Federation Star - December 2025

www.JewishNaples.org Y December 2025 – Kislev/Tevet 5786 Y Vol. 35 #4

Star

Greater Naples

OUR IMPACT We support Jews here, Israel, and overseas, as well as provide local programming that builds Jewish knowledge, identity, and community.

1.7

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HAPPY HANUKKAH!

Read about our upcoming Hanukkah celebration on December 15.

See Page 15.

Shaping Jewish life in Greater Naples p. 2 Jewish Federation of Greater Naples 4720 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34119

Become a Naples Jewish Film Festival Patron pp. 16, 17, 21

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December 2025

Fed Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

Your Voice, Our Future Help shape the next five years of Jewish life in Greater Naples

By Nathaniel Ritter, Board Chair

Jewish life and continuity in Greater Naples. Those efforts have exceeded all expectations, transforming our building into a lively, welcoming cultural center that brings together thousands of community members each week.

Nathaniel Ritter Federation Board Chair

Our Jewish Federation mission remains at the heart of our work: to enhance and enrich the quality of Jewish life. Guided by this mission, the previous plan focused on strengthening financial sustainability, expanding outreach, enhancing programming, recruiting and developing new leadership, and maximizing use of our Jewish Cultural Center.

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s we approach another new year, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples is looking both from where we came with great pride and where we are heading with great purpose. Over the past several years, the Federation has experienced tremendous growth in participation, programming, and impact. Now, as the board prepares to review and update our current strategic plan for the next five years, the Federation is inviting the community to take part in shaping the next chapter of Jewish life in Greater Naples.

The results have been remarkable. We paid off the mortgage on our building in June 2024, a major milestone that ensures long-term financial stability.

A reserve fund has been established for future repairs and needs, and the Annual Campaign now exceeds $2 million. The community also surpassed national goals for the Emergency Israel Campaign and launched a new Rebuild Israel Campaign that has been met with great enthusiasm and generosity. Thanks to a lead gift from Stephen Saks, the Federation’s endowments have grown to more than $15 million as of October 2025, helping

In 2022, the Jewish Federation’s Board began a strategic planning process that helped guide our organization through the opening of our Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, which officially opened in January 2023. That plan challenged the Jewish Federation leadership to think boldly about how the new building could serve as both a community hub and a symbol of

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Building on that success, the Jewish Federation is now embarking on a new five-year strategic planning process to help shape our next chapter of Jewish life in Southwest Florida. We envision this plan as an opportunity to explore how we can best enrich programming, expand engagement, and prepare for the needs of our ever-growing and evolving Jewish community. The planning process will also examine ways to strengthen our organization's financial sustainability and leadership development for the future.

Under the leadership of our new President & CEO, Nammie Ichilov, who joined the community in 2024, our Jewish Federation is poised to take its work to even greater heights. Nammie follows in the footsteps of President

As we develop the new strategic plan, we hope to explore opportunities to deepen engagement across all generations, expand outreach to new members of the Jewish community, enhance educational and cultural programming, build leadership pipelines, and strengthen local and international partnerships.

Our Federation’s success has always been built on the passion, generosity, and participation of its community members. As we look toward the future, we invite everyone — longtime residents, seasonal visitors, and new community members alike — to share your ideas and aspirations for the future of Jewish life in Greater Naples.

Community members are encouraged to share their thoughts and suggestions with Board Chair Nat Ritter at nritter@jewishnaples.org, or President & CEO Nammie Ichilov at ceo@jewishnaples.org.

Together, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples continues to build community, inspire connection, and strengthen Jewish life, today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.

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The Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center has quickly become the beating heart of Jewish life in the area. More than 3,000 people visit the building each week, and over 300 programs were hosted last season by our Jewish Federation, the Women’s Cultural Alliance (WCA), and the Men’s Cultural Alliance (MCA). Participation and programming have far exceeded projections made during the last strategic planning cycle. “That’s a lot of Jewish outreach,” one board member remarked with pride.

& CEO Emeritus Jeffrey Feld, whose vision and dedication helped position Jewish Federation of Greater Naples as one of the most dynamic Jewish organizations in the country.

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JEWISH FEDERATION

December 2025

Fed Star

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The Light That Unites Us

By Nammie Ichilov, Federation President & CEO Nammie Ichilov Federation President & CEO

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s we gather around our menorahs this Hanukkah, watching the flames multiply night after night, we witness a profound truth: eight candles burning together in one place create a brilliance that eight scattered candles never could. When we bring our lights close together, they amplify each other, illuminating an entire room and casting away shadows that isolated flames could never reach. This is the essence of our Jewish Federation, we are not just a collection of individual lights scattered across the community, but a radiant force that is infinitely stronger and brighter when united.

The miracle of Hanukkah isn't only about oil lasting eight days; it's about how unity amplifies our strength.

Each candle alone is vulnerable, easily extinguished by the slightest wind.

But together, we create a glow that cannot be dimmed. Our Federation serves as the shamash, the helper candle that lights all the others,

transforming individual sparks into a community-wide flame that warms and protects us all.

In these uncertain times, our collective light ensures safety and security for every Jewish family. We stand together so that our synagogues, programs, and community activities can be beacons rather than targets. Through the Jewish Federation’s investment in community-wide coordinated security assessments, training, and resources, we create a protective glow that no single Jewish organization could achieve alone.

United, we are vigilant. United, we are secure. This shared commitment allows every other light in our community to burn without fear.

But our brightness isn't only about protection, it's about the countless ways we illuminate each other's lives.

Watch the light dance in a child's eyes as they receive their monthly PJ Library book, discovering Jewish heroes and traditions that connect them to thousands of years of heritage. See the flame glow in our community’s WCA and MCA members who gather for social and cultural programs, their rekindled friendships chasing away isolation's darkness.

These individual moments of joy

combine into something extraordinary, a community ablaze with connection, purpose, and belonging.

Our Jewish Federation weaves threads of light across every divide.

Young families find their footing through early childhood programs.

Teens discover leadership and identity. Adults build bridges through social action and interfaith dialogue.

College students far from home connect with other Jewish students on campus, finding their tribe. Each program is a wick; each relationship is fuel. Alone, they flicker. Together, they roar.

Consider the light radiating from a struggling family receiving emergency assistance, able to celebrate Shabbat with dignity. The brilliance

in a volunteer's face as they deliver meals to homebound neighbors, embodying tikkun olam (repairing the world) and demonstrating gemilut chasadim (acts of loving-kindness), one act of compassion at a time. These lights don't just add up; they multiply, creating warmth that spreads far beyond the initial spark.

This Hanukkah, as you light your menorah, make sure to also join us at the Mercato on Monday, December 15 at 4:30 p.m. Remember that each flame you kindle joins with thousands of others throughout our Greater Naples community. What begins as eight small lights in your window becomes an unstoppable inferno of hope, compassion, and resilience. We are not merely the sum of our parts; we are exponentially greater together.

From all of us at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, may your Hanukkah be filled with light, and may we continue to blaze forward as one. Chag Orot Sameach. Wishing you a festive holiday of light.

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Fed Star

December 2025

JEWISH FEDERATION

New Year, New Resolve

Greater Naples

Strengthening our security plans

Star

Published by

RSA John Murtagh

Security Advisor (RSA), is a crucial step in this process.

SCN Regional Security Advisor – Florida West Coast

As your RSA, I can provide guidance tailored to your facility’s specific needs - identifying vulnerabilities, recommending best practices, and helping you implement effective, sustainable safety measures. Regular training in situational awareness, responding to an active threat, and bleeding control

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s we approach the new year of 2026, now is the perfect time for Jewish Federation of Greater Naples agencies and institutions to strengthen their security readiness and resilience. Proactive planning is essential to ensure the safety of our congregations, schools, and organizations in this ever-changing threat environment. Scheduling security training and comprehensive threat assessments with me, your Secure Community Network (SCN) Regional

ensures that staff, volunteers, and community members know how to respond confidently and effectively in emergencies.

Equally important is the initial development or annual revision of your

Emergency Operations Plans (EOP).

A well-designed EOP clearly outlines procedures for communication, evacuation, sheltering, and recovery, ensuring that every individual understands their role in maintaining safety.

Reviewing and updating this plan annually allows you to address new risks, changes in personnel, and lessons learned from past experiences.

Agencies should consider scheduling a Tabletop exercise for your leadership to gauge your response to different scenarios. As your RSA, I can administer that training for your organization.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns, you can find me at jmurtagh@ securecommunitynetwork.org or 872-273-9830.

Join us in Tallahassee to advocate for Israel, Jewish issues Alan Scher Zagier JCRC Director

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s the crow flies, the state Capitol in Tallahassee sits more than 400 miles from the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. It’s a good six- to seven-hour drive, and a place we Neapolitans rarely venture.

That will change on January 26-27, 2026, when a contingent from Jewish Federation of Greater Naples — a delegation that we hope you will join — connects with members of the state’s 10 other Federations for a two-day mission to Tallahassee to advocate for Jewish community interests and to celebrate Israel culture alongside state lawmakers and other Florida government officials.

The program costs $199 per person and includes advocacy training as well as several meals. (Transportation and lodging are not included, but there are discounted rates.) To register, visit jewishpb.org/israeldaysflyin/; the sign-up deadline is December 22.

If you have any questions, please contact me at azagier@jewishnaples.org or 239-799-1842.

Our delegation will be led by members of the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), a 20-member volunteer committee that serves as the external voice of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples in the broader Southwest Florida community. Please consider joining us and bringing your voice to our state capital.

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4720 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34119 Phone: 239.263.4205 www.jewishnaples.org Email: info@jewishnaples.org Officers Chair: Nathaniel Ritter Vice Chairs: Frank Baum, Rosalee Bogo, Robin Mintz Secretary: Marc Saperstein Treasurer: Steve Strome

Board of Directors Felicia Anchor, Myra Benedikt, Mark Blaskey, Joan Meltzer Blumkin, Marcia Cohodes, Max Deifik, Paula Filler, Judith Finer Freedman, Cheryl Ginsburg, Mia Hyatt, Larry Israelite, Steve Iser, Tammy Katz, James Knafo, Lisa Koppel, Elliot Lerner, Debbie Lurie, Darlene Muller, Joel Pittelman, Michael Rubenstein, Anne Schuchman, Michael Sobol

Past Board Chairs Gerald Flagel, Dr. William Ettinger, Ann Jacobson (z’’l), Sheldon Starman, Bobbie Katz, Rosalee Bogo, Judge Norman Krivosha (z’’l), Alvin Becker (z’’l), Jane Schiff

One State, One Voice On our first day in Tallahassee, we will attend an Israel Day reception at the Capitol. On Tuesday, we will go to a legislative breakfast and then visit lawmakers.

of Greater Naples

Synagogue Representatives

In recent months, our JCRC has worked to enhance, elevate and strengthen our ties with lawmakers and other government officials with tangible results. That includes a unanimous vote of approval in late October

by Collier County commissioners of a resolution adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism (see p. 6).

Earlier in October, we hosted an array of elected leaders at the Federation’s October 7 remembrance and Memorial Flag Garden dedication. Among those present were U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, a Naples resident and former Florida governor; Collier Sheriff Kevin Rambosk; Naples Mayor Teresa Heitmann; and County Commissioner Dan Kowal.

Throughout the summer, we’ve separately hosted members of the Southwest Florida legislative delegation and their staffs at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, including state Rep. Yvette Bennaroch, a U.S. Air Force veteran, small business owner and Marco Island resident who is also a member of our Jewish community.

We look forward to renewing our connections with our lawmakers in January and engaging directly with them on the critical issues that help shape and inform our Jewish community — from Israel advocacy and security at houses of worship to antisemitism education and deterrence.

Our mission to Tallahassee is an opportunity to send a powerful message to key decision-makers and to speak as one state, with one voice.

Please join us and be a part of that conversation.

Stan Alliker, Cantor Donna Azu, Rabbi Ariel Boxman, Rabbi Ammos Chorny, Joshua Garfield, Rabbi Mendel Gordon, Rabbi Mendy Greenberg, Rabbi Mark Gross, Joseph Henson, Rabbi Howard Herman, Rabbi Adam Miller, Steve McCloskey, Rabbi James Perman, Dr. Arthur Seigel, Rabbi Fishel Zaklos

Staff Nammie Ichilov: President & CEO Jeffrey Feld: President & CEO Emeritus Eduardo Avila: Campaign Associate Melissa Barr: Business Development and Events Manager Reneé Bialek: Director of Programs Jaime Cohen: Executive Assistant & Board Liaison Michelle Cunningham: Administrative Assistant Hailey Dalby: Jewish Youth & Family Programs Manager Alicia Feldman: Director of Development Kayde Jones: Director of Marketing & Communications Pat Pastorius: Facility Manager Anthony Clark: Facility Assistant Susan Spoerlein: Accounting Manager Alan Scher Zagier: JCRC Director Federation's mission is to enhance and enrich the quality of Jewish life by recognizing and supporting the charitable, educational, humanitarian and social service needs of the Jewish community locally, nationally, overseas and in the state of Israel.

Programs include: • Annual Community Campaign • Celebrate Israel • Educational & Cultural Programs • Israel and Overseas Committee • Israel Scouts • Jewish Book Festival • Jewish Community Relations Council • Jewish Young Professionals/ The Tribe • Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance • Men’s Cultural Alliance • Naples Jewish Film Festival • PJ Library & PJ Our Way • Publication of Fed Star and Connections magazine • Women’s Cultural Alliance • Women in Philanthropy • Youth Activities Committee – sponsoring youth education and scholarships for Jewish Summer Camp and Israel Experiences

December 2025

Fed Star

The light.

The love.

The latkes.

Brighten your candles and your kitchen with the Chanukah favorites your family loves.

Explore at publix.com/chanukah.

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Fed Star

December 2025

Collier County Adopts Global Definition of Antisemitism

JEWISH FEDERATION

WHEREAS, The Collier County Board of Commissioners wishes to support the State of Florida’s definition of antisemitism under section 1.015, Florida Statutes, which is currently the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA)’s working definition of antisemitism, including specific examples to help guide law enforcement and other local agencies; and

By Alan Scher Zagier, Jewish Community Relations Council Director

I

n a strong show of support for our local Jewish community, elected leaders in Collier County unanimously endorsed the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism — the global gold standard to help identify and prevent discrimination against Jews.

The five-member Collier County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to adopt the IHRA definition (see attached) at its Oct. 28 meeting, joining the state of Florida and 36 other states as well as the city of Naples and more than 1,200 worldwide entities.

Jewish Community Relations Council. In his public testimony, Nammie Inchilov, president and CEO of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, said, “In these incredibly difficult times, words matter, but actions matter more….Your resolve today sends a powerful message: Collier County stands with its Jewish residents, and hatred has no place here.”

With the IHRA definition in hand, county officials (including law enforcement) will now have a valuable tool to take appropriate action to stop, deter and root out antisemitism, which has surged nationwide since the October 7 terror attacks in Israel.

The resolution was brought to the county for consideration by our

WHEREAS, Antisemitism is defined as a “certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward such individuals. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish and non-Jewish individuals and their property and toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities,” and WHEREAS, Contemporary examples of antisemitism include, but are not limited to, all of the following: (a) Calling for, aiding, or justifying the killing or harming of Jewish individuals. (b) Making mendacious, dehumanizing, demonizing, or stereotypical allegations about Jewish individuals as such or the power of Jewish people as a collective, such as the myth of a worldwide Jewish conspiracy or of Jewish individuals controlling the media, economy, government, or other societal institutions. (c) Accusing Jewish people as a collective of being responsible for real or imagined wrongdoing committed by a single Jewish person or group or for acts committed by non-Jewish individuals. (d) Denying the fact, scope, and mechanisms, such as gas chambers, or the intentionality of the genocide of the Jewish people at the hands of Nazi Germany and its supporters and accomplices during the Holocaust. (e) Accusing Jewish people as a collective, or Israel as a state, of inventing or exaggerating the Holocaust. (f) Accusing Jewish citizens of being more loyal to Israel, or to the alleged priorities of Jewish individuals worldwide, than to the interests of their respective nations. (g) Denying Jewish people their right to self-determination, such as claiming that the existence of the State of Israel is a racist endeavor. (h) Applying double standards by requiring of the Jewish State of Israel a standard of behavior not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation. (i) Using the symbols and images associated with classic antisemitism, such as blood libel, to characterize Israel or Israelis. (j) Drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis. (k) Holding Jewish individuals collectively responsible for actions of the State of Israel.

WHEREAS, Jews continue to be a targeted minority in the United States and are consistently the most likely of all religious groups to be victimized by incidents of hate; Such incidents are increasing at an alarming rate; in 2024, nearly 10,000 antisemitic incidents were reported in this country- a nearly 50-year high, with reports since the 10.7 terror attacks increasing by nearly 350 percent, and

Jewish community leaders (front) join Collier County Board of Commissioners following its unanimous passage of the IHRA antisemitism definition

WHEREAS, After a series of disturbing public incidents in Southwest Florida, the Collier County Board of Commissioners in October 2022 forcefully condemned antisemitism in all forms and expressions, and WHEREAS, The IHRA definition has been endorsed and adopted by more than 1,200 entities, from nations, states, cities and counties to colleges and universities, corporations and nonprofit agencies, including the counties of Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach, as well as the City of Naples (in March 2024), and WHEREAS, The definition of antisemitism does not include criticism of Israel that is akin to criticism of any other country, and that support of this definition is not to be construed as an infringement upon any right protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution or to conflict with federal or state antidiscrimination laws.

NOW THEREFORE, be it proclaimed by the Board of County Commissioners of Collier County, Florida, that the stated definition of antisemitism is hereby supported by the Board, with this resolution becoming effective immediately upon adoption.

DONE AND ORDERED THIS 28th day of October, 2025.

from JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF SWFL MARINA BERKOVICH, PRESIDENT ALEXANDER GOLDSTEIN, VP

Board of County Commissioners Collier County, Florida Burt L. Saunders, Chairman

JEWISH FEDERATION

December 2025

Fed Star

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Season of Giving and Community

By Debbie Laites and Phyllis Strome, 2026 Annual Community Campaign Co-chairs

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s we move from Thanksgiving into December, we enter not only the winter holiday season but also a time of reflection, generosity, and togetherness. With Hanukkah just around the corner, the spirit of giving shines brightly — a perfect opportunity to think about how we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Now is the ideal moment to consider your contribution to the 2026 Annual Community Campaign. The needs within our community — and beyond — remain great, and every gift, no matter the size, is deeply valued. If you are able, we invite you to consider increasing your contribution this year. Your generosity has the power to touch countless lives, both locally and globally.

Your Impact in Action

When you support the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples 2026 Annual Community Campaign, you help ensure that vital programs continue to grow and thrive. Here are just a few examples of the meaningful work your contributions make possible:

Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida

The Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida (JHSSWF) plays an

the Fund for Human Needs, honors local organizations that embody generosity and a deep commitment to helping others. This initiative puts into practice tikkun olam, the Jewish mission of repairing the world.

Phyllis Strome

Debbie Laites

essential role in preserving and sharing our region’s rich Jewish history.

Since its founding in 2010, JHSSWF has produced 26 educational films for the Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers series, which have been showcased at local Jewish History Film Festivals and featured in master classes at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

By contributing to the Annual Community Campaign, you help safeguard these invaluable cultural stories ensuring that future generations can learn from and celebrate our community’s heritage.

Fund for Human Needs

The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) works tirelessly to promote unity, understanding, and service across the broader community. One of its signature initiatives,

Among the honorees is Café of Life, a local organization serving foodinsecure populations in our area.

Their dedication to supporting those in need exemplifies the compassion and spirit of service that define our community.

Campaign Kickoff Event

Mark your calendars! We’re excited to invite you to our Campaign Kickoff Event on Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 7:00 p.m., at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

We’re delighted to welcome Shaun Eli, a celebrated stand-up comedian who has been making audiences laugh for more than two decades. His humor — known for its universal, uplifting,

and joyful appeal — has entertained crowds on five continents. Get ready for an evening filled with laughter, connection, and community spirit!

The event will conclude with a dessert reception, offering a wonderful opportunity to mingle, reconnect, and learn more about the impact of our shared efforts.

Stronger Together

As we embrace this season of giving, let us remember that the true strength of our community lies in what we a cco m p l i s h to g et h e r. W i t h your support, we continue to uplift, inspire, and care for one another — because together, we are stronger.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to Federation’s mission and for helping to make a lasting difference.

We look forward to celebrating with you on December 10 and to another year filled with service, generosity, and community.

Happy Hanukkah and a joyful holiday season to all!

2026 Annual Community Campaign Kick-Off

December 10, 7 p.m.

Join us: Stand-up Comedian SHAUN ELI

Clean comedian Shaun Eli has rightfully been called one of America’s smartest comics.

Whether it’s a story about dining with a vegetarian or successfully fighting a parking ticket in criminal court, master storyteller Shaun Eli shows you that there’s hilarity in the ordinary if you approach life with a comedic warp. You don’t want to miss this!

Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center | Cost: $36 Dessert Reception to Follow

To register, visit www.JewishNaples.org/ACC26 Or scan the QR code

VIP Campaign Patron opportunities available For details, email eavila@jewishnaples.org

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Fed Star

December 2025

JEWISH FEDERATION

Women of Philanthropy Get Together 2026 Women in Philanthropy Luncheon

By Susan Pittelman, Philanthropy Engagement Chair

I

n the Greater Naples On January 20 we Jewish community, will have the opporevery woman is a tunity to gather at Woman of Philanthropy. our 2026 Women Whether you give time, i n P h i l a n t h ro p y energy, or financial Luncheon, “Bloom resources; whether you W h e r e Yo u ’ r e uplift local community Planted,” to connect, agencies, empower the share, and learn. next generation, support The luncheon will Jews in need worldwide, feature Samantha Susan Pittelman or stand with Israel, you Ettus, best-selling are living your Jewish values and author, Jewish activist, and making a last-ing impact. influencer. Once a soughtafter speaker and television We are the women of Women’s Philanthropy, and it is our job to care for the needs of the Jewish people and build a vibrant Jewish future — in Greater Naples, in Israel, and around the world. We do this by coming together in pride and purpose to strengthen Jewish life.

Women in Philanthropy is about creating connections, forging meaningful relationships, and celebrating the power of women and the difference we can make together. United, we continue to build a community that reflects our values: resilience in the face of adversity, pride in our Jewish identity, compassion for those in need, and unshakable commitment to one another.

Peggy Brown, Barbara Goldenziel, Anna Levin, and Cristina Isaacs

Joan Meltzer Blumkin and Estelle Price

You’re Invited

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

Women in Philanthropy

“This will be a wonderful opportunity for us to join together and continue building the connections that are so important to each of us — as individuals and as a community of women,” says Luncheon Chair Felicia Anchor.

Watch for further details in Federation’s weekly email, ChaiLights.

Luncheon

Tuesday, January 20, 2026 11:30am Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center Featured Speaker

Samantha Ettus

At last January’s Women in Philanthropy Luncheon, attendees were asked, “Who inspired you to become a Woman of Philanthropy?” Many shared that it was other women in our community who motivated them to support Jewish life with both their deeds and their dollars. Below are reflections from several of them.

In Their Own Words

Best Selling Author and Jewish Influencer Scan to Register

or visit https://JFGN.regfox.com/2026wiplunch

WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY

contributor for her insights on the future of work, Samantha refocused her efforts after October 7 to combat antisemitism and mobilize the Jewish community.

She will share her journey with us.

WP

JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER NAPLES

“I became a Woman of Philanthropy because of my friend Judith Friedman. She was the Luncheon hostess, and I wanted to support her. I also love the fact that there is such a strong Jewish community in Naples and want to support my new family.” ~ Dana Strull “I am from Cleveland, Ohio. Philanthropy is in my bones and in the lives of all my family members. Here in Naples, I’ve been inspired by Gail Smith to become involved with the Federation and so I became a Lion of Judah here as well as in Cleveland.” ~ Terri Kline

“Jane Schiff – her dedication to Judaism in Naples, with her smile, h a rd w o r k a n d k n o w l e d g e .” ~ Cristina Isaacs “Cheryl Ginsburg inspired me while we were studying for our B’nai Mitzvah. I had been supportive of Federation in the past, but Cheryl inspired me to become a Lion.” ~ Joan Meltzer Blumkin “Although my mother, Ruth Ann Kronick, was my inspiration for my life — to be kind and generous to all, I must also recognize my motherin-law Toby Mest, who survived as a very young child by running and hiding in Poland, for she taught me how to be strong and resilient. And I also recognize Estelle [Price], Rosalee [Bogo], Paula [Filler], and the other

wonderfully philanthropic women of Naples who introduced me to Federation here!” ~ Carol Mest “. . . Women support. Women teach.

Women care. We are so fortunate here in Naples. We owe it to our grandparents and our children to continue to be an example of how to care and give to others – those who are Jewish and the community at large. This is life. If not giving and doing for others, I would not feel alive.” ~ Susan Gallagher Who might you inspire to become a Woman in Philanthropy?

Consider inviting a friend to join you at the Women in Philanthropy Luncheon — so that she, too, might be inspired.

December 2025

Fed Star

9

ADVERTORIAL

The Benefits of Independent Senior Living Retirement is a time to embrace new opportunities, explore passions, and enjoy the fruits of a lifetime of hard work. For many seniors, choosing the right living environment is crucial to making the most of these golden years.

Independent senior living communities offer an ideal blend of comfort, convenience, and community to fit this need, providing a perfect setting for a fulfilling and vibrant retirement.

The most valuable benefit of retiring in an independent senior living community like Bradford Square is the access to top-notch amenities and services. These communities are designed with the comfort and well-being of residents in mind, offering spacious living spaces equipped to meet seniors’ needs.

From gourmet dining options to fitness centers, residents can spend their retirement in facilities that feel more akin to resorts.

Social interaction is another key component of happy, healthy, and fulfilling retirement lifestyles.

Independent senior living communities foster a strong sense of community by offering a wide range of social activities and events. From group fitness classes and art classes to book clubs and movie nights, there is always something happening to keep residents engaged and connected.

These communities often organize outings to local attractions, such as museums and restaurants, providing residents with opportunities to explore their surroundings and enjoy new experiences outside of home.

The vibrant social scene helps residents build lasting friendships and create a supportive network of peers. Studies have shown that social connection in the senior years can improve health and Maintaining good health is freedom to live their lives on their wellness—senior living communities essential for a fulfilling retirement. own terms, with the added benefit allow for easy access to these benefits. Independent senior living communities of a supportive and caring community.

Retiring in an independent prioritize the health and wellness of This balance of independence and senior living community offers their residents by offering a variety of support allows residents to enjoy their much-needed convenience. Many fitness and wellness programs. From retirement to the fullest, pursuing their communities provide a range of on-site yoga and flexibility classes to cardio and interests and passions without the services, such as housekeeping, valets, strength training, residents have access constraints of traditional senior living and transportation by appointment, to a range of activities designed to keep arrangements. allowing residents to focus on enjoying them active and healthy.

Retiring in an independent their retirement without the burden of Many communities also have senior living community offers a wealth daily chores. Additionally, many on-site wellness centers staffed by of benefits, from unparalleled comfort communities offer concierge service to professionals who can provide routine and amenities to a vibrant social scene assist with everything from greeting health screenings, wellness that focuses on health and wellness. guests to arranging travel plans. consultations, and personalized fitness These communities, including Bradford Safety and security are also top plans. This focus on health and wellness Square, provide the ideal setting for a priorities in these communities. With helps residents maintain their fulfilling and enjoyable retirement, 24-hour security and emergency independence and enjoy a higher allowing seniors to embrace this new response systems in place, residents quality of life. chapter of their lives with confidence can have peace of mind knowing that One of the most crucial aspects and enthusiasm. Call today to plan your help is always available if needed. This of independent senior living visit: 239-316-4144 or visit level of security allows residents to feel communities is the emphasis on BradfordSquareRetirement.com. safe and secure in their new home. independence. Residents have the

Making Spirits Bright The most meaningful gifts of the season aren’t under the tree – they live down the hall.

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10

December 2025

Fed Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

Turning Life Insurance into a Lasting Legacy

By Paula Filler, Life & Legacy Endowment Chair

Y

POMEGRANATE SOCIETY The Pomegranate Society is a sisterhood of women who share a commitment to paying a vital role to support those in need and to building and sustaining a vibrant Jewish community in the Greater Naples area. We care deeply about our local Jewish community and Jews in North America, Israel and around the world.

More than a beautiful piece of jewelry, the Pomegranate pin is a symbol of a woman’s commitment to and compassion for the Jewish people.

Pomegranates are: • Leading by example • Powerful together • Philanthropic and care about making the world a better place

Pomegranates enjoy:

To qualify to wear the Pomegranate Pin, women need to donate $1,800 or more to the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Annual Campaign.

• Exclusive programs and events • Unique mitzvah opportunities • A bond like no other

If you would like more information on becoming a Pomegranate Society Member in Greater Naples, contact 2026 Pomegranate Chair Debra Antzis or call Alicia Feldman, Director of Development, at 239-449-8266.

VER CIRCLE L I S

ou may think of life insurance as simply a way to provide for loved ones. But did you know it can also be a powerful tool to create a meaningful, lasting legacy for the causes closest to your heart — without impacting your current lifestyle?

deduction, provided you itemize. In addition, any future premium payments you make may also be tax deductible.

Why Choose Life Insurance for Giving?

Life insurance allows donors of all ages and income Paula Filler levels to leave a meaningful legacy.

Even a modest policy can transBy naming Jewish Federation of late into a significant future gift. Using life Greater Naples as the charitable beninsurance offers donors a chance eficiary of a life insurance policy — or to leave a meaningful legacy withby donating an existing policy outright out changing their current lifestyle that you no longer need — you can turn or savings. a relatively modest investment into a meaningful future gift. This stratPlanning for Impact egy allows you to make a significant Whether your goal is to honor your impact without affecting your current Jewish values, memorialize a loved lifestyle or financial security. one, or perpetuate your annual gift, life insurance can turn generosity There are two simple options: today into a legacy that strengthens Beneficiary Designation – Naming Jewish life tomorrow.

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples as a beneficiary or partial beneficiary Please consult with your profesof a policy ensures that, when the sional advisor before taking any time comes, the proceeds will help action. As with any significant tax and strengthen Jewish life, support those charitable planning, it is advisable in need, and ensure our Naples Jewish to fully consider potential changes community thrives for generations to within the context of your complete come. This choice is simple, flexible, financial portfolio. and can be updated at any time.

Outright Donation of a Policy – By transferring ownership of an existing policy that you no longer need to the Federation, you may qualify for an immediate charitable income tax

If you would like to explore how life insurance can be part of your Jewish legacy, please contact Alicia Feldman, Director of Development, at afeldman@ jewishnaples.org or 239-449-8266.

Happy Hanukkah! +Y

2

5

EAR

SO

VI F GI

NG

Silver Circle: Celebrating Our Long-Time Donors Save the Date

February 26, 2026 Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center Evan Bernstein, VP Community Relations, Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) joins us to speak about the impactful ways JFNA is using donor support.

Reneé Bialek Director of Programs

T

here is so much happening in our community! This issue of the December Fed Star, contains information about the Communitywide Hanukkah Celebration, the Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival, the Naples Jewish Film Festival, Elliott Katz’s Fall and Winter Lecture Series, a presentation by the Honorable Roy Altman, “Israel on Trial,” an Alta Rockers Concert, a presentation on

the Difference between Medicare vs.

Home Care, and Beading Buddies.

I look forward to seeing our community come together to celebrate Hanukkah on Monday, December 15 at Mercato from 4:30-6:00 p.m. The Klezmer Band will start playing music at 4:30 p.m. Chef Dalia will sell Israeli food.

Melody the Clown will create balloons for the children.

Please visit the various vendors set up along the perimeter of the lawn at Mercato. Each vendor/organization will have something fun for you!

Please register for this free event so we can plan accordingly at JFGN.regfox. com/hanukkah-celebration-2025.

CHANGING YOUR ADDRESS?

Have you—or someone you know—supported Federation for 25+ years? Let us know so we can celebrate your commitment to Jewish philanthropy.

Keep Federation Star coming to your home.

Contact Alicia Feldman, Director of Development, (239) 449-8266 or afeldman@jewishnaples.org to for more information

Email info@jewishnaples.org

JEWISH FEDERATION

December 2025

Fed Star

Silver Circle Member Carole Greene’s Journey of Generosity

By Joan Meltzer Blumkin

W

hen you meet Carole June Greene, you’re struck not just by her grace and warmth, but by the quiet strength of a woman who has spent her life lifting others. At 86, Carole is a Silver Circle Donor whose story is woven with compassion, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose.

Born in Anderson, Indiana to agnostic Jewish parents, Carole grew up with little exposure to Judaism. Her hometown was steeped in Protestant tradition — neighbors were ministers, missionaries, and friends who invited her to church and Bible school. Yet, even as a child, Carole felt a quiet certainty: her soul was Jewish.

It was at her grandmother’s side that Carole first learned the power of giving. Her maternal grandmother

Carole, echoing her grandmother’s legacy, stepped in to help whenever needed, even staying overnight to lend a hand.

Though she was a freelance writer with modest means, Carole began donating to UJA. When a trip to Israel came up, she longed to go but couldn’t afford it. Shirley gave her $1,000 to make it possible. That journey changed Carole’s life. From that moment on, she gave with her whole heart — sometimes sacrificing her own needs to support others.

“Give until it hurts,” she said. And she has — for 38 years.

Carole served on the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Board for 17 years, including time spent on its precursor, the Jewish Council of Collier County Board. She originated

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Phyllis Garon and Carole Greene enjoy a Pomegranate Lunch together. was a force of kindness — cooking meals, baking pies, and delivering them to families facing hardship.

Carole often joined her, witnessing how small gestures could bring comfort and dignity. “Whatever talents you have,” her grandmother taught, “you share them with the world.” That lesson became the foundation of Carole’s life.

At 40, Carole and her husband moved to Noblesville, Indiana, where they ran a wholesale pool business. There, she found an active Jewish community and began a conversion program at Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation. It was a spiritual homecoming.

She embraced her Jewish identity and became a vibrant part of the community.

In 1987, after a life change, Carole moved to Naples — a city she had fallen in love with during a college visit in 1958. She joined Temple Shalom and immediately reached out to the United Jewish Appeal (UJA), where she met volunteer Shirley Levy.

The two became close friends, and

the Federation Star, served as its editor for five years, and now beams with pride at how it has evolved. She believes Federation and its affinity groups are “a gem in our backyard,” offering meaningful programs that touch lives.

Today, Carole continues to give.

She volunteers with Meals of Hope, coordinates Temple Shalom’s Spiritual Care team, visiting hospitalized Jewish patients. She has been a cornerstone of the Jewish Book Festival since its inception. She also writes book reviews for the Fed Star and cherishes the friendships she’s built through her service.

Beyond her community work, Carole finds joy in her family, three children in Indiana, two grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. It’s clear she’s passed on the values of kindness, generosity, and service.

Thank you, Carole June Greene, for showing us what it means to live a life of purpose. Your legacy is a light in our community.

AT THE HEART OF OUR COMMUNITY LIES A VIBRANT CULINARY EXPERIENCE.

INDEPENDENT LIVING | A SSISTED LIVING | MEMORY C ARE

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12

Fed Star

December 2025

JEWISH FEDERATION

Israel on Trial

By Reneé Bialek, JFGN Director of Programs

D

2025-2026

Greater Naples

Jewish BOOK Festival Join us for the 11th Annual Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival

OPENING EVENT by Back r la u p o P nd a m De

Twice

by Mitch Albom

has t n ve s e oved i h T n m LE bee EMP T to ALOM SH

Alfie has a secret gift. But he’s paid a price.

If you could relive any — or every — moment in your life, would you?

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Journal . After law school, he clerked on the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals for The Honorable S t a n l e y M a rc u s .

Judge Altman then became a federal prosecutor at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Miami, where he twice received the The Honorable Director of the ExecOnApril 4, 2019,JudgeAltman Roy K. Altman utive Office of U.S. was confirmed to a seat on Attorneys’ Award for Superior Perthe U.S. District Court for the Southern formance by a Federal Prosecutor.

District of Florida. At 36, he became the youngest federal district court In 2013, Judge Altman was named judge in the country — and the young“Federal Prosecutor of the Year” est federal judge ever appointed by the Miami-Dade Chiefs of Police in the Southern District of Florida. and the Law Enforcement Officers’ Charitable Foundation.

Judge Altman received a BA from Columbia University, where he In 2014, Judge Altman became a played quarterback on the football partner at the Miami law firm of team and pitched for the baseball Podhurst Orseck, where he repreteam, earning All-Ivy honors. Judge sented victims of airplane crashes Altman received his JD from the and bank fraud conspiracies.

Yale Law School, where he was projects editor of the Yale Law

on’t miss this special opportunity to hear The Honorable Roy K. Altman, author of Israel on Trial: Examining the History, the Evidence, and the Law, speak on his book. This free and highly relevant conversation is presented by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, MCA and WCA.

BOOK DISCUSSION WITH

The Honorable Roy K. Altman Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Monday, December 1 • 7:00 PM • $45 Temple Shalom (includes one signed book)

Platinum Patrons will be invited to a private pre-event reception with Mitch Albom.

DON’T MISS OUR JANUARY EVENTS: Monday, January 12 1:00 PM • $30

One in Six Million

by Amy Fish

Wednesday, January 28 1:00 PM • $30

Legacy of Lies

by Lew Paper

To become a Patron or to purchase individual tickets: jewishbookfestival.org of Greater Naples

OUR 33rd SEASON!

NAPLES COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA SEASON 2026

International Feast January 24 Mediterranean Mezza February 21 Opera à la Carte March 21 Germanfest April 11 French Suites

Artistic Director Dr. Alvin Ho

All concerts held at Moorings Presbyterian Church 791 Harbour Drive, Naples at 3:00pm Reception follows each concert

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! www.naplescommunityorchestra.org $45/Single ticket • $145/Series • Students free of charge

JEWISH FEDERATION

December 2025

Fed Star

13

ADVERTORIAL

Don’t Allow Pests To Cause Hanukkah Blues

by Anna Wallace, Truly Nolen

With Hanukkah just around the corner, there remains plenty of time to finish grocery shopping and food prep before friends and family arrive to celebrate together.

Meanwhile, roaches, rodents, and ants enjoy seizing the opportunity to make themselves known once your guests have gone home.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to help keep these pests from ruining the rest of your upcoming holiday season.

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. Much like your invited holiday guests, these uninvited insects require three things: water, food, and warm shelter.

Meanwhile, ants will eat practically any kind of food, but are especially attracted to sweets as they supply a large amount of energy to the relatively small ants. While most ants are considered harmless, an ant infestation can be a major nuisance and may be difficult to control. When ants find a food source is in your home, you can count on them quickly entering your home through the smallest cracks and crevices.

Rodents such as mice are often common household pets, but in the wild they can become very bothersome household pests.

They can sneak into homes through a hole about the size of a dime in order to find food or shelter from their natural outdoor habitats.

Once inside, mice make their homes in quite spaces out of spare materials, such as string and insulation. After entering your home, their diet consists of any spare food, but in nature they typically eat grains, seeds and sweets. Mice do not need to regularly drink water because they obtain it from the moisture in their food.

Because all three of these pests are looking for food in your home, there are definitely some ways to prevent an outbreak before you may need a pest control professional.

These ways include eliminating water (do not let water stand in sinks and eliminate outside collection areas), eliminating food sources (dispose garbage as soon as possible following your meal, pack leftovers properly, and wipe off counter tops often), and eliminate harborages (discard unnecessary cardboard boxes and pull mulch away from your home). Ultimately, in the event of a major infestation, a pest control professional can help with actual exclusion techniques to

block off and seal possible entryways especially for ants and rodents.

By following these simple steps, the chances of these unwanted pests arriving unannounced to your holiday meal will TRULY decrease. We encourage you to pack leftovers with secure lids, clean any clutter following your meal, and take out all of your properly bagged garbage as soon as you can to help keep pests away well past the holiday season!

As a reminder, you can always request a FREE inspection by calling us or by visiting www.trulynolen.com and clicking “Schedule Free Inspection.”

(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 how we can help you keep your home protected from pests, please visit https://www.trulynolen.com/pest-control/.)

We’ll take care of the pests, So you can enjoy your guests.

Call Now!

239•494•3544

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*Applicable to new annual service agreement.

PEST•TERMITE•RODENT•LAWN•INSULATION

14

Fed Star

December 2025

JEWISH FEDERATION

Roaring Start for IOC Speaker Series

By Myra Benedikt, Israel and Overseas Committee (IOC) Chair

T

he Sharon and Paul Stein Israel and Overseas 202526 Speaker Series got off to a rousing start on October 27, with nearly 250 attendees — a record turnout — hearing timely insights from Herb Keinon, a veteran American Israeli journalist for The Jerusalem Post.

and Haaretz columnist Dahlia Scheindlin.

Myra Benedikt

Keinon’s topic “The Trump-Netanyahu equation: A new chapter in an old alliance,” touched upon the recent release of the hostages, the ceasefire, global ramifications of the peace deal, and much more.

This was Keinon’s third visit to our Federation, with each offering fresh observations and analysis.

The next event in the Stein 2025-26 Speaker Series falls o n We d n e s d a y, December 3, at 3 p.m., when we will be joined by author, political strategist,

Scheindlin will be visiting us from Philadelphia, where she is spending the academic year as a Penn Global Middle East Distinguished Visting Scholar at the University of Pennsylvania.

A leading expert on political trends in Israel, public opinion research, and conflict resolution, her topic will be “ Wa r, p o l i t i c s a n d peace: A better solution for the Israeli Palestinian conflict.”

Herb Keinon

Scheindlin will explore the shifting political landscape, public sentiment, and future peace prospects, helping us understand the current climate in Israel and how public opinion has evolved over time. The discussion will provide critical analysis and pathways forward in a time of deep uncertainty and transformation in the region.

Israel Day & Jewish Advocacy Day in Tallahassee A Two-Day Mission of Unity, Advocacy & Action

A Tel-Aviv based, AmericanIsraeli political consultant, pollster, journalist, scholar, and author, Scheindlin has advised and done research on eight national campaigns in Israel for more than 20 years, and has provided research and advising for elections, referendums, and civil society campaigns in 15 different countries and regions (Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Egypt, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Kosovo, Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Ukraine, the United States, and Zanzibar).

As an independent consultant, she conducts extensive public opinion and policy research on the IsraeliPalestinian conflict and on the peace process (including working for Prime Minister Ehud Barak during the Camp David negotiations in 2000). She also consults on the issues of democracy, human rights, minority relations, religious identity, Arab-Jewish relations, and foreign affairs. She conducts the ongoing joint Israeli-Palestinian public opinion survey together with the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research.

Scheindlin is a founding member of +972 Magazine.

She co-hosts the podcast The Tel Aviv Review on TLV1 Radio, together with Gilad Halpern, and co-hosted a podcast on the 2021 Israeli elections with Anshel Pfeffer at the newspaper Haaretz. Dahlia has written for The New York Times, Washington Post, The Guardian, Time , and other publications. She is a frequent commentator for international media, including CNN, BBC, Al Jazeera,

Myra Benedikt, Herb Keinon, and Sharon and Paul Stein France 24, CBC, and AFP. She is a fellow at Century International, based in Tel Aviv, and the author of The Crooked Timber of Democracy in Israel, published in September 2023.

Scheindlin completed her PhD in political science at Tel Aviv University. She has taught as an adjunct lecturer at Tel Aviv University, Ben Gurion University, the Jezreel Valley College, and at Eastern Mediterranean University in Northern Cyprus. She has lectured at many prominent universities, including Columbia, Oxford, Harvard, Princeton, University of Pennsylvania, Ameri0can University, and George Washington University.

We hope to see you for what is sure to be an engaging afternoon with yet another compelling expert on Israel affairs — right here at home.

Join Jewish leaders, advocates and allies from Greater Naples and across Florida for a powerful two-day experience in the heart of our state’s capital.

• Promote understanding of Florida-Israel relations • Educate attendees on state-level legislative priorities • Advocate for Jewish community interests • Showcase Israeli innovation

Visit jewishpb.org/israeldaysflyin for more information and to register. $199 per person.

GIVE YOUR BUSINESS GIVE YOUR BUSINESS GROWTH POTENTIAL. GROWTH POTENTIAL. ADVERTISE WITH ADVERTISE WITH

RSVP Deadline: December 22, 2025 Organized by the Palm Beach Center to Combat Antisemitism & Hatred in Partnership with the Israeli Consulate of Florida, the Jewish Agency for Israel, the Florida Legislative Jewish Caucus and Jewish Federations statewide:

Contact Joy Walker at Robin Leonardi • 941.552.6307 • rleonardi@jfedsrq.org 941-284-0520 or www.TheJewishNews.org

Greater Miami Jewish Federation • Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida Jewish Federation of Broward County Jewish Federation of Greater Naples • Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties • Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County • Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County Tampa Jewish Community Centers & Federation The Jewish Federation of Florida’s Gulf Coast • The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

walkerjoy62@yahoo.com.

JEWISH FEDERATION

December 2025

Fed Star

15

2025 Community-wide Hanukkah Celebration Schedule of events

By Renee Bialek, Federation Program Director

J

oin us for our annual Community-wide Hanukkah Celebration at the Mercado on Monday, Dec.15. The following is our planned celebration schedule.

At 4:30 p.m., the Naples Klezmer Band will entertain us with their core repertoire of traditional Eastern European (“Ashkenazi”) music of the 16th to 19th centuries, with Sephardic, Israeli, and adaptations of the music of the synagogue and the Yiddish theater included.

At 5:00 p.m., Charlie Blum, our Emcee, takes the stage!

At 5:30 p.m., dancers from Dance Arts by Maria will perform a Hanukkah Medley, "Ocho Kandelikas."

At 5:45 p.m., Dana Wexler, Singer and Karen Alpert on guitar will invite all children to join her near the stage to sing some favorite Hanukkah children songs.

At 5:50 p.m., We will light theMenorah.

Visit Our Vendors

• BBYO teen youth: fun games • Beading Buddies: handmade beaded jewelry for sale

• Beth Tikvah: giveaways and a game to play • Chef Dalia: delicious Israeli latkes, sufganiyot (Israel jelly donuts), babka, and challah bread for sale • Collier County Sheriff's Office: safety information, questions answered, and giveaways • Collier/Lee Hadassah: membership information along with chocolate Hanukkah Gelt • Discovery Village of Naples Independent Living: Stop by and learn more about our beautiful 55+ community. Our stress-free lifestyle offers dining, fitness, social events and fun.

• GenShoah & Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center: Museum materials and giveaways • Jewish Federation of Greater Naples: materials about Men and Women's Philanthropy, JCRC, and JFGN. Will hand out water bottles.

• Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida and Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance: latke pitching game for all to play • Jewish National Fund-USA: toys and stamps & ink pads to create Israel-themed art for all ages; distributing blue boxes to bring the holiness of tzedakah into your home

• Jewish Volunteer Ambulance Corps Naples: checking vitals and giving out materials • Jewish War Veterans • Melody the Clown: free BalloonTwisting animals for children • Men’s Cultural Alliance: giveaways • Naples Jewish Congregation: face painting and an opportunity to make your own edible dreidels • North Collier Fire Truck • PJ Library: fun games and giveaways • The Technion-Israel Institute of Technology: Hanukkah gift bags

with dreidels & gelt, informational pamphlets • Temple Shalom Sisterhood’s Judaica Shop: Hanukkah and other Judaica items for sale • Temple Shalom & YESh Preschool, Temple Shalom Sisterhood, and Temple Shalom Men’s Club • Women’s Cultural Alliance: Spin the Dreidel to win fun prizes; complimentary WCA swag For more information, please email me at rbialek@jewishnaples.org.

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13TH ANNUAL NAPLES JEW Presenting the best and brightest cinematic mome

ALL FILMS SHOWN AT THE NAPLES PLAYERS Sugden Community Theatre 701 5th Avenue South, Naples, Florida Complimentary Valet Parking on 4h Avenue South (behind the theater)

TAKE A LOOK AT TH

ONCE UPON MY MOTHER

THE RING

French Drama with English Subtitles, 102 mins

Israeli Drama, Hebrew/Hungarian with English Subtitles, 110 min

MONDAY, January 26, 2026 • 7 PM

THE STAM

American Document

SUNDAY, Marc

MONDAY, February 2, 2026 • 7 PM Based on the bestselling autobiography, this exuberant and heart rending film pays tribute to the love like no other - a mother's love for her child.

This film absolutely smashed the French box office, counting over 1.5 million admissions!

An impressive film that manages to surprise in the best way. Based on a true and deeply human story, this film touches on an important historical subject while intertwining a heartfelt family drama spanning three generations.

“Seinfeld” producer Gary Gil stolen from victims of the Holo This real-life mission is part d and a small but powerful a

Following the film, NJF the film’s Producer an Crime- Dan Stu

Than

Become a Film Festival Patron! www.naplesjewishfilmfestival.com PATRON TICKETS go on Sale NOVEMBER 24, 2025

Presented by: of Greater Naples

WISH FILM FESTIVAL 2026 nts from newly released Israeli and Jewish cinema.

BECOME A FILM FESTIVAL PATRON! www.naplesjewishfilmfestival.com PATRON TICKETS go on Sale NOVEMBER 24, 2025

HIS YEAR’S LINEUP:

MP THIEF

MIDAS MAN

THE SEA

tary, English, 103 mins

British Docudrama, English, 112 mins

ch 8, 2026 • 7 PM

MONDAY, March 16, 2026 • 7 PM

Israeli Drama, Arabic/Hebrew with English Subtitles, 93 mins

SUNDAY, March 22, 2026 • 7 PM

lbert seeks to recover stamps ocaust by a rogue Nazi officer. detective story, part heist film, act of historical reckoning.

FF is excited to present nd the film’s Partner in urman, for Q&A.

To kick off the night in style, the NJFF is thrilled to welcome a fantastic Beatles tribute band who will perform before the film begins!

The story of Epstein and The Beatles is brought to life with humor, drama, and passion throughout.

The film captures society as it was in the 1960s and the real sense of Epstein having found something truly special in the four Beatles.

ON STAGE AT

nks to our SPONSORS:

What makes this a special film is its courage to tell a deeply human story set against one of the most complex backdrops in the world. The story of an Palestinian 12 year old boy from the West Bank who just wants to visit the Mediterranean sea with his classmates is complex and resonating.

This film gives space for both pain and resilience for differences and connections which is why Israel chose it as its entry for the 2026 Oscars.

SENSORY BOOTH AVAILABLE

Tonight's film will open with the documenA TNP AC A D E Mshort Y PERFORMANCE T UE SDAY tary “Making Awareness”.

DEC. 9 The story of two Israeli We are grateful to these businesses and organizations s ur Yo ly al rtu street artists who spread Vi or their support of the 2019-20 Greater Naples Jewish Book TFestival: Greater Naples HE KIZZIE THEATER THE KIZZIE THEATER awareness through their Jewish Book eFestival 2020-21 “Kidnapped from Israel” Celebrate the holidays with Little Women: The Musical.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s worldwide musical phenomenon poster campaign on the A timeless tale of love, family, and resilience following comes to life as the Jellicle cats sing, dance, and *As of October 13th NYC streets to aid in the March sisters’ inspiring journey. This cherished dream under the moonlight. Performed by the young classic reimagined as a musical is the perfect way artists of TNP Academy, this magical show is perfect omen’s the release of the to embrace the season! for the whole family. ultural October 7th hostages.

SHOW SPONSORED BY: 72 SEASON PRESENTED BY: lliance TIC

Jewish Book Festival Sponsors RELAXED PERFORMANCE

NOV 19-DEC 21

DEC 06-DEC 15

W C A

ND

Thank You to Our Sponsors* SPONSORED BY:

KE TS

$25

Business Supporters:

SHOWTIMES: WED.-SAT. - 7:30 P.M. • SUNDAYS - 2 P.M. | TICKETS: $46-$57

Sisterhood Temple Shalom

Strengthening our temple, our community and each other

70 1 FIF TH AV ENUE SOU TH | N A PLE S, FL

239.263.7990

NaplesPlayers.org

Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival is presented by:

Following "The Sea", NJFF is excited to present the Director of Making Awareness, Susan Wasserman, to talk about the story behind and making of her short film.

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T I C K E T S Daymaker Hair Salon

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Fed Star

December 2025

JEWISH FEDERATION jewishbookfestival.org

GREATER NAPLES JEWISH BOOK FESTIVAL

Enjoy the Benefits of Becoming a Jewish Book Festival Patron

By Robin Mintz, Volunteer Chair, Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival

A

t the time of writing this article, we are only one month away from the start of our 11th annual Jewish Book Festival and the anticipation is growing! The Festival will showcase an outstanding collection of books and authors, as we expose our community to a wide variety of genres.

with noted author Mitch Albom. Due to the overwhelming demand for tickets, we moved this event to Temple Shalom so we can accommodate everyone. The remaining events will be at the Nina Iser Jewish cultural Center. But don’t worry, there is still time to become a Robin Mintz Patron of the Jewish Book Festival and reap all the benefits.

Being a Patron of the Greater Naples The season will kick off next month, Jewish Book Festival is certainly a win-win! The financial contributions on Monday evening, December 1

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from Patrons enable Federation to bring an outstanding array of authors to all of us and help to build a stronger Jewish community overall.

that your financial support is integral to the success of the Jewish Book Festival, Patrons receive several other benefits. You will be preregistered for each event; you simply sign up once. All Patrons will be acknowledged in the Fed Star as well as on the Jewish Book Festival webpage.

Unlike “everyone else,” you won’t have to individually register for each event.

I am proud to share with you that as of the end of October, 330 community members have become Patrons of the Jewish Book Festival.

T h i s re c o rd breaking number is a strong Platinum Patrons will affirmation be given preferred that our comreserved seatmunity considing at all events. In ers the Festival addition, they will a highly-valued receive an invitacomponent of tion to attend an o u r Fe d e ra intimate pre-event tion’s cultural Meet & Greet with programming.

Mitch Albom, and Jewish Book get their copy of his Festival events book, Twice, signed bring our comMitch Albom and personalized. munity together and keeps us engaged with exemplary literary programming that Silver Patrons will have reserved celebrates authors and their sigseating at all events and will also nificant contributions to Jewish life receive Mitch Albom’s book. and culture.

Bronze Patrons are given a sigThere are three levels of Patron: nificant savings in receiving entry to Platinum at $500, Silver at $250 and all the events in the Festival. They Bronze at $150. The generosity of will also receive a copy of Mitch Albom’s book. our Patrons underwrites our Jewish Book Festival. In addition, money How do I become a Patron? raised helps our Federation to fulSimply check the appropriate box fill its mission of building a vibrant on the JBF RegJewish community istration Form in Greater Naples 2025-2026 and supporting Greater Naples on the webpage: JewishBook t h e s o c i a l s e rFestival.org. It’s vice needs of the that easy! If you Jewish people in are not already our community, in a Patron, I hope North America, in that you will conIsrael and around s i d e r b e co m the world. of Greater Naples ing one for the Why should 2025-26 Jewish I become a Book Festival.

Jewish BOOK Festival

Patron?

Along with knowing

FEDERATI N MEMBERSHIP

According to the bylaws of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, members are those individuals who make an annual gift of $72 or more to the Annual Federation Community Campaign.

For more information, please call the Federation office at 239-263-4205.

JEWISH FEDERATION

December 2025

Fed Star

Your guests will appreciate your choice of venues.

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December 2025

Fed Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

Alta Rockers Concert

By Ken Anchor, Band Member

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n Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, at 4 p.m. at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, this high energy, live music event will be a fun experience returning us to the good ole days when we sang along with our favorite tunes.

This year’s concert will highlight familiar Jewish composers. The setlist of popular songs includes some of your favorites as well as some that may surprise you. No need to depend on your memory as lyrics will be prominently displayed along with special visual art.

All that is required is that you join with the Alta Rockers and be prepared to sing with gusto and maybe dance a little too. Previous concerts have met with rave reviews and have been filled to capacity. So, join the band on Sunday, January 18 at 4 p.m.

The event is free and open to the community. Please register soon at JewishNaples.org/Alta26.

The Alta Rockers: (Back Row) Larry Israelite (learning technologist), Frank Muller (rabbi), Ken Anchor (psychology professor), Andy Ichel (engineer), Sam Miller (business owner).

(Front Row) Harry Chertok (educator), Founder Don Belmont (physician), Ken Brown (business president), Randy Solomon (trial attorney), Buzz Cohen (physician). Not Pictured: Alex Wertheim (social worker)

Beading Buddies prepares for the holidays

By Carol Hirsch

T

he Beading Buddies have been hard at work. In December, our beaders will support the Shop with a Sheriff event,

an endowed event co-sponsored

by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and the Collier County Sheriff's department. Children in Collier

Introducing the JeWEL Society Jewish Women Emerging Leaders

County schools are chosen to participate in this exciting program. Each of the 80-100 children are paired with a sheriff to go shopping with in Walmart for Christmas gifts for their families. The children’s purchases are paid for through the program.

In addition, each child is given a gift bag with beaded jewelry and a roll of wrapping paper.

Beading Buddies meets once or twice a month at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

Jewish Mom’s

MONTHLY

$118.00 DONATION

annually to Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

NIGHT OUT Leave the kids at home and join us for a fun night of good food and lots of laughter

We will meet at 10 a.m. on the following dates: Monday, Dec. 9; and Tuesday, Dec. 16.

of Greater Naples

https://www.jewishnaples.org/families-with-children

Please JOIN TODAY!

Beading Buddies is a fun, free group.

Donations are accepted to purchase more supplies. If you have jewelry you no longer want, consider donating it to Beading Buddies, and our beaders will use it to create something new.

For more information, contact Carol Hirsch at chirsch1951@gmail.com.

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This FREE Guide provides an overview of both options to help you determine the best choice for your future.

Members take the lead in ensuring a vibrant Jewish Community in Naples for generations to come

Jewish Women Emerging Leaders

We will meet from 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. on the following dates: Wednesday, Jan. 14; Tuesday, Feb. 24; Wednesday, March 11 and March 18; Wednesday, April 22; and Thursday, May 7.

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JEWISH FEDERATION

December 2025

Fed Star

21

Five Films, Countless Stories Experience the magic of the Naples Jewish Film Festival

By Stacey Baum and Andy Mintz, Co-Chairs, Naples Jewish Film Festival Committee

T

he Naples Jewish Film Festival (NJFF) is proud to announce its return for an exciting 13th season — and this year, the Festival is coming home to its original venue: The Naples Players at the Sugden Community Theatre, located on prestigious Fifth Avenue in the heart of downtown Naples.

New! Choose Your Seat

Over the years, the NJFF has become a cherished tradition for Greater Naples audiences, offering a compelling lineup of films that explore Jewish life, Israeli culture, heritage, and universal themes of identity, resilience, and community. Many past films have premiered at major international festivals in Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem, bringing authentic voices and storytelling from across the Jewish world.

Tickets!

Save the 2026 Festival Dates • Monday, Jan. 26 • Monday, Feb. 2 • Sunday, March 8 • Monday, March 16 • Sunday, March 22

All screenings begin at 7:00 p.m. This year, there will be free valet parking on 4th Avenue South, prior to start of the event.

A brand-new ticketing platform now allows Patrons to purchase and reserve the exact seat of their choice for the entire festival. Whether you prefer the front row, an aisle seat, center stage, or balcony views — your perfect seat is waiting for you.

Tickets can be purchased at: jewishnaples.org/naples-jewishfilm-festival or through the weekly eblast, ChaiLights.

Ticket Release Dates

Mark your calendars! By purchasing tickets at the higher levels, you will have earlier access to when you can buy your tickets and priority seat selection. Early purchase is encouraged — seats are expected to sell out quickly!

• E xe c u t i ve & Director Levels – Wednesday, November 26 • Festival Friends – Monday, December 1 • Season Passes – Monday, December 8 • Individual Tickets – Monday, January 5, 2026

Films! Films! Films!

This year’s film selection team had the difficult task of narrowing down a remarkable list of entries — and after much deliberation, they’ve chosen five outstanding films for you to enjoy.

The festival will showcase awardwinning works from around the world — from Budapest, England, Israel, Argentina, and Germany — offering a diverse range of storytelling that spans historical narratives to intimate dramas and everything in between. Featured films include: Once Upon My Mother, The Sea, and The Stamp Thief — with its acclaimed director, Dan Sturman, joining us as a special guest speaker. Audiences

will also be treated to Midas Man, accompanied by a live Beatles tribute band, and The Ring, a powerful Holocaust drama that promises to leave a lasting impression.

An unforgettable season

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or attending for the first time, the Naples Jewish Film Festival offers something for everyone with this new season of unforgettable stories.

From moving portrayals of Israeli life and heartfelt Jewish family stories to comedies that explore tradition with humor and heart, our films aim to reflect, inspire, and bring people together.

We tell a story.

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December 2025

Fed Star

Let’s Play!

The Matzah Ball 2025

By Michael Rubenstein, Matzah Ball Chair

H

Young Professionals), teachers, first responders, students, and others. For confidential consideration, reach out to Alicia Feldman, Director of Development, at afeldman@ jewishnaples.org.

anukkah is right around the corner, which means one thing: it’s almost time for the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples’ 4th Annual Matzah Ball — and this year, we’re turning up the fun with a retro game night twist!

Sponsorship Opportunities

Want to level up your impact and visibility? Sponsorships are available at these playful levels:

On Saturday, December 6 at 7:00 p.m., the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center will transform into the ultimate holiday party zone. Expect plenty of food, drinks, dancing, and nostalgic game-night vibes as we celebrate Hanukkah together. Whether you come solo, as a couple, or with a whole crew, the Matzah Ball is the can’t-miss event for Jewish singles, couples, and friends 55 and under.

Local Urban Artist, Dani Papanikolaou, celebrates with festive Matzah Ballers

What’s on the Menu?

• Delicious bites from Sage Events & Catering • Unstoppable beats by DJ Rebel (get ready for a packed dance floor!)

• Retro game-inspired décor that will set the scene for a night of play

• Name recognition at event and marketing For sponsorship details, contact Eduardo Avila, Campaign Associate, at eavila@jewishnaples.org.

Sophie Jaffe, Morgan Fishbein and Anna Wells

Tickets sales are live now!

Visit jewishfederation.org/Matzah Ball25. General admission is $150 per person.

$5,000 – Matzah Baller • 8 complimentary tickets • Presenting title sponsor recognition • Advertisement in the Fed Star • Name recognition at event and marketing

Scholarship tickets are available for Tribe members (formerly Jewish

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$2,000 – Latke Sponsor • 4 complimentary tickets • Advertisement in the Fed Star • Name recognition at event and marketing $1,000 – Dreidel Sponsor • 2 complimentary tickets • Advertisement in the Fed Star • Name recognition at event and marketing $500 – Gelt Sponsor • 2 complimentary tickets

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Thank You to Our “Matzah Ballers” Committee!

This event wouldn’t happen without the creativity, energy, and dedication of our planning team: Daryl Berg, Marianna Clark, Hailey Dalby, Max Deifik, Alicia Feldman, Mia Hyatt, Fabiana Kivilevic, Julie Smith, Susan Solomon, and Jennifer Suden.

So, grab your best holiday party outfit, dust off your dancing shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable evening. It’s game time at the 2025 Matzah Ball — Let’s Play!

Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center Title Sponsor

Dreidel Sponser

Gelt Sponsers Deborah & Mat Levitsky

Tickets on sale now! $150 pp Don’t wait!

JewishNaples.org/MatzahBall25

Susan Solomon, Cantor Donna Azu, Julie and Gil Forsher, and Joel Hyatt

December 2025

Fed Star

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Fed Star

December 2025

JEWISH FEDERATION

The birth of Nostra Aetate Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County

By Rabbi A. James Rudin, former senior interreligious adviser for the American Jewish Committee

S

ixty years ago, an extraordinary global religious “game changer” took place in Rome.

At the conclusion of the Second Vatican Council in October 1965, after three years of intense deliberation and debate, the world’s Roman Catholic bishops voted overwhelmingly to adopt the historic declaration titled “Nostra Aetate (In Our Time).” The proclamation, promulgated by Pope Paul VI, set in motion a revolution of the human spirit and sparked a serious and systematic effort by the Catholic Church to transform its past bitter relationships with Jews and Judaism.

The groundbreaking document is the focus of a special two-day symposium on Dec. 6-7, that will be held at Ave Maria University and the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center (see box).

The declaration rejected the ancient lethal and odious charge that Jews were “Christ killers.” (It was the Roman occupiers of the land of Judea who executed Jesus). The declaration also specifically called for “mutual understanding and respect” and the establishment of “biblical and theological studies” as well as “fraternal dialogues” between Catholics and Jews.

In 1965, it was understood that future generations of Catholics and Jews would be required to give life and meaning to the tightly worded declaration, but a solid, hard-won foundation had been laid. In fact, the past 60 years have seen more positive relations between Roman Catholics and Jews than in the first 1,900-plus years of the church’s existence.

While the vote in 1965 was overwhelming, a year earlier it seemed clear to many observers that any constructive groundbreaking statement on Catholic-Jewish relations was doomed. Various versions of such a document had stalled in the Vatican Council’s drafting committee, despite the strong support of Popes John XXIII and Paul VI for systemic changes within the world’s largest Christian community.

Faced with that dire possibility, just 20 years after the murderous Holocaust in the heart of what Pope John Paul II called “Christian Europe,” many American Catholic leaders became alarmed.

Cardinal Richard James Cushing, then archbishop of Boston, was fearful no action would be taken on the critical issues of deicide and antisemitism.

He felt an urgent need to express

FALL 2025

Elliott Katz Lecture Series

his concerns in person in Rome. The cardinal’s remarks, given in St. Peter’s Basilica on Sept. 28, 1964, were delivered in Latin with Cushing’s raspy, heavy New England accent.

In a time of increased acts of antisemitism in the United States, Europe and other parts of the world, Cushing’s words resonate today, more than a half-century later: “How many (Jews) have suffered in our own time?

How many died because Christians were indifferent or kept silent? If in recent years, not many Christian

voices were raised against those injustices, at least let ours now be heard in humility.”

Thanks in great part to the efforts of Cushing and other American Catholic leaders, exactly 13 months after Cushing’s speech, the Vatican Council did, in fact, “… make a fitting declaration” that would not have happened without the Boston cardinal’s leadership.

Editor’s Note: A version of this article was originally published by Religion News Service.

SYMPOSIUM DETAILS The Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County is hosting a free, two-day symposium on “Nostra Aetate at 60” during the weekend of Dec. 6-7, with sessions at both Ave Maria University and the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

The program brings together a panel of distinguished theologians and professors from across North America – including Rabbi Rudin to discuss the landmark document that changed 20 centuries of Catholic-Jewish relations, and its impact on our lives.

To register for this free community event visit https://jfgn.regfox.com/nostra-aetate-60th-anniversary.

Jewish-Russian Cultural Alliance Upcoming Events

By Marina Berkovich, JCRA Director

Wednesdays, Nov. 5 & 19 @ 10-11:30AM Wednesday, Nov. 12 @ 9:30AM - 11AM Wednesdays, Dec. 3, 10, 17 @ 10-11:30AM

Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center 25 per lecture or attend all 6 for 110

Nov. 5 @ 10AM: Oh Canada, Where is your Shame?

Nov. 12 @ 9:30AM: We Will Always Have Casablanca Nov. 19 @ 10AM: Armenia, A Real Genocide Dec. 3 @ 10AM: Sacco & Vanzetti, Fathers of Anarchy in the U.S. Dec. 10 @ 10AM: Why Isn’t Anne Here?

Dec. 17 @ 10AM: The Greek Princess and the Greek Bishop,

P

lease mark your calendars and join us at these upcoming events hosted by the JewishRussian Cultural Alliance (JRCA).

Two-Event Major Fundraiser – Do not miss these special events during the month of January — Florida Jewish History Month.

Soviet Jewry Movement and the Moon – December 18, 3 p.m. (a Zoom presentation). The life of presenter Norm Winski’s uncle, Abe Silverstein, reads like a spy story. A top engineer and manager from the days of NASA’s predecessor, NACA, he helped send men to the moon – then retired and devoted himself to freeing Soviet Jewry, a mission that was, in its own way, like traveling into the unknown.

Event 1: SWFL Jewish History Luncheon, Sunday, January 4, from 12:00 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Marcia Jo Zerivitz’s mesmerizing “Jews of Florida” lecture; previously filmed. Discover fascinating historical facts and follow the trail of Florida Jewish history that Marcia Jo helped to create in our state.

Scan to Register

Don’t miss this unique event, brought to you jointly with the Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida.

Or visit jewishnaples.org/EliottKatz26

Register for this free event at https:// www.jhsswf.org/upcoming-events/ to receive the Zoom link.

Event 2: Premiere of a New Film, A Jewish Visionary: Jane Schiff, from the TELLY-AWARDS Winning Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers Series is scheduled for Thursday, January 22, at 2 p.m. Learn more about the incredible Jane Schiff and her parents, whose names are on the dedication plaque of the centerpiece artwork at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

JRCA Hanukkah Celebration – Sunday, December 28, 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Join us for a festive community meal! Email jrca@jewishnaples.org for details.

Fundraiser ticket: $85 admits one person to both events. Go to https:// www.jhsswf.org/upcoming-events/.

Both events will be held at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

Righteous Among the Nations

Presented by

JEWISH FEDERATION

December 2025

Fed Star

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Where every brick builds community

By Eduardo Avila, Campaign Associate

A

dd a name to a commemorative brick at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center and help

create a path that honors our past and welcomes our future.

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)

P R E PA R E TO B E A M A Z E D !

An Enchanting Evening with World-Famous Magician Joshua Jay Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Presents: World-famous magician Joshua Jay brings his internationally acclaimed illusions and mind-bending sleight of hand to Naples for one magical day only!

Two Shows Only on Sunday, February 1, 2026 2:00 PM Matinée Followed by a Dessert Reception Tickets: $100 per person

5:00 PM Evening Show Followed by an elegant Wine & Cheese Reception Tickets: $125 per person Check-in begins 30 minutes before each show Adult-appropriate entertainment Seating limited to 150 guests per show—reserve early Scan to Register or visit www.jewishnaples.org/JoshuaJay26

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Fed Star

December 2025

Fun For Every Age PJ Library

By Hailey Dalby, Jewish Youth & Family Program Manager

P

J Library provides the opportunity for Jewish children from birth through12 years old to receive FREE books! Expertly curated Jewish stories are delivered monthly to each participant. Books are chosen based on each child’s age as well as the current holiday and season. After the age of eight, children enroll in PJ Our Way, which allows each individual to select their own book monthly. This allows eight through 12-year-olds to choose a book that is tailored to their special interests, with a Jewish twist! But PJ Library is more than just books!

readers and families feel included! It is never too late to attend your first PJ Library event.

In addition to our monthly Fed Star, we have two more ways to keep you up to date on all PJ Library ongoings! “Follow” and “like” our Facebook page (facebook.com/ PJLibraryNaplesFL) and read our monthly emails that we send, which provide a snapshot of current PJ activities and other fun information.

To subscribe to our emails, please scan the QR code!

We feel very strongly that passing Our local PJ Family is a vibrant down Jewish stories is a multi-gencommunity that gathers for reguerational experience. From tradilar events and get-togethers! It tions to family history, the role of a grandparent is irreplaceable. That is is at these events where family friendships are why grandparforged and ents can enroll solidified, to re ce i ve a …grandparents can free PJ Library making our enroll to receive a free book to read Jewish comPJ Library book to read w i t h t h e i r munity closer and stronger! with their grandchildren grandchildren.

If you and/or These events your family are provide safe, interested, contact Hailey Dalby, family-centric programming for Jewish Youth & Family Programs children, as well as a space for Manager, to enroll at 239-799-1113 parents to gather. At PJ Library, or hdalby@jewishnaples.org. we feel it is important that all our

Upcoming

! n fu

Hanukkah at the

ar’s Eve Noon Ye

Library!

Hanukkah at the Library December 8th Headquarters Library Noon Year’s Eve st December 31 Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center Interested in these programs? Email Hailey at hdalby@jewishnaples.org

PJ Library families gather for the Mini Matzah Ball

PJ Library Tots Storytime

in the Saperstein BBYO Lounge (and outside, when the weather cooperates!). Each story time, we will read seasonal PJ Library books and sing songs together!

We are ecstatic to have begun a new program with our littlest readers! PJ Library Tots Storytime is a gathering for caregivers and children from birth to two years old. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and visitors from out of town are welcome to join us at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center PJ LIB CC sign up

Our upcoming story time dates are December 4 and 11. Please email me with any questions at hdalby@jewishnaples. org.

The Tribe

By Hailey Dalby, Jewish Youth & Family Program Manager

T

he Tribe is excited to introduce its new name to the Greater Naples Jewish community!

Formerly Jewish Young Professionals of Southwest Florida (JYP), this group of adults is served by its ‘Tribal Council.’

The Tribe gathers for group Shabbats as well as various outings and events throughout Southwest Florida. If this sounds like a group for you, please reach out to Hailey Dalby at hdalby@ jewishnaples.org

Candle lighting times Dec 5: 5:17 p.m.

Dec 12: 5:18 p.m.

Dec 19: 5:21 p.m.

Dec 26: 5:25 p.m.

December 2025

Fed Star

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Celebrate with Us! Florida Jewish History Month Our Major Fundraiser Event!

Just One Ticket — $85 for Two Great Events!

Sunday, Jan 4, 2026 Thursday, Jan 22, 2026 12:00–2:00 p.m.

2:00–4:00 p.m.

Delicious Lunch & Presentation Jews of Florida: Centuries of Stories

By Marcia Jo Zerivitz Previously recorded

Premiere of the Documentary A Jewish Visionary: Jane Schiff

From the Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers series — a Telly Awards Winning Production

Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. 4720 Pine Ridge Road, Naples

Mail to: PO Box #10075, Naples, FL 34101 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization, Tax ID 27-2494562

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Fed Star

December 2025 BBYO azabbg.bbyo.org/on-demand/home

Finding Meaning in Connecting BBYO

SUMMER SCHOLARSHIPS Jewish Federation and Temple Shalom Jewish offeFederation r PARTIAL sand choTemple larshipsShalom for offer PARTIAL scholarships for Jewish Summer Jewish Summer Sleep-Away Camp Sleep-Away Camp & Israel Experience programs! & Israel Experience programs!

Scholarship opportunities are available to all Jewish youth Scin hothe larsh ip opportunregardless ities are avaof ilasynagogue ble to all Jew ishliation. youth in community, affi tFor he cmore ommuinformation nity, regardleand ss othe f synapplication agogue affilform, iation.

For mplease ore infovisit: rmatwww.jewishnaples.org ion and the application form, please visit: jew hna(239) ples.o263-4205 rg/scholarships-grants oriscall or call (239) 263-4205

APPLICATION DEADLINE APPISLFEBRUARY ICATION D9,EA DLINE 2026

IS FEBRUARY 2, 2024 OF GREATER NAPLES of Greater Naples

THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.

6? graduating in 202 of Greater Naples

presents

By Hailey Dalby, Jewish Youth & Family Program Manager

B

hosted a pumpkin carvBYO is the preing event at the Nina Iser eminent pluralistic Jewish Cultural Center.

Jewish teen orgaThis was a fun evening nization for grades 8 filled with camaraderie through 12. With chapters and a little pumpkin goop! across North America, In November, the teens BBYO brings together had two opportunities to young people from around join the greater Jewish the world to connect with community for events. On their heritage, develop Hailey Dalby November 9th, the teens leadership skills, and build joined the community in commemolifelong friendships. Each of the next rating Kristallnacht. Three board five months, we will be introducing members were candle holders and one of our local BBYO Board Memhad speaking roles during the event. bers. These teens work together to Finding meaning in connecting to plan BBYO events and to grow the the community provides joy and chapter in both numbers and quality. purpose for each teen. In this spirit, Meet Noah Tsipursky! the teens also joined our community “My name is Noah, and I am the beach clean-up on November 24th.

Moreh of the Naples Each teen who parChapter of BBYO. I ticipated expressed have been a part of the importance of BBYO since I was in tikkun olam; cleaning 8th grade, and I am and beautifying their proud to say that I surroundings. have been a board member since then. I Naples BBYO invites enjoy recruiting teens teens currently in to join the organizagrades eight through tion. Our message 12 to find yourself fo r e n c o u ra g i n g here. From commupride among Jewnity service to holiish youth is strong day celebrations and and important, espesocial events, BBYO cially in today’s everoffers opportunities Noah Tsipursky, changing climate. I’m for everyone. If this BBYO Naples Moreh always enthusiastic in sounds like the place my role as recruiter because I thorfor you, please reach out to Hailey oughly enjoy BBYO events whether Dalby at hdalby@jewishnaples.org it’s ice skating or sharing a meal with to begin your BBYO Journey. Scholmy Jewish friends for a holiday — and arships to attend BBYO conventions I would like to share this experience and summer programs are available with as many teens in Naples as I can.” through both the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and the Temple Looking back at recent chapter Shalom Men’s Club. programming, in October the teens

A one-time award of $2,500 for further education!

APPLICATION DEADLINE IS FEBRUARY 9, 2026 BBYO Teens at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

December 2025 WOMEN’S CULTURAL ALLIANCE

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www.wcanaples.org | 518-852-3440

WCA North and South Expanding our community of friendship

By Susan Pittelman, WCA Publicity Director; and Susan Feuerman, WCA South Coordinator and member of the WCA Board of Directors

W

CA offers women a wide range of educational, cultural, recreational and social programs – all in a warm and welcoming environment. To better serve its growing membership, WCA created two regional branches: North and WCA South. In the November Fed Star, Emily Berkowitz provided an overview of WCA North. In this issue, we turn our focus to WCA South, as new Coordinator Susan Feuerman shares her thoughts below. Susan follows in the footsteps of past WCA South Coordinators Cathy-Lone Dawson, Leslie Wasserman and Lenore Greenstein, continuing the tradition of strong and inspiring leadership.

WCA South!

The year was 2021, COVID-19 was in full force and my husband Jason and I finally decided it was time to find our dream home in our dream location of Naples, Florida. My brother-in-law and his wife already were settled in a coach home in Fiddler’s Creek in South Naples, so we knew that this was the area of Naples we would look for our future residence. In May 2021, we settled in beautiful Naples Reserve off 41 and began our new life.

How did I discover the Women’s Cultural Alliance? To answer that is to know that my parents rented in Naples over the winter months and my father was active in the Men’s Cultural Alliance. He told me about WCA. He said that they had a variety of social and cultural activities, and that I would love it. My father was right.

I joined WCA in July 2021 and I feel very fortunate, every day, for what it has brought – and continues to bring – into my life. I have developed life-long friendships. I look forward with excited anticipation at the start of each new season to learn about new programs and jump back into my regular activities, which include lunch and dinner outings, mah jong, canasta, Foodies,

In March, WCA South toured Rookery Bay. book clubs, Speaker Series, and the list goes on and on. If you want to be active every day, you can be – and I am! The Nina Iser Cultural Center at the Jewish Federation is WCA’s home base. I am there almost every day and proudly call it my second home in Naples.

WCA offers programs that any member can attend. Last month, the WCA article focused on WCA North. This article is about WCA South, of which I am the coordinator, starting this 2025-2026 season.

WCA South was started in 2015 to provide programs for WCA members who live in South and East Naples along the East trail down to Marco Island. This allows members easier access to WCA programming. WCA South originally had 25 members and over the last decade has grown to 250 members!

As with other WCA groups, WCA South activities are offered to South group members first and if there is space available, our programs are then offered to the general WCA membership.

What types of programming does the South Division offer? In the middle of each season the board of WCA South gets together to plan our programs for the following season, which begins in October and runs through April. We offer year-round weekly canasta (and lunch if you would like)

WCA is a Community of Friendship The 2025-26 WCA Season is filled with exciting programs and special events.

Don’t Miss Out! Join WCA or Renew your membership TODAY!

Go to the WCA website wcanaples.org and click on MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS?? Contact help@wcanaples.org

at the Rookery in Fiddlers Creek.

Additionally, we have a Jewish Book Club, a Fiction Book Club, luncheons and specialty programs that change from year to year.

This season, we have already had a Zoom lecture, “Three Generations: Supporting and Interacting with Grandchildren on the Spectrum,” and we are planning a Conservancy EcoCruise and luncheon. In the beginning of December, we will learn to create the perfect charcuterie board. Other upcoming special events include a Lunch/Learn with Nancy Maxwell, who will give a power point presentation focusing on Mary, Queen of Scots; a Cool Beans Catamaran Trip to Isle

of Capri followed by lunch at Osteria Capri; and a walking tour of Kowiachobee Animal Preserve.

As you can tell, I am very excited to lead this growing and vibrant part of the Women’s Cultural Alliance. Seven women serve on our board — and we can’t wait for our programs to begin.

We are an organization that welcomes everyone, continues to grow in membership, and thrives through the development of new groups/activities each and every year. Join us!

If you’re not yet a WCA member, we invite you to become one today at WCA Naples.org. You will be glad you did!

L I O N O F J U DA H 90%

OF WOMEN IN HIGH-INCOME HOUSEHOLDS MAKE THE PHILANTHROPIC DECISIONS

WHO WE ARE

We are the most dynamic philanthropic Jewish women in the world. We are a part of an international sisterhood of thousands of global activists who care deeply about the Jewish future.

The Lion of Judah is a symbol of today’s Jewish woman’s strength, her care about the Jewish world and her financial commitment to the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples’ Annual Community Campaign and its mission.

of Greater Naples

THE PIN

Each woman who wears her Lion of Judah pin is uniquely connected to all other Lions, all of whom embody the true meaning of tzedakah. These women are empowered to take the dream of Tikkun Olam and turn it into a reality.

WHAT WE DO

Lions of Judah play a vital role in creating social justice, aiding the vulnerable, preserving human dignity and building Jewish identity.

Our impact can be seen through contribution of our time and resources.

Each woman makes an annual donation to their Federation that reflects her capacity to give. In our community, the threshold annual commitment is $5,000. Some Lions also choose to endow their gift to benefit future generations.

The Lions of Judah set an exemplary standard of leadership and giving.

20,000

WOMEN AROUND THE WORLD ARE PROUD LIONS OF JUDAH, DONATING AT LEAST $5,000 TO FEDERATION EVERY YEAR.

If you would like more information on becoming a Lion of Judah in the Greater Naples area, feel free to contact Lion of Judah Chair Anne Schuchman or call, Alicia Feldman, Director of Development, at 239-449-8266.

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December 2025 MEN’S CULTURAL ALLIANCE

JEWISH FEDERATION www.MCANaples.org | 508-733-9427

Art, Culture, and Stimulating Destinations MCA members experience it all

By Larry Israelite

S

ome people think, inaccurately, of course, that being retired means slowing down.

What most members of MCA would tell you is that retirement — being free from the demands of an everyday job — allows you to speed up; to do and experience more than you ever could before. And MCA programming is designed to help its members do just that.

MCA programs are designed to capitalize on the wealth of cultural options in greater Naples, in other parts of Florida, and, even, in other countries For art lovers, MCA members can watch a documentary film, presented by the Brazina Documentary Film Series, about the Polish-Jewish artist Tamara de Lempicka.

Then, those who are interested in learning more can take a p ri vate g u i d e d

tour of the Tamara de Lempicka exhibit at the Baker Museum. At other times during the year, there are tours of the art collection of Marsha and MCA member Michael Goldstein and the art/glass collection of Lawrence Sibrack, also a member of MCA.

MCA organizes visits to many local points of interest. For example, in the coming months, members can tour the: • Naples Airport • Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center • Collier County Traffic Management Control Center, Realtime Operations Center, County Jail and Courthouse, EMT/911 Call Center,

2026 International Holocaust Remembrance Day Program

Monthly Luncheon Economic and Market Forecasts December 11 at 11:30 AM

Michael Farr, President/Founder, Farr, Miller & Washington; Chief Market Strategist, Hightower Advisors; CNBC Contributor will deliver his insights into current market conditions and a forecast of the probable, plausible, and possible paths forward. The economy has changed dramatically, and investors are presented with new opportunities as well as new threats.

Michael's message is that Discipline, Diversification, and Patience are the watchwords as you forge your investment future.

Join on us for a special presentation by Dr. Alex Kor, son of Holocaust survivors Michael and Eva Kor, to commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Date: January 29th Time: 3:00pm Location: Jewish Federation of Greater Naples - Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center TICKETS ARE FREE BUT REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED PLEASE REGISTER AT HMCEC.ORG

Presented in Partnership With

To register, go to www.mcanaples.org or scan the QR code.

MORE INFORMATION AT

HMCEC.ORG OR INFO@HMCEC.ORG

JEWISH FEDERATION

December 2025

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and the Mosquito Control Center • WGCU at FMGU • Rev’s Institute for Automotive Research • Naples Botanical Gardens And we don’t limit ourselves to the Naples area. MCA members can visit Iguana Land in Punta Gorda, the Sunshine Meadows Standardbred Training Facility in Del Ray Beach, a swamp walk in Fakahatchee Strand in Copeland, Disney World, near Orlando and, of course, our neighbor 90 miles to the south — Cuba. Each of these trips is carefully planned to ensure that members and their guests have an unforgettable experience.

Members who enjoy the performing arts have not been forgotten.

The Brazina Documentary Film Series offers a carefully curated collection of films throughout the season. Members of the MCA Movie Group meet monthly to participate in facilitated discussions of current theatrical releases and film classics.

And live performances scheduled this season include The Rat Pack Lounge at the Florida Repertory Theater, An Evening of Laughter with Comedian Craig Shoemaker at the Off the Hook Comedy Club, an evening with Guy Bavli, one of the world’s premiere mentalists, a Beatles concert with MCA’s own ‘Fab 3,’ and a trip to the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater to see All Shook Up, musical is inspired by the songs of Elvis Presley. There is even a backstage tour of the new Gulfshore Playhouse, so members can get a behind the scenes

Regarded for our dining.

Revered for our dessert tray.

view of how professional theaters really operate.

In the end, MCA has a simple goal — to provide its members with as many unique experiences as possible. And one way to do that is to capitalize on the wealth of opportunities that are available both locally and further away.

For more information about these and other MCA programs, go to www.mcanaples.org or scan the QR code below.

Welcome to the fountain of you.

Please contact us for a tour.

theCarlisle NAPLES.COM 239.388.3768

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Fed Star

December 2025

We are honored to invite you on an extraordinary journey that traces the arc of Jewish history from darkness to light, from memory to hope, from tragedy to triumph.

GREATER NAPLES CULTURAL MISSION TO POLAND & ISRAEL A Transformative Cultural Mission to Poland & Israel Late June / Early July 2026 | 7-14 Days For more information about this experience, visit www.authenticisrael.com/tours/naples/ The Jewish Federation of Greater Naples is proud to announce an exclusive mission designed for those seeking a meaningful connection to our heritage, our resilience, and our vibrant future. Led by Nammie Ichilov, President & CEO, this is not just a tour – it's an opportunity to walk through history.

Perfect for singles, couples, and families seeking an enriching cultural experience JUNE 22-JUNE 29, 2026 | Europe Only JUNE 22-JULY 5, 2026 | Europe + Israel JUNE 29-JULY 5, 2026 | Israel Only POLAND: Heritage, Memory & Cultural Renaissance Experience Poland's resurgence of Jewish life and culture. We'll explore Warsaw and Krakow, tracing Jewish life from the flourishing pre-war communities that were centers of scholarship and creativity, through the devastation we must never forget, to today's remarkable cultural revival. From historic synagogues to contemporary galleries and concerts, witness how Poland's Jewish story continues with renewed vitality.

ISRAEL: Renewal in a Pivotal Moment Continue to Israel at a defining moment in the nation's history. Following the ceasefire with Gaza and the return of all living October 7 hostages, Israel stands ready to rebuild – just as it did after the Holocaust. Be part of this restoration. Immerse yourself in Israel's world-renowned theaters, concert halls, and artistic communities. Volunteer with organizations supporting those affected by recent events. Meet the cultural leaders and creators shaping Israel's future. Experience how a nation transforms adversity into artistry, trauma into triumph.

Learn More at Our Information Sessions Join us to discover detailed itinerary information, hear from our tour partners at Authentic Israel, ask questions, and meet fellow travelers. We're offering multiple sessions to accommodate your schedule: Wednesday, November 19 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Morning Session (*In-Person) 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM | Evening Session (*In-Person) Thursday, December 4 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM | Afternoon Session (*In-Person) 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM | Evening Session with Authentic Israel Rep (Virtual - link provided upon RSVP) Monday, December 15 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM | Lunchtime Session (*In-Person)

Scan to Register for Information Sessions

Contact Jaime Cohen, Executive Assistant & Board Liaison Direct Line: 239-449-8379, Email: jcohen@jewishnaples.org *In-person session locations will be shared upon RSVP

DECEMBER 10, 7 P.M. Join us: Stand-up Comedian SHAUN ELI Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center | Cost: $36 Dessert Reception to Follow 2026 Annual Community Campaign Kick-Off

To register, visit www.JewishNaples.org/ACC26 Or scan the QR code

COMMUNITY FOCUS

December 2025

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December Brazina Series Presentation Tamara de Lempicka — “Baroness with a Brush”

By Richard Prosten

F

or decades, the story of Art Deco artist Tamara de Lempicka — born Tamara Hurwitz — was viewed as that of a vain socialite who exaggerated her origins. The True Story of Tamara de Lempicka & The Art of Survival, a fascinating documentary directed by Julie Rubio and narrated by Anjelica Huston, offers a profound correction.

De Lempicka’s art defined the roaring 1920s with her polished, fiercely modern paintings. Known for her high-gloss, geometric portraits of high society personages and sensual nudes, her signature style created a new aesthetic for the Jazz Age. The result was her “stylized cubism,” characterized by sharp, angular lines, dramatic lighting, and brilliant lacquered surfaces. Her famous Autoportrait (Tamara in the Green Bugatti) and her powerful female figures captured the spirit of the era and continue to influence fashion and art today, including collectors Madonna and Barbra Streisand.

The film reveals, through newly discovered archival evidence including family certificates and never-before-seen 8mm home movies, that de Lempicka’s concealing her Jewish heritage — once interpreted as frivolous selfinvention — is now correctly understood as a necessary act of survival to protect herself and her family during a period of escalating persecution.

Born into a life of privilege in Warsaw, de Lempicka’s world was upended by the Russian Revolution, leading her family to flee to Paris, where art became her tool for survival. It allowed her to transform herself from a refugee into an international sensation. But as the shadows of fascism gathered across Europe, de Lempicka faced a new existential threat.

In 1940, she moved to the U.S., where she continued to reinvent herself as an artist, an immigrant, a mother, and a fiercely independent woman.

Featuring interviews with de Lempicka’s great-granddaughters, art historians, and curators, the film is a visually rich retrospective that blends her vibrant canvases into the narrative of her turbulent life, demonstrating the enduring power and political significance embedded within her art.

Following the screening, we invite you to stay for a Q&A session with Director/Producer Julie Rubio and Co-Producer Blake Wellen to discuss the film and de Lempicka’s legacy.

Runtime: 96 minutes; Some of de Lempicka’s portraits are of nudes; viewer discretion is advised.

Coinciding with the film, the Baker Museum, which owns two de Lempicka originals, is sponsoring an exhibition of her work. The retrospective includes pieces from her 1920s Paris period, later still lifes, and interiors from her time in the U.S. and Mexico, along with selections from the Fine Art Museum of San Francisco’s Art Deco collection. MCA will offer docentled tours at the Baker Museum in December and January.

Updated Schedule

At the request of the producers of some of our films, we have adjusted the schedule to the following.

January 6 – The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue Winner of Best Film, Toronto International Film Festival 2025 When terror struck Israel on October 7, 2023, retired General Noam Tibon refused to just stand by. With his wife at his side, he raced from Tel Aviv to Nahal Oz to rescue his son, daughter-in-law, and two young grandchildren. This award-winning film

by Barry Avrich captures the heartstopping journey that transformed national tragedy into a story of devotion and hope.

Runtime: 93 minutes February 3 – Charles Grodin: Rebel With a Cause This documentary celebrates the life of Charles Grodin — comedian, actor, and tireless advocate for justice. Raised in a Jewish household in Pittsburgh, Grodin embodied the principle of Tikkun Olam, dedicating decades to freeing wrongly convicted individuals. The film includes interviews with Robert De Niro, Steve Martin, Elaine May, Carol Burnett, Paul Simon, Alan Arkin, Ellen Burstyn, Lewis Black, and others.

Runtime: 93 minutes March 3 – Diane Warren: Relentless This intimate portrait traces Diane Warren’s journey from a modest Jewish upbringing in Van Nuys,

Diane Warren California, to becoming one of the most prolific songwriters in history. Known for her rebellious spirit, Warren broke barriers in a maledominated industry, penning megahits for Cher, Whitney Houston, Britney Spears, and Beyoncé. Scheduled to coincide with the 2026 Oscars, the film features “Dear Me,” a song expected to be among Warren’s nominations.

Runtime: 92 minutes April 14 – Nazi Town, USA In February 1939, more than 20,000 Americans filled Madison Square Garden for an event billed as a “ProAmerican Rally.” Images of George Washington hung next to swastikas and speakers railed against the “Jewish controlled media” and called for a return to a racially “pure” America.

Nazi Town, USA tells the largely unknown story of the Bund, which created a pro-Nazi hamlet in Yaphank, Long Island, only 60 miles from NY. The Bund also had scores of chapters in suburbs and big cities across the country, held joint rallies with the Ku Klux Klan and ran dozens of summer camps for children centered around Nazi ideology and imagery.

Its melding of "patriotic" values with virulent anti-Semitism raised thorny issues that we continue to wrestle with today.

An Extra-Special event: This Emmy nominated film was made by Peter Yost, whose father Murray is an active MCA member. Peter will be joining us to discuss the film. Runtime: 53 minutes

Screenings and Registration

All films will be shown at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center at 1:30 p.m. (doors open at 1:00). Admission is free, but due to security and capacity limits, reservations are required.

Registration is available via WCA and MCA websites and e-blasts during the month preceding each film.

Any questions or comments, contact Richard Prosten at Docfilmsnaples@ gmail.com.

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

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Fed Star

December 2025

COMMUNITY FOCUS

So Much to Be Grateful For

By Ida Margolis

S

Dialogue (CJD). CJD pressponsors a variety of proome people actuents a variety of excelgrams for Second Generally enjoy listening to ation (2Gs) and community lent programs. Along with sermons, and I am members interested in the Jewish Federation of one of them. During Rosh Greater Naples and others, Holocaust education and Hashanah and Yom Kippur, human rights. each November they presI listened to sermons that ent our local annual Kristallrabbis likely spent hours Along with the Museum nacht Commemoration. writing. It was not long ago and other groups, Genthat listening to a sermon This year, in commemoraShoah again presented required that you attend the “Movies That Matter” tion of the 60th anniversary a house of worship. Since Ida Margolis of Nostra Aetate, the CJD, Brazina Memorial Film COVID, we have had the Series. A thank-you to the Community Relations Council opportunity to hear sermons not those who expressed interof Greater Naples (JCRC), and Ave only by our excellent local rabbis but est in these important films.

Maria University are presenting by rabbis throughout the country. a symposium at Ave Hopefully, you’ve heard something Maria on December that inspired, educated, or motivated 6 and at the Nina Iser you toward spiritual or ethical growth.

Jewish Cultural Center on December 7 at One widely known rabbi is Elliot 2 p.m. We are grateCosgrove of Park Avenue Synaful to have CJD and gogue in NYC. I found it interesting these programs in our that on Yom Kippur, in addition to community. For more his sermon, Rabbi Cosgrove invited information, contact Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop cjdofcolliercounty@ of New York, to join him. They have a history of interfaith dialogue, and gmail.org or info@ jewishnaples.org. during Yom Kippur they spoke of the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate, GenShoah is also gratewhich transformed Catholic teaching about Jews and calls for greater ful for our Holocaust respect and understanding between Museum & Cohen EduCatholics and Jews. cation Center (HMCEC).

Holocaust Museum curator Cody In addition to the proRademacher with Movies that Matter In Collier County, we have been fortugrams the Museum Series Naming and Benefactor Sponsor Rhonda Brazina nate to have an active Catholic-Jewish presents, GenShoah

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION

CHANUKAH C e l e b r a ti o n DINNER BUFFET

CELEBRATE THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS WITH TRADITIONAL FAVORITES

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16th 5:30pm

MORE INFORMATION & RESERVATIONS AT www.naplesjewishcongregation.org

GenShoah co-chair Shelley Lieb with panelists Arnie Rubin and Marge Cox at recent Movies That Matter discussion Auschwitz? You may want to read the book to find out how the mystery was solved, and even if you don’t read the book, Linda will share with you the investigative work that was done to solve this mystery.

To attend, GenShoah members must RSVP to genshoahswfl@hmcec.org.

You will then receive directions to the event and a request for a dish to share.

Space is limited.

Because GenShoah members expressed an interest in book discussions, we added two book discussions in addition to the book presentation at our annual December potluck gathering. The books selected were Life in a Jar by Jack Mayer, and in March the discussion will be on Sabine’s Odyssey by Agnes Shipper, who will be speaking at the Agnes Schipper Museum.

The potluck gathering mentioned above is traditionally an extremely popular GenShoah member event.

This year it will be held on Sunday, December 21, at 11 a.m. at a private residence. In addition to the delicious food and the opportunity to see good friends and make new acquaintances, there will be a brief book talk given by Linda Denning on the nonfiction book Hana’s Suitcase by Karen Levine.

Did you know that there is a small Holocaust education center in Tokyo?

Did you know that the curator of this center and the children there solved a mystery of an empty suitcase they had received from a museum at

A listing of upcoming events and more information about GenShoah is in the monthly newsletter.

If you would like to receive the newsletter, simply email genshoahswfl@ hmcec.org. GenShoah SWFL is open to all interested in our mission. Wishes for peace, love, and understanding.

Linda Denning

GenShoah SWFL • GenShoahSWFL@HMCEC.org

COMMUNITY FOCUS

December 2025

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Holocaust Museum Erin Blankenship President & CEO

A

s we approach the end of 2025, I want to express my gratitude for those members of our community who support our mission: “Teach the lessons of the Holocaust to inspire action against hatred and to promote mutual respect.” Because of the help of individuals like you and that of other generous donors like the Harvey D. and Janet G. Cohen Foundation, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, the Ray Foundation, the June H. Jones Foundation, the State of Florida Department of Arts and Culture, Suncoast Credit Union Foundation, the Collier Community Foundation, and others, we are able to reach thousands of individuals in Southwest Florida with the stories of local Holocaust survivors that illustrate the power of resilience, hope, and community.

Holocaust Torah

A very special object is on display at the Museum through March 2026 – Temple Shalom’s Holocaust Torah. In partnership with the Temple and the Memorial Scrolls Trust, the Museum is honored to share the Torah’s remarkable survival story with a much wider public audience. It is one of 1,564 Czech Torah scrolls rescued during World War II and preserved by the Memorial Scrolls Trust, an English organization that has allocated the scrolls to synagogues and museums all over the world.

Written in 1874, the scroll was found in a synagogue built in 1821 that served a Jewish community dating back to the 13th century. In 1941, the Nazis deported the small Jewish community that remained to concentration camps.

Exhibitions

Our current exhibit, “Painting the Irena Sendler Story,” features the original paintings artist Bill Farnsworth created to illustrate the children’s book Irena Sendler and the Children of the Warsaw Ghetto, by Susan Goldman Rubin. Last month, we were pleased to host “An Evening with Bill Farnsworth.”

Bill discussed his experiences working together with children’s book authors Susan Goldman Rubin and Ruth Vander Zee to create illustrations for their Holocaust-themed children’s books, including The Anne Frank Case (Rubin) and Eli Remembers (Vander Zee.) The exhibit is on display through December 15 in the Estelle and Stuart Price Gallery.

Our next exhibition, “Holocaust by Bullets,” is presented in cooperation with Yahad – In Unum, an organization dedicated to identifying and commemorating the sites of Jewish

and Roma mass executions in Eastern Europe during World War II. It will be on display January 6, 2026, through April 13, 2026.

The Luncheon

We look forward to hosting The Luncheon, our annual winter fundraising event, at the Vineyards County Club o n We d n e s d a y, December 3. This year’s program features a special presentation by critically acclaimed director and photographer Gillian Laub. Gillian created the Live2Tell Project, which documents the testimony of Holocaust survivors through photographs. Several photographs from the project will be displayed, including that of Marcel Fachler who has worked with our Museum.

Oak Ridge Middle School field trip photographs from our permanent collection by WWII Signal Corps filmmaker Ken Regele, and more.

Gillian Laub

I’m excited to share that while in Naples, Gillian will transform the Museum into a photo studio for a day! She and her Live2Tell team will photograph and interview several local Southwest Florida survivors for the project. All of us are looking forward to seeing their photos become part of the Live2Tell project and we will share them with the community when they do.

Many thanks to the individuals on our Luncheon Committee for their hard work on what will be a memorable event: Co-chairs Nina Diamond and Marjie Zucker, and Committee Members Debbie Annes, Michele Brotman, Margo Ceresney, Ellen Englander, Maureen Lerner, Judy Leventhal, Estelle Price, Sandy Roth, and Mindy Sterns.

Community Engagement Programs

Interested in hosting our PopUp Museum or having a Museum speaker for your organization? Please contact Community Engagement Manager Julie Cohen at Julie@hmcec.org for more information.

Looking forward to 2026

2026 marks the Museum’s 25th anniversary! We’re celebrating with a season of memorable programs and events. Among them are complimentary admission (by RSVP to hmcec.org) for International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Book talks by Dr. Alex Kor and Dr. Jacob Flaws, a Holocaust Film Series at Paragon Pavilion Theater in Naples, a new exhibition of

And please save the date – Wednesday, March 4, 2026 - for Triumph 2026 at the Arthrex Conference Center, benefitting our education programs. For the latest updates, visit hmcec.org, follow us on Facebook and Instagram,

and sign up on the website for our monthly e-newsletters.

On behalf of our Board of Directors and staff, I wish you and your families a Happy Hanukkah, and a healthy and joyous New Year! I hope to see you soon at the Museum!

Holocaust Museum & Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen Education Center HMCEC.org • 239-263-9200

Please Join Us for these Upcoming Programs in December and January December 7, 2025 Guest Lecture by Dr. Serafima Velkovich 12:00pm at the Museum - Free of charge RSVP required at hmcec.org Dr. Velkovich, Head of the Family Roots Research Section at Yad Vashem Archives, will explore the role of family memory in the search for identity, showing how personal narratives intersect with historical research.

January 19, 2026 Holocaust by Bullets Gallery Opening and Talk 5:00pm at the Museum General Public $9; Members Free RSVP required at hmcec.org The new Holocaust by Bullets exhibition presented in cooperation with Yahad-In Unum, an organization dedicated to identifying and commemorating Jewish and Roma mass execution sites in Eastern Europe.

Talk features Ewa Schaller, Education Coordinator at American Friends of Yahad-In Unum.

January 29, 2026 Book Talk by Dr. Alex Kor 3:00pm at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center - Free of charge RSVP required at hmcec.org Dr. Kor will discuss his book A Blessing Not A Burden, chronicling the lives of his Holocaust survivor parents Eva Mozes Kor and Mickey Kor. Program in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Naples FL 34110 239-263-9200 hmcec.org info@hmcec.org

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Fed Star

December 2025

COMMUNITY FOCUS

GenShoah SWFL Upcoming Programs

By Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb

W

e invite all members of GenShoah SWFL to the following planned events.

GenShoah Member BRUNCH Potluck Gathering

This event, which includes a book talk about Hanna's Suitcase by Karen Levine, will be held Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.; Location TBD (private residence), RSVP is required to liebro@gmail.com.

Come together with other members of GenShoah SWFL in an informal setting to schmooze and feed each other. You don't need to read the book

to appreciate the book talk by Linda Denning.

The Holocaust M u s e u m & Co h e n Education Center will host GenShoah members for this event with light refreshments and offer a short tour of the museum for anyone interested. A special invitation to join us is extended to new members.

Open House/ New Member Reception

Plan to attend this event for all GenShoah members and Survivors on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. The guest Emily Murray, FGCU presentation will feaArchives Coordinator ture Emily Murray and Special event They Were Children: Rescue as Resisto recognize GenShoah tance; Holocaust Museum, RSVP is Dimensions in Testimony, with Erin required to hmcec.org.

Blankenship, President and CEO of

Holocaust Museum, is scheduled for Tuesday, February 3, 2026 - 7:00 p.m. at Beth Tikvah. RSVP is required office@bethtikvah.us.

Beth Tikvah invites all GenShoah members as special guests to hear Erin Blankenship talk about her experience with Dimensions in Testimony — a project of the USC Shoah Foundation that enables people to ask questions that prompt real-time responses from prerecorded video interviews with Holocaust survivors and other witnesses to genocide.

Goomeh Neshoomeh!

Zoog mir in Yiddish

By Sol Awend, GenShoah SWFL

I

recently ran across this iconic Beatles album and a funny Yiddish thought popped into my head.

What if one of the most influential bands of all time composed and performed their greatest hits in Yiddish?!

While this idea may seem like a stretch, it sparks a fascinating thought experiment. For those of us who were in high school during the early 1960s,

The Beatles were not just a musical sensation — they played a pivotal role in shaping our choices in pop music.

"Zee Leeb’t Dec’h! Yaw! Yaw! Yaw!" ("She Loves You! Yeah!

Yeah! Yeah!").

Dee geh denkst? (Do you remember?) the first time you heard them?

The emotional pull of their music was unforgettable, especially in songs like "Ich Vill Haalten Dah Haant", ("I Want to Hold Your Hand"). That was followed by the energetic hit,

Those of you not familTheir success was also iar with Yiddish would influenced by Brian Epstein, probably pass by this their manager, who was a month’s submission. But c’hevreh (one of our own). His those familiar with both background and keen busiThe Beatles and Mameh ness sense, often described Sol Awend L ooshen (mother as having a Yeedisheh Kopp tongue) have to admit that there’s a (a Jewish head for business), played humorous aspect to this story. a significant role in guiding the group to international fame.

It’s not just about the lyrics — it’s about the flavor and rhythm Yiddish brings The playful reimagining didn’t stop to the music. It adds a layer of warmth there. and humor that resonates with those who grew up with the language.

As I scrolled through the catalog, Imagining "Loz Es Zayn" ("Let It Be"), each quirky Yiddish title conjured vivid or "Ah Nec’htehkeh Toog" ("Yesterimages of familiar scenes as in "Ah day"). It gives these classics a new, Shvereh Toog’s Nac’ht" ("A Hard Day’s nostalgic twist. It’s as if the familiar Night"). In the movie, there was Paul’s melodies carry memories of time dad riding the train — a moment that passed and truths told. felt as endearing as chatting with your own Zaidy (grandfather). And then, I hope this walk down memory lane "Hilfeh!" ("Help!"), which always seemed brought a smile to your face, thinking to echo the urgency of reaching out. about blending English and Yiddish.

Just had another thought! How about You just can’t make this up; the idea of we translate some of Dolly Parton’s The Beatles serenading us in Yiddish greatest hits! remains a delightful twist on nostalgia,

Hold these Dates…

Join us for our exciting activities this season: • Scholar In Residence Shelly Sanders Shabbat - January 16 - 18 • Scholar In Residence Rabbi Yossi Sapirman Shabbat - February 13 - 15 • Cantorial Concert with Cantor David Edwards Sunday - February 22

1459 Pine Ridge Rd. Naples, FL 34109 239-434-1818 • info@BethTikvah.us

blending musical history with the warmth of cultural memory.

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December 2025

Fed Star

Temple Beth Shalom of Cape Coral presents.... live from Park Avenue...

Internationally Acclaimed Vocal Performer Cantor Azi Schwartz, Asisstant Cantor Mira Davis and our own Cantor Barry Butensky

Cantor Azi Schwartz

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FEBRUARY 2, 2, 2026 2026 FEBRUARY THE BROADWAY BROADWAY PALM PALM THE DINNER DINNER THEATER THEATER 5:30pm Buffet 5:30pm Buffet Dinner Dinner 7:00pm 7:00pm Concert Concert The amazing Cantor Azi Schwartz has been discovered!

ASSISTANT CANTOR OF PARK AVENUE SYNAGOGUE MIRA DAVIS

Twenty five million online viewers Over 18 albums Performed at Carnegie Hall, the United Nations, Madison Square Garden, the US Capitol Rotunda the Israeli Knesset, and for Pope Francis at the 9/11 Memorial; Featured in a PBS special;

Get tickets now! Limited seating ! broadwaypalm.com/shows/cantor-azi-schwartz

For more information, please contact Cantor Butensky SWFLAZI@gmail.com or call (347) 205-5413.

Jewish Federation of of Lee Lee && Charlotte Charlotte Counties Counties

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December 2025

Fed Star

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Upcoming Events of the Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida

By Marina Berkovitch, President of the Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida

W

e welcome you to join us for these upcoming Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida events.

Two-event Major Fundraiser

Do not miss these special events during the month of January — Florida Jewish History Month.

Soviet Jewry Movement and the Moon – A Zoom presentation on December 18 at 3 p.m.

The life of presenter Norm Winski’s uncle, Abe Silverstein, reads like a spy story. A top engineer and manager from the days of NASA’s predecessor, NACA, he helped send men to the moon — then retired and devoted himself to freeing Soviet Jewry, a mission that was, in its own way, like traveling into the unknown.

Event 1: SWFL Jewish History Luncheon, Sunday, January 4, from noon to 3 p.m.

Marcia Jo Zerivitz’s mesmerizing “Jews of Florida” lecture; previously filmed.

Discover fascinating historical facts and follow the trail of Florida Jewish history

Don’t miss this unique event, brought to you jointly with the Jewish-Russian Cultural Alliance. Free attendance. Register at www.jhsswf.org/upcomingevents/ to receive the Zoom link.

OF LEARNING

Preserving Nature's BountyFrom Israel to Naples Sunday, February 8 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

In-person or on Zoom, $25 per person Light lunch included

Speakers:

By Jeanette Fischer, Temple Shalom Director of Communications

O

ur Temple Shalom One Family looks forward to welcoming you to the events listed below. Visit our website at naplestemple.org or call the Temple Shalom office at 239-455-3030 for more information.

Tzedek, Tzedek (Tashir v’) Tirdof: Music in Doing Justic

Rabbi Ed Rosenthal Founder & CEO, Repair the Sea/Tikkun HaYam

Julianne Thomas Sr Environmental Planner, Conservancy of Southwest Florida

Derek Salge Avian Specialist, Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

Scan Here for tickets or visit jewishnaples.org/DayofLearning

Jointly Sponsored by

Israel and Overseas Committee

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

Fundraiser ticket: $85 admits one person to both events. Tickets: www. jhsswf.org/upcoming-events/. Both events will be held at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

Temple Shalom Events

Join Cantor Donna Azu Thursday, December 4 at 3:00 p.m. for the second session of this two-part series exploring the use of music in the work of doing justice.

Jay Shofet Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel

Event 2: Premiere of a New Film, AJewish Visionary: Jane Schiff, from the TELLY AWARDS-winning Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers Series, is scheduled for Thursday, January 22, at 2 p.m. Find out more about the incredible Jane Schiff and her parents, whose names are on the dedication plaque of the centerpiece artwork at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

Jewish Historical Society of SWFL www.jhsswf.org • 833-547-7935

Abe Silverstein at NASA

11th ANNUAL DAY

that Marcia Jo helped to create in our state.

Soulful Shabbat

We invite you to join us for our very popular musical Shabbat on Friday evening, December 5 at 7:30 p.m.

Soulful Shabbat is a service conducted entirely in song and led by Cantor Donna Azu with accompaniment by the Temple Shalom Band.

Looted Nazi Art

“There was no greater lover of art than Adolf Hitler. The trouble was the art he loved belonged to somebody else.” Join Ellaine Rosen on Wednesdays, December 10 & 17 at 12:30 p.m. to learn about the most significant art theft in history, which led to the most incredible “treasure hunt” in history – a story without an end. Please register at tinyurl.com/TS-LootedArt

Shabbat evening service with Hanukkah Oneg

Join us Friday, December 19 at 7:30 p.m. for Shabbat evening services followed by a Hanukkah-themed

oneg with lots of goodies and our annual “Can-orah” building. Please bring a canned non-perishable item (or more) to add to the building. Donations will be given to the food pantry.

Beach Shabbat

Join us at Lowdermilk Park Beach Friday, December 26 at 5:00 p.m. for a beautiful sunset Shabbat service.

We meet on the sand at the north end of the beach. Please bring a beach chair.

Torah Study

Join our vibrant, virtual Torah Study every Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m. via Zoom. Explore the wisdom of the weekly Torah portion with thoughtful discussions and meaningful reflections. Led by a member of our clergy or a lay person, this interactive session welcomes all to explore and connect with Jewish teachings. Please contact the Temple Shalom office for the zoom link.

Sisterhood Judaica Shop

Shop at the only Judaica Shop in the Greater Naples area! The Sisterhood Judaica Shop has a wide selection of Judaica. Shop for a mezuzah, Shabbat candlesticks, tallit, Kiddush cups, hostess gifts, and much more.

To schedule an appointment, contact the Temple Shalom office.

Temple Shalom Naplestemple.org 239-455-3030

COMMUNITY FOCUS

December 2025

To: Michael Gordon In Honor of your special birthday.

Fed Star

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To: Ed Wollman In Memory of Selma Rothseid From: Jane Schiff

From: Lea and Michael Bendes

Tributes

To: Gail and Dan Kamm In Memory of Howard Frum.

My sincere condolences on the passing of your brother, Howard. May the care and love of those around you provide comfort and peace.

Tributes to the Jewish Federation Campaign

To: Estelle Price Wishing you a speedy recovery From: Jane Schiff

To: Susan Feld In Memory of Ruth Messineo From: Jane Schiff

From: Patti Bloom To: Michael Gordon In Honor of Michael Gordon's birthday

To: Michael Gordon Wishing you a Happy 85th birthday and many more.

To: Estelle Price Wishing you a speedy recovery

From: Hilda and Marty Levine

From: Susan and Nat Ritter

To: Michal Wiesler In Honor of Michal Wiesler’s birthday

To: Ed Wollman In Memory of Selma Rothseid

To: Susan Feld In Memory of Ruth Messineo

From: Rolly and Adir Jacob

From: Beth and Brian Wolff

From: Susan and Nat Ritter

From: Rolly and Adir Jacob

To: Mae Riefberg In Memory of Rita Zwerdling From: Jane Schiff

Tributes require a minimum donation of $18.

To place a tribute in Fed Star in honor or memory of someone, please contact the Federation office at 239-263-4205.

Tributes require a minimum donation of $18. A note will be sent to the person/family you are honoring.

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

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Fed Star

December 2025

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Jewish Congregation of Marco Island Upcoming Events

By Stan Alliker, President

H

appy Chanukah to everyone.

Now that “the season” is in full swing, the Jewish Congregation of Marco Island is ramping up its community-wide events in December.

Please join us for Shabbat worship services every Friday at 7:30 p.m. followed by homemade desserts at our Oneg Shabbat.

Our Marco Island Community Chanukah celebration will take place on Sunday, Dec. 21 at 5:30 p.m. in front of the temple with the lighting of our outdoor menorah followed

by traditional treats of latkes, sufganiyot, “special” cookies supplied

by Rabbi Gross, chocolate gelt, and dreidels.

As part of the JCMI film series, join us for Bad Shabbos. This fast-paced Tribeca Film Festival comedy is about a Shabbat dinner gone awry. “Over the course of one night during an anything-but-typical New York City Shabbos, a family get-together takes a turn for the worse in Daniel Robbins’ unique take on the dinner party farce.” Sunday, December 14, 10:30 a.m. for brunch and the movie.

On December 16 at 11 a.m., the JCMI Book Club will review the novel And So I Roar by Abi Dare. This novel is about a young girl caught in the cultural divide on a modernizing Nigeria versus Tribal tradition. It is a powerful book about the clash of traditional versus modern cultures. Come and participate in a challenging discussion.

$20. The price includes Bingo games and a free kosher hot dog supper.

Who knows, you may be a winner!

Tickets are on sale for our concert series events. The first event is the Turnstiles presenting “The Ultimate Billy Joel show.” Join us Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. See our flyer or website for more concerts in February and March or to purchase tickets online.

JCMI’s famous Monday Night Bingo is back for the season.

Come join us Monday Jewish Congregation of Marco Island night at 5:30 p.m. for a www.marcojcmi.com • 239-642-0800 fun-filled evening for only

Naples Jewish Congregation Community Events

By Len Egdish, Publicity Chair, Naples Jewish Congregation

W

e invite you to join us at the following events this month.

As a congregation, Naples Jewish Congregation (NJC) is committed to lifelong learning, promoting education and reflective discussion of the compelling issues that we all face.

Rabbi Herman is a poignant, insightful, and entertaining educator who generously shares his knowledge and brings about a vibrant and respectful exchange of ideas and beliefs.

Jewish spiritual wisdom has put many names on the experience of encountering the divine. This December 19 course, Who Shall I Say Is Calling?

Insights about the Name(s) of God in Jewish Tradition, offers some unexpected insights from the Bible, rabbinic literature, and Kabbalah about what it means to give a name to the Transcendent — from the Torah’s ineffable four-letter name to unusual metaphors to the Kabbalists’ 72 (actually 216) letter mystery, and beyond. This course will explore

familiar and unfamiliar sources, with an emphasis on articulating and clarifying our own spiritual awareness.

inspiration in our home at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples. Worship together with the members of The Small Congregation with a Big Heart.

Everyone is welcome to attend our Shabbat Services, which will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday nights: See our website at naplesjewish December 5, 19, and 26, and on congregation.org for dates and Saturday morning, December 13, at times. While there, you can see the 10:00 a.m. Join Rabbi Herman, Music various planned activities.

Director Alla Gorelick, and Naples Jewish Congregation the NJC choir www.naplesjewishcongregation.org • 239-431-3858 for song and

The Sharon and Paul Stein Israel and Overseas

2025-2026 SPEAKER SERIES

All events will take place at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

Herb Keinon The Jerusalem Post Monday, Oct. 27, 4 pm Topic: The TrumpNetanyahu equation: A new chapter in an old alliance

Dahlia Scheindlin Author, political strategist, Haaretz columnist

Beejhy Barhany Harlem-based Ethiopian Jewish entrepreneur, author & activist

Wednesday, Dec. 3, 3 pm Topic: War, politics and peace: A better solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Sunday, Jan. 11, 10 am Topic: Ethiopian Jewish (Beta Israel) history spanning thousands of years

Thanks to a generous commitment from Dr. Paul Stein and Sharon Stein, this annual speaker series will now feature free admission for participants.

Scan to Register

Adeena Sussman Cookbook author, food writer

American Technion Society Neta Blum

Alex Lederman Israel Policy Forum

Monday, February 9, 3 pm Topic: Immigration nation: Israeli's diverse culinary life

Monday, March 2, 6:30 pm Topic: Technion10² documentary film screening, discussion

Tuesday, March 24, 5:30 pm Topic: Israel 2026 – the path forward

Or Visit www.jewishnaples.org /IOC25-26

December 2025

Fed Star

9A

Annual Community Wide

Hanukkah Celebration Monday, December 15 5 - 6 PM Mercato on the Lawn Join us for this free community wide event as we celebrate Hanukkah and light the Menorah Entertainment, music, food, and fun!

Naples Klezmer Revival Band, music begins at 4:30 Chef Dalia’s Israeli food for sale Enjoy balloon creations & giveaways Please register so we can plan accordingly

Scan to Register or visit bit.ly/3T5PWqi

Our Community Partners

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This Tony-nominated Best Musical follows two theatre writers and composers who try to sell a hilariously inaccurate musical about Johannes Gutenberg.

Buddy celebrates the youthful energy, creativity, and legacy of a rock-n-roll icon who changed popular music with his greatest hits and compelling life story.

This beloved musical transforms the original novel into a tune-filled show of unforgettable songs, while retaining its exploration of poverty and loss.

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Fed Star

December 2025

JEWISH INTEREST

The Ketubah An ancient contract still honored today

By Arlene Stolnitz

O

ccasionally, I hear fro m re a d e rs requesting an article on a particular subject.

Recently, a request came suggesting I write about ketubot (pl.). I decided it was an interesting topic to research.

an arrangement for his daughter to marry, he was agreeing to the loss of a contributing member of his household. The ketubah, an arrangement between families, was viewed as compensation for this loss.

Arlene Stolnitz

If you are a married Jewish woman, I am sure you have a ketubah.

A ketubah is a replica of an ancient marriage contract, written in Aramaic, the lingua franca in the Near East dating back as early as the 6th century B.C. It specifically spells out the groom’s responsibilities to the bride, guaranteeing the groom’s financial obligations as well as his conjugal and marital obligations.

But it was more than an agreement for the union. Besides guaranteeing the daughter’s financial security, a ketubah was important in the case of divorce or death of the husband. A woman could not own land, which made her economically dependent on her father, husband, or son (e.g., the daughters

In ancient times, the ketubah provided security for a Jewish woman who had little or no protection against economic insecurity. It was, in specific terms, a legal document that ensured a safety net for women. How revolutionary that was for its time!

Ketubot can be traced back to biblical times. When a father agreed to

Ancient writings

NOSTRA AETATE 60 Years: A new path for Catholic-Jewish relations

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the landmark document known as Nostra Aetate (In Our Time), which was the result of Jewish and Catholic collaboration during the Second Vatican Council.

This two-day program brings together a panel of distinguished theologians and professors from across North America to discuss the landmark document that changed 20 centuries of Catholic-Jewish relations, and its impact on our lives.

Join the 60th Anniversary Symposium Dec. 6, 2 p.m. @ Ave Maria University or Dec. 7, 2 p.m. @ Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center (both locations will feature the same program) Scan to Register or visit JewishNaples.org/NostraAetate60 A collaboration with the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County, the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Naples, and Ave Maria University.

of Zelophehad). Thus, the bride was provided protection against loss of income during adversity. Often a guaranteed sum of money was required and was paid in silver pieces. Provisions for the wife and any children’s continued support were also included.

I t wa s a b u s i n e s s arrangement.

Over time, the ketubah continually evolved and became more complex.

It addressed more specific concerns such as inheritance of property.

Eventually, the ketubah came to represent a Ancient marriage contract broader statement of respect and commitment between and conjugal needs, according to the the groom and bride. universal custom.’”

Today, a couple may choose an artistic design for the ketubah, even designing their own unique version. Intricate paper cuts have always been popular.

Modern laser technology can now be used with floral motifs and Hebrew phrases such as the Priestly Blessing.

It becomes a beautiful work of art to adorn the home of the couple.

In Israel, a ketubah is a legally binding marriage contract, while in the United States, it is primarily a symbolic religious document with little or no legal standing in civil courts.

The English text of the ancient document reads in part as follows: “On the day of the week, the day of the month of in the year … the bridegroom said: ‘Be my wife according to the laws and traditions of Moses and Israel. I will work, honor, feed, and support you in the custom of Jewish men. I will give you the settlement (mohar) of virgins, two hundred silver zuzim, which is due you according to Torah law, as well as your food, clothing, necessities of life,

The bride agreed and became his wife. The dowry that she brought from her father’s house, “whether in silver, gold, jewelry, clothing, home furnishings, or bedding, the bridegroom accepts as being worth one hundred silver pieces (zekukim)….”

The ketubah is an example of the forward thinking of the Jewish people.

It recognizes the intrinsic value of women, their equality of rights, and their need for protection, blazing the way toward parity of men and women.

I hope you have found this article informative. Please contact me with your requests for information on other topics related to ancient Judaica at arlenestolnitz@gmail.com.

Arlene Stolnitz, the “Jewish Music” contributor to Federation papers for the past eight years, has started a new series focusing on Judaic Folk Art. It will appear in Federation newspapers on an irregular basis. Stolnitz, a native of Rochester, New York, is a retired educator and lives in Venice, Florida.

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JEWISH INTEREST

December 2025

Fed Star

11A

Finding Happiness Aging Jewishly — What our traditions teach us about growing old.

By Rabbi Barbara Aiello

N

a n l o o ke d u p from her Kindle and observed the man she had been married to for more than forty years. “Kurt, you’re pacing, and when you’re pacing, I know something’s not right.”

for G-d and your fellow human beings, do so with no ulterior motive. Take an action because it is the right thing to do, not because you expect something in return.

G-d Will Save Us

Be joyful in the knowledge that when you face troubles, Rabbi Barbara the G-d of your under“OK, so I’m pacing, what’s Aiello standing will come to your the big deal?” was Kurt’s rescue, with a fresh perspective, a defensive response. Undaunted, new thought, or an idea for how to Nan continued, “The big deal is that solve a problem. something’s bothering you. I’m here.

I’m listening. So, you’ll tell me.”

Joyous Studies

Reluctant as he was to open up, Kurt knew it was time to talk. After all, it had been more than a month, and he felt miserable. “Rosh Hashanah usually picks me up,” he said, “but this year it’s not. It’s the news, the politics, the war, and the nasty talk all around.

Our kids and grandkids live far away, and as nice as it is, the virtual hugs just don’t cut it. For some reason, I feel like something’s missing. I... I....”

Nan looked closely at Kurt. Were those tears in his eyes? The year had been difficult. Several close friends had passed away, but only now did Nan realize how deeply unhappy Kurt was.

Find a subject that interests you and study it with energy and great joy.

Immersing yourself in study helps reduce disturbing thoughts.

The Happy Ascetic

We all want the good things in life, but do not let an obsession, such as a desire for a vacation, a bigger house, the latest electronics, or more money, lead you into depression. Celebrate that you have the capacity to overcome these desires and remain grateful for what you have.

G-d Is in Your Words

When you pray, meditate, or reflect, visualize that G-d is invested within the letters and words you choose.

Zernitsky writes that “words are the What do our traditions teach us clothing for your thoughts.” Clothing about happiness? What can we do that is neat and clean brings out a to overcome sadness? According to person’s inner beauty.

Tzvi Freeman (How the Likewise, your words of Baal Shem Tov Changed Take an action prayer provide cloththe Way We Think About because it is ing for G-d’s presence, Happiness , Chabad. org), the famous sage, the right thing just as well-spoken words reveal your inner the Ba’al Shem Tov, had to do... thoughts. an answer. A respected ra b b i w h o l i ve d i n The Ba’al Shem Tov taught that in Poland in the 18th century, his name every word you speak, you should means “the man who has an excellent intend to sweeten a relationship. Let reputation.” He brought about major go of harshness or fault-finding, and changes in Judaism, encouraging instead enter a mode of compassion, rabbis to refrain from focusing on the seeking the positive. negative and to teach people how to have a joyful relationship with G-d.

Finally, our sages remind us: “The joy we are talking about is not the How is happiness achieved? Rabbinic screaming and shouting of a crazed sages from historical to modern times fanatic. It is joy with a purpose. When have interpreted the Ba’al Shem Tov’s we offer a helping hand to another, teachings and applied them to our when we marshal our efforts to bring lives. According to Leon Zernitsky happiness to our world, we find that (Eighteen Joyous Quotations of the we are living in joy.”

Ba’al Shem Tov, Chabad.org), these teachings emphasize principles that For ten years Rabbi Barbara Aiello alleviate sadness and lead us to live served the Aviva Campus for Senior in joy: Life as resident rabbi. Her most popular columns are now pubTrust and Celebrate lished in her recent book, Aging Imagine that G-d’s loving presence Jewishly, available on Amazon is continually with you and protecting books. Rabbi Barbara now lives you. Remember that you are bound to and works in Italy where she is the Creator, and the Creator is bound rabbi of Italy’s first Reconstructo you. You are never alone. tionist synagogue. Contact her at Rabbi@RabbiBarbara.com Sincerity and Joy When you do something out of love

Saturday evening, March 21, 2026

Save the Date!

HONORING Jay & Susan Weiss Stuart & Estelle Price

SPECIAL “MENSCHEN” Don Belmont Ken Goldstein

EVENT CHAIRS Joan Meltzer Blumkin Daryl Sissman

Featuring

“Bubby’s Kitchen” A musical theatre journey created & performed by Cantor Shira Ginsburg Call 239-455-3030 for more information about becoming a sponsor and purchasing tickets.

4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL 34119

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Fed Star

December 2025

JEWISH INTEREST

The Hanukkah Miracle of the Hostages’ Return

By Chef Dalia Hemed

T

he release of the hostages offers new perspectives on the timeless Hanukkah story.

With the release of all the remaining hostages in October 2025, Hanukkah will likely be a particularly joyous and deeply meaningful celebration for many, reinforcing the holiday's themes of light, miracles, and triumph over darkness.

Hanukkah 2025 will be marked by a heightened sense of gratitude, joy, and hope.

While the holiday traditionally commemorates the Maccabees' victory and the miracle of the oil, this year's celebration will carry the powerful, contemporary significance of freedom and deliverance. Many observances and reflections will connect the ancient story with the modernday miracle of the hostages' return.

Hanukkah—it’s my favorite time of year. It’s sufganiyot time.

Sufganiyot, jelly-filled doughnuts, have a long and interesting history and a special connection to the Hanukkah holiday.

It started feeling like Hanukkah in Israel about two days after Sukkot,

when the first vendors started frying the delicious and high-caloric sufganiyot in vats of oil in front of bakeries and on the streets in towns throughout the country.

they are fried sufganiyot, they are salty and full of twists, including an offer to fill a layer with fried eggplant (it’s still Hanukkah food, it’s FRIED) and top it with matbucha salad and tahini.

Just as malls in America rush the Christmas season by putting up decorations right after Halloween, some vendors in the heart of Jerusalem were making sufganiyot in the middle of Sukkot.

My version of sufganiya is an incarnation of three different recipes that came together into one upgraded version of a salty (and not dairy) sufganiya.

Sufganiyot are yummy, jelly-filled (or these days filled with almost any sweet flavor under the sun) globs of fried dough lovingly sprinkled with a dusting of white sugar.

Seriously, my family waits all year for this. The opportunity to eat the world’s best sufganiyot for dinner (yes, we don’t feed the kids beforehand—this is not dessert, this is DINNER) is amazing and worthy of excitement.

A sufganiya (doughnut), if you must delve deeply into its definition, is a "food made from dough fried in deep oil."

Thought you’d seen it all in the overthe-top sufganiyot? Well, think again. Sufganiyot are no longer just the classic ones I ate in kindergarten

One of them is the recipe for my "challah bread." The second inspiration comes from “traditional sufganiyot with a twist,” a recipe in which the addition of mashed potatoes enriches the dough and gives it an especially airy and soft texture.

Finally, the third recipe came from the sfenj (Moroccan donuts) that has been with me for years.

Personal Chef Dalia Hemed can be reached at daliahemed@msn.com. when I was a little girl, with strawberry jam and powdered sugar.

The dough combines well with salty flavors and brings a change to the traditional sufganiyot and surprising flavors, especially good for those who are not fond of sweet flavors. The sufganiya can also be used to make buns in the spirit of the Hanukkah celebration to serve when entertaining the family.

Tradition is a tradition, and I am not going to break it. Almost. Although

Salty Sufganiyot Ingredients: • 6 cups bread flour • 1½ cups water • 2 medium potatoes, cooked and mashed into cold mashed potatoes • 2 eggs • 6 tablespoons sugar • 2 flat tablespoons dry yeast • 1 tablespoon salt • ¼ cup vegetable oil • Vegetable oil (for frying) • 1 tablespoon matbucha (tomato salad, optional) • 1 tablespoon tahini sauce • 2 slices fried eggplant • ½ chopped onion • Handful of parsley • ½ cup diced tomato • 1 hardboiled egg Instructions 1. Mix the flour, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Pour the water, eggs, oil, and mashed potatoes into the mixer bowl.

2.Add the dry ingredients mixture to the mixer bowl on top of the liquids.

3. Using a kneading hook, knead at speed 1 for 5 minutes. Stop the mixer and add salt. Continue kneading at speed 2 for another 5 minutes.

4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface, then to a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 2 hours.

5. Gently remove the dough from the bowl, stretch it into a square, and fold each corner to the center. Turn the dough over and roll it out. Let it rest for about 10 minutes, covered.

6. Grease baking paper with a thin layer of oil.

7. Divide the dough into 24 pieces.

Roll each into a ping-pong-sized ball and place neatly on the greased paper. Oil each ball lightly and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise for about an hour or until doubled in volume.

8. In a frying pan, heat vegetable oil to medium-high for deep frying (about 160°C). Fry 5–6 balls each round. After 2 minutes, turn each sufganiya and fry for another 2 minutes.

9. Remove to a colander and let cool. Once cool, cut in half, spread tahini and matbucha on both sides, and insert slices of fried eggplant and hardboiled egg.

10. Sprinkle with parsley, chopped onion, and diced tomato. Close the sufganiyot and drizzle with tahini on top.

JEWISH INTEREST

December 2025

Fed Star

13A

Five Films and One French Thriller 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.

Five new films with Jewish connections debut this month, but only two, Ella McCay and Anaconda, open widely in theaters. Two others are Netflix releases with short theatrical runs for Oscar eligibility, and the last is a Hallmark Channel “holiday season” film.

Ella McCay

Opening December 12, Ella McCay is set in late 2008 and follows Ella McCay (Emma Mackey), lieutenant governor of an unnamed state preparing to succeed Governor Bill (Albert Brooks, 78), who is leaving for an Obama cabinet post. Jamie Lee Curtis, 66, co-stars as Ella’s aunt, Helen McCray, and Julie Kavner, 75, appears as Estelle, Ella’s secretary and the film’s narrator.

James L. Brooks, 85, directed and wrote the film. A six-time Oscar winner, Brooks began as a news reporter in the mid-1960s before creating,

writing, and directing TV classics such as Room 222, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Rhoda (co-starring Kavner), Taxi, and The Simpsons (which he co-created). He has made nine films, including the acclaimed Terms of Endearment, Broadcast News (also with Albert Brooks), and As Good as It Gets. His last film, How Do You Know (2010), flopped, but here’s hoping this new project marks a triumphant return for a legendary talent.

Anaconda

Anaconda opens December 25. This action comedy/horror film plays off the 1997 cult hit of the same name, which spawned four cheesy sequels.

The 2025 version follows two friends, Doug (Paul Rudd, 56) and Griff (Jack Black, 56), who travel to the Amazon to remake their favorite flick, only to encounter a very real, very deadly anaconda. Ione Skye, 55, plays Doug’s wife. She is best known as John Cusack’s love interest in Say Anything (1989). Her mother is Jewish, and her estranged father is 1960s folk-rock star Donovan.

Wake Up a Dead Man

Wake Up a Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery opens briefly in theaters November 26 and premieres on

Netflix December 12. It is the third entry in the Knives Out series, with Daniel Craig returning as master detective Benoit Blanc. The cast includes Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, and Mila Kunis, 42, as police chief Geraldine Scott.

Jay Kelly

A comedy-drama, Jay Kelly opened in select theaters November 14 and begins streaming on Netflix December 5. The film stars George Clooney, Adam Sandler, 59, Laura Dern, and Billy Crudup. It follows the friendship between famous actor Jay Kelly (Clooney) and his manager, Ron Sukenick (Sandler), as they travel and reflect on their lives.

Directed and co-written by Noah Baumbach, 56, who grew up in Brooklyn with a Jewish father and non-Jewish mother, the film continues Baumbach’s exploration of relationships and identity. Though not religious, he credits his Jewish background as a major creative influence. His earlier Netflix films The Meyerowitz Stories (2017) and Marriage Story (2019) earned strong acclaim.

Sandler gave a fine performance as Danny Meyerowitz, and Scarlett Johansson, now 40, received a Best

Actress Oscar nomination for Marriage Story.

The Hunt

On December 2, AppleTV+ premieres The Hunt, a French-language thriller filmed in France. Two episodes air December 3, followed by weekly installments through December 31. Melanie Laurent, 42, a French Jew, stars. She played Jewish women in Inglourious Basterds (2009) and Beginners (2010) and has won two César Awards, the French equivalent of the Oscars.

Oy to the World

The Hallmark Channel produces about 30 original Christmas films each year.

In 2022 and 2023, it finally offered two good Hanukkah-themed ones, Hanukkah on Rye and Round and Round. In 2024, there was a so-so interfaith film, Leah’s Perfect Gift. Oy to the World premieres December 14, 2025, another not very good interfaith romance. (Tip: Take advantage of Hallmark’s one-week free trial to catch the 2022 and 2023 films.)

Long ago, Hallmark made quality films for CBS. Loving Leah (2009) remains a standout Jewish-themed Hallmark/CBS production, available now on free apps like Tubi and Plex.

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Greater Naples

Jewish BOOK Festival

Welcome to the 11th Annual Greater N

We are excited to present the following authors for you Please visit JEWISHBOOKFESTIVAL.ORG to learn about b All but the Dec. 1 event take place at

s t ha n e v ved se Thi n mo LE beeTEMP to LOM A SH

by Back ar l Popu d n a Dem

One in Six Million

Twice

A moving novel in which a man, filled with regret over a lost love, is miraculously given one day to live his life over again.

Mitch Albom is an internationally bestselling author of inspirational fiction and nonfiction, including Tuesdays with Morrie. His works explore hope, meaning, and human connection.

Platinum Patrons will be invited to a private pre-event reception with Mitch Albom.

by Lew Paper

by Christine Kuehn

Monday, Jan. 12 1 PM • $30

Wednesday, Jan. 28 1 PM • $30

Tuesday, Feb. 10 1 PM • $30

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A childless couple finds an abandoned baby in 1942 Poland.

Pinned to her blanket is her name, Maria, and birth date.

They raise her as their own, but this true story reveals how Maria comes to know her true identity.

A former FBI agent witnesses the abduction of Teamsters president Jimmy Hoffa from a restaurant parking lot in 1975 and then has to decide what he should do.

A propulsive, never-before-told story of one family's shocking involvement as Nazi and Japanese spies during WWII and the pivotal role they played in the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

Hi tw wh rom col rap

Lew Paper is a lawyer and author of nine books, blending meticulous historical research with narrative drive, often exploring American politics and untold true stories.

Christine Kuehn is a historian and writer specializing in Holocaustera biographies, committed to preserving survivor stories and bringing lesser-known acts of resistance to light.

Al aut in I wr in E

Amy Fish is an author and storyteller known for memoir and narrative nonfiction. She often focuses on themes of justice, resilience, and moral courage.

Exclusively Sponsored by Ginsberg Eye

Family of Spies

by Amy Fish

by Mitch Albom Monday, December 1 • 7 PM • $45 (includes one signed book)

Legacy of Lies

You To Our Sponsors Become a Book Thank Festival Patron Jewish Book Festival Sponsors (as of November 6,We 2025) are grateful to these businesses atron Jewish Book Festival Sponsors andBecome receivea Book numerous oursorganizations tually Yand Festivalbenefits!

Patron Jewish Book FestivalVir Sponsors PLATINUM

Elaine Rosen Debbie Coope Ellaine Rosen Ann Cowen Patti Bloom for their support of the 2019-20 Greater Naples Jewish BookJewish Festival:Book Judy Roth Terri David Rosalee Bogo for Patron their support of theSilver 2019-20 Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival: Platinum Gold Jewish Book Festival Levels and Benefits eFestival 2020-21 Marc Saperstein David Feinstei Karen Budnick Benefits ron Benefits: $500 $360 Silver $225 Platinum Gold Jane Schiff Maureen Feins 9 4 4 1 C O R K S C R E W PA L M S C I R C L E , S U I T E 2 0 1 • E S T E R O , F L 3 3 9 2 8 • 2 3 9 . 3 2 5 . 2 0 2 0 Paul Budnick Patron $500 $360 ts to allSilver 12 Benefits: events (a $320 value) S T R E Eü T SOUTH • NAPLES, FL 34102 • 239.325.2015 • GINSBERGEYE.COM ü ü 7 7 8 T H$225 Anne Schuchman Arnan Finkelst Norma Carl Tickets to all 12 events (a $320 value) ü üü ü ü of Lori Gottlieb’s book Ilana Seligman Marlene Finkel Shelley Einhorn ü Copy$225 of Lori Gottlieb’s book ü ü ü Arlene Shapiro Eloyse Fisher Judith Finer*As of October 13th Pass & separate check-in ü ü ü FastPass & separate check-in ü ü ü rs Donald Shapiro Louise Forman Freedman ou Y y ü ll ua rt Vi gnition in Federation StarStar ü Recognition in Federation Arlene Sobol Spencer Forma Ellen Frankel ü üü ü ü Greater Naples Jewish Book Jeremy Freedman üVIP seatingJewish Book rved VIP seating Susan Sokolov Madeline Foste Reserved on Festival Sponsors ü ü eFestival 2020-21 Sisterhood Sisterhood Janet Solot Patricia Gage Myra Friedman Temple Shalom Reserved seating area We are grateful to these businesses Temple Shalom rved seating üü and organizations ts! üforarea Strengthening our temple, our community and each other Joyce Steckman Susan Garelick Nancy Garfien their support of the 2019-20 Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival: Freevoucher(s) book voucher(s) 11 book efits 22 Phyllis Strome Nancy Garfink Brenda Gignac ü Patron event with an author TBA ü ü *As of October 13th lver on event with an author TBA Deborah Waranch Priscilla Gerbe Peter Gignac ü ü wish Book Festival Sponsors ü 225Extra luncheon event ticket for guest omen’s Jeffrey Waranch Cindi Goldfin Lisa Gorman luncheon event ticket for guest are grateful to these businesses and organizations ü ü ultural Melvin Goldfin Larry Israelite Temple Shalom port of the 2019-20 GreaterVenues Naples Jewish Book Festival: Strengthening our temple, our community and each other ü lliance SILVER Jan Goldman Nancy Kahn Hilton Naples: 5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples estival Patron Jewish Book Festival Sponsors üJewish Congregation Howard Agranat Donna Goldst Marsha Karp of Marco Island: 991 Winterberry Drive, Marco Island nüNaples: 5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples Naples Conference Center: 1455 Pine Ridge Road, Naples Sheila Agranat Diane Goldste Lin Klein We are grateful to these businesses and organizations rous benefits!

Naples Jewish Congregation: 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples h Congregation of Marco Island: 991 Winterberry Drive, Marco Island Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival: Diane Aronson Carole Greene for their support of the 2019-20 Fran Kroll Temple Shalom: 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples Sisterhood s Conference Center: 1455 Pine Ridge Road, Naples n Levels and Benefits Temple Shalom Phyllis Barolsky Sherry Greenfi Anna Levin s Jewish Congregation: 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples tinum Gold Silver Stacey Baum Andree Haas Laurie Lieberman le Shalom: 4630 Pine RidgeWebsite Road, Naples & Email Festival 500 $360 $225 Check the events you will be attending for easy reference: Emily Berkowitz Ronna Hain Stephen Light Visit the official Festival website at www.jewishbookfestival.org for more Tue, November 5 @ 7:00pm - HN Elyssa Friedland Harriet Berneman Carol Hirsch Arlene Litow üinformation ü on the authorsü and their books, event updates and a printable order Andrew Gross & Steve Israel Mon, November 11 @ 1:00pm - NCC EPIPHANY SALON & SPA form. Have questionsSisterhood that have not been answered in this insert?

Send an email Louis Berneman Susan Horowit Robin Mintz

Mon, December 2 @ 11:30am HN Alana Newhouse Temple ü Shalom 14700 Tamiami Trail N • Naples Check the events you will be attending for easy reference: ü fedstar18@gmail.com ü or call the office at Festival 239.263.4205. Sponsors e p i p h a n y s a lMon, o n -December s p a . c9 o @m 7:00pm - HN Barry, Mansbach & Zweibel atron Jewish Book theto official Festival website atFederation www.jewishbookfestival.org for more Mark Blaskey Lew Paper Daymaker Hair SalonWendy Israelit Schedule of Events: Tue, November 5 @ 7:00pm - HN Elyssa Friedland ü on theüauthors andütheir books, event updates and a printable DEBORAH Thu, December 19 @ 7:00pm - HN Adam Chandler & Stephen Silverman mation order , Marco Island We are grateful to these businesses and organizations

ZVIBLEMAN Penni Blaskey Judy Isserlis Jackie Paulson Daymaker Hair Salon Check the events you will be attending for easy reference: nefits!

Mon, November 11 @ 1:00pm NCC Andrew Gross & Steve Israel Check the events you will be attending for easy reference: Wed, January 8 @ 1:00pm - TS Melanie Benjamin & Pam Jenoff ü ü that ünot Tickets ARE beenTransferable answered in this insert?Naples Send an email Book oHave Island questions for have their support of the 2019-20 Greater Jewish Festival: Tue, November 5 @ 7:00pm - HN Elyssa Friedland Mon, January 13 @ 1:00pm Marra B. Gad2&@Angela Himsel - NJC Mon, December 11:30am - HN Alana Newhouse Cipora Brown Arline Kaplan Susan Pittelman dstar18@gmail.com Consider purchasing or a Patron Festival Package.office Even if can’t make it to all call the Federation atyou 239.263.4205.

Mon, November 11 @ 1:00pm - NCC Andrew Gross & Steve Israel Tue, January 28 @ 7:00pm - HN Ken Sutak & 9Elizabeth Weitzman üBenefits Mon, December @ 7:00pm - HN Barry, Mansbach & Zweibel Peggy Brown Bobbie Katz Estelle Price Sisterhood Mon, December 2 @ 11:30am - HN Alana Newhouse 12 Silver events, you can gift your tickets to friends, colleagues and family members.

Wed, February 5 @ 7:30pm - TS Lori Gottlieb Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival isDecember presented by:- HN Adam Chandler & Stephen Silverman Thu, 19 @ 7:00pm Temple Shalom Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival is presented by: ü Deena Caplan Deborah Kohl Mon, 9 @each 7:00pm Stuart Price Wed, February 26 @ 1:00pm - TS Bob Mankoff & Butnick/Oppenheimer Strengthening our temple, our December community and other - HN Barry, Mansbach & Zweibel Check thereference: events you will be attending for easy reference: $225 Check the events you will be attending for easy Wed, January 8 @ 1:00pm - TS Melanie Benjamin & Pam Jenoff Thu, December 19 @ 7:00pm - HN Adam Chandler & Stephen Silverman Wed, March 4 @ 1:00pm - JCMI Jack Fairweather & Jack Hersch 2 1 Multi-Author Events Ellen Chaney Toby Kosloff Nathaniel Ritter of Greater Naples Tue, November 7:00pmBenjamin - HN &Elyssa Friedland Wed, March 11 @ 7:30pm Marra B. Gad & Angela Himsel ü Wed, January 8 @ 1:00pm - TS 5 @Melanie Pam Jenoff - TSMon, January Josh Frank13 @ 1:00pm - NJC Marcia Cohodes Gracia Kuller Susan Ritter der a Patron Festival Package.

Even if you can’t make it to all Mon, January 13 @ 1:00pm - NJC 11 Marra B. Gad-&NCC Angela Himsel Gross & Steve Israel Mon, November @ 1:00pm Andrew Tue, January 28 @ 7:00pm - HN Ken Sutak & Elizabeth Weitzman üForpurchasing ü the events with more than one author, due to travel arrangements, the order Check the events you will be attending for easy reference: ü

efits!

for their support of the 2019-20 Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival:

wishand Book Festivalnumerous PatronWe Levels and Benefits Greater Naples are grateful to these businesses organizations We are gratefuland to these businesses and organizations receive benefits!

Thank You to Our Sponsors*

W omen’s Cultural A lliance Sisterhood

Venues

Thank You to Our Sponsors*

Strengthening our temple, our community and each other

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Strengthening our temple, our community and each other

Festival Website & Email Strengthening our temple, our community and each other

Schedule of Events:

Tickets ARE Transferable

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or inmore Tue, January @ 7:00pm - HN 2 @Ken Sutak & -Elizabeth Weitzman November 5 @ 7:00pm - HN Elyssa Friedland which theygift present be decided a few days prior toTue,and their event.

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blelike order Wed, February 5 @ 7:30pm - TS Lori Gottlieb Andrew Gross & Steve Mon, 11 @ 1:00pm - NCC Israel to know the order, please email fedstar18@gmail.com orNovember call 239.263.4205.

Mon, December 9 @events 7:00pm -you HN will Barry, Mansbach & Zweibel Wed, February 26 @ 1:00pm - TS Check the be attending for easy reference: an emailü Wed, February 26 @ 1:00pm - TS Bob Mankoff & Butnick/Oppenheimer Mon, December 2 @ 11:30am - HN Alana Newhouse

Tue, November 5 @ 7:00pm - HN Elyssa Friedland es• Physical tickets of Events: Multi-Author Events will not be issued. SimplySchedule check in at each event.

• If you cannot attend an event, you can give your ticket to a friend.

All authors appearing at the 2019-20

al.org for more

Mon, December 9 @ 7:00pm - HN

Thu, December 19 @ 7:00pm - HN

Lori Gottlieb

Mankoff & Butnick/Oppenheimer 2019-20 Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival! Bob Thu, December 19 @ 7:00pm - HN Adam Chandler & Stephen Silverman Wed, March 4 @ 1:00pm - JCMI Jack Fairweather & Jack Hersch

Wed, March 4 @ 1:00pm - JCMI Barry, Mansbach & Zweibel

Jack Fairweather & Jack Hersch

Wed, January - TS &Wed, March 11 @ 7:30pm - TS 8 @ 1:00pm Josh Frank Adam Chandler Stephen Silverman

Melanie Benjamin & Pam Jenoff

Wed, March 11 @ 7:30pm - TS

Josh Frank

Naples Jewish Book Festival

ur in-person enjoyment. becoming a Patron or to purchase individual tickets. the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

Six Days in Bombay

3..2..1…We’re on the Air

by Robert Steinfeld

by Tova Mirvis

Wednesday, Feb. 25 1 PM • $30

Friday, March 6 1 PM • $30

Tuesday, March 17 1 PM • $30

istorical fiction following interwined lives in 1960s Bombay, here ambition, forbidden mance, and cultural change llide against the backdrop of a pidly modernizing India.

A memoir from a seasoned TV producer recounting behindthe-scenes moments from live broadcasts, celebrity interviews, newsroom crises, and the evolving world of television journalism.

A gripping, true story of a close-knit religious community shattered when a shocking act forces members to confront loyalty, betrayal, and the limits of justice.

lka Joshi is the bestselling thor of The Henna Artist. Born India and raised in the U.S., she rites vivid, sensory novels rooted Indian history and culture.

Exclusively Sponsored by WCA

Robert Steinfeld is a veteran television producer and media executive with decades of experience in broadcast news, talk shows, and special event programming.

Sponsored by MCA

Tova Mirvis is the author of several novels and memoirs exploring themes of faith, identity, and belonging, often drawing from her Orthodox Jewish upbringing.

by Alka Joshi

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n an er

k kel er ne fine

tein ein e field

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We Would Never

Louis Graveraet Kaufman

Carole King

by Jane Eisner Monday, April 13 1 PM • $30

by Ann Berman Monday, March 30 1 PM • $30 Biography of the influential banker who shaped U.S. finance in the early 20th century, guided the growth of major institutions, and became a notable philanthropist.

Ann Berman is a writer and historian whose work focuses on American financial history, business leaders, and their cultural contributions.

The life of the groundbreaking singer-songwriter who redefined American pop, from her Brill Building hits to her landmark album Tapestry and decades of musical influence.

Jane Eisner is an award-winning journalist and author, known for her deep cultural profiles and leadership as former editor-inchief of The Forward.

Exclusively Sponsored by Gulfshore Playhouse

JBF Patrons (as of October 30, 2025) Debbie Laites Judi Lazan Dale Lazar Lynn Lazar Dana Lefkowitz Bettye Leibowitz Hilda Levine Leda Lubin Linda Lupin Marci Margolis Anne Melko Karen Moss Marla Osgood Rick Osgood Jeani Park Ben Post Susan Rabin Alice Richter Mae Riefberg Sarah Rockler Nancy Schachtman Karen Scheck Anne Schnesel Deborah Schreier Gale Schulman Harriet Schweitzer Mark Shiffman Charles Siegel Lori Siegel Martin Silverstein Gail Smith Carol Smoler Barbara Steckler

Sharon Stein Dana Strull Fritzi Thorner Heidi Thorner Allison Tucker Jacqueline Urso Jay Weintraub Laurie Weiss Barbara Winthrop Leona Wreschner Russell Yale Susan Yale Judy Zahn BRONZE Leslie Aderson Doris Adlestein Sheryl Affrime Sudy Altholz Nancy Armocida Angie Aronoff Patti Badiner Wynne Baruch Lea Bendes Natalue Berman Minda Bernberg Rose Bernstein Jill Binder Ellen Blank Jamie Blatter Ellen Bohn Gitlitz Tim Broms Nancy Brother

Ann Brown Stewart Brownstein Sandy Burton Barbara Carlstrom Tom Carlstrom Jacqueline Chizever Nan Ciralsky Diane Clarke Geri Cohen Rochelle Cohen Marilyn Davidson Judy Dawson Sherry Delinko Elyse Dickman Gayle Dorio Benjamin Dubin Larry Dukatz Linda Dukatz Janett Edelberg Susan Elfman Sallyann Endleman David Epstein Pam Epstein Karen Ezrine Leslie Feldman Geraldine Feldman Richard Felzer Rosetta Felzer Susan Feuerman Paula Filler Rnald Filler James Fine Marcia Fine

Phyllis Fine Susan Gallagher Phyllis Garon Ken Getnick Molly Getnick Heidi Gilbert Howard Gilbert Cheryl Ginsberg Marlene Ginsberg Elizabeth Girardat Hilda Glazer Renee Glickman Mark Goetz Diane Goldberg Hannah Goodman Larry Goodman Monica Goodwin Helene Gordon Barrie Graham Arlene Griff Wendy Grindstaff Elaine Griver Jean Haven Karen Herbst Deborah Hermalyn Burton Hirsch Linda Hirsch Sunny Hochberg Ronna Hochman Andrew Ichel Rochelle Jacob Jeanne Kagin Charlene Kerner

Judith Kessel Carolyn Kimmel Susan Koeppel Ruth-Lynn Kosiner Susie Kravetz Barbara Kushnir Barbara Lefkowitz Helene Lerner Arlene Levin Howard Levin Stacy Levin Martin Levine Evelyn Lipschutz Jay Lipschutz Jacqueline Lipton Debbie Lurie Phyllis Luts Shirley Lutz Paula Maisel Robert Maisel Marcy Malc Jeffrey Margolis Sheila Mesulam Lynn Miller Rochelle Miller Marsha Moranz Gail Morris Erica Morse Darlene Muller Arthur Murphy Laura Murphy Saranne Murray Helene Naimon

Carol Orloff Barbara Ostrolenk Ann Packman David Packman Karen Pam Joel Pittelman Iris Podolsky Steve Podolsky Terri Polacheck Barry Rabin Nancy Rabin Sandy Randall Elaine Rapoport Estelle Rauch John Reiches Alan Reinberg Nancy Reinberg Sue Reiver Deede Remenick Ellen Rodwick William Rodwick Marilyn Ross Midge Rozen Arnie Rubin Lynn Rubin Marguerite Rubin Linda Russell Elaine Samuels Gary Sanders Karen Sanders Laurie Sandler Sandra Sanfilippo Carole Schwartz

Dorothy Schwebel Stuart Schweitzer Millie Sernovitz Jane Shaw Dina Shein Ricki Shine Julie Shlensky Michael Shlensky Iris Shur Gay Silberg Cathy Silver Linda Simon Ruth Simon Rosalie Slansky Elaine Soffer Gail Solomon Hal Stein Jennie Stein Barbara Stivers Jim Storch Marilyn Storch June Streisand Denise Sultan Ann Swartz Shira Swartz

Marla Taub Suzanne Tolpin Lynn Valinetz Joan Van Berg Ann Varsano Joan Vazakas Lisa Vogel Gail Volk Sara Waldstein Leslie Wasserman Marianne Wassmer Sydelle Weinberger Suellen Weiner Ellen Weisberg Joan Werhane Jack Wiadro Nancy Wiadro Phyllis Winski Lauri B Wishner Deborah Wyman Cathy Zacks Joni Zalasky Cindy Zive Shelley Zucker

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ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

December 2025

Special in Uniform Band Headlines Naples Partnership Event

O

n October 28, 2025, more than 100 community members united at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center for Jewish National Fund-USA and the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples' “Harmony in Uniform: The Sound of Inclusion.”

The inspirational evening featured an incredible performance from Jewish National Fund-USA’s Special in Uniform Band. These musically inclined Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers with disabilities perform with pride, passion, and talent, inspiring global audiences and showing the world that there are no limits.

Attendees also heard from Lt. Col. (Res.) Tiran Attia, Director of Special in Uniform, who discussed the importance of inclusion and how the program has changed the lives of hundreds of Israelis with disabilities.

Since 2014, Jewish National FundUSA and its partners (donors) nationwide have supported Special in Uniform, a groundbreaking program that integrates young adults with disabilities into various sectors of the Israeli military,

SIXTEENTH ANNUAL MARCO ISLAND COMMUNITY CHANUKAH CELEBRATION

Sponsored by Residents and Guests on Marco Island and Vicinity are invited to CELEBRATE on SUNDAY, December 21st, 2025 at 5:30 PM Jewish Congregation of Marco Island 991 Winterberry Drive Marco Island, FL 34145 (239) 642-0800

where they serve according to their unique talents and abilities. The program then helps these soldiers transition into civilian life after service. Today, more than 950 participants are enrolled in Special in Uniform, and the Special in Uniform Band has performed over 500 times throughout the United States and Israel.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Naples has sponsored Special in Uniform through grants from its allocations committee for Israel and overseas.

For more information about Jewish National Fund-USA or to learn about upcoming events in Naples, visit jnf.org or contact Josh Mellits at jmellits@ jnf.org or 941-462-1330 x865.

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www.marcojcmi.com Join us for a Candle Lighting Ceremony and Chanukah Music!

Lots of holiday spirit for the entire family Chanukah holiday treats will be served!

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

December 2025

Fed Star

17A

Comedian

Elon Gold Tuesday, February 3 7:00pm Hilton Naples 5111 Tamiami Trail N.

Elon Gold is a comedian, actor and writer, whose one-hour Netflix stand-up special, “Elon Gold: Chosen & Taken,” received wide acclaim from audiences and peers alike and is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video. He has made 10 appearances on the “Tonight Show” and performed on “The Late Late Show with James Corden.” His routines have gone viral and are shared by millions around the globe.

Elon has starred in the NBC series, “In-Laws.” Prior guest star credits include “Crashing,” “Frasier,” “Chappelle’s Show” and “Chelsea Lately.” He was also a writer/performer on ABC’s “The Dana Carvey Show,” can be seen in a recurring role on Season 11 of HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” and is in the upcoming Kal Penn feature, “Trust Me, I’m A Doctor.” He has also just wrapped filming the titular role in the upcoming feature “The Badchan,” from renowned Israeli director Gidi Dar. Elon has a new 30-minute stand-up special, “Sets in the City; Elon Gold’s Favorite People,” available on YouTube, and is on a theater tour readying his next comedy special.

This show is guaranteed to sell out.

Get your tickets today!

Presented by

f $180 for a seat in the front three rows, cocktail reception from 6:00 - 7:00pm plus meet-and-greet with Elon ONLY 20 VIP SEATS LEFT on the stage after the show sOLD OUt f $72 rows 4-6 $72 andseats aisle seats f $54 for general admission seating Tickets include one drink at Hilton lobby bar and complimentary valet parking.

For tickets: ChabadNaples.com/ElonGold or call 239.262.4474

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Fed Star

December 2025

RABBINICAL REFLECTIONS

The Spirit of Chanukah A light of dedication and hope Rabbi Howard S. Herman DD Naples Jewish Congregation

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hanukah, the Festival of Lights, is far more than a celebration of oil that miraculously lasted eight days. It is a timeless reminder of the power of faith, resilience, and unwavering dedication to ideals that transcend generations.

At its heart, Chanukah commemorates the victory of the Maccabees — a small group of Jewish fighters — against the mighty Seleucid Empire. But more than a military triumph, it was a spiritual one. The Maccabees fought not just for land or power, but for the right to live according to their beliefs, to preserve their traditions, and to keep the flame of Jewish identity burning.

Dedication to Ideals

The word "Chanukah" itself means "dedication." It recalls the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after it had been defiled. This act of rededication is symbolic of a deeper, personal commitment — to values, to community, and to spiritual integrity.

In today’s world, the story of Chanukah invites us to ask, “What are we dedicated to?” Are we willing to stand up for truth, justice, and compassion even when it’s inconvenient or unpopular?

The Maccabees remind us that even a small group, driven by conviction, can illuminate the darkness.

prophets, expresses the hope that the Jewish people and their homeland will serve as an example of moral courage, justice, and compassion for the world.

Just as the menorah’s light shines outward, so too does Israel strive to share its values, innovations, and humanitarian efforts with all nations.

Lighting the Way Forward

Chanukah reminds us that being a Each night of Chanukah, we add one “light to the nations” is not just about more candle to the menorah, increasnational pride — it’s about responsibiling the light rather than diminishing it. ity. It’s about dedicating ourselves to This tradition teaches us that spiritual ideals that uplift humanity, promote growth is incremental. We don’t need peace, and inspire others to purto be perfect all at once sue goodness. The story — but we must strive to Chanukah, and the We don’t need of bring more light into the ongoing journey of Israel, to be perfect all both call us to illuminate world each day. at once — but the world with acts of Whether it’s through kindness, wisdom, and we must strive hope. acts of kindness, standing up for what’s right, to bring more or nurturing our inner Let the light into the Never Light Go Out spiritual lives, Chanukah calls us to be bearers of world each day. Perhaps the most important message of Chanulight. It’s a celebration of kah is this: Do not allow the light you hope in the face of adversity, and a kindle to go out. The flames of the call to remain steadfast in our values. menorah are fragile, yet they endure Israel: A Light to the Nations because we tend to them night after The ideals of Chanukah are deeply night. In our lives, the light we create — connected to the vision of Israel as through our actions, our faith, and our a “light to the nations.” This ancient dedication — must be protected and phrase, rooted in the words of the nurtured. Challenges may arise, and darkness may threaten, but it is our responsibility to keep the flame burning.

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THE SMALL CONGREGATION WITH A BIG HEART

Let us remember that every act of goodness, every moment of courage, and every commitment to our ideals adds to the light in the world. As we celebrate Chanukah, may we be inspired not only to kindle the menorah, but to ensure that its light — and the light within each of us — never goes out.

Modern Relevance of Chanukah

In our rapidly changing world, the message of Chanukah is more relevant than ever. Today, many people face challenges to their identity, beliefs, and traditions. Chanukah reminds us that dedication is not passive – it is active, courageous, and transformative. Lighting the menorah is not only a remembrance of ancient miracles, but also a declaration of presence, pride, and purpose.

Chanukah encourages us to stand up for our values, even when it is difficult or unpopular. It calls us to bring light into the world through acts of kindness, justice, and compassion. In a society that often values convenience over conviction, Chanukah inspires us to remain steadfast in our ideals and to nurture the flame of hope within ourselves and our communities.

The festival also serves as a reminder that small acts can have a big impact.

Just as the Maccabees’ courage changed the course of history, each person’s commitment to goodness can

help dispel darkness and create positive change. By rededicating ourselves to our values and striving to be a “light to the nations,” we honor the spirit of Chanukah and help build a brighter future for all.

Chanukah Ideals in Action

The spirit of Chanukah — dedication, resilience, and bringing light into darkness — continues to inspire people today. The following are some ways individuals and communities embody these ideals.

Acts of courage and selflessness – In times of crisis, such as recent events in Israel, ordinary people have shown extraordinary bravery. For example, Youssef Ziadna, a Bedouin bus driver, risked his life to save dozens of people during an attack, refusing to turn back even when faced with danger. His selfless actions reflect the Maccabean spirit of risking everything to save others and uphold what is right.

Standing up for loved ones – Rimon Kirsht, who was held captive, demonstrated unwavering dedication to her spouse, refusing to leave captivity unless her husband could also be freed. Her courage and loyalty are modern echoes of the commitment celebrated during Chanukah.

Community resilience and solidarity – Chanukah ceremonies, such as the lighting of the world’s largest menorah in solidarity with families of hostages, have become powerful symbols of hope and unity. These events bring communities together, reminding everyone to stand proud in their identity and to support one another in times of adversity.

Spreading light through kindness – Many people embody the ideals of Chanukah through everyday acts of kindness — helping neighbors, volunteering, and supporting those in need.

These small acts, like giving someone a ride, listening with compassion, or making space for others, are ways of bringing light into the world and dispelling darkness.

Publicizing the miracle – The tradition of lighting the menorah in public spaces, such as parks and city squares, is a way communities share the message of hope and resilience with the wider world. These public displays encourage others to add light and positivity to their own lives.

Supporting each other in challenging times – Organizations and individuals who reach out to those isolated or struggling — especially during difficult periods like the pandemic — embody the Chanukah value of bringing hope and connection. For example, social welfare groups have helped seniors stay connected and supported, ensuring no one is left alone in the darkness.

RABBINICAL REFLECTIONS

December 2025

Fed Star

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A Matter of Perspective Rabbi Mark Wm. Gross Jewish Congregation of Marco Island

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think it’s kind of exciting that Chanukah is approaching. Consider that, across the vast spectrum of Jewish ritual practice — from those of our people who do as little as necessary to those who do as much as possible, and everyone in between — kindling the lights of the Chanukah menorah is the one hands-on observance that unites pretty much all Jews.

There is something compelling about these little flames, growing in number every night to dispel winter’s darkness. There is something poignant about their recalling how, almost 2,200 years ago, our forebears dispelled the darkness of idol worship by

…this principle of pirsum ha-neis … underlies the great debate … about which way the lights in the Chanukah candle should be lit. rekindling on God’s Altar the undying flame of faith. There is something that speaks to our heart of hearts, as only one small part of a vast and diverse and manifold human society, about the uniqueness — and the value and the importance — of being “Us.” That self-assertion finds its purest Chanukah expression in the ritual consideration the rabbis call pirsum ha-neis. The ruling by the sages of the Mishnah is that we are to put our lit Chanukah lamp in the public thoroughfare outside our front door, or upstairs in a window facing the street, “to publish news of the miracle.” So central to the Chanukah experience is this principle of pirsum ha-neis that in ensuing centuries our daughter religion and sister faith would adopt the corresponding practice of putting the decorated Christmas tree in the front window,

and in modernity festooning the whole house with electric lights.

It is this principle of pirsum ha-neis that underlies the great (and seemingly tedious and hair-splitting) debate between the rabbis about which way the lights in the Chanukah candle should be lit: first one on the right, and henceforth one more every night moving to the left, or starting on the left and progressing to the right? The schools of thought following the complementary (and often competing) co-Presidents of the Sanhedrin characteristically staked out opposing viewpoints on this question, because the implications of that distinction are important The School of Shammai endorsed lighting left-to-right. Now since Hebrew goes from right-to-left, putting the candles in from the left means they are being viewed “the right way” only by those outside our home. Intentionally positioning our candles backward, from our own viewpoint, becomes a matter of perspective for those outside. The implicit message in doing that is that our Chanukah lamp-lighting functions primarily as a public-relations gesture, without demonstrable importance to those of us inside the house. We would be “proclaiming the miracle” to the rest of the world, while not necessarily celebrating it ourselves.

It is for that reason that tradition sides with the opinion of the School of Hillel, with the first candle going into our Chanukah lamp on December 14 on the right-hand side. The message in doing that is that, even if we are proud to bear witness to the world of the miracle of Chanukah, we are prouder still to be part of a fabulously ancient people for whom this one holiday is but a single component of our vast and rich heritage.

NO ONE SAVES MORE LIVES IN ISRAEL IN TIMES OF CRISIS.

As I noted going in, the lights of Chanukah draw the whole Jewish world together. May our judicious placement and lighting of these holiday nights (and our rejoicing in having eight nights to make the most of the occasion!) be a commonality drawing us ever closer together as “Us,” privileged to kindle sacred flames within our window, to cheer and inspire and warm the rest of the world beyond.

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There are many ways to support Israel and its people, but this Chanukah, no gift is more transformative than one to Magen David Adom, Israel’s emergency services system. Your support of MDA isn’t just changing lives — it’s literally saving them — providing critical care and hospital transport for everyone from victims of heart attacks to rocket attacks, and every emergency in between.

Donate today at MagenDavidAdom.org or call 866.632.2763.

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RABBINICAL REFLECTIONS

December 2025

Fed Star

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Friday, January 16, 2026 * 1 to 3 pm

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hanukah is a season of numbers — counting down the minutes until it’s time to light the candles each night, making sure we have the right number in the chanukiyah, and checking the box to see if enough candles remain for the nights still ahead. But numbers carry meaning far beyond their simple count — in this holiday and throughout our lives.

watch, and a wallet. Opening it for the first time, Billy saw his father’s license, some money, and family photos. He closed the wallet — and never opened it again.

We’re all familiar with the Capital One slogan, “What’s in your wallet?” It’s catchy but ultimately misses the point. What truly matters isn’t what’s in our wallets — it’s who and what fills our lives. For Billy Crystal, the tributes to his father from friends and musicians meant far more than those possessions. Jack Crystal, who owned a music store, had inspired countless jazz greats.

His real legacy wasn’t what he left behind materially, but the 700 Sundays of love, time, and influence he shared with his son. That’s the blessing that counts most.

Eight nights of light remind us of a miracle that lasted longer than the very days of Creation. Six hunNone of us knows our dred thirteen brings number — how many to mind the mitzvot days or weeks or holthat guide our lives. … as you count idays we’ll have. So, E i g h te e n i s c h a i , the candles each this Chanukah, as symbolizing life itself. you count the candles Baseball fans might night, take each night, take time revere 61 and 42 — time also to also to count your Roger Maris’ home blessings. Focus less count your run record and Jackie on what others have, Robinson’s immortal blessings. and more on the light jersey number. Othalready present in ers recall when 55 your own life. Whatever material was the national speed limit (which comfort we may possess, the true feels awfully slow now). And, of worth of our lives lies not in our course, 1948 — the year of Israel’s wallets or bank accounts, but in the rebirth as a modern nation. moments and memories we share with those we love.

Then there’s 700. That one may not sound as familiar, but for actor This season, let’s make time to Billy Crystal, it holds deep meaning. appreciate the people who bless In his autobiographical one-man us with their presence — family, play, 700 Sundays, Crystal reflects friends, and community. Around that he shared about 700 Sundays the dinner table or over the phone, with his father, Jack, before Jack’s share a moment of gratitude. Be sudden passing when Billy was just thankful for another week, another fifteen. light, another day together.

He recounts the day a policeman And may the light we kindle this arrived at their home with a large Chanukah bring warmth, hope, manila envelope — the few posand strength for the year ahead. sessions his father had with him: L’Shalom & Happy Chanukah. a baseball cap, a wedding ring, a

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SYNAGOGOUE NEWS

December 2025

Fed Star

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TEMPLE SHALOM www.naplestemple.org / 239-455-3030

Thanking our Professionals Deborah Rosen Fidel, JD, MAJPS Executive Director

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very December, typically during the holiday of Chanukah, the Temple holds a staff holiday party and luncheon, complete with latkes and sufganiyot, to thank our team for their dedicated service. I have deep gratitude and awe for our staff and their herculean efforts over the past few years as we have navigated unprecedented times together while serving our congregation.

Every year, I think to myself, “This year is going to be smooth sailing!”

Well… this will be my eleventh year as a synagogue executive director, and that has never panned out. It’s always something! I have become a master at shifting gears. Thankfully, I am surrounded and supported by an outstanding and nimble staff who also know how to pivot. From addressing new security issues to making abrupt shifts in programming and messaging

after October 7, the Temple Shalom team always meets the moment.

The professionals who work in and for our Jewish community are crucial players at Temple Shalom and at Jewish institutions here and around the country. We may not be the ones showing up at your bedside in the hospital to pray with you or bless you as you celebrate a special lifecycle moment, but we provide critical support for those who do. My entire staff enables our Temple Family to function, meeting human needs, connecting others to Jewish life, and building a cohesive Jewish community.

Chanukah is the perfect time of year to show our appreciation for all they do. At this season when we celebrate light, I’d like to remind you that everyone who works at a synagogue or for the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples sheds light on our community all year long. The next time you encounter one of the hardworking Jewish communal professionals who make our Jewish lives possible, I encourage you to take a moment to thank them. A word of kindness goes a long way!

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SYNAGOGOUE NEWS

December 2025

Fed Star

BETH TIKVAH

WINTER 2026

Elliott Katz Lecture Series Lectures are from 10:00-11:30 a.m.

Attend in person or on Zoom

www.bethtikvahnaples.org | 239-434-1818

Season of Light, Community, Renewal Welcome home

Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

comfort of community, there is something here for everyone.

$25 per lecture or attend all 7 for $140

Shelley Goodman

Fri., Jan. 9 - The 1619 Project, The New York Times Does It Again Fri., Jan. 23 - We Hung Her, Oops Mon., Feb. 2 - American Academia Gets an F Mon., Feb. 9 - Ireland's Dirty Little Secrets Wed., Mar 4 - The Black Legend Lives Fri., Mar. 20 - The Jolly Roger and The Star of David Wed., Mar. 25 - Purple Robes, Rogue Court Scan to Register

Or visit jewishnaples.org/EKWinter26 Presented by

Alta Rockers Sing-A-Long 3.0

SUNDAY, JANUARY 18, 2026

4 PM at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

A

s the golden autumn sun begins to mellow and the Gulf breeze turns crisp, Naples once again welcomes back its cherished snowbirds — friends and family returning from northern homes to embrace the warmth, both literal and spiritual, of our vibrant community.

Their arrival marks more than just a seasonal migration; it’s a homecoming, a rekindling of relationships, and the beginning of a new chapter filled with celebration, learning, and connection.

By the time December has arrived we expect to have cooler weather and the arrival of car transports.

Traffic generally increases, restaurants are busier, and the beloved snowbirds have returned. Many faces we have not seen in several months are back indicating the start of another season.

At Beth Tikvah, the return of our members is met with deep gratitude and heartfelt joy. Each familiar face brings with it stories, memories, and the promise of opportunity for shared experiences. We are more than a congregation — we are a family. Like any family, we rejoice when we are whole again.

We also welcome new members and visitors who are exploring Beth Tikvah for the first time. To them, we extend a warm invitation to join us — not just in worship, but in friendship. Our doors are open, and our hearts are ready to embrace all who seek connection and purpose.

Join us for this sing-a-long performance.

Alta Rockers members are: Founder, Don Belmont (physician) Ken Anchor (psychology professor), Ken Brown (business president) Harry Chertok (educator), Buzz Cohn (physician), Andy Ichel (engineer) Larry Israelite (learning technologist), Sam Miller (business owner) Frank Muller (rabbi), Randy Solomon (trial attorney) Alex Wertheim (social worker)

of Greater Naples

This season, our calendar is brimming with opportunities to gather, grow, and give back. From engaging educational programs to inspiring guest speakers, Shabbat services, and community outreach initiatives, Beth Tikvah is alive with activity. Whether you're seeking spiritual enrichment, intellectual stimulation, or simply the

One of the most anticipated celebrations of the season is Chanukah, the Festival of Lights. As we kindle the menorah each night, we are reminded of the enduring power of hope, resilience, and faith. Chanukah at Beth Tikvah is a time of joy and unity. Our festivities will include a party, candle lighting, and traditional foods like latkes and sufganiyot. It’s a celebration that transcends generations, inviting young and old to share in the light. Everyone is invited to share in the celebration of Chanukah.

Some of the highlights of our expanded program for this year include our lecture series, adult education classes on Jewish history and ethics, and a Cantorial Concert, as well as three visiting Scholars in Residence. Mark your calendars with the following dates: January 16, 17, 18 when Shelly Sanders will be visiting; February 13, 14, 15 when we welcome Rabbi Yossi Saperman; and February 22 when Cantor David Edwards returns to perform a Cantorial Concert. A list of dates and times and a description of all the events can be found via the Beth Tikvah website www.bethtikvahnaples.org, email office@bethtikvah.us, or call 239-434-1818. All events are open to the Greater Naples Community. We look forward to welcoming you at Beth Tikvah.

As we embark on this new season together, there is a palpable sense of renewal in the air. The return of our snowbirds, the glow of Chanukah candles, and the vibrancy of our programs all point to a deeper truth: that every season brings with it the chance to begin again. To rediscover what matters. To reconnect with our values, our traditions, and each other.

Beth Tikvah is more than a synagogue — it is a sanctuary of belonging. As we move forward into this season of light and possibility, we do so with gratitude for the past, excitement for the future, and a deep commitment to the present moment.

Welcome home. Let the season begin.

LET’S GET MUSICAL

Free family friendly program for all, but please register so we can plan accordingly at jfgn.regfox.com/alta-rockers-2026

Changing your address?

Email info@jewishnaples.org

SYNAGOGOUE NEWS

December 2025

Fed Star

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NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION www.naplesjewishcongregation.org / 239-431-3858

The Light Within Us Unites Us Steve McCloskey NJC President

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he synagogue and organization theme for December’s Fed Star is “Light That Unites Us.” The concept of light as a life force for good pervades Judaism.

The Jewish faith is replete with references to light as reflective of G-d, who commands us to bring light into our world to illumine what is positive and good by performing deeds that are positive and good.

One of the first acts of creation was G-d’s exhortation, “Let there be light!”

At the outset, G-d then separated the light from the darkness to create a stark line of demarcation between the forces of light and those of darkness. As Jews, we have ever since been constantly struggling to figure out how to embrace the forces of light and goodness and repudiate those of darkness and evil.

When we enter our temple, we gaze upon the ner tamid , the eternal light that adorns the ark of every synagogue. It is yet another enduring symbol for G-d, as well as a metaphor for doing mitzvot that enables us to spread that light into the world around us. Selfless acts done to help others are the embodiment of light as a life force for good. As so aptly stated by the mystical commentator Sefat Emet, “…performing a mitzvah is like lighting an internal candle.” The question for each of us to ask ourselves is: How do we turn on our inner light, the ner tamid in our own heart?

We can switch on our own inner light by acknowledging that, in all of us, our inner light represents hope over despair, loving kindness over enmity, and a better world over one riven by division and strife. Our inner light

should guide us to embrace what’s right over what’s wrong. We all know the difference. When our universal Jewish values of justice and equity, compassion and humility are under assault by anyone in a position of power or authority, our inner lights often flicker or are dimmed. If the assault is too grave, our inner lights can be extinguished. We all suffer as a consequence.

The test for us as a society generally and as Jews is how to ensure that our inner lights are never extinguished.

We should look for common ground to keep our inner lights aflame — love of family, both personal and congregational, love of country, love of Israel, and an abiding respect for others. This love does not have to be unconditional; it should be earned.

We should recognize that all of us are flawed by our life experiences. In the timeless words of Leonard Cohen, Jew, poet, musician, philosopher, and ordained Buddhist monk, from his classic song Anthem: “There is a crack, a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.”

However, our cracks, that is, our flaws and imperfections, do not obliterate the light; they activate our inner light to show us the path to tikkun olam and beyond. At NJC, we seek to find our inner lights by engaging with the world beyond ourselves, by participating in social action projects that recognize the vulnerabilities of others less fortunate and by doing something about it. We also volunteer at a myriad of organizations whose purpose is to elevate the conditions of those disadvantaged by life’s circumstances.

As we prepare to observe Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, with our respective congregations, families, and friends, let us affirm that there is hardly a greater reward for us than a long life of light-bearing deeds of loving kindness, a purpose that should unite us all.

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Wishes you a

Happy Hanukkah SOLIDARITY WITH ISRAEL COALITION

Our vision is rooted in unity, a world where Jewish communities thrive, where Israel flourishes as a source of inspiration, and acts of kindness echo across generations.

With your generous assistance we are one step closer to making this vision a reality.

SolidarityWithIsraelCoalition.com 15275 Collier Blvd #201 PMB Box 180 Naples, Florida 34119 The national tree of Israel is the olive tree.

It was officially selected as such on January 28, 2021, coiniciding with Tu Bishvat, the Jewish Arbor Day. Solidarity With Israel Coalition is a section 501 (c)(3) charitable organization.

Contributions are deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

ANNUAL NAPLES KLEZMER REVIVAL BAND CONCERT Free Family Friendly Event Tuesday, January 27 6 - 7 p.m.

Collier County South Regional Library 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway To register, visit JFGN.regfox.com/klezbandJan26 or scan code

Presented by The Jewish Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, Friends of the Library & Collier County South Regional Library

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Fed Star

ORGANIZATIONS

December 2025

JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF SWFL

www.jhsswf.org | 833-547-7935

Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida December Essentials Marina Berkovich JHSSWF President

O

n November 18, the Fourth Annual Local Jewish History Film Festival, sponsored by Rosalee and Jerry Bogo, concluded.

Richard Plager, 97-year-old former Chief and star of Chief Plager (Sanibel Island), joined us and delivered poignant remarks. Elena Rosner starred in When Destiny Calls, the second film of that day. Elena, who just turned 101, couldn’t attend in person, but sent a powerful message in support of our Jewish history preservation work. Lehayim to both till 120! Dr. Jerry and Sheila Laboda, the stars of Labodas of Fort Myers, became staunch supporters of the Society even before the film about them was released.

We are already planning our 5th Annual Local Jewish History Film Festival. There are now 27 completed Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers Films. Our heroes and heroines trailblazed this part of Florida germinating local Jewish culture, tradition and respect from the general community. Their stories are full of anecdotal and factual Jewish history, which we are preserving and delivering to the community in an educational entertaining format. Let us know if you have material to contribute.

View some of the films and become a subscriber to the Society’s YouTube channel, https://www.youtube.com/@ jewishhistoricalsocietyofSWFL

Historian Lois Bolin, Ph.D. presents at opening day of the 2025 LJHFF Visit our JHSSWF Community Hanukkah table at Mercato on December 15.

Bring your kids and grandkids to enjoy our popular latke-throwing game and giveaways.

We invite JHSSWF members and supporters to December 18 at 3 p.m. for a unique presentation by longtime JHSSWF friend Norm Winski, titled Soviet Jewry Movement and The Moon. This is a Zoom Only free attendance event, and you must register at https://www.jhsswf.org/ upcoming-events/ to get a Zoom link.

The life of Norm’s Uncle Abe Silverstein is woven like a spy story – top engineer and manager from the days of NASA’s predecessor, NACA, with

NASA to the moon, to freeing the Soviet Jewry. Make sure not to miss it.

We are joined by Jewish-Russian Cultural Alliance, whose many members, including yours truly, literally owe him our freedom.

Florida Jewish History Month (FJHM) was established by Governor Jeb Bush in 2003. Marcia Jo Zerivitz initiated the legislation for both FJHM every January and a Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) every May, to increase awareness of the contributions by Jews to the state and nation. Marcia Jo gave a powerful presentation to the JHSSWF during her Jews of Florida: Centuries of Stories book tour and gave us permission to record and replay her presentation. Many newcomers relocated here since then, so, we will be bringing to you the recorded presentation on January 4, 2026 at SWFL Jewish History Fundraiser luncheon. Please see our ad for details.

One 2026 fundraiser ticket covers admission to two events. Event 2, Thursday, January 22, at 2 p.m. is a

premiere of the new documentary in our Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers Series – A Jewish Visionary: Jane Schiff. Please keep in mind that this is our major fundraiser, our work depends on your support, and we appreciate you spreading the news of our events and educational programs. Register at https:// www.jhsswf.org/upcoming-events/.

Please accept our profuse apology for the inadvertent misprint of our telephone number in the past issues of this publication. Our correct telephone number is and always was 833347-7935 (833-JHS-SWFL). Kindly direct all correspondence, including contributions and renewals there.

Direct all correspondence to The Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida, PO Box 10075, Naples, FL 34101; 833-347-7935 (833-JHSSWFL); www.jhsswf.org.

Section 501 (c) 3 charitable organization, contributions are deductible to the full extent allowed by law.

AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY RUBRIC Essential December facts every Floridian should know December 25, 1821 – Florida officially became a U.S. territory after being ceded by Spain.

December 25, 1845 – Florida was admitted to the Union as the 27th state.

December 25, 1939 – The Tamiami Trail, a major highway, connected Tampa and Miami.

December 22, 1990 – The first commercial flight departed from SWFL Int’l Airport in Fort Myers.

Jerry and Rosalee Bogo with Jane Schiff at the LJHFF opening

ORGANIZATIONS

December 2025

COLLIER/LEE CHAPTER OF HADASSAH

Fed Star

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www.hadassah.org / CollierLeeHadassah@gmail.com

Happy Chanukah from Hadassah And Upcoming Events Diane Schwartz Co-President Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah

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our generosity helps Hadassah support the healing of Israelis. In a recent interview with The Media Line, Prof. Yoram Weiss, Director General of Hadassah Medical Organization in Jerusalem (HMO), explains that medical professionals are encountering not only the visible wounds of physical injuries but also the invisible “wounds” of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affecting civilians as well as military personnel.

Since October 7, 2023, doctors at Hadassah Hospital Ein Kerem have treated hundreds of victims of Hamas terrorism. Many are

receiving advanced rehabilitation care, including at the new Gandel Rehabilitation Center at Hadassah Hospital Mount Scopus. Still others, including children who survived the October 7 attacks and injuries, are receiving psychological services.

Prof. Weiss advises people to talk openly about PTSD and portray it “as something that can happen to any one of us” and to ask for support. “The more you wait with posttraumatic stress disorder, the more it settles in, and then it’s much more difficult to treat it,” he says.

During these difficult times, we can’t forget the people who have done nothing to bring this situation upon themselves. Hadassah’s work is to provide help to those in need. HMO remains at the forefront in healthcare, promoting women’s and men’s health, and providing at-risk children in Israel a path to a successful future.

Fed Star Publication Policy Fed 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, Fed 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.

Hadassah works, building from generation to generation, a community that recovers from this tragedy, and all of us remain connected to Israel and our sisters, brothers, family, and friends who live there.

and values.

Collier/Lee Hadassah Programs

March 15, 2026 – Collier/Lee’s Fifth Annual Inspiring Women Luncheon, honoring local women whose work and efforts make a difference in our communities.

December 14, 2025 – Donor Recognition Luncheon. Special guest: Carol Ann Schwartz, Hadassah National President. All members are invited.

April 26, 2026 – Women’s Health Symposium: collaborating, informing, empowering all attendees.

Founding members are Collier/Lee Hadassah, Sisterhood of Temple Shalom, Women’s Cultural Alliance, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties.

You are cordially invited to this season’s programs and events by Collier/ Lee Hadassah.

January 8, 2026 – Installation of officers with guest speaker: Dr. Judith Mann, Hadassah Medical Organization Chair.

February 23, 2026 – Spring luncheon meeting: Lunch and Learn. A potluck lunch with a program about how Hadassah advocates for its mission

February 27 & 28, 2026 – Hadassah Shabbat Zachor, Friday, Feb. 27 at Temple Shalom; Saturday Feb. 28 at Beth Tikvah Synagogue.

Wishing everyone a Happy Chanukah. Am Yisrael Chai!

Chanukah: From the Maccabees Until Now

Join CAMERA’s Naples Partnership of Christians and Jews for a meaningful, informative, and fun Chanukah celebration!

Hear a first-hand report from the front lines from IDF Lone Soldier First Sergeant (Res.) Maxwell Long.

December 8, 2025 | 7:00PM

Register: chanukahnaples.eventbrite.com

Nina Iser Cultural Center Jewish Federation of Greater Naples 4720 Pine Ridge Rd, Naples, FL AND YES, there will be sufganiyot and more!

Stay connected. Visit jewishnaples.org

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Fed Star

ORGANIZATIONS

December 2025

Collier/Lee Hadassah Announces Fourth Annual Inspiring Women Honorees

By Lee Henson

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o l l i e r/ L e e H a d a s s a h announces and celebrates the 2026 Inspiring Women. Jane Schiff, Sylvia Simko and Rabbi Ariel Boxman will be honored on Sunday, March 15, 2026. Hadassah is proud to present each honoree with the Lynn Wilner Award, which is named in recognition of the chapter’s late past president.

Through its programs, training and work around the globe, Hadassah empowers women to learn and lead in their career, volunteer and community leadership roles. With this emphasis in mind, the Collier/ Lee Chapter of Hadassah has created the Inspiring Women event to recognize the importance, value and impact empowered women make in our communities.

“It’s exciting to recognize Jane Schiff, Sylvia Simko and Rabbi Ariel Boxman not only for their individual accomplishments but also for their greater community impact,” said Chapter CoPresident Nancy Wiadro. “Attendees and supporters of these Inspiring Women will have an opportunity to celebrate their talents, gifts and their passion.”

Jane Schiff

Jane grew up Columbus, Ohio with parents and grandparents who were financially successful and who taught and trained her that giving back, in concrete ways, financially and with time and energy, was essential to being Jewish. While building businesses in the professional beauty industry, tzedakah and Israel were always part of Jane’s DNA. When a family tragedy struck shortly before 9/11, she decided to retire from business and dedicate all of her “work” time to giving back.

Throughout her life Jane served on many committees and boards of various Jewish organizations including President of Temple Emanu-El,

Jane Schiff

Sylvia Simko

Rabbi Ariel Boxman

Dunwoody, GA; the Jewish Council of Public Affair Executive Committee; The American Jewish Committee in Atlanta and the National Board of Governors; The William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum in Atlanta; Women’s American ORT in Columbus, OH and in District 1 in Boston, MA.

Center. She is currently the Immediate Past Chair of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

sits on the Board), FIDF, AIPAC, and CUFI. She has also written her memoirs in a soon-to-be-published book titled Le Dor va Dor.

While living in Atlanta from 1994 to 2013, Jane’s activities in The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta included serving on the Board of Trustees, JCRC Chair, Partnership Chair, and Endowment Distribution Chair. In 1996 Jane won the Gerald G Cohen Community Development Award from the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta as the newcomer to Atlanta who made a significant difference. Jane worked for a few years as a solicitation trainer for Jewish Federation of North America, working with small cities throughout the South.

Moving to Naples in 2013, Jane jumped into Jewish Federation of Greater Naples to serve as Board Chair from 2017 to 2023. During her tenure as Board Chair, she spearheaded the effort to raise the money and build the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION

A Welcoming P lace for Y ou to Belong Our weekly Shabbat services are held at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Naples 239-431-3858 • naplesjewishcongregation.org

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WARM REFORM AFFORDABLE ADULT

Sylvia Simko

Sylvia was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where she spent much of her life. A true multitasker, she ran a thriving business selling dental equipment and supplies.

Syliva was the very first Lion of Judah in Argentina, since its inception in 1972. Alongside her husband, Paul, a Holocaust survivor, she helped establish the Simko Chair in Breast Cancer Research and the Simko Audiovisual Center at Tel Aviv University. Her parents also made a meaningful contribution to the university, donating the Susi Lobstein Cafeteria in memory of their late daughter.

Sylvia served for over eight years as President of Friends of Tel Aviv University in Argentina, where she inspired many local donors to support the university. Thanks to their generosity, several buildings came to life including the Somlarz Auditorium, the Grosskopf Hall, the Gitter-Smolarz Library and the Herceg Main Building.

After moving to the U.S., Sylvia and Paul settled in Fort Myers, Florida.

There, she continued her active role in the Jewish community, serving as President of the local Hadassah chapter until it merged with the Naples branch. Sylvia is a life member of Hadassah as well as a Keeper of the Gate. Paul is an Associate member of Hadassah.

These days, Sylvia keeps busy with her involvement in organizations including the Jewish Federation (where she

Rabbi Ariel Boxman

As the rabbi educator at Temple Shalom in Naples, Florida, Rabbi Ariel Boxman directs and develops all educational programs for the congregation. As one of the spiritual leaders of the congregation, she also officiates at lifecycle events and leads Shabbat and Holiday worship services.

Rabbi Boxman grew up in the Caribbean and is the daughter of Rabbi Bradd Boxman, a Reform rabbi in Parkland, Florida.

Rabbi Boxman graduated from American University in Washington, D.C, with a major in International Relations and a minor in Israel Studies. She continued her studies at the Hebrew Union College and was ordained as a rabbi in 2012. Following ordination, she enrolled in a Masters of Jewish Education program and earned her degree as a Jewish Educator. She currently lives in Naples with her husband Asher and their two sons Jacob (8) and Matan (6).

Join us to celebrate our honorees’ accomplishments and to support Hadassah’s new Gandel Rehabilitation Center, Mt. Scopus, Jerusalem.

Please mark your calendar for our celebratory luncheon on March 15, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Naples.

Those who register to attend will receive further information and directions. To receive an invitation, please email: clhChapter@gmail.com and enter Inspiring Women 2026 in the subject line.

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

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY TEMPLE SHALOM OF NAPLES (Reform) 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL 34119 Phone: 455.3030  Fax: 455.4361 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 Rabbi Frank Muller, D.D. Temple Shalom Rabbinic Scholar Joshua Garfield, President Dr. James Cochran, Music Director Shabbat Services: Shabbat Eve - Friday 7:30 p.m.

Shabbat - Saturday 10 a.m.

December 2025 JEWISH CONGREGATION OF MARCO ISLAND (Reform) 991 Winterberry Drive Marco Island, FL 34145 Phone: 642.0800  Fax: 642.1031 Email: manager@marcojcmi.com Website: www.marcojcmi.com Rabbi Mark Gross Hari Jacobsen, Cantorial Soloist Stan Alliker, President

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

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

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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

Steve McCloskey, President

Shabbat Services Friday 7:30 p.m.

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

Rabbi Ammos Chorny Shelley Goodman, 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.

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

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

Youth Education Adult Education Community Events Kosher catering by Chef Herb

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

Fed Star

Money Matters & Legal Smarts

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

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Phone: 263.4205 Website: www.jewishnaples.org Email: info@jewishnaples.org Federation Board Chair: Nathaniel Ritter Federation President/CEO: Nammie Ichilov

American Jewish Committee

Regional Dir: Brian Lipton, 941.365.4955

Building financial confidence and a lasting legacy Join us for practical tips for organizing your financial and legal life.

Light refreshments will be served.

RSVP at https://JFGN.regfox.com/topretirement-investing or Scan Here

JANUARY 21, 2026 10:00 AM Nina Iser Jewish Cultural CenterStephen Saks Campus

American Technion Society

Chapter Dir: Kelley Whiter, 561.395.7206

Baker Senior Center Naples 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 Co-President: Nancy Wiadro collierleehadassah@gmail.com

Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center

Chairperson: Stuart Mest, MD President/CEO: Erin Blankenship, 263.9200

Israel Bonds

Monica DiGiovanni, 727.282.1124

Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida

President: Marina Berkovich, 833-547-7935

Jewish National Fund

Joshua Mellits, 941.462.1330 x865

Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance

Marina Berkovich, JRCA@jewishnaples.org

Fed 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

Hailey Dalby, 845.405.1991

Volume 35, No. 4 • December 2025 • 60 pages USPS Permit No. 521 Publisher and Editor: Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Design and Production: MarketCrank, Inc. 239-591-2709 Advertising: Joy Walker • 941.284.0520 January 2026 Issue Deadlines: Editorial: December 1 • Advertising: December 5 Send news stories to: fedstar@jewishnaples.org

Commander, Harvey Sturm, 261.3270

Men’s Cultural Alliance Naples BBYO

Naples Friends of American Magen David Adom (MDA) SE Reg Dir: Joel Silberman, 954.457.9766

PJ Library

Coordinator: Hailey Dalby 239.263.4205

Women’s Cultural Alliance

Co-Presidents: Debbie Lurie, 414-405-9000 and Darlene Muller, 330-540-8730

Zionist Organization of America President: Jerry Sobel, 914.329.1024

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December 2025

Fed Star

& NT TH E S E PR

EIR 22ND ANN UAL

OF NG I L D KIN GIANT A OF

OBE “GL HT” LIG RAH O MEN

AROUND THE GLOBE With the world famous Chabad of Naples & Preschool of the Arts

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14TH 3:30–6:00 PM · CAMBIER PARK

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with an international flair—music, performances, and tastes inspired by Jewish communities around the world.

• Be dazzled by international-style entertainment celebrating the light of Chanukah everywhere

• Kosher latkahs, sufganiot, hot dogs and tastes of Chanukah around the world for sale

• Exciting rides, zip line, carousel, pirate ship, mega climb wall, bounce houses, & activities for all ages

• Special performance by POTA’s students

• Score Chanukah swag & goodies!

• Live Jewish music

• Collect passport stamps as you journey through Chanukah celebrations from around the globe!

• Cool Chanukah gifts for sale • Grand prize raffle tickets

OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY - FREE ADMISSION SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE | NOMINAL FEES FOR FOOD AND RIDES TO BECOME A SPONSOR, MAKE A DONATION, OR RSVP, PLEASE VISIT CHABADNAPLES.COM/CHANUKAH