Federation Star - February 2023

Tu B’Shevat

Tu B’Shevat is often translated as “The New Year of the Trees.” In Israel, trees are planted and, in ancient times, the fruits that ripened from Tu B’Shevat on, were counted for the following year’s tithes. So, while Tu B’Shevat is a little known or celebrated holiday in the United States, it has significance. And this year, in particular, like a newly planted tree, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples is newly planted and growing.

Our Grand Opening was indeed Grand . The comments about the building have been universally positive. While we are open, conducting business, holding programs and using the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center on a daily basis, it is still a work in progress, and it will take time to work out the kinks. It will take time for everything on backorder to arrive. It will take time for everyone to receive their badges and find all the features and benefits of having such an outrageously fabulous space.

The Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center is an outgrowth of a fertile and growing Jewish community in the Greater Naples area. Fifty years ago, there were few Jews living here and there were many areas where Jews were unwelcomed in clubs and real estate. But times have changed. If a new-to-the-area Jewish family contacts us and asks about the “Jewish area” to buy real estate, we honestly answer that Jews live wherever they want here and are welcome everywhere. Like a tree, the branches have spread far.

Three

Senior

1,

Our new location was chosen for its centrality, based on a 2017 demographic study. It is conveniently about one mile east of I-75 on Pine Ridge Road, easy for Marco Island and Estero alike to access. We listened to the requests of WCA and MCA for space needs and have built

according to what we hope will be the growing needs of those organizations. We see the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center as the trunk and roots of the Jewish tree in Greater Naples.

The fruit of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples tree is the assistance we are able to provide for the needy, education for all ages, and programming for the Jewish community and Greater Naples community. You are the fruit of the tree. Every time you come through the doors of the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, you enhance our community. Every program you attend, every donation you make and every time you make a new friend at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, you help grow our “tree” — our Jewish community.

by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

numerous programs

time.

visit Naples Rabbi Rudin, formally invested as a Papal Knight of St. Gregory, is featured speaker at the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue event in February.

Jane Schiff and Jeffrey Feld

Upcoming Annual Community Campaign events

Marcy Friedland FRD Director

The following events are planned. Please consider joining us.

Wednesday, Feb. 8 –Major Gifts & Lions of Judah reception and dinner

Major donors and the Lions of Judah contribute $5,000+ per year to Federation’s annual community campaign. This annual event is our way of honoring and thanking them.

Thursday, Feb. 9 –TOP Lunch & Learn

TOP is JFGN’s community foundation partner, along with Goldman Sachs. This month, we will have a luncheon featuring a speaker who will discuss a timely topic in reference to planned giving.

Wednesday, Feb. 22 –Women’s Philanthropy Luncheon

All women are invited to our luncheon

with guest speaker Dr. Jaclynn Faff er, president/CEO Baker Senior Center Naples, Inc. Dr. Faffer will discuss how our Hurricane Ian recovery funds were distributed and helped many people in our community.

Sunday, March 12 –Power of Community Celebration Brunch

Our annual event, which celebrates JFGN’s annual community campaign while highlighting several Collier County teachers and students with awards and scholarships

Wednesday, March 29 –

Lions of Judah Tea –at Royal Poinciana

A warm and inviting tea with a guest speaker and time to socialize

Monday, April 10 –Annual Meeting

Election of officers and board members. All are welcome.

Come participate in one or all of JFGN’s events in our new building as we celebrate Jewish Together Builds Our Future.

For more information on these events, contact me at 239-263-4205 or mfriedland@jewishnaples.org.

Expectations and planning ahead!

Eight events and eight authors completed; six events and eight authors to go

By Gayle Dorio, Jewish Book Festival Chair

It’s February and, thus far, we have enjoyed eight events and eight authors. This month, we offer three events and four authors!

I hope you’ve been listening and reading, and enjoying it. We have tried to offer a bit of something for everyone. Did you get a chance to join us for the delightful brunch last month?

This month, we will hear from Marjorie Margolies regarding her book, “And How Are the Children?” We continue with Shaunna Edwards and Alyson Richman, co-authors of “The Thread Collectors.” Then, we finish the month with Lori Banov Kaufmann and her book, “Rebel Daughter.”

Our book festival is almost over. One more month and March will see us wrapping it up. Three events in March, with Diane Smith sharing her daughter, Mallory Smith’s, book, “Salt in My Soul.” Then we’ll have Erica Katz discussing her book, “Fake” and we’ll end with a double author event featuring Jen Maxfield with her book, “More after the Break,” and Ira Rosen and his book, “Ticking Clock.” Each is sure to be worth your time. (Notice how I kept the clock theme going....)

As you know, each article for the Federation Star has an early deadline. Articles must be submitted by the end of December to have an article printed

in the February newsletter. So, planning and thinking ahead is necessary. It makes me think about the adage: Man plans and G-d laughs!

The Jewish Book Festival requires constant planning and thinking ahead. Back in June 2022, our committee read many books, debated pros and cons, and maneuvered right and left to select and organize an interesting assortment of books and authors. Changes had to be made, some at the last minute, testing resiliency and adaptability!

Now we are changing and adapting to a new building!

Yes, the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center is now open and ours! Sometimes change and adaptability are worth it!

It’s exciting to be able to do more and be together in the new building!

We are always at the mercy of technology. Sometimes the internet is our friend;

sometimes it goes in and out, freezes or just behaves inexplicably. Livestreaming should be easy, we think, until it gives us grief. With everything that might go off kilter, isn’t it wonderful that so much does go right?!

I have enjoyed each author and book thus far. One book had a profound influence on me. I read Eleanor Reissa’s book, “The Letters Project.” Her comment that the proper term should be Holocaust fighters , not Holocaust survivors resonated with many, not just me. Survivor, she feels is more a passive term, while fighter shows that each person fought to stay alive, to make a difference in this world and never let us forget. I learned a great deal.

As I write this, the expectation is that each book event has gone well, that technology has been kind and that you have been staying well and attending these events that we have tried so hard to plan and present for your enjoyment and edification.

I have tried my best to call upon my alter ego, Gloriana the Great — the greatest

fortuneteller in all the land — to predict the future and make sure all has gone well. I hope you are like me, anxious to hear the next author and learn more. I know G-d has a great sense of humor; I hope he hasn’t been laughing too much at the JBF!

THIS MONTH’S EVENTS

Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2 p.m.

Marjorie

Margolies

“And How Are the Children?”

Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2 p.m.

Shaunna Edwards & Alyson Richman “The Thread Collectors”

Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2 p.m Lori Banov Kaufmann “Rebel Daughter”

For tickets, visit jewishbookfestival.org.

U S T O M H O M E S N E W C O N S T R U C T I O N H I G H - P E R F O R M A N C E S O L A R H O M E S

Gayle Dorio

Beading for Betterment

A great opportunity for fun and giving

By Carol Hirsch

The Beading for Betterment project provides custom-made special necklaces for children at the Guadalupe Center in Immokalee to give to their mother, grandmother or special woman in their life as a Mother’s Day gift. In addition to the children at the Guadalupe Center, necklaces have been distributed to children who participate in Jewish Federation of Greater Naples’ Shop with a Sheriff event for Christmas.

Whether you are an experienced “beader” or have never made a beaded necklace, please join the group for a fun beading session. All are welcome.

We are offering free sessions twice a month at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural

Center, 4720 Pine Ridge Road. The upcoming session is Monday, Feb. 6, noon to 3 p.m. More sessions will be announced soon.

If you have your own supplies, please bring them. If not, supplies will be provided and only a donation will be requested so more supplies can be purchased. Donations toward the supplies, and/or gift cards to Michael’s or JoAnn’s are always welcome from those attending the sessions or anyone who wants to contribute.

For more information, contact me at chirsch1951@gmail.com. This program is sponsored by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and Temple Shalom.

It’s February!

Reneé Bialek Program Director

There are a few deadlines coming up that you may need to be aware of:

• Graduating high school students can fill out an application for the Patricia J. Adkins Youth Leadership Award.

• For those who are going to sleepaway camp in the summer, Federation and Temple Shalom both offer partial scholarships.

• For teachers and educators, there is a Collier educator grant called “Stand Up For Justice.”

These grants and awards have been advertised for many months and the deadline is fast approaching. You can find out more information at https://www. jewishnaples.org/scholarships-grants.

Please email me to let me know to expect your application.

Jewish Book Festival

The Jewish Book Festival continues on Wednesday, Feb. 1 with author Marjorie Margolies and her book, “And How Are the Children?” This event, sponsored by Senior Housing Solutions and Women’s Cultural Alliance, is both in person and on Zoom.

On Tuesday, Feb. 14, another in-person and Zoom presentation by co-authors Shaunna Edwards and Alyson Richman takes place about their book, “The Thread Collectors.” This event is sponsored by Alison Craig Home Furnishings and Temple Shalom Men’s Club.

On Tuesday, Feb. 28, Lori Banov Kaufman will discuss her book, “Rebel Daughter.” This Zoom presentation is sponsored by Hadassah Collier/ Lee Chapter.

Please visit www.jewishbookfestival. org for more information or to buy individual tickets.

Catholic-Jewish Dialogue event

Please join the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue on Sunday, Feb. 19 at 2:30 p.m. for an author book review of “The People in the Room, Rabbis, Nuns, Pastors, Popes and Presidents” by Rabbi James Rudin. Rabbi Rudin will take us inside the Vatican, Camp David and all over the globe. The book is available on Amazon. The event will be located at Pulte Family Life Center at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples. Please RSVP at cjdialogue@naples.net for this free event.

Save these important dates

• Sunday, March 26 – Join us at Celebrate Israel @ 75. Please become one of our Friends of Celebrate Israel @ 75 At $75, you will be supporting this free community event and your name will be listed in the Federation Star. Go to https://jfgn.regfox.com/friends-celebrateisrael-at-75.

• New date: Monday, April 17: Community-wide Yom HaShoah Program at 7 p.m. Limited seats, so please register for this free program.

Please register for all events at www.jewishnaples.org.

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

We have a variety of groups and committees at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, such as PJ Library, Jewish Families with Young Children, Singles Social Group, Cardozo Legal Society, Catholic-Jewish Dialogue, Israel Advocacy Committee and Jewish Community Relations Council. Please join the group and/or committee that best fits your interests. A taste of each one can be found throughout our website at www.jewishnaples.org.

4720 Pine Ridge Road

Naples, FL 34119

Phone: 239.263.4205 Fax: 239.263.3813 www.jewishnaples.org Email: info@jewishnaples.org

Officers

Board Chair: Jane Schiff

Vice Chairs: Nat Ritter, Marc Saperstein, Beth Wolff

Secretary: Rosalee Bogo

Treasurer: Elliot Lerner

Immediate Past Chair: Alvin Becker

Board of Directors

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

Past Board Chairs

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

Synagogue Representatives

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

Staff

Jeffrey Feld: Federation President & CEO

Reneé Bialek: Program Director

Michelle Cunningham: Receptionist

Alicia Feldman: PJ Library Coordinator

Marcy Friedland: Financial Resource Development Director

Janine Hudak: Admin. Coordinator

Teresa Zimmerman: Finance & Operations Manager

Phil Zoltek: Facility Manager

Federation is the central Jewish community-building organization for Greater Naples, providing a social service network that helps Jewish people locally, in Israel and around the world. As the central fundraising organization for Jewish communal life in our area, strength is drawn from organized committees of dedicated volunteers.

Programs include:

• Annual Campaign & Endowment Fund

• Annual Community Campaign

• Celebrate Israel

• Educational & Cultural Programs

• Israel Advocacy Committee

• Israel Scouts

• Jewish Book Festival

• Jewish Community Relations Council

• Jewish Young Professionals

• Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance

• Men’s Cultural Alliance

• PJ Library

• Publication of the Federation Star, Connections and Community Directory

• Singles Social Group

• Women’s Cultural Alliance

• Women’s Philanthropy

• Youth Activities Committee –sponsoring youth education and scholarships for Jewish Summer Camp and Israel Experience

Published by

Siena Lakes Opens Two New Residence Buildings

Seniors all over the Naples area are asking about Siena Lakes℠, a vibrant senior living community managed by Erickson Senior Living®. Luxury apartment homes, an array of amenities, and on-site medical care— there’s a lot to experience. Now, there’s good news.

Unprecedented demand for more maintenance-free living has prompted the community to enhance its open, airy, and single level apartment homes.

Brand-New Apartment Homes

Conveniently located in North Naples, close to shopping, beaches, and more, Siena Lakes has opened two new residence buildings—West Lake and Palm Vista—welcoming even more Southwest Florida seniors into the distinctive lifestyle. Inventory for the two brand-new buildings is very limited. Few homes remain, so now is the time to consider starting a vibrant senior lifestyle at Siena Lakes.

Spacious floor plans include high-end finishes and screened lanais, all planned for hurricane preparedness. Every structure on campus is held to high-quality construction standards. Plus, community operations are designed to help keep our community safe and active during Florida storms.

Amenities, Friends, and Fun

For amenities galore, residents need not go far from their apartment homes. The Piazza Clubhouse and other points across the community feature numerous restaurants, a medical center, salon, fitness center, outdoor pool, bocce, a dog park, and so much more. Your friendly neighbors will be great companions for lunch, dinner, or any other activity that strikes your interests.

The Housing Market Is Hot!

The Southwest Florida real estate market is red hot, but there’s no telling how long it will last. For many seniors, there is no better time than the present to make the commitment to vibrant senior living.

Don’t be overwhelmed by the moving process. Let us make it easy. At Siena Lakes, future residents are able to take advantage of the Erickson Realty and Moving Services program, which features expert advice on everything from selling your home to downsizing and packing to moving.

Our team makes home visits to future residents to help plan the layout of their new apartment home, and much more. Erickson Realty and Moving Services connects seniors with preferred, local real estate agents who ensure that future residents of Siena Lakes receive the best possible return on their homes.

Announcing

Care at All Levels

Beginning soon, Siena Lakes will construct its continuing care neighborhood. Should your needs ever change, this community will offer higher levels of care to meet your needs.

Want to Know More? Here’s How. If you or a loved one are searching for a vibrant retirement lifestyle, Siena Lakes is the right fit for you. Call 1-800-597-9105 today to request a free brochure and to see the remaining homes for yourself!

New Residence Buildings at Siena Lakes!

It’s a great time to make the move to a vibrant retirement at North Naples’ premier senior living community. The real estate market is red hot and Siena Lakes opened two-brand new residence buildings, featuring:

• Spacious floor plans with high-end finishes

• Hurricane-ready construction designed for community safety

• On-site restaurants, medical center, and fitness center

• Convenient location close to shopping, beaches, and more

Limited homes remain. Call 1-800-597-9105 today to learn more and receive your free brochure.

North Naples SienaLakesNaples.com

By Marcy Friedland, Capital Campaign & Planned Giving Director

Author book review: “The People in the Room, Rabbis, Nuns, Pastors, Popes and Presidents”

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2:30 p.m. Rabbi James Rudin will take us inside the Vatican, Camp David and all over the globe. The book is available on Amazon.

Location: Pulte Family Life Center at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples

“Stolen Summer” movie presentation

Sunday, March 5, 2:30 p.m.

This is a poignant story of two young boys, one Catholic, one Jewish. The Jewish one is dying and the Catholic one believes he needs to convert him so he will go to heaven.

Location: St. William Ministry Center, Seagate Drive, directly across the street from Saks 5th Avenue

For more information, please contact the CJD at cjdialogue@naples.net.

Noted rabbi to visit Naples

By Richard Price, CJD Committee member

On Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, 2:30 p.m. at the Pulte Family Life Center, St. John the Evangelist Church (625 111th Ave. N., Naples), the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue Committee of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and the Diocese of Venice will present Rabbi James Rudin.

Rabbi Rudin will review his highly regarded memoir, “The People in the Room, Rabbis, Nuns, Pastors, Popes, and Presidents” (available on Amazon). He will take us inside the Vatican, Camp David and a plethora of global encounters from his a lifetime of dialog.

Please RSVP to cjdialogue@naples.net so we can plan accordingly.

On Oct. 20, 2022, Rabbi Rudin was formally invested as a Papal Knight of St. Gregory, named by Pope Francis for his work on Catholic/Jewish relations. He is one of the few non-Catholics to receive this honor. Founded in 1831, only eight other Jews have been so honored in recognition of outstanding services or unusual contribution to the Catholic Church.

According to Rabbi Eric Greenberg, director of United Nations relations for the Simon Wiesenthal Center, “This knighthood comes at a critical time of growing antisemitism and clearly demonstrates the evolving positive relations between Catholics and Jews. Rabbi Rudin

well deserves this historic, international honor.”

Rabbi Rudin is currently the American Jewish Committee (AJC) senior religious advisor and a founder and distinguished professor of the religion and Judaica program at St. Leo University, Tampa, Florida. He lives in Ft. Myers.

Th e author of 17 books, one of which was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize, he co-founded the National Religious Task Force on Soviet Jewry and Black Jewish Relations. He also served as a pulpit rabbi for two congregations and as a U.S. Air Force chaplain. He met with Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI 11 times and was guest of honor at the 1994 Vatican event commemorating the Holocaust.

The mission of the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue committee is dedicated to building community and strengthening Catholic/Jewish reconciliation through interaction and interreligious learning that transcends tolerance to build meaningful understanding of the “other.” The committee creates and presents programs for teens and adults in both Catholic and Jewish venues, challenging members of both communities to address and confront religious and ethnic prejudice. These programs are open to all.

CJD is looking for new committee members to attend monthly meetings.

Come, let’s rejoice and celebrate Israel

By Jeff Margolis, IAC member

This spring, the state of Israel will celebrate its 75th anniversary, commemorating the three-quarters of a century that Israel has existed as an independent nation. In commemoration of such a momentous occasion, the Israel Advocacy Committee of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples proudly invites the community to its Celebrate Israel @ 75 event on Sunday, March 26, 11:30 a.m. at the new Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. There will be many informational booths to peruse. For children, there will be a bounce house and a rock-climbing wall. Join in Israel dancing for all. There will be food trucks and the first 500 guests will receive a free Kona Ice.

Become a friend of this special event

Celebrate Israel @ 75 is seeking donations of $75 towards the community celebration on March 26, 2023. Blessed with a matching gift by an anonymous donor, your support of this event immediately doubles in value. Be among those who are helping put on a very fi tting and memorable event. To become a friend, go to: https://jfgn.regfox.com/friendscelebrate-israel-at-75.

Sponsorship opportunities also available

Many thanks to the Celebrate Israel @

75 Committee chairs, Tracy and Michael Askotzky, and Cathy and Phil Zacks, for planning this much-anticipated event.

Another great program

The Israel Tennis Exhibition Center (ITEC) program returns to Naples on Thursday, March 16. The program will be held at the Vineyards Country Club from 4 to 6 p.m. The ITEC is the largest social service agency for children in Israel, having served over half-a-million youngsters and their families since the first center opened in Ramat Hasharon in 1976. There are currently 16 centers across the nation of Israel, primarily in underprivileged communities. These centers use tennis as an avenue to promote the social, physical and psychological well-being of students.

Another goal of the Israel Tennis Center programs is the development of coaches, and building and maintaining courts and facilities at the highest levels. For more information, please contact Myra Benedikt at myra.benedikt@ gmail.com.

For more information about the Israel Advocacy Committee or to make suggestions for future events and activities, please contact committee co-chairs Harvey Cohen at hwcohen@gmail.com or Myra Benedikt at myra.benedikt@ gmail.com.

Amanda M. Dorio

Estate Planning and Trust Administration Member, Board of Directors, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

Rabbi Rudin

Celebrate Israel @ 75

By Harvey Cohen, IAC Co Chair

Please join the community on Sunday, March 26, 11:30 a.m. at the Nina Iser Jewish Community Center as we celebrate Israel, our Jewish homeland. Preregistration is requested; the celebration is free. Register at https:// jfgn.regfox.com/celebrate-israel-at-75, so we know how many to plan for. Symbols of the 75th anniversary year run from diamond to platinum to gold. All three are fitting and all three touch the significance in our lifetime. Diamonds are forever as the saying goes. Platinum is a very precious metal. And gold brings

to our lips the heartfelt song, “Jerusalem of Gold.” Truly, we cannot overstate the significance of the 75th birthday/anniversary celebration. And you are invited to be a part!

And, while the actual Yom Hazmaut date is the following month, the Naples community is at its largest in February and March, so it’s fitting we gather then to celebrate at our new home.

Chaired by Tracy and Michael Askotsky, and Cathy and Phil Zacks, a special time is guaranteed for the whole family with activities for children and

adults. We recognize Israel still faces many challenges, so Celebrate Israel @ 75 is a time for happiness, fanfare and inspiration. Jane Schiff, chair of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, shares her birthday with the birth of the state of Israel and has graciously agreed to be our honorary chair.

The excellent Israeli Dance troop from Fort Myers will highlight our gathering, both in performance and teaching us to gently get up and dance. Yes, wear your dancing shoes. The children from Temple Shalom are preparing their songs and, as the future, inspire us through their sweet voices.

A Shuk of organizations and merchandise will be available. The first 500 people to attend will receive a free Kona

Ice treat from the Kona truck! Delicious Israeli-themed foods are planned by the food truck, JewBan, so bring some gelt and your appetite.

To help fund the celebration, we have established a Friends of the 75th Celebration group, asking for donations of $75. There is a matching gift of $7,500 for this event. Please consider becoming a Friend by donation now at https://jfgn.regfox.com/friendscelebrate-israel-at-75.

Sponsored by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and the Israel Advocacy Committee, security is thoughtfully provided. We welcome everyone to the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center for the midday celebration. Register now for this free amazing event!

Friends of Celebrate Israel

Myra

Katie

Richard

Genine

Josh

Paula

Barbara

Monica

Carol

Israel’s 75th anniversary.

still join this esteemed group by going to https:// jfgn.regfox.com/friends-celebrate-israelat-75 to become s friend as well.

Linda

Jane

Shelley

Bob

Cathy

Michael

by Anna Wallace, Truly Nolen

Swarm season, which normally begins around springtime, has already begun here in Southwest Florida and statewide this winter, and unfortunately for homeowners, subterranean termites are already beginning to wreak havoc in our area. In fact, these termites cause billions of dollars of damage annually and are notorious for their destructive habits.

There are a few reasons why we believe swarming season has begun early in 2023. For one, termite swarms are triggered by changes in weather – specifically, humidity. Therefore, when our cool, low humidity winters have spells of warmer, more humid weather, the result is the beginning of termite swarms.

Another reason why we believe swarming season has begun is because when temperatures drop 15-25 degrees cooler for more than a few days before returning to normal, as has happened twice already this winter, people often use their heat to stay warm. When heaters are turned on, they raise a home’s temperatures, and sometimes they even trick subterranean termites into releasing their swarmers!

Because Carpenter Ants are also often swarming in winter, there are three ways to tell their swarmers apart from termite swarmers: 1) Ants have a narrow waist, while termites have a fat waist 2) Ants have elbowed antennae, while termites have straight antennae; and 3) Ants have unequal length wings that are close to the same size as their body, while termites have equal length wings that are close to twice the length of their body.

Subterranean termites are social insects forming large colonies that move together. As the name implies, a subterranean termite’s home is underground, working and winding their way through the soil. It is important for homeowners to be

aware of the differences in behavioral characteristics of subterranean termites versus other types of wood destroying organisms (other creatures can damage the structure). Familiarizing yourself with these traits can prove to be helpful in identifying signs of a possible infestation, as well as knowing what to look out for and where. Why are they so destructive? Because they break down cellulose substances (cellulose is what wood is made of) in the environment, turning them into nutrient rich material. This behavior makes them a Southwest Florida homeowner’s worst nightmare.

There are several ways how subterranean termites can enter a home:

1. Mud Tunnels - Although the common way of entering the home is at ground level, subterranean termites also construct mud tunnels that allow them to reach entry points above the ground. These entry points can include even the smallest cracks and crevices in brick mortar and concrete slabs, (termites only need 1/64th of an inch) allowing them to travel through the interior of the foundational walls. The mud tunnels can be visible on interior and exterior stucco, drywall, brick, rock, adobe, ceilings, and most commonly foundation stem walls.

2. Wood-to-Ground - Structures that allow for wood-to-ground contact make the perfect roadway for termites to enter. Wooden support beams, viga beams, columns and posts, wooden decking/flooring, furniture and steps, window/door frames and more all provide ample opportunities for subterra nean termites to find their way indoors. Additional wooden structures built onto the homes also provide possible entry points as homes built on concrete slabs are closer to the ground.

3. Expansion joints - In-between the concrete slabs of your home and the beginning of the brick and mortar, there are joints that may sometimes expand, allowing for a small enough gap to allow termites to enter. In fact, many expansion joints are often sepa rated by a type of cork material, termites have no problem moving through these.

4. Wall fractures - small fractures in the concrete foundation or brick mortar running throughout the perimeter of your home also provide the ideal entry point for termites to enter, feeding off of the insulation and wooden framing on the interior of those walls.

When diagnosing the level of termite activity in your home, accurate identification of possible entry points from the exterior leading into the interior of your home is critical. Seeking out and determining how termites are entering your home provides a good foundation on which a trained pest control professional can assist you in determining the severity of problem and next steps.

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 Termites and the variety you may have in your home, please visit https://www.trulynolen.com/termite-control/.)

Israel Tennis and Education Centers and Jewish Federation of Greater Naples to host tennis exhibition

By Myra Benedikt, IAC Co-chair

Young tennis players and their coach from Israel will return to the Naples community on March 16 from 4 to 6 p.m. for an inspiring and fun exhibition event at Vineyards Country Club.

The Israel Tennis and Educations Centers (ITEC) is an Israeli nonprofit serving children across the country. In 1976, six visionaries from Israel, the United States and the United Kingdom realized their dream and opened one tennis center in Israel to provide a sense of normalcy for the children of Israel. Their vision was to bring the game of tennis to the masses, regardless of background, religion, ethnicity or physical ability, while providing the foundation to create champions in tennis and, most importantly, in life.

There are now 18 Israel Tennis and Education Centers throughout Israel, which serve Arab, Jewish and Christian children from disadvantaged regions in the country. The children go to their neighborhood tennis centers after school, not only to learn tennis but to learn life skills as well.

For almost fi ve decades, ITEC has been laying the foundation for Israeli children’s future success through a unique mix of tennis, physical training, education, mentorship and social services. More than 7,000 children visit the centers each week and 20,000 are served throughout the year. Since its inception in 1976,

over half-a-million children have found a second home at their local tennis center.

For so many children whose young lives have been marked by unimaginable hardship and adversity, the Israel Tennis & Education Centers is a beacon of hope.

Every year, a team of these kids from ITEC travels to the U.S. with their coach, where they visit communities across the country to exhibit their tennis skills and

talk about how the ITEC program has made a positive impact on their lives.

This year’s ITEC delegation will feature 19-year-old Mika Dagan, a top-ranked female tennis player in Israel and the first Israeli tennis player to receive an official invitation to participate in a ranking tournament in Dubai; Junior Celine Absawi,16, from Haifa, who plays in the “Living Together Program” in Haifa; and hard-hitting Yonatan Barak, 13, who plays in the “High Performance Program” in Ramat Hasharon complete the team.

37 Days at Sea

PJ Library guest review

A book review by Rachel Saks

Ruthie Arons is a 12-year-old girl who boards the M.S. St. Louis in hopes of getting away from the Nazis and moving to the United States with her parents. After a problem on their stop to Cuba, they had to, unfortunately, go back to Europe. Everyone on the ship had to go back to where Hitler was destroying their homes. Ruthie and her best friend, Wolfie, had to go through separation from family,

the Nazis and being aboard a ship for 37 days.

I would encourage kids to read this nonviolent book because it teaches children about being brave, caring about others and doing the right thing. Ruthie was brave when her father had to be on the ship’s committee, when she saw a Nazi spy on board and, finally, she had to be brave when she couldn’t get into Cuba.

I liked this book because it talks about teenagers stuck on a ship trying to get away from the troubles that Hitler and the Nazis were causing. Ruthie and Wolfie ended up being separated when Ruthie went to England and Wolfie went to France.

This book is fun to read with others, and a great courage builder. No matter how young, you can always do the right thing.

Their stories and their tennis game will thrill and inspire you.

This year, as something new on the program, local pros, including Vineyard’s own Sal Proccaci, will join the Israeli players in a double’s exhibition.

Chairing this exhibition and fundraising event are Myra and Bill Benedikt, Katie and Harvey Cohen and Andy Mintz. This event is cosponsored by the Israel Advocacy Committee of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

Registration for this free event is coming soon!

Mika Dagan, from Ra’anana, was a finalist and the first Israeli female to play in Dubai, UAE’s Al Habtoor Tennis Challenge.

Israeli children gather after school for tennis practice.

Rachel Saks, 8th grade student at Community School of Naples

An Introduction to

Here’s your chance to get a taste of what life is like at Moorings Park’s three stunning Naples communities.

Successful aging expert and Vice President, Tom Mann, will introduce you to our three premier communities, explaining the amazing bene ts you’ll receive when you make the move. Learn valuable details on costs, oorplans, healthcare, dining, waiting lists, and an innovative approach to successful aging. He’ll also share the secret to staying out of more higher levels of care.

During this presentation you’ll enjoy a video tour of each of the communities’ clubhouses, along with a video tour of the model residences. All while enjoying our Executive Chef’s top culinary delights.

RSVP today by scanning the QR code, visiting MooringsPark.org/Events, or calling 239-356-0540.

RSVP by February 28th by calling 239-356-0540, visiting MooringsPark.org/Events, or scanning the QR code.

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“Vibrant Naples – Can It Be Sustained?”

JCRC announces Eighth Annual Day of Learning Thursday, March 30

By Joel Pittelman, Day of Learning Chair

For eight years, the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) has sponsored a Day of Learning event to educate, entertain and challenge members of the Jewish community. Topics addressed have ranged from antisemitism to Jewish Supreme Court Justices, with many other topics in between.

As part of its mission, the JCRC seeks to build bridges of communication and understanding with the broader Naples community. Accordingly, this year’s Day of Learning will address a topic that will be of interest to the entire Naples community: “Vibrant Naples — Can It Be Sustained?” All residents of the Greater Naples community are encouraged to participate. The Day of Learning, as well Jewish Federation’s new Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, provide a forum for new ideas

and understandings that will enrich our entire community.

Greater Naples and Collier County are referred to as the Paradise Coast for a reason — it is a wonderful place to live. Early residents may have wanted this area to remain a secret so that it would not change, but the secret is out, and thousands of new residents join our growing community each year. Greater Naples is changing, and the pace of change will likely continue.

Residents will demand the most up-to-date, high-quality facilities and services we have all come to expect. But will community leaders be prepared to meet our expectations? Attendees at this year’s Day of Learning will get some answers.

The lineup of speakers for the Day of Learning are all specialists in their chosen

fields — fields that contribute to our quality of life here in Greater Naples: health care, arts and entertainment, facilities and services required for our growing and diverse population, and business development and commercial growth. What our speakers, their colleagues and their competitors do in the future will affect the quality of each of our lives.

Each speaker will share their thoughts and answer your questions on what needs to be done to keep our rapidly expanding community at the forefront in each of their fields of expertise.

Amy Patterson, Collier County manager and James French, the County’s director of growth management, will provide their thoughts on the County’s planned land use and economic development; Michael Dalby, president and CEO of the Greater Naples

Chamber of Commerce, will speak to the future of Naples’ business development and commercial growth; Elysia Dawn, executive director of the United Arts Council of Collier County, will offer her vision of the future of arts and entertainment; and Dr. Rebecca Smith, president of the Collier County Medical Society, will speak about the evolving needs of health care facilities and services required for our growing and diverse population.

Th e Day of Learning will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center located at 4720 Pine Ridge Road in Naples. There is no charge to attend, but you must pre-register for the event. Please visit the Federation’s website, www.jewishnaples.org, to register.

And the annual Human Needs Award goes to…

By Liz Jaffe, Chair of Human Needs Committee

What is the mission of the Human Needs Award? Several years ago, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples’ Board and the Jewish Community Relations Council established a “Fund for Human Needs” to recognize organizations for their generous spirit and service to the entire community. It was another way for Jews in Greater Naples, as represented by their Federation, to practice tikkun olam, “bettering the world.”

This award allows the JCRC and JFGN to acknowledge the positive contributions of several select nonprofit organizations in our community. Annually, monetary awards are given to two small nonprofit agencies. The objective is to identify agencies who serve a severely means-limited, disadvantaged population.

The following two recipients will be awarded these monetary gifts at the Power of Community Celebration on Sunday, March 12.

Café of Life

The Café of Life mission statement

describes itself as a faith-based organization believing in the teaching of all great religions that one must love and assist one’s neighbor in time of need. Its mission is to provide basic human needs to the poor and hungry people of the Bonita Springs area in a manner that preserves the dignity of the client in a respectful environment and to enrich and empower people to be all that they can be.

The organization provides a hot nutritious meal Monday through Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. The meals are cooked by volunteers at their homes. It also provides supplemental groceries to prepare meals at home, gently used clothing, diapers, toiletries, blankets, other miscellaneous personal goods and, at times, furniture and appliances.

The Café has more than 500 volunteers who contribute thousands of hours. They cook, serve meals, pick up groceries, tend the clothing area and pantry tables, and much more.

Jeff Nichols, the executive director of Café of Life, is a part-time employee, along with about six other part-time

employees. They only have one full-time employee. The fact that they can accomplish so much with such a limited staff demonstrates the enormous amount of work done by their volunteers.

We are very proud to recognize the Café of Life for one of the Human Needs awards.

SAGE House Naples

Marianne Lambertson, founder, SAGE House Naples, Inc. says its mission is to provide shelter, services and unconditional love and support to all LGBTQ+ adolescents and young adults. LGBTQ+ youth experience a 120% higher risk of homelessness than their peers. Once on the street, they face additional hardships because of stigma and discrimination.

In the United States, while LGBTQ+ youth make up only 10% of the total youth population, a report from William’s Institute estimates LGBTQ+ youth comprise an astounding 40% of all young people experiencing homelessness in the country. Southwest Florida is no exception. In Collier County alone, it is

MCA Sweetheart Dinner Dance

By Marty Levine, Dance Committee Member

MCA has announced the date of Feb. 25, 2023 for its Seventh Annual Sweetheart Dinner Dance. It will be held at the luxurious Vineyards Country Club. Country club casual attire is recommended and there will be complementary valet parking.

This popular event has already drawn a huge amount of interest from MCA members.

The evening will begin at 6 p.m. with a sumptuous cocktail reception featuring bountiful passed hors d’oeuvres and a

cash bar with two locations for easy access to drinks.

A gourmet dinner will follow this cocktail hour that includes an entrée choice of a center-cut sirloin steak, mustard-glazed salmon or a vegetable option. A fabulous dessert will follow.

The Dazzling Del Rays, a phenomenal band, will provide music for both listening and dancing during the evening.

This dinner dance will provide an ideal opportunity for friends to enjoy a festive evening together.

estimated that there are over 130 homeless LGBTQ+ teens each year. Once homeless, young LGBTQ+ people are at high risk of facing violence, discrimination, sexual exploitation and substance abuse.

The goal of SAGE House is to provide a residence (including meals, clothing and anything else they need), mental health and support services (individual, family and group counseling for those at the residence as well as anyone else seeking services), holistic programs (animal, art and music therapy), social programs, leadership and community roles and, eventually, an education fund.

The organization will provide a residence for potentially homeless youth and a safe place for individual, family and group counseling. Th ere will be events and community-wide education as well.

We are pleased to present a Human Needs Award to SAGE House.

We hope you will all join us on March 12 as we congratulate Café of Life and SAGE House.

Celebrating

By Marc Rosenweig, MCA member

Many MCA members remember Norman Goldman with emotion and admiration.

“Two summers ago, we lost him,” said MCA Board member Max Weisberg. “He was a gentle giant and a mensch.”

Weisberg met Goldman when Goldman was teaching new MCA bocce players. “He was terrific teaching them. He gave back in so many ways.”

So, Weisberg recommended the MCA Sportsmanship Award be renamed the Norman Goldman Award for Outstanding Sportsmanship. The vote in favor was unanimous by the MCA board.

The award is presented to MCA members who have inspired friendship, as teachers and advisors, for sporting and athletic events. After a delay due to COVID, two MCA members received the award in December.

Dan Sussman was honored for being “Commissioner” of the MCA pickleball league and Bob Lubin as the “Captain” of kayaking. For both, the honor was a surprise.

“I did not expect that,” said Sussman. “I thought I’d just be asked to stand up. I was really shocked. It’s a wonderful testament to (Norm).”

“I was quite surprised,” said Lubin. “I was honored to receive it. I knew

Norm from bocce and the shooting group.”

And, for Norm Goldman’s widow, Jan, it’s a fitting tribute that keeps her husband’s spirit going strong. “It was quite an honor,” said Jan Goldman. “Norm was such a regular guy ... My husband made friends with everybody and liked everybody ... He wanted everybody to feel comfortable.”

One of Dan Sussman’s goals is to be welcoming to newcomers as they learn pickleball. Currently, 50 players are on the MCA roster, with 16 to 24 competing at most sessions. Matches are scheduled at Veterans Park on Mondays and Thursdays. He sets up competitive matches, books courts and arranges instructional clinics. “There’s a lot of prep work. It’s more than a part-time job,” he adds.

He’s also an avid player, finishing fourth with a teammate in the 75-yearold 3.5 competition at the most recent U.S. Open in Naples. “There’s been a tremendous explosion in the sport,” said

Sussman of the fastest-growing sport in the country.

In the past, he’s enjoyed what he calls the MCA “Triple Threat:” pickleball, kayaking and biking.

His advice for pickleball players? “Don’t back up going after a ball. Turn sideways or let it go. A safe season is a great season.”

Safety is also fi rst for Bob Lubin and the kayaking program. He says newcomers are welcome and should take a lesson or two, including instruction in rescue techniques in case someone falls in the water. Life jackets are a must. The kayak adventures launch Friday mornings through late April.

“I love being on the water,” said Lubin, who’s been with MCA kayaking for eight years. “We lend kayaks to rookies a few times before they purchase one.”

Lubin says the bonus for all his kayaking is comradery. “You get a chance to talk more while paddling. Guys become friendly. It’s a great bonding experience.

I’ve made more friends here than I had in New Jersey.”

Over the years, Lubin has led voyages from about 45 different launch sites around Southwest Florida. Fisheating Creek and Turner River are two favorite trips. There are frequent sightings of manatees, dolphins and gators. The beautiful mangrove tunnels along the Turner River are a top photo site. Lubin fondly remembers Max Weisberg cooking delicious kosher hot dogs with sauerkraut along Fisheating Creek.

Many MCA members participate in multiple groups. For example, Dan Sussman also enjoys the Cigar Group. “It’s cigars, whisky and BS,” he says enthusiastically.

Congratulations and thanks to Dan Sussman and Bob Lubin for their leadership!

For information on MCA pickleball, contact Dan Sussman, boxersuss@ me.com.

For information on MCA kayaking, contact Bob Lubin, rlubin@comcast.net.

President Michael Sobol, Board Member

MCA President Michael Sobol, Board Member Max Weisberg and Jan Goldman (far right) honor Dan Sussman (second from right).

WCA NextGen

The Future of WCA

By Shelly Bell, WCA Board Member and founder of WCA Younger Division

Under twinkling lights, 18 women catch up and get to know one another on the patio of Salsa Brava as they eat authentic Mexican cuisine and sip beverages from colorful glasses. It’s loud at times, requiring everyone to raise her voice to be heard over the dozens of conversations going on around them. Several of the women apologize to diners seated nearby, but the laughter and smiles are infectious. The other diners don’t mind.

Two hours pass in the blink of an eye. Plans are made to meet up for bowling, bingo and art shows with newfound friends. Some women hug before strolling off into night. These member dinners, held monthly during season, are WCA NextGen’s most popular events. Joan Meltzer, the liaison responsible for organizing the dinners, describes the members as “an amazing group of fun and accomplished women.”

WCA NextGen, previously referred to as the Younger Division, is a new division of Women’s Cultural Alliance (WCA), which was formed in the summer of 2021. Geared to younger women, NextGen offers evening and Sunday programming for working women and those who have children at home.

In the 18 months since its creation, the division has taken on a life of its own. Surprisingly, half of NextGen’s membership is comprised of women who live in Southwest Florida only part time. Because events are created and led by members, NextGen expanded its offerings to include daytime programming, with interest groups for activities such as canasta, mahjongg, golf, tennis and pickleball. In addition to monthly member dinners, couples’ dinners and crafts group, more evening groups are being added this winter, including a second mahjongg interest group and a “sip and read” book club. We’re also offering “girls’ night out” events.

While we offer a variety of activities, it’s the newfound friendships that keep

our members returning week after week. With a few exceptions, most members don’t know anyone else when they join. It’s difficult for those who live in Southwest Florida part time to meet other Jewish women, especially for those who don’t belong to a local synagogue. WCA NextGen has changed that.

Part-time Naples resident, Susan Dorfman-Gallagher, explained that she joined “to find the missing elements that would help make Naples feel like her home. Th e women I have met through WCA have been my missing puzzle pieces! Smart, interesting and fun Jewish women creating beautiful friendships. Because of WCA, I know I belong here!”

Those who live full time in Southwest Florida agree. A couple of our members have lived in Naples for 30 years! Even

the members with an existing network of friends in Florida still enjoy our programs.

Tammy Greenberg Katz credits WCA as a “great way to meet terrific Jewish women in the community.”

As an introvert, I know that making friends can be overwhelming but WCA makes it easy for people like me. Th e

WCA interest group events remind me of the playdates my mom used to organize for me as a kid when all I had to do was show up and have fun. Before creating the WCA Younger Division, I didn’t have many Jewish friends here in Naples. Now, only a year-and-a-half later, “I have found my people.”

But, you don’t have to be new to the community or an introvert to benefit from WCA NextGen. Simply join WCA by going to the WCA website, wcanaples.org. After joining WCA, log into the website, go to “Group Liaisons and Descriptions” (under the “Groups” heading on the top menu bar) and email me, Shelly Bell, to join NextGen and get on our email list. While you are on the website, check out all the other WCA offerings! Members of NextGen are welcome to register to attend any WCA activities.

“The NextGen members are the future of WCA,” said WCA President Patti Boochever. “They will be the next generation of leadership.”

It seems that NextGen members envision that as well. When asked why she joined, Lori Kleiman of Bonita Springs summed it up perfectly, “I joined to find a Jewish community, and what I found was amazing vibrant women who will be lifelong friends.”

Crafts group learns the art of raku at the Center of the Arts in Bonita Springs.

NextGen members have fun at one of the popular monthly member dinners.

Charitable gift annuities

S h ana Tova! can continue

By Ellen Weiss, Executive Director, TOP Jewish Foundation, a department of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

TOP Jewish Foundation (“TOP”) proudly administers a charitable gift annuity (CGA) program for the benefit of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

For many years, charitable gift annuities have been a popular charitable giving option. The popularity is mostly due to the fact that the gift generates a fixed stream of income for the donor (“annuitant/s”) for the remainder of their life/lives and the gift is partially tax-deductible.

Falling into a giving category called “life income gifts,” CGAs are the most popular gift in the category. In terms of the number of existing life income gift agreements or contracts, there are far more CGAs than charitable remainder trusts or pooled income fund participants. The American Council on Gift Annuities (ACGA), the body that regulates CGAs, conducts a regular survey of gift annuity programs and have noted that there are more than 100,000 gift annuity contracts in place as of this writing.

How do CGAs work?

• A donor decides to donate a charitable gift of a minimum of $10,000 to benefit JFGN. The gift is typically cash but can also be another appreciated asset such as securities or real estate.

• There is an immediate – partial – tax deduction based on the life expectancy of the annuitant/s and the anticipated income stream.

• Reduced or eliminated capital gains tax liability for gifts of appreciated assets

• The donor works with TOP, who administers the CGA for the benefit of JFGN.

• TOP creates a simple and easy to understand agreement with the donor.

• The CGA will make payments to one or two donors (“annuitants”) for life according to the American Council on Gift Annuities rate schedule based on age and the number of annuitants.

• CGA assets are pooled together at TOP and invested according to state regulations with TOP’s investment

advisor, Goldman Sachs, with low investment and administration fees.

• CGA payments are guaranteed for life regardless of investment performance.

• Note that donors may establish multiple annuities over time.

• Taxation of all annuity payments is established at the time of the gift.

Why are gift annuities so popular?

For donors, gift annuities are easy to understand, easy to establish, the minimum gift amounts are low, and the payments are guaranteed for the life of the annuitant/s. Also, gift annuity

payment rates, which are based on the ages and number of annuitants, are increasingly attractive for annuitants, as interest rates have increased.

Interestingly, despite the low gift minimums, gift annuities can be appropriate for donors making six- and even seven-figure gifts. All gifts will be subject to the gift acceptance policies of JFGN’s foundation department, TOP Jewish Foundation.

Most importantly, donors can enjoy all the financial and tax benefits of a CGA while supporting the critically important work of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

For more information on CGAs or TOP Jewish Foundation, please contact Ellen Weiss, executive director, at ellen@topjewishfoundation.org or 813-769-4785.

Together, we are ensuring a Jewish

to grow in strength.

To: Judith Finer Freedman

In memory of Estelle Finer

From: Pella & Jack Fingersh

To: Fran Goldman

In memory of Allan Goldman

From: Yana & Je Kleinman

To: Nancy & Hank Greenberg

In honor of your 70th Anniversary

From: Lynn & John Apfelbaum and Family

To: Helene & Elliot Lerner In honor of your 30th Anniversary

From: Joan & Marc Saperstein

To: Annette Pakula In memory of Dr. Jerry Pakula

From: Nancy Kaplan

To: Marc Saperstein & Family In memory of Rose Saperstein

From: Paula & Ronald Filler

Anne Kaufman

Barbara & Gary Lefkowitz

Arlene & Mark Litow

Maraline Rane

Susan & Nat Ritter

Audrey & Leonard Rudolph

Patsy Rush

Leslie & Mel Springman

Beth & Peter Stillmank

Susan & Russ Yale Judy & Mel Zahn

To: Joan & Marc Saperstein In honor of Annie Wolf’s birthday

From: Mona & Jay Brodsky

Dr. Jaclynn Faffer President/ CEO

We have a new name, and we have a new address! Our new name is Baker Senior Center Naples, Inc. and our new address is 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane. After many years of searching for the land, getting zoning approval, raising the funds and designing and building, Baker Senior Center Naples is finally in its new home!

Although our name and address have changed, our commitment to helping the

older adults in our community address life’s challenges remains the same. In fact, our services are strengthened in scale and scope as we now have 30,000 square feet of space to offer numerous programs at one time.

No longer will tai chi bump up against the watercolor class, and the drum circle won’t have to end promptly so the movie can begin. We have an entire wing for dementia respite services and outdoor gardens for the gardening program. And, directly outside the exercise room is the tai chi and yoga lawn, enabling members to exercise outside when the weather is just right.

Remember how crowded lunches were during the Lunch and More program? We can now seat 300 in our large (very large) gathering room, which can become two or three rooms when lunch is not taking place. Located on 13.7 acres, we have large garden areas and will have walking trails through a manicured wooded area.

Of course, we could not have accomplished all this without the support of our Board of Trustees and our community of donors. The senior center has come a long way since it was

first established as a 501(c)(3) in April of 2012.

Thank you for being with us on our journey. We look forward to having you with us as we celebrate our future.

Susan Suarez President & CEO

As you may know, our Museum was inspired by a local student classroom study of the Holocaust. Th e Golden Gate Middle School students saw, even at their young age, the importance of never forgetting the Holocaust and its lessons. Th ese young people learned how the tragic, devastating consequences for millions began with devaluing the victims as human beings. Th is knowledge was reinforced as they heard personal stories of local residents impacted by the Holocaust. Th e students strongly believed it was up to them and future generations to raise awareness of our individual responsibility to stand up to bigotry, hatred and violence.

How sad those students would be to learn of the recent antisemitic incidents in Southwest Florida schools. Because they knew where this might lead, they’d be the fi rst to speak out against targeting and harassing schoolmates for any reason — religion, race, nationality, economic background, etc.

Our Holocaust education resources

As time goes on and hateful incidents increase in society, the need for Holocaust education programs in our schools grows in importance. Our mission — to teach the lessons of the Holocaust to inspire action against bigotry, hatred and violence — honors the legacy and commitment of those Golden Gate Middle School teachers and students to making our world a better place.

The Museum has developed a comprehensive catalog of age-appropriate Holocaust education programs and classroom materials. All are readily available to teachers on our website and through our education department. Since 2001, thousands of teachers and students across Southwest Florida in grades K-12 through college/university have benefi ted from using our Holocaust education resources.

Did you know that Florida mandates teaching about the Holocaust in its public schools? The Museum is a long-time Designated Site of the Florida Department of Education Commissioner’s Task Force on Holocaust Education. We offer

annual teachers’ professional development workshops to assist teachers in meeting the mandate requirements. There is no charge to participate, and all active teachers are invited to attend. The workshops are funded by a generous legacy gift from the Merrill Kuller Educator Series.

The next workshop takes place at the Museum on Saturday, Feb. 25. The theme is “The new ‘Standards for Florida Holocaust Education’ guidelines and how to use them.” The full-day program includes breakfast and lunch. All active Southwest Florida middle school, high school and college/university level teachers are invited to participate. State and school district curriculum coordinators will also be invited to attend. For questions and to RSVP, please contact David Nelson at David@hmcec.org or call 239-263-9200, ext. 205. Feel free to share this information with other teachers who might find it of interest to attend.

February and March programs and events

We invite you to join us at the following programs. Please note advance registration is required. Visit www.hmcec.org for details and to RSVP and purchase tickets. All programs, except the Zoom event, will take place in the Maureen and Arnold Lerner Classroom in the Museum.

Ellaine Rosen Lecture Series “Nazi-Looted Art –Unfinished Business”

Monday, Feb. 6 and Monday, Feb. 13, 2-4 p.m. Suggested minimum donation of $18 is greatly appreciated! Advance registration is required.

“Movies That Matter –The Steve Brazina Memorial Series” Zoom panel discussion of “APART”

Wednesday, Feb. 15 via Zoom, 4-5 p.m. (EST). Th e documentary explores the impact on families from the incarceration of mothers on drug-related charges. You will receive a private link to view the film the week before the Zoom. Tickets are $10.

Stuart Mest, M.D. Lecture Series – “Eugenics, Experiments, Ethics:

Nazi Germany, Japan and the U.S.”

Tuesday, Feb, 28 (Part 1) and Tuesday, March 7 (Part 2), 5-6 p.m., and repeated Thursday, March 23 (Part 1) and Thursday, March 30 (Part 2), 5-6 p.m. Tickets are $40 for the two-part series.

Yiddish Group

Sunday, Feb. 12 and Sunday, March 19, 4-5 p.m. No knowledge of Yiddish necessary. The program will be conducted by Sol Awend, Harriet Bernman and Felicia Anchor. Admission is free.

Triumph 2023 event

Wednesday, March 15

Join us at Arthrex One Conference Center for our annual Triumph fundraising event on Wednesday, March 15. The guest speaker will be Michael J. Abramowitz, president of Freedom House. The nonprofit tracks the global state of political rights and civil liberties and engages with human rights defenders risking their lives as they push back against repressive governments to secure basic rights and freedoms in their countries.

Tickets are $300 and sponsorship packages are available. For more information, please contact me at Susan@hmcec. org or visit www.hmcec.org.

Volunteers needed for in-school reading program

Education volunteer Susan Moricca was a Holocaust education teacher for many years in New Jersey. With her help, the Museum will be involving more volunteers in our 5th-grade education programs, which provide a gentle introduction to the subject of the Holocaust to 5th grade classes. The “Guest Reader” program brings volunteers into the classroom to read from age-appropriate Holocaust-themed books. An example is “Irena Sendler and the Children of the Warsaw Ghetto,” a book we use with 5th graders. If you are interested in participating, please contact Museum Education Specialist David Nelson for more information (David@hmcec.org).

We thank you for your support of our mission and we look forward to seeing you in the Museum and at our events and programs.

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

Stuart Mest

Ellaine Rosen

Michael J. Abramowitz

“It felt like a family”

By Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb

When people have the opportunity to get together with old friends or high school classmates or at a summer camp reunion, they often remark how comfortable and familiar it was to gather again. “It was like being with family,” they often say. But how often are people with others that they barely know yet say “it felt like being with family.” That is exactly what happened at the Annual GenShoah Potluck. There were many familiar faces and just as many new faces at the dinner that night.

Afterwards, there were so many emails with similar content — thank you to the hosts, Yvonne Holtzman and Shirley Besikof, and gratitude for the opportunity to gather with others with whom they felt so comfortable and familiar. One comment said, “We are from all over, yet I felt so many similarities.”

Th ere are so many similarities that children of Holocaust survivors share. It is the understanding of things their parents did or said as they were growing up. It might be how their parents were overprotective. It might be about a certain food or waiting until midnight for the end of the Passover Seder.

In addition to meeting and eating at the potluck, there has traditionally been a book review of interest to 2Gs. The review this year, selected from the Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival, was “By the Grace of the Game” by Dan Grunfeld. Presented by Jan Goldman and Linda Wertheim, the review was followed by many interesting questions and comments.

Zoog Mir in Yiddish continues in February

Th e new Yiddish group, organized by Sol Awend, Felicia Anchor and Harriet Berneman, scheduled its fi rst meeting in January and will meet again Sunday, Feb. 12 and Sunday, March 19. All meetings will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Holocaust Museum in Naples. If you are interested in joining this C’hevre, please contact Sol, author of the Yiddish Corner, at solawend@gmail.com.

“Our Stories” workshop on Sunday, Feb. 12

GenShoah SWFL not only works to connect members to one another and reach out to the community, it has been focusing on local 2Gs writing the stories of their parents. Every person who survived the Holocaust has a unique and important story that should be preserved, and 2Gs can help preserve these precious stories. Th e stories will be posted on the Holocaust Museum website and will prove significant to family members.

A discussion and story writing workshop for 2Gs is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 12, from 1 to 3 p.m. to bring together those members who have written their parents’ story with those who are ready to begin. If you would like to attend, you must register with Shelley at liebro@gmail.com. At that time, you will be given the address and additional information. (Members who want to attend both the Yiddish Group and “Our Stories” will be able to do so).

GenShoah is open to all who are interested in the promotion of Holocaust education and human rights, the preservation of history and memories of the Holocaust, the connection of the Second Generation with one another and support of the Holocaust Museum and Cohen Education Center. To become a member

and to receive the monthly e-newsletter, just send an email to Shelley Lieb to get on the GenShoah SWFL email list. (liebro@gmail.com)

Events of interest

“Café Europa” is coming to the Baker Senior Center in February. This is a

program for Holocaust survivors to get together for socializing, for news, to schmooze, and more. For additional information, contact Anne Chernin, director of the Baker Senior Center Naples, at achernin@naplessenior center.org.

Movies That Matter –Steve Brazina Memorial Film Series

“APART” has now been rescheduled for Feb. 15, 2023. For more information, go to hmcec.org/.

Community-wide Yom Hashoah program

The new date for this program is Monday, April 17 at 7 p.m. It will be held at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, Naples. For more information, go to jewishnaples.org.

Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb

Yvonne Holtzman, hostess of GenShoah Potluck, and GenShoah Co-chair Shelley Lieb

Book reviewers Jan Goldman and Linda Wertheim with GenShoah member Betsy Dougatz

Yvonne Holtzman lighting candles for first night of Hanukkah at GenShoah Potluck

Ann and Sam Varsano with Hedy and Jack Abel

The Yiddish corner

By Sol Awend, GenShoah SWFL

In English, it’s February; in Hebrew, it’s Av; and in Yiddish, the month is known as Februar. It’s the shortest month of the year with a host of important dates too numerous to list. One day known to all is Valentine’s Day or, as it’s known in Hebrew, Tu B’Av: The Fifteenth of Av. According to the Jewish calendar, it begins the night of the 14th and is a full moon. Linking the night of a full moon with romance, love and fertility was not uncommon in ancient cultures.

They would choose spouses from among the men who came to dance with them.

Tu B’Av is also celebrated at the end of the Israelites’ 40 years of wandering in the wilderness.

2022-23 TEMPLE SHALOM www.naplestemple.org / 239.455.3030

One thing we Jews are good at, is expounding about love, and listed below are variations of Yiddish expressions.

For full details on these and other events in the Jewish Book Festival, see pages 1A-3A in this issue.

Marjorie Margolies “And How Are the Children?” Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2 p.m. • in person and virtual

Sponsored by Senior Housing Solutions & Women’s Cultural Alliance Shaunna Edwards & Alyson Richman “Thread Collectors” Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2 p.m. • in person and virtual

Tu B’Av is an ancient Jewish holiday when women would go out to the fields in borrowed white clothing and dance.

Another sweet holiday falling on this day? National CreamFilled Chocolates Day … go say that in Yiddish.

Haretz

Temple Shalom events open to the community

By Jeanette Fischer, Temple Shalom Director of Communications

T

Sponsored by Temple Shalom Men’s Club and Allison Craig Home Furnishings

2022-23 Jewish Book Festival 16 Authors • 14 Events Lori Banov Kaufmann “Rebel Daughter” Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2 p.m. • virtual

he following Temple Shalom events are open to everyone.

Award-winning author Maggie Anton joins us for a weekend of learning and engagement Friday, Feb. 3 through Sunday, Feb. 5. Anton is an author of historical fiction as well as a Talmud scholar with expertise in Jewish women’s history. Her most famous books include the trilogy, “Rashi’s Daughters” and “Fifty Shades of Talmud.”

These events are free and open to the public. For more information on the Scholar-in-Residence program, visit the Temple Shalom website or contact the Temple Shalom education office at education@naplestemple.org. The Scholar-in-Residence program is generously supported by the Shirley and Henry Kraus Scholar-in-Residence Fund.

Torah Talk

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

Jewish Yoga

Join yoga teacher, Missy Balsam, via Zoom as she guides you through an alllevels gentle yoga stretch session interwoven with Jewish spiritual teachings,

Sponsored by Hadassah Collier/Lee Chapter

Sol Awend JOIN US FOR Three Three To register, please visit www.JewishBookFestival.org.

Scholar-in-Residence weekenddesigned to relieve stress and calm the mind. This class will be practiced lying down and seated on the floor. Open to all; no experience necessary. The cost is $54 for a seven-week session. Mondays at 10:30 a.m. Call the Temple Shalom office to register and receive the Zoom information.

Shabbat ShaPlay

Join Rabbi Boxman and Miss Jane on Saturday, Feb. 11 at 10 a.m. as we sing, dance, play and celebrate Shabbat in the park. All young families are invited to attend. Temple Shalom membership is not required. To register, contact Mary Flores, education administrative assistant, at 239-455-2233 or education@naples temple.org.

Soulful Shabbat

Join us Friday evening, Feb. 24 at 7:30 p.m. for the very popular Soulful Shabbat, a musical Shabbat service conducted entirely in song and accompanied by The Temple Shalom band. Everyone is invited to attend this uplifting Shabbat evening service.

Beach Shabbat

Join us Friday, Feb. 17 at 5:30 p.m. for a beautiful sunset Shabbat service on the beach. Bring a beach chair! Conditions permitting. Please contact Temple Shalom for location information.

continued on page 21 CHANGING YOUR ADDRESS? Keep the Federation Star coming to your home. Email Jhudak@jewishnaples.org

Meaning: The organ known as the heart. Not to be confused with the Land of Israel, Ha-ah-retz, or “The Land.”

In a sentence: Mah Haretz pletz’t! My heart is bursting.

Leebeh

Pronunciation: LEE-beh Meaning: Love

In a sentence: Deh Leebeh brent. Love is burning. Elvis had the same idea in his song “Hunk of Burning Love.”

Deh Leebeh brent vee ah naaseh shmaateh. Their love is burning like a wet rag. (Sarcastic way of expressing how two people might be carrying on.)

Leeb-shaaf’t

Pronunciation: LEEB-shaaft Meaning: A fling or love affair

In a sentence: Ich ken nisht shloofen; ich ken nisht essen t’zeh leeb deh Leeb-shaaft. I can’t sleep; I can’t eat because of the love affair.

Leebeh shmertzten

Pronunciation: LEEB-eh SHMERTZ-en Meaning: Love pangs, regretful heartache

In a sentence: Zee ot aim geh gayben Leebeh Shmert’zen, deh fah zee ot aim nisht leeb geh haat. She gave him love pangs because she didn’t love him.

Zees vaahrik

Pronunciation: ZEES VAHR-ik Meaning: Sweet things like candy, confection

In a sentence: Er hot zee geh

brenk’t fah sheedeneh ZEES VAHR-ik. He brought her all sorts of sweet candy treats.

Romahntish

Pronunciation: row-MAHN-tish Meaning: Romantic

In a sentence: Zee iz geh vayzen zayeh Romahntish t’zee daim booc’heh. She was quite romantic towards the suitor.

Leebeh tropen

Pronunciation: LEEB eh TROP-en Meaning: Love drops, mints

In a sentence: Ich nem Leebeh Tropen fah mahneh leebeh shmertzen. Es helf’t nisht. I take love drops for my love pangs. It doesn’t help.

Ah bukey fin royzen

Pronunciation: ah booKay fin ROYzin Meaning: A bouquet of roses

In a sentence: Vayeh darf’t ah boukey fin royzen, breng besseh shvartzeh choko-laat! Who needs a bouquet of roses, better to bring dark chocolate!

Ah kish

Pronunciation: ah KISH Meaning: A kiss

In a sentence: K’vetc’h t’zee dee lipp’n un geb mir ah kish! Squeeze your lips and give me a kiss!

Kish mir in yiddish!

Just like it sounds. A podcast of all things Yiddish. Written by yours truly. Hear it on Spotify.

Vibrant Naples — Can It Be Sustained?

JCRC 8TH Annual DAY of LEARNING

Thursday, March 30, 2023 • 1-5 p.m.

Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center • 4720 Pine Ridge Road • Naples

Greater Naples and Collier County are often referred to as the Paradise Coast. With the influx of thousands of new residents, the quality of our lives could change.

w What needs to be done to keep our rapidly expanding community at the forefront?

w What are our community leaders’ thoughts as they prepare for the future?

The speakers for the Day of Learning are all specialists in fields that contribute to our quality of life here in Greater Naples:

w Amy Patterson, County Manager, Collier County

w James French, County Director of Growth Management

w Michael Dalby, President & CEO, Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce

w Rebecca G. Smith, M.D., President, Collier County Medical Society

w Elysia Dawn, Executive Director, United Arts Council of Collier County

All area residents are encouraged to attend. There is NO CHARGE, but you MUST PRE-REGISTER for the event.

Please visit www.jewishnaples.org to register.

As part of its mission, the Jewish Community Relations Council seeks to build bridges of communication and understanding with the broader Naples community. This year’s Day of Learning addresses a topic of interest to the entire Naples community.

www.hadassah.org / 518.330.1559

Hadassah research improves lives

nervous system can improve life for people with multiple sclerosis and for patients with ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. That nervous system condition weakens muscles and impacts physical function. Th ere is no known cause or cure.

and toxicity of drugs as they are adapted to men and to women.

As I put away my Chanukiah for another year, I realize how Hadassah is also a beacon of light, leaving darkness behind and looking forward to a promising future. That future gives us insight into unexplored diseases, inventions creating new technologies, groundbreaking new studies and improved wellness for all humankind.

At our 100th convention in Jerusalem this past November, members were updated on Hadassah research showing that stem cells injected into the central

Hadassah is the first in the world to create male and female stem cells from the same person with exactly the same genetic code. Most of us realize that men have the XY sex chromosome and women have the XX sex chromosome. But two out of every thousand men have Kleinfelter’s syndrome, where men carry an extra X chromosome that occurs because of a random genetic error. Their sex chromosome is XXY. With exactly the same genetic code, research will explain how gender differences affect health and health care. This will also help to compare the efficacy

Gender differences can affect the risk of developing certain diseases: women have a higher risk of developing autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, while men have a higher morbidity with infectious diseases (e.g. COVID-19).

New podcast

Hadassah has a new podcast, “Hadassah on Call,” where new frontiers in medicine are explained by Maayan Hoffman, who gives us the latest breakthroughs in layman’s terms. She breaks down complex medical and scientific concepts to ensure that listeners gain a better understanding so we can act on critical information from our doctors.

Local programs

Our Collier/Lee Hadassah Chapter has

Hadassah’s Inspiring Women luncheon to feature entertainment interlude

By Diane Schwartz

Hadassah’s Second Annual Inspiring Women Luncheon will showcase an artistic interlude by the Grand Piano Series featuring musicians Tabea Debus and Adam Cockerham. The Inspiring Women luncheon will be held on Sunday, Feb. 26 at a local Naples country club.

We are grateful to our presenting sponsor, Vi at Bentley Village. The musical interlude joins the festivities as Hadassah honors outstanding women who make a difference. The Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah created the Inspiring Women event to recognize the importance, value and impact empowered women make in our communities.

The honorees

Hadassah is proud to honor these inspiring

women. The honorees are Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, president/CEO of the Baker Senior Center, Naples; Mia Hyatt, vice president and private banker at JP Morgan, Naples; and Gail Markham, founding partner of Markham, Norton, Mosteller, Wright & Company, P.A.

The entertainment

The Grand Piano Series presents musical artists of the highest caliber and enriches our community through active outreach and student and senior engagement. Hadassah appreciates their support of this event.

Described by the press as a charismatic virtuoso, Tabea Debus is constantly exploring the horizons of music for recorder and has performed widely in Europe, Asia and North and South

America. Highlights include concerts in London and San Francisco, Spoleto Festival USA, Festspiele Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and collaborations with La Serenissima and The English Concert. Tabea has been awarded numerous prizes such as the CAG Innovation Award, the Soloists Prize at the Festspiele Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and 1st prize at the SRP/ Moeck International Solo Recorder Competition.

Early music artist Adam Cockerham specializes in the orbo, lute and baroque guitar. As an accompanist and continuo player, Cockerham has performed with numerous ensembles – Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, Handel and Haydn Society, Trinity Baroque Orchestra, the Mostly Mozart Festival, Spoleto Festival USA, Four Nations Ensemble, ARTEK, the Academy of Sacred Drama and J415. He founded the voice and plucked string duo Jarring Sounds with mezzosoprano Danielle ReutterHarrah. Cockerham’s discography includes numerous recordings.

You are invited to mark your calendar for Feb. 26 at 11 a.m. to help honor Hadassah’s inspiring women. To receive an invitation, contact collierlee hadassah@gmail.com.

been very active. We celebrated the 23rd Annual Recognition for Major Donors and Keepers of the Gate on Dec. 4. Our guest speaker was Naomi Adler, CEO of Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America. She shared many of Hadassah’s accomplishments and expressed gratitude for all your support.

I invite you to share in our upcoming programs. You’ll learn so much, meet wonderful people, and have fun!

Jan. 29 – Installation Luncheon and Fashion Show at Bonita Bay Club

Feb. 26 – Inspiring Women of 2023 at Audubon Country Club

March 3 – Hadassah Shabbat at Temple Shalom

March 4 – Hadassah Shabbat at Beth Tikvah

I look forward to seeing you soon!

Joyce Toub Collier/Lee Hadassah President

Tabea Debus

Adam Cockerham

Start the new month with a new SWFL Jewish Pioneers film

Marina Berkovich JHSSWF President

We are concluding our morethan-a-month-long Florida Jewish history month festivities with a picture that’s worth a thousand words (even if I only get max of 600 in this column!) During the Hanukkah Mercato celebration on Dec. 21, our versatile volunteer leader, Shellie Specter, pitched in to help the adjacent table, JNF, no less, and befriended Josh. They had to strike a pose to show off their Hanukkah wear — sweater, socks, earrings. That’s the way to do it!

We thank our volunteers — Bob Davidson, who took the lovely photo, Leslie Lilien and a recent newcomer, Elena Novik, for helping out at this and other events this season.

We sometimes get too serious and miss out on the funny nuances of life. A case in point is our Sunday, Feb. 5 event at Chabad of Naples. Few people recall that it is located in a former church and even fewer that it is the very first Jewish house of worship located within the city of Naples boundaries.

Mitch Spaiser’s story is covered in mystery. Although no records survived, Mitch was, most likely, the very first Jewish student at Edison College (now Southwestern) Naples campus. The Spaiser family discovered and experienced Naples in the 1960s and 1970s during the presynagogues and pre-Jewish Federation era. It was a challenging time for the few Jewish people here, especially those used to larger, long-established Jewish communities, like New York, where the Spaisers were from. Naples then generally favored

Midwesterners and did not welcome those from the East Coast of USA, its Jewish representatives, particularly. Many residential and social restrictive rules, practices and ordinary inconveniences were put in place and enforced. Lucky for Mitch, he had little or no idea about that, so he stayed in Naples to attend college and, since there were no other options, Edison College was it.

There were very few students and faculty then. Jewish residents who were not afraid to acknowledge their tribe openly were also few. It was, in a way, an era of Naples’ innocence. But a part of that innocence was ignorance and intolerance, as we have heard from other eyewitnesses, both Jewish and non-Jewish. The Spaiser family, though never settling in Naples full time, remained its devoted snowbirds and ultimately influenced generations of local Jews through their startup contribution to find Chabad Naples its permanent home.

Early Jewish experiences of families like that are at the core of our work. I thought of the many who lived here in the darkness as “hidden yidden” the night Chabad Naples’ Rabbi Fishel lit the Hanukkah at Cambier Park. We live

in the light because people like Mitch Spaiser and his family slowly and steadily became an integral part of the Southwest Florida community, becoming our very own SWFL Jewish Pioneers without ever knowing that was their role.

Please help us honor the Spaiser family at Chabad of Naples on Sunday, Feb. 6 at 11 a.m. when we will premiere film No. 18, and help us make more educational documentary films about our local Jewish heroes and continue other work of our mission. Your gracious support is very much appreciated.

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

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

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

Shellie Specter and JNF representative, Josh, show their Hanukkah wear.

Photo by Robert Davidson

2022-23

16 Authors • 14 Events November 1, 2022 through March 22, 2023

Schedule of Events

Check the events you will be attending for easy reference (P= in person; V= virtual):

o Tuesday, Nov. 1 at 1 p.m. (V) – Gioia Diliberto

o Thursday, Nov. 17 at 2 P.M. (V) – Richard Rabinowitz

o Wednesday, Nov. 30 at noon (V) – Daniel Grunfeld

o Monday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. (P/V) – Eleanor Reissa

o Thursday, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. (V) – Jen Spyra

o Wednesday, Jan. 4 at noon (P/V) – Cathy Barrow

o Thursday, Jan. 12 at 2 p.m. (V) – Isabel Vincent

o Friday, Jan. 20 at 10 a.m. (V) – Eileen Kathy Pollack

o Wednesday, Feb. 1 at 2 p.m. (P/V) – Marjorie Margolies

o Tuesday, Feb. 14 at 2 p.m. (P/V) – Shaunna Edwards and Alyson Richman

o Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 2 p.m. (V) – Lori Banov Kaufmann

o Friday, Mar. 3 at 1 p.m. (V) – Mallory Smith with speaker Diane Smith

o Tuesday, Mar. 14 at 2 p.m. (V) – Erica Katz

o Wednesday, Mar. 22 at 2 p.m. (P/V) – Jen Maxfield and Ira Rosen

Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival is Presented by

OF GREATER NAPLES

A special Thank You to our Patrons

PLATINUM

Patti Bloom

Pete Bloom

Sue Bookbinder

Norman Cohn

Suzanne Cohn

Gayle Dorio

Jeremy Freedman

Judith Finer Freedman

Anonymous

Frank Baum

Stacey Baum

Emily Berkowitz

Harriet Berneman

Penni Blaskey

Libbie Bramson Rhonda Brazina

Cipora Brown

Terri David Phyllis Fine Arnan Finkelstein Marlene Finkelstein

Sheryl Affrime

Nancy Armocida

Tracy Askotzky

Doris Baum

Harvey Becker

Joan Becker

Lea Bendes

Carole Berkowitz

Rosalyn Bernstein

Paula Blachman

Jamie Blatter

Beverly Blazar

Sonya Bloom

Rosalee Bogo

Patti Boochever

Tim Broms

Jacki Chizever

Diane Clarke

Dorothy Collens

Ann Cowen

Myra Cristall

Susan Dean

Linda Denning

Sandy Diamond

Marty Dorio

Benjamin Dubin

Geri Feldman

Marilyn Fishbone

Sheila Frank

Nancy Garfinkel

Priscilla Gerber

Molly Getnick

Heidi Gilbert

Susie Goldsmith

Larry Israelite

Pamela Karll

Gail Lanznar

Anna Levin

Leda Lubin

Robin Mintz

Jackie Paulson

Susan Pittelman

SILVER

Louise Forman Spencer Forman

Susan Garelick

Jan Goldman Diane Goldstein

Carole Greene Sherry Greenfield

Lenore Greenstein

Linda Grusin

Ronna Hain

Linda Hamburger Carol Hirsch

Judy Isserlis

Bobbie Katz

Fran Kroll

Debbie Laites

Bernie Lashinsky Dana Lefkowitz

Gayle Levy Marci Margolis Mae Riefberg

Susan Ritter Barbara Ross

Jackie Sallade Z”L Joan Saperstein Susan Schaffer

BRONZE

Dorette Goldberg

Mel Goldfine

Hannah Goodman

Rochelle Goodman

Ellen Gordon

Arlene Griff

Marti Gross

Debbie Grossman

Susan Hager

Lee Henson

Deborah Hermalyn

Janet Herring

Burton Hirsch

Linda Hirsch

Susan Horowitz

Susan Jordan

Susan Koeppel

Toby Kosloff

Gracia Kuller

Barbara Kushnir

Elayna Latsky

Lisa Lauber

Judi Lazan

Lynette Lederman

Linda Lerner

Arlene Levin Hilda Levine

Michelle Levine-Troupp

Harriet Lickhalter

Phyllis Luts

Ida Margolis

Harriet Matz

Stephen McCloskey

Sheila Mesulam

Audrey Meyer

Linda Miller

Lynn Miller

Rochelle Miller

Stuart Miller

Elyse Morande

Karen Moss

Karen Mullins

Sara Newman

Mary O’Haver

Barbara Ostrolenk

Ann Packman

David Packman

Barbara Paganelli

Judi Palay

Karen Pam

Judith C. Picus

Karen Posner

John Reiches

Sue Reiver

Deedee Remenick

Ellen Rodwick

Muriel Rosenfeld

Lila Rosenweig

Lanie Samuels

Sandra Sanfilippo

Shepard Scheinberg

Deborah Schreier

Stephen Schreier

Avra Schwab

Diane Schwartz Harriet Schweitzer

Stuart Price

Estelle Price

Judy Roth

Sam Roth

Jane Schiff

Arlene Shapiro

Donald Shapiro Phyllis Strome

Linda Scheinberg

Iris Shur

Linda Singer

Gail Smith

Linda Smith

Arlene Sobol Elaine Soffer

Joyce Toub Linda Wainick

Ferne Walpert

Leslie Wasserman Leona Wreschner

Judy Zahn

Millie Sernovitz

Linda Shapess

Jane Shaw

Dina Shein

Marilyn Shesko

Mark Shiffman

Anita Siegal

Cathy Silver

Linda Simon

Shellie Specter

Dan Spintman

Judi Spintman

Leslie Springman

Hal Stein

Sharon Stein

Marilyn Storch

June Streisand Denise Sultan Ann Swartz

Shira Swartz

Allison Tucker

Joan Vazakas

Sydelle Weinberger

Suellen Weiner

Ellen Weisberg

Linda Wertheim

Goldie Wetcher

Jack Wiadro

Nancy Wiadro

Barbara Winthrop

Susan Yale Steven Yussen Cathy Zacks

Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival is presented by Jewish Federation©

“Rebel Daughter,” a novel that brings history to life

Review by Carole J Greene

How do you get your history lessons? College lectures? A 700-page tome by a noted historian? Maybe a carefully researched and lovingly created novel? If the last option is the one you would choose, may I recommend “Rebel Daughter” by Lori Banov Kaufmann. Don’t let the fact that it is her debut novel turn you aside. She knows her craft.

From page one, Kaufmann engages her readers and plunks them down in the midst of chaos in first-century CE Jerusalem. As Rome cracks down heavier every day on the religion, culture and lives of the Jews, Esther, an aristocratic young woman, struggles to forge her own life. Her parents intend to betroth her to a much older man, a successful silversmith she can’t imagine herself wedding. So, she rebels. She is much more attracted to Joseph, a man from a good family, now involved with local Jewish rebels. Another man, Tiberius, a Roman who has a clandestine business partnership with Esther’s father, presents another, more troubling possibility. The twists and turns of her personal life reflect the turmoil of the times.

Esther’s three brothers — Yehuda, Shimon and Matti — symbolize the ups and downs of the historical realities. Yehuda lost his wife in childbirth then, days later, the baby. He has little left to

lose. He joins one of the rebel groups actively battling with Romans to protect the Temple. Kaufmann keeps readers in suspense about his survival.

Shimon, a gambler and drinker, is gone more often than he is home, leaving his wife, Miriam, to help with the mundane chores of family life. She is despondent because of her inability to conceive. He promises powerful men something he can’t deliver and is taken prisoner. Shimon eventually is killed. Only after his death does Miriam

discover she is not barren after all. Tragedy mutes the joy. The youngest child of the family, Matti, often accompanies Esther on her daily chores.

Her desire to protect him leads to scary plot points, such as when he gets lost in the market, where anything — all bad — could happen. After Rome wins the war and the Temple is destroyed, Matti and Esther are taken to Rome, where they endure desperate lives as slaves until they are rescued by — I’ll let you discover this by reading the book.

Kaufmann’s story lines depict Jewish life as it was lived in 70 CE. The activities of each member of this

family represent the actual historical figures Kaufmann unearthed in her research. As Esther goes about her daily jobs, we learn about herbs and spices used in healing, about weaving fabric, tending the family’s animals and other tasks of homemaking and about shopping in the clamorous markets. The story poignantly describes an adolescent girl’s coming into puberty, the importance of status when choosing a husband for one’s daughter, and that daughter’s battles with herself to do as her parents wish. The author braids all these tidbits of the times into the historical tumult.

Kaufmann will reveal even more about “Rebel Daughter” when she presents her book at the Jewish Book Festival’s 2 p.m. Zoom event on Tuesday, Feb. 28. For tickets, go to jewishbookfestival.org. Scroll to the date and purchase the right to receive the Zoom link.

Lori Banov Kaufmann

Remembering a versatile musician: André Previn

By Arlene Stolnitz

As you know, this year, I have focused on Jewish musicians who were born in Europe prior to World War II. These are composers, conductors and gifted musical individuals who were lucky enough to emigrate to the U.S. in the late ’30s before the onslaught of the Holocaust. André Previn was one of these people.

I have always admired the piano-playing style of André Previn. As a “so-called” pianist myself, I have often tried to imitate his melodic jazz renditions, to no avail. However, in researching material for this article, I discovered I knew absolutely nothing about him as a composer, conductor and pianist, par excellence. I was completely surprised to learn about his enormous talent and virtuosity as a musician.

Born in Berlin in 1929, his European name was Andreas Ludwig Priwin. He was the youngest of three children born to Charlotte and Jakob (Jack) Priwin. Jakob, his father was a lawyer, judge and music teacher. Early on, it was clear that Andreas was a musical child prodigy, and by the age of 6, he was already enrolled in the prestigious Berlin Conservatory, part of the Berlin University of the Arts. His talent was rewarded by a full scholarship in recognition of his abilities. However, in 1938, Andreas’ father was told that his son was no longer welcome at the conservatory because he was Jewish.

The family subsequently applied for American visas and, while waiting to emigrate, relocated to Paris. During this time, Andreas was enrolled in the Conservatoire de Paris where he continued his music studies. By the end of 1938, the family was able to leave for New York and eventually landed in Los Angeles. Their contact in L.A. was a second cousin who just happened to be a music director for Universal Studios. Andreas soon changed his name to André Previn and, already a master of several European languages, mastered English in a remarkably short time.

And so began a career in music for Previn, spanning eight decades, which included over 600 albums, six Emmy Award nominations and four Oscars. (Music is available on the internet.) We remember well the famous movies he worked on, which included scores for films such as “Gigi” (1959), “Porgy and Bess” (1960),” Irma La Douce” (1964) and “My Fair Lady” (1965), to name a few.

Previn was uniquely talented as a master of classical, jazz, pop and movie music. He also excelled as a conductor, composer and pianist. He began working at MGM while he was still a student in Beverly High School, working on film scores. One of his first scores was music for a “Lassie Come Home” film. In later years, when listening to the music he had created as a young composer in his teens, his comment was that it was the most ‘“inept” score he had ever heard!

Even though the money was good, the work was much too predictable for him and, wanting more of a challenge, he eventually went on to pursue his passion for classical music. He was soon appointed musical director of the Houston Symphony and, later, was named conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra, a position he held until 1979. He also was conductor of the Los Angeles Philharmonic until 1990. Although always controversial, as a conductor, he was a crowd pleaser, in some ways emulating his good friend, Leonard Bernstein.

From the ’40s through the ’60s, he continued his interest in jazz, establishing himself as an accomplished jazz pianist. That is how I remember him best, always thrilling at the versatility of his interpretations of popular show and pop tunes. I recently listened to his version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” which was just as beautiful as the first time I heard it many years ago.

His personal life followed a less smooth trajectory, however. Previn had five marriages, the most famous being to the actor Mia Farrow. In all, he had 10 children, seven of whom were natural born and three who were adopted.

Previn always wanted to be known primarily as a classical musician and complained that critics continually mentioned his Hollywood past even though he had been focusing mainly on classical music and jazz since the ’60s. It puzzled him, and he thought there should be a “statute of limitations” on his Hollywood career.

He died in Manhattan on Feb. 28, 2019, at the age of 89. The world lost a shining light!

Arlene Stolnitz, a retired educator, has been a regular contributor to Federation papers in Southwest Florida. Her interest in all kinds of Judaic music has led to this series of articles.

Arlene Stolnitz

Rudd returns as Ant-Man, coked-up bear, the Downey story

Stars of David

By Nate Bloom, Stars of David Contributing Columnist

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

“Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania”

The fifth film in which Paul Rudd, 53, plays “Ant-Man” (AKA Scott Lang), this new Ant-Man movie opens in theaters on Feb. 17. For “Ant-Man” novices, here’s the essential info: Lang got AntMan “super” powers via a suit created by Hank Pym, the original Ant-Man (he’s played by Michael Douglas, 78). Lang’s companion, Hope Van Dyne, AKA the Wasp (played by Evangeline Lily) is the daughter of Pym and Janet Van Dyne (Michelle Pfeiffer). Hope got her “superpower” wasp suit from her mother.

The plot is way too complex to lay out here. Suffice it to say that the characters described above are “the heart” of the new film.

“Cocaine Bear”

This black comedy-thriller opens in theaters on Feb. 24. It is based on a real story. In 1985, a smuggler pilot dumped a lot of cocaine over a Georgia forest.

Later, a forest bear was found dead. It had eaten about 75 pounds of cocaine. The “real” bear didn’t scare or hurt anyone. In the new film, the bear goes on a murderous rampage.

Alden Ehrenreich, 33, has a costarring role. He was “discovered” (about age 13) when Steven Spielberg watched, at a bat mitzvah, a short comedy film that Ehrenreich made. Since then, his career has been kind of star-crossed. Two “big” films he starred in, which were supposed to be big hits, flopped (“Beautiful Creatures” and “Solo: A Star Wars Story.”)

“Cocaine Bear” was directed by Elizabeth Banks, 48. She is best known as an actor (“Hunger Games” and “SpiderMan,” plus many others). “Bear” is Banks’ third film as a director (“Pitch Perfect 2” and “Charlie’s Angels” were her first two).

Banks married (2003) her (Jewish) husband before a rabbi and they have two sons. In 2013, Banks said that she studied Judaism before marrying, practices Judaism, but didn’t quite formally convert (“all but the mikveh”). Well, there have been no conversion “updates” since 2013. Banks may have taken that ‘dip’ in the last decade.

The Downey story

“Sr.” is a “now-streaming” original Netflix documentary about avant-garde director/

writer Robert Downey, Sr. It was co-directed by Downey, Sr. (19362021) and his son, famous actor Robert Downey, Jr., 57. This isn’t a “by the numbers” biography. It is a very moving portrait of father and son as they make parallel “home movie” biographies of Robert, Sr. The two films have been merged, creating the film we see.

I felt (in a good way) the documentary was a great excuse for father and son to spend a lot of time together, knowing that Robert Sr. was suffering from Parkinson’s and his time was short.

Most people aren’t familiar with Robert Sr.’s films. You learn something about them in the documentary. Long ago, I saw Sr.’s best-known films: “Putney Swope” (1969) and “Greaser’s Palace” (1972). The former pioneered funny “fake ads” that satirized the Madison Avenue variety. A few years later, such fake funny ads became an SNL staple. “Greaser’s Palace” was a wild, sort-of Western that starred the late Allan Arbus. It’s worth viewing. (Robert Jr. had brief roles in both films and clips of him as a child actor are in the documentary).

The Netflix film addresses Robert Sr.’s long-term cocaine addiction and it alludes to Robert Jr.’s near-fatal battle with coke addiction. Robert Sr. candidly says what a mistake drugs were and how much he regrets that his behavior

influenced his son. But there is so much love between this father and son that “blame for addiction” isn’t an issue that divides them.

The big takeaway from the film is the tender love among Downey family members. Robert Sr. clearly loves and enjoys his wife, his son and his charming grandchildren (Robert Jr.’s young children).

Robert Jr.’s wife, talent agent Susan Levin Downey, 49, is seen now and again. Robert Jr. has said that she was critical to his recovery and sobriety. They wed in a Jewish ceremony and Downey Jr. now calls himself “Jewish-Buddhist.” I strongly suspect their children are being raised Jewish.

Robert Sr. was born Robert Ellis. His father was “all Jewish” and his maternal grandmother was Jewish. (Robert Jr. is “3/8” Jewish). In the film, Downey, Sr. explains why he took the “non-Jewish” last name Downey.

Frankly, Robert, Sr. comes off as a funny old Jewish guy. Appropriately, Alan Arkin, 88, and Norman Lear, 100, two funny old Jews, are briefly interviewed about Downey, Sr.

Coincidence: Downey, Jr. (as “Iron Man”) has co-starred with Rudd (as Ant-Man) in three “Avengers” movies — and Downey certainly knows about bad behavior while high on cocaine.

“Parrotheads” can escape to Margaritaville in February with the heartwarming musical featuring Jimmy Buffett songs including “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and “Margaritaville.” The 2018 musical is set in a rundown hotel on a Caribbean island and follows the characters over a three-year time span following the sudden closure of the hotel due to a natural disaster. THE CHARACTERS COUPLE AND UNCOUPLE BEFORE REUNITING AT THE REOPENED HOTEL IN A SWEET AND SATISFYING FINALE.

National Geographic reveals first look of upcoming limited series, “A Small Light”

Washington, D.C. (Dec. 20, 2022) – To commemorate Hanukkah, National Geographic released a firstlook photo from the upcoming limited series, “A Small Light,” premiering this spring on National Geographic and Disney+. Reflecting on the holiday’s themes of resistance, resilience and courage, this first look shows Miep and Jan Gies, the Frank family, the van Pels family and Fritz Pfeffer in a scene from the show in which they gather to celebrate the Jewish Festival of Lights while hidden in the secret annex.

The powerful, eight-episode limited series tells the remarkable story of 20-something secretary Miep Gies (Bel Powley), who didn’t hesitate when her boss Otto Frank (Liev Schreiber) asked her to hide him and his family from the Nazis during World War II. For the next

two years, Miep, her husband Jan (Joe Cole) and several other everyday heroes watched over the eight souls hiding in the secret annex.

It was Miep who found Anne’s diary and preserved it so that she and Otto could later share it with the world. The

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

Also in the photo are Amira Casar, who plays Edith Frank, mother to Margot and Anne; Billie Boullet, who portrays Anne Frank; and Ashley Brooke, who plays Anne’s older sister, Margot Frank.

The remaining cast includes Eleanor Tomlinson as Tess (Miep’s best friend), Andy Nyman as Hermann van Pels, Caroline Catz as Auguste van Pels and Noah Taylor as Dr. Fritz Pfeffer, who all hid in the annex with the Frank family; Sally Messham as Bep Voskuijl, Ian McElhinney as Johannes Kleiman and Nicholas Burns as Victor Kugler, Miep’s coworkers; and Liza Sadovy as Mrs. Stoppelman, Laurie Kynaston as Casmir, and Sebastian Armesto as Max Stoppelman.

“A Small Light” is produced by ABC Signature in partnership with Keshet Studios for National Geographic. Executive producers and writers Joan Rater and Tony Phelan (ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Council of Dads”) serve as showrunners, and DGA award-winner and Emmy®-nominated executive producer Susanna Fogel (“The Flight Attendant,” “Cat Person”) directs multiple episodes, including the pilot. Executive producers are Peter Traugott and Lisa Roos for Keshet Studios, Alon Shtruzman for Keshet International and Avi Nir for Keshet Media Group.

Go to https://docs.google.com/ document/d/1yKe8t3reWfkD0KHJPGylZbEz3u3VBea/edit to learn more about the limited series, “A Small Light.”

Vi at Bentley Village is raising the bar on exceptional senior living with our upcoming redevelopment. Sixty-four new residences and five new floor plans, our grandest ever. Private outdoor spaces. Gorgeous water and golf-course views. A choice of stunning finishes. All that, plus updates to our golf course and a plan for future care. People are already claiming these luxurious homes. Don’t miss the opportunity to claim yours. Call today.

From left: Liev Schreiber as Otto Frank, Ashley Brooke as Margot Frank, Rudi Goodman as Peter van Pels, Billie Boullet as Anne Frank, Amira Casar as Edith Frank, Caroline Catz as Mrs. van Pels, Noah Taylor as Dr. Pfeffer, Joe Cole as Jan Gies, Bel Powley as Miep Gies, and Andy Nyman as Mr. van Pels

Photo credit: National Geographic for Disney/Dusan Martincek

A day of rest

Kreiss’s kvetching korner

By Joel Kreiss

Has this ever happened to you? One day you hear, see or read something that you have heard, seen or read a thousand times before, but it never made a lasting impression before. But, this time, that thing causes an explosion in your brain, as it suddenly “hits.” Images and concepts bombard your brain! Well, me too, and the latest cerebral explosion was caused by something I recently read in a book recommended by my rabbi, Ben Shull, entitled “The Gift of the Jews” by Thomas Cahill.

For years, I have studied Torah, looking for an answer to the questions, “what is Jewish and why be Jewish?” I learned of all the wonderful gifts our little band of dusty nomads gave to humanity.

No longer Israelites but, now, Jews. In preparation to establish a new nation, we made moral and ethical behavior the bedrock of that nation’s foundation. A first for humanity!

As part of worship, shabbat was noted as our most important and, perhaps, our holiest day; then, we moved on. At least I did, until I read the part in Cahill’s book that told of the giving of the Shabbat, a day of rest, which had never been thought of in the ancient world.

An explosion took place in my brain that began to answer some of those basic questions, like what is shabbat and what does it mean to be Jewish? Why is it that we, as a minute percentage of the human population, have contributed so much to its betterment? After all the smoke clears from heated debates answering that question, one stands out for me as

the sole reason for our accomplishments, the creation of a day of rest.

My understanding of living conditions from prehistoric to relatively recent times is that one worked seven days a week, 10 to 12 hours a day. People were owned, ruled or otherwise involved in labor for some powerful leader and, certainly, were not free to live any other existence.

That regimen does not leave much time for creative thinking — or thinking at all. One works, eats (if lucky), sleeps, works again and then dies. Not too exciting and not much time for anything other than surviving another day. Enter “a day of rest” and suddenly one is given some time to “think and wonder and create.” All the other attributes we established, like morality and ethical behavior, take second place when compared to the freeing of the brain to luxuriate in the “what ifs.”

The Talmud is a print example of encouraging our brain to create answers to questions of why we do the things we do. One has to create and justify reasons for an action. We Jews encourage that and, because we do, have moved forward as a people. Our innate creative powers were unleashed. The creation of a day of rest enabled our little band of Israelite nomads to leap light years ahead of other people, and we have maintained that lead to this day.

It’s too bad that, in our environment today, thinking and questioning have become a “threat” to certain groups. Just a thought …

“What’s Wrong with Grandpa?” Explaining Alzheimer’s and dementia to children

Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing old

By Rabbi Barbara Aiello

Just as Diane was about to deal another hand of UNO, her best friend, Laura, raised her hand indicating a pause in their game. “I’ll take this call because it’s Kaylee, my granddaughter,” Laura said. “Give me a moment to say hello.”

“Hi, Sweetie.”

“Pop Pop? Your Grandpa isn’t here right now.”

“Ummm … He went out for a walk.”

“I’ll be sure to have him call you when he gets back.” Laura hung up. “So, let’s get back to our game.”

Diane shook her head “No” and said, “I heard your conversation with your granddaughter. She wanted to talk to her grandpa, who, at this moment, is about 10 steps away in the study. But you said he was out for a walk. Nathan’s here and you didn’t put him on. What’s going on?”

Laura sighed and, when the tears came, she brushed them away with the palm of her hand. Then she owned up. “I know what I said wasn’t true. But Nathan’s not himself. It’s the dementia and it’s getting worse. Sometimes, he flies off the handle and other times he sits and stares. Kaylee loves her Pop Pop. The last time she was here he snapped at her, and she cried. How can I explain dementia to an 8-year-old?”

Laura’s question is a prescient one, especially since Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia are on the rise. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the number of Americans living with these conditions is growing and today there are more than 6 million Americans and their families who are affected, with a whopping 73% of these victims at 75 years of age or older.

This means that there are grandmas and grandpas, bubbys and zaydes, meemaws and pop pops exhibiting the sometimes-bizarre behaviors associated with cognitive decline and, in the process, confusing or even frightening their grandchildren. As Laura lamented, “How can I explain dementia to an 8-year-old?”

Laura is not alone but, gratefully, the Alzheimer Society of Canada (and other Alzheimer and dementia organizations) have come to the rescue.

“Helping Children Understand Dementia,” is a Canadian internet publication and one of several practical, down-to-earth sites that not only offers clear explanations using language young children can understand but also includes a list of things a child can do to help.

From the start, adults are encouraged to internalize an important fact that will make the entire explanation process a positive experience. Based on clinical experience, Lesley Carter, clinical lead at Age UK emphasizes that “Children are often naturally accepting when a loved one has dementia and find it much easier to communicate with them than adults do.”

Thus, an effective first step strategy is to open the lines of communication, using words that younger children will understand. Begin by acknowledging that Pop Pop has an illness called Alzheimer’s disease (or dementia). The illness makes changes in Pop Pop’s brain and that’s why he gets confused, has trouble talking and taking care of himself.”

Laura can share with her granddaughter that scientists don’t know why Pop Pop got Alzheimer’s, but scientists are

trying hard to fi nd a cure. Laura can reassure Kaylee that people can’t catch Alzheimer’s like you catch a cold and, just because Pop Pop has it, doesn’t mean that you or your parents will get it.

Laura can remind Kaylee that, because of Alzheimer’s, Pop Pop may do things that are upsetting. He might forget your name. He might see or hear things that are not there and sometimes he will say the same thing over and over again. When this happens, Pop Pop gets frustrated. He’s not mad at you. He’s mad at himself.

The professionals encourage caregivers to approach young children like Kaylee with honesty. Laura could say that taking care of Pop Pop is a hard job and that Kaylee’s mom and dad help a lot. That’s why sometimes mom and dad get too busy or too tired to play with you. Laura can reassure Kaylee that if she gets angry or sad about this, she should talk to her parents about it. Don’t keep it inside.

Finally, Laura can comfort Kaylee by letting her know that Pop Pop likes to know you care. Hold Pop Pop’s hand or give him a hug so that he feels your love.

Following a frank talk about Alzheimer’s, Laura can encourage Kaylee to relate to Pop Pop in several important ways. Pop Pop and many others like him often respond well to memories from long ago, so looking at old photos often brings a smile or a story.

Together, Laura and Kaylee can make a Memory Box, filled with special things

from Pop Pop’s past. One family gathered Judaica for the memory box so that their grandfather could select an item like a Chanukah menorah or a Kiddush cup and share a memory of a family festival or special event.

Thanks to the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Center in Orlando, professionals there have gathered myriad ideas for families like Laura’s that are effective in helping children cope with the changes brought on by cognitive deterioration. For, as we read in Kohelet, “So if a man lives many years, let him rejoice in them all. But let him remember the days of darkness, for they will be many.”

It can be said that Alzheimer’s disease and the entire dementia spectrum are examples of what Kohelet refers to as “the days of darkness.” For Laura, Nathan and Kaylee, and for all the families challenged by these conditions, there are opportunities as well to interact with our dear ones as we dispel darkness and by creating moments of comfort and joy.

For 10 years, Rabbi Barbara Aiello served the Aviva Campus for Senior Life as resident rabbi. Her most popular columns are now published in her new book, “Aging Jewishly,” available on Amazon books. Rabbi Barbara now lives and works in Italy, where she is rabbi of Italy’s first Reconstructionist synagogue. Rabbi Barbara is the Radio Rabbi, broadcast on Friday evenings at 7 p.m. on WWPR am 1490 or live stream on 1490wwpr.com.

By Bruce B. Rosenblatt, Senior Housing Expert/Owner Senior Housing Solutions

As we start 2023, it’s time to reflect on the past, enjoy the present and plan for the future. What we learned from the past will help us plan for the future.

As an expert in senior housing, I have had the opportunity to help many people with the decision to move to a senior living community. I cannot tell you the number of times I have heard the phrase, “I’m not ready yet,” and, later, after someone moves to a senior community, I hear, “We wished we would have done it sooner… it was the best decision we’ve ever made.”

Planning for senior living is not easy. Thinking your physical and mental health will not be the same as you get older is a hard concept for some. Why should you disrupt your status quo and plan for something that may never happen? Do

Rosenblatt

you ‘roll the dice’ and live in a state of denial and not have a plan at all? Doing nothing is actually doing something; however, the end result may not be what you expected.

Most people achieve success in their lives by developing and executing a plan of action. Researching senior housing is the same.

Being realistic about your changing health and the impact it will have on your spouse and family is an important consideration. Do you want to move in with your kids? Do you want your kids to decide where you live, or would you rather be proactive and decide where you want to live before something happens?

Life in a senior living community has many advantages. The main one being peace of mind for the future. It is important to know you have a plan in

place if something does happen. Having access to dining services, social programs, life-long friendships, transportation and 24/7 medical services in a maintenancefree environment will enhance your life, not limit it.

So, how do you begin the process? First, you should have ‘the talk’ with your spouse and family. It is important everyone is on the same page as you. Think about the geographic area where you want to live. Do you want to live up north near your children or would you rather live here in sunny Florida?

Since this is a very complicated decision, it would be highly advisable to speak with someone like myself who has industry knowledge and someone who can help educate you about the various options that exist in this market. It is advisable to avoid internet searching since there are unethical companies out there who will gather your personal information and sell it to third parties.

Trying to do this on your own could have major implications you would want to avoid. The last thing you would want to do is move somewhere and later find out the community is in financial or operational turmoil. As the “Matchmaker of Senior Housing,” we can help you find a community with like-minded people and a place where you can be happy and safe.

Taking your time and doing your due diligence is very important. Not all communities are the same. It might take multiple visits before you will be able to feel comfortable with your choice. Most good communities will require a medical assessment, so being five years too early will be an important consideration at this stage. Some communities will have a waiting list, which factors in this overall timing of your move.

John Beckley once said, “People don’t plan to fail, they fail to have a plan.” Maybe 2023 is the year for you to develop your plan!

Rabbi Barbara Aiello

Bruce

Rhony Lizzy Savetsky headlines Chanuka social media campaign against rising antisemitism

New York, NY (Dec. 19, 2022) —

In a symbolic act of solidarity and courage during an increasingly worrisome time for Jews worldwide, Lizzy Savetsky, social media influencer, Zionist, former member of “The Real Housewives of NY,” and no stranger to antisemitism, aligned with Friends of the IDF (FIDF), along with some of the most recognized and respected Jewish influencers from across the globe, for a Chanukah campaign aimed at combatting antisemitism.

The campaign, “Live the Miracle,” celebrates the miracle that is Israel and the Jewish people who, throughout history, continue to rise in the face of terror, even when the odds are stacked against them.

On the eve of Chanukah, Savetsky opened her home and heart to a courageous Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier from across oceans and, together, they lit candles and shared meaningful traditions that have been practiced for centuries. IDF soldiers are among the most demonized/antagonized of Jews and this campaign is a call to action to show support for those who are responsible for keeping the miracle of the Jewish people alive.

Savetsky’s family welcomed with open arms Sergeant Shachar, a naval combat

sailor in the IDF who, weeks ago, successfully intercepted two drones sent by the Hezbollah terror organization in an attempt to damage one of Israel’s gas rigs.

“Chanukah is the perfect representation of bringing light to the darkness! As proud Jews, we want our light to shine as bright as possible in this time of growing hate towards our people. We will not back down or shrink away. Shachar’s courage and strength, and the bravery of her fellow soldiers, inspires us to keep going! Together, we can light up the world,” said Savetsky.

The intimate and meaningful celebration can be seen on Savetsky’s Instagram, @lizzysavetsky, as well as @friends_of_the_ idf and fidf.org/miracle.

The full eight-night infl uencer lineup was as follows:

Night 1: Lizzy Savetsky (Zionist, social media influencer and matchmaker)

Night 2: Alex and Loren Brovarnik (Stars of the hit series, “90 Day Fiancé”)

Night 3: Modi Rosenfeld (Stand-up comedian and actor)

Night 4: Tova Friedman (Holocaust survivor and TikTok sensation)

Night 5: Ashley Waxman Bakshi (beauty, travel and fashion creator and social media influencer)

Night 6: Cathy Heller (Author and podcast host)

Night 7: Kosha Dillz (Rapper)

Night 8: Noa Tishby (Israeli actress, writer and activist)

“It’s a privilege to stand in solidarity with these influential Jewish figures who will not let darkness prevail. These are people, who, in the face of social media and all sorts of attacks, are standing up for morality, for dignity, and for these young men and young women who are literally at the front line of humanity,” said Steve Weil, CEO of Friends of the IDF.

All nightly videos will be posted on each influencer’s Instagram page, @friends_of_the_idf and fidg.org/ miracle.

About Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF):

FIDF was established in 1981 by a group of Holocaust survivors as a 501(c)(3) notfor-profit organization with the mission of transforming the lives of the young men and women of the IDF who protect Israel and Jews worldwide through empowering educational, financial, wellbeing and cultural initiatives. With 24 chapters throughout the U.S., FIDF proudly supports soldiers before, during and after their service, as well as families of fallen soldiers and wounded veterans, reinforcing the vital bond between the communities in the U.S. and the soldiers of the IDF. For more information, please visit www.fidf.org.

The Savetsky family with Sgt. Shachar

Lizzy Savetsky

Photo credit: Courtesy of FIDF

Celebrate Israel’s 75th birthday at Jewish National Fund-USA’s Breakfast for Israel

If you can’t get to Israel, the next best thing is Jewish National Fund-USA’s Breakfast for Israel, which will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 10 a.m. at The Baker Museum at Artis—Naples.

In addition to celebrating the Jewish Homeland’s monumental milestone, the event will feature keynote speaker Alon Ben-Gurion, grandson of David Ben-Gurion, founder of the state of Israel, who will discuss how his grandfather’s vision is being brought to life through Jewish

National Fund-USA’s work ensuring a bright and prosperous future for the land and people of Israel. He will also address how, as an acclaimed international hospitality consultant, he is using his extensive network and industry knowhow to actively promote development in Israel’s Negev Desert, working to make the region bloom.

“No one knows Israel like Jewish National Fund-USA,” said JNF-USA’s

President of the Naples Board of Directors, David Braverman. “Commemorate this occasion with like-minded community members and learn about the organization’s bold and visionary initiatives that have opened the doors to life-changing educational, economic, cultural and medical advancements across Israel’s north and south.”

Register at jnf.org/ BFINaples or contact Joshua Mellits, director, Western Florida and Orlando at jmellits@jnf.org or 941-462-1330 x865.

About Jewish National Fund-USA

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

This Tu Bishvat, don’t grow up, grow down!

matters a millionfold. A good early childhood education prepares a person for the world in a way that nothing else can. I learn this every day from my wife, Ettie, who directs the Preschool of the Arts.

The Jewish calendar truly has a holiday for everyone. This month, Shvat is a winner with the nature enthusiasts. Tu Bishvat, celebrated as the birthday of the trees, marks the day when fruit trees begin to blossom in Israel for the first time since Rosh Hashana. Personally, my Tu Bishvat came early this year, in a mystical sort of way. Let me explain — Tu Bishvat doesn’t just celebrate the trees growing outside, but also compares people to trees, and reminds us to celebrate our own personal growth and our steadfast roots. Trees are most vulnerable when they’re small, or even before they grow. While scratching a fully grown tree won’t really affect it, a seed with a scratch or blemish will struggle to grow evenly and to produce healthy fruit. While a larger tree may be able to handle it, too much rain could drown a seedling entirely, and too little will completely dry it out. A small sapling in its first three years needs attentive loving care, with just the right amount of sun and water, and not too much windy turbulence — but not too little either, or it won’t grow roots. Our small children are the same. In their early years, they are most impressionable, and every bit of care

While some people mistake preschool for simple babysitting, Ettie puts unbelievable thought and love into the education of the small children in her school, taking every detail into consideration, and understanding every child’s unique needs. I often sit in awe, just observing the incredible work that she puts into each activity and lesson. And it shows — anyone who walks into the classroom can feel it in the ambience. Just the right amount of rain, sunshine and calming breeze to grow strong and healthy trees.

So, how did my Tu Bishvat come early? At Chabad Naples & Preschool of the Arts, we just completed phase two of the “Let’s Grow” campaign to raise funds for construction of a brand-new preschool building, complete with innovative communal spaces. Over 500 community members contributed, showing that they, too, understand the very particular needs of our littlest trees.

Now, life is not without its hard times. Just like trees, we people need strong roots. In fact, we don’t just need the roots in place, we need to know they are there, so we feel ready when the strong winds come. Our roots come from our ancestors and teachers of the past who weathered strong storms themselves and taught us how to do the same.

When we feel that life’s challenges are becoming too strong and the storm too frightening, that’s when we need to look back at our roots. Remember that they’re holding us tight and cheering us on, because they know that we can do it, just like they did years before. We learn from their experiences, breathe in their wisdom, then stand grounded in our place, even when everything seems to be going the other way.

While we do our best to protect our children from the harsh realities of this world, we also must teach them about their roots, and give them the confidence

to connect with that deep internal strength. Tu Bishvat is the perfect time to sit down with our children and teach them about their roots with stories of our heroes and role models from our past.

We’re securing building permits for our new state-of-the-art preschool building and gathering spaces and have entered the final phase of our “Let’s Grow” campaign. In the meantime, to everyone who inspired me this Tu Bishvat, and who help care for our little trees to make a better world in the future — I salute you.

Rabbi Zaklos Fishel serves at Chabad Jewish Center of Naples.

Rabbi Fishel Zaklos

Alon Ben-Gurion

The beginning of months

Ammos Chorny

In the Book of Exodus (12:2), God points out that the Exodus from Egypt should mark the start of the Jewish calendar. Henceforth, the Israelites regard Nisan as the first month. This may sound surprising, since we are accustomed to marking the Jewish new year with Rosh Hashanah. So, does the Jewish year start in Tishrei or Nisan? The Talmud records discussions about this question, shedding light on the various ways we mark time as individuals, as a nation and as human beings.

Tractate Rosh Hashanah begins with the assertion that there are four different ‘new years’ – Nisan: marking the cycle of festivals and measuring the reign of Jewish kings, Elul: marking the new year for tithing cattle, Tishrei: the new year for tithing produce and the reign of foreign kings and Shvat: the new year of trees. These four do not present a conflict until a fierce debate ensues about when the world was created, as all agree that the world was created only once. But was it on Tishrei or Nisan?

Each rabbi marshals evidence in favor of his opinion for dating creation, reflecting their broader sensibilities. For Rabbi Eliezer, the new year depends on the creation of the world, a universal event independent of Jewish history. But to Rabbi Yehoshua’s more particularistic sensibility, time begins with the Exodus from Egypt, hence Nisan becomes the first month and, thus, it must have been in Nisan that the world was created, and that the world will someday be redeemed.

This tension between the universal and the particular is also reflected in Rashi’s first comment on the Torah. Quoting his father, Rabbi Yitzchak, he asks why the Torah begins with the book of Genesis. After all, the Torah could have begun with God’s commandment to mark the year with the month of Nisan.

If the Torah is a ‘book of laws,’ why does it have to inform us about the creation of the entire world? The answer is to be found in a verse from Psalms (111:6): “He [God] reveals to His people

His powerful works, in giving them the heritage of nations” …in order that He might someday give the people of Israel their heritage, namely the Promised Land.

Rashi explains that since the Torah begins with Genesis, the Israelites can turn to the Torah to point out that God created the world and, thus, it is God’s prerogative to choose whom to give the land of Canaan. Consequently, the universal serves to justify the particular — the Torah begins with the creation of all of humanity to justify God’s unique relationship with one particular nation.

All of this reflects our tradition’s universalist and particularistic tendencies, reflected in the various ways we mark time. As universalists, we live in accordance with the secular calendar, scheduling appointments and dating documents in January, February, etc. But, as Jews, we also live in accordance with the particular rhythms of the Hebrew calendar marking holidays, determining when to feast and when to fast. And beyond the universal and the particular, we also have personal calendars marking birthdays, wedding anniversaries and important dates in our lives. These multiple calendars all map onto one another, such that the first of January may be not just the secular new year but also, say, the 10th of the Hebrew month of Tevet and the yahrzeit of a beloved grandmother. We live in accordance with the various rhythms of the affiliations that matter most to us.

When God tells Moshe: “this month shall mark for you the beginning of the months,” God is essentially stating that the Exodus is such a powerful and momentous event, that it is as if time starts all over again. But it is not the only such event. As individuals, we all experience moments when time seems to start anew — when we get married or become parents, etc. These occasions mark, for us, new beginnings, as we think in terms of how long we’ve been married or how old our child has grown or how old our parents would have been.

As the rabbis of the Talmud knew, time does not just start anew for us in Nisan; our lives are punctuated by significant new beginnings, and the various ways we chart our time infuse our lives with meaning.

Rabbi Ammos Chorny serves at Beth Tikvah.

Immigration

Steven Chizzik President

Irecently read the John Grisham novel, “Sooley.” It follows a teenage boy who plays basketball on dirt streets in South Sudan and, by luck, is spotted by a coach who brings him to the United States to play in a basketball tournament. From this stroke of luck, which separates him from a totally impoverished country in a civil war, a stark contrast is built between the life he has escaped and the conditions his family is suffering. Clearly, this is not the typical John Grisham genre we all know.

This novel made me focus on the immigration policy of the United States and the tyranny and ridiculous poverty that so many people are trying to escape. I know this is a difficult topic with many varying opinions, and I don’t proport to have all the answers; however, what I can do is bring this subject to the forefront for all of us to think about.

The Torah in Exodus says,” You shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the feelings of the stranger, having yourselves been strangers in the land of Egypt.” Our own history should encourage us to make our country an example for the free world to make the United States a safe haven for those living in oppression and extreme poverty. I am sad to see other nations opening their borders to shelter and feed the oppressed as we spend years fighting amongst ourselves to have a coherent immigration policy.

As Jews living in our United States, we can’t forget about all those Jews that were turned away from the U.S. during WWII as the State Department argued that refugees posed a serious threat to the United States. Today, 32% of Jewish adults in the U.S. are either first- or second-generation immigrants, and I would guess at least two-thirds of Jews today are first-, second- or third-generation immigrants.

We are only too aware of the worker shortage in our country, which is often blamed as one of the reasons for our accelerating inflation problem these past few years. Walk into any restaurant here in Naples and the first thing you hear is how difficult it is for the restaurant to find workers.

I think we need to open our eyes to the tragedies of poverty and tyranny around the world and implore our elected officials to remember we were strangers in a foreign land, also.

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

I, again, would like to remind everyone that Beth Tikvah is now off ering new members their first year’s dues free of charge. If you or a friend wishes to experience the warmth and community found at Beth Tikvah, please join us.

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

Beth Tikvah Happenings

• Feb. 10-12 – Scholar in Residence weekend

• Feb. 12 – Naples Jewish Film Festival

• Feb. 26 – Naples Jewish Film Festival

• Every Tuesday at 12:15 p.m. – Rabbi Chorny’s Lunch and Learn via Zoom

• Friday services begin at 6:15 p.m. in person and Zoom

• Saturday services begin at 9:30 a.m. in person and Zoom

• Sunday morning services begin at 9 a.m. in person and Zoom

• We convene Yahrzeit minyanim upon request.

Please check the Beth Tikvah website at www.bethtikvahnaples.org for details of all our events. You may reach Rabbi Chorny directly at 239-537-5257.

Don’t miss this year’s Jewish Book Festival!

For full details on the 2022-23 Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival — including authors, book descriptions, event dates, registration and more … visit the Book Festival website: www.JewishBookFestival.org

Rabbi

Activities for everyone

Charles Flum President

One of the two holidays of the year for which the rabbis opined that it was perfectly fi ne to get drunk is fast approaching. I’m talking, of course, about Purim (the other is Simchat Torah). Now, we at Naples Jewish Congregation (NJC), the small congregation with the big heart, are not going to do that (I hope) during our March 10 Purim service but we are going to have a great time with our Purim shpeil. Directed by music director Alla Gorelick, congregation members will act for the enjoyment of all. So come, eat hamentashen, drink a glazele wine and enjoy.

This is just one of many activities in which we engage. Last December, we hosted a table at the community Chanukah celebration at Mercato, offering children the opportunity to make and eat marshmallow and pretzel dreidels.

Rabbi Herman participated in the Chanukah lighting. Jane Galler, our cantorial soloist, not only sang with other cantors but she also led a children’s choir in Chanukah songs.

January saw another meeting of Flamingle, our informal congregationwide get-together where we have various activities and get to know each other better. In December, we had a trip to the Holocaust Museum in Naples along with a box lunch from Panera Bread. It is good to get together with other congregants in informal settings where new friendships can be fostered.

On the education side, Rabbi Herman gave another of his Adult Ed classes in January. “Lessons Learned through Chassidic Tales” was very thought provoking.

On Feb. 24 at 5 p.m., he will teach “Inspired Messengers: A Spotlight on Biblical Prophets.”

The second section of the Tanach, the Jewish Bible, is called “Prophets: Nevi’im.” It begins with the book of Joshua and concludes with the literary prophets. What is the role of prophecy? When did it begin? What are the enduring messages that are relevant for us in the 21st century. They lived and wrote during the difficult days of the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judea and the fall of Jerusalem. The primary resource will be selections from the Tanach. Come join us for the class, then a light dinner followed by services.

Speaking of education, did you know the Megillat Esther is the only book in the Tanach which does not mention God? Or that Esther’s name is not really Esther, but Hadassah? Did you know Mordecai was Esther’s first cousin? Or that Vashti was punished for not responding to Ahasuerus so that women would keep obeying their husbands? And that Esther was brought to the harem of virgins, spent a night with Ahasuerus and thereafter was in the harem of concubines until she was made queen?

Did you know the decree Haman (BOO! HISS!) engineered to kill the Jews was never rescinded? A second decree was issued that the Jews could defend themselves. Haman (BOO! HISS!) was killed by impaling him on a stake. His 10 sons were also impaled, but after they had been killed. Look it up. It’s all in Megillat Esther.

So come, one time, learn about the prophets; another, eat Haman’s ears; and always, worship God. To find out more about the small temple with the big heart, go to naplesjewishcongregtion.org.

Rabbi Herman

Chabad Naples update

Adult Education

The first installment of our Adult Education series, Defining the Divine, was so successful that we are adding a new and exciting course called Book Smart. Register for this class at chabadnaples.com/ newcourse. This course through Judaism’s most important titles, and the authors who inscribed them, will be held on six Mondays, Jan. 30-March 6, 7-8:30 p.m. at Chabad Naples.

A panoramic overview of 3,000 years of Jewish learning, this course introduces you to the works that earned us the title, “The People of The Book.” You will experience the different genres that shape Jewish life, including Tanach, Midrash, Talmud, Halachah, Philosophy, Kabbalah, Musar and Chasidism. Whether you’re meeting these texts for the first time or as a seasoned scholar, this course will inform and enrich all your Jewish learning.

Hebrew reading

Have you ever wished you could follow along with more of the prayers in synagogue?

Have your “Baruch Atahs” gotten a little rusty since your Bar/Bat Mitzvah? Join us Thursday evenings to learn how to read

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

For more information contact Joshua Bialek at jbialek@porterwright.com

Hebrew! The instruction is peppered with insights and explanations on the meanings of the prayers to enrich your understanding. Call the office for more details.

Men’s Club

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

The big build has begun!

Chabad of Naples and Preschool of the Arts has launched a capital campaign to extend the campus, thus increasing our facilities to include much-needed additional preschool and Hebrew School classrooms as well as expanded summer camp and new spaces for community events.

The Big Build is a $6-million community-inspired and community-funded effort. We are so grateful to the more than 500 supporters and donors who helped us unlock the Baker Challenge Grant. We have now reached $4 million raised of the total $6 million campaign — two-thirds of the way there!

We are so excited for 2023 and the future. To learn more about dedication opportunities, please call our office or email me (rabbi@chabadnaples.com). We would love to discuss the beautiful opportunities to honor a loved one and invest in the Jewish future of Naples through this momentous project.

You can also donate through our website. Every donation will go toward completing Phase 3 and bringing us to The Big Build finish line!

Help us make this a reality. A community effort for a community center.

Visit NaplesBigBuild.com for more information.

Visit Israel

We say “Next year in Jerusalem” at the Passover Seder each year, but have you actually gone? We invite you to join the Chabad Naples community on this amazing trip, March 13-20, 2023. Come see the Holy Land in style! Enjoy a week-long VIP experience of sights, sounds and tastes that will deepen your connection to Judaism and the land our forefathers and mothers called home. This five-star excursion won’t be the same without you!

Busy in Brooklyn is coming to Naples!

Renowned chef and cookbook author, Chanie Apfelbaum, is coming all the way from Brooklyn to cook with us! Her bestselling works, “Millennial Kosher” and “Totally Kosher,” have put traditional Jewish cuisine (with a twist) on the culinary map. This ain’t your bubbe’s gefilte fish!

Mark your calendar for Feb. 2 at 6:30 p.m. and see more info at ChabadNaples.com.

Open to all! Come cook, taste and schmooze with Jewish Naples! Learn more about Chanie’s work at busyinbrooklyn.com.

Shabbat and Kiddush

Shabbat services at Chabad Naples are very popular. The Torah service begins at 11 a.m. and includes the rabbi’s contemporary, meaningful and relevant insights during the Torah reading. Kiddush luncheon following services.

CHABAD

www.chabadnaples.com / 239.262.4474 Read the current and previous editions of the FederationStar online at www.jewishnaples.org

TEMPLE SHALOM www.naplestemple.org / 239.455.3030

Are you in a havurah?

Deborah R. Fidel, JD, MAJPS, Temple Shalom Executive Director

The word “havurah” comes from the Hebrew word “haver” meaning “friend.” A havurah is a group of approximately 10 to 12 individuals or families who meet regularly to socialize,

celebrate Jewish life together and participate in social action projects. Havurot (plural of havurah) provide an excellent opportunity for members to get to know others in the Temple Shalom family who share similar values and interests. Havurot have fl ourished at Temple Shalom for many years, resulting in many lifelong friendships.

Each havurah group is self-directed, planning its activities based on the interests of its members. Some groups are more social in nature, while others focus

more on religious, family or study-related activities. They may even take the form of a book club. Past activities of our havurot have included potluck dinners, book discussions, sports (bowling, skating, hiking), musical or theater events, movies, Shabbat dinners, Havdalah services, Passover Seders, Hanukah parties and other holiday celebrations.

Belonging to a havurah can be fun and enriching. Some members report that their havurah has become their extended family. It is a great way to meet people

with similar interests, get to know other people and families and build friendships.

Groups are usually formed on the basis of shared interests and stage of life. New havurot are being formed all the time. Whatever your interests, age or stage of life, we will get you started on the path to building new, lasting friendships.

If you are interested in a havurah or just want to learn more about the advantages to joining the Temple Shalom family, call me at 239-455-3030 or drop me a line at info@naplestemple.org.

JEWISH CONGREGATION OF MARCO ISLAND

Join us in February

Stan Alliker President

The Jewish Congregation of Marco Island continues its series of events for February. Religious services are held every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. Torah Study is at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, followed by services. On Feb. 3, the Cantor will conduct a sermon in song. All are welcome.

On Feb. 5, JCMI will have its 40th anniversary luncheon celebration of the

www.marcojcmi.com / 239.642.0800

Temple. Join us for a deli lunch and celebration.

On Feb. 12, the Jewish Film Festival will offer “Schachten.”

On Feb. 16, the Barbara P Katz Mahjongg Tournament will be held. Please RSVP by Feb. 9.

Federation Shabbat will be on Feb. 17.

The Cultural Series continues on Feb. 18 with a presentation on Sinatra’s Great

American Songbook performed by Charlie Blum. Sinatra’s greatest hits will be an evening of musical memories.

On Feb. 26, JCMI will hold the rabbi’s Lifelong Learning series featuring “Israel’s Music in Wartime,” a window into the soul of the nation. All are invited.

Tickets and reservations to all events are available through the congregation office at 239-642-0800.

We’re growing in many ways

By Ettie Zaklos, Preschool of the Arts Founder & Director

The new calendar year comes right in the middle of our academic year and serves as a welcome pause to reflect on all we’ve accomplished, as well as how much more we hope to achieve in the future. It is during this time that we redouble our efforts to make sure that the families in our preschool community are truly getting the most they possibly can from our quality programming.

In the last weeks of 2022, our community came together to complete Phase 2 of our Big Build fundraising campaign, unlocking a $2 million matching grant from Jay and Patty Baker. It is incredible that, in just half a year after launching this campaign, we are already two-thirds of the way to reaching our $6 million goal.

This expansion of building a new 17,000-square-foot building is a monumental milestone for POTA that reflects the growth of our community over 12 years. Over a decade ago, when we were still building the preschool from the ground up, I could never have imagined that one day we would be building at this level to meet growing demands of our families.

I am so grateful to our families who believe in POTA, trust us with their precious children and support us through it all. We could not reach any of our milestones without you. Every year, our parents come together to dream big and do better for our children — and this is the biggest fundraising eff ort we have undertaken to date. I am humbled and grateful to be entering the new year with plans to break ground on the new building in the months ahead!

But our growth is not just limited to new buildings! Last year, we set out on an initiative to enhance our professionally landscaped Garden of the Arts and to offer an even more comprehensive, outdoor experience that can engage the children in microenvironments. The “Tiny Seed to Table” project is coming together and will be completed very soon. We are bringing a magical new botanical wonderland to our campus with a new Vegetable and Herb Garden, Butterfly and Blossoms Garden, Fairy Grove and Kitchen Garden with a sitting nook.

This year, we have been so excited to embark on a new experiential culinary journey as the enhanced garden allows our children to plant, harvest and prepare produce-based snacks in their own sustainable garden and outdoor kitchen. We are thrilled that the mini farm-totable experience right here at POTA will give our children the unique joy and satisfaction of connecting to the food they grow!

This month, we will celebrate Tu B’Shvat in the garden with our annual Tea Party in the Garden event.

Recently, we installed a customized garden path of engraved pavers honoring our donor families for their contributions. We will always be humbled by the outpouring of love from our community as you help us provide better learning experiences for our children.

“Community Helpers” month

The value of community is an important theme at our preschool, so we designated January as “Community Helpers” month. Throughout the month we explored the careers of the people who enhance our lives, expanding the children’s understanding of the world around them. We welcomed parents and members of our community to visit and share their careers with our students.

Children’s interest in the community around them begins at a tender age. We

hope that learning about a wide range of interesting jobs helps fire up their imaginations and drive for the future.

Summer of the Arts

As the winter months fly by, our preschool team is also busy planning another fantastic Summer of the Arts experience! Our widely acclaimed summer program for children ages 18 months to 8 years integrates various creative arts and educational themes in a safe, multisensory and Jewish-spirited setting. This year, our theme is “STEAMsational,” inspired by our commitment to learning. We hope to help our campers start dreaming of STEAM!

In two three-week sessions, children will have opportunities to experience science, creative arts, culinary arts, sports, yoga, and so much more through exciting, stimulating hands-on activities. For more information or to register, please call 239-263-2620 or enroll online at NaplesPreschooloftheArts.com.

Creating special fond memories at Preschool of the Arts with Pajama Day

Celebrating the incredible dedication of POTA’s teachers and administrators

www.naplestemple.org / 239.455.3030

Purim

By Rabbi Ariel Boxman, Director of Lifelong Learning

This year, Temple Shalom is proud to be hosting a Purim festival that will be open to the entire Naples community. The festival will feature a variety of food trucks, live entertainment, music, bounce houses, carnival games, pony rides and a raffle. The entry fee is $5 per person and all proceeds from the event will benefit the youth of Temple Shalom. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the event entrance.

For those who are interested, we will also host our annual Purim Spiel immediately before the carnival. All are invited

to join us for this musical telling of the Book of Esther. This year’s spiel will feature music from The Beatles!

Purim is a wonderful time to come together and celebrate our religious freedom! It is a holiday that is fun for both children and adults. Come in costume, taste some delicious baked goods (Hamantaschen) and enjoy an afternoon of music, food and fun!

For more information and to buy advanced tickets, email me at aboxman@ naplestemple.org.

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

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

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

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

advertising manager, subject to the approval of the Federation board.

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

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

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

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

objecting to

of the Editor or

TEMPLE SHALOM

OF NAPLES (Reform)

4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL 34119

Phone: 455.3030  Fax: 455.4361 Email: info@naplestemple.org www.naplestemple.org

Rabbi Adam Miller, MAHL Cantor Donna Azu, MSM

Rabbi Ariel Boxman, MAHL, MARE, Director of Lifelong Learning Rabbi James H. Perman, D.D., Rabbi Emeritus Deborah Rosen Fidel, J.D., MAJPS, Executive Director Len Teitelbaum, President Jim Cochran, Music Director

Shabbat Services: Shabbat Eve - Friday 7:30 p.m. Shabbat - Saturday 10 a.m.

Sisterhood Men’s Club

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

CHABAD NAPLES JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

serving Naples and Marco Island 1789 Mandarin Road, Naples, FL 34102 Phone: 262.4474 Email: info@chabadnaples.com Website: www.chabadnaples.com

Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos Co-directors

Dr. Arthur Seigel, President

Shabbat Services

Shabbat - Saturday 10 a.m.

Camp Gan Israel Hebrew School Preschool of the Arts Jewish Women’s Circle Adult Education Bat Mitzvah Club

Friendship Circle Smile on Seniors Flying Challah Kosher food delivery

CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS & ESTERO 24611 Production Circle Bonita Springs, FL 34135 Phone: 239-949-6900

Email: chabad@jewishbonita.com Website: www.JewishBonita.com

Rabbi Mendy & Luba Greenberg Co-directors

Services: Sunday 9 a.m. Monday through Friday 8 a.m. Shabbat 10 a.m.

Adult Education

Challah of Love Community Events

Daily Minyan Services

Hebrew School Kosher Grocery Kosher Meals on Wheels Smile on Seniors

JEWISH CONGREGATION

OF MARCO ISLAND (Reform) 991 Winterberry Drive Marco Island, FL 34145

Phone: 642.0800  Fax: 642.1031

Email: tboxma@marcojcmi.com Website: www.marcojcmi.com

Rabbi Mark Gross Hari Jacobsen, Cantorial Soloist Stan Alliker, President

Shabbat Services

Friday 7:30 p.m.

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

Rabbi’s Lifelong Learning Series

Sidney R. Hoffman Jewish Film Festival Saul I. Stern Cultural Series JCMI Book Club

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION

(Reform)

Services are held at:

The Unitarian Congregation 6340 Napa Woods Way Rabbi Howard Herman 431.3858

Email: rabbi@naplesjewishcongregation.org www.naplesjewishcongregation.org Charles Flum, President Jane Galler, Cantorial Soloist

Shabbat Services Friday evenings 7 p.m. May - August: services once a month Sisterhood • Men’s Club Adult Education • Adult Choir Social Action • Community Events

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

Rabbi Ammos Chorny Steve Chizzik, President Roberta Miller, Secretary

Shabbat Services

Friday evenings 6:15 p.m. Saturday mornings 9:30 a.m. Youth Education Adult Education Community Events

Jewish Organizations to

in Greater

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

• Federation Board Chair: Jane Schiff

• Federation President/CEO: Jeffrey Feld

American Jewish Committee

Regional Dir: Brian Lipton, 941.365.4955

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

President: Joyce Toub, 518.330.1559

Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center

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

Israel Bonds Monica DiGiovanni, 727.282.1124

Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida

President: Marina Berkovich, 566.1771

Jewish National Fund Joshua Mellits, 941.462.1330 x865

Jewish War Veterans Post 202 Commander, Harvey Sturm, 261.3270

Men’s Cultural Alliance President: Michael Sobol, 508.733.9427

Naples BBYO Tara Harris, 407-832-4443

Naples Friends of American Magen David Adom (MDA)

SE Reg Dir: Joel Silberman, 954.457.9766

PJ Library

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

Women’s Cultural Alliance

President: Patti Boochever, 518.852.3440

Zionist Organization of America President: Jerry Sobel, 914.329.1024