building, she is also called upon to handle microphones and technical issues. I can’t thank her enough! (It’s also exhausting just thinking about everything she does!)

Thank you so much!

Why is this EMS organization different than all other EMS organizations?

2022-23 • The groups – Catholic-Jewish Dialogue, Israel Advocacy Committee, Jewish Community Relations Council, Jewish War Veterans, JRCA-Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance, JYP-Jewish Young Professionals of Greater Naples, MCA, PJ Library, Singles Social Group, WCA and Women’s Philanthropy • The major events – Annual campaign kickoff, Chanukah Celebration, Celebrate Israel, Israel Scouts, JCRC Day of Learning, Jewish Summer Book Club, Jewish Book Festival, Majors/Lion of Judah, Power of Community Celebration, Shop with a Sheriff and Yom Hashoah • The outreach community support – requests for funds as needed to provide for those suffering from hurricanes, tragedies and worldwide events. And I’m probably forgetting some other things, too…

It’s almost exhausting thinking about everything Federation does. And they do it!

My first todah rabah is for Jewish Federation of Greater Naples that makes all this possible!

Thank you to the members of the Jewish Book Festival Committee – for their advice, book reviews, guidance and suggestions. Their names are published

In the United States, disaster relief, ambulance, and blood services are handled by an array of organizations. In Israel, there’s one organization that does it all — Magen David Adom.

As Passover approaches, whatever crises Israelis face — including terror or rocket attacks — MDA will be there to save lives.

Support Magen David Adom by donating today at afmda.org/give. Or for further information about giving opportunities, contact 561.835.0510 or southeast@afmda.org.

afmda.org/give

10

Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

April 2023

JYP partners with Chabad of Naples for Tu B'shvat

By Maya Williams, JYP Coordinator

I

n February, Jewish Young Professionals came together to celebrate Tu B'shvat with Rabbi Fishel of Chabad of Naples. We painted trees,

discussed the significance of the holiday and enjoyed some food and wine. It was a beautiful evening together, with members new and old.

Rabbi Fishel, Sam, Mak, Nicole, Maya, Geena, Cayla, Ruthie, Alyssa and Helen

Nicole, Rabbi Fishel, Sam, Mak and Ruthie

Meet the Rosen family PJ Library Family Spotlight

By Alicia Feldman, PJ Library Coordinator

Q

: Tell me about the Rosen family.

A: We are Alex and Jessica. We have two children, Ella (9) and Sydney (7). Our family has resided in Naples for the last nine years.

Q: What do you think about the quality of PJ Library books?

A: Both kids get excited to open their PJ Library envelopes. We have loved several of the picture books as the girls have grown up.

The quality is great! We love that the books include Jewish themes, are fun to read and make it into our regular book rotation.

Q: What are some of the family’s favorite PJ Library books?

A: That’s a tough question for us! So many PJ Library books are special to us for different reasons. But

Written and illustrated by David Hyde Costello

Written by Tamar Fox; Illustrated by Natalia Vasquez

Written and illustrated by Barney Saltzberg

if we must narrow it down, we decided on three.

Ella and Sydney love “Tea with Zayde” by Barney Saltzberg. The girls call Jessica’s Father Zayde, so it’s special because there aren’t too many stories with Zayde in the title.

Jessica went to elementary school with the author of “No Baths at Camp” by Tamar Fox, so we are partial to that one, too!

As a speech therapist, Jessica often uses “I Can Help”

by David Hyde Costello with her students. It was a favorite with the kids when they were younger, and she has since integrated it into her work.

Q: Are you involved in the Jewish community in Naples?

If so, how?

A: We are members of Temple Shalom, where our kids attend Sunday School.

Jessica is on the board and teaches the sixth grade at

Photo credit: Ella Photography, Val Newell

YeSH. We do enjoy events at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, like the Matzah Ball and the PJ Library playdates.

Q: A lot of parents say they feel PJ books help them raise good kids. Do you feel that way? Please explain.

A: We do think PJ library books help us raise good kids because they are driven by our Jewish values. Overall, they are a wonderful tool to help children learn about being Jewish with doing Mitzvot as a central part of that.

They also help reinforce a love of reading and the value of family time,

especially when the kids were younger, and we sat and read them together before bedtime.

In Sydney’s own words “I love reading books so so so much!” Thank you, PJ Library, for your part in giving her that gift!

If you, or someone you know, is interested in becoming a PJ Library Spotlight family, please let us know! Email Alicia Feldman at programs@jewishnaples.org.

Fo l l ow u s o n Fa c e b o o k @ P J LibraryNaplesFL.

SERVING SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SINCE 1987

Featuring unique clothing, accessories and shoes

$10

OFF

P u rch a s e of $75 or m o re

*Present coupon upon purchase

ARTEX KNITS BALI CARINE DAMEE ETHYL HABITAT INOAH LA PLUME SIMPLY SILK SNOSKINS TANGO MANGO TERRA TRIBAL SPORTSWEAR TRIBAL GOLF WALLAROO HATS

Naples Walk Shopping Center • 2464 Vanderbilt Beach Road

Hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00AM – 6:00PM • Sunday 12PM – 5:00PM • (239) 597-2662

Delicious Deli Grab & Go Foods Imported & American Artisan Cheese Fresh Local & Cold Water Seafood Natural & Organic Poultry European-Style Bakery Farm Fresh Produce & Organic Produce Fresh Made Juice Bar Great Selection of Gluten Free, Organic, Vegan, & Gourmet Products

MONDAY - SATURDAY 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM | SUNDAY 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM 141 NINTH ST. N., NAPLES, FL 34102 WYNNSMARKET.COM

JEWISH FEDERATION

April 2023

MEN’S CULTURAL ALLIANCE

Federation Star

11

www.MCANaples.org / 508.733.9427

Steve Iser: A Federation and MCA builder

By Marc Rosenweig, MCA member

F

or Steve Iser, the journey from Brooklyn to Nyack, New York and on to Naples is a great adventure.

He’s best known by many for his strong support of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, which led to the naming of the new Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center in honor of his late wife.

Nina Iser was a leader in the Jewish communities of Naples and Nyack. She was especially interested in the building of the cultural center. As someone who spent his career building homes, it was natural for Steve to also get involved in the project.

“The results are great,” he said of the center which opened in January. “It’s so good to see people going in and out (of the building) and being so happy. I hope it will eventually need expansion.”

Steve Iser It’s been a long journey for Steve Iser — one filled with hard work.

“I grew up in Brooklyn, East Flatbush,” said Iser. “It was very Jewish. On the high holidays, you would hardly see a car going down the street.”

His grandfather was in the plumbing business. On Saturdays, he’d join his grandfather, who was replacing plumbing in old tenement buildings. He helped recycle the old plumbing fixtures removed from the buildings.

“The building industry was ingrained in me at an early age,” said Iser, who later also worked with his father in his building business. “I was building in the summer. There was no summer camp.”

Code:

Iser earned an associate degree in building technology from New York City Community College followed by a bachelor’s from Pratt Institute and a master’s in urban planning from NYU. The last two were night programs.

Iser started building homes in the 1970s. “Life was a lot easier then,” he quipped. “You worked hard all day and maybe made a few phone calls at night, but there were no cellphones. We somehow made it work.”

Iser’s work resulted in extensive housing developments in Rockland County, New York. He says he managed to navigate through several recessions that hit the housing industry. He was eventually named president of the Rockland County Builder’s Association.

“My parents liked the east coast,” said Iser, whose parents lived near Ft. Lauderdale.

“We hated it.”

So, about 18 years ago, Steve and Nina first spent a month in Naples.

That expanded when they bought their first home 16 years ago. They also became big supporters of Naples Botanical Garden.

“Nina got involved in WCA. Then I got involved in MCA,” said Iser. They met many people through the WCA canasta group and other events.

“You can be involved in activities all day long. There’s something for everybody. People are friendly. It’s a great resource. You make friends. I’m amazed at what we do. But it’s nice to be home at least one night a week.”

Some of his favorite MCA activities have included kayaking and bocce. He also gets great joy from cruising on his boat. It’s his second one. He lost the first one to Superstorm Sandy.

“In the late ’90s, my aunt passed away and I got a check,” said Iser. “I used it to buy the first boat. I finally had money for it.” He describes his current boat as “a traditional powerboat — very

There are Four (4) Ways to Four Join MCA!!

There are (4)

1. Scan thisto Join Ways 2. Go to:MCA!! www.mcanaples.org and QR Code:

click on Membership.

3. Email Membership@mcanaples.org.

There are 3 Ways to 4. Send a check for $90 to the JFGN. Join the MCA!

Steve Iser, center, surrounded by family — on left, granddaughters Ilana and Wendi Segal, and Nina's sister, Abby Kahn; on right, daughter Lauren Segal and son-in-law Ron Segal — at the dedication wall of the Nina Iser Cultural Center. suitable for long-term cruising.” It’s 40 feet long.

“When I was growing up, I thought New York State had no redeeming value,” said Iser. “But traveling up the Hudson River, I found that upstate New York is beautiful. I appreciate the beauty of this country.” He often takes 10- to 15-mile bike trips when his boat stops along the way.

He doesn’t agree with the old saying that “the two best days are the day you buy the boat and the day you sell it.”

One of his most memorable cruises was just before COVID-19 hit. He traveled up the Hudson River, through Lake Champlain, up the Richelieu River and down the St. Lawrence to Prince Edward Island and Halifax, Nova Scotia. But then COVID closed down Canada. He had to leave his boat there for about two years.

But boating is now back in Iser’s life. He has a love for adventure along with his love of the Naples and Nyack Jewish communities.

MCA Luncheon April 20 at 11:30 AM WGCU’s 5 Year Plan of Growth presented by Corey Lewis General Manager of WGCU WGCU has embarked on a five-year plan to grow the NPR and PBS portfolio of programs with a new emphasis on locally originated content. Lewis will describe why this strategy runs counter to that of commercial media, which are under tremendous pressure to deliver value to shareholders.

Lewis spent the first 18 years of his career in commercial TV in several northern cities. In 2002 he joined WBUR, a public radio station in Boston , as director of corporate support and development and then served as station manager for 15 years.

This event is open to MCA members only.

Scan the QR code to register

mcanaples.org and click on Membership.

ership@mcanaples.org . or go to: www.mcanaples.org

1. Visit the website at www.MCAnaples.org. Click on for $90.00 to the JFGN. the MCA membership form and complete it. You

12

Federation Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

April 2023

WOMEN’S CULTURAL ALLIANCE

www.wcanaples.org / 518.852.3440

2023 WCA Volunteer Expo An opportunity to give back to our community

By Susan Pittelman, WCA Publicity Coordinator

W

CA held its signature “Community Volunteer Expo” on Tuesday, Jan. 17, which was only two days after the grand opening of the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. Started in January 2018 by WCA Special Events Director Linda Simon in response to WCA’s interest in giving back to our community, the WCA Volunteer Expo provides members an opportunity to meet representatives from local agencies that rely on volunteers to carry out their missions.

The 2023 Expo, chaired by superorganized WCA board member Linda Hyde with the assistance of talented board member Ann Cowen, was a huge success!

Thank you to volunteers Marlene Apkon, Sue Bookbinder, Sandy Diamond, Marcia WCA member Gail Kedrus Filiurin, Nancy Garfein, Rolly Jacobs, representing the Alliance for Nancy Kahn and Marlene Marsh as well Period Supplies for SWFL as Robin Mintz for her beautiful graphics and JFGN Facilities Manager Phil Zoltek who performed magic in setting up the room so close to the building’s opening.

Twenty-one local nonprofit agencies participated to share information about their agency as well as the types of volunteer positions available, and more than 140 community members came to learn about the agencies and find meaningful volunteer activities. The services offered by the participating agencies were diverse, including alleviating hunger in our local community; making a difference in the education of young children and their families; serving as Guardians ad Litem; interfacing with young girls experiencing conflict in school or at home; working The Immokalee Foundation with individuals with disabilities, such as reading to the blind; volunteer physiThe old adage, “When you need somecians providing medical care; as well as thing done, ask a busy woman,” certainly volunteers offering translation services applies to WCA members! Although memand many other worthwhile initiatives. bers are busy participating in the myriad of The day was rewarding for both preactivities that WCA offers, many women senters and participants. Several agencies balance that with service to the commucommented that they appreciated the nity. The WCA Volunteer Expo provided opportunity to network with other local the opportunity to extend their volunteer nonprofits. One WCA member, in comservice to other agencies within the Greater menting on the Expo, said, “This was a Naples community. wonderful opportunity to learn about all “I was proud to see that four of the these agencies and what they do. I got agency representatives were WCA memexactly everything I wanted!" Another bers!” said Hyde — “Paula Brody, Naples commented that she was astounded by Art District; Gail Rothenberg, Books all the volunteer options. Many of the for Collier Kids; Gail Kedrus, Alliance women who attended signed up to volfor Period Supplies of SWFL; and Lisa unteer with the participating agencies.

Freund, Planned After the Parenthood. In event, several agencies con“Volunteers do not necessarily fact, many WCA members already tacted Hyde to have the time, they just have work closely with express their appreciation the heart.” ~ Elizabeth Andrew these agencies.”

Numerous to WCA for WCA members hosting the who attended the Expo were so touched event and to say how well run and sucby the agencies they learned about that cessful the Expo was. Gail Kedrus, a they not only signed up to volunteer, but WCA member representing Alliance for also planned to share information about Period Supplies of SWFL, was gratethe agency with other WCA members. ful for “allowing me to interface with Marlene Apkon, for example, set up a so many wonderful WCA members.” tour of Youth Haven for WCA members.

The Immokalee Foundation said it was Marlene also signed up to be a preschool the best expo they had ever attended, tutor for Collier Literacy. and they looked forward to next year.

WCA member Gail Rothenberg (on the right) representing Books for Collier Kids

Pace Center for Girls April is U.S. National Volunteer Month, celebrating the impact volunteers have on our lives and encouraging active volunteerism in generations to come. Established in 1991 by President George H.W. Bush, National Volunteer Month was created as part of the launch of the 1,000 Points of Light campaign.

Volunteers come in all shapes and sizes.

They pick a cause and make a difference in someone’s life. As demonstrated by the agencies participating in the

Literacy Volunteers of Collier County Volunteer Expo, sometimes they can create a tidal wave of change.

Volunteer appreciation month is a most appropriate time to once again thank the WCA members who volunteer their time helping in the community as well as the members who devote time to create, organize and facilitate WCA events, programs and interest groups. With WCA being a volunteer-led organization, WCA’s success is due to you! Thank you!

WCA Has Planned An Exciting Year for Members of All Ages Don’t be left out!

Join WCA today.

VISIT WCANAPLES.ORG and click on MEMBERSHIP. Membership is through Aug. 2023.

QUESTIONS? Contact Membership Chair Harriett Kleinman at hmkleinman@gmail.com

COMMUNITY FOCUS

April 2023

Federation Star

13

Tributes To:

Patti Bloom In memory of Pete Bloom

From: Monica and Allan Goodman Jane Schiff

To:

Dr. Robert Ciralsky In honor of your special birthday

From: Karen & Curt Posner

To:

Pearl Fishman-Thall In honor of your special birthday

To:

From: Anna & Yale Levin From: Bella Calish Ellie Cantor Phyllis Lazear Marilyn Rane Marcelle Reiss Florence Sperling Marilyn Statfield Harriet Stein

Gayle & Marty Dorio Mazel Tov on your Granddaughter’s Bat Mitzvah

From: Gail & Daniel Kamm

Tributes require a minimum donation of $18.

To:

To:

Nat Ritter In your honor

From: Lori Wald

Marc Saperstein & Family In memory of Rose Saperstein

Nancy & Hank Greenberg From: Barbara & Milt Coleman In appreciation of your friendship and warm hospitality To:

From: Rosalee & Jerry Bogo

To:

To place a Tribute in the

Federation Star in honor

To: To:

Arlene and Zvi Leibovich In your honor

Bobbie Kauffman & Family In memory of Dr. Matthew Kauffman

Jane Schiff In honor of your dedication and good works for the Jewish Community of Naples

or memory of someone, please contact Janine Hudak at the Federation office at 239-263-4205 or jhudak@jewishnaples.org.

Tributes require a minimum donation of $18. A note card acknowledging your gift will be sent to the person or loved one you designate.

Tributes help further the work of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

From: Ireen & Alan Weinberg

From: Jane Schiff

Be MoreYOU.

Imagine everything you need to flourish. And, everything you would need to flourish for years to come. It’s all here, in one very captivating place: The Carlisle Naples senior living community.

The wealth of activities. The stylish setting. Fabulous cuisine.

Attentive service. And expert healthcare support should the need arise.

It’s everything you need to live your life, your way.

LUNCH & LEARN | THURSDAY, APRIL 20TH • 11:30AM Join us for lunch and learn about The Carlisle.

To RSVP, call 239.444.6891.

ASK ABOUT AVAILABLE ON-SITE REHABILITATIVE SERVICES

CARF-ACCREDITED INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCES • ECC LI CENSED 6945 Carlisle Court • Naples, FL • TheCarlisleNaples.com • 239.444.6891 EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY #9408

Located just south of Orange Blossom Drive on the west side of Airport-Pulling Road

D I N I N G O P TIO N S • TR AN S P O RTATI O N • VI B R ANT WE LLN E S S P RO G R AM S

Visit the Federation’s website for a continuously updated community calendar www.jewishnaples.org

14

Federation Star

COMMUNITY FOCUS

April 2023

HOLOCAUST MUSEUM & JANET G. AND HARVEY D. COHEN EDUCATION CENTER www.HMCEC.org / 239.263.9200

At the Museum Susan Suarez President & CEO CREDIT: DELL RIVER IMAGERY

T

he Museum’s annual Triumph event at the Arthrex Conference Center was a great success! Thank you to our sponsors and all who attended for your support. Guest speaker Michael Abramowitz from Freedom House gave a most insightful presentation on the current state of international human rights and pro-democracy movements. He is well qualified to speak on the subject due to personal contact with people on the ground in those movements. Net funds raised benefited our education programs.

Education department update

Our work with students and schools, to teach about the Holocaust and combat antisemitism, was featured in Neapolitan Family Magazine in its March issue.

The article includes comments from high school student Bailey Reum. We applaud Bailey for being an upstander by speaking out and serving as a volunteer docent at the Museum. You can read the article at https://issuu.com/neafam/docs/ march_2023_a/22.

Museum Education Specialist David Nelson and Keith Stringfellow, a USHMM teaching fellow from Winter Haven, FL, conducted a spring teacher workshop at the Museum.

Participants in the allday session came from elementary schools, middle schools, high schools and colleges across Southwest Florida. The agenda focused on the latest trends in Holocaust education and provided teachers with information and resources to use with their students. The group took advantage of the opportunity to share their insights and experiences of teaching about the Holocaust in the variety of grade levels represented.

Our Education department has also been working with 6th-grade students at Temple Shalom’s Sunday School as they learn about the Holocaust. David Nelson gave a presentation on Holocaust hero Irena Sendler, and Museum Board Member, Docent and Education Volunteer Stuart Mest, M.D. spoke to the class about children in the Holocaust. Dr. Mest’s parents were Holocaust survivors.

Survivor Rob Nossen, a board member, docent and education volunteer at the Museum, shared his family’s experiences,

Thank You "Triumph of Freedom” Sponsors for Your Support!

Remembrance Sponsor: Estelle and Stuart Price; Testimony Sponsor: Shelley and Steven Einhorn, Maureen and Arnold Lerner, Sam Levin Foundation, Fran and Rob Nossen, Ashley and Anthony Solomon/Ronto Group, Richard Yovanovich Hope Sponsor: City Mattress, Gracia Kuller, Life in Naples Magazine, Lorelei Meeker and Geoffrey Grodner, Publix Super Market Charities Inspire Sponsor: Felicia and Kenneth Anchor, Claudia and Lawrence Baer/Baer’s Furniture, Silvie and Herb Berkeley, Goldie and Lou Bertone, Dottie McGovern, F.E. and Jack Nortman, Susan and Nathaniel Ritter, Ellaine and Richard Rosen, William D. Ross, Sandy and Fred Roth, Anne Schuchman and Stephen Light, Linda Singer and Louis Klein, Jr., WGCU Public Media Patron: Barbara and Hymie Akst, Cheryl and Warren Alifeld, Harriet and Louis Berneman, Shirley and Marshall Besikof, Penni and Mark Blaskey, Leslie and Jules Cogan, Becky Cornacchia, Ellen and Alan Englander, Paula and Ronald Filler, Leslie and Steven Goodman, Deborah and Michael Greenberg, Marcia and Paul Greenberg, Rissa Grossman, Shelli A. Halper, Nancy Kahn, Diane and Ron McGinty, Ruth and Peter Pogany, Sarah Rockler, Judy and Stanley Ruskin, Karen and Bill Sartoris, Nancy and Steven Schachtman, Jane Schiff, Gail and Russell G. Smith II, Linda and Russ Southworth, Mindy and Jay Sterns, Phyllis and Steve Strome, Nancy G. White, Marina Youngblood and Robert Cahners

Teacher workshop room as did survivor Judit Price. The class also volunteers shaped her life. Today, had a private tour of the Museum led Franklin is bringing that same ray of

by Docent and Education Volunteer hope back to incarcerated women.

Irving Waldman.

Also joining the panel will be a repThe Education department continues resentative from Avow Hospice, Inc.’s to see an increase in the number of stucounseling program for children with dent and private group tours being schedincarcerated parents. One week prior uled. If you would like more information to the Zoom discussion, a link to watch about the variety of educational options "APART" will be sent to all people who we offer, including bringing displays and signed up. A link to Zoom will be sent speakers to your school, please email 24 hours before the program. To RSVP, David Nelson at David@hmcec.org. please visit www.hmcec.org.

The Boxcar Exhibit, on loan to the Museum from F.E. and Jack Nortman North wing update and The Boxcar Foundation, will be at the Construction continues on our new Lehigh Acres Middle School this month. north wing. The interior walls are up, It then travels to the Punta Gorda Library and lighting and new window installafor May. tions are nearly complete. The additional space will allow for a new classroom, an Two Regimes exhibit Auschwitz gallery, another gallery for Our temporary exhibit in the Estelle and other genocides and human rights, larger Stuart Price Gallery is on display through temporary exhibit space, and more. Upon April. Through special arrangement, completion, the Museum will increase giclee prints of some of the paintings in from 6,000 square feet to 9,600 square the exhibit by Artist Nadia Werbitzky are feet. This will allow us to serve thousands available for $35, plus tax. Please contact more students and guests each year. North Museum Curator Cody Rademacher at wing naming opportunities are available.

Cody@hmcec.org for more information.

For more information, please contact me at 239-263-9200 or susan@hmcec.org.

“Movies that Matter” update

The next “Movies that Matter – Steve Brazina Memorial Film Series” Zoom panel discussion will be held on Wednesday, May 3 from 4 to 5 p.m. (EST). The documentary, “APART,” looks at the impact on women incarcerated on drugrelated charges and their families. The film follows Tomika, Amanda and Malika as they try to restore family life during and after their prison terms.

Zoom panelists will include Tammy Franklin, associate director, academy programs at Prison Fellowship. Prison

Condolences

Our condolences to the families of local Holocaust survivors Paul Simko and Max Weisglass. We received word that both gentlemen recently passed away.

Yom HaShoah

This year, the annual community commemoration of Yom HaShoah will take place on Monday, April 17, 7 p.m., at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. For more information, visit jewishnaples.org.

We look forward to seeing you at the Museum!

(as of 3/10/23 print deadline)

Holocaust Museum & Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen Education Center 975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Suite 108, Naples, FL 34110 239-263-9200 HMCEC.org Info@HMCEC.org

North wing light installation

COMMUNITY FOCUS

April 2023

Federation Star

15

If it’s Pysec’h, spring can’t be far behind!

The Yiddish corner

By Sol Awend, GenShoah SWFL

I

f Purim just passed, PassEuropean, you remember it over is exactly a month being called Py-sec’h. Because away. You know what that the Hebrew and English calenmeans — spring is just around dars are different, the question the corner. was always…

By us Jews, it’s a most In a sentence: Venn kimp’t important time of the year, Paysec’h, freeyeh odeh shpayteh? for, without Passover, we never (When does Passover occur, would have gotten a calendar. early or late?)

The first Law that was created said that the Israelites should Deh si-deh tish have their own way of markPronunciation: deh SI-deh Sol Awend ing time.

TISH So, on the Jewish calendar’s 14th of Meaning: The seder table, in all its Nissan, we usher in the Holiday markglory, with a beautiful dinner table set ing our birth as a Nation. Over the ages, and complete with the Holiday symbols. customs surrounding Pesach have been In a sentence: Zay no vee shein deh woven into our framework of being Seideh Tish zay’t oss! (Look how beautiful Jews; food being near the top of the list. the seder table looks!)

Coming home from school, you’d Hagoodeh probably find your Mom or Babeh gleefully cooking in the kitchen, creating Pronunciation: ha-GOO-deh delights that still muster up wonderMeaning: You probably know it as ful memories, no? Nah! Faa zee ec’h! the Haggadah, and it’s the action-packed Here! Taste! story of the Jewish people. The long and Starting off our trip for this month winding story is told through commenare words and phrases associated with tary and customs, one of which you’d Passover, the earth-shattering event that better know. started our belief system.

In a sentence: Nem dee Hagoodeh un mish off Dee Feeyeh Kashes! (Take the Pysec’h Hagadah and find the four questions!)

Pronunciation: PY-sec’h Bentsh lic’ht Meaning: Passover. In Hebrew school, Pronunciation: BEN-sh LIC’HT you learned it as Peh-saac’h. If you were

Meaning: This is where your Mom or Babeh would light the candles commemorating the start of the holiday. The table set, alles fah pits’t, everything polished.

In a sentence: Alles shaa-shtill, Deh Mameh bensh’t Dee Lic’ht. (In silence, Mom blesses the (holiday) candles.)

In a sentence: It’s right about now, dipping your finger into the wine that you …

Fah c’haazeh daim vaasen tish tec’h miit’n vaan. (You stain the white tablecloth with wine.) Like that first dent in a new car, it’s all downhill from there.

Kiddish

Pronunciation: KIDD—ish Meaning: Reciting the prayer over the wine In a sentence: Deh Taateh ot geh maac’ht Kiddish. (Dad performed the act of saying Kiddish.) Flayeh er hawt oogeh hoyben, ot men nisht geh hayet a voret.

(Before he started, not a word was heard.)

Pronunciation: KE-ny-del/KE-nyd-lec’h Meaning: Matzo ball, singular; Matzo balls, plural. If they were made right, they’d be floating to the surface of the boiling water and be light as air in your soup bowl.

In a sentence: Zay no vee shein dee k’nydlec’h ob’n zrc’h off geh koc’ht! (Look how nicely the matzo balls were cooked!)

Deh feeyeh kaashes

Yowec’h

Pronunciation: deh FEE-yeh KA-shes Meaning: The four questions. If you were the ying-steh, the youngest, well, it was showtime.

In a sentence: Kim ah hayeh, lomeh heren vee dee zoogs’t Deh Fee-yeh Kaashes!

(Come over here, let’s hear how you say the four questions!) You would be standing next to your dad, looking at one another, as was everyone else around the table. Failure was not an option.

Dee t’zain maahkes

Pronunciation: dee T”ZAIN mahkes Meaning: The ten plagues.

K’nyd’l/k’neidlec’h

Pronunciation: YO-wec’h Meaning: Chicken soup. It’s not always used to heal the sick and makes the start of any meal an uplifting experience; especially if …

In a sentence: Deh yowec’h hot oygen! (The soup has eyes!) It’s those round globules of fat floating on the surface of the soup that adds to the character of the k’neidlec’h.

Myren

Pronunciation: MY-ren Meaning: Carrots. They were the key ingredient in the t’zimmess, a traditional continued on page 16

We Understand the raditions Legal Needs and Traditions Of Our Community.

Amanda M. Dorio Estate Planning and Trust Administration

Katie Kohn Divorce, Marital & Family Law

Attorneys Amanda Dorio and Katie Kohn have represented clients from the Naples community for more than 20 years. Amanda works with her clients in estate planning, trust administration and wills, and Katie assists clients in matters regarding adoption, divorce, marital and family law. They both use understanding, compassion and experience to help with their community’s legal needs – just as we’ve done since 1924.

Named one of the “2023 Best Law Firms” by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers in America©

henlaw.com 239.344.1100 Fort Myers • Bonita Springs Naples • Sarasota*

Where Tradition Meets the Future.

®

B U S I N E S S & TA X • B U S I N E S S L I T I G AT I O N • CO N S T R U C T I O N • D I VO R C E , M A R I TA L & FA M I LY • E M P LOY M E N T H E A LT H C A R E • I N T E L L E C T U A L P R O P E R T Y • L A N D U S E , ZO N I N G & E N V I R O N M E N TA L • M E R G E R S & AC Q U I S I T I O N S R E A L E S TAT E • TO RT & I N S U R A N C E • W I L L S , T R U S T & E S TAT E P L A N N I N G • WO R K ER S’ CO M P EN S AT I O N *By appointment only.

©2023 Henderson Franklin Starnes & Holt, P.A.

16

Federation Star

COMMUNITY FOCUS

April 2023

Sharing and remembrance

By Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb

M

stories, which are posted on the Holocaust Museum website (hmcec.org). Any local 2Gs who would like to write their stories and have them posted can do so.

And, if help is needed, contact Shelley at liebro@gmail.com.

Sharing requires remembering, something that is often not easy but, in reference to the Holocaust, is an imperative.

“Memory is what shapes us. Memory is what teaches us. We must understand that’s where our redemption is,” said Rabbi M. Bruce Lustig of the Washington Hebrew Congregation. “Days of Remembrance is an opportunity for us to remember the suffering that was and the efforts that were made to put an end to such suffering, and it’s a call to conscience today in our world to make sure that we aren’t the silent ones standing by, contributing to the suffering of others.”

According to genocide prevention educator Bridget Conley-Zilic, we can honor those who suffered and died in the Holocaust by not being silent. Remembering ties the past to the present, bringing them together.

“We owe it, not only to the living, to remember the killing of 6 million Jews during the Nazi Holocaust, but to those who died as well. To forget the dead is akin to killing them a second time,” said Ellie Wiesel.

Remember Wiesel’s words and remember the victims, survivors of the Holocaust and the rescuers at our community Yom HaShoah Commemoration of April 17, 7 p.m., at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. (see page 5A for more information and to RSVP).

Bronia Ichel

Michael Gurtman

Rolly Jacob

Denise Pine

Rene Geist

Shelley Lieb

Shirley Moskowitz

Sam Geist

any of the 2G members of GenShoah SWFL have been willing to share the stories of their parents. New members who attended the Welcome Brunch told the stories to those in attendance as did those who attended the annual Our Stories.

This year, in addition to the stories, members shared meaningful family photos. Even though every story is different, there is a commonality and special bond when shared.

In addition to telling the stories of our parents who lived through a most horrific time, another way to share these important stories is to write them so that they will be preserved. Many 2Gs have already written their parent’s

Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb

spring can't be far behind...continued from page 15 Ashkenazi Jewish stew typically made Meaning: Gefilte fish with horse radish It can also be pronounced as C’hrayn. from carrots and dried fruits such as prunes. From experience, you know to Same explosive character and comes in load up on this. regular or red; good for spilling on the In a sentence: Deh t’zimmess iz zayeh tablecloth. If done right, it’ll bring tears geh shmaack! (The t’zimmess is delicious!) to your eyes and make you breathe normal in no time.

Geh feelteh fish In a sentence: Geb ah hayeh ah shtik’l geh feelteh fish. Tee arof ah bissel c’hein! mit c’hein Pronunciation: geh-FEEL-teh fish mit (Pass a piece of gefilte fish. Put some C’HEIN horseradish on top of it!)

Oogeh praygelteh matza braan

Pronunciation: OO-geh PRAY-gel-teh MAH-tzeh BRAAN Meaning: Fried Matzo This delicacy is one for which you wait the whole year. Depending on your background, you can add a variety of toppings. Growing up, we only used sugar, while many used sour cream

and jelly. I must admit it could be a contender for the breakfast of champions. That and a glayzel tei mit t’zikeh un t’zeh treen (a glass of tea with sugar and lemon) — what a way to say hello to springtime!

In a sentence: Hob ah freilic’hen Pysec’h!

(Have a joyous Passover!)

COMMUNITY FOCUS

17

Federation Star

April 2023

www.naplesseniorcenter.org / 239.325.4444

BAKER SENIOR CENTER NAPLES, INC.

New center accommodates more member and programs In the first six weeks at our new address, we welcomed 525 new members, Dr. Jaclynn the majority of whom walked in to see Faffer what we are all about, then joined.

The new space enables us to increase President/ programming, both in scale and in scope.

CEO The tai chi, yoga and fitness classes are very popular, as are the art classes. Our ife has been exciting at Baker bright and sunny art room has classes Senior Center Naples (BSCN). On in pastels and watercolors and is the site Friday, Feb. 24, we held an open for our very well attended needlework house to welcome donors and friends to program. And our Wednesday “Lunch 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane. More than 200 and More” hot lunch program is now guests celebrated our new 30,000-squarewelcoming an average of 260 members. foot building and all that takes place On Feb. 23, we had our first Café inside (and outside!).

Europa luncheon, where we welcomed 36 Holocaust survivors and their families to a catered hot lunch with music by our own Naples K l e z m e r Ba n d .

Attending guests danced to the music and socialized. We look forward to continuing to offer more programs like Café Europa.

Our Brookdale Cognitive Health Center now occupies an entire wing of the new building.

Watercolor class in progress

L

Open House Feb. 24, 2023 Participants are increasing in number, and we now have a total of seven respite groups here on Autumn Oaks Lane.

As Medicare providers for geriatric mental health, we look forward to an expansion of that program. We are “staffing up” to meet the demand in both the respite and the mental health programs.

While many things have changed, like our name and our logo, we stay true to our mission of providing confidence,

connection and support to seniors living in Collier and southern Lee counties. Senior Center membership is $60 per year and includes everything BSCN has to offer. Respite groups are $45 per session.

Scholarships are available for anyone who needs assistance. No one is ever turned away because of inability to pay.

Please stop by for a tour. Become a member, a volunteer or just a friend.

Our best to you for a sweet Passover.

Announcing Two New Residence Buildings at Siena Lakes!

It’s a great time to make the move to a vibrant retirement at North Naples’ premier senior living community. The real estate market is red hot and Siena Lakes opened two brand-new residence buildings featuring: • Spacious floorplans with high-end finishes • Hurricane-ready construction designed for community safety • On-site restaurants, medical center, and fitness center • Convenient location close to shopping, beaches, and more

Limited homes remain.

Call 1-800-597-9105 today North Naples SienaLakesNaples.com 430663-FS-B

to learn more and receive your free brochure.

18

Federation Star

COMMUNITY FOCUS / ORGANIZATIONS

April 2023

You’re invited…

JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF SWFL

www.jhsswf.org / 239.566.1771

By Chuck Naumoff, Naples Jewish Congregation Publicity Chair

E

veryone is invited to a beautiful Community Passover Seder presented by the Naples Jewish Congregation. The seder service will be conducted by Rabbi Howard Herman with music provided by Alla Gorelik and cantorial soloist Jane Galler.

Jo i n u s We d n e s d a y, Ap r i l 5 , 5 p.m., at the beautiful Cypress Woods

Country Club. There will be a traditional Passover dinner with gefilte fish, matzo ball soup, roasted chicken and wine. The cost is $60 per person; $18 for kids under 12.

Order tickets online at www.naples jewishcongregation.org or mail your check to NJC, PO Box 111994, Naples FL 34108.

Do you hear what I hear?

Marina Berkovich JHSSWF President

A Temple Shalom events for all

By Jeanette Fischer, Temple Shalom Director of Communications

T

he following Temple Shalom events are open to everyone.

Torah Talk

Join this lay-led discussion of the week’s Torah portion every Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m. via Zoom. Please contact the Temple Shalom office at info@ naplestemple.org for the Zoom link.

Jewish yoga

Join yoga teacher Missy Balsam via Zoom as she guides you through an all-levels gentle yoga stretch session interwoven with Jewish spiritual teachings, designed to relieve stress and calm the mind. This class, held Mondays at 11 a.m., will be practiced lying down and sitting on the floor. Open to all, no experience necessary. The cost is $54 for a 7-week session.

Call the Temple Shalom office to register and receive the Zoom information.

Shabbat ShaPlay

Join Rabbi Boxman and Miss Jane on Saturday, April 1 at 10 a.m. as we sing, dance, play and celebrate Shabbat in the park. All young families are invited to attend. Temple Shalom membership is not required. To register, contact education@naplestemple.org.

Beach Shabbat

Join us on Lowdermilk Park beach Friday, April 7 for a beautiful sunset Shabbat service at 7 p.m. We meet at the north end of the beach. Don’t forget a beach chair!

Thinking About Good and Evil

Wednesdays, April 12 – May 3, at noon, with Rabbi Frank Muller The past year has seen an unprecedented amount of evil in the world — from the brutal war in Ukraine to mass shootings in the U.S., not to mention the toll COVID-19 has taken. People question how they can maintain their faith and belief in a God who could allow so many bad things to happen. Sadly, little has been written over the years about the problem of evil from a Jewish perspective. Using a new book, “Thinking About Good and Evil,” by Rabbi Wayne Allen, Rabbi Muller will present an overview of how Jewish sages and teachers from Biblical times to the present have grappled with this vexing issue. To register, email education@naplestemple.org.

n old Arab proverb says, “If you do not know where you are going, you will find yourself somewhere else.” Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida has been on a steady trek of collecting, documenting, preserving and celebrating local Jewish history since April 2010. It is our 13th anniversary, and our painstaking work resonates as far as Israel, where all our Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers films are now a part of ANU Museum of the Jewish People in Tel Aviv. All our films are broadcast-quality original productions.

preserved much of the early story of Jewish life in Collier County. This free of charge event is of particular interest and value to newcomers, who are typically unfamiliar with local Jewish history. But old-timers and repeat viewers are welcome to experience it again. In-person events are as nostalgic as Weinfeld’s recollection of her early days in Naples. As of the date of this publication, Weinfeld is about a Chai short of 120. May she be blessed with good health to live to this historic age.

On Tuesday, May 9 at 3 p.m., we will share the story of “Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers: The Labodas of Fort Myers,” our original production. This film covers the days of the Jewish communities in Lee and Charlotte counties as told by its Jewish Federation co-founder Sheila Laboda. Dr. Jerry Laboda is an expert on the life and history of Abraham C. Myers, a confederate Provisions General

Soulful Shabbat

Join us on Friday evening, April 28 at 7:30 p.m. for the very popular Soulful Shabbat, a musical shabbat service conducted entirely in song and accompanied by the Temple Shalom Band. Everyone is invited to attend this uplifting shabbat evening service.

Sunday School For Adults

Rabbi James Perman returns Sunday, April 16 at 10 a.m. with another installment of Sunday School for Adults.

This year’s theme is “Jewish Beliefs in Our Challenging World.”

AN EGALITARIAN PROGRESSIVE CONGREGATION MEMBER OF THE UNITED SYNAGOGUE OF CONSERVATIVE JUDAISM

FREE

FIRST YEAR DUES for ALL NEW MEMBERS!

1 4 59 PINE RIDG E RO A D , N AP L E S , F L 239.434.1818 • BethTikvahNaples.org

Marina Berkovich, Alexander Goldstein, Mitch Spaser, Rabbi Fishel Zaklos, Robert Davidson and Shellie Specter at Chabad of Naples after premiere of "Spaser Family Story." Photo credit: Lois Bolin The resonance after the Feb. 6 premiere of “Spaiser Family Story” and March Local Jewish History Film Festival was loud and clear — please make more films like this; there are many interesting people in Southwest Florida, each with a story to capture. We hear you, we absolutely agree and we need extra resources to complete these wonderful community expectations.

In April, after we all celebrate Passover, we will commemorate Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM). Why is it important to celebrate it? The month of May has been selected for annual nationwide recognition of achievements and contributions by Jews to the U.S. We are all immigrants and descendants of immigrants of various times, countries, degree of religiousness and different cultural practices. What unifies us unfailingly is that we are Jews, and we stand together in times of peace and prosperity as well as in times of adversity, as one people, dispersed, yet united in our Jewish identity, whatever it may mean to each of us.

On Tuesday May 2 at 3 p.m., we will present “SWFL Florida Jewish Pioneers: Helen Weinfeld.” This documentary is about Naples’ very first and self-appointed Jewish historian, who documented and

and southern Jewish gentleman, after whom the city of Fort Myers is named.

A short film about that will also be a part of that afternoon’s program. The Laboda children were raised in Southwest Florida and found their successes locally.

Both May 2 and May 9 programs are no fee and will be held at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

Are you interested in sponsoring this or any other event? Please contact us at office@jhsswf.org.

You may now purchase Jewish Historical Society of SWFL memberships online or mail us a check. A family membership is $54; individual membership is $36; student membership is $18; and corporate sponsorship is $300. If mailing a check, please send to The Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida, 8805 Tamiami Trail North, Suite #255, Naples, FL 34108.

We can be reached at 833-547-7935 (833-JHS-SWFL), www.jhsswf.org or office@jhsswf.org. The Virtual Museum of SWFL Jewish History is located online at http://jewishhistorysouthwestflorida.org/.

The Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida is a section 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Contributions are deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

ORGANIZATIONS

April 2023

Federation Star

19

www.hadassah.org / 518.330.1559

COLLIER/LEE CHAPTER OF HADASSAH

Brave women impact the world

Collier/Lee Hadassah celebrated inspiring women three months before placing him in the basket on the riverbank with Miriam, at second annual event Moses’ older sister, watching over him.

Joyce Toub Collier/Lee Hadassah President

O

n Purim, we read the Megillah, the story of Esther, a heroic woman who risked her life going to King Ahasuerus to save the Jewish people from extinction. Esther demonstrated the importance of women in our communities, encouraging us to act, even in the face of danger. Esther demonstrated the power of one and how amazing that can be.

Like Esther and the story of Purim, the story of Hadassah also began with one strong, brave woman, Henrietta Szold.

Hadassah Shabbat Zachor, held March 3 at Temple Shalom and March 4 at Beth Tikvah, celebrated Hadassah’s origins and all the organization has accomplished since. The week of Purim marks the anniversary of Hadassah’s birth in 1912.

Hadassah is the Hebrew name for Esther.

As we observe Passover, we commemorate our freedom from slavery in Egypt.

Once again, we see the impact of brave women. We are thankful that five courageous women followed their conscience, helping the Israelites on a path to freedom.

The Torah tells us that Shifra and Puah were two midwives who disobeyed Pharaoh’s orders to kill every Israelite boy born. Yocheved hid her baby, Moses, for

Pharaoh’s daughter, Batia, finds Moses and rears him as her own. These five courageous women — Shifra, Puah, Yocheved, Miriam and Batia — opposed Pharaoh’s mandates. Who knew that this baby would one day save the Hebrew nation? True power comes from standing up for what you believe is right and ethical no matter the obstacles.

All of us can take powerful actions today. If you are concerned about challenges to a woman’s right to choose, let your voice be heard. If you are distressed about the increase in antisemitism, let your voice be heard. We have to move beyond our comfort level to act on our beliefs.

Henrietta’s Szold’s passion and desire to bring “modern health care” to poor, unhealthy people living in overcrowded conditions began in 1912 in what was then Palestine. It has since transformed into the Hadassah Medical Organization. Our two hospitals in Jerusalem, Ein Kerem and Mount Scopus, are recognized among the 250 best hospitals in the world! Doctors of different faiths and nationalities care for patients of all faiths and nationalities.

Through compassion and perseverance, Hadassah has kept the eternal light of Henrietta‘s Szold’s vision burning brightly even as it has grown into an organization with over 300,000 members, associates and supporters.

A zissen Pesach to all!

THE “MATCHMAKER” OF SENIOR HOUSING Let me help you find a match!

By Diane Schwartz

C

Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, Gail Markham and Mia Hyatt after each receiving the Lynn Wilner Award

ollier/Lee Hadassah proudly celebrated and honored three women as its 2023 Inspiring Women event: • Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, president/CEO of Baker Senior Center Naples and a visionary community leader and human services executive • Gail Markham, the founding partner of Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Company, P.A. Certified Public

Accountants and Consultants. Markham is a well-known and recognized community leader and philanthropist.

• Mia Hyatt, vice president and private banker in the Naples office of J.P. Morgan Private Bank. Hyatt is a private wealth advisor and noted community leader.

Each honoree received the Lynn Wilner Award in recognition of the chapter’s late past president who inspired so many to join and become active in Hadassah.

Wollman, Gehrke & Associates Proud Supporter of the 2023 Jewish Book Festival

With over 30 years of experience, I help eliminate the guesswork in choosing the right senior living community that meets your needs and preferences. I look beyond the fancy décor and evaluate facilities on: Bruce Rosenblatt Owner/Senior Housing Advisor Certified Dementia Practitioner Senior Housing Solutions

Quality of care and services Resident satisfaction Health care violations Financial viability Overall lifestyle Operational stability

Honest and knowledgeable advice about assisted living options...

AT S1 NO COST TO YOU!

239.595.0207

WWW.SENIORHOUSINGSOLUTIONS.NET

Join Us — JFGN Annual Meeting and Election of Board Members and Officers When: Monday, April 10, beginning at 7 p.m.

Where: Schiff Social Hall at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. Please plan to attend!

WWW.SENIORHOUSINGSOLUTIONS.NET

Estate Planning • Wills & Trusts • Probate Administration

(239) 435-1533 | Probate-Florida.com

20

Federation Star

April 2023

Simply Put: Homeowners Despise Roaches!

by Anna Wallace, Truly Nolen

As Spring takes hold, families in Southwest Florida are planning to get together for Passover celebrations and are looking forward to loved ones returning home from college. One unwelcome visitor no matter the month is the dreaded cockroach.

Cockroaches typically have six spiny legs and two long antennae. American cockroaches, which like hot, humid conditions and have fully developed wings, and German cockroaches, implicated in outbreaks of illness and allergic reactions in many people, are the two most common species that are found in the southwestern United States.

A very common pest, cockroaches are nocturnal and remain in the dark whenever possible, only emerging to search for water and food. Large infestations should be suspected when cockroaches are seen in the open or in the light during the day. Cockroaches have lived off the bare essentials with few changes since their creation millions of years ago.

They have become such widespread pests because they thrive on very little. Contrary to popular belief, they aren't simply attracted to

messy households, although that will extend their stay. They simply require three things: water, food, and warm shelter.

In addition, cockroaches typically prefer damp, warm places and usually reproduce quickly in garages, sewers, attics, storerooms and similar locations, and then enter the home from outside breeding sites. For every one you see there can be many, many more hiding and multiplying behind your walls.

Cockroaches can get into the cleanest of living spaces because in most situations, we unknowingly bring them home. They can be found behind refrigerators, sinks and stoves, as well as under floor drains and inside of motors and major appliances. If you can't find any of them during the day, check cupboards and pantries for their droppings.

Cockroaches affect more people than any other insect. They vomit partly-digested food materials and continually defecate while eating and pose significant health hazards by transmitting diseases (bacillary dysentery, typhoid fever, cholera, polio, amoebic dysentery, urinary-tract infections, diarrhea, and infectious hepatitis). The debris created by

cast-off cockroach skins, dead bodies and droppings can aggravate allergies, especially in children and sensitive individuals. Furthermore, contact with cockroach allergens can cause mild to severe rashes, other allergic reactions and in extreme cases death from asthma attacks.

Some ways to prevent an outbreak before you may need a pest control professional include eliminating water (do not let water stand in sinks and eliminate outside collection areas), eliminating food sources (dispose garbage properly and wipe off counter tops often), and eliminate harborages (discard unnecessary cardboard boxes and pull mulch away from your home).

(Anna Wallace is the Manager for Truly Nolen in Naples. Her service office can be reached at (239) 643-2555. Founded in 1938, Tucson-based Truly Nolen of America (www.trulynolen.com) is one of the largest family-owned pest control companies in the United States. To learn more about the roach services we provide, please visit https://trulynolen.com/pest-control/roaches/.)

Call Now!

Receive a FREE inspection and these great offers.

*Applicable to new annual service agreement & does not apply to Value Packages.

239 494 3544 239•494•3544

PEST•TERMITE•RODENT•LAWN•INSULATION RODENT•LAWN•INSULATION

REMEMBER The Story of Abe Price | BY JEFFERY BINDER Monday, April 17 at 7:00 pm | Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

FREE admission. Registration is encouraged at www.jewishnaples.org.

JEWISH INTEREST

April 2023

1A

Federation Star

TV painter, broken color line, smart zombie series, and more Stars of David

By Nate Bloom, Stars of David Contributing Columnist

E

ditor’s Note: Persons in bold are deemed by Nate Bloom to be Jewish for the purpose of this column. Persons identified as Jewish have at least one Jewish parent and were not raised in, or identify with, a faith other than Judaism. Converts to Judaism, of course, are also identified as Jewish.

“Paint”

Opening in theaters on April 7, “Paint” centers on Carl Nargle (Owen Wilson), who has hosted Vermont’s No. 1 painting (TV) show for about 30 years. (The Nargle character is clearly inspired by the late Bob Ross of PBS fame. But Carl is not nearly as famous as Ross was.)

Things change when Carl’s TV station hires a younger, better painter and “steals” everything (and everyone) that Carl loves.

Michela Watkins, 51, has second billing as “Katherine,” but advance publicity doesn’t disclose her exact connection to Carl. You “know” Watkins — even though it’s hard to point to a “signature credit.”

“Sweetwater”

In theaters April 14, “Sweetwater” chronicles the career of Nat “Sweetwater” Clifton, who was one of the first two African American players to break the NBA “color line” in 1950. (Two Black players broke into the NBA within days of each other). Clifton played for the NY Knicks from 1950-57.

A number of real-life Jews are featured in the film. It would take a column to lay out who they were and why they are important to the Clifton story. Here they are, with their titles and the actor playing them: Maurice Podoloff (Richard Dreyfuss, 75), highly respected attorney and head of the NBA in 1950; Joe Laphick (Jeremy Piven, 57), he was the coach of the Knicks in 1950 and a great player before coaching; Abe Saperstein (Kevin Pollak, 65), founder and coach of the all-black Harlem Globetrotters. Clifton played for the Trotters before joining the Knicks; Eddie Gottlieb, big-time coach (Mike Star)

“The Last of Us”

I was reluctant to watch “The Last of Us,” a “dystopian” HBO series that premiered in January and ended its first season a week ago. I like a relatively quick conclusion and I’m tired of movies and series that are set in a “screwed-up” fictional world and go on and on (sequels or new seasons).

For example, “The Walking Dead,” about a zombie apocalypse, ran 11(!) seasons. It concluded when viewers would no longer watch repetitive storylines.

“The Last of Us” may “go the way” of “The Walking Dead.” But, right now, it is an exciting, very well-written program.

I tuned in and “binge-watched” it when I saw great reviews and articles that said that HBO had its biggest ratings hit since “Games of Thrones.”

Here’s the essential setup: in 2003, a mutant fungus infects people all over the world. There is no vaccine or treatment.

The infection turns victims into zombies whose only aim is to infect other people

(via a bite). The storyline focuses on Joel Miller (Pedro Pascal), a small-time construction contractor who deftly stays uninfected. In flashbacks, and jumps forward, we follow him from 2003 to 2023.

(No Jewish actor has appeared in a main or important guest role).

“Last” is based on a series of very popular and literate(!) video games (entitled “Naughty Dog”). For the most part, the plot of the first HBO season, and the characters, were created for the video game first.

The original video game and its sequels were created by and written (scripts) by Neil Druckmann, 44. He was born in Israel, and lived there until 1989, when his family moved to the States. He has the technical ability to create video games (programming, etc.) and the talent to write very good stories.

Druckmann and Craig Mazin, 51, co-created the HBO series and Mazin has adapted the video scripts for the HBO continued on page 2A

TheatreZone APRIL/MAY HEADLINER

APRIL 27-MAY 7 TZ18_JewishFedHalfHorz_ROA23.indd 1

★ ★ ★

MARCH 9-19

Star-crossed lovers perform to rhythms of eighties classic rock in Rock of Ages. It features HITS BY FAMOUS GLAM METAL BAND SUCH AS WHITESNAKE, JOURNEY, BON JOVI, REO SPEEDWAGON, JEFFERSON STARSHIP, and many more. Set in Los Angeles, aspiring rockers and actresses couple up and break up as they compete and begin to succeed. As the characters mature, the musical ends on a high note with audiences cheering for them.

7:30 p.m. on April 27-30, May 4-7 2 p.m. on April 29-30, May 7

TheatreZone Naples’ Premier Musical Theatre 888-966-3352 x1 www.Theatre.Zone

3/3/23 11:14 AM

2A

Federation Star

JEWISH INTEREST

April 2023

SECOND SE S EC EC CO ON O ND N D

NIGHT NI N IIG GH G HT H T PASSOVER PA P AS A SS S SO S OV O VE V ER E R ATTEMPLESHALOM T TEMPLE SHALLO OM S A AT SEDER SE ED E DE D ER E R Thursday, April 6 at 6:00pm Join us for the richness of tradition, the warmth of community, and a delicious Passover meal!

Catering by Crave Culinaire

Temple members

- $100/person

Non-members

- $125/person

Children 12 & under - FREE Your payment is your reservation.

Deadline to register is March 27.

Sorry, walk-ins cannot be accommodated.

Register online: tinyurl.com/TSSeder2023 or call 239-455-3030 Temple Shalom 4630 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34119

NAPLES COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA 2023 SEASON Saturday, April 22, 2023

3:00pm

The concert will be held at: Moorings Presbyterian Church 791 Harbour Drive, Naples

National Geographic announces premiere date for limited series “A Small Light” Some stood by. She stood up.

W

ASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 15, 2023) – The new limited series “A Small Light” focuses on the inspiring, real-life story of Miep Gies, who played a critical role in hiding Anne Frank and her family during the Nazi occupation in Amsterdam. To honor Miep on what would have been her 114th birthday, National Geographic announced the powerful limited series, produced by ABC Signature and Keshet Studios, will premiere on Monday, May 1, at 9 p.m. (EST) on National Geographic with two back-to-back episodes. New episodes will debut every Monday at 9 and 10 p.m. on National Geographic and will stream the next day on Disney+.

Told with a modern sensibility, “A Small Light” tells the remarkable true story of secretary Miep Gies (Bel Powley), who was a young, carefree and opinionated woman — at a time when opinions got you killed — when her boss, Otto Frank (Liev Schreiber), asked her to help hide his family from the Nazis during WWII. Without hesitation, Miep agreed.

For the next two years, she and her daring and devoted husband, Jan (Joe Cole), with several other everyday heroes, watched over the Frank, van Pels and Pfeffer families hiding in the secret annex.

A life once filled with parties and pints, the series details how Miep’s life changed the moment she said “yes.” From daily food runs to scrounging for ration coupons to selling beloved heirlooms, it took countless selfless sacrifices. In the end, it was Miep who found Anne Frank’s diary and preserved it so that she and Otto could later share it with the world to ensure it served as a testament for generations to come.

Filmed on location in Amsterdam and Prague, “A Small Light” also reveals that in addition to hiding the eight souls in the annex from the Nazis, the brave couple was simultaneously hiding many others in and around Amsterdam with the help of the Dutch Resistance.

Powley’s fierce performance shakes the cobwebs off history and makes Miep’s story feel relevant and timely, forcing audiences to ask themselves what they would have done in Miep’s shoes; and,

in modern times, asking if they would have the courage to stand up to hatred.

The series title comes from something Miep said late in her life: “I don’t like being called a hero because no one should ever think you have to be special to help others. Even an ordinary secretary or a housewife or a teenager can turn on a small light in a dark room.”

Joan Rater and Tony Phelan, creators and executive producers, said, “People may know the story of Anne Frank and her family, but what happened outside the annex walls was just as powerful, inspiring and resonant. When we heard about Miep and Jan’s inherent strength in risking their lives for others during the occupation, we were blown away. “A Small Light” is a true story that should never be forgotten. We hope it leaves a lasting impact on viewers and helps to show the importance of discovering untold stories of the Holocaust and the lessons it continues to teach.”

Additional cast includes Amira Casar, who plays Edith Frank, mother to Margot and Anne; Billie Boullet, who portrays Anne Frank; Ashley Brooke, who plays Anne’s older sister, Margot Frank; Andy Nyman as Hermann van Pels, Caroline Catz as Auguste van Pels, Rudi Goodman as Peter van Pels, and Noah Taylor as Dr. Fritz Pfeffer, who all hid in the annex with the Frank family; Eleanor Tomlinson as Tess, Miep’s best friend; Sally Messham as Bep Voskuijl, Ian McElhinney as Johannes Kleiman and Nicholas Burns as Victor Kugler, Miep’s coworkers; Liza Sadovy as Mrs. Stoppelman; Laurie Kynaston as Casmir; and Sebastian Armesto as Max Stoppelman.

“A Small Light” is produced by ABC Signature and Keshet Studios for National Geographic. Executive producers and writers Joan Rater and Tony Phelan (ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy” and CBS’ “Fire Country”) serve as showrunners, and DGA Award winner and Emmy®-nominated executive producer Susanna Fogel (“The Flight Attendant,” “Cat Person”) directs multiple episodes, including the pilot.

Executive producers are Peter Traugott and Lisa Roos for Keshet Studios, Alon Shtruzman for Keshet International and Avi Nir for Keshet Media Group.

The concert will be followed by a reception for all concert attendees stars of david...continued from page 1A series. He is best known for writing and directing the HBO series “Chernobyl.”

“So Help Me Todd” Featured cello soloist for our April concert Adam Satinsky

Our New Artistic Director Alvin Ho

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! www.naplescommunityorchestra.org $40/Single ticket • Students free of charge

Last September, I very briefly noted the premiere of the CBS drama “So Help Me Todd.” This series stars Marcia Gay Harden as Margaret Wright, a buttoneddown, tough defense attorney.

Her son, Todd, played by co-star Skyler Astin, 30, screws up as a private investigator and loses his license. His mother, however, can legally hire him as an investigator for her law firm and that’s what she does. Wright figures she can keep a close eye on Todd. Todd figures if

he does well at his mother’s firm, he can quickly get back his license.

Reviews have been pretty good, and the series drew a big enough audience that it was renewed for a second season last month.

Harden won a best supporting actress Oscar for playing painter Lee Krasner (1908-1984), in the 2000 movie "Pollock." It’s about the famous abstract expressionist painter Jackson Pollock.

Krasner was married to Pollock.

By coincidence, I recently looked up Krasner’s bio and was surprised to learn that her reputation has soared since “Pollock” opened. Krasner’s paintings now often sell for a million dollars or more.

JEWISH INTEREST

April 2023

Federation Star

3A

Chad Gadya — why a goat?

Why, you may ask, have Jews always celebrated goats?

By Arlene Stolnitz

E

ditor’s note: This is a repeat of this column’s April 2022 article due to its timeliness.

Why? Because they have always lived with goats. In every shtetl, even the poorest family kept a goat to provide milk for the children. Throughout the centuries, Jews have identified with the klor vays tsigele, the small white goat, a familiar figure in Jewish culture. According to folklore, it was not unusual for Jews to have their beloved goat sleep inside the house on a cold night!

Who doesn’t know the light-hearted, but symbolic, “Chad Gadya,” sung in a mix of Aramaic and Hebrew every year at the Passover seder?

Or the beloved “Roshinkez Mit Mandlen-Raisins and Almonds,” especially revered

by Ashkenazi European Jews.

And there is the lesser-known children’s musical game dance, “Yesh Lanu Taish–We Have a Goat.”

Passover will be here soon and a discussion of the symbolism in “Chad Gadya” is appropriate. According to Biblical scripture (Exodus 12:5) the Pesach offering can be either a lamb or a goat. Its sacrifice has come to represent the oppression

of the Jewish people throughout the centuries, much like that of the Israelites’ experience in Egypt.

“Roshinkez” tells the story from Yiddish folklore of a small white goat asleep under a baby’s cradle. Written

by Abraham Goldfaden, the song has become, in modern times, a metaphor for the extinction of European Jewry during the Holocaust.

We also know “the goat” has appeared in well-known works of art and literature.

Many of Chagall’s paintings portray a “goat.” Poems and stories by Shalom Aleichem, Issac Bashevis Singer and I.L. Peretz often include “the goat” in their

literature. I recently read “The This small, useful animal Enchanted Tailor” by Shalom was important in ancient Aleichem, which tells a “shtetl" civilizations, especially in story about the importance of the Fertile Crescent. Goats goats to villagers. were animals of unique As described in the Shalom intelligence, virility and Aleichem story, “...if there is a behavior. Because of their goat in the house, you can have usefulness and hardiness, a glass of milk for the children, the goat is often depicted as you can cook porridge with a symbol of fertility, abunmilk, you can make a milk dance, aggression and good soup for dinner, noodles and luck in many ancient culArlene Stolnitz milk for supper and, besides, tures. It is clear to me that, you can count on a pitcher of sour cream, through the centuries, goats played an a piece of cheese, a bit of butter. Think important role both in household and of it. If we only had a goat! …There is an temple rituals. ancient law that every My interest in goats was piqued Jew must own a goat. when I visited the Yiddish Book Center Let me quote you…” in Amherst, MA. Their logo is a goat, So, back to the and I was curious to know why they beginning…why a had chosen this as their symbol. And goat? Let’s go back all of this led me to the article you are in time. My research reading today. shows that goats have Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sarasota been around as far back Jewish Chorale, is a member of the Jewish as prehistoric times.

Congregation of Venice. A retired educator Goats were the first from Rochester, New York, she has sung in animal to be tamed by choral groups for over 25 years and also sings humans and were being in The Venice Chorale. Her interest in the herded over 9,000 years preservation of Jewish music of all kinds has ago! Earliest remnants led to this series of articles on Jewish Folk of domesticated goats Music in the Diaspora. were found in Iran over 10,000 years ago.

To Our WCA Volunteers Every April during National Volunteer Week, organizations nationwide celebrate and recognize the efforts of their volunteers.

The Women’s n’s Cultural Alliance proudly thanks the hundreds of amazing women who create, organize and facilitate activities for WCA. YOU are key to the success of the outstanding programming that WCA offers to our members.

Board of Directors Women’s Cultural Alliance wcanaples.org

Community of Friendship

4A

Federation Star

JEWISH INTEREST

April 2023

Avoiding trauma at the Seder table Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing old

By Rabbi Barbara Aiello

W

ith the “good dishes” gracing the table, wine glasses gleaming and places set for 26 guests, the annual Passover Seder was, as PopPop pronounced, “ready for prime time.” But in seconds, the tranquility of the evening was disturbed by the shrieks of the two youngest granddaughters.

“It’s my turn to put the parsley on the plates,” said granddaughter Keeley.

“Uh Uh, no way. That’s the job I always do,” was granddaughter Naomi’s response.

“Well, I’m in charge of the parsley this year!” Keeley yelled.

“No way.” Naomi shot back. The girls continued what was escalating into a big fight until Bubby intervened.

“Girls, Girls, this year, like we always do, we’ll be dipping parsley in salt water but this year we have a Sephardic family joining us, so we’ll be dipping celery in vinegar as well. There’s no need to fight.

You both have jobs to do.”

That’s when PopPop looked up from his iPad and commented, “I wish all of our family quarrels could be resolved so easily.

Some of our Seder dinners turned into battle-grounds. Frankly, I don’t look forward to family gatherings so much anymore.”

Bubby agreed. “Remember last Passover, when we got to the Ten Plagues and our son wanted to go around the table a second time to list modern day plagues …”

“Oy vey, what a mess! When politics got into the mix, we almost had a

fistfight at the table! What’s it going to be like this year?

Bubby's and PopPop’s concerns are not unique. In recent years, controversy, particularly political concerns, have dominated traditional family gatherings — so much so that sociology and psychology experts have devoted hours of counseling time and pages in professional journals to the issue of contention around the family table.

According to the online news service, Health Partners, “Scientific research shows that we need healthy relationships in order to be in good health” and, specifically, humans need social support — that special connection with other people “who make you feel loved, heard and cared about.” However, when social support is damaged or even absent, family gatherings like Easter dinner or the Passover Seder can deteriorate into a battleground where old grievances surface, where generational differences provoke misunderstandings and where differing values and opinions can ignite conflict.

Just ask Andrea M. Darcy, whose article “How to Survive a Family Gathering Emotionally Intact,” appeared recently (January 2023) on the Harley Therapy Mental Health Blog. Darcy’s counseling initiatives have resulted in seven steps to diffuse negativity when families come together.

KATZ

New York Deli has arrived in Southwest Florida

New York-style deli sandwiches and more brought right to your door!

Step 1: Show up neutral

Darcy cautions “If there are any lingering disagreements between you and your family members and you show up charged with either anxiety, anger or righteousness,” you have created fertile ground for having a difficult time.

Step 2: Don’t create triangles

Darcy explains that “triangles” is a group dynamics term that “refers to what happens when two people disagree and one person pulls a third bystander into the situation … that creates an “us against them” energy that can snowball into a fullblown argument.” Instead, Darcy advises “There is nothing wrong with disagreeing with someone in your family. But disagree by yourself. “

Step 3: Lower your expectations

Darcy emphasizes that “The less you expect from a family gathering, the more likely you are to enjoy yourself.”

Step 4: Stop judging yourself

Darcy offers the example of the daughter who beat herself up for snapping at her father after he began his usual pattern of hurtful teasing. Alternately, it is less painful to hold reasonable expectations of your family and of yourself, acknowledging that no gathering is perfect.

Step 5: Stick to one time zone

According to Darcy, “The problem with families is that we all go way, way back. And this means we can spend every family gathering noticing what our family members do wrong, ‘just like always.’” A focus on the present rather than past annoyances allows family members to ignore past hurts and slights and enjoy the present moment as best they can.

Step 6: Save it for later

Regarding the cumulative Rabbi Barbara nature of years Aiello of family turmoil, Darcy reminds us that the family gathering is rarely the place to sort out lingering issues “once and for all.” For serious issues, Darcy recommends professional support.

Step 7: When in doubt, use your ears

Darcy believes that listening is key and notes that listening is perhaps the most underrated way to avoid overacting and thus to improve relationships. Rather than nodding one’s head in agreement while thinking about a million other unrelated issues, actively listening requires staying in the “now” and reflecting back certain key phrases and pointed comments that demonstrate that the other person has been heard and understood.

Where families are concerned, conflict is a given. In fact, our Jewish traditions acknowledge that it is normal for family members disagree. As a midrash emphasizes, “Even a father and son, when they sit to study Torah together, become enemies to one another. But they do not move from there until they have become beloved to one another.”

Here’s hoping that none of us leaves the Seder table until we’ve reestablished respect, compassion and the bonds of love.

Note: Link to the complete article by Andrea Darcey: https://www.harleytherapy. co.uk/counselling/family-gathering-tips.htm For 10 years, Rabbi Barbara Aiello served the Aviva Campus for Senior Life as resident rabbi. Her most popular columns are now published in her new book, “Aging Jewishly,” available on Amazon books. Rabbi Barbara now lives and works in Italy, where she is rabbi of Italy’s first Reconstructionist synagogue.

Contact her at rabbi@rabbibarbara.com.

Jewish Congregation of Marco Island Presents

Our 41st Annual Congregational Passover Seider Wednes day, April 5, 2023 Promptly at 6:30 PM

We are proud to announce the addition of the following items to our menu for Passover:

The Haggadah will be read by the attendees, led by Rabbi Mark W. Gross and Cantorial Soloist Hari Jacobsen A Complete Traditional Passover Meal Catered By Mango’s Dockside Bistro

Homemade Gefilte Fish • Carrot Tzimmes

And Members of our Dev oted JCMI Family

We always have:

Matzoh Ball Soup • Brisket • Roast Chicken • Kugel

We are also offering a package that includes all of the above!

We anticipate high demand and limited quantities, and advise ordering well in advance.

As always, please go to katznydeli.com, click on the orange button to see the menu and order, or call (239) 291-8340.

Catering & platters available See our full menu and order online at

KatzNYDeli.com

Entrée Choice of Brisket or Kosher Respectful Entrée Visitors and Guests Welcome

For Passover Seider reservations, please mail this form with your check, MADE PAYABLE TO JCMI, Jewish Congregation of Marco Island, Passover Seider, 991 Winterberry Dr., Marco Island, FL 34145, Or Phone: 239642-0800. Your check or credit card will hold your reservation.

Please indicate your seating preferences.

Adults: .................................................................................................Members - $75.00 Visitors/Guests - $85.00 Children 4-12: ..................................................................................... Members - $35.00 Visitors/Guests - $45.00 Children under 4 are Free

To ensure your seating preference, MAKE YOUR PAID RESERVATIONS EARLY – NO RESERVATIONS ACCEPTED AFTER 3:00PM ON MONDAY, MARCH 24th, 2023 – NO REFUNDS Phone Number

Name Address City, State, Zip

___________________________ # Brisket ______# Kosher Respectful________

Please seat at Table with:________________________________________________________

JEWISH INTEREST

April 2023

Federation Star

5A

“Wear it with pride, the yellow star!”

By Paul R. Bartrop, Professor Emeritus of History, Florida Gulf Coast University

N

inety years ago this month, in April 1933, a massive statement of Jewish self-assertion in the light of Nazi antisemitism was made by Robert Weltsch, the prewar editor of a twice-weekly Berlin Jewish newspaper, the Jüdische Rundschau (Jewish Review).

Born on June 20, 1891, to a longestablished Jewish family in Prague, his father, Theodore Weltsch, was an active member of the Jewish community and played an important administrative role in communal organizations.

Robert Weltsch studied law at the Karl-Ferdinand German University of Prague, where he joined Bar Kochba, a Zionist student association to which many young Jewish intellectuals were attracted. He served as the association’s leader in 1911-1912. Between 1910 and 1914, he published articles in Germanlanguage Zionist newspapers, an activity he continued when serving as an officer on the Russian front in the AustroHungarian army during World War I. After the war, Weltsch became editorin-chief of the Jüdische Rundschau in Berlin, where he would remain until he left Germany in 1938. A committed Zionist, he was keen to develop the idea of a joint Jewish-Arab commonwealth for Palestine, in which statehood would be rarely discussed and never advocated.

One of the reasons behind his opposition to a singular Jewish state in Palestine stemmed from his reaction to any form of nationalism or chauvinism, which he

attributed to the horrors of war. Given this, he was fearful as to where the organized Zionist movement might lead.

Accordingly, he became one of the leading lights of the movement Brit Shalom, which advocated a bi-national Arab-Jewish presence in Palestine focusing on ideals such as political equality, cultural autonomy and socioeconomic coexistence. This led to hostility from some circles within the Zionist movement and, periodically, there were unsuccessful moves to have him removed as editor of the Jüdische Rundschau.

As one who wielded influence within the German Jewish community through the pages of his newspaper, Weltsch saw that he had an important responsibility to somehow accommodate Nazi antisemitic measures while at the same time showing that the Jewish community would not be cowed.

On April 1, 1933, the Nazis organized a boycott of all Jewish shops, banks, offices and department stores in what was arguably the first overtly antisemitic measure adopted by the new Nazi government, and it was a failure.

Weltsch, alert to the possibilities the boycott signified for the future, reacted by publishing an article on April 4, which became famous as one of the earliest Jewish responses to Nazi anti-Jewish persecution. Entitled “Tragt ihn mit Stolz, den gelben Fleck!” (known by its English title as “Wear it with Pride, the Yellow Badge!”), Weltsch’s editorial was a call for the Jews of Germany to recognize the reality of

their situation and confront thoroughly integrated part of their changed situation with German society. Now that the dignity and in solidarity.

Jews were being marked out, He wrote that, in view of he was alerting them to the the new regime, “Today the need to unite in view of what Jews cannot speak except as was now their “difference” Jews. Anything else is utterly from mainstream society — Paul Bartrop senseless. ... We live in a new a metaphoric “yellow star,” so period … indicating that to speak. the world of our previous concepts has During these early years of the Third collapsed. That may be painful for many, Reich, Weltsch made trips to Palestine, but in this world only those will be able reporting back to the Jüdische Rundto survive who are able to look reality in schau on what he saw there. Though the eye.” He continued, in italics, that in unconvinced that Palestine was the right view of the Jewish self-deception that they place for German Jews to live, he tried would always be accepted as Germans, “It to encourage them to leave Germany. is not true that the Jews betrayed Germany.

He was, however, concerned that whatIf they betrayed anyone, it was themselves, ever befell Germany’s Jews would, soon the Jews. Because the Jew did not display enough, extend across all of Europe, so his Judaism with pride, because he tried to any refuge — including Palestine — avoid the Jewish issue, he must bear part of would have to be considered. War, he the blame for the degradation of the Jews.” held, would mean that all German Jews He noted that, during the boycott, “would be lost.” one often saw “windows bearing a large He also acknowledged that, with Magen David, the Shield of David the things getting worse by the day, he would King. It was intended as dishonor.” Given be lucky to escape with his life, something this development, in which “the Jew is he was able to do in September 1938, marked as a Jew” with “the yellow badge,” when he left Germany for Palestine. he now called upon the Jews of Germany He worked there for many years as a to “take it up, the Shield of David, and correspondent for the newspaper Haaretz wear it with pride!” and, in 1945, moved to London as the While the Nazis did not actually newspaper’s European correspondent, require Jews to wear yellow armbands covering the Nuremberg Trials during with the Star of David until September 1945-1946. He remained in London 19, 1941, Weltsch was instead referas a political journalist until his return ring to a German-Jewish community to Jerusalem in 1978, where he died on that had, until that time, seen itself as a December 22, 1982 at age 91.

At just 16-years-old, Abraham Piasecki’s life is uprooted by the Nazi invasion of Poland. From living in the ghetto of Kielce to imprisonment at Auschwitz- Birkenau, Remember brings to life the harrowing true story of a Holocaust Survivor who escaped Nazi captivity five times. This immersive, challenging, and ultimately captivating story of resilience brings us into one man’s memories and asks us to never forget.

Monday, April 17 at 7:00 pm Community Wide Yom HaShoah Program Location: Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center FREE admission. Registration is encouraged at www.jewishnaples.org.

In partnership with

In partnership with

6A

Federation Star

JEWISH INTEREST

April 2023

The best part of Passover

By Chef Dalia

T

he best part of Passover is when it’s over. One of the most special parts of the holiday for me has always been Mimouna, a Moroccan tradition that celebrates the end of Pesach, the return to eating chametz. Mimouna is one of my favorite holidays of the entire year.

After a full week of eating matzo and lots of potatoes, the end of Pesach really feels like freedom as we patiently await the Mimouna (pronounced mee-moo-nah) celebration. In my Moroccan family, we calmly count the minutes for this special occasion to come.

When I was growing up in Israel, the way my family finished Passover was very different from most of my friends’ families. My age group was mostly Ashkenazi Jews and, as the holiday ended, their parents would obediently pack away their Passover dishes for another year. In our small Jaffa apartment, though, something paranormal was happening. My parents — immigrants from Morocco and Spain — were preparing for one of the best parts of our family’s Jewish year, a remarkable celebration called Mimouna.

Mimouna, which falls on the night when Passover ends, is one of Sephardic Judaism’s most beautiful celebrations.

For our family, it was an all-night party.

My mother, dressed in a beautiful kaftan,

would lay out a luxurious spread of Moroccan sweets on our Mimouna table — marzipan pastries, dates and fried dough pancakes dipped in honey, called mufleta, to name just a few. My father would crank up Arabic music on the stereo. We’d swing open the doors and welcome scores of guests — fellow Moroccan Jews, Israelis, Muslims, Christians and a fair share of neighbors who just wanted to see what the excitement was all about.

My mom describes the eve of the Mimouna, where families held a gathering, like an “open house,” where anyone could stop by, enjoy a sweet treat and visit with others. Since it was an open house, everyone was welcome, no questions asked. When the mufflettot (the plural of muffuletta, the yeasted pancake served at Mimouna) were served, blessings for prosperity, fertility, luck and success were offered. Visitors who were single at the time were blessed to find a partner for marriage so that they could build a Jewish home together.

If you’ve never been to a post Passover Mimouna celebration, you have no idea what you’ve been missing. This Moroccan tradition is celebrated by inviting friends and relatives over to enjoy table after table of prepared pastries and sweet treats that hail from North African Jewish cuisine. Traditionally, many of the

cookies are adorned with marzipan flowers and mint leaves.

During Passover, we restrict leavened dough and Mimouna celebrates all the delicious, leavened dough that we return to our dietary repertoire. Traditionally, in my family, we make sfinge for Mimouna, which is a Moroccan donut that we also eat on Hanukkah. We also eat various traditional cookies, some stuffed with dates, almonds, pistachios and chocolate, and others with rose water and coconut.

My family, which loves to bake and cook, is big on fancy presentation, so Mimouna ends up showcasing a plentiful spread of the most beautiful desserts.

However, the most popular dish served on this night is a thin yeast pancake called mufleta, which is eaten spread with butter and honey. Mufleta is the most favorite part of the celebration, and the Mimouna simply wouldn’t be complete without it.

Mimouna is first and foremost about opening up your home and, no matter how many people show up, there’s always plenty of room and food for everyone. That’s part of the sweet magic of Mimouna. There are no formal invitations, and food is abundant and seemingly endless. The traditional greeting at Mimouna is Tirbah u’tissad (May you prosper and succeed), and it seems that

Mufleta Recipe

to 10 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture, remaining water, salt and 4 cups flour. Gradually add enough remaining flour to make dough slightly softer than regular bread dough. On a lightly floured surface, knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.

3. Heat an ungreased large cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Ingredients Yeast 3 cups warm water 1 tsp. sugar 1 Tbsp. salt About 7½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour About 1 cup vegetable oil for dipping Melted butter for drizzling Honey for drizzling Instructions 1. Dissolve the yeast in ½ cup water. Stir in the sugar and let stand until foamy, 5

2. Divide the dough into 40 egg-sized balls.

The traditional way is to grab the mass of dough and squeeze the desired amount between a forefinger and thumb, then twist and pinch off the protruding ball. Dip and roll the balls in the oil to coat, place on a flat surface and let stand for 30 minutes.

Jewish 20

-40 year

olds!

The Jewish Young Professionals of Greater Naples invite you to come socialize!

Please email or call Renee’ to be added to the roster. rbialek@jewishnaples.org 239-263-4205

Jewish Young Professionals

Activities include: • Happy Hour We wa • Game Night n y our su t to hear • Movie Night g and id gestions • Shabbat Services e upcom as for • Volunteering ing ev ents!

• Holiday Parties • Zoom Meet & Greets • and more!

OF GREATER NAPLES

Personal Chef Dalia Hemed can be reached at daliahemed@msn.com. the atmosphere of wealth and success hovers over every Mimouna.

On Thursday night, April 13, I am going to host a Mimouna celebration — a traditional Israeli Mimouna fest to celebrate the end of Passover exactly like I use to do in Israel. Come, listen to traditional music, connect with friends and, of course, eat mufleta, the Moroccan crepe-like pancakes dipped in honey.

Drop by if you want to join in the fun!

Even if you can’t get to my house, Israel or Morocco to join in one of the many community parties, you can get in on the Mimouna celebrations by trying your hand at mufleta. It takes a bit of practice to make perfectly but are easy to make.

4. On an oiled flat surface and using oiled hands, flatten the balls into 1/8-inch-thick rounds. Cook the dough rounds until golden brown on the bottom, about 2 minutes. Turn and cook until golden and cooked through, about 1 minute. Cover the mufletas with a kitchen towel until serving to keep soft.

Eat warm, drizzled with butter and honey.

Community Passover Seder Naples Jewish Congregation

Wednesday, April 5, 2023 – 5:00pm Cypress Woods Country Club 3523 Northbrook Drive, Naples

Traditional Passover Dinner Gefilte fish, matzo ball soup, roasted chicken, etc.

$50 Members/Family • $60 Guests/Non-Members • $18 Kids 12 & under

Order online at naplesjewishcongregation.org or mail checks to NJC, PO Box 111994 Naples, FL 34108

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION WA RM • R EF OR M • A F F OR D A B L E • A D ULT

Federation Star

April 2023

1

FACT: Every

Passover we open the door for Elijah, the Hebrew prophet whose unseen presence is felt helping people Throughout the world.

2

FACT: We invite

Elijah in to drink from his cup on our Seder table.

3

FACT: He never drinks.

What’s up with that?

4

FACT: The cup isn’t

actually for Elijah. It’s for us. To remind us of all the times we’ve been helped by his unseen hand, and to inspire us to return the favor.

ELIJAH.Fact TEETOTALER. or fiction?

PLEASE GIVE TO THE 2023 ANNUAL COMMUNITY CAMPAGIN AND EXTEND ELIJAH’S TOUCH TO YOUR JEWISH COMMUNITY AT HOME AND AROUND THE WORLD THIS PASSOVER. Fact: Elijah would approve.

7A

8A

Federation Star

JEWISH INTEREST

April 2023

Dignity for the body, peace for the soul

By Malka Forshner, SW Florida Chevra Kadisha

M The Cardozo Society is formed as a way to network the many existing and new Jewish attorneys in our legal community. The Jewish Federation of Greater Naples continues to reach out to raise awareness through this association of Jewish attorneys promoting professionalism, cooperation, and identification with our Jewish community.

For more information contact Joshua Bialek at

jbialek@porterwright.com

OF GREATER NAPLES

‘Season’ May Be Over Soon But MCA Goes On All Summer Check out at these ‘year-round’ activities Sports

Learn and Discuss

Bocce

Book Discussion Group

Kayak Pickleball Walking Group Food Weekly Breakfast Wednesday Lunch Virtual Breakfast Dine Arounds

y first encounter with Chevra Kadisha (Jewish Burial Society) was when my mother passed away 24 years ago. I was clueless. All I knew was that “they” would take care of “everything.” And they did, quickly, quietly and professionally. She was buried according to our age-old traditions — simple shrouds, no makeup, no fancy casket, in-ground burial — as our ancestors have done since the very first Jew, Abraham, purchased the field of the Machpela in Hebron to bury his wife, Sara.

Fast forward to 10 years ago, when I was asked to attend a training session for prospective members of the Chevra Kadisha — a job I never thought I’d do but remembered four Jewish women did for my mother somewhere in the Greater Washington, D.C. area. Now it was my turn to do the mitzvah.

So, what’s the deal with Jewish burial?

We all really need to know, since there is a shockingly high rate of cremation, not just in the population at large but within our Jewish community. One or two generations ago, this was unheard of. A generation of Jews was beyond shocked with grief when they heard the unfathomable report of the crematoriums of Nazi Germany. The notion of doing that to one of our own was unthinkable. Reform, conservative, orthodox or unaffiliated, we could not, would not, entertain such a plan.

But every generation has its challenges, and one of ours is insipid media pressure to consider the cremation option as 1) more ecological, 2) more suited to the demographics of parents and children not living in the same geographic area, 3) cleaner and quicker, and 4) cheaper (that last argument is the only valid one, but a myriad of Jewish organizations will help with that).

Fast forward to just a month ago, when we hosted an extensive training session for current and prospective members of this organization, right here, for residents of Collier, Lee, Charlotte and Sarasota

counties. We were educated by the Florida representative of the National Association of Chevra Kadisha, Rabbi Jay Lyons (Nasck.org), a man of vast knowledge and sensitivity on the topic of Jewish burial and all it entails.

Why do you need to know about our organization, especially if you’ve never had the notion to perform this particular mitzvah? (You should know it’s the only mitzvah called “chesed shel emes” – “the kindness of truth,” since we can never expect to get the favor returned) You need to know about us because you’ll need our services. It’s for every Jew, and you shouldn’t assume that it happens automatically.

We are here for every Jew, and we hope that all your loved ones (and you) have the proper paperwork in place so that, when the time comes, there will be no concerns or delays about how everything should be done.

To quote a brochure written by the renowned Doron Kornbluth, author of “Cremation or Burial:” “Why should I care if I am dead anyway? Our bodies are a gift, and we have no right to hurt ourselves in life or death. Cremation is often chosen due to social or cultural influences based on misconceptions about its impact on our family, our soul, our environment and our Jewish traditions ... On a deeper … level, when a soul departs from its body … it has a much greater understanding of the spiritual implications of cremation. Looking “down” at its body, there is nothing a soul wants more than a proper Jewish burial. No matter how religious you were or weren’t, choosing burial means: you were born a Jew and want to be remembered as a Jew.” Do you need help with this decision or finding the proper paperwork to make sure everything will go smoothly at the right time? Do you want reading material? We’re here to assist you in attaining dignity for the body and peace for the soul. Email us at swfloridachevrakadisha@ gmail.com.

Current Issues Discussion Group Israel Discussion Group Travelogue Series Games Poker Bridge

Go to: www.mcanaples.org or scan the QR code for additional information.

PLEASE HELP US BUILD COMMUNITY! Publishing the Federation Star would not be possible without our advertisers.

Please patronize our advertisers and tell them you saw their ad in the Federation Star.

ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

April 2023

Federation Star

9A

FIDF holds emergency briefing with search and rescue delegation in Turkey

K

ahramanmaraş, Turkey (Feb. 15, greatly boosts morale, as soldiers feel sup2023) – As the Israel Defense port from across oceans. FIDF’s donors Forces’ (IDF) humanitarian delthereby were personally connected to the egation concluded its mission to rescue soldiers on the ground in Turkey. individuals from the destruction and treat The 230-member medical delegation, the injured following the Feb. 6 earthincluding members of the IDF Medical quake that devastated Turkey and Syria, Corps and Ministry of Defense, landed Friends of the IDF (FIDF) yesterday held in Turkey on Feb. 7 to provide aid to a special live emergency briefing on their the tens of thousands injured. The team heroic efforts. The briefing, live from the consisted of highly trained officers and earthquake site, was given by Col. Elad soldiers from the IDF Medical Corps, Edri, commander of the IDF Search and search and rescue personnel from the Rescue Brigade and commander of the Home Front Command, and doctors, Humanitarian Medical Aid Delegation in nurses and paramedics from the Ministry Turkey. Major (Res.) Dr. Daniel King, an of Health. On Friday, Feb. 10, the medical intensive-care-unit specialist at the IDF’s delegation, led by the deputy IDF surgeon field hospital, also joined the briefing. general and the head of the IDF’s Medical In the briefing, Edri and King disDepartment, took on the enormous task cussed the IDF’s tremendous efforts of reopening a local hospital in the city to save lives and re s c u e p e o p l e trapped underneath the rubble of destroyed buildings, and the enormous undertaking of treating the countless wounded victims.

King reinforced the impact support from across seas has had on Photo credit: Courtesy of FIDF the soldiers, who at a moment’s notice left their daily lives of Kahramanmaraş that was abandoned to provide aid. during the earthquake.

"It’s very hard to be so far away from The group treated more than 180 our homes, sleeping on the floor, with no patients, including 10 injured in Syria water,” said King during the briefing. “To and brought over to Turkey, with stateknow that people out there around the of-the-art Israeli medical equipment and world, Friends of the IDF, are supportadvanced technique. Approximately 140 ing us, thinking about us and understand doctors, nurses, a pharmacist, an X-ray what we are doing, is deeply important.” technician, paramedics and medical For the mission, which Israel dubbed logistics personnel constituted the team.

“Operation Olive Branches,” the IDF The medical delegation departed Turkey sent nearly 400 specialists in two teams Feb. 15, leaving supplies and equipment — the search and rescue delegation and to the Turkish medical authorities. the medical delegation.

Since the teams arrived in Turkey, The first group consisted of 150 FIDF was in constant contact with the personnel, led by the IDF Home Front IDF about needs on the ground. Olive Command. Several hours after the Branches’ medical delegation asked 7.8-magnitude earthquake devastated for FIDF’s support to fund lifesaving the region, the IDF unit departed Israel medical equipment for use at the hospifor Turkey, part of an enormous, intertal, including portable X-ray machines, national rescue effort. The brigade has defibrillators, ventilators, EKG machines, played a critical role in 31 major humaniultrasound machines and CPR airway tarian missions worldwide after disasters suction devices. IDF also requested struck, including the 2021 collapse of a equipment for the field, such as inflathigh-rise building in Surfside, Florida. able tents to create a sterile environment The soldiers in the delegation are for surgical procedures and coolers to among Israel’s elite and experienced transport blood. experts in rescue operations. As of Feb. About Friends of 13, after six full days on the ground, the IDF delegation concluded its activities the Israel Defense and returned to Israel. It rescued 19 Forces (FIDF): FIDF was established in 1981 by a group people from the earthquake zone; the of Holocaust survivors as a 501(c)(3) notyoungest was 2 years old and the eldest a for-profit organization with the mission of 65-year-old man. transforming the lives of the young men and The Search and Rescue Brigade is an women of the IDF who protect Israel and FIDF-adopted unit. Adopted brigades Jews worldwide through empowering edureceive multifaceted support from FIDF. cational, financial, well-being and cultural The program benefits a brigade’s soldiers initiatives. FIDF proudly supports soldiers with funds dedicated to both their finanbefore, during and after their service, as well cial welfare and emotional well-being. as families of fallen soldiers and wounded It also gives units direct connections to veterans. www.fidf.org. their donors in the United States, which

Wishing You & Yours All the Joys of the Passover Holiday May You Be Blessed with Good Health, Peace, Prosperity and Togetherness on Pesach and Always!

Please come visit our

Garden of Remembrance

Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens 525 11th Avenue North | Naples, FL 34108

239-597-3101

www.HodgesNaplesMG.com AN EGALITARIAN PROGRESSIVE CONGREGATION MEMBER OF THE UNITED SYNAGOGUE OF CONSERVATIVE JUDAISM

FREE FIRST YEAR DUES

for ALL NEW MEMBERS! JOIN US TODAY AT

239.434.1818

1 4 5 9 P I N E RI DGE ROAD, NAPLES, FL BethTikvahNaples.org

10A

Federation Star

ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

April 2023

Jewish National Fund-USA’s Breakfast for Israel Explores the Legacy of David Ben-Gurion

N

aples, Fla., Feb. 23, 2023 — On Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023, nearly 200 philanthropists and pro-Israel community members in Naples attended Jewish National Fund-USA’s Breakfast for Israel at The Baker Museum at Artis— Naples. This annual signature event in the region celebrated the upcoming 75th anniversary of Israel’s Independence.

“We are blessed to have good homes and communities to return to, places to work and schools to send our children,” said Nancy Kaplan, member of the organization’s Naples Board of Directors, in her remarks at the breakfast. “Our synagogues and Hebrew schools are vibrant and alive with young people and small children — the next generation — who look to their own futures with hope and wonder. Many of them will one day get to go to Israel to visit, study or live. Along the way, Jewish National Fund-USA will be there to connect them to their eternal homeland, a place we, as family, are entrusted to ensure remains secure and vital. There can only be one constant in our lives and theirs; that Israel maintains its existence, that the great hope for peace is realized, and that our people will always have a Jewish homeland to turn to when in need.”

The event featured Alon Ben-Gurion, the grandson of the state of Israel’s first prime minister, David Ben-Gurion. His keynote speech received a standing ovation and addressed the legacy of David Ben-Gurion as a statesman, father and

grandfather; how he is actively promoting development in Israel’s Negev Desert, working to make the region bloom; and how his grandfather’s vision is being brought to life through Jewish National Fund-USA’s game-changing initiatives in Israel’s north and south.

Cary Barbor, a reporter with WGCU, Southwest Florida’s NPR station, attended the event to interview Ben-Gurion about Israel’s role in the world as the country prepares to reach this incredible milestone, as well as his thoughts about the rise in antisemitism.

Ben-Gurion quoted his grandfather’s vision in the interview: “Our historic yearning has been for a new society built on liberty, equality, tolerance, mutual aid and love for man,” he said. “A society without exploitation and discrimination, slavery or tyranny. Our stance in the world will not be determined by our supposed material wealth nor by our military might but by the moral light of our understanding. And, although there are some shadows, among them heavy shadows in our lives now, we have the grounds to believe that we can be an example nation.”

Other highlights from the event included announcements regarding the organization’s not-to-be-missed Israel@75 mission to Israel in April, Jewish National Fund-USA’s 2023 Global Conference for Israel, taking place in Denver from Nov. 30 to Dec. 3, and that the organization

Josh Mellits, JNF-USA director, Western Florida and Orlando; Neil Braverman, member, JNF-USA Naples Board of Directors; and David Braverman, president, Naples Board of Directors

Looking for change? Real Estate in Naples is thriving. Let me help you list your home and find your dream home in Paradise!

Rabbi Adam Miller, member, JNF-USA Naples Board of Directors; Stuart Price, member, JNF-USA Naples Board of Directors; Alon Ben-Gurion; and Estelle Price, member, JNF-USA Naples Board of Directors. Photo credit: Ted Epstein

Chellie Doepke

Premiere Plus Realty Co.

239-877-1722

seachell2@hotmail.com • www.sells-naples.com www.facebook.com/chelliedoepkerealtor

Making Real Estate Dreams REALITY

had reached its ambitious $1 billion fundraising goal for its One Billion Dollar Roadmap for the Next Decade initiative 10 months ahead of schedule.

For more information or to learn about future events in Naples, contact Joshua Mellits, director, Western Florida and Orlando at jmellits@jnf.org or call 941-462-1330 x865.

About Jewish National Fund-USA

organization for Israel that supports critical environmental and nation-building activities in Israel’s north and south. Through its One Billion Dollar Roadmap for the Next Decade, JNF-USA is developing new communities in the Galilee and Negev, connecting the next generation to Israel, and creating infrastructure and programs that support ecology, individuals with special needs and heritage site preservation. Learn more at jnf.org.

JNF-USA is the leading philanthropic

focus floral Weekly, custom, fresh arrangements for your home or office that make a statement & focus on beauty.

Barbara Samaniego, Floral Stylist

(239) 248-0409 • www.focusfloral.com

Keep Your Rooms In Bloom

COMMENTARY

April 2023

Federation Star

11A

Justice, mercy and humility Rabbi Ammos Chorny

A

couple weeks ago, a congregant confessed having a very difficult time contending with the laws of slavery outlined in the current cycle of Torah readings and, of course, he got me thinking and searching for ways to better relate to the subject.

That is how I came across a remarkable passage in the Mishnah Torah — Maimonides’ code of Jewish law — in which he goes out of his way to state that notwithstanding the fact that the law of the Torah may permit something (the passage concerns slavery, specifically the treatment of the non-Jewish slave), a good Jew would much rather follow a more merciful path. He explains that “even though this is the law, the quality of mercy and the ways of wisdom teach one should be merciful and pursue righteousness and not act unjustly … as cruelty and harshness are the ways of [the world],

while Israel — who were taught by the Holy One through the beneficence of the Torah — must be merciful toward all.”

There is a prominent and well-documented dictum in our tradition that suggests that the importance of “going beyond the requirements of the law,” ought to be applied primarily to matters of ethics and morals. However, as we set out on our yearly quest for special products for Passover, it is clear that, over the past few decades, the prevalence of glatt kosher products — termed mehadrin — seem to have proliferated beyond all expectations.

Not only can one find glatt kosher meat, but also fish, vegetables and even water.

This is strange, considering that the label “glatt" can only be applied to the way in which meat is examined after slaughtering. Under a certain light, we can understand the term has come to mean “extra strict supervision,” or the supervision by rabbis that are more trusted in certain circles. But the phenomenon has reached the point where, although one would be happy to eat products simply labeled “kosher,” it has become harder and harder to find them.

If people want to add an extra dimension of stringency to their religious

practice, that is their right, but I wonder would do well remembering the words of the prophet Micah: “What does the why this extra strictness is confined only Lord require of you? — only to do justo ritual rather than to ethical behavior.

Whenever I hear about “glatt,” I recall tice, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). We must Rabbi Heschel’s comment that we need a “mashgiah” (supervisor/overseer) not judge our actions not against a checklist of laws, but against the greater demands just for food but for other things such as lashon hara (gossip) as well. of justice, mercy and humility. Without the foundation of Torah upon which In rabbinic literature, we have the conwe can build the cept of “midat has‘good life,’ our sidut” (the quality actions are little of piety) in which “What does the Lord require of an individual goes more than rote, beyond the strict you? — only to do justice, to love lacking any moral passion. requirements of mercy and to walk humbly with law to fulfill the Let it be God’s your God” (Micah 6:8) will that, during Torah’s injunction the forthcoming to “keep the way days of Passover, of the Lord by doing what is just and right...” (Genesis as we remember the plight of our ancestors in Egypt, we find the inspiration 18:19). The truly pious person will not only do what the law requires but will to bring to bear Maimonides’ lesson and realize that following the “statutes want to know what justice and righteousness demand of him or her. of righteousness and mercy toward all,” the beneficence of Torah can ensure we All too often, observant people look eliminate “cruelty and harshness from upon Judaism as a series of laws guiding the world.” them on what to do and what to avoid, making them complacent — feeling they Chag Kasher v’Sameach! have done what is required. But the truth Rabbi Ammos Chorny serves at Beth Tikvah. is that such conduct is not sufficient. We

The courage to have a real Seder Rabbi Howard S. Herman DD

E

very year, as Jews, we are exhorted to tell and retell the story of our slavery in Egypt and of our Exodus from that slavery to freedom. So, we sit down to a Seder every year and we tell the story. We do it with narrative, poetry, music, art, culinary cues and rituals. We do it as families and with friends. We do it together as communities and congregations. We do it with Jews and non-Jews.

We invite “all who are hungry” to come and eat. We add new rituals and texts updating and exploring modern versions of the same hatred, distain and prejudice our people experienced by narrowminded rulers in Egypt.

Never once, in all the history of Judaism, did any of the rabbis or sages or leaders of the Jewish people ever say, “if any of the Passover story makes you feel bad you shouldn’t tell it.” They never said, “alter the story so that it gives you a positive feeling about who you are.” They never said, “we have to change the focal points of what we are ‘sedering’ about, so that we should feel good about ourselves.”

They never said any of these things for a whole host of reasons: Firstly, the truth

You are asked to put yourself in the of history is the truth of history. We need place of the Jewish slave and make it seem to know the truth so that we can do difas if you, yourself, were redeemed from ferently in our world. slavery. In doing this, we try to feel the Secondly, they intuitively knew pain and the distress. For centuries, Jewish that you can’t legislate feelings. Whatleaders have told us to do this because it ever someone is going to feel, they are was hard, because it was painful. That is going to feel, whatever that is. We don’t one of the ways we learn. In all the history make judgement calls on feelings, they of Judaism, we are never told we have to simply are what they are. Our feelings have a way of helping us explore who we are and grow Whitewashing, and altering history … from there. serves no educational purpose whatsoever.

Thirdly, the leaders of the Jewish people, in comtell the story from the Pharaoh’s point of manding us to tell the story over and over, view, where he might have a point about knew that, if we didn’t reprise it year after losing free labor. year, it would disappear in future generaLearning comes in a variety of fortions and it is too much an important part mulations. My mother used to say, when of our history to allow that to happen.

I put my hand on a hot stove, “I guess We are living in a time in Florida you’ve ‘learned” to never do that again.” when our civic leaders and legislators are not only asking but telling us we need to change the narrative about Black history and slavery. We need to make ourselves and our students feel good about who we are and proud of our American heritage.

I don’t know this for a fact, but most people I have spoken to tell me that, after sitting at a Seder, they feel pretty good about themselves as Jews and as human beings. The Seder exhorts us to “know the heart of the stranger, because you, too, were strangers in the land of Egypt.”

Read the current and previous editions of the Federation Star online at www.jewishnaples.org

Just because a subject is difficult psychologically and emotionally doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be taught — and taught from the point of view of truth.

The way we alter a Seder is by adding the plight of modern-day oppressed people; not by taking out what happened in the past. Whitewashing, and altering history, as civic leaders and legislators here in Florida are trying to do, serves no educational purpose whatsoever. I am not even certain it even allows people to feel better about themselves. Feeling good about yourself is important but it is not a mandatory part of the quotient of learning. I am all in, for people feeling positive about themselves, but that, in and of itself, doesn’t bring about real sustainable change nor knowledge.

The philosophy of the Seder does.

A zissen Pesach to you.

Rabbi Howard S. Herman DD serves at Naples Jewish Congregation.

Wollman, Gehrke & Associates

Proud Supporter of the 2023 Jewish Book Festival

Estate Planning • Wills & Trusts • Probate Administration

(239) 435-1533 | Probate-Florida.com

12A

Federation Star

COMMENTARY

April 2023

Are we celebrating too soon?

Rabbi Fishel Zaklos

T

here’s a classic Jewish joke about when a censor taker went to the Goldstein house.

“Does Louis Goldstein live here?” he asked.

“No,” replied Goldstein.

“Well, then, what is your name?”

“Louis Goldstein.”

“Wait a minute, didn’t you just tell me that Goldstein doesn’t live here?”

“Ach,” said Goldstein. “You call this living?”

I’ve been thinking about Louis. I’ve also been thinking, why do we have a huge holiday that only celebrates the very beginning of an extremely long journey?

Passover is all about the Jews leaving Egypt, and the big miracles G-d made for our ancestors to escape that slavery. But the whole point in leaving Egypt was to get to and settle the Land of Israel and, ultimately, build the Holy Temple. When the Jews left Egypt, as miraculous as it was, they still had a very long journey

ahead. They knew they were about to trek predictable. Moses was about to lead them into what must’ve felt like a neveracross the desert with their children and ending journey. elderly, face a lack of food and water as But the Jewish people took that first well as wild animals, snakes and attacks step and, every year for 3,335 years, from multiple enemies. When they’d we’ve been celebrating that start with the finally arrive in Israel, they’d have to work very elaborate holiday of Passover. to settle each city and town while fighting Because Passover isn’t about the conoff frequent invaders — and only then struction of the temple; it’s about the would they start to build the temple. journey towards it. Passover celebrates If you’re counting, that’s a 487-year that first step out of slavery and into freejourney from the time they left Egypt dom, then all the little steps along the way. until the completion of the first temple It’s a powerful perspective on life; an attiby King Solomon. Forty of those years tude that changes were spent waneverything. dering the desFreedom is dancing We’re all on a ert, the next 436 journey for our had the Jewish between the raindrops whole life. We people busy setand enjoying the journey have many goals tling the land and we’re trying to dealing with the you chose to set out on. achieve, whether invader problem, it’s starting a famuntil King David ily, growing a successful business or finally secured things enough for King becoming a better person — and these Solomon to start building. Is it not too things take time. If we push off happiness soon to celebrate when they barely started until we finally make it to the end, we’d all year one? be like Louis Goldstein who never gets to Let’s imagine for a moment how enjoy what he has in life because he’s too overwhelming it must have been for the busy thinking it could be better.

Jews who left Egypt, knowing what was Passover teaches us to stop and celahead of them. All they’d known until ebrate every little milestone. Celebrate the then was slavery in Egypt and, while slavday you decided to break free of an old ery is no fun, at least it was familiar and

habit. Celebrate the day you did it just a little less than before. Celebrate when you set out on a new job. Celebrate each new thing you learn and every nice conversation along the way. Freedom is dancing between the raindrops and enjoying the journey you chose to set out on.

And remember, journeys have ups and downs. Life wasn’t all roses and peaches in the desert; the Jewish nation suffered through many low points. Just as we learn to celebrate the highs, we learn to have patience with ourselves and forgive the more difficult moments as we continue facing forward, one step at a time.

Today, when our world feels dominated by adversarial forces, life's journey may feel particularly overwhelming. And, while we need to address these issues, they need not prevent us from remembering how far we've come as a nation. We have thriving Jewish communities and can step foot on the holy soil of Israel after a (relatively) short plane ride (just ask one of our Naples family members who went on the Israel trip with us last month).

We have so much to celebrate!

This Passover, may we all learn to celebrate our journeys and find happiness in every step along the way.

Rabbi Zaklos Fishel serves at Chabad Jewish Center of Naples.

Standing at the sea Rabbi Adam F. Miller

O

ne of the most powerful images we have ingrained in our minds is that of our ancestors standing at the Sea of Reeds (those who attended People of the Book learned that “Red Sea” is a mistranslation). It is an image shaped in part by retelling the Exodus story at Passover each year as we sit around the Seder table. That visual is brought into focus with help from films like “The 10 Commandments” and “Prince of Egypt.”

In your own mind, you can easily imagine the Israelites standing there

with Charlton Heston, OK Moses, at the edge of the sea. They are anxious and restless, aware that Pharoah’s chariots are closing in. If you watch the films, Moses lifts his staff — praying that the waters will part. In the Rabbinic tradition, the waters did not part at first. Only when a man named Nachshon bravely enters the waters, believing they will part, does the sea actually split.

Either way, with the waters now separated, the Israelites rush across. Just as the last of the Israelites crosses, the waters crash down on the Egyptians, who drown as their mired chariots strand them in the sea.

Exhausted, yet still exuberant, Miriam and the women led a celebration throughout the Israelite camp. Men and women danced and sang, grateful for their freedom.

Standing at the sea, everyone was part of the people Israel. No one asked what

A. Stephen Kotler BOARD CERTIFIED SPECIALIST IN WILLS, TRUSTS AND ESTATES

• Medicaid Planning • Elder Law and Special Needs Planning

of unity that we experienced during tribe they were from, or their ancestral the Exodus. heritage. All were accepted, and that has Instead of seeking out ways to differbeen the theme of Passover — we seek out entiate ourselves — to put up walls and freedom on behalf of all Jews everywhere boundaries — we should remember the without qualification.

When we learned of Russian Jews message that we read each year in the Passover Haggadah. Each one of us is called to who were refused the right to be Jewish imagine that we were there in the land of or to leave the Soviet Union, we rallied Egypt, standing to the cause of in the shoes of the Refusniks. … there are no “good Jews;” When it came our ancestors.

We realize at to light that there are no “bad Jews;” that moment there were Jews there are no half-Jews that there are in Ethiopia no “good Jews;” who sought to or quarter-Jews. return to Israel, there are no There are just Jews … “ b ad Je w s ; ” we provided there are no the resources half-Jews or quarter-Jews. There are for them to reach the Holy Land. Like just Jews — those individuals who our ancestors, we did not ask “Who is actively identify as being part of the a Jew? How Jewish are you?” We helped people Israel. because they said they were Jews.

Passover is our holiday of freedom.

Our world is full of labels and disWe joyfully celebrate, grateful that the tinctions. On Facebook, one finds the Israelites were freed from bondage and descriptions: Jew, liberal Jew, reform Jew, oppression under Pharaoh. This year, conservative Jew, secular Jew and orthomay we also free ourselves from the dox Jew, and that is just a sampling. In our labels that bind, opening our minds so conversations about famous individuals, we talk about whether someone has one that we may embrace all of our Jewish brothers and sisters simply as Jews. In Jewish parent or distant Jewish relatives. this way we will be one people — united At a time when the debate in Israel over in our faith, our heritage and our role as “who is a Jew?” heats up again and our divisions are widening with tensions God’s partners called to make our world whole and holy. rising, we need to remember the feeling

• Estate Planning and Probate

Kotler Law Firm P.L. (239) 325-2333

999 VANDERBILT BEACH ROAD, SUITE 200, NAPLES, FL 34108

STAY CONNECTED Visit www.jewishnaples.org

SYNAGOGUE NEWS

April 2023

Federation Star

13A

www.chabadnaples.com / 239.262.4474

CHABAD JEWISH CENTER OF NAPLES

Passover 2023 Rabbi Fishel Zaklos

A

re you looking for a Seder that is not too long, easy to follow and has a meaningful and relevant message? Great food and company, traditions explained and lots of joyous Passover spirit? Then the Chabad of Naples Community Seder is perfect for you. We will hold our very popular first night Passover Seder. This family event is always a sell-out, so be sure to reserve your seats soon. Call the office at 239-2624474 for reservations or reserve online at www.chabadnaples.com/passover.

If you know of someone who needs assistance with Passover, please let us know how we can help.

Calendar 2023

If you didn't receive your special calendar that was sent out last month, please notify the office and we will make sure you get it.

Adult education

Our season of adult education has been amazing, with big turnouts and great learning with the two courses: Defining the Divine and Booksmart. We continue with the Hebrew reading class every Thursday and a Wednesday parsha class.

Come join us!

Hebrew reading

Ever wished you could follow along with more of the prayers in synagogue? Have your “Baruch Atahs” gotten a little rusty since your bar/bat/mitzvah? Join us every Thursday evening to learn how to read Hebrew! The instruction is peppered with insights and explanations on the meanings of the prayers, to enrich your understanding and make your attendance at services more meaningful. Call the office for more details.

Men’s Club

Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m., the Men’s Club offers meaningful conversation and Torah classes. Call the office for more details.

Rabbi Fishel gives a parsha class to which men and women are invited, also on Wednesdays, at 11:45 a.m.

The Big Build has begun!

Chabad of Naples and Preschool of the Arts has launched a capital campaign

Our Superstar staff! - We are fortunate to have a talented and committed team of superstars, working daily to enrich the community. to extend the campus, thus increasing our facilities to include much-needed additional preschool and Hebrew School classrooms, expanded summer camp and new spaces for community events.

During phases 1 and 2, we raised $4 million. We're getting there, but we need your help to complete phase 3 and our goal of $6 million.

Now that the drawings have been submitted to the City, we await the building permits, which should take about two more months, and then we can break ground.

The times are exciting, but we need your help to allow us to reach the goal.

To learn more about dedication opportunities, please call our office or email Rabbi Fishel (rabbi@chabadnaples. com). We would love to discuss the beautiful opportunities to honor a loved one and invest in the Jewish future of Naples through this momentous project.

Visit NaplesBigBuild.com for more information. Every donation will go towards completing phase 3 and bringing us to The Big Build finish line!

very popular. The Torah service begins at 11 a.m. and includes the Rabbi’s insights during the Torah reading, which always have a contemporary, meaningful and relevant message. Kiddush luncheon follows.

Minyan

If you have a yahrzeit or need to say Kaddish, we are always here to help make a minyan during the week. We are grateful to those who help us with this minyan service when called.

Chabad Naples community care

Chabad of Naples has a special committee of professionals and lay volunteers who are available and trained to visit anyone in need. If you know someone who would appreciate a visit, especially before the High Holidays, please call 239-261-0772.

Flying challah

Every Friday, we send a challah to someone in need or celebrating a birthday, or just because. You can nominate someone.

Call the office for more details.

Lag B'omer celebration

Tuesday night at 6 p.m., join us for a family-friendly, delicious BBQ in honor of Lag B'omer! Crafts and s’mores for the kids …

Shabbat and Kiddush

Shabbat services at Chabad Naples are

• Autoimmune Disease Treatment • Advanced Cataract Surgery • Clear Lens Exchange Surgery Vitamin D (Coimbra Protocol) • Implantable Contact Lens Surgery • Facial Harmonization Dysport® • Cornea Surgery • Dry Eye Therapy Botox Cosmetic® • Glaucoma Care and Surgery Facial Fillers • LASIK PDO Threads

What a great turnout for our cooking demo.

77 8TH STREET SOUTH • NAPLES, FL 34102 239.325.2015 • GINSBERGEYE.COM

14A

Federation Star

SYNAGOGUE NEWS

April 2023

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION

www.naplesjewishcongregation.org / 239.431.3858

Celebrating Pesach Charles Flum President

P

esach is one of several holidays during which we give thanks to God. In this case, we are thankful for the deliverance from Egypt, a moment which has defined many aspects of Judaism for thousands of years. The holiday actually has four names: Zman Cherutainu (Season of our Freedom), Chag Hapesach (Festival of the Pascal Lamb), Chag Hamatzot (Holiday of Matzah) and Chag HaAviv (Holiday of Spring).

Originally, Pesach was two festivals.

The oldest is Chag Hapesach. When Jews were still a nomadic people, they celebrated the beginning of spring with an animal sacrifice. Chag Hamatzot was a spring festival to celebrate the beginning of the grain harvest. Before cutting the grain, they would discard all the fermented dough. In time, the two became one as the Exodus was celebrated in the spring.

A Pesach joke

A Jewish airplane manufacturer had just built a new type of airplane. The test pilot got inside the plane and taxied down the runway. Just before he took off, the wings of the plane fell off and it was back to the drawing board. Months later, the test pilot revved the engine of the new plane,

taxied down the runway and the wings fell off — back to the drawing board again.

Shabbat morning, the airplane manufacturer was in shul. After services, he told his rabbi about the wings falling off the new plane. The rabbi thought a moment, then advised the man, “put holes along the wing at the point the wings break.”

The man thought it was nuts but decided to take his rabbi’s advice.

The test pilot revved the engine, taxied down the runway and took off for a beautiful maiden flight. The manufacturer couldn’t believe putting in the holes worked. He went to his rabbi. “Rabbi, putting the holes in the wings worked perfectly. How did you know this?” His rabbi said, “Have you ever been able to break a matzah along the lines with the holes? If it works for matzah, why not for airplanes?”

JEWISH CONGREGATION OF MARCO ISLAND

Join our community Seder

On April 5, Naples Jewish Congregation will host a community Seder led

by Rabbi Herman at Cypress Woods Country Club. Tickets are available through March 27 and can be ordered at www.naplesjewishcongregation.org.

The cost for nonmembers is $60 for adults and $18 for children 12 and under. This will be a full Seder with the traditional Pesach foods. Please come and join us.

You can also join us for services on Friday nights, 7 p.m., at the Unitarian Universalist church just off Pine Ridge Road in Naples. We would love to welcome you to the small congregation with the big heart.

www.marcojcmi.com / 239.642.0800

Still more to come at JCMI Join us!

Stan Alliker President

I

n April, JCMI continues to offer its meaningful religious programs: • Shabbat services are conducted every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. with Rabbi Mark Gross, Cantorial Soloist Hari Jacobson and accompanist Dr. Ron Doiron.

• Torah Study takes place every Saturday morning at 9:30 a.m. in the Meer Room offering an in-depth learning experience.

• Shabbat Shachrit Worship also takes place on Saturday mornings right after Torah Study at 10:45 a.m., which is led by Rabbi Mark Gross and Cantor Hari Jacobsen.

Congregational Passover Seder

Wednesday, April 5 at 6:30 p.m.

Please join us for our 41st annual Congregational Passover Seder here at JCMI!

BETH TIKVAH

A complete traditional Passover meal will be catered by “Mango’s Dockside Bistro.” Visitors and guests are welcome!

Please RSVP by March 24.

Tickets are $75 for members, $85 for visitors/guests; children ages 4-12 are $35 for member and $45 for visitors/guests.

Children under 4 are free.

For more information, please visit our website at www.marcojcmi.com under “Concerts/Flyers & Info.”

Women’s book club in its 15th year

In its 15th season, the monthly women’s book club will take place in JCMI’s Meer Room. Men are welcome! There will be a discussion of “banned books.”

You can read any book of your choice! Suggestions are: “Maus” by Art Spiegelman, “Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret” by Judy Blume and “Beloved” by Toni Morrison.

Te m p l e m e m b e r s h i p i s n o t necessary, and everyone is welcome to participate.

Thursday, April 6 at 11 a.m.

www.bethtikvahnaples.org / 239.434.1818

Adieu to all Steven Chizzik President

A

s I sit down to write my final Federation Star column, I want everyone to know that it has been my pleasure to serve as president of Beth Tikvah these last two years.

Hopefully, my service to our wonderful synagogue will be remembered as one in which many positive changes have occurred while keeping the tradition of conservative Judaism alive and well here in Greater Naples. Beth Tikvah has grown enormously during my two-year tenure as president, and I know the synagogue has continued its reputation of warmth and caring that has become our calling card.

I must thank Rabbi Chorny for all he does for Beth Tikvah and for being my friend and offering his guidance during my tenure. I would also like to thank our board of trustees and committee chairpersons whose expertise and experience is most appreciated, as well as all those people who go above and beyond for Beth Tikvah’s interests.

In the columns that I’ve written here, I’ve tried to bring Jewish values to many of today’s world issues. I’ve enjoyed your many comments and I hope I may have precipitated some conversation in your homes. I would welcome anyone reading this to experience Beth Tikvah’s shabbat service, where I can be found every Saturday, and join me after services for a savory kiddush in our beautiful outdoor garden for the day’s discussion. I hope to see you there!

I’ve shared some beautiful poetry with you from my favorite poet, Emily Dickinson. I’d like to finish today with some beautiful verses from our Torah:

May Adonai bless you and guard you.

May Adonai show you favor and be gracious to you.

May Adonai show you kindness and grant you peace.

I hope ever yone has a joyous Passover!

I again would like to remind everyone that Beth Tikvah is offering new members their first year’s membership free of charge.

If you or a friend wishes to experience the warmth and community found at Beth Tikvah, please join us.

Please see the calendar below to view all the great events taking place at Beth Tikvah this month.

Beth Tikvah happenings

• April 5, 6 p.m. – First Seder • April 6, 9 a.m. – Passover 1st day services • April 12, 9 a.m. – Last day Passover; Yiskor • Every Tuesday at 12:15 p.m. – Rabbi

Chorny’s Lunch and Learn via Zoom • Friday services begin at 6:15 p.m. in person and via Zoom • Saturday services begin at 9:30 a.m. in person and via Zoom • Sunday morning services begin at 9 a.m. in person and via Zoom • We convene Yahrzeit minyanim upon request.

Please check the Beth Tikvah website, www.bethtikvahnaples.org, for details regarding all our events.

You may reach Rabbi Chorny directly at 239-537-5257.

Beth Tikvah is the affiliated congregation in Greater Naples of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ). We are grateful to the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples (JFGN) for support of our Scholar in Residence, Naples Jewish Film Festival and All Things Jewish programs.

FOCUS ON YOUTH

April 2023

Federation Star

15A

TEMPLE SHALOM PRESCHOOL

www.naplestemple.org / 239.455.3030

Chocolate Seder — an idea worth trying

By Rabbi Ariel Boxman, Director of Lifelong Learning

T

emple Shalom Preschool and YESh students are getting very excited to celebrate Passover this month! For weeks now, the students have been preparing for the holiday with songs, food, crafts and dramatic play.

On Sunday, April 2, students in YESh will enjoy a special Chocolate Seder led by myself and Miss Jane Galler. This annual tradition has become beloved and one that our students wait all year for!

Instead of the traditional Seder foods, the students will enjoy a whole Seder experience with chocolate Seder alternatives. Instead of 4 cups of grape juice, students will enjoy four small cups of chocolate milk. Instead of matzah, students will have chocolate-covered matzah, and so on.

By adding the element of chocolate into the Seder, students experience the

Afikomen Hunt!

excitement of the holiday and have a positive association with the Seder ritual.

From our rabbinic literature, we learn that Rabbi Akiba would give treats and snacks to his children during the Seder so that they would not fall asleep and take an interest in the Seder. A chocolate-filled Seder is surely a good way to keep children’s attention!

If you want to also enjoy a chocolate Seder at home (or even do a chocolate Seder instead of a traditional one), you may access the Chocolate Haggadah at https://tinyurl.com/chocolateseder haggadah. Listed in the Haggadah are the chocolate substitutions for the traditional Seder foods.

We wish you and your family a wonderful Passover holiday and look forward to hearing how you enjoyed the chocolate Seder experience!

Come for the fun. Stay for the friends!

Find your afikomen and get a prize!

Can U Dig It Playground Sunday, April 2, 2023 3:00PM–4:00PM North Collier Regional Park 15000 Livingston Rd

RSVP

Alicia Feldman programs@jewishnaples.org facebook.com/PJLibraryNaplesFL

FREE Jewish books kids will love, sent every month!

Add Jewish connections to reading time with curated stories for ages 0-12

OF GREATER NAPLES

Bar/Bat Mitzvah Programs Business Identity Packages Events & Tradeshows Mailings Banners Promotional Items and So Much More...

Learn more at jewishnaples.org/pj-library

OF GREATER NAPLES

OF GREATER NAPLES

239.592.9377 info@NaplesEnvelope.com

16A

Federation Star

April 2023

PRESCHOOL OF THE ARTS

FOCUS ON YOUTH

www.chabadnaples.com / 239.262.4474

March at Preschool of the Arts

By Ettie Zaklos, Preschool of the Arts Founder & Director

M

arch felt like one long joyous celebration at Preschool of the Arts. And why wouldn’t it?

Purim was in the air! Our school community joined together early in the month in grand fashion with an elaborate “Purim in Candyland” mega-party that was enjoyed by all. The well-attended holiday event welcomed the Greater Naples community to visit a life-size Candyland board with all the trimmings — lollipops, gumballs and chocolate fountain included. There was even a real train to take us around the campus-sized board. It was definitely our sweetest Purim ever!

In our classrooms, children got well into the spirit of the festivities, dressing up in costumes, singing Purim songs and baking hamantashen. In art class, the children designed and decorated beautiful baskets that they filled with yummy goodies. The children then gifted their basket to a friend in the Purim custom of Mishloach Manot, encouraging sharing, giving and friendship.

Many of the holiday themes and values our school shares with the children stem from our tradition. The Purim story is told in the Book of Esther, the only book of the Bible that does not contain the name nor any reference to G-d. It seems as if the Jewish victory over Haman was due to wonderful coincidences and ordinary good luck. But G-d often works in ways that are not apparent, in ways that appear to be chance. It is up to us to uncover that “hidden-ness” of the Divine/human relationship and acknowledge its place in our lives.

Taking this message to human relationships — friendships and even strangers — we share a world together and it is wonderful to take the time to acknowledge the connections we have with each other. Purim reminds us that there is always a special relationship to celebrate.

All we need to do is stop, think about it and tap into it. And that’s what Purim asks

of us. To stop and think about the people dear to us and show our appreciation. We give each other gifts of food to express our gratitude for the relationship.

Here at Preschool of the Arts, we are a family. We share common goals and aspirations for our children and know the value of creating relationships. That is why March also hosted one of our most popular events of the year — Grandparents Day! Grandparents and special friends joined us for a “Touch-A-Truck Party,” a wonderful interactive day of fun and inspiring activities to nurture that special intergenerational bond. There were truck activities of all sizes, from a real-life car wash to a mini-city filled with every truck imaginable.

Our school body has grown significantly over the years, but we always work to maintain an intimate experience for our dear grandparents so that they can really connect with their grandchildren. The program focused on facilitating hands-on memorable experiences for the grandparents and children to play together, creating magical “touch”ing moments that are sure to last a lifetime.

We know that being a grandparent is one of the greatest gifts in life and we were honored to recognize the special role grandparents play in their grandchildren’s lives. Throughout the day, we were inspired to witness the overwhelming pride and joy on all our grandparents’ faces, beaming as the children demonstrated their tremendous accomplishments and growth. Most wonderful of all was the way the children burst with pride, as each one felt special and loved. It is truly only grandparents who can bring so much joy!

Want to find out more about the Jay and Patty Baker Preschool of the Arts? Please visit our website at Naples PreschooloftheArts@gmail.com or call 239-263-2620.

The Chabad of Naples and Preschool of the Arts Purim bash was a magical "Candyland" party filled with the sweetest treats and the sweetest community we could ever imagine!

The grand masquerade at POTA had children dressed to the nines in costumes galore!

FOCUS ON YOUTH

April 2023

BBYO

Federation Star

17A

azabbg.bbyo.org/on-demand/home

BBYO Naples teens in action

By Bobbie Katz and Marc Saperstein, co-chairs of BBYO Naples

B

BYO Naples teens participated in two key programs in February.

The first, on Sunday the 12th, was an ice cream social Meet & Greet with new BBYO Naples staff professional Cayla Schreier. This event was attended by 13 Naples teens.

The second event, on Sunday the 26th, was a cookie decorating and informational session for the teens and their parents. We had 17 teens and six parents in attendance at this second event. Bella Schaab, Chapter N’siah (president), ran the informational session along with Schreier. Both events were held in our new home, the BBYO Lounge at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

This year, BBYO Naples is celebrating its 11th year serving Jewish teens in Greater Naples in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, Temple Shalom, Chabad of Naples and Beth Tikvah. Each of these organizations provides financial support, along with the generosity of our BBYO Friends and alumni donors.

Over the past decade, BBYO Naples has engaged over 350 local Jewish teens in programs that allow them to connect to their Jewish roots, serve others through community service, build leadership skills and create lifelong friendships. Today, we have over 30 AZA and BBG members in our two chapters in BBYO Naples.

We are also partnering with BBYO Ft. Myers teens on various programs.

International convention

BBYO held its International Convention in Dallas in mid-February, with over

3,000 teens from around the world participating in person. Presenters included luminaries such as former Israel Prime Minister Naftali Bennett; Second Gentleman of the U.S. Douglas Emhoff; Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jodi Kantor; David Hogg, co-founder of March for our Lives; Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt; and many other inspiring individuals. In addition, the teens heard songs from the cast of “Hamilton.” BBYO’s 100th birthday is next year, and the International Convention will be held in Orlando, Florida.

Upcoming events

We are looking forward to several upcoming events including a Shabbat Beach Cleanup and an Escape from Egypt escape room trip for Passover. The teens are also looking forward to the North Florida Region Spring Convention in Orlando in April.

Finally, as we create a safe, fun and engaging space for our BBYO teens in the new BBYO Lounge, we have procured a ping pong table, bean bag chairs and games for the teens to play both inside and outside in the courtyard.

BBYO is the leading pluralistic Jewish teen movement aspiring to involve more Jewish teens in more meaningful Jewish activities. BBYO welcomes Jewish teens in eighth through twelfth grade regardless of background, denominational affiliation, gender, race, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. Today, BBYO reaches over 70,000 teens globally in over 60 countries with hundreds of chapters across North America.

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

ConneCt with your Jewish Community

www.facebook.com/

facebook.com/jfedsrq JewishFederationofGreaterNaples

Jewish continuity is critically important to our future and finding ways to keep our teens engaged Jewishly, post B’nai Mitzvah, is a key element of what BBYO provides.

If you know of someone who has a teen who might like to join BBYO Naples or know of someone who might like to be an advisor to our chapters, please email Cayla Schreier at cschreier@bbyo.org.

Scholarships to attend BBYO conventions and summer programs are available through both Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and Temple Shalom Men’s Club.

For more information on scholarships, please contact Schreier.

If you are a BBYO alum and would like to be included in our friends and alumni mailing list, please email us at mjs0821@aol.com.

18A

Federation Star

FOCUS ON YOUTH

April 2023

www.Chabadfgcu.com / 347.452.0489

CHABAD FGCU

Another amazing Chabad at FGCU month flew by

By Rabbi Mendel Gordon

S

ome special highlights we had for the FGCU students in March include a special Hakel Shabbat, joining students from schools all over Florida for a shabbat together at UF. What a special feeling it was to sing shalom aleichem and welcome in shabbat with more than 300 Jewish students from all over.

Another highlight was a shabbat dinner in North Lake, where one of the students hosted shabbat for the clan.

We had a fun night at Headpinz for bowling organized by our student leaders, and how could I forget the pre-Purim hamentashen bake?

We had a fun course called paradigm shift, learning the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s

positive outlook on life. Allowing us to see things in a whole new light, and a great text-based class on the weekly Parsha.

We look forward to celebrating Passover together with our student community. Our seders are open to any college-age Jews in Southwest Florida. Reach out for more information.

Chabad at FGCU services students at FGCU other local college-age Jews. For more information or to connect, reach out to Rabbi Mendel at 239-355-8481 or Rabbi@ chabadfgcu.com.

Hayley, Jack, Robyn, Max and Rabbi Mendel delving into the parsha

Courtney at hamentashen bake

Max, Barrell, Jonah and Jonathan at bowling night

Candle lighting times Apr. 7: 7:29 p.m.

Apr. 14: 7:32 p.m.

Apr. 21: 7:35 p.m.

Apr. 28: 7:39 p.m.

Gabe and Andrew enjoy hamentashen bake

Federation Star Publication Policy The Federation Star is a subsidized arm of JFGN. Its purpose and function is to publicize the activities and programs of Federation as well as ongoing activities of recognized Jewish organizations in Greater Naples.

The goal of JFGN is to reach out and unite all Jews of the Greater Naples area.

While differing opinions and points of view exist on many issues of importance to Jews, the Federation Star will confine itself to publishing only items that report the facts of actual events of concern to Jews and offer commentary that clearly intends to unite all Jews in a common purpose.

Critical or derogatory comments directed at individuals or organizations will not be published.

To avoid misunderstandings, controversies and destructive divisions among our people, the Officers and Board of Trustees of Federation have adopted the following publication policy: Advertisements: All advertisements, regardless of their sponsor, shall be paid for in full, at the established rates, prior to publication. The contents of all advertisements shall be subject to review and approval of the Federation board or its designee. Commercial advertisers may make credit arrangements with the advertising

manager, subject to the approval of the Federation board.

Regular Columns: Regular columns shall be accepted only from leaders (Rabbis, Presidents, Chairs) of established and recognized Jewish organizations in Greater Naples and the designated chairs of the regular committees of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

Special Announcements: Special announcements shall be accepted from established Jewish organizations in Greater Naples and may, at the discretion of the Federation board, be subject to the conditions applicable to paid advertisements, as set forth above.

News Items: Only those news items pertaining to matters of general interest to the broadest cross section of the Jewish community will be accepted for publication.

Note: Items of controversial opinions and points of view about political issues will not be accepted for publication without prior approval of a majority of the Federation Officers and Trustees.

All persons and organizations objecting to the actions and rulings of the Editor or Publications Committee Chair shall have the right to appeal those rulings to the Officers and Board of Trustees of JFGN.

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY TEMPLE SHALOM OF NAPLES (Reform) 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL 34119 Phone: 455.3030  Fax: 455.4361 Email: info@naplestemple.org www.naplestemple.org Rabbi Adam Miller, MAHL Cantor Donna Azu, MSM Rabbi Ariel Boxman, MAHL, MARE, Director of Lifelong Learning Rabbi James H. Perman, D.D., Rabbi Emeritus Deborah Rosen Fidel, J.D., MAJPS, Executive Director Len Teitelbaum, President Jim Cochran, Music Director Shabbat Services: Shabbat Eve - Friday 7:30 p.m.

Shabbat - Saturday 10 a.m.

Sisterhood Men’s Club Adult Education Havurot Youth Groups Religious School Judaic Library Hebrew School Preschool Adult Choir Social Action Naples’ only Judaica Shop

CHABAD NAPLES JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER serving Naples and Marco Island 1789 Mandarin Road, Naples, FL 34102 Phone: 262.4474 Email: info@chabadnaples.com Website: www.chabadnaples.com Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos Co-directors Dr. Arthur Seigel, President Shabbat Services Shabbat - Saturday 10 a.m.

Camp Gan Israel Hebrew School Preschool of the Arts Jewish Women’s Circle Adult Education Bat Mitzvah Club Friendship Circle Smile on Seniors Flying Challah Kosher food delivery

CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS & ESTERO 24611 Production Circle Bonita Springs, FL 34135 Phone: 239-949-6900 Email: chabad@jewishbonita.com Website: www.JewishBonita.com Rabbi Mendy & Luba Greenberg Co-directors Services: Sunday 9 a.m.

Monday through Friday 8 a.m.

Shabbat 10 a.m.

Adult Education Challah of Love Community Events Daily Minyan Services Hebrew School Kosher Grocery Kosher Meals on Wheels Smile on Seniors

April 2023 JEWISH CONGREGATION OF MARCO ISLAND (Reform) 991 Winterberry Drive Marco Island, FL 34145 Phone: 642.0800  Fax: 642.1031 Email: tboxma@marcojcmi.com Website: www.marcojcmi.com Rabbi Mark Gross Hari Jacobsen, Cantorial Soloist Stan Alliker, President Shabbat Services Friday 7:30 p.m.

Seasonal: Saturday Talmud-Torah at 9:30 a.m. and Shachrit at 10:30 a.m.

Rabbi’s Lifelong Learning Series Sidney R. Hoffman Jewish Film Festival Saul I. Stern Cultural Series JCMI Book Club

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION (Reform)

Services are held at: The Unitarian Congregation 6340 Napa Woods Way Rabbi Howard Herman 431.3858 Email: rabbi@naplesjewishcongregation.org www.naplesjewishcongregation.org

Federation Star

19A

BETH TIKVAH (Conservative)

1459 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34109

(just west of Mission Square Plaza)

Phone: 434.1818 Email: office@bethtikvah.us Website: www.bethtikvahnaples.org

Charles Flum, President Jane Galler, Cantorial Soloist

Rabbi Ammos Chorny Steve Chizzik, President Roberta Miller, Secretary

Shabbat Services Friday evenings 7 p.m.

May - August: services once a month

Shabbat Services Friday evenings 6:15 p.m.

Saturday mornings 9:30 a.m.

Sisterhood • Men’s Club Adult Education • Adult Choir Social Action • Community Events

Youth Education Adult Education Community Events

SOAR

in the NEW YEAR

Jewish Organizations to Serve You in Greater Naples (All area codes are 239 unless otherwise noted.)

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Phone: 263.4205  Fax: 263.3813 Website: www.jewishnaples.org Email: info@jewishnaples.org

FLY HIGH WITH YOUR ESTATE PLANNING Whether you are traveling far or staying home, your flight and your life are better when you plan. We can help you map out a fulfilling and smooth trip through the new year. It is time to soar.

Here is a good place to start on your estate planning this year:

American Jewish Committee

Regional Dir: Brian Lipton, 941.365.4955

American Technion Society

Chapter Dir: Kelley Whiter, 561.395.7206

Baker Senior Center Naples

Write or update your will Check with your bank and investment advisor to update your transfer on death forms Take inventory of your highly appreciated assets and use them, rather than cash, to transfer gifts to charity

Partner with us! YOU WILL SOAR WHEN YOU SEE HOW EASY IT IS TO LOWER YOUR TAXES AND POTENTIALLY INCREASE YOUR INCOME, ALL WHILE HELPING OTHERS. Ellen Weiss Executive Director 813.769.4785 ellen@topjewishfoundation.org

The community foundation for the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

• Federation Board Chair: Jane Schiff • Federation President/CEO: Jeffrey Feld

Marcy Friedland Planned Giving Director 239.263.4205 mfriedland@jewishnaples.org WWW.TOPJEWISHFOUNDATION.ORG

Phone: 325.4444 Chairperson: Prentiss Higgins President/CEO: Dr. Jaclynn Faffer

Friends of the IDF

Exec. Dir.: Dina Ben Ari, 305.354.8233

GenShoah SWFL 263.9200

Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah President: Joyce Toub, 518.330.1559

Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center

Chairperson: Stuart Price President/CEO: Susan Suarez, 263.9200

Israel Bonds

Monica DiGiovanni, 727.282.1124

Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida

President: Marina Berkovich, 566.1771

Jewish National Fund

Joshua Mellits, 941.462.1330 x865

The Federation Star is published monthly, September through July,

by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

Jewish War Veterans Post 202

4720 Pine Ridge Road • Naples, FL 34119

President: Michael Sobol, 508.733.9427

Phone: 239.263.4205 E-mail: info@jewishnaples.org • Website: www.jewishnaples.org

Tara Harris, 407-832-4443

Volume 32, No. 8 • April 2023 • 40 pages USPS Permit No. 1101

Naples Friends of American Magen David Adom (MDA)

Publisher: Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Editor: Sharon Hood • 239.591.2709 • sharon@marketcrank.com Design: MarketCrank, Inc.

Commander, Harvey Sturm, 261.3270

Men’s Cultural Alliance Naples BBYO

SE Reg Dir: Joel Silberman, 954.457.9766

PJ Library

Coordinator: Alicia Feldman www.jewishnaples.org/pj-library

Women’s Cultural Alliance

Advertising: Joy Walker • 941.284.0520

President: Patti Boochever, 518.852.3440

May 2023 Issue Deadlines: Editorial: March 30 • Advertising: April 5 Send news stories to: sharon@marketcrank.com

Zionist Organization of America President: Jerry Sobel, 914.329.1024

20A

Federation Star

April 2023

Chag Pesach Sameach!

Find the perfect dishes for your family’s holiday feast at publix.com/passover. publix.com/passover