Federation Star - March 2026

www.JewishNaples.org Y March 2026 – Adar/Nissan 5786 Y Vol. 35 #7

Star

Greater Naples

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

1.7

3,000

ONE STATE, ONE VOICE. Local Delegation Joins Israel Advocacy Push in State Capitol

See Page 3 Power of Community Annual Meeting p. 24 Jewish Federation of Greater Naples 4720 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34119

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March 2026

Fed Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

Community Rises to Meet Critical Security Need Exceeds $300,000 Goal

By Nathaniel Ritter, Board Chair & Nammie Ichilov, President & CEO

Nammie Ichilov

Nathaniel Ritter

Federation President & CEO

Federation Board Chair

"A

donai will guard your going out and your coming in, from now and forever.” ~Psalm 121:8

and overwhelming. Today, we are proud to share that the campaign has raised over $300,000 and is still receiving donations!

These ancient words remind us that the safety of our community, our children walking into Jewish preschools, our families gathering for Shabbat and our Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center guests attending programs, requires both faith and action. Last month, our community was called to act, and the response was nothing short of extraordinary.

The campaign began with a bold challenge from three families who understood the urgency of the moment.

Shelley and Steven Einhorn, Stephen Saks, and Schiff Family Fund stepped forward to offer a 2:1 match, pledging to match every community dollar raised up to $150,000. Their leadership sparked a wave of generosity that swept through our community, with individuals and families of all giving levels recognizing that protecting Jewish life is a responsibility we all share.

It is a sobering reality that Jewish communities across North America must now invest significantly in safety and security measures that once seemed unimaginable. Yet when the Jewish Federation launched our Community Security Campaign, asking our community to raise $300,000 for critical safety needs over the next two years, the answer was immediate

The funds raised are already making a tangible difference. Our community has implemented immediate security upgrades including increased security staff at events and programs, ID reader technology, improved surveillance and communication

Shine a Light

S H AB B AT

systems, and critical support for ongoing safety costs. Perhaps most significantly, these resources sustain our regional security advisor who maintains our vital connection to the Secure Community Network

"Antisemitism is the world's most reliable early warning sign of a major threat to freedom." ~Rabbi Jonathan Sacks (SCN), North America's official Jewish security organization, ensuring we have access to real-time intelligence, expert guidance, and best practices from across the continent.

As the campaign drew to a close, four additional families stepped forward with matching gifts that were critical in pushing us beyond our goal: Beth and Robert Enloe and Judy Coates z"l, Brenda and Ira Jaffe, Susan and Nathaniel Ritter, and Susan and Jay Weiss. Their generosity in the final days demonstrated that when it matters most, this community shows up.

But the true heroes of this campaign are the hundreds of community members who gave what they could, from major gifts to modest donations, each one a statement of our values, each one a vote of confidence in our shared future. Teachers and parents, young professionals and retirees, longtime members and newcomers all contributed to ensure that our community remains a place where Jewish life can flourish openly and safely.

The need for this campaign reflects a reality we wish did not exist. But our response to that reality reflects who we are: a community that does not wait for perfect conditions, that steps forward when it matters, and that refuses to let fear dictate how we live Jewish lives.

Through your generosity, we are building that safe dwelling place, not just with technology and personnel, but with the collective commitment of a community that protects what matters most.

To every donor, every volunteer, every family who participated: thank you for being part of the people who make great things possible. Because we are Stronger Together.

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March 2026

JEWISH FEDERATION

Fed Star

3

Greater Naples Delegation Joins Statewide Advocacy Efforts Alan Scher Zagier JCRC Director

B

raving a late-January cold snap that felt more like frostbite than Florida, our Naples delegation joined nearly 200 Jewish Federation and JCC representatives from across the state for two days of advocacy, engagement and Israel education at the Capitol.

The second annual Israel Day and Jewish Advocacy Day Fly-In in Tallahassee offered a valuable opportunity to connect face-to-face with key decision-makers, including the 13-person Florida Jewish Legislative Caucus and office visits with nine state lawmakers representing Southwest Florida.

Our mission was twofold: to garner support for two 2026 legislative priorities and to advocate for renewal of the full $10 million Florida Nonprofit Security Grant Program (FL-NSGP).

This critical funding enables faithbased and communal organizations — including synagogues, churches, community centers and day schools — to enhance security infrastructure.

The first day of the Israel Days Fly-In highlighted the strong economic and business ties between Israel and Florida. More than 50 Israeli companies supported by the nonprofit FloridaIsrael Business Accelerator have set up shop in the Sunshine State.

Several of those companies have local ties, including Ossio, an orthopedics firm whose product secures bone fractures and then naturally integrates into the body. The company’s chief medical officer, Dr. Greg Berlet, and his wife, Diane, recently moved to Naples.

Alan Scher Zagier, JCRC Director; Susan Pittelman; state Rep. Lauren Melo; and Myra Benedikt, Israel and Overseas Committee Chair Day Two began bright and early — amid record-breaking low temperatures — with a breakfast featuring remarks by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier and state Rep. Yvette Benarroch, who represents Naples and Marco Island and who is Jewish.

“I will always stand up for Jewish people. I want my children to grow up in a world where hate is not acceptable,” she said. “As a mother, a veteran and a woman, silence is never acceptable.

You are not alone. You have a state that will stand with you.”

At the time of our visit, both pieces of legislation were advancing through the legislative process, with adjournment of the 60-day session scheduled for March 13.

Participating in the Fly-In was a meaningful and most worthwhile experience. We are grateful to our partners at the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County and to Florida Jewish Federations statewide

for organizing this important event.

Thank you to our Jewish Community Relations Council and Jewish Federation of Greater Naples for giving us the opportunity to speak up and be heard. The Greater Naples delegation was comprised of Lisa Koppel, JCRC chair; Jane Schiff, immediate past president, JFGN board; Myra Benedikt; Joel and Susan Pittelman; Jacy Toll; and Alan Scher Zagier, JCRC director.

It was then time to work the halls of the Capitol, meeting with individual state representatives and senators who represent Collier and Lee counties. We left those meetings feeling encouraged that our voices had been heard, and that many lawmakers and their aides understood and shared our concerns. And that most importantly, they would stand with us.

Our advocacy focused on two pending bills:

"Florida’s business-friendly climate, strong military presence and hightech resources make it an ideal partner for Israeli businesses," said Matt Swanson, president of SelectFlorida, the state’s economic development organization. “We have similar mindsets, similar goals,” he said. “Working together, we can help each other’s economies flourish.”

House Bill 111/Senate Bill 1072 would establish a statewide Antisemitism Task Force. The task force would include legislative co-chairs and appointees from governmental agencies and civic organizations, including law enforcement and Jewish nonprofits. Its mission would be to conduct a comprehensive review of the prevalence of antisemitism in Florida and annually recommend corrective policies.

That evening, the delegation gathered at the Capitol for a reception celebrating Israel Day. Several legislators joined us as we enjoyed Israeli food, sampled Israeli wines, experienced virtual-reality tours of Israel, and placed written messages into a replica of the Western Wall in Jerusalem.

House Bill 415/Senate Bill 486 would require all K-12 school districts and public college campuses in Florida to have a dedicated staff member to receive, investigate and monitor complaints of discrimination in education under the authority of Title VI of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964.

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Fed Star

March 2026

JEWISH FEDERATION

Purim and the Urgency of Standing Stronger Together

Greater Naples

Published by of Greater Naples

By Phyllis Strome, 2026 Annual Community Campaign Co-chair

P

urim arrives this year at the beginning of March, and its message feels painfully relevant. The holiday commemorates the Jews of ancient Persia being saved from Haman’s plan to annihilate the Jewish people in a single day, as told in the Book of Esther.

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

empower our institutions and community members to recognize antisemitism, respond thoughtfully and effectively, and reinforce a culture of respect and inclusion.

Officers

Congregation Beth Tikvah, founded in 1964 by 20 families, continues to serve the Conservative Jewish community, now encompassing approximately 160 families. It provides religious, educational, and meaningful opportunities that nurture Jewish life and prepare members to stand confidently against antisemitism.

Through Federation funding, local Jewish organizations can engage in antisemitism awareness initiatives, educational programming, leadership development, and collaboration with civic and interfaith partners. These efforts

Actual

Goal

2500000 2008000 1770000

1850000

1750000

1500000 1000000 500000

FY24

FY25

Chair: Nathaniel Ritter Immediate Past Chair: Jane Schiff Vice Chairs: Frank Baum, Rosalee Bogo, Robin Mintz Secretary: Marc Saperstein Treasurer: Steve Strome

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

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

Synagogue Representatives

3000000

3000000

2000000

$74,800

Scholarships & Birthright connecting young people to their heritage

Let’s exceed it together!

Three congregations that receive Federation support and benefit from these Phyllis Strome communal resources are: At its core, Purim is a story Temple Shalom, estabof antisemitism — state-enabled lished in 1962, has grown from hatred against Jews, driven by 57 members in 1975 to nearly one man’s obsession and fueled by harmful stereotypes about a minorCampaign Momentum ity that “does not follow the king’s Where Your Support Goes laws.” It reminds us that antisemitism is not a modern phenomenon. When hatred is tolerated or ignored, it can $277,627 $385,308 $328,447 Israel & overseas escalate quickly and with devastatIsrael Crisis Relief Supporting 27 domestic support through 16 responding to urgent needs agencies serving our partner organizations local community ing consequences.

Today, antisemitism is rising at alarming levels across the country and around the world, including in our own communities. Jewish Federation of Greater Naples is committed to confronting this reality not with fear, but with strength, education, and unity. Federation works to ensure that Jewish life in Greater Naples remains visible, proud, and supported, while also fostering understanding and partnerships beyond the Jewish community.

Star

2100000

FY26

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

Staff Every number tells a story of generosity. Every dollar represents a choice to show up for each other. This is what happens when a community decides that no one stands alone.

Make your contribution to the 2026 Annual Community Campaign today.

1,000 today. As a Reform congregation, it serves as a center for spiritual, cultural, and social engagement, strengthening Jewish identity while encouraging dialogue and understanding within the broader community.

Join us: Yom Ha’Atzmaut Concert with Hashayara Celebrating Israeli music and stories that strengthen the bond between Israel and Jewish communities worldwide.

Bring your family and friends and join us for this moving experience

Open to the Community, Free Event Sunday, April 19, 2 PM Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center Scan to Register or visit JFGN.regfox.com/doror-israel-hashayara

The Jewish Congregation of Marco Island is the spiritual home to more than 100 families. It offers worship, learning, and social connection, reinforcing Jewish pride, resilience, and community for residents of Marco Island.

From where do these vital efforts come? From you — the members of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. This community has demonstrated remarkable generosity in the past. We ask that you continue that commitment as we work toward this year’s campaign goal of $2.2 million. Every contribution helps ensure that Jewish life in Greater Naples remains vibrant, visible, and strong in the face of rising antisemitism.

If you have not yet made your committment, please consider doing so by calling Alicia Feldman, Director of Development, at 239-263-4205; visiting the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples website; or mailing a check to the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

Please make a difference. Let us be Strong Together.

Nammie Ichilov: President & CEO Jeffrey Feld: President & CEO Emeritus Eduardo Avila: Campaign Associate Melissa Barr: Business Development and Events Manager Reneé Bialek: Director of Programs Michelle Cunningham: Administrative Assistant Alicia Feldman: Director of Development Kayde Jones: Director of Marketing & Communications Pat Pastorius: Facility Manager Anthony Clark: Facility Assistant Susan Spoerlein: Accounting Manager Alan Scher Zagier: JCRC Director

Federation's mission is to enhance and enrich the quality of Jewish life by recognizing and supporting the charitable, educational, humanitarian and social service needs of the Jewish community locally, nationally, overseas and in the state of Israel.

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

March 2026

JEWISH FEDERATION

Fed Star

5

The Heart of Our Work Major Impact Areas

By Alicia Feldman, Director of Development

F

rom celebrations that bring us together to security that keeps us safe, your campaign dollars touch every aspect of Jewish life.

Security and Outreach, 12%

scholarships so every child can access Jewish education, regardless of family finances. We support teens through BBYO leadership programs. We connectcollege students to Jewish life on campus. We send young adults to Israel.

These investments ensure our community thrives for decades to come.

Security, JCRC The foundation that makes Alicia Feldman everything else possible.

Security ensures that we can gather Caring for Vulnerable without fear. The Nina Iser Jewish Populations, 20% Cultural Center serves as our community gathering space. JCRC advoHolocaust survivors, elderly care, cates for Jewish interests and builds humanitarian aid interfaith partnerships. These investOur sacred obligation to care for ments aren't glamorous, but they're those who need us most. Holocaust essential, the infrastructure of a survivors receive dignity and supthriving, safe, sustainable community. port in their final years. Frail elderly get case management. Israeli children in crisis find refuge. Food Investing in Next insecurity is addressed both here Generation, 14% and abroad. This is tikkun olam Youth programs, PJ Library, BBYO, (repairing the world) in action. scholarships, Birthright, campus life Jewish continuity depends on Building Community & engaging the next generation.

Culture, 54% We send books to young families through PJ Library. We provide All festivals, events,

Security & Outreach

12%

Building Community & Culture

54%

Investing in Next Generation

14%

Caring for Vulnerable Populations

20%

WCA/MCA, lectures, film festivals, publications These are the programs that bring us together: the festivals, films, lectures, and celebrations that fill our calendar and our hearts.

From the Jewish Book Festival that introduces us to new ideas to the community Hanukkah celebration where families gather, these programs create the fabric of Jewish life in Southwest Florida.

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

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March 2026

Fed Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

“Tax Smart Giving – Part 2” We Invite You to Learn How to Maximize Your Legacy and Minimize Your

By Paula Filler, Life & Legacy Endowment Chair

A

re you looking for ways to make your charitable giving more impactful while safeguarding your financial future? Mark your calendar for March 24 and join Jewish Federation of Greater Naples (JFGN) and TOP for their highly anticipated program, “Tax Smart Giving - Part 2 - Secure Your Family and Jewish Community.”

This event is designed for anyone eager to learn proven strategies for

leaving a meaningful legacy without compromising their current lifestyle.

ones while minimizing the impact of taxes. The workshop will also highlight ways to align your charitable giving with your Jewish values and introduce tax-savvy tools for supporting nonprofits.

Building on the resounding success of their “Money Matters and Legal Smarts” session, JFGN and TOP are responding to comWhether you’re newly munity demand with this Paula Filler informative seminar. retired, focused on estate Attendees will discover effective planning, or simply curious about techniques to pass on wealth to loved smarter giving, this session is for you.

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from financial and legal experts who will break down how the Big Beautiful Bill could affect your future and offer practical, actionable advice.

Space is limited and interest is high — secure your spot ... today! For registration information, see TOP ad on Page 19A. Join us on March 24 to take control of your financial legacy and make a lasting difference for your family and community.

Honoring Marc and Rita Weingarten A Legacy of Love and Leadership

By Joan Meltzer Blumkin, Life and Legacy Endowment Committee Member

E

very so often, a couple emerges whose lives quietly reflect the values of generosity, resilience, and community that define the Jewish spirit. Marc and Rita Weingarten are such a couple — their story rooted in history, shaped by compassion, and sustained by a deep commitment to Jewish life.

Rita’s journey began in Mandatory Palestine, born to parents who were Holocaust survivors. Her childhood was shaped by both loss and perseverance: her father lost his entire family, while her mother’s survived. In 1951, the family immigrated to the Bronx, bringing with them courJoan Blumkin age, hope, and a strong sense of togetherness. Her father

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Introduces the New 2026 Pomegranate Society Members Judith Belmont Margery Bluestein Elaine Brotman Margo Ceresney Diane Goldstein Lisa Gorman Mia Hyatt Leslie Jacobs Lori Kleiman Lisa Koppel Debbie Lurie

OF GREATER NAPLES of Greater Naples

THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.

Darlene Muller Elaine Rosen Lila Corn Rosenweig Carol Sherman Carol Simon Linda Simon Jennie Elias Stein Sydelle Weinberger Iris Weissman Susan Yale

worked as a pants cutter, and while finances were limited, their home overflowed with warmth, faith, and music, including the accordion Rita’s mother insisted she learn to play.

These early experiences instilled in Rita a lifelong appreciation for resilience, family, and joy.

Marc was raised in Philadelphia in a family that valued hard work and community involvement. Though they were not wealthy, giving was a constant, whether through modest donations to UJA or active participation in local causes. After earning his law degree, Marc moved to New York City, where a chance office encounter introduced him to Rita, then a young secretary. That meeting sparked a partnership defined by devotion, shared purpose, and an expanding commitment to philanthropy.

Together, the Weingartens built their lives in New York, raising two children who celebrated their B’nai Mitzvah at Central Synagogue. Marc served on the synagogue’s Board, while Rita volunteered actively, strengthening their spiritual and communal ties. A meaningful trip to Israel with thenCantor Angela Buchdahl, who is now a nationally respected rabbi, further

Rita and Marc Weingarten deepened Rita’s connection to Jewish life and the land of Israel.

Their generosity has always extended beyond synagogue walls. Rita volunteered in Harlem elementary schools, living the value of tikkun olam one child at a time. As a family, they established traditions of thoughtful giving that continue today. Through their family foundation, their children receive funds annually to support causes they care about, fostering values of responsibility and compassion. Their daughter-inlaw, a teacher, proudly supports PJ Library, helping ensure Jewish stories reach the next generation.

Marc and Rita Weingarten’s legacy is one of love, leadership, and enduring commitment — a quiet yet powerful testament to how values lived each day can shape generations to come.

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March 2026

Fed Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

Leadership and Legacy for Our Lion Pride

By Anne Schuchman, 2026 Lion of Judah Chair

N

ow is the perfect Appreciation Recepmoment to reflect on tion and the Women in our inspiring 2025–26 Philanthropy Luncheon, both featuring eyeseason and all that our Lion opening speakers and “pride” has accomplished together. This year began meaningful conversawith a fresh cabinet structure, tions. February brought welcoming a new group of exciting new additions to our calendar. Lions talented women who stepped on the Loose offered forward to lead with creativity, passion, and purpose. Anne Schuchman a unique pin-polishTheir efforts resulted in events ing gathering open to that were educational, enlightening, Lions from any community, with an and truly entertaining. optional dinner to follow. We also hosted a hands-on service project, benefitting Neve Michael in Israel In January, we gathered for the and Youth Haven here in Naples.

Major Gifts and Lion of Judah

Both events were rousing successes and reflected the growing energy of our pride.

This has truly been a year of growth.

We began with 139 Lions and are proud to now count 152 dedicated Jewish women philanthropists in the Greater Naples area who wear their Lion of Judah pin with pride.

For newer members, the Lion’s eye on the pin represents a donor’s giving level, ranging from a diamond at $5,000 to a cognac diamond at $75,000. A flame in the Lion’s raised paw signifies an endowed annual gift, ensuring a legacy that lives on.

For questions about updating your pin or about becoming a Forever Lion, please contact Alicia Feldman, Director of Development at afeldman@jewishnaples.org As our winter season winds down, I look forward to celebrating together at our Spring Luncheon on March 19 at Grey Oaks Country Club, featuring jewelry designer and Holocaust activist Frieda Rothman.

It promises to be a wonderful way to wrap up our season. I hope to see you there.

Finding Common Ground Uncomfortable Conversations with a Catholic and a Jew

By Ginny Segaloff, Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County

O

n Sunday, Jan. 25, Larry Hermalyn, a Jewish lawyer, and Dr. Dick Surrusco, a Catholic deacon, presented a follow-up to their 2025 successful program, Finding Common Ground: Uncomfortable Conversations with a Catholic and a Jew. Difficult and uncomfortable conversations and discussions occur every

day, everywhere and on every topic.

These conversations and discussions strike at the core of our very essence, who we are and who we understand ourselves to be. That is why these conversations and discussions often become contentious and heated.

Larry and Dick, both members of our Catholic-Jewish Dialogue (CJD), discussed issues related to

the traditions, customs and beliefs of both faiths that are practiced and experienced today.

women risked their lives to save thousands of Jewish children from the Warsaw ghetto.

They related the tropes and misconceptions of the past to the divisiveness of the current climate. With antisemitism on the rise, political and social issues dividing our nation, and violence increasing, the only way to find common ground is through active listening.

Most of the hidden children survived the war and many were later reunited with their Jewish families. At age 33, she was captured and tortured by the German Gestapo but refused to divulge anything about their underground operation.

Active listening means listening to understand, not to respond. When we are engaged in conversation, often we are formulating our response before the other person has completed his or her thought.

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Introduces the New 2026 Lions of Judah Jamie Adler Wynne Baruch Elissa Benchimol Nancy Benjamin Lisa Bernick Ilene Bischer Michele Brotman Katie Cohen Barbara He˜ er Dana Hurwitz Susan Rabin

OF GREATER NAPLES of Greater Naples

THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.

Jaqueline Rosenberg Jamie Silverstein Shelley Smith Susan Sokolov Merrill Solan Heidi Thorner Debby Waranch Laurie Weinberger Joan Werhane Darnell Martin Wimmer Barbara Wolfort

Welcome to the Pride!

If you would like more information on becoming a Lion of Judah in the Greater Naples area, contact 2026 Lion of Judah Chair, Anne Schuchman or call Alicia Feldman, Development Director, at 239-449-8266.

It is only through talking and listening with an open mind and an open heart, acknowledging the commonality of our origins, our shared moral compass and our humanity that we will build the bonds of friendships and trust that lead to respect.

Larry and Dick’s conversation with each other and with a deeply engaged audience served as a master class in the art of true dialogue.

Their program exemplified the mission and purpose of CJD: to promote an understanding of our mutual and shared history and to advance acceptance of our differences and commonalities in a setting of respect, trust, faith, friendship, and Hope.

Upcoming Program

Film screening: Irena Sendler: In the Name of Their Mothers, Sunday, March 29 at Blessed Mother Center, St. William Catholic Church, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples, FL 34103 Irena Sendler was a young Catholic social worker in Warsaw, Poland.

In this film a 95-year-old Sendler tells the remarkable story of how she and a group of young Polish

Register at jfgn.regfox.com// cjd-film-screening-march-2026

CJD Youth Programs

The Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County and the youth leaders of St. Agnes Catholic Church under the direction of Robert Massey, and St. William Catholic Church under the direction of Linda Giacalone, have initiated interfaith youth programs. The purpose of these programs is to educate and inform the faith formation groups about the culture, traditions and history of both faiths.

The youth, their leaders and their families have participated in CJD’s annual Kristallnacht commemoration, and last year, St. William hosted a Passover Seder, sponsored by CJD and led by Nammie Ichilov, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

This year, CJD is sponsoring two teen Seders at local Catholic parishes: • Sunday, March 15 - St. Agnes Catholic Church youth group, Robert Massey, youth and young adult coordinator. Officiated by Rabbi Frank Muller, Director of Pastoral & Spiritual Care, Temple Shalom • Wednesday, March 25 - St. William Catholic Church youth group, Linda Giacalone, youth faith formation minister. Officiated by Nammie Ichilov, President and CEO, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

March 2026

JEWISH FEDERATION

Fed Star

9

Nu Reads

By Deborah Hermalyn

N

u Re a d s i s e x c i t e d t o announce that master storyteller Allegra Goodman is the next author to be featured in the Nu Reads program! If you are a subscriber, you will receive Goodman’s soon-to-be released novel This Is Not About Us. If you are not yet a subscriber, become one now so that you won’t miss out on getting this award-winning novelist’s book!

with the book are notes and discussion questions from the

author. The subscription also provides opportunities to Zoom with the authors.

A new initiative from the Jewish Book Council and supported

by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, Nu Reads is a platform for Jewish voices to be heard and read.

Subscribe (for a fee) and receive a package every other month!

Nu Reads is a new bi-monthly book series celebrating Jewish authors and literature. Subscribers receive an autographed book by an outstanding author every other month. Included

If you are interested in learning more, visit NuReads.org or contact Deborah Hermalyn at Dphermalyn@ gmail.com.

Beading Buddies

By Carol Hirsch

T

he Beading Buddies have b e e n h a rd a t w o r k . I n D e ce m b e r o u r b e a d e rs participated in the very successful Shop with a Sheriff event, an endowed event co-sponsored

by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and the Collier County S h e ri ff 's d e p a rt m e n t. A b o u t 80 to 100 children in the Collier

County Schools were each paired with a Sheriff to shop in Walmart fo r C h ri s t m a s g i fts fo r t h e i r families. After their shopping spree, they were given a roll of wrapping paper and a gift bag with beaded jewelry.

We are now working on making jewelry for children in Immokalee

to give to someone special for Mother’s Day. B e a d i n g B u d d i e s m e et o n c e or twice a month at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center from 12:30-3:30 p.m. We will be meeting on the following dates: Wednesdays Mar.11, Mar. 18, Apr. 22 and Thursday, May 7.

Beading Buddies is a fun, free group. Donations are accepted to purchase more supplies. If you have jewelry you no longer want, consider donating it to Beading Buddies, where it will be remade into a new creation.

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

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10

Fed Star

March 2026

JEWISH FEDERATION

Naples Jewish Film Festival Heads into March As the Credits Roll

By NJFF Co-Chairs Andy Mintz and Stacey Baum

A

s the 13th Annual Naples Jewish Film Festival (NJFF) moves into its final month, audiences across Naples are responding with packed houses, lively post-film conversations, and powerful emotional connections.

Presented at The Naples Players at the Sugden Community Theatre on 5th Avenue, the festival continues through March with compelling films that celebrate Jewish culture, storytelling, history, and resilience.

The festival opened to an enthusiastic response with Once Upon My Mother, proudly sponsored by Kaye Lifestyle Homes, a film that

Film Festival Team

set a heartfelt tone for the season.

Audiences laughed, shed a few tears, and left the theater with a lasting sense of warmth and joy.

The film is a gentle reminder of the profound role a mother plays in our lives and the universal bonds

that connect us all. The evening was made even more memorable by a dessert reception featuring delicious treats baked by Marcia Cohodes and her team, creating a welcoming and celebratory start to this year’s festival.

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The festival continued with The Ring, proudly sponsored by Crown Jewelers, with valued supporting sponsorship from Norman Love Confections. The film stands out as a rare example of how a weighty and emotionally charged subject can be approached with a lighter, more nuanced touch — without ever compromising its authenticity. Striking this delicate balance is no easy feat, yet The Ring achieves it with remarkable finesse, engaging audiences through moments of warmth, humanity, and understated humor while honoring the depth of its story.

March’s lineup showcases some of the festival’s most anticipated selections, offering a mix of documentary, drama, and timely global perspectives.

The Stamp Thief, March 8 at 7 p.m.

(Film Sponsored by Azul Beauty) Part heist film, part probing documentary, director Dan Sturman and screenwriter Gary Gilbert take us on a quest to find stamps pilfered by a Nazi officer and buried in a basement in Legnica, Poland. The Stamp Thief , a cinematic blend of Argo and The Rape of Europa , is a tremendously entertaining film about an eighty-year-old heist, the ethics of misrepresenting the truth in order to do a mitzvah, and the intractable mistrust between some Poles and Jews. After the film, please join us for a conversation with the film’s LA producer and partner in crime Dan Sturman.

Midas Man, March 16 at 7 p.m.

(Film Sponsored by Mondo Uomo;

Supporting Sponsor: The Fab Three) Midas Man, a British docudrama, revisits the electric energy of the 1960s through the life of Brian Epstein, the visionary manager who helped launch The Beatles. With rich period detail and a celebrated soundtrack, this film brings history and pop culture together in unforgettable fashion. You will not want to miss the film’s kick off with live music from the Beatles Tribute Band, The Fab Three.

Closing Night: The Sea and Making Awareness

March 22 at 7 p.m.

(Film Sponsored by The Lutgart Companies) The festival concludes with The Sea , an Oscar-nominated Israeli drama that explores family, memory, and emotional reckoning.

The evening also features Making Awareness, a moving short documentary about the October 7 hostage poster campaign. Following the films, we will be in conversation with Director Susan Wassman.

A Community Effort

The Naples Jewish Film Festival is made possible through the generous support of sponsors, partners, and volunteers who share a commitment to cultural enrichment and meaningful storytelling. We are grateful to the many patrons who have already secured tickets and joined us this season.

Limited tickets and full festival details are available at Naples JewishFilmFestival.com See you on Fifth Avenue!

March 2026

Fed Star

11

ADVERTORIAL

Tips to Help Keep Spring Pests at Bay

by Oscar Avila-Jimenez, Truly Nolen

Every season seems to have certain pests where they do their best to make homeowners miserable.

can about bees and wasps and how to handle their presence.

Encephalitis outbreaks, the Zika virus, and West Nile Virus.

For Spring, the three insects we see more than any include ants, stinging insects like bees and wasps, and mosquitoes and No-See-Ums.

Wasps and bees are often mistaken for one another since both are capable of delivering painful stings.

Identifying the difference between wasps and bees is important when it comes to treating stings and identifying infestations in your home or yard. Bees measure around a half-inch long with hairy bodies while wasps can vary in size but average a half-inch long and have smooth and shiny skin. Most bee colonies can have populations close to 100,000 while wasps have smaller colonies.

Generally, if you are bitten by a mosquito, a mosquito bite will simply appear as a small itchy bump, but some people can have more intense reactions to the bites if they are allergic. Although a mosquito bite itself is harmless, the diseases they can potentially carry is where your concern should lie. Because of the risk, it is always smart to use insect repellant when outside and long sleeves and long pants at dawn and dusk to prevent mosquito bites. If at any time you feel that the bite is serious, seek medical help as soon as possible.

If you have been stung by a bee or a wasp, unless you are allergic, there are a few steps I recommend you can take at home before seeking medical treatment. Remove the stinger with tweeters or scrape it away using your fingernail – do not pinch the stinger as this can inject more venom. Control swelling to the area by icing it down. If you were stung on your arm or leg, elevate it.

For pain, take an over-the-counter painkiller such as ibuprofen or an allergy relief medicine. If you are feeling itchy apply a mixture of baking soda and water or a calamine lotion. Seek emergency care immediately if you are experiencing shortness of breath, tightness of the throat, abdominal pain, fast heartbeat, or loss of consciousness.

Some things a homeowner can do to combat these multiple Spring pests:

Why are ants problematic? As you may already know, ants can pose health and property risks – from food contamination to costly property damage. At this time of year, they become more active and visible in our area because they are foraging for food and water.

Ants will eat practically any kind of food, but are especially attracted to sweets as they supply a large amount of energy to the relatively small ants. Depending on the species, ants can range in size from 1/12 to 1 inch and are usually red or black in color.

While most ants are usually just a nuisance, a few varieties are capable of biting people. Most ant bites cause itching, which may last from a few hours to a few days. These mild reactions are very common and home treatment is often all that is needed to relieve the symptoms. If the bite causes a severe reaction, seek immediate medical attention.

What causes an increase in stinging insects? Mating season’s arrival. As such, stinging insects become more active in our area and across the country. In fact, each year, some 500,000 people are sent to the hospital due to stings from insects such as honey bees, paper wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets. Bee and wasp stings can cause significant reactions, ranging from pain that is localized to serious or potentially fatal conditions.

In order to keep your family healthy and safe from potential stings, it is important to know everything you

What causes mosquitoes to make their presence known? Rising temperatures and a little standing water.

Easily one of the most annoying pests there is, mosquitoes are the most significant and dangerous vector of disease in history and responsible for more human deaths than any other animal. In recent years, the insect’s profile has significantly increased due to

1) Fix leaks in your home and reduce standing water; both of these steps can help control moisture and thereby keep mosquitoes away 2) Seal entry points around windows, doors, and home foundations; any of these spots when untreated are inviting to ants 3) Trim vegetation near your home; thick vegetation may provide nesting places for bees As a reminder, you can always request a FREE home inspection by calling us or by visiting www.trulynolen.com and clicking “Schedule Free Inspection.”

(Oscar Avila-Jimenez is the Manager for Truly Nolen in Naples. His 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 our pest control options, please visit https://www.trulynolen.com/pest-control/ )

Keeping unwanted house guests away, since 1938!

Call Now!

239•494•3544

Receive a FREE inspection and this great offer.

*Applicable to new annual service agreement.

PEST•TERMITE•RODENT•LAWN•INSULATION

JEWISH FEDERATION

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

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

TAKE A LOOK AT TH

ONCE UPON MY MOTHER

THE RING

French Drama with English Subtitles, 102 mins

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

MONDAY, January 26, 2026 • 7 PM

THE STAM

American Document

SUNDAY, Marc

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

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

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

Become a Film Festival Patron!

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

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

Than

www.naplesjewishfilmfestival.com Patron Tickets and Season Passes are now for sale.

Individual Tickets for specific films will be available January 5, 2026.

Presented by: of Greater Naples

JEWISH FEDERATION

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

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

HIS YEAR’S LINEUP:

MP THIEF

MIDAS MAN

THE SEA

tary, English, 103 mins

British Docudrama, English, 112 mins

ch 8, 2026 • 7 PM

MONDAY, March 16, 2026 • 7 PM

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

SUNDAY, March 22, 2026 • 7 PM

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

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

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

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

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

ON STAGE AT

nks to our SPONSORS:

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

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

SENSORY BOOTH AVAILABLE

The film will open with the short documentary A TNP ACADEMY PERFORMANCE T UE SDAY “Making Awareness.”

DEC. 9 The story of two Israeli We are grateful to these businesses and organizations street artists who spread Virtually Yours for their support of the 2019-20 Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival: Greater Naples THE KIZZIE THEATER THE KIZZIE THEATER awareness through their Jewish Book eFestival 2020-21 “Kidnapped from Israel” Celebrate the holidays with Little Women: The Musical.

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

SHOW SPONSORED BY: 72 SEASON PRESENTED BY: lliance TIC

Jewish Book Festival Sponsors RELAXED PERFORMANCE

NOV 19-DEC 21

W C A

ND

DEC 06-DEC 15 Thank You to Our Sponsors* SPONSORED BY:

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

KE TS

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Strengthening our temple, our community and each other

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Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival is presented by:

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

SCAN TO BUY

TICKETS

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14

Fed Star

March 2026

Kosher Dill Pickleball Tournament Fundraiser Set for March 10, 2026

By Bob Koppel, Kosher Dill Pickleball Tournament Chair

G

et ready to serve up some fun for a great cause!

Spaces are filling quickly for the inaugural Kosher Dill Pickleball Tournament Fundraiser, taking place on Tuesday, March 10, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at Sports Challenge America, located on 28120 Race Track Rd, Bonita Springs.

We are also seeking sponsors to help make this event a success. Sponsors will be recognized at the tournament, and support at every level is appreciated:

Join us for a morning of friendly competition, community spirit, and pickleball fun. We look forward to seeing you on the court!

l

a r u g a n I oin the

J

Kosher Dill e

kl

Holocaust survivors - please contact genshoahswfl@hmcec.org to participate in the event.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

For questions about registration or sponsorships, please contact Bob Koppel at potomacdad@gmail.com or Melissa Barr at mbarr@jewish naples.org

Pic

Register for this free commemoration at https://JFGN.regfox.com/yomhashoah26

Questions or More Information

t

Please join us for a special commemoration.

Everyone is invited to attend.

Open to all affiliations.

Register today to secure your spot: https://jfgn.regfox.com/2026kosher-dill-pickle-ball-tournament

This is a great opportunity for individuals or businesses to show their support and gain visibility within the community. Thank you to our sponsors already onboard.

Ba

en

Sunday, April 12, 2026 11:00 AM at Temple Shalom

• Platinum Sponsor: $500 • Gold Sponsor: $250 • Silver Sponsor: $100

a

m

COMMUNITY-WIDE ANNUAL YOM HASHOAH HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE

This exciting, co-ed event is open to players of all skill levels, from first timers to seasoned competitors.

Whether you’re coming to play, cheer, or connect with the community, everyone is welcome. Registration is just $54, making it an affordable and enjoyable way to support the cause while staying active.

ll T o u r n

March 10, 2026

9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Sports Challenge America 28120 Race Track Rd, Bonita Springs, FL

Reserve your spot by March 4. Co-ed Event!

Medals & Prizes to be Awarded Registration Fee of Greater Naples

This program is brought to you by: Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, The Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center, Temple Shalom, Beth Tikvah, GenShoah SWFL, Naples Jewish Congregation, Chabad of Naples, and Jewish Congregation of Marco Island.

$54/player

Sponsorship opportunities available.

Contact Melissa Barr at www.reallygreatsite.com mbarr@jewishnaples.org for details Scan to Register or visit jfgn.regfox.com/2026-kosher-dillpickle-ball-tournament-

March 2026

Fed Star

GREATER NAPLES JEWISH BOOK FESTIVAL www.jewishbookfestival.org

Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival Packs the House

By Robin Mintz, Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival Volunteer Chair

T

quickly, please let Renee know if you can’t make it to a program you’ve reserved. That way, others on the waitlist can join in the fun.

he Naples Jewish Book Festival is on a roll! Each event so far has been near capacity, with audiences eager to hear from the talented authors on this year’s lineup.

Programs have been filled with lively conversation between authors and outstanding moderators, engaging stories and plenty of delicious treats.

A big thank-you goes to the amazing volunteers who keep everything running smoothly and make every event warm and welcoming.

Because events a re f i l l i n g u p

Robin Mintz

This season is shaping up to be something special — a true celebration of books, culture and community.

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Moderator Felicia Anchor (right) engaged author Amy Fish in a meaningful discussion.

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A capacity audience enjoyed the thoughtful conversation between author Lew Paper and moderator Lila Rosenweig.

AT THE HEART OF OUR COMMUNITY LIES A VIBRANT CULINARY Book Festival Volunteers joined the FBI (!) for the Legacy of Lies event. (seated) Dorothy Schwebel, Emily Berkowitz, Jan Goldman; (standing) Susan Pittelman, Robin Mintz, Sue Reiver)

2025-2026

Greater Naples

Jewish BOOK Festival

EXPERIENCE.

of Greater Naples

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16

Fed Star

March 2026

JEWISH FEDERATION

3…2…1… Behind the Scenes of Live Television Book Review

By Carole J Greene

I

f you love what happens behind the scenes of live television, you’ll want to be there on March 6 when the 11th annual Jewish Book Festival welcomes Robert Steinfeld, author of 3…2…1… We’re on the Air. What kinds of shows? Nearly every kind imaginable — each unfolding live, unscripted, and under immense pressure. Over five decades, Steinfeld built a remarkable career directing and producing televised events that demanded split-second decisions, seamless teamwork, and a deep understanding of how to tell a story in real time.

6. Commercial Format: number and length of breaks.

7. Checklist: A list of numbers for cards that the announcers will read, along with the machine on which each video promo exists and its numeric location; production elements such as flashbacks; pictures; all other items the producer has ready to go.

8. Pregame Timing Sheet: Minuteby-minute of what the stadium or arena has scheduled prior to the game’s start. National anthem; lights off or on during introductions; the game’s confirmed starting time.

The memoir chronicles his successful career over five decades as a director and producer of TV broadcasts of games. From humble beginnings covering local far-from-famous teams to his professed favorite job producing for NBC myriad events at three Olympics (1992, 1996, 2004), he shares with readers what he learned from his jobs and from the athletes he was fortunate to know. Yes, the book is replete with personal stories.

It’s a sports fan’s paradise!

Standing With Israel:

An Evening in Support of the IDF

Join us for a meaningful evening featuring Retired Major General Shalom Ben Hanan, Shin Bet Unit (Israel Security Agency), and Matan Falach, wounded combat soldier from the Nahal Brigade.

Free Event, Registration Required Monday, March 9 5:30 – 6:30 PM Location Provided Upon Registration Presented in partnership with Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) & The Nahal Way

Scan to Register or visit jfgn.regfox.com/nahalway

Particularly interesting to me was his succinct d e s c ri pt i o n of Friday, March 6 what a TV sports producer actually does. After read9. Transmission Information: ing the following Tells which company will take (abridged from the signal from the truck and what you’ll find in transmit it for air via satelthe book), I now lite, fiber, internet, or other Robert Steinfeld watch TV sports method. Phone numbers with an informed perspective, and a for key people in case a problem greater admiration for the behindoccurs. the-scenes work done by producers 10. Talent Copy: Cards for talent and directors. I think you will too. to read on the air such as promos or flashbacks.

According to “Steiny,” his nickname 11. Storylines: We research the event to those closest to him in the TV to create stories that help viewers production truck, his “Steiny pack” relate to the players and games. The contains a dozen must-do items for more the production team knows every show. about the athletes and teams — the 1. Production Schedule: the timing big picture — the more viewers will for all events – production meeting, be vested in the show. rehearsals, breaks, airtime.

12. Graphic Sheet: Information pro2. Advance Rundown: this piece vided while on screen, divided into will be shot in the booth 90 minutes “Lower thirds” (televised on lower before air and fed to the studio to third of the screen), “Full page” help promote the show. (takes up most of the screen), “Side 3. Open Rundown: subjects of talk slabs” (occupy the left or right at top of show, outlined for talent side), and “Chunks” (screened on and crew. lower left or right).

4. Halftime Rundown: details of what will be produced in each Whew! Managing all this with segment. aplomb is what it takes to win ten 5. Run of Show: what sponsored Sports Emmy Awards. elements and creative pieces will run during the game and out of Come to the festival and hear more commercial breaks. from Steiny himself!

Welcome to the 11th Annual Naples Jewish Book Festival Jewish Greater are excited to present the following authors for your in-person enjoyment. Please visit BOOK Festival We JEWISHBOOKFESTIVAL.ORG to learn about becoming a Patron or to purchase individual tickets.

2025-2026

Greater Naples

All events take place at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

3..2..1…We’re on the Air

by Robert Steinfeld

We Would Never

by Tova Mirvis

Louis Graveraet Kaufman

Friday, March 6 1 PM • $30

Tuesday, March 17 1 PM • $30

Monday, March 30 1 PM • $30

Sponsored by MCA

Carole King

by Jane Eisner

by Ann Berman

Monday, April 13 1 PM • $30 Exclusively Sponsored by Gulfshore Playhouse

JBF Patrons (as of January 27, 2026)

PLATINUM Susan Ain Patti Bloom Rosalee Bogo Karen Budnick

Paul Budnick Norma Carl Shelley Einhorn Judith FinerFreedman

Ellen Frankel Peter Gignac Jeremy Freedman Lisa Gorman Myra Friedman Larry Israelite Nancy Garfien Nancy Kahn Brenda Gignac Marsha Karp

SILVER 2 Anonymous Howard Agranat Sheila Agranat Diane Aronson Phyllis Barolsky Stacey Baum Emily Berkowitz Harriet Berneman Louis Berneman

Mark Blaskey Penni Blaskey Cipora Brown Peggy Brown Barbara Bullock Deena Caplan Ellen Chaney Marcia Cohodes Debbie Cooper Ann Cowen

Patricia Gage Carole Greene Terri David Arline Kaplan Barbara Druckman Susan Garelick Sherry Greenfield Bobbie Katz David Feinstein Nancy Garfinkel Andree Haas Helene Koenig Maureen Feinstein Priscilla Gerber Ronna Hain Deborah Kohler Arnan Finkelstein Cheryl Ginsburg Fred Heldman Toby Kosloff Marlene Finkelstein Cindi Goldfine Patti Heldman Gracia Kuller Eloyse Fisher Melvin Goldfine Carol Hirsch Debbie Laites Louise Forman Jan Goldman Susan Horowitz Gail Lanznar Spencer Forman Donna Goldstein Wendy Israelite Judi Lazan Madeline Foster Diane Goldstein Judy Isserlis Dale Lazar

Lin Klein Arlene Litow Fran Kroll Andy Mintz Anna Levin Robin Mintz Laurie Lieberman Lew Paper Stephen Light Jackie Paulson

Susan Pittelman Estelle Price Stuart Price Nathaniel Ritter Susan Ritter

Sarah Rockler Elaine Rosen Ellaine Rosen Judy Roth Marc Saperstein

Jane Schiff Arlene Sobol Anne Schuchman Susan Sokolov Ilana Seligman Janet Solot Arlene Shapiro Joyce Steckman Donald Shapiro Phyllis Strome

Deborah Waranch Jeffrey Waranch

Lynn Lazar Dana Lefkowitz Bettye Leibowitz Linda Lerner Hilda Levine Leda Lubin Linda Lupin Marci Margolis Anne Melko Karen Moss

Karen Scheck Carol Smoler Marla Osgood Anne Schnesel Barbara Steckler Rick Osgood Deborah Schreier Sharon Stein Jeani Park Steve Podolsky Gale Schulman Dana Strull Ben Post Harriet Schweitzer Fritzi Thorner Mark Shiffman Heidi Thorner Susan Rabin Charles Siegel Joyce Toub Alice Richter Lori Siegel Allison Tucker Mae Riefberg Martin Silverstein Jacqueline Urso Sarah Rockler Nancy Schachtman Gail Smith Jay Weintraub

Laurie Weiss Joan Werhane Barbara Winthrop Leona Wreschner Russell Yale Susan Yale Judy Zahn Cindy Zelby

Merrill Hassenfeld June Kruger Marguerite Rubin Barbara Simon Tim Broms Linda Miller Linda Dukatz Molly Getnick Iris Podolsky BRONZE Jean Haven Linda Russell Barbara Kushnir Lynn Miller Nancy Brother Linda Simon Janett Edelberg Susan Getnick Steve Podolsky Anonymous Lee Henson Elayna Latsky Ann Brown Roberta Miller Ellen Edelstein Heidi Gilbert Terri Polacheck Elaine Samuels Ruth Simon Andrea Abel Stewart Brownstein Susan Elfman Rochelle Miller Barry Rabin Gary Sanders Lisa Lauber Rosalie Slansky Howard Gilbert Karen Herbst Leslie Aderson Sandy Burton Sallyann Endleman Marlene Ginsberg Deborah Hermalyn Barbara Lefkowitz Stuart Miller Karen Sanders Elaine Soffer Nancy Rabin Lynda Adler Elizabeth Girardat Burton Hirsch Michelle Mills Laurie Sandler Helene Lerner Gail Solomon Jeff Rader Doris Adlestein Barbara Carlstrom David Epstein Hilda Glazer Linda Hirsch Tom Carlstrom Pam Epstein Marsha Moranz Wendy Rader Melanie Sandler Hal Stein Arlene Levin Sheryl Affrime Renee Glickman Sunny Hochberg Howard Levin Jeanie Charness Karen Ezrine Gail Morris Peter Sandler Jennie Stein Sandy Randall Thais Alcalay Jacqueline Chizever Leslie Feldman Mark Goetz Ronna Hochman Stacy Levin Erica Morse Elaine Rapoport Sandra Sanfilippo Ilene Steiner Sudy Altholz Geraldine Feldman Tricia Gold Jan Hoffman Darlene Muller Estelle Rauch Sheila Schneider Barbara Stivers Martin Levine Nancy Armocida Nan Ciralsky Richard Felzer Diane Clarke Diane Goldberg Mitchell Hoffman Evelyn Lipschutz Arthur Murphy John Reiches Carole Schwartz Jim Storch Angie Aronoff Marsha Goldstein Andrew Ichel Rosetta Felzer Geri Cohen Laura Murphy Dorothy Schwebel Marilyn Storch Jay Lipschutz Alan Reinberg Patti Badiner Rochelle Jacob Jacqueline Lipton Saranne Murray Nancy Reinberg Stuart Schweitzer June Streisand Marsha Barsman Rochelle Cohen Susan Feuerman Carol Goode Hannah Goodman Jeanne Kagin Mindy Nadell Millie Sernovitz Denise Sultan Debbie Lurie Sue Reiver Wynne Baruch Lynn Katz Danzig Paula Filler Larry Goodman Doree Kalfen Marilyn Davidson Ronald Filler Ann Swartz Helene Naimon Deedee Remenick Jane Shaw Phyllis Luts Lea Bendes Rochelle Goodman Judith Kargher Barbara Ritter Shira Swartz James Fine Ian Noy Dina Shein Shirley Lutz Natalie Berman Judy Dawson Marilyn Shesko Marla Taub Monica Goodwin Charlene Kerner Paula Maisel Ellen Rodwick Carol Orloff Minda Bernberg Sherry Delinko Marcia Fine Ellen Gordon Sandy Diamond Phyllis Fine Suzanne Tolpin Judith Kessel Barbara Ostrolenk William Rodwick Ricki Shine Robert Maisel Rose Bernstein Lila Rosenweig Julie Shlensky Helene Gordon Carolyn Kimmel Marcy Malc Elyse Dickman Lisa Freund Lynn Valinetz Ann Packman Jill Binder Elaine Marcus Michael Shlensky Joan Van Berg Gloria Dion Susan Gallagher Barrie Graham Lori Kleiman David Packman Marilyn Ross Ellen Blank Jeffrey Margolis Barbara Paganelli Midge Rozen Arlene Griff Iris Shur Gayle Dorio Ann Varsano Phyllis Garon Susan Koeppel Jamie Blatter Wendy Grindstaff Ruth-Lynn Kosiner Sherri Melamut Karen Pam Arnie Rubin Gay Silberg Joan Vazakas Ellen Bohn Gitlitz Benjamin Dubin Ken Getnick Susie Kravetz Sheila Mesulam Joel Pittelman Lynn Rubin Cathy Silver Larry Dukatz Lisa Vogel Michael Getnick Elaine Griver Paula Brody

Gail Volk Sara Waldstein Leslie Wasserman Marianne Wassmer Jill Weil Sydelle Weinberger Suellen Weiner Ellen Weisberg Jack Wiadro Nancy Wiadro Phyllis Winski Lauri B Wishner Deborah Wyman Cathy Zacks Joni Zalasky Cindy Zive Shelley Zucker

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Temple Shalom ee book voucher(s) ü 1 2 $500 ee: x chicken   vegetarian Patron Benefits: $360 $225 Strengthening our temple, our community and each other $40 ___ = salmon $_____ after2November 251 voucher(s) ert:  pastrywith Check the events you will be attending for easy reference: tron event an Tickets vegetarian ü ü toallfruit 12author eventsTBA (a $320 value) Visit the official Festival website at www.jewishbookfestival.org for more ü ü ü Tue, November 5 @ 7:00pm - HN Elyssa Friedland & SPA EPIPHANY SALON ent with an author TBA traCopy luncheon event ticket for guest information on the authors and their books, event updates and a printable order ü ü the youGross will&beSteve attending events ü 14700 Tamiami Trail • Naples Mon,N November 11 @Check 1:00pm - NCC Andrew Israel for easy reference: of Lori Gottlieb’s book ü Visit the ü official ü Festival website atnotwww.jewishbookfestival.org for more e p i p h a n y s a l o n - s p a . c o m Tue, November 5 @ 7:00pm - HN form. We Have questions thatto have been answered in this insert? Send an email are grateful these businesses and organizations Elyssa Friedland cheon event ticket for guest

Mon, December 2 @ 11:30am - HN Alana Newhouse ü DEBORAH srael $18 x ___ = $_____ ($25 at the door) on the and2019-20 their event updates and aBook printable order FastPassTamiami & separateTrail check-inN., Naples ü information fedstar18@gmail.com or call books, theGreater Federation office atJewish 239.263.4205. ü üauthors Andrew Gross & Steve Israel ZVIBLEMAN for to their support of the Naples Festival: Mon, December 9 @ 7:00pm - HN Barry, Mansbach & Zweibel Mon, November 11 @ 1:00pm - NCC : 5111 ook Festival Patron Levels and Benefits m Recognition Jenoff $18 x ___ = $_____ Have questions that have not been answered in this insert? Send an email Thu, December 19 @ 7:00pm - HN Adam Chandler & Stephen Silverman Mon, December 2 @ 11:30am - HN Alana Newhouse in Federation Star ü “ form. ü ü Island $18Naples: x ___of = $_____ ($25 atNaples the991 door) ton 5111 Tamiami Trail N., egation Marco Island: Winterberry Drive, Marco Check thereference: events you will be attending for easy reference: Check the events you will be attending for easy Wed, January 8 @ 1:00pm - TS Melanie Benjamin & Pam Jenoff to fedstar18@gmail.com or call the Federation office at 239.263.4205.

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Wed, February 5 @ 7:30pm - TS January Lori of Gottlieb ü6340 üWoods ü nference Center: 1455 Pine Ridge Road, Naples Strengthening our temple, our community and each other $18 x ___ =4630 $_____ “Naples Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival is Wed, presented by: mple Shalom: Pine Road, ktlieb’s Hersch $18Ridge x ___ = $_____ Mon, December 9 @ 7:00pm5-@ HN7:00pm Barry,- Mansbach & Zweibel February 26 @ 1:00pm - TSJanuary Bob Mankoff & Butnick/Oppenheimer Tue, November HN Elyssa Friedland wish Congregation: 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples Mon, 13 @ 1:00pm - NJC Marra B. Gad & Angela Himsel Free book Pine voucher(s) m: 4630 Ridge Road, Naples book 2 ü“ 1 ü ü 19 @ 7:00pm - HN Adam Chandler & Stephen Silverman Wed, March 4 @ 1:00pm - JCMI Jack Fairweather & Jack Hersch halom: 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples Consider purchasing a Patron Festival Package. Even if you can’t make it to all Thu, December Mon, November 11 @ 1:00pm - NCC Andrew Gross & Steve Israel Tue, January 28 @ 7:00pm - HN Ken Sutak & Elizabeth Weitzman $18 x ___ = $_____ rate check-in Patron event with an author ü TBA“ ü 8 @ 1:00pm - TS Melanie Benjamin & Pam Jenoff Wed, March 11 @ 7:30pm - TS Josh Frank üü 12 events, ü you can gift your tickets to friends, colleagues and family members. Wed, January Mon, December 2 @ 11:30am - HN Alana Newhouse Wed, February 5 @ 7:30pm - TS Lori Gottlieb wish Book Festival!

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Schedule of Events:

Schedule of Events:

Multi-Author Events

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18

Fed Star

March 2026

JEWISH FEDERATION

The Banker Who Built an Empire

By Carole J Greene

W

hen you attend the March 30 Jewish Book Festival event at 1:00 p.m., you will become acquainted with one of the most influential and fascinating tycoons in early 20th-century business, especially in banking. Author Ann Berman will introduce you to Louis Graveraet Kaufman, hereafter known as LG, whose resume of accomplishments is extraordinary.

March 11 at 7:00 PM Beatlemania Comes to Naples Live with The Fab Three

After more than six decades following their meteoric rise to fame in the early 1960’s, The Beatles remain as one of the most popular, if not the most popular, rock and roll bands in history. Even after all this time, their music is still widely played all over the world. Beatles tribute bands number in the hundreds, and in 2028 a four-part biopic on the Fab Four will appear in theaters. It seems their popularity only continues to grow with time. Come take a walk down Memory Lane as our own Ken Brown, Frank Muller, and Randy Solomon, who are members of the Alta Rockers Band offer a live retrospective of Beatles hits over the years, complete with back stories of each song.

Everyone Invited.

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

Born to a Jewish father and an Indigenous mother in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP), LG’s first accomplishment was to overcome h i s a n c e s t r y.

U n d e rs ta n d i n g Monday, March 30 that to succeed in a conservaReaders of this book will tive Midwestern repeatedly encounter LG’s arena, he could lifelong modus operandi: as not be considered the consummate dealmaker, Jewish or Indigehe would discover an oppornous, he joined the tunity, muster his connections, “officially gentile” then covertly take the steps Masonic Lodge necessary to attain his objecAnn Berman of his hometive. He followed this design to town, Marquette — that city’s veradd more banks to his burgeoning list, sion of a gentlemen’s club — and to play an essential role in the takequickly rose through the ranks of over and restructuring of General the brotherhood.

Motors, to build the country’s most spectacular Adirondack-style lodge, Soon after gaining self-confidence and to finance the construction of the by making important contacts in the Empire State Building.

Lodge, LG started his career in banking. His older brother, Nathan, urged Much of the book dwells on the him to join the staff of the Marquette luxurious lodge, Granot Loma, the County Savings Bank, starting as a concocted name of his twenty-sixmessenger boy. LG’s discovery of the thousand-square-foot palace on banking world unleashed talents and Lake Superior. GR from Graveraet; intelligence he did not know he posAN from daughter Ann; OT from sessed, and he rapidly rose to be vice father-in-law Otto Young; LO from president of that bank. It was the son Louis, MA from daughter Marie first of many banks LG would lead Joan. (Subsequent children were left and formed the foundation of his out. They eventually had a total of remarkable career. He would eveneight.) This lodge was the scene of tually be referred to as the father of splendid parties, often with fifty or branch banking. more well-heeled guests, all delivered by palatial private rail car.

Soon, directorships of several UP railroads and numerous mining What happened to the Graveraet companies added to his income legacy I shall leave for you to disfrom banking, making LG and his cover as you read this meticulously wife Marie among the wealthiest researched and delightfully preof UP families. It did not hurt that sented biography. Not exactly “rags Marie came from an affluent, presto riches,” since LG married well, but tigious Chicago family. Memberwhether it’s a “rags to riches and back ship in a Christian church further to rags” story, you’ll have to find out distanced LG from the designation for yourself. Perhaps the author will as Jewish. tell you at the event.

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

March 2026

JEWISH FEDERATION

Fed Star

19

Beejhy Barhany shares Beta Israel journey From Ethiopia to Israel, Harlem

By Alan Scher Zagier, JCRC Director

O

n Sunday, Jan. 11, Stein IOC Speaker Series’ attendees were treated to a captivating conversation with Beejhy Barhany, a native of Ethiopia who, with her family, fled violence in the African nation when she was four, walking with a caravan of hundreds to Sudan before ultimately migrating to the Jewish State at seven.

She would later live on a kibbutz as a teen and serve in the Israeli Defense Forces before deciding to make her home in New York, where she owns and operates Tsion Café, a Harlem-based vegan restaurant whose flavors pay homage to her shared culinary roots in Ethiopia and Israel.

Beejhy Barhany signs copies of her book

Myra Benedikt, Beejhy Barhany and Alan Scher Zagier

After her talk, Beejhy signed copies of her debut cookbook, Gursha: Timeless Recipes for Modern Kitchens, from Ethiopia, Israel, Harlem and beyond, as attendBeejhy Barhany at IOC Speaker Series ees got to sample several celebration is scheduled for Sundishes prepared by IOC volunteers day, April 19, 2-4 p.m. at the Nina based on recipes from her book.

Iser Jewish Cultural Center. We will share more details in the April Fed Save the Date — Star. Timely updates will also follow Yom HaAtzma’ut by email and online.

Our annual Yom HaAtzma’ut

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THE CARLISLE NAPLES

Please call for a tour and visit the events page on our website.

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20

March 2026

Fed Star

JEWISH FEDERATION

Israel and Overseas Committee March Speaker Series

By Alan Scher Zagier, JCRC Director

T

he new month brings a pair of insightful programs to the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, starting with leaders of Israel’s oldest university and then followed by an American think tank expert who specializes in Israeli policy.

On Monday, March 2 at 4 p.m., the Israel and Overseas Committee will host a special screening of Technion 10², an 80-minute documentary film exploring the pivotal role played by Technion, Israel Institute

of Technology, a 114-year-old prestigious public research university located in Haifa.

The university’s storied history is pivotal to the development and growth of the State of Israel, from building the nation’s infrastructure during its infancy to defending Israel through times of war to creating the vibrant ecosystem of scientific and technological innovation we know today.

Following the film, we will be joined for an interactive discussion by

Technion President Uri Sivan, a physicist, and by Technion Vice President Lihi Zelnik-Manor, an engineer, computer scientist and mathematician.

The program begins at 4 p.m. — an earlier start time than initially announced — to ensure we are finished before sundown and the start of Purim that evening.

On Tuesday, March 24, at 5:30 p.m., the final Stein IOC Speaker Series event will feature Alex Lederman,

a senior policy and communications associate at the Israel Policy Forum. The Forum is an American Jewish organization that works for a negotiated two-state outcome to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through advocacy, education and policy research.

There is no cost to attend either event, but advance registration i s re q u e s t e d a t w w w. j e w i s h naples.org/israel-and-overseascommittee.

Purim, PJ Library, and the Power of Joy

By Hailey Dalby

I

n the heart of the joy-filled month of Adar, PJ Library of Greater Naples is delighted to celebrate the holiday of Purim; a time when things are not always as they seem.

One of Purim’s most enduring themes is nahafoch hu, the idea that everything can be turned upside down or backwards. In the Megillah we read that the expected order of events is flipped, sorrow becomes celebration, and vulnerability turns into strength. It is a holiday that invites us to embrace levity, laughter, and a little bit of silliness, all while remembering that joy itself can be a powerful act.

At PJ L i b r a r y, Purim is a wonderful opportunity to lean into this playful spirit with our families. We revel in the happiness of Adar by reading Purim-themed PJ Library books, such as Purim Masquerade by Samara Q. Klein, and A Persian Princess by Barbara

Diamond Goldin, that explore bravery, kindness, and surprise. Children delight in costumes and groggers, while adults can appreciate the deeper message of the holiday: that perspective matters and sometimes seeing the world from an upsidedown angle helps us better understand one another. Purim reminds us not to take ourselves too seriously and to make room for generosity, community, and shared celebration.

PJ Library provides the opportunity for Jewish children to receive free books from birth through 12 years old!

Expertly curated Jewish stories are delivered monthly to each enrollee.

Books are chosen based on each child’s age, as well as the current holiday and season, but PJ Library is more than just books!

Our local PJ Library community gathers for meaningful, accessible,

*Mention this ad for 15% off of your first order

and joyful programs throughout the year.

It is never too late to attend your first event.

S ta y c o n n e c te d by scanning the QR code to receive monthly PJ e-blasts which provide a snapshot of current PJ activities, and other fun information, and connect with us on Facebook (Facebook.com/ PJLibraryNaplesFL)!

We are deeply grateful for every family, grandparent, and caregiver who helps make Jewish storytelling a multigenerational experience.

G ra n d p a re nts a re warmly invited to enroll to receive their own free PJ Library book to share with their grandchildren — because some traditions are best passed down one story at a time.

For more information, call 239-2634205 or email info@jewishnaples. org.

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Tel: 239-793-4400 | mattisinc@hotmail.com 3635 Tamiami Trail North, Naples, Florida 34103

Stay connected. Visit jewishnaples.org

March 2026

JEWISH FEDERATION

Fed Star

21

New BBYO Board, New Fun!

By Hailey Dalby

B

BYO is the preemifocused on connection, nent pluralistic Jewgrowth, and meaningful ish teen organization Jewish experiences. for grades eight through 12.

The following are words With chapters across North America, BBYO brings from our newly installed together young people board members: from around the world to “I am excited to continue connect with their heritage, learning leadership skills, develop leadership skills, and help our new board and build lifelong friendHailey Dalby ships. This season brings members navigate being a blend of fresh perspectives and leaders and continue to grow our experienced leadership, with one new chapter” – MJ (N’Siah) board member joining three returning “I am looking forward to growing our teens. Together, this group is ready to guide the chapter through a semester BBYO community in Naples, creating

memories and making an impact” – Noah (S’Gan) “I am excited to help impact our Jewish community and create more opportunities for teens to get involved!” – Mira (Morah) “I’m so excited to spend my last semester in high school doing something meaningful: positively impacting our local Jewish community!” – Mimi (Gizborit)

monthly BBYO e-blasts featuring a snapshot of upcoming activities and other fun information.

BBYO offers opportunities for every interest and comfort level.

If this sounds like the place for you, please email info@jewishnaples. org to begin your BBYO journey.

Scholarships to attend BBYO conventions and s u m m e r p ro g ra m s a re a l s o a va i l a b l e through both Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and the Temple Shalom Men’s Club.

Families and teens are encouraged to scan the QR code to receive

Spring 2026 Board Members:

N’Siah: MJ Solomon

S’Gan: Noah Tsipursky

Morah: Mira Conte

Gizborit: Mimi Goldberg

OUR 33rd SEASON!

Young Jewish Professionals

By Hailey Dalby

C

alling all 30 (somethings), and 40 (somethings)! Are you looking for a Jewish home in Southwest Florida? Missing your Jewish bestie, and want to get together for a Nosh?

The Tribe, formerly Jewish Young Professionals of Southwest Florida, is a group for all! Jewish Federation of Greater Naples is excited to grow a thriving home for all young Jewish individuals in Southwest Florida! Historically, this group gathers for Shabbat as well as various outings and events throughout Southwest Florida.

NAPLES COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA SEASON 2026

March 21 Germanfest

If this sounds like a group for you, please email info@jewish naples.org.

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

Grieg: Piano concerto in A minor, Op. 16, Allegro Celine Edira, Piano Mozart: Magic Flute Overture Wagner: Tannhäuser Overture Schumann: Symphony No. 4 Upcoming Event: April 11 – French Suites

Artistic Director Dr. Alvin Ho

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

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

22

Fed Star

March 2026

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

MEN’S CULTURAL ALLIANCE VOICES

Doors Are Meant to Be Open

By Rabbi Frank Muller

M

y wife, Darlene, and I were in Lerwick, Scotland over the summer. Walking down the town’s main shopping promenade, we came across a shop with an Israeli flag in the window with a sign next to it, “Bring Them Home Now,” referring of course to the hostages held captive in Gaza. We were intrigued.

shot for showing up at the wrong house.

We had not gotten very fa r w h e n we h e a rd the front door open. A woman called out, “Can I help you?” I thought to myself, “This is it. Something bad is going to hapRabbi Frank Muller pen.” And then she asked us a question which totally stunned me. “Would you like to come

The shop, however, did not appear to be a normal commercial establishment. Perhaps it was an office, or even a museum of some kind.

Although there were no signs on the front door, we decided to venture inside. Standing in what appeared to be a foyer, with a hat and coat rack in the corner, and boots on the floor, I suddenly realized that this wasn’t a shop or an office or even a museum — this was someone’s home! Panicked, I told my wife that we needed to leave immediately before something bad happened, like being arrested for breaking and entering, or God forbid, worse. I had read too many news stories about people back home being

March 25 at 5:30 PM The MCA Beach Party at Lowdermilk Beach

in for some tea?”

My wife and I were floored! This would never happen in the good ol’ US of A. Reticent but appreciative, we entered the house and met the most delightful couple, from Israel no less! Kareene and Gil, residents of Tel

Kareene and Gil's Front Door

Kareene and Gil Aviv, had visited Lerwick a few years before and loved the city so much that they bought the loft where they now spend every summer. Gil was in the tech industry and on occasion traveled to Naples on business. Like me, he plays guitar and leads a Beatles cover band in Israel. Could the world be any smaller? Gil and Kareene were more than gracious hosts, and we exchanged contact information before saying goodbye. This chance encounter ended up being one of the highlights of our entire trip.

Upon returning home I reflected on this chance encounter and realized how sad it is that the hospitality and kindness that this lovely couple extended to us, without even knowing that we were fellow Jews, would rarely, if ever, happen in America.

Unfortunately, we live in a society where suspicion and hostility towards the stranger is the norm. I am fully aware that you can’t be too careful these days. We live in an atmosphere of distrust of anyone we don’t know personally. But what will become

Bring your friends and family to Lowdermilk Beach to join your fellow MCA'ers for an afternoon (and evening) of food and fun. Bring your own favorite food, beverages, and games.

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

of us if basic standards of human decency are allowed to collapse in an atmosphere of fear and loathing of the Other? Wouldn’t the world be a much kinder and gentler place if people could just open their doors, and by extension their hearts, to our fellow earthly sojourners?

Human beings are created in God’s image, meaning every person has some divinity in them, and by extension every person has the capacity to act in a Godlike manner towards others. It’s a sad commentary on the state of our country that we can’t open the doors to our homes to everyone that comes knocking. But perhaps we can do more to be open to others by offering a kind word, a friendly gesture, or an act of compassion to everyone we encounter.

Perhaps we can indeed do something to change our world, one mitzvah at a time.

Rabbi Frank Muller is Director of Pastoral and Spiritual Care at Temple Shalom in Naples and is Rabbi Emeritus of Congregation Ohev Beth Sholom in Youngstown, OH, where he served for 25 years from 1995-2020.

He has also served the Chautauqua Hebrew Congregation at the Chautauqua Institution in western New York state for the past 20 summers.

Rabbi Muller and his wife, Darlene, have resided in Naples since 2014.

THE MISSI N

...of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples is to enhance and enrich the quality of Jewish life by recognizing and supporting the charitable, educational, humanitarian and social service needs of the Jewish community locally, nationally, overseas and in the state of Israel.

March 2026

JEWISH FEDERATION WOMEN’S CULTURAL ALLIANCE

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www.wcanaples.org | 518-852-3440

2026 Volunteer Expo a Resounding Success Where Caring Meets Community

By Susan Pittelman, WCA Publicity Chair

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olunteer – a welcoming word offering infinite opportunities!

We are fortunate to be living in Greater Naples — often described as “Paradise.” Members of our Jewish community certainly recognize that privilege, and many feel a strong need to “give back.” Whether volunteering independently or through organized group efforts, our community consistently demonstrates its commitment to Tikkun Olam – repairing the world.

Because WCA believes deeply in supporting the broader Southwest Florida community and knows firsthand how vital volunteers are to nonprofit organizations, we have sponsored a Volunteer Community Expo for several years. This event provides nonprofits with a platform to share their missions and connect with potential volunteers. This year, MCA and Jewish Federation of Greater Naples joined WCA as co-sponsors, expanding the Expo’s reach and impact.

Ruth Anne Lippitt said, “I am a snowbird and miss my volunteer work. I talked to several agencies and will decide where I want to put my efforts.”

On Friday afternoon, Jan. 16, the 2026 Community Volunteer Expo was held at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. Twenty-nine nonprofit agencies from Collier and Lee Counties participated, welcoming approximately 150 community members who came to learn about volunteer opportunities. Six agencies participated in the Expo for the first time.

WCA Co-president Darlene Muller remarked, “WCA is proud to cosponsor this year’s Community Volunteer Expo. Donating time and energy to benefit worthwhile organizations in Greater Naples is our way of giving back to this beautiful community we are so privileged to live in.”

Les Nizin, a past president of MCA who greeted attendees at the door of Schiff Hall, shared how pleased he

WCA Co-presidents Debbie Lurie and Darlene Muller with past Expo chair Linda Simon, invaluable Expo assistant Ann Cowen and Expo chair Linda Hyde. was that MCA is now a co-sponsor and noted the increased presence of MCA members at the Expo. As chair of MCA Volunteer Activities, he said he was also scouting new opportunities MCA might offer its members.

Attendees came to the Expo for many reasons. Barbara Kay, who joined WCA in October and lives in Punta Gorda, said, “I want to feel worthwhile and help others, rather than just taking care of myself.”

Christine Isaacs came to the Expo seeking volunteer opportunities on behalf of a neighbor who was not able to attend, appreciating that each organization provided helpful informational materials.

Participating agencies expressed gratitude to WCA for the Expo. Sandra Dee Monson, representing NCH, emphasized how essential volunteers are: before COVID, NCH had 1,400 volunteers; today that number has dropped to 500-600. “That’s why I’m here – to recruit.” she said.

opportunity to talk about our work.

The conversations are meaningful, the questions asked are insightful, and the sense of community in the room is palpable.” Elizabeth also expressed appreciation that WCA is providing volunteers monthly.

Several agencies also highlighted the Expo’s networking value. PACE Coordinator Diana Cruz said her organization participates not only to recruit volunteers but also to strengthen community connections and raise awareness of their programs and events. Representatives Anne Stavely and Nicole Luque from Champions for Learning added that the Expo provides a valuable opportunity for agencies to connect with one another.

As I was leaving the Expo, I passed a woman heading back into the building carrying a large stack of fluffy

towels. She had returned home to collect them after learning from the Humane Society representative that towels were urgently needed.

That small act perfectly captured the spirit of the day: When people learn where help is needed, they respond.

Both WCA and MCA offer meaningful opportunities to serve the community. WCA members volunteer monthly at Café of Life, preparing, plating and serving meals — often the only hot meal of the day for those they serve — and recently began monthly shifts at the Harry Chapin Food Bank. MCA members volunteer weekly with Habitat for Humanity and monthly at the Meals of Hope Food Pantry.

It’s never too soon or too small to start giving back!

Jessica Goodall, founder of Eva’s Closet & Foundation, which supports children and families living in poverty, shared that she discovered dedicated volunteers at a previous Expo and returned this year hoping to do the same.

Deborah Lynn Lagen of the Baker Senior Center Naples said they always have good luck at the Expo.

They meet people and that often translates into new volunteers! WCA member Phyllis Barofsky helped staff the Senior Center table.

Elizabeth Lewis, Major Gifts Officer for the Harry Chapin Food Bank, noted that most people don’t realize the extent of food insecurity; 30 percent of the food the organization collects goes to Collier County. She stated, “It is truly a pleasure meeting so many people and having the

Snowbirds Karen and Curt Posner stopped to talk with Jessica Goodall of Eva’s Closet & Foundation. Curt said,” We have time on our hands.

It’s time to do things for others.”

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March 2026

2026 Fed Star Join March us for the Jewish Federation’s

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Annual Meeting & Awards Celebration SUNDAY, MARCH 22, 2026, 1 - 3 P.M.

Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center | Free and open to the community

COMMUNITY FOCUS

March 2026

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Every Story Matters Erin Blankenship President & CEO

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t the start of 2001, The Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center was born out of a middle school classroom project.

Today, our Museum is a thriving cultural institution and a beacon of hope for Southwest Florida. Over the past 25 years, we have impacted almost 1,000,000 individuals, teaching the lessons of the Holocaust to inspire action against hatred and to promote mutual respect. We do this through our commitment to preserve history with accuracy, care, and integrity, and by sharing that history through the stories of individuals who experienced it.

As the number of survivors and witnesses continues to decline, protecting their stories has become urgent — stories like that of Renee Fritz (nee Schwalb) who survived the Holocaust in a Belgian convent, under a false identity. The Museum is a steward of

Communion Veil exhibit her testimony and her communion veil. Renee’s experience speaks not only to her resilience and courage as a survivor, but also of the goodness of strangers who risked their lives to hide her.

The Museum also preserves the stories of Hella Wartski (nee Kaufman) and other survivors of AuschwitzBirkenau. Hella’s testimony is available in our galleries for visitors to hear

the truth about what life was like in Auschwitz and concentration camps.

On exhibit at the Museum, you’ll also find the Certificate of Incarceration from the International Refugee Organization that helps tell the story of Joel Mest, a survivor of the Lodz ghetto, Auschwitz-Birkenau, and the Dachau sub-camp Kaufering. These stories and more are safeguarded at our Museum to ensure that history is taught accurately and responsibly.

For 25 years, the Museum has served as a trusted steward of Holocaust history, preserving survivor testimony and artifacts with care and integrity, and now, more than 80 years since the end of WWII, saving these stories is more important than ever.

The Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center is still collecting the evidence of survivors’ and witnesses’ experiences. If you are a survivor or the descendant of a survivor and have ever considered donating original materials to our Museum, the time is now when those who know the stories and history of those materials are still here to share them.

We collect and preserve photographs, documents like diaries and correspondence, three-dimensional artifacts like toys or ritual materials, and textiles like clothing or armbands. Using best practices, the Museum cares for these items and more to ensure they can be shared with future generations to tell the stories of individuals who suffered or died in the Holocaust.

We are still interviewing survivors too. The world needs to hear their stories and our Museum will continue to record testimonies while we still can. If you are a survivor and would like to record your testimony or donate materials, please reach out

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

Hella with Manatee students at 239-263-9200 or by email (info@ hmcec.org).

As Holocaust survivor Abel Herzberg said, “There were not six million Jews murdered; there was one murder, six million times.” At the Museum, we want to make personal connections with those

who visit and are impacted by our programs, connecting one person who experienced the Holocaust with one person alive today. It’s that personal connection that builds empathy and leads to responsibility and action. Your stories help the Museum inspire the next generation of Upstanders.

You’re invited to a special evening to celebrate the Museum’s

Triumph Dinner

Remembering the Past to Inspire the Future

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

Visit HMCEC.org or call 239-263-9200

to purchase sponsorships or for more information

Honoring

2026 Triumph Award

Rob Nossen Holocaust Survivor and Founding Museum Patron

2026 Humanitarian Award

Paula S. Apsell Emmy Award-Winning Producer of PBS NOVA and filmmaker of “Resistance: They Fought Back”

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March 2026

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COMMUNITY FOCUS

Music and Mass Murder

By Ida Margolis and Shelley Leib, GenShoah Co-Chairs

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here are any and Ullman connumber of tinued to comcontradicpose for a total tory events that of 2 3 wo rks . were part of the He was also a N a z i o n s l a u g ht reviewer of against the Jewmusical events ish people. One of in the camp and those is the purpromoted other Ida Margolis and Shelley Leib poseful presence musical talents, of music at the concentration camps. including the librettist Peter Kien to How does it fit into the propaganda create an opera that was rehearsed machine enacted during the war? in the camp. The production was How did the Nazis use it and how did cancelled because the "hero" was the prisoners use it. too similar to Hitler. Both men were transported to Auschwitz and murMusic has many attributes for both dered in 1944. the maker and the listener. There are many examples of musical instruTo the Germans, music is a cultural ments brought into the camps and tradition with a long history of musicomposers who responded to their cians and composers of which they despair by creating music. As an are proud. Mix that with the Nazi example, performers and composdetermination to eliminate anyers in Theresienstadt did not let the thing that included Jews and you extreme conditions deprive them of get to their use of laws and propatheir passions and talents. ganda to erase Jewish influence on their cultural institutions. Among the German-Jews in the music realm are Mendelssohn (19th century), Gustav Mahler, Bruno Walter (20th), and Daniel Barenboim (present). They all represented Germany on the world stage until irrational German antisemitism declared that they didn't. There is no way to determine how many pieces were created and/or played in concentration camps. A few hundred incomplete scores have been found at Auschwitz.

Viktor Ullmann was deported to Theresienstadt on September 1942 from Prague. There was an "Administration of Leisure Activities" in this showcase or propaganda camp

Abby Heyer, a journalist for CBC news radio, shares an interview with Leo Geyer. He is a British composer and conductor who is restoring, completing, and performing music pulled from the ashes at Auschwitz

that was written by members of a Holocaust prisoner orchestra. Heyer's interview is available online at www. cbc.ca/radio/asithappens. A documentary British TV film about Geyer's work, "The Lost Music of Auschwitz", was shown in 2025.

The Auschwitz orchestra is known to have "performed" for prisoners as they arrived, as they marched to the crematoria or to work, or lined up for roll call. They also were put to

compositions. (Google AIOverview, January 19, 2025, How many pieces of music were composed in concentration camps?)

(In addition to the noted citations, this piece relied on information from ChatGPT, Yad VaShem, Wikipedia, and various other online articles.)

GenShoah SWFL provides programs of interest to local Survivors and chil-

Music Composed at Auschwitz work entertaining the camp's German soldiers. If the orchestra needed a specific musician for the orchestra, they found one amongst the Jewish prisoners; thus, providing a path for physical survival. Composing in secret was a mechanism of resistance and spiritual survival.

dren of Survivors (2Gs). Programs in March include: Our Stories (March 1) to provide a sharing opportunity for 2Gs, SWFL gathering of Holocaust Descendants in Sarasota (March 8), book discussion of Sabine's Odyssey (March 12) followed by the author Agnes Schipper (March 18).

Music and mass murder. Quite a contradiction.

Please contact GenShoah SWFL for more information at genshoahswfl@ hmcec. The Yom HaShoah commemoration in Naples is on April 12.

In essence, music was a powerful, dual-edged force: a tool of Nazi control and a profound testament to the human spirit's will to live and resist, leaving behind countless lost

GenShoah SWFL GenShoahSWFL@HMCEC.org

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COMMUNITY FOCUS

March 2026

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What’s That You’re Eating?

Zoog mir in Yiddish

By Sol Awend, GenShoah SWFL

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h Gitt’n Peerim!

Wishing you a Good Purim holiday!

And speaking of Peerim…

It’s a Jewish holiday that commemorates a time when our enemies tried Seems there’s someto destroy us. Voo den?! thing about using Yid(What else?!) In this story, dish that brings extra “Hoomen” (Haman), the villainous minister to the king joy to the festivities. in ancient Shushan, Persia, The greeting “Ah Gitt’n Peerim!” isn’t reserved wanted everyone to “beig Sol Awend just for the holiday. zec’h aroop ” (bow down) Growing up, I heard my mom use to him. Mordechai “ot nisht gehvolt” (didn’t want to). “Deh hargeh it in all sorts of situations, particularly when things went wrong. alleh Yeeden!” (Kill all the Jews!), his decree echoed throughout I remember coming home with a the kingdom. bad report card and hearing her exclaim, “Ah Gitt’n Peerim!” It was much like Ralph Cramden on The The story unfolds when “Meh lyn’t Honeymooners* saying to Norton, fin Megileh Esteh” (we read a scroll “Another fine mess you’ve gotten us about the story of Esther). She was into!” No matter what time of year, an orphan and Mordechai’s cousin.

“Ah Gitt’n Peerim!” was the go-to She grew up in Shushan under his phrase when things went awry. care. She was beautiful and won

a beauty contest held by the king.

Seems Vashti, the former queen, was cast out for failing to meet the king’s expectations.

The narrative is chanted during the holiday at the daily “minyan” (services). “Siz ah geh dreiteh maaseh” (It’s a story told in a roundabout, lively fashion). Kids bring noise makers called gregors, and each time Haman’s name is mentioned, everyone sounds off. It’s an attempt to blot out the “nehvyleh’s noomeh” (evil fellow’s name).

T h a n ks to E s t h e r ’s b ra ve ry, “ Hoomen iz geh voren off geh hongen ” (Haman winds up being hung), and “ dee Yeeden ” (the Jews) “ ob’n geh vinen ” (proved victorious). To honor this event, we enjoy eating “ humantaschen ” (Haman’s hat). These are bite-sized,

three-cornered pastry hats filled with “muhn” (poppy seed jam). All in all, “siz ah frylic’hen t’zaat” (a joyous time). Kids, and even grownups, get dressed up in costumes and parade around. But “dee veist doos alles” (you know all this). It’s just great fun explaining it in Yiddish and conjuring up wonderful memories.

On this note, then, I will stop, hearing the informal command given when “ ah Yeed deh t’zelt ah maaseh ” (when a Jew tells a story): “Maac’h nisht ah langeh Megileh! ” (Don’t make a long, drawn-out story!).

"Geb ah hayeh ah naandeh humentaashen !" (Hand over another humentaashen!) * TV sitcom from the 1950s

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March 2026

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THE COMMUNITY-WIDE WOMEN’S HEALTH SYMPOSIUM

For Women...By Women

SPOTLIGHTING FEMALE PHYSICIANS SHARING THEIR EXPERTISE

Presented By

Diane Warren: Relentless Brazina Film Series

By Richard Prosten, Chair, Brazina Documentary Series

D

iane Warren — songwriter supreme — is this her year?

If you don’t know Diane Warren’s name, you certainly know her work.

She is the creator of much of the soundtrack of our lives. On March 3, the Brazina Documentary Film Series will feature Diane Warren: Relentless, a raw, witty, and deeply moving film

In collaboration with:

Relentless doesn’t just focus on the struggle; it celebrates staggering success. Warren was the first songwriter in Billboard history to have seven hits on the charts at the same time and all by different artists.

The documentary features candid interviews with collaborators like Cher, Gloria Estefan, and Jennifer

Sisterhood of Temple Shalom • Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties Women’s Cultural Alliance

SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2026 1 PM - 4 PM

THE LOCATION WILL BE SENT TO REGISTRANTS ONE WEEK BEFORE THE EVENT YOU MAY ALSO ATTEND BY ZOOM.

THERE IS NO CHARGE TO ATTEND REGISTER NOW!

You can sign up online through any of the collaborating organizations, Sisterhoods, Chaverot or through your own House of Worship, if they are participating in the event

Questions? Email: clhchapter@gmail.com (ADDING “SYMPOSIUM” ON THE SUBJECT LINE)

Jewish Federation OF GREATER NAPLES

Diane Warren Relentless Still 4 directed by Bess Kargman that pulls back the curtain on one of the most prolific songwriters of our time, offering an intimate portrait of a woman Org resilience have whose workNon-Profit ethic and U.S. Postage made her a legend.

PAID Naples, FL

Temple Shalom 4630 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34119

Program of the Day

The program is presented “In Conversation”

Permit No. 127 The film traces Warren’s journey from her modest Jewish upbringing in Van Nuys, California, where she often felt like a "misfit" and an "alienated" child.

Born Diane Wolfberg (a name her father later changed to Warren), she was a self-described rebellious teen who once ran away from home but returned because she missed her cat.

Count Your Blessings...

Why Women are Special -

The first session will present a Keynote Speaker delivering remarks about "Why Women are Special" for 20 +/- minutes with a Q & A to follow. She will explain why women's care has been different from men's care over time and it does lead to differences in treatment, although it is starting to change in recent years. Following the Q & A, a Break is set for standing up, stretching, taking a healthy snack which will be provided or using facilities.

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Know Your Body-

The third session will also be a panel discussion about the #1 cause of Women’s Death and therefore also a health issue in women’s lives: the Heart. This session has a different moderator and is a two (2) person panel - one doctor from NCH and Lee Health. The structure and timing are the same as above.

For all her Grammys, Emmys, and Golden Globes, there is one trophy that has famously eluded her in the competitive categories: the Academy Award. Diane Warren is sometimes referred to as the "Susan Lucci of the Oscars," a perennial nominee who has walked into the award ceremony 16 times as a contender but has never left with the statuette (though she was awarded an Honorary Oscar in 2022).

This year, however, the buzz is very loud. Warren has secured her 17th nomination — for the song "Dear Me," performed by Kesha. Featured prominently in the film, "Dear Me" is a hauntingly beautiful anthem of selfforgiveness and resilience.

JewishFederationLCC.org

Women’s Life Cycle-

The second session will be a panel discussion about a "Women’s Life Cycle" focusing on various aspects not all but such as: postpartum depression, IVF, perimenopause, menopause, anxiety and depression. This session has a different moderator and is a two (2) person panel - one doctor from NCH and Lee Health. The timing is 30 minutes for the panel and a Q & A to follow the same as above.

Hudson, all of whom attest to Warren’s singular, sometimes eccentric, focus. She works 12 to 16 hours a day, carries a keyboard everywhere she travels, and famously lives by the mantra: "If you have a Plan B, don’t bother with a Plan A."

Diane Warren While her mother urged her to give up her musical pipe dreams for a steady stereotypically female job, her father became her greatest champion. He bought her a 12-string guitar and set up a small metal shed in the backyard so she could practice. It was in that shed that the "Terminator of Songwriting" was forged. One of her greatest hits, Celine Dion’s "Because You Loved Me," was later written as a poignant thank-you note to the father who believed in her when no one else did.

Whether she breaks her legendary losing streak on Oscar night or not, Relentless proves that Diane Warren’s legacy isn't defined by a gold statue, but by the fact that she has never — not for one second — stopped writing.

Screenings and Registration

This film will be shown at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center on March 3 at 1:30 p.m. (doors open at 1 p.m.).

Admission is free, but for security reasons and capacity limits, reservations are required. Registration is available via WCA and MCA websites and e-blasts during the month preceding each film.

For questions or comments, contact me at Docfilmsnaples@gmail.com.

COMMUNITY FOCUS

March 2026

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Naples Fine Art Show Returns

By Patty Narzony, Show Organizer

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he Naples community is invited to experience a vibrant weekend of fine art, creativity, and cultural enrichment at the Naples

Fine Art Show by Hot Works, returning March 14 and 15 to Coastland Center Mall just off Golden Gate Boulevard.

This high-quality, juried outdoor art show will feature professional artists from around the country presenting original, personally handmade artwork in every medium — from painting and sculpture to glass, jewelry, photography, and mixed media — all with free admission for the public.

One of the show’s featured Jewish artists is acclaimed underwater photographer Mark Kosarin, whose breathtaking images reveal a hidden world few of us ever get to see firsthand. With a photography career spanning more than three decades, Kosarin specializes in macro,

super-macro, and wide-angle underwater photography, capturing the intricate textures of coral reefs, the expressive details of marine life, and sweeping ocean scenes filled with color and motion.

Kosarin’s deep connection to the ocean extends beyond the camera. A certified professional scuba instructor with PADI, SSI, and SDI credentials, he holds the prestigious rating of Master Scuba Diver Trainer. He teaches divers of all experience levels and is especially known for instructing u n d e rw a t e r photography, helping others learn how to document the beauty beneath the surface. His expertise and passion have taken him across Florida’s coastal reefs and to world-class dive locations around the globe.

When not traveling or teaching, Kosarin works as an ambassador for Aquatica Underwater Housings at Force E Scuba Centers in Riviera

Beach and Boynton Beach. His remarkable work has earned international recognition and has been featured four times in National Geographic: Latin America — a testament to both his technical mastery and artistic eye.

ocean lovers, and anyone inspired by nature’s hidden wonders.

Visitors to the Naples Fine Art Show will have the opportunity to meet Kosarin in person, learn about his adventures beneath the sea, and purchase his striking photographic works — perfect for collectors,

Mark your calendar for March 14 and 15, enjoy free admission, and discover extraordinary art — including the captivating underwater world of Mark Kosarin — right here in Naples.

Beyond individual artists, the show offers a lively, family-friendly atmosphere filled with creativity, conversation, and community spirit.

Whether you’re a seasoned art buyer or simply looking for a beautiful way to spend the weekend, the Naples Fine Art Show promises something for everyone.

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COMMUNITY FOCUS

Thriving While Aging Baker Senior Center Supports Active Living Mark Beland Community Liaison

2025-2026

Greater Naples

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

M

e s s a g e s fro m s o c i et y, media, and even wellmeaning loved ones suggest that getting older means doing less, resting more, and stepping back from the activities and connections that once defined our lives. This shift toward inactivity, however, greatly increases the risk of physical decline, cognitive challenges, and social isolation.

challenging the mind all encourage neural connections that promote long-term brain health. Last fall, we began Baker Senior Center College, a dynamic learning program designed to keep older adults mentally active by offering engaging and practical classes such as “Cooking Up Health – The Mediterranean Way” and “Beginning Spanish.”

Staying socially connected is one of the most powerful ways to age well, helping to counter the physical, mental, and emotional effects of isolation. Meaningful interaction nurtures emotional health, supports cognitive function, and encourages an active lifestyle. Baker Senior Center Naples

UPCOMING EVENTS: Friday, March 6 1 PM • $30

3..2..1…We’re on the Air

by Robert Steinfeld Sponsored by MCA

Tuesday, March 17 1 PM • $30

We Would Never

by Tova Mirvis

Monday, March 30 1 PM • $30

Louis Graveraet Kaufman

Theresa Urgolo (third from left) with her card group Research and real-life experience show us that staying physically, mentally, and socially active is essential for healthy aging. Movement keeps bodies strong, mental engagement sharpens the mind, and social connection nurtures emotional wellbeing and purpose. Together, these elements form the foundation for not just surviving but thriving as we age.

by Ann Berman

SAVE THE DATE FOR THESE EVENTS: Carole King

by Jane Eisner Monday, April 13 • 1 PM • $30 Exclusively Sponsored by Gulfshore Playhouse

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

of Greater Naples

Physical activity plays a vital role in maintaining independence and quality of life as we age. Regular movement helps preserve strength, improve balance, and increase flexibility which are key factors in preventing falls, reducing chronic pain, and supporting overall mobility. Contrary to the belief that physical decline is inevitable, the body can continue to adapt and grow stronger well into the later years when it is challenged safely and consistently.

Baker Senior Center Naples offers over 20 weekly exercise programs including Yoga, Tai Chi, Bone Building, Line Dancing, and even Karate.

These programs help older adults build confidence, resilience, and physical well-being.

Mental activity is just as essential as physical movement when it comes to aging well. Learning new skills, exploring unfamiliar topics, and

offers a variety of opportunities to build friendships and stay engaged, including weekly lunches, a current events group, and a men’s discussion group. For those living with mild to moderate dementia, we provide tailored programs such as Dementia Respite Groups, Family Socials, and Melodious Echoes, a dementiafriendly choir. These programs help individuals and their caregivers remain connected, supported, and socially active.

A wonderful example of thriving in later life is Theresa Urgolo, a member of Baker Senior Center Naples who is 100 years young. Theresa stays busy playing cards with friends every Friday, participating in art programs, practicing chair yoga, and recently joining our drum circle!

When asked for her advice on healthy aging, she simply said, “Keep yourself active and don’t sit around the house and be lazy.” Theresa, and so many of our members, demonstrate that remaining physically, mentally, and socially engaged is key to thriving as we age.

Baker Senior Center Naples, Inc. naplesseniorcenter.org 239-325-4444

March 2026

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Fed Star

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GenShoah SWFL Upcoming Programs

By Shelley Lieb and Ida Margolis, GenShoah Co-Chairs

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authors as speakers. Lunch will be served and refreshments will be available. Plus, there will be time to mingle, schmooze and learn more about each group’s membership and activities.

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

"Our Stories" GenShoah Member Get-Together

Tentatively March 1, 1:00 p.m. at a private residence; RSVP required to liebro@gmail.com. This is an opportunity to talk with other Holocaust Survivors and descendants about themselves and their family experiences on a specific topic.

GenShoah Readers & Learners Book Discussion

Sabine's Odyssey (by Agnes Schipper) Facilitated by 2G Estelle Kafer Thursday, March 12, 11:00 a.m. at Beth Tikvah; RSVP required to office@ bethtikvah.us. Sabine's Odyssey is a memoir written by Agnes Schipper in honor of her mother's life during

Southwest Gens After Summit

March 8, from 1 to 5 p.m. in Sarasota. The program will feature four

World War II and of her father, a member of the Dutch Resistance.

2G Guest Speaker Agnes Schipper

Wednesday, March 18, 2:00 p.m. at the Holocaust Museum; RSVP required to hmcec.org. Agnes Schipper is the daughter of a hidden child, and her father was a member of the Dutch Resistance. Agnes was raised as a Catholic, the faith of her

parents, and first learned about her mother's hidden Jewish ancestry when she was 20.

Yom HaShoah Commemoration

Sunday, April 12, 11:00 a.m. at Temple Shalom, Naples; RSVP required to jewishnaples.org. A program of Holocaust remembrance for the entire Jewish Community. Local clergy, cantors, and others will offer prayers, musical selections, candlelighting, recollection of individual names, and additional presentations reflecting the solemnity of this occasion.

Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah Upcoming Events

By Shelley Einhorn, President, Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah

H

adassah represents Jewish oneness by uniting Jews of diverse backgrounds around shared responsibility, values, and purpose. Through its support of healthcare, education, and humanitarian work — most notably at the Hadassah Medical Organization in Jerusalem, which treats all patients with dignity, regardless of religion or ethnicity — Hadassah turns

the idea that all Jews are responsible for one another into meaningful action.

Fo u n d e d by H e n ri etta S zo l d , Hadassah continues to bridge the Jewish diaspora and Israel, demonstrating that Jewish unity is not about uniformity, but about coming together to heal, serve, and strengthen the Jewish people and the world.

Happy Purim! Hope to see you soon!

Feb. 27 & 28, Hadassah Shabbat Zachor Friday, Feb. 27 at Temple Shalom; Saturday Feb. 28 at Beth Tikvah Synagogue March 15, Collier/Lee’s Fifth Annual Inspiring Women Luncheon, honoring local women whose work and efforts make a difference in our communities

April 26, Women’s Health Symposium: collaborating, informing, empowering all attendees. Founding members are Collier/Lee Hadassah, Sisterhood of Temple Shalom, Women’s Cultural Alliance, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties.

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Fed Star

March 2026

Naples Jewish Congregation Upcoming Events

By Len Egdish, Publicity Chair, Naples Jewish Congregation

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

Lifelong Learning

As a congregation, NJC is committed to promoting education and reflective discussion of the compelling issues that we all face as Americans and Jews. Rabbi Herman is a poignant, insightful, and entertaining educator who generously shares his knowledge and brings about a vibrant and respectful exchange of ideas and beliefs.

Jewish ethics in modern life

Friday March 13 In this Jewish ethics in modern life: scenarios from the New York times ethicist session we will discuss several real-life ethical dilemmas sent into the New York Times Ethicist Column. Our class will focus on real life scenarios relating to desire,

want, need, freedom and choice.

Next, we will explore situations involving offering and receiving monetary rewards. And lastly, we will talk about dilemmas which arise when friends and relatives exhibit bad behavior that leaves us questioning our humanity.

Shabbat Services

Everyone is welcome to attend our Shabbat Services at 7:00 p.m. on March 13 and 27. Join Rabbi Herman, Music Director Alla Gorelick, and the NJC choir for song and inspiration in our home at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 6340 Napa Woods Way Naples. Worship together with the members of The Small Congregation with a Big Heart.

See our website at naplesjewish congregation.org for specific dates and times. While there, you can see the various planned activities.

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Tributes Tributes to the Jewish Federation Campaign To: Ken and Goldie Wetcher In Honor of Their 50th Wedding Anniversary. Mazel Tov! Love and blessings

To: Julie and Mitch McCandlish In Honor of Julie and Mitch McCandlish. Thank you to our gracious hosts for the January WCA shabbat dinner.

From: Casey Skvorc and Larry Kaye

From: Anna and Yale Levin

To: Ken and Goldie Wetcher

To: Lesa Pammer

In Honor of Goldie and Ken Wetcher. What an amazing achievement, two amazing people! L’Chaim!

In Memory of Fred Pammer.

Lesa, So sorry for your loss.

Fred was a terrific person and will be sorely missed.

From: Joan and Rich Stagg

From: Jane Schiff

To: Moe Sherman

To: Nancy Kahn

In Honor of Moe Sherman on the occasion of his 90th birthday, given with our warmest Mazel Tov. From: Karen and Neil Moss

In Memory of Susan Bookbinder. She will be greatly missed. She was an amazing woman and a huge asset to our community.

From: Jane Schiff

To: Donald Temple

Naples Jewish Congregation www.naplesjewishcongregation.org • 239-431-3858

In Memory of Donald Temple.

From: Gil Rashbaum To: Ken and Goldie Wetcher In Honor of Goldie and Ken Wetcher 50th Anniversary celebration!

From: Sally Caron To: Alan Gordon In Honor of your special birthday.

From: Susan and Joel Pittelman To: Paula Filler In Honor of Paula Filler’s 75th Birthday. Happy, Healthy and a joyful birthday to you!! Much love.

From: Karen and Stan Deutsch To: Marlene Garber In Honor of Marlene Garber in celebration of your 90th Birthday.

From: Nancy Saaranen To: Peggy Brown In Honor of Peggy Brown.

Happy Diamond Jubilee to Peggy Brown.

From: Anna and Yale Levin

To: Karen and Stanley Deutsch In Memory of Karen Berger.

Special friends deserve a special tribute. I know you will miss her terribly.

From: Jane Schiff To: Amy Dubin In Memory of Gil Feiertag.

Gil was a kind, thoughtful and wonderful man. He will be missed by all.

From: Jane Schiff To: Paula Filler In Honor of Paula's Filler's Special Birthday.

From: Penni & Mark Blaskey, Rosalee & Jerry Bogo, Joan Larsen, Alicia & Michael Feldman, Ronald Filler, Judith Finer Freedman & Jeremy Freedman, Cheryl Ginsburg, Helene & Alan Gordon, Jill Hagler, Lindsay Haug, Arline & Ronald Kaplan, Tammy & Brian Katz, Helene & Elliot Lerner, Maureen & Michael Levin, Gayle Levy & Martin Barber, Robin & Andy Mintz, Terry & Paul Monseliu, Andrea Monseliu, Susan & Joel Pittelman, Amy & Robert Pollokoff, Shelly Singer-Potekin & Barry Potekin Susan & Nathaniel Ritter, Pamela & Ronald Rubin, Laurie Lieberman & Marc Saperstein, Jane Schiff, Carol & Bruce Sherman, Lori & Charles Siegel, Gail Smith, Arlene & Michael Sobol, Phyllis & Stephen Strome

Tributes require a minimum donation of $18.

To place a tribute in Fed Star in honor or memory of someone, please contact the Federation office at 239-263-4205. Tributes require a minimum donation of $18. A note will be sent to the person/family you are honoring. Tributes help further the work of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

March 2026

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Fed Star

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Temple Shalom Upcoming Events

By Esther Garfield, Temple Shalom

O

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

Visiting Scholar: Rabbi Marla Feldman

Rabbi Feldman is the author of the recently published book, Biblical Women Speak: Honoring Their Voices through New and Ancient Mirash. Both a Reform rabbi and a lawyer, Rabbi Feldman is the Executive Director Emerita of Women of Reform Judaism. She will share how our ancient tradition can provide meaning and relevance by exploring our sacred texts and applying them to our own modern lives. Using her book, Biblical Women Speak, she will explain the literary art of midrash and share inspiring tales of biblical women.

• March 6 at 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Evening Service at Temple Shalom • March 7 at 8:30 a.m. Shabbat Morning, Torah Study at Temple Shalom

• March 7 at 12:00 p.m. Shabbat Afternoon, Lunch & Learn at Temple Shalom following kiddush lunch RSVP: tinyurl.com/TS-MarlaFeldman

Purim at Temple Shalom

Temple Shalom presents “Golden: A KPop Demon Hunters Shpiel,” March 1 at 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary.

Bring a box of mac & cheese to use as a grogger. We’ll donate it to Meals of Hope afterwards. Following the shpiel, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., enjoy Temple Shalom’s 5th Annual Purim Palooza!

• On Purim on March 3, join us for a Megillah Reading at 10:00 a.m.

• At 11:00am on March 3, is a Hamantashen baking class with Rabbi Ariel Boxman.

RSVP: tinyurl.com/TS -Haman tashen2026

Bubby & Bubbly

Saturday evening, March 21, join us at Temple Shalom as we honor Susan & Jay Weiss and Estelle & Stuart Price as well as our Special “Menschen” Don Belmont and Ken

Goldstein. Program features Bubby’s Kitchen, the true story of one young woman’s struggle to live up to her grandparents’ incredible legacy as partisan resistance fighters. Cantor Shira Ginsburg masterfully weaves together a story of loss, survival, food and family with vibrancy, wit, and a more than a few tugs at the heartstrings.

A one-act, one-woman musical, Bubby’s Kitchen explores the balance between the new and the old, responsibility and desire, and life and love. Visit tinyurl.com/TS-BnB or call the Temple office at 239-455-3030.

RSVP by March 6.

Second Night Community Seder

Thursday, April 2 at 6:00 p.m., join us at Vineyards Country Club for the richness of tradition, the warmth of community, and a traditional Passover meal! Led by Senior Rabbi Adam Miller and Cantor Donna Azu. RSVP by March 16. RSVP: tinyurl. com/TS-Seder2026

Torah Study

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

Sisterhood Judaica Shop

Shop at the only Judaica Shop in the Greater Naples Area! The Sisterhood Judaica Shop has a wide selection of Judaica. Shop for a mezuzah, Shabbat candlesticks, tallit, Kiddush cups, hostess gifts, and much more. To schedule an appointment, contact the Temple Shalom office.

Temple Shalom Naplestemple.org 239-455-3030

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

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March 2026

Fed Star

WINTER 2026

Elliott Katz Lecture Series

JEWISH INTEREST

When Caregivers Overstep Their Bounds Aging Jewishly — What our traditions teach us about growing old.

By Rabbi Barbara Aiello

Lectures are from 10:00-11:30 a.m.

Attend in person or on Zoom Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center $25 per lecture or attend all 7 for $140 Wed., Mar 4 - The Black Legend Lives Fri., Mar. 20 - The Jolly Roger and The Star of David Wed., Mar. 25 - Purple Robes, Rogue Court

Scan to Register

Or visit jewishnaples.org/EKWinter26

Presented by

VISITING SCHOLAR RABBI MARLA FELDMAN MARCH 6 AND 7

EVERYONE WELCOME!

MARCH 6 AT 7:30PM

SHABBAT EVENING SERVICE

“Biblical Women Speak! Hearing Their Voices through New and Ancient Midrash”

MARCH 7 AT 8:30AM

SHABBAT MORNING, TORAH STUDY AT TEMPLE SHALOM

“Vashti, Queen of Persia: Feminist Icon or Spoiled Princess?”

MARCH 7 AT 12:00PM

SHABBAT AFTERNOON, LUNCH & LEARN

“The Challenge of Fulfilling Our Social Justice Mandate in a Politically Diverse Environment: L’Shem Shamayim (For the Sake of Heaven)” RSVP required for the Kiddush lunch: tinyurl.com/TS-MarlaFeldman This program is generously sponsored by the Sisterhood of Temple Shalom, the Temple Shalom Men’s Club, and Temple Shalom 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL 34119

G

ail tapped on Ellen’s families who engage door, then as usual, caregivers to provide she let herself in. daily or weekly care for That’s how they did it now, their loved ones. especially since Ellen’s mother moved in. At 94, Ms. Monroe writes, “CareEnid needed constant care, givers are meant to proand nowadays Ellen was so vide professional help involved she was often too with daily tasks, health, busy to answer the door. and companionship. But This time, however, Gail sometimes, these roles Rabbi Barbara found her friend scurrying blur, and caregivers Aiello around her condo, waterbecome deeply entwined ing can in hand, giving her dozens of with the family dynamic. At first, closephilodendron plants a healthy drink. ness feels comforting — it can make care more personal and supportive.

Ellen greeted Gail with their customary Yet over time, boundaries may erode, hug, then apologized. “Sorry I’m so creating tension.…” busy, but I’ve got to get this watering done before Jan arrives. She doesn’t In her role as a communications spelike it when I water the plants more cialist, Ms. Monroe highlights five red often than she thinks I should.” flags that can spell trouble between the caregiver and their elderly client “Jan is your mother’s aide. Is she your and between the caregiver and the gardener, too?” client’s family. These include unhealthy emotional dependence between the Ellen looked away. “Gail, don’t start, senior and their aide, an aide’s inapOK. I know Jan’s taken over a lot and propriate involvement in family conI don’t want her to get angry with me flict, and blurred financial boundaries over the plants, so I give them extra resulting in an erosion of trust among water when Jan’s not here.” all concerned.

Gail sat Ellen down and took her hand.

“I know it’s hard to deal with your mom’s decline and I know how much you need the help, but Ellen, listen to me. It sounds like Jan has overstepped her bounds.”

Difficult as it may be for Ellen to admit, Gail is right. And when Gail talks about a caregiver overstepping her bounds, she’s articulating a problem that many families face when they’ve hired in-home help for their elderly loved one — some caregivers disregard or are unaware of the boundaries that are necessary when working in someone’s home.

Professionals have identified common behaviors such as isolating the care recipient or ignoring other family members, and when duties aren’t specified, personal and professional lines become blurred.

Notice Jan’s behavior with Ellen.

Sometimes caregivers can assume tasks that are outside the scope of their caregiving duties.

Professionals report that often these subtle conflicts lead to larger problems such as resentment and anxiety, which can create emotional discomfort for all involved.

In the online journal SavingAdvice. com (“What Happens When Your Caregiver Becomes Too Close to the Family?” 9/9/2025), Teri Monroe discusses the problem faced not only by Ellen and Jan, but by myriad

In one case, a client and caregiver agreed that in lieu of the regular monthly payment, the client would pay her caregiver’s childcare bill.

According to senior care experts, arrangements like this compromise the professional relationship that is essential for client/caregiver success.

“But Jan’s been here with my mother for almost two years,” Ellen wailed as she attempted to justify why she let Jan overstep her bounds. “It’s just a little thing,” Ellen said regarding the watering schedule for her plants, “and anyway Jan’s just like family.”

Ellen’s friend’s response was an emphatic no.

“Jan is a professional service provider,” Gail said. “She’s capable, kind, and dedicated, but Jan is not your cousin, your sister, or your daughter.” Family relationships are different, and experts agree that when we confuse family status with professional responsibilities, we create an opportunity for tsuris for everyone involved, because we’ve inadvertently blurred the lines.

For ten 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 from Amazon Books. Rabbi Barbara now lives and works in Italy, where she is rabbi of Italy’s first Reconstructionist synagogue. Contact her at Rabbi@ RabbiBarbara.com.

March 2026

JEWISH INTEREST

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Fed Star

The Tribe Goes to the Oscars, 2026 Version Stars of David

By Nate Bloom, Stars of David Contributing Columnist

T

his year is unusual: the 2026 Academy Award nominations came out on January 22, just in time for me to write a monthly column about the Academy Awards program. The Academy Awards (the Oscars) will take place on March 15 at 8:00 p.m. The program will be broadcast on ABC and will stream on Hulu. Conan O’Brien hosts.

The following nominees are “verified” as Jewish (they have at least one Jewish parent and identify as Jewish or “secular,” or they are converts to Judaism). If there are no nominated Jews in a category, I will say “none.” Jews are in bold the first time they are noted.

I don’t cover the technical categories (sound, lighting, etc.), and I don’t have space to say much about nominees. Please look online for longer bios. All categories have five nominees, except Best Picture, which has ten.

Acting

• Leading Actor: Timothee Chalamet, 30, Marty Supreme • Leading Actress: Kate Hudson, 46, Song Sung Blue

• Supporting Actor: Sean Penn, 65, One Battle After Another • Supporting Actress: None

Oscar-nominated. Natalie Portman, 44, is a main producer. Portman’s voice was dubbed for the Englishlanguage version.

Notes : Chalamet’s French father was raised Protestant. His American mother is Jewish, and he identifies as secular. Kate Hudson identifies as Jewish; her father is not Jewish.

Her mother is actress Goldie Hawn, 80, whose mother was Jewish. Sean Penn’s late father, director Leo Penn, was Jewish; his mother was Catholic. Penn is secular. In 2010, he rescued Jacob Ostreicher, an Orthodox businessman jailed on false charges in Bolivia.

Andrew Jarecki, 62, and Charlotte Kaufman co-directed and coproduced Alabama Solution, which follows the Alabama prison system from the perspective of incarcerated leaders. Jarecki is best known for HBO’s The Jinx . His father is Jewish.

Director

Best Short Documentary

Josh Safdie, 41, Marty Supreme. The film was inspired by the life of table tennis champion Marty Reisman (1930–2012).

Writing

• Original Screenplay: Robert Kaplow, 71, Blue Moon ; Ronald Bronstein, 51, and Josh Safdie, Marty Supreme • Adapted Screenplay: None

Best Animated Film

Arco , a French science fantasy film. The four main producers are

butcher in Tel Aviv accused of removing posters of hostages kidnapped to Gaza.

Best Original Score: None

Best Foreign Film: None

Best Original Song

Best Feature Documentary Film

All the Empty Rooms, directed by Joshua Seftel, 57. It follows Steve Hartman and photographer Lou Bopp as they memorialize the bedrooms of children killed in school shootings. Seftel has also directed Children No More: Were and Are Gone, an Israeli film by Hila Medalia about a vigil begun in Tel Aviv in March 2025.

Best Live Action Short Film

Butcher’s Stain, directed by MeyerLevinson Blount of Tel Aviv University. The film follows an Arab

• “Dear Me” from Diane Warren: Relentless, written by Diane Warren, 68. Her music has been nominated 17 times, and she has not yet won.

• “Train Dreams” from Train Dreams, music by Nick Cave and Bryce Dessner, 48; lyrics by Nick Cave.

Best Picture

The producers of a winning film receive the Oscar. Verified Jewish producers nominated include: • F1: Jeremy Kleiner, 48, and Jerry Bruckheimer, 82 • Hamnet: Steven Spielberg, 79, and Sam Mendes, 60 • Marty Supreme : Josh Safdie, Timothee Chalamet, and Ronald Bronstein • Train Dreams: Teddy Schwarzman, 46, and Will Janowitz, 45

Note: All nominees share their Best Picture nominations with other producers who are either not Jewish or not verified.

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12A

Fed Star

March 2026

ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

Former Hamas Hostage Shares Inspirational Story of Resilience

By Jennifer Milton, Jewish National Fund

F

ormer Hamas hostage Omer Wenkert stood before an emotional crowd of 400 philanthropists at Temple Shalom on Thursday, January 22, 2026, where he shared intimate details about surviving 505 days underground in Gaza and his remarkable journey of resilience after becoming a free man.

Wenkert was abducted from the Nova Music Festival on October 7 and was held underground and in inhumane conditions, with 197 of those days spent in complete isolation. Wenkert's family learned of his abduction through a video released

by Hamas, in which he was seen handcuffed, lying in the back of a pickup truck surrounded by terrorists. Since his release, Wenkert has become a global voice for freedom and remains a symbol of resilience, faith, and the enduring will to survive.

The exclusive “From Darkness to Light” event was organized by Jewish National Fund-USA, the leading nonprofit organization that is securing Israel's future by creating the most livable towns and cities in the country's North and South and links learning, travel, and leadership

so youth, families, and adults stay connected to the land and people of Israel from generation to generation.

Chaired by Jewish National FundUSA's Naples Board Co-President David Braverman and the organization’s Brotherhood Mission to Israel Co-Chairman Michael Segal, the event united Naples residents for an evening of reflection and hope of finding light after the darkness of 10/7. Hearing testimony from survivors of the single deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust is one of many crucial steps Israelis and diaspora Jews must take to begin healing.

“As a community, we have a responsibility not only to listen to survivors, but to truly hear them – to bear witness to what they endured and to carry those stories forward,” said Joshua Mellits, Jewish National Fund-USA Director, Western Florida and Orlando.

“Remembering what happened on October 7 is essential to honoring those impacted and to strengthening our collective resilience as we move forward together.”

Funds raised at the event go towards supporting Jewish National

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“Even from thousands of miles away, moments like this remind us how closely connected we remain,” added Mellits. “What happens in Israel resonates deeply within our own community and underscores why investing in Israel's people and communities is so vital.”

For more information about future Jewish National Fund-USA events in

About Jewish National Fund-USA

Jewish National Fund-USA is building a strong and vibrant future for the land and people of Israel.

Through its One Million Voices for Israel campaign, the organization unites supporters nationwide around its holistic approach to supporting individuals, families, communities, and regions in Israel's North and South, known as circles of impact. Leveraging its 125 years of impact, Jewish National FundUSA is developing the most livable towns and cities in frontier communities to attract 800,000 new residents; creating a lifelong continuum of Zionist education through travel, learning, and leadership; and establishing the World Zionist Village in Be'er Sheva, a global hub for connection and peoplehood.

With donor recognition and legacy giving at its core, supporters ensure their values and impact endure — yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

Learn more at jnf.org.

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“These mission trips have taken on a deep and personal meaning to me, especially over these last few years,” said Segal. “Our mission has two simple purposes that guide everything we do: Raise money for projects in Israeli communities impacted by October 7 and show the people of Israel we love them, care about them, and stand with them.”

Naples, contact Joshua Mellits at 941462-1330 x865 or jmellits@jnf.org.

Naples Jewish Congregation’s ~ Second Night ~

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Fund-USA’s initiatives that are changing lives in Israel’s North and South as well as initiatives spearheaded by the organization’s annual Brotherhood Mission to Israel, in which dozens of men, including Segal, have raised millions of dollars to stand in solidary with, and bestow acts of loving-kindness on, Israelis who were impacted by the war.

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Menu

Gefilte Fish Matzah Ball Soup Choice of Sliced Brisket or Baked Salmon Chocolate Flourless Torte Join us on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 5:30pm Arbor Trace 1000 Arbor Lake Drive Member/Family $50 • Non-Member $60 Child (12 & younger) $35 Seder service conducted by Rabbi Howard Herman RSVP Required by March 26 Reservations at www.naplesjewishcongregation.org (Please specify Brisket or Salmon)

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION WAR M • R E F O R M • A F F O R D A B L E • A D U LT

March 2026

SYNAGOGUE NEWS NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION

Fed Star

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www.naplesjewishcongregation.org / 239-431-3858

One Jewish Naples Steve McCloskey NJC President

O

ne Jewish Naples, this month’s theme, connotes unanimity of vision, singularity of purpose and uniformity of thought. However, the Naples Jewish community is not monolithic.

The threads that weave the tapestry that is One Jewish Naples are varied and consequential.

Diversity abounds in our Jewish community, where one can adopt any number of denominations, all with a differing focus. Some congregations embrace intergenerational families with Hebrew and religious schools, while others cater to the more senior demographic. Faith traditions run the gamut from Orthodox to Conservative to Reform, with each offering something unique for their members. This broad mosaic of religious and cultural life makes our community welcoming to all who come here.

A strong ethos of equity has always permeated our Jewish community.

This Judaic imperative of fairness was succinctly articulated in the 8th century BC by the Prophet Micah, who exhorted the Jewish people to do justly (promote justice), love mercy (act with compassion and empathy) and walk humbly with thy God (behave with humility). Our goal in this community is to employ these guiding principles to improve how we live and the lives of others, both here and beyond Greater Naples. This laudable objective is best implemented by our individual and collective commitment to tzedek, tikkun olam and tzedakah.

Inclusion and comity are the hallmarks of One Jewish Naples. In fact, it is exemplified by Stronger Together, the apt slogan adopted by t h e J ewi s h Fe d e rat i o n of Greater Naples, the stalwart institution whose purpose is to facilitate and foster interrelationships within the Jewish community. It does this by focusing on faith, education, cultural enrichment and the giving of time and resources to others not similarly advantaged, both locally and beyond. Federation is

Tuesday, March 17, 2026 • 9:15 am Naples, FL Address Provided One Week Prior to Event

RSVP Required at

jnf.org/bfinaples NO COUVERT | DIETARY LAWS OBSERVED SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE MORE INFORMATION

Josh Mellits Director, Western Florida and Orlando jmellits@jnf.org • 941.462.1330 x865

the anchor that binds our Jewish community together as One Jewish Naples, through its sponsorship of WCA, MCA, the Jewish Book Festival and innumerable other programs and events.

Central to the idea of One Jewish Naples is Naples Jewish Congregation (NJC), known affectionately as the “Small Congregation With The Big Heart.” NJC extends a warm embrace to all who enter their sanctuary. Since its founding nearly three decades ago, NJC has offered a welcoming environment for worship, lifelong learning, social action and friendships that sustains its members through life’s joys and challenges. Under the outstanding spiritual leadership of Rabbi Howard Herman and with the unflagging dedication of its lay leadership and members, NJC has found its niche in this outstanding community that is One Jewish Naples.

NJC’s has been an essential voice in One Jewish Naples and in the broader narrative of what it means to be Jewish in Naples. From its commitment to social action/ justice to its varied and diverse

programming through Sisterhood and Flamingle, NJC’s social outlet, to its always intriguing and informative lifelong learning sessions with Rabbi Herman, NJC cements relationships among its members. Partnering with others, such as NJC’s Social Action Committee working with the Social Justice Committee of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Greater Naples, where NJC worships, extends the reach and positive impact of One Jewish Naples beyond our Jewish community.

One Jewish Naples is a collaboration that creates a Jewish community that honors our past, celebrates our present and builds toward a future where every Jew here feels he or she belongs to a caring and vibrant Jewish community. This is One Jewish Naples: diverse in expression, united in purpose and deeply rooted in a shared commitment to Jewish values. Together, we affirm what it means to be a community defined by the ties that bind our hearts and our aspirations. We are truly Stronger Together.

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SYNAGOGUE NEWS

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At the time of this article’s writing, I am Keith Alter, First Vice President of the Jewish Congregation of Marco Island. By the time it is printed and read, I will be the newly elected President of JCMI. I am originally from the North Shore of Boston Massachusetts. My wife, Toniann, and I moved here full time during the COVID epidemic.

My mom and dad were members of JCMI, and we joined soon after we arrived. We have eight children between us and six grandchildren.

I started out in the membership area and soon moved into fundraising, activities and eventually Vice President. Over the past few years, we have refocused our vision to emphasize congregation, family and community.

My goal as president is to continue to grow JCMI as a community because, with all our brothers and sisters marching together, we will be stronger. Rabbi Gross always says, “That’s what being Jewish is” … and I feel the larger our Jewish and non-community is, the better and stronger we are as a whole.

For me, being Jewish is to put my hand out, say hello to the stranger walking by and helping when needed.

I look forward to this new endeavor and am humbled to help lead JCMI forward.

SERVING COLLIER, LEE, CHARLOTTE, SARASOTA & MANATEE COUNTIES

Candle lighting times March 6: 6:13 p.m.

March 13: 7:17 p.m.

March 20: 7:20 p.m.

March 27: 7:24 p.m.

Sign up for CHAILIGHTS, Federation’s Friday online newsletter Uplifting in-home senior care At Comfort Keepers®, we provide in-home care that helps seniors live safe, happy and independent lives in the comfort of their own homes.

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Get the latest information on upcoming community events and cultural activities, news from Israel and lots more.

Send an email to info@jewishnaples.org

March 2026

SYNAGOGUE NEWS

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www.bethtikvahnaples.org / 239-434-1818

BETH TIKVAH

One Jewish Naples Unity in Diversity

Rochelle Goodman Beth Tikvah President

N

aples, Florida is home to a vibrant and diverse Jewish community that reflects the richness of Jewish tradition while embracing inclusivity and unity. At the heart of this community is an initiative that celebrates the shared values of Judaism while honoring its varied expressions. This effort underscores the importance of tradition, the universal quality of Jewish practices, and the belief that together, we are stronger.

Naples is blessed with four thriving synagogues: Beth Tikvah, Temple Shalom, Naples Jewish Congregation, and Chabad of Naples. Each congregation seeks to express their Judaism

differently while holding onto the Jewish experience.

Beth Tikvah represents the conservative perspective and is the only conservative synagogue in Southwest Florida.

Conservative Judaism occupies a unique space within the Jewish spectrum. It seeks to preserve the sanctity of Jewish law and tradition while allowing for adaptation in response to modern realities. Conservative Jews uphold the authority of Halakha (Jewish law) but interpret it in ways that accommodate contemporary life. Services often blend Hebrew and English, and egalitarian practices – such as equal participation of men and women – are common. This approach reflects a commitment to continuity without rigidity, ensuring that Judaism remains relevant across generations.

Jewish tradition is a tapestry woven from centuries of faith, culture, and

This openness strengthens communal ties and promotes understanding.

By welcoming neighbors of all faiths, Beth Tikvah exemplifies the principle that diversity is not a barrier but a bridge. Together, we create a community where learning, friendship, and mutual respect flourish.

resilience. Practices such as lighting Shabbat candles, celebrating holidays, and studying sacred texts connect Jews to their heritage and to one another. Yet these traditions carry a universal message — values of justice, compassion, and community — that resonate beyond the Jewish world. In Naples, this universality fosters interfaith dialogue and communal cooperation, enriching the broader cultural landscape.

The story of One Jewish Naples is a testament to unity amid diversity.

Whether through Conservative, Chabad, or Reform expressions, Judaism in Naples celebrates both individuality and collective identity. By honoring tradition while embracing inclusivity, and by opening doors to the wider community, we affirm a timeless truth: together, we are stronger.

Beth Tikvah is a congregation committed to inclusivity and engagement. All Beth Tikvah programs and services are open to the entire Greater Naples community, reflecting the belief that Jewish life thrives when shared. From educational classes and holiday celebrations to social events and volunteer opportunities, Beth Tikvah invites everyone — Jewish or not — to experience the warmth and wisdom of Jewish tradition.

Whether you are a full-time resident, a snowbird or visiting for a short time, Beth Tikvah will welcome you and invite you to become a part of our Jewish Family. We hope to see you soon.

13TH ANNUAL NAPLES JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL 2026 Presenting the best and brightest cinematic moments from newly released Israeli and Jewish cinema.

ALL FILMS SHOWN AT THE NAPLES PLAYERS • BECOME A FILM FESTIVAL PATRON! www.naplesjewishfilmfestival.com

ON STAGE AT SENSORY BOOTH AVAILABLE

Festival Ticket Order Form

ONCE UPON MY MOTHER January Platinum Gold 26, Silver 2026

o all 12 events Jewish Book Festival Patron Levels and Benefits total $_____ total $_____ total $_____

w/ Alana Newhouse

n  vegetarian

Patron Benefits: Tickets to all 12 events (a $320 value) Copy of Lori Gottlieb’s book FastPass & separate check-in Recognition in Federation Star Reserved VIP seating Reserved seating area Free book voucher(s) Patron event with an author TBA Extra luncheon event ticket for guest

$500

$360

$225

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Sponsored by ü ü

Become a Book Festival Patron and receive numerous benefits!

THE RING THE STAMP THIEF

February 2, 2026 2026 Jewish Book Festival PatronMarch Levels 8, and Benefits Sponsored by

ü 1 ü

MI: Jewish Cong. of Marco Island NCC: Naples Conference Center ngregation TS: Temple Shalom

ening Event w/ Elyssa Friedland

$30 x ___ = $_____ ($40 at the door)

ve Barry, Adam Mansbach, Alan Zweibel

$45 x ___ = $_____ ($55 at the door)

am Chandler & Stephen Silverman

$36 x ___ = $_____ ($45 at the door)

n Sutak & Elizabeth Weitzman

$36 x ___ = $_____ ($45 at the door)

Patron Benefits: Tickets to all 12 events (a $320 value) Copy of Lori Gottlieb’s book FastPass & separate check-in Presented by: Recognition in Federation Star Reserved VIP seating of Greater Naples Reserved seating area Free book voucher(s) Patron event with an author TBA Extra luncheon event ticket for guest

Platinum $500

Sponsored by

Gold $360

Silver $225

ü ü ü ü ü

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$18 x ___ = $_____ ($25 at the door)

RELAXED PERFORMANCE

A TNP ACADEMY PERFORMANCE

T UE SDAY

DEC. 9

We areMAN grateful to these businesses and SEA organizations THE MAKING AWARENESS MIDAS for their support of the 2019-20 Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival:

March 16, 2026T H E K I Z Z I E T H E A T E R Sponsored by

March 22, 2026

NOV 19-DEC 21

Sponsored by

Celebrate the holidays with Little Women: The Musical.

A timeless tale of love, family, and resilience following the March sisters’ inspiring journey. This cherished classic reimagined as a musical is the perfect way to embrace the season!

March 22, 2026

THE KIZZIE THEATER

DEC 06-DEC 15 Andrew Lloyd Webber’s worldwide musical phenomenon comes to life as the Jellicle cats sing, dance, and dream under the moonlight. Performed by the young artists of TNP Academy, this magical show is perfect for the whole family.

72 SEASON PRESENTED BY: Virtually Yours

SHOW SPONSORED BY:

ND

SPONSORED BY:

Greater Naples Jewish Book eFestival 2020-21

Business Supporters: SHOWTIMES: WED.-SAT. - 7:30 P.M. • SUNDAYS - 2 P.M. | TICKETS: $46-$57 Thank You to Our Sponsors*

W omen’s C lliance Aultural

*As of October 13th

Sisterhood Temple Shalom

Strengthening our temple, our community and each other

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

Film Festival Patrons Venues (as of January 27, 2026)

Hilton Naples: 5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples CongregationDavid of Marco Island: 991 Winterberry EXECUTIVE Frank Baum MarciaJewish Cohodes Goldsteen Steve Drive, Iser Marco Island sing Event w/ Josh Frank $25 x ___ = $_____ ($35 at the door) Naples Conference Center: 1455 Pine Ridge Road, Naples PRODUCER Stacey Baum ShelleyNaples Einhorn Barry Greene Laurie Lieberman Jewish Congregation: 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples Temple Shalom: 4630 Pine Ridge Naples Paulette Margulies Rita Bernstein Steve Einhorn Natalie TullRoad, Greene No tickets sold na Newhouse $40 x ___ = $_____ after November 25

i Gottlieb (People of the Book Event)

Jewish Book Festival Sponsors

TICKETS

$25

239.263.7990

NaplesPlayers.org

SCAN TO BUY

TICKETS

Daymaker Hair Salon

Andy Mintz Elizabeth Star Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival is presented by: Robin Mintz Stanley Star Marc Saperstein

Festival Website & Email

ase indicate choice of entree:  chicken  salmon  vegetarian ase indicate choice of dessert:  pastry  fruit Jerry Bogo DIRECTOR

Check the events you will beRosenberg attending for easy reference: Jay Sterns Scott Ilya Prizel Karen Moss Randee Jacobs Cindi Goldfine JeremyVisit Freedman the official Festival website at www.jewishbookfestival.org for more Tue, November 5 @ 7:00pm - HN Elyssa Friedland on the authors and their books, a printable order Neil Moss Mindy Sterns Nancy Schachtman Kate Prizel Anna and Levin Rosalee Bogo Harold Goldfi ne event updates Aron Ain Judithinformation Finer Freedman Andrew Gross & Steve Israel Mon, November 11 @ 1:00pm - NCC form. Have questions that have not been answered in this insert? Send an email December 2 @ 11:30am - HN Alana Newhouse drew Gross & Steve Israel $18 x ___Matt = $_____ Phyllis Strome Steven Schachtman Jack Remondi Mon, Gregg Ossip Yale Levin Ferko($25 at the door)Marsha BillorGoldman Susan Ain Karp to fedstar18@gmail.com call the Federation office at 239.263.4205.

Mon, December 9 @ 7:00pm - HN Barry, Mansbach & Zweibel Schedule Events: lanie Benjamin & PamMartin Jenoff Barber $18 x ___Harry = $_____ Thu, December 19 @ 7:00pm - HN Adam Chandler & Stephen Silverman Strome Steve Jane Schiff Judi Remondi of Joani Ossip Gayle Levy Fischman“ Carol Goldman Robert Karp Check thereference: events you will be attending for easy reference: Check the events you will be attending for easy January 8 @ 1:00pm - TS Melanie Benjamin & Pam Jenoff rra B. Gad & Angela Himsel $18 x ___Liz = $_____ Jay Weiss Dawn Sherman Nathaniel Ritter Wed, Park Howard Margolis Jeani Fischman “ NancyARE Han Transferable Albert Benchimol Cheryl Tashof Tickets Tue, November 5 @ 7:00pm - HN Elyssa Friedland Mon, January 13 @ 1:00pm - NJC Marra B. Gad & Angela Himsel Consider purchasing aMyron Patron Festival if youMargolis can’t make it to all Traci Mon, November 11 @ 1:00pm - NCC Andrew Gross & Steve Israel Tue, January 28 @ 7:00pm - HN Ken Sutak & Elizabeth Weitzman b Mankoff & Butnick/Oppenheimer $18 x ___Madeline = $_____ Foster“ Susan Weiss Jamie Silverstein Susan Ritter Portnoff Marci JacobsPackage. Even Elissa Benchimol Ginsburg

k Fairweather & Jack Hersch

$18 x ___ = $_____

“

12 events, you can gift your tickets to friends, colleagues and family members.

Mon, December 2 @ 11:30am - HN Alana Newhouse

Wed, February 5 @ 7:30pm - TS

Lori Gottlieb

Mon, December 9 @ 7:00pm - HN

Wed, February 26 @ 1:00pm - TS

Bob Mankoff & Butnick/Oppenheimer

Wed, March 4 @ 1:00pm - JCMI

Jack Fairweather & Jack Hersch

Barry, Mansbach & Zweibel

Multi-Author Events Wed, January 8 @ 1:00pm - TS Melanie Benjamin & Pam Jenoff Wed, March 11 @ 7:30pm - TS Josh Frank Dorothy Schwebel Kay Resnick Debbie Lurie Abe Koss Larry Israelite Mel Goldfine Ronni Feibel Mon, January 13 @ 1:00pm - NJC Marra B. Gad & Angela Himsel For the events with more than one author, due to travel arrangements, the order Elliott Silbar Marci Rose Mark Mallon Phyllis Koss Wendy Israelite Elaine Griver Eloyse Fisher Lisa Bernick Hedy Abel Tue, January 28 @ 7:00pm HN Ken Sutak & Elizabeth Weitzman in which they present will be decided a few days prior to their event.

If you’d ed above for a total of $_______.

Thank you for your support of the 1 Mail this order form to: Wed,Kuller February 5 @ 7:30pm - TS LoriJoe GottliebMartella Lauren Silbar Mitchell Rose like to know the order, please email fedstar18@gmail.com or call 239.263.4205.

Gracia Nancy Kahn Michael Griver Lisa Freund Irina Birman Jack Abel Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Wed, February 26 @ 1:00pm - TSGreater Bob Mankoff & Butnick/Oppenheimer ish Federation of Greater Naples) 2019-20 Naples Jewish Book Festival!

2500 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Ste. 2201 Debra Silow Ellaine Rosen Helaine Lender Elaine Kamin Andree Haas Sid Freund Vadim Birman Judy Adelman Wed, March 4 @ 1:00pm - JCMI JackBarbara Fairweather & JackMerar Hersch sa  Discover  American Express Naples, FL 34109 Wed, @ 7:30pm - TS Frank Physical tickets will not be issued. Simply check in at each event.

• If you cannot attend an event, youMarch can 11 give your ticket toJosh a friend.

All authors appearing at the 2019-20 Michael Silow Richard Rosen David Merar Marvin Lender Fred Kamin Diane Mertz-Hart Nancy•• Garfi en Andrew Blazer Neil Adelman To make the change, please call the Federation office You will receive an email reminder about a week prior to each event.

2 In person at the Federation Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival are members at 239.263.4205 or email ___________ Exp. ____/____ CVV#_______ Beverly Linda Miller Jeffrbialek@jewishnaples.org.

Leventhal Arline Richard Hartfor multi-author events) Darryl• Garfi nkel Blazer Leslie Aderson No refunds unless entire event (both authors is Kaplan of theRick Jewish Rubin Book Council Network. Martin Silverstein office. Please fill out form in advance.

• Open seating at all events. Platinum and Gold Patrons, and Sponsors/VIPs canceled and not rescheduled.

Wendy Rubin Stuart Miller Judy Leventhal Ron Kaplan Bob Holland Nancy Garfi nkel Libbie Bramson Doris Baum Arlene Sobol will have reserved seats.

Charge by phone: _____________________ Zip: __________ 3 • If an author cancels (weather, illness, etc.) we will attempt to reschedule 239.263.4205 • Event payments are NOT tax deductible. the author in late March or April. Your original reservation will Michael be good Gary Sanders Michelle Mills Judy Levitt Kirschner Pam Hutul Phil Garon Stacy Braverman Lewis Baum Michael Sobol Please fill out form prior to calling. for the rescheduled event.

• If a venue, start time or author needs to be changed, all ticket buyers will ail: _________________________________ be notified via email.Mayer Levitt Karen Sanders Terri Polacheck Patty Kirschner Tom Huling Phyllis Garon Carol Clarke Myra Benedikt Paul Stein FESTIVAL FRIEND Alan Bernick

the 2019-20 Jewish Book Festival!

3 ways to order your tickets:

Thu, December 19 @ 7:00pm - HN

Adam Chandler & Stephen Silverman

Sharon Stein Carol Stern Jerry Stern Barbara Winthrop Audrey Yett Harris Yett Marjie Zucker Scott Zucker Deborah Zvibleman

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JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF SWFL

ORGANIZATIONS www.jhsswf.org | 833-547-7935

“Marching On” Marina Berkovich JHSSWF President

O

ur Annual Florida Jewish History Celebration was a success. Thanks to all supporters, donors, and volunteers, our essential needs for the coming year are now funded. By popular demand, we brought the highly educational Jews of Florida presentation recording to Beth Tikvah. The premiere of the new SWFL Jewish Pioneers documentary, Jane Schiff: A Jewish Visionary, provoked thought and reflection among attendees, including Collier County officials.

cel

A huge part of our mission is to celebrate the achievements of local Jewish heroes and heroines. In the 27 films to date, many have been honored, and it was quite special to express the community’s appreciation while they were still among us. So many have since passed on, but their legacy lives on in their own words — establishing the Jewish trail, enlightening newcomers, and building a historical

eb

foundation for future generations to thrive upon.

What Will Spring Bring?

March 3 is the State of Florida’s birthday. We are all blessed to be Floridians in modern times, not when Jews were precluded from settling or conducting business here, which, since the discovery of Florida in 1513, happened twice — both times under Spanish rule: from 1513 to 1763, and then again when Florida was reacquired by Spain from 1783 until Florida formally became a U.S. territory on February 22, 1821. Florida Territory was purchased in the (John Quincy) Adams–Onís Treaty three years prior. Instead of paying Spain directly, the U.S. negotiated the deal by agreeing to pay up to $5,000,000 in damages incurred

by American citizens against Spain.

In March, let’s celebrate the demise of our enemies and our own victory by dressing up for Purim and overdosing on our fair share of Haman’s ears (hamantaschen), which are traditionally consumed in excess before flour is banished for Passover. At JHSSWF, we mark all essential Jewish occasions, including Yom HaShoah, which falls in April this year.

rate

Marina Berkovich, Tim and Dabby Moshier, and Alexander Goldstein; Sandra Lee and Reg Buxton. Photo Credit: Donna Lee Brooker The Jewish Historical Society of SWFL prioritizes its own unique mission of local historical preservation. As the winter season peaks and everyone’s calendars are overloaded, we focus on preparing future programming, including the next films, which have been in the works for a number of months. This time of year is perfect to submit your ideas for our consideration. Please continue to support our mission throughout the year.

Our next event will be on May 1 at 11 a.m. at Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center for Jewish American Heritage Month.

Have you signed up for our mailing list yet at jhsswf.org? Direct all correspondence to The Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida, PO Box 10075, Naples, FL 34101; 833-3477935 (833-JHS-SWFL); www.jhsswf. org. Section 501 (c) 3 charitable organization, contributions are deductible to the full extent allowed by law.

AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY RUBRIC – MARCH FACTS FOR EVERY JEWISH FLORIDIAN March 1823. The Jew, the first American Jewish periodical, was published by Solomon Henry Jackson in English and Hebrew in NYC. March 1, 1946. The Southern Jewish Weekly was published in Jacksonville March 3, 1801. David Emmanuel, brother-in-law of the future fatherin-law of Abraham Myers (Fort Myers), became the first Jewish Governor of a US State (Georgia).

PASSOVER

Thursday, PASSOVER April 2 WITH TEMPLE WITH TEMPLE SHALOM SHALOM 6:00pm

SECOND NIGHT

Community Seder

Vineyards Country Club, 400 Vineyards Blvd., Naples, FL 34119 Join us for the richness of tradition, the warmth of community, and a traditional Passover meal! Led by Senior Rabbi Adam Miller and Cantor Donna Azu.

March 3, 1845. Florida became a US state. The first US Senator from Florida was David Yulee Levy, who was Jewish.

Jewish population was less than 100.

March 1995. The Jewish Museum of Florida FIU opened in Miami Beach.

March 25, 1911. 102 Jewish workers, mostly women and girls, among 146 victims of Triangle Shirtwaist Fire, a date that is “as significant as the 25th of Adar in the Hebrew calendar” (NYT) March 27, 1933 Anti-Nazi protest rally: Madison Square Garden, NYC 55,000 inside and outside the arena, parallel events in 70 other locations

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

Temple members • $90/person (12 & under - free)

• Medicaid Planning

Non-members

• Elder Law and Special Needs Planning

• $110/person (12 & under - $45)

RSVP by March 16: http://tinyurl.com/TS-Seder2026 or call 239-455-3030 Your payment is your reservation.

Sorry, walk-ins cannot be accommodated.

• Estate Planning and Probate

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

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

March 2026

ORGANIZATIONS COLLIER/LEE CHAPTER OF HADASSAH www.hadassah.org | CollierLeeHadassah@gmail.com

Community-Wide Women’s Health Symposium

By Diane Schwartz, Hadassah Collier/Lee Chapter

W

e are excited to announce the Community-Wide Women’s Health Symposium, a free, educational program with the goal of collaborating, informing and empowering women.

The Symposium is presented by Hadassah Collier/Lee Chapter in collaboration with the Sisterhood of Temple Shalom, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, and Women’s Cultural Alliance (WCA). It is being conducted in cooperation with NCH and Lee Health.

Mark your calendars for Sunday, April 26 from 1 to 4 p.m. The Women’s Health Symposium will be held at a well-known meeting place in Naples.

(The location will be sent in an email to all registrants.)

All Sisterhoods or Women’s Groups within Collier, Lee and Charlotte Counties that are affiliated with temples, synagogues or Chabad are invited to participate in this program. If you can’t attend in

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Naples

Fine Art Show At Coastland Center hotworks.org

March 14 & 15, 2026

person, you may join via Zoom.

(The Zoom link will be sent to those who register.)

The program will feature three sessions with female physicians: • Session One: Why Women are Special • Session Two: Women’s Life Cycle • Session Three: Know Your BodyThe #1 Cause of Death in Women – heart disease The sessions will be conducted using an “In Conversation” format.

After the physicians are interviewed, they will respond to audience questions.

Registration will open in early March and will be available through the five sponsoring organizations as well as through other women’s organizations who have chosen to participate.

If you would like further information or have questions: please send an email to clhchapter@gmail.com.

(Put “Symposium” as the Subject.)

Arline R. Kaplan, PhD PSYCHOLOGIST, PRACTICING FOR 46 YEARS SPECIALIZING IN Recovery from grief and loss Relationship issues Anxiety and Depression OVER 40 YEARS OF PRIVATE PRACTICE PhD, Temple University, School of Psychoeducational Processes Philadelphia School of Psychoanalysis Hahnemann University Hospital, Neuropsychology internship and fellowship Co-facilitator: Bereavement Group, Temple Shalom Synagogue, Naples PRIVATE OFFICE IN NORTH NAPLES The first step is the hardest. Reach out, contact me and we will work together to improve your life. I believe in the power of connection and the power of words, and you are welcome whether your issues are large or small.

239-898-8498 • arkaplanphd@gmail.com

Stay connected.

Visit www.jewishnaples.org

Facebook.com/HotWorksArtShows

Instagram @HotWorksArtShows

Cesia Acevedo, Painting

Naples Fine Art Show by HotWorks.org March 14 & 15, 2026 Juried Fine Art & Craft Show – Something For Everyone Free Admission & Free Parking Saturday, 10-5 ~ Sunday, 10-4 At Coastland Center (along Golden Gate Blvd) While at the show be sure to visit the Budding Artist Competition for grades 6-12 or ages 9-19

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ORGANIZATIONS

Hadassah Lunch & Installation Meeting

By Patti Bloom

O

n Thursday, January 8, the Collier/Lee chapter of Hadassah held their Lunch & Installation Meeting. The chapter gathered to celebrate the year’s accomplishments and to look forward to another productive year. Following a delicious lunch by Chef Jay of Prestige

Catering, our guest speaker, Dr. Judith Mann, HMO Chair, gave a fascinating update on the medical advances being made through the Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO).

In addition to this wonderful conversation, we were honored to

have Dr. Mann discharge past officers as well as install our 2026 board of officers. Her installation ceremony was unique as she compared each officer to one of the 12 magnificent Chagall stained-glass windows located at Hadassah Hospital Ein Kerem. The gavel was then

handed over to incoming president Shelley Einhorn, who presented gifts of appreciation to outgoing co-presidents Diane Schwartz and Nancy Wiadro. It was truly a meaningful afternoon.

Installation of Hadassah Officers

Welcoming Adar in Song… with Cantor David Edwards As the month of Adar approaches, our tradition invites us to increase joy.

What better way to do so than through music?

Join Beth Tikvah for a special

Cantorial Concert

Celebrating the arrival of Adar.

Through song, prayer, and melody, we will welcome a month associated with laughter, resilience, and the quiet power of communal joy.

This evening is open to the entire community.

Come as you are, bring a friend, and let music carry us into Adar together.

Sunday, February 22nd at 3:00 p.m.

Cost per person: Members $36 - Guests $45 R.S.V.P. by calling the Office at 239-434-1818 A special dessert reception will follow the Concert!

1459 Pine Ridge Road, Naples FL 34109

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION

FIRST YEAR DUES FREE naplesjewishcongregation.org • 239-431-3858 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples (at Unitarian Universalist Congregation)

Founded in 1998, NJC is a mature congregation offering opportunities for observance, study and fellowship in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

THE SMALL CONGREGATION WITH A BIG HEART

March 2026

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

Shabbat - Saturday 10 a.m.

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: manager@marcojcmi.com Website: www.marcojcmi.com Rabbi Mark Gross Hari Jacobsen, Cantorial Soloist Stan Alliker, President

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION (Reform)

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

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BETH TIKVAH (Conservative)

1459 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34109

(just west of Mission Square Plaza)

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

Steve McCloskey, President

Shabbat Services Friday 7:30 p.m.

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

Rabbi Ammos Chorny Shelley Goodman, President Roberta Miller, Secretary

Shabbat Services Friday evenings 7 p.m.

May - August: services once a month

Shabbat Services Friday evenings 6:15 p.m.

Saturday mornings 9:30 a.m.

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

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

Youth Education Adult Education Community Events Kosher catering by Chef Herb

Tax-Smart Giving Part 2

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

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Phone: 263.4205 Website: www.jewishnaples.org Email: info@jewishnaples.org Federation Board Chair: Nathaniel Ritter Federation President/CEO: Nammie Ichilov

American Jewish Committee

Regional Dir: Brian Lipton, 941.365.4955

Secure Your Family & Jewish Community Join us to plan wisely and create a lasting impact.

Light refreshments will be served.

RSVP at https://jfgn.regfox.com/top-tax-freegiving or Scan Here

American Technion Society

Chapter Dir: Kelley Whiter, 561.395.7206

Baker Senior Center Naples Phone: 325.4444 Chairperson: Prentiss Higgins

MARCH 24, 2026 12:00 PM Nina Iser Jewish Cultural CenterStephen Saks Campus

Friends of the IDF

Exec. Dir.: Dina Ben Ari, 305.354.8233

GenShoah SWFL 263.9200

Collier/Lee Chapter of Hadassah President: Shelley Einhorn collierleehadassah@gmail.com

Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center

Chairperson: Stuart Mest, MD President/CEO: Erin Blankenship, 263.9200

Israel Bonds

Monica DiGiovanni, 727.282.1124

Jewish Historical Society of Southwest Florida

President: Marina Berkovich, 833-547-7935

Jewish National Fund

Joshua Mellits, 941.462.1330 x865

Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance

Marina Berkovich, JRCA@jewishnaples.org

Fed Star is published monthly, September through July,

by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples 4720 Pine Ridge Road • Naples, FL 34119 Phone: 239.263.4205 E-mail: info@jewishnaples.org • Website: www.jewishnaples.org Volume 35, No. 7 • March 2026 • 44 pages USPS Permit No. 521 Publisher and Editor: Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Design and Production: MarketCrank, Inc. 239-591-2709 Advertising: Melissa Barr, 239-799-1840 April 2026 Issue Deadlines: Editorial: March 2 • Advertising: March 6 Send news stories to: fedstar@jewishnaples.org

Jewish War Veterans Post 202 Commander, Harvey Sturm, 261.3270

Men’s Cultural Alliance

President: Michael Sobol, 508.733.9427

Naples BBYO

Hailey Dalby, 845.405.1991

Naples Friends of American Magen David Adom (MDA) SE Reg Dir: Joel Silberman, 954.457.9766

PJ Library

Coordinator: Hailey Dalby 239.263.4205

Women’s Cultural Alliance

Co-Presidents: Debbie Lurie, 414-405-9000 and Darlene Muller, 330-540-8730

Zionist Organization of America President: Jerry Sobel, 914.329.1024

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Fed Star

March 2026

Your guests will appreciate your choice of venues.

Hilton Naples & Shula’s Steak House Excellent Food and Impeccable Service

Hilton Naples and Shula’s Steak House have been serving our community for more than twenty years. We would love to discuss your event and show you our beautiful and diverse banquet and meeting space. Please call us at 239.659.3108.

5111 Tamiami Trail North I Naples, FL 34103 I 239.430.4900 I HiltonNaples.com I ShulasNaples.com