Federation Star - May 2025

Sunday, May 4 at 3:00 PM

Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center Register for this free community event at www.jewishnaples.org

A year of growth and community resilience

The following column is adapted from my state of the Jewish Federation address delivered at the March 30 Annual Meeting. I’m sharing it to update our broader community on the organization's activities and achievements over the past year. As I stood before our community at the recent Power of Community Celebration, I was tasked with presenting the state of our Federation. Looking out at the faces of our dedicated members, I was reminded of how security remains at the forefront of all our minds. To address these concerns, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples has joined forces with the Lee/Charlotte and Pinellas County Federations to hire Secure Community Networks (SCN), bringing on John Murtaugh as our shared regional security advisor. Additionally, Jewish Federation of

Greater Naples' funds have enabled us to employ Stephan Leoni and his colleagues as guards during our building’s hours of operation. To date, Murtaugh has visited all our local Jewish institutions, offering valuable security assessments and safety training.

Throughout my time with Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, I've had the privilege of meeting extraordinary community members whose passion and commitment continually inspire me. Each interaction reinforces my belief that we are not just an organization, but a living, breathing family committed to building a vibrant future for generations to come.

This year marked a significant transition in leadership. After a decade of remarkable service, Jeffrey Feld retired with the well-deserved title of president and CEO emeritus. We are deeply grateful for his dedication. Simultaneously, we welcomed Nammie Ichilov as our new president and CEO. Ichilov arrived from Texas with his wife, Lisa, bringing a fresh vision to our community. He has already begun reimagining our approach to community building.

Our programming continues to foster engagement and connection. This year, we celebrated the 10th anniversary of our Jewish Book Festival, which attracted nearly 3,000 attendees. We are now preparing to complete our 10th and final event for this season’s festival. Additionally, our collaborative spirit shines through partnerships such as our first-year collaboration with Beth Tikvah on the Naples Jewish Film Festival, which brought over 1,000 film enthusiasts together.

In response to global challenges, our community has shown extraordinary resilience and generosity. Following last year's successful Israel Crisis Fund Campaign that raised over $1.2 million, we've raised an additional $350,000 this year to support rebuilding efforts in Israel.

I'm proud to report that Jewish Federation of Greater Naples continues to exceed expectations. Having surpassed our projected campaign goal of $1.85 million, we’ve reset our goal, striving to break the $2 million threshold. This financial strength is further enhanced by Stephen Saks' remarkable $11 million

continued on page 2

Reflections on a season of connection

INammie Ichilov, Federation President & CEO

n Pirkei Avot, Rabbi Hillel teaches us that we should “not separate [ourselves] from the community.” These ancient words resonate deeply as I reflect on my first “season,” where thousands of community members have come together through shared experiences that strengthened our collective bonds.

Like the story of Ruth, whose loyalty and commitment we read during the holiday of Shavuot, our community demonstrates that true belonging comes from choosing to walk together, supporting one another through both celebration and challenge. Ruth’s declaration to Naomi, “Your people shall be my people,” reminds

us that community is built through deliberate choices to remain connected.

This sentiment feels particularly meaningful this month as we celebrate Yom Ha'atzmaut (Israel’s Independence Day) and Yom Yerushalayim (Jerusalem Day), honoring Israel's independence and the reunification of Jerusalem. These milestone celebrations connect us to our homeland while strengthening our local community through shared joy and tradition.

Our recent program season exemplifies this spirit of togetherness. More than 10 distinguished authors visited during our Jewish Book Festival, sharing stories that sparked meaningful conversations about our heritage and values. Our Jewish Film Festival’s five thought-provoking screenings brought hundreds together, creating spaces for reflection and dialogue about our shared identity and diverse experiences.

Yet, beyond these numbers lies something more profound. When community

members gather for our speaker series, they are not just absorbing information, they are forming relationships that extend beyond event walls. When families come together for PJ Library programs, children are not just hearing stories they are developing Jewish identities rooted in community.

Our interfaith initiatives have built bridges of understanding with neighboring faith communities, demonstrating that strong Jewish identity can coexist with respectful engagement across differences. Through collaborations with area synagogues, temples and Jewish organizations, we have created a tapestry of programming that honors the diversity within our own community while highlighting our shared traditions.

Educational series and holiday celebrations have provided meaningful connection points throughout the season. From a standing-room-only Hanukkah celebration at the Mercato to an emotional Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day)

recognition, these gatherings remind us that Jewish practice flourishes most vibrantly in community.

As we transition to summer, I am reminded of another teaching: “As a pomegranate is full of seeds, so is Israel full of mitzvot.” Like those seeds, each program, conversation and connection represent potential for growth. The true measure of our success is not counted in attendance figures but in relationships strengthened, traditions transmitted, and the sense of belonging fostered.

Our Jewish Federation exists to cultivate this fertile ground where Jewish life can flourish. By creating spaces for meaningful engagement, we fulfill our mission to build and sustain a vibrant Jewish community — one connection at a time.

May we continue growing together, supporting each other, and strengthening the bonds that make our community a true home.

a year of growth...continued from page 1

donation to our endowments, ensuring we can continue to meet emerging community needs.

Arline R. Kaplan, PhD

and you are welcome whether your issues are large or small.

Our Women's and Men's Cultural Alliances (WCA and MCA) continue to create unique programs fostering connection and understanding, serving as the lifeblood of our community engagement. The programming they provide can be heard across the halls of our Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center every day. And in a moment of immense pride, we have paid off our building loan! Just two years into our magnificent new facility, we stand debt-free — a testament to our community's commitment and strategic planning.

In this era of rising antisemitism, our role has never been more critical. We are expanding our departments to reach wider audiences and provide enhanced community protection. Our Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) is broadening its advocacy mission, strengthening relationships with elected officials, deepening partnerships with

educational institutions, and expanding interfaith outreach.

None of this would be possible without our dedicated volunteers and staff. From our executive committee and Board of Directors to our committee chairs and members, it truly "takes a village" to accomplish all we do. Our incredible staff — Eduardo Avila, Renee Bialik, Anthony Clark, Michelle Cunningham, Alicia Feldman, Andre Lall, Pat Pastorius, Linda Sherman, Susan Spoerlein, Alexandra Wein, L.C. Velasco, and our faithful leader, President and CEO Nammie Ichilov — transform our vision into reality every day.

Lastly, to all of you who make up our community, thank you! And special thanks to my wife, Susan, who has supported me through many timeconsuming days and nights. Your generosity of time, talent and dedication are the treasure of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. Because of you, our Federation is stronger than ever.

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Providing for you and our community

A sampling of the difference made by your donations to the Annual Community Campaign

By Rosalee Bogo, 2025 Annual Community Campaign Chair

Here it is May, and so much is still happening in our community.

Most important is that we can kvell over how many people visited our Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center weekly.

Programs were brought to us by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, MCA, WCA and others. There were programs to educate, entertain and to gather our donors to raise funds required to provide the vital services needed locally and for Jews around the world. And there was the recent awards program, too!

Power of Community Award

The Power of Community Award went to members of the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue — Marty Gauthier, co-chair of the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue, and the Very Rev. Robert J. Kantor, V.F., Pastor, St. Agnes Catholic Church. When individuals join with common purpose, their power to create positive change becomes limitless. True community isn't simply about gathering, it's about uplifting one another and working toward a shared vision of a better world. Thank you to these tireless advocates.

Heart of Community Award

The Heart of Community Award went to our very own Patti Boochever for her exemplary dedication to building and nurturing our Jewish community. Through selfless volunteerism and compassionate service,

Boochever has enriched the lives of generations. Her commitment to strengthening our bonds has created lasting connections and fostered a sense of belonging for all. Boochever truly embodies what it means to be the heart of our community.

Human Needs Awards

Several years ago, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples’ Board of Trustees and the Jewish Community Relations Council established a “Fund for Human Needs” to recognize organizations for their generous spirit and service to Greater Naples and Collier County.

This award enables the JCRC and JFGN to acknowledge the positive contributions of several select local nonprofit organizations in our community. Annually, monetary

awards are given to up-to two “small” nonprofit agencies. The objective is to identify organizations who serve a severely means-limited, disadvantaged population.

Human Needs Awards Subcommittee Chair Liz Jaffe, along with subcommittee members Penni Blaskey and Ida Margolis announced this year’s recipients:

• Dale Mullin, founder of Warrior Homes of Collier

• Mary Asta, Gargiulo Education Center executive director

Stand Up for Justice grants

The Stand Up for Justice educator grants recognize high school, middle school and elementary school educators who are innovative in bringing respect for others’ differences into their activities with students in a transformative, impactful and caring way. The goal is to create a resource for educators of any discipline to incorporate strategies that promote understanding and respect among students, countering bigotry and bullying.

These grants recognize teachers, school counselors, school librarians, media specialists, school psychologists, administrators and other school professionals in positions of leadership and authority who have influence over students’ daily learning experiences. We were honored to recognize the following 2026 Stand Up for Justice educator grant awardees:

• Michael Daniels, East Naples Middle School

• Catherine Crawford, New Beginnings Naples and Beacon High School

• Liddy Sexton and Julie Hayford, Naples High School

• Jennifer Berning, Manatee Middle School (Principal Jay Fike accepted the award)

Education scholarships

High school seniors from our Jewish

community were awarded scholarship money to help continue their education.

The Patricia J. Adkins Youth Leadership Award recognizes the achievements of Collier County high school seniors demonstrating leadership in their activities at their respective congregations and/or BBYO youth group. They are recognized for their successful balancing of Jewish leadership, high school academics, athletics and clubs, and community service. A onetime award of $2,500 each, to subsidize their freshman year, will be sent directly to the universities where these deserving seniors attend next fall.

This year’s Patricia J. Adkins Youth Leadership Awards winners are:

• Adam Dorio

• Sidney Kamerman

• Julia Reilly

It was truly a day of celebration!

In addition to the awards, the new Board of Directors was installed and we said farewell to three longstanding Board members: Jay Weiss, Harvey Cohen and Beth Wolff. Thank you all for your years of service and dedication to Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

The Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center was built for the purposes listed above and everyone who enjoys it should help with expenses incurred by so much usage. That is another reason the Annual Community Campaign is so important. With the constant flow of different programs in many rooms throughout the day, set ups hurriedly need changing and the rooms cleaned. The exterior of the building and

property must be maintained. An expense we never dreamed would be so costly is our security.

There are 29 local beneficiaries that benefit from the funds we raise to answer needs of our local community and to make our Jewish community stronger. There are 14 recipients of funds for national, overseas and Israel initiatives. We strongly support other Jewish organizations that help Jews as well. We all practice Tikkun Olam. If you have made a gift to Jewish Federation of Greater Naples’ 2025 Annual Community Campaign, thank you. When you think about what JFGN provides for you and our community, if you have not made a commitment yet, please take the opportunity as your obligation to do your share.

Our 2025 campaign is ending in a few months. I hope that, from my articles this season, you have learned how important it is to support our fundraising as so many people benefit from it. The Allocations Committee will be meeting soon, and many needs must be met.

Thanks to all of you who have given to the campaign. Together, as one , we can make it all happen.

Have a safe and enjoyable summer.

Feel free to use this QR code to make your contribution to the 2025 Annual Community Campaign today.

Rosalee Bogo

Patti Boochever and Nat Ritter

Stand Up for Justice Committee and 2025 award winners

Very Rev. Robert J. Kantor, Marty Gauthier, Yvonne Holtzman and Nammie Ichilov

Nat Ritter, Rabbi Ammos Chorny, Rabbi Adam Miller and Nammie Ichilov

JFGN CEO & President Nammie Ichilov, Herman Kaufman and Human Needs Award recipient Dale Mullin

Julia Reilly, Sidney Kamerman and Adam Dorio

Thank you to our 2025 Annual community Campaign Sponsors

MENSCH

Stacey & Frank Baum

Goldie & Lou Bertone

Rosalee & Jerry Bogo

Paula & Ronald Filler

Ellen Frankel

Judith Finer Freedman & Jeremy Freedman

Carole Greene

Wendy & Larry Israelite

Estelle & Stuart Price

Susan & Nathaniel Ritter

Ellaine & Richard Rosen

Wendy & Rick Rubin

Laurie Lieberman & Marc Saperstein

Jane Schiff

Allison Tucker & Mark Shiffman

Arlene & Michael Sobol

Sharon & Paul Stein

MISHPUCHA

Penni & Mark Blaskey

Rhonda Brazina

Cheryl Ginsburg

Marcia Cohodes & David Goldsteen

Arline & Ronald Kaplan

Anne Schuchman & Stephen Light

Nancy & Steve Schachtman

Anita & Michael Siegal

Gail & Russell Smith

SIMCHA

Marcy Aizenshtat

Sandy & Brian Kamin

Elaine & Fredric Kamin

Linda Singer & Louis Klein Jr.

Judy & Mayer Levitt

Karen & Neil Moss

HEYMISH

Gertrude & Samuel Levine

Interesting

4720 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34119

Reneé Bialek Program Director

hat a busy season we had with Naples Jewish Film Festival; Jewish Book Festival; Elliott Katz Lecture Series; Catholic-Jewish Dialogue programs, including Kristallnacht; Yom HaShoah Commemoration; Israel and Overseas Speaker Series; a comedian; and a variety of other programs. Thank you to all who attended any of these events! We will start May off with a Community Yom Ha’Atzmaut Musical Celebration. The Israeli group Hashayara will perform on Sunday, May 4 at 3 p.m. Come to this free

Everyone should join us on Wednesday, May 28 for American Dissonance, a musical performance and dialogue with a pianist and a saxophonist at 6:30 p.m. You don’t want to miss this at just $18 per person.

Dr. Chander will talk about memory loss on Wednesday, June 11 at 2 p.m. Come to this free program and hear what he has to say about your memory.

Dale Artis Hackerman will present “A Look at Famous Logos and the Art of Visual Identity” on Monday, June 16 at 2 p.m. His presentation will explore the evolution of some of the world’s most recognized logos and discuss how important logos are in our brand-driven society. This is a free program.

Unsolved Jewish Mysteries presentations take place in June and July. “Where Is King David’s Tomb?” will be presented by Jewish educator Jason Harris on Thursday, June 26 at 4 p.m. “Who Killed Chaim Arlosoroff?” is scheduled for Thursday, July 10 at 4 p.m. Both programs are offered via Zoom. Each presentation is $10 per household.

The RSVP Bone Builders program continues to be offered for free at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples in June and July.

Connections, Conversation & Coffee with Sue Abrams, the social coach, will continue via Zoom and in-person gather-

Israel Friendship performers are coming to Naples! The Israeli teen singers and dancers will entertain us Wednesday, July 23 and Thursday, July 24. Come sing and dance with us! If you would like to host two or more students, please contact me today. Stay tuned to find out more!

Please make sure to register for all programs via our e-blast or the website calendar at www.jewishnaples.org.

Make sure to read our weekly Monday e-blast to view new programs and click on the registration links for the above programs as well as new programs being added. Dates and times of upcoming events are also announced on our website homepage. If you aren’t receiving our weekly Monday e-blast, please email me

Phone: 239.263.4205 www.jewishnaples.org

Email: info@jewishnaples.org

Officers

Board Chair: Nathaniel Ritter

Vice Chairs: Robin Mintz, Marc Saperstein, Arlene Sobol

Secretary: Rosalee Bogo

Treasurer: Steve Strome

Immediate Past Chair: Jane Schiff

Board of Directors

Felicia Anchor, Frank Baum, Shelly Bell, Myra Benedikt, Mark Blaskey, Patti Boochever, Harvey Cohen, Marcia Cohodes, Max Deifik, Paula Filler, Cheryl Ginsburg, Mia Hyatt, Steve Iser, Larry Israelite, Tammy Katz, Elliot Lerner, Joel Pittelman, Michael Rubenstein, Anne Schuchman, Michael Sobol, Jay Weiss, Beth Wolff, Emerita Phyllis Seaman

Past Board Chairs

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

Synagogue Representatives

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, Charles Flum, Rabbi James Perman, Dr. Arthur Seigel, Rabbi Fishel Zaklos

Staff

Nammie Ichilov: President & CEO

Jeffrey Feld: President & CEO Emeritus

Eduardo Avila: Campaign Associate

Reneé Bialek: Program Director

LC Cardenales: Administrative Assistant

Michelle Cunningham: Receptionist

Alicia Feldman: Development Director

Pat Pastorius: Facility Manager

Linda Sherman: Receptionist

Susan Spoerlein: Accounting Manager

Alexandra Wein: PJ Library Coordinator

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

Programs include:

• Annual Community Campaign

• Celebrate Israel

• Educational & Cultural Programs

• Israel and Overseas Committee

• Israel Scouts

• Jewish Book Festival

• Jewish Community Relations Council

• Jewish Young Professionals

• Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance

• Men’s Cultural Alliance

• PJ Library

• Publication of Federation Star and Connections magazine

• Singles Social Group

• Women’s Cultural Alliance

• Women in Philanthropy

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

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

Successful aging expert and Vice President Tom Mann will introduce you to our three premier Moorings Park communities. Discover an innovative approach to successful aging as you learn valuable details on costs, floor plans, healthcare, dining, and waiting lists.

During this presentation, you’ll enjoy a video tour of each community’s clubhouse and model residences, all while savoring top culinary delights from our executive chef.

Unable to attend? Join our webinar on June 6th at 10:30 a.m. To register, visit MooringsPark.org/Webinar. Please Join Us

Thursday, June 5th | 2:30 p.m. Moorings Park 120 Moorings Park Drive, Naples, FL RSVP by June 3rd

Memory loss presentation

With Dr. Ankit Chander

By Reneé Bialek, Program Director

Join Dr. Ankit Chander for a free program addressing memory loss on Wednesday, June 11, 2 p.m. at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

In this talk, Dr. Chander will discuss dementia from several angles. First, he’ll discuss the current epidemiology and trends. Next, he will point out common misconceptions that need to be shifted to

Ankit Chander, MD

create a dementia-less city in the future. Finally, he will discuss integrative medicine strategies to prevent and treat memory loss.

Ankit Chander, MD is a Johns Hopkins-trained physician who practices integrative medicine, combining conventional allopathic approaches with cutting-edge natural therapies.

MEMORY LOSS PRESENTATION

A look at famous logos and the art of visual identity

By Dale Artis Hackerman

Join me Monday, June 16, 2 p.m. at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center for a free program addressing logos and their impact upon society.

The concept of logos goes back to antiquity. Ancient Egyptians utilized hieroglyphs to brand and identify their possessions. Over time, these symbols developed into more structured forms of identification. For example, during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, coats of arms or heraldic designs distinguished different nobilities. Jumping ahead to the Industrial Revolution, logos became vastly important as businesses grew and competed with one another.

chaired the Fine and Performing Arts Department at Bishop Eustace Preparatory School in Pennsauken, New Jersey, where I also taught advanced placement art history exclusively to college-bound seniors. Throughout my teaching career, I served on several middle states accreditation committees where I was responsible for evaluating information provided by students, employees and others in determining whether an institution’s performance was consistent with the middle states standards of excellence for accreditation.

With over 30 years of experience,

the guesswork in choosing the right senior living community that meets your needs and preferences. I look beyond the fancy décor and evaluate facilities on:

Quality of care and services

Resident satisfaction

Health care violations

Financial viability

Operational stability

In our fast-paced society and visually driven world today, logos have become a universal language of recognition and trust. Be it the golden arches of McDonald's, the swoosh of Nike or the apple of Apple, logos go far beyond words and speak directly to our emotions, intellect and perceptions.

But how often do we pause to consider the thought, creativity and strategy behind these symbols that we take for granted, and that have become so much a part of our existence?

In my presentation, we will explore the evolution of some of the world’s most recognized logos and discuss how important logos are in our brand-driven society.

About me

In addition to a career in commercial art and trade show exhibit design, I

While teaching, I freelanced as an artist, providing clients with sophisticated graphic design and illustration solutions ranging from logo design, print and online advertising to packaging concepts.

As a fine artist, I exhibited and sold my paintings. One of my paintings is in the permanent collection of the Massachusetts Historical Society in Boston. It depicts one of the oldest weathervanes in America, the 1716 weathervane, “Indian Archer.” The Virginia Historical Society, Richmond, has my interpretation of George Washington’s Mount Vernon weathervane, “Dove of Peace,” 1787. Princeton University owns my painting of their famous “Elongated Tiger” weathervane.

An article I wrote on the importance of art history being integral to both Catholic and public high school curriculums was published in the progressive national newspaper, The National Catholic Reporter

Hackerman

Unsolved Jewish mysteries

By Jason Harris

Everyone is invited to attend these Jewish Federation of Greater Naples programs that address two unsolved Jewish mysteries:

“Where is King David’s Tomb?”

Thursday, June 26 at 4 p.m.

King David’s tomb is the only place in Jerusalem holy to Jews, Christians and Muslims. But King David isn’t actually buried there! So where is he? And why do we believe he’s there? Take a fascinating dive into ancient archeology, religious history and current conflict that will

illuminate questions about how sacred space is shared in modern Israel.

“Who Killed Chaim Arlosoroff?”

Thursday, July 10 at 4 p.m.

Zionist political leader Chaim Arlosoroff was shot dead on a Tel Aviv beach on June 16, 1993. Who killed him? The answer (or lack thereof) includes a rich cast of characters, from Nazis to Yitzhak Rabin and Benjamin Netanyahu. This Jewish “true crime” mystery reveals the origins of Israel’s left-right divide and is essential

for understanding political tensions in Israel today.

The cost per program is $10 per household. Register at https://JFGN.regfox. com/unsolved, and the Zoom link will be emailed to you the day prior to the program.

About me

I am a Jewish educator and former politico with a passion for teaching Jewish history. I’m creator and host of “Jew Oughta Know,” a podcast on Jewish and Israeli history with nearly one million streams and listeners on all seven continents.

A graduate of UC Davis, Brandeis University, and San Francisco State University, I spent seven years in Washington,

D.C. as a senior staffer to a U.S. member of Congress. I then served in a variety of professional and educational roles in the Jewish community, including running Birthright Israel trips in the San Francisco Bay area. You can find out more about me and “Jew Oughta Know” at jewoughtaknow.com. These programs are brought to you by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

• Unsolved Jewish mysteries – “Where is King David’s Tomb?”

• Unsolved Jewish mysteries –“Who Killed Chaim Arlosoroff?”

Jason Harris

King David Tomb

Chaim Arlosoroff

Bone Builder osteo exercise program

By Reneé Bialek, Program Director

You are invited to this free program, which protects against fractures by increasing muscular strength and bone density.

The RSVP Bone Builder class is special because not only are the participants improving their strength through controlled exercises, but their progress is tracked by the instructor. Certified Bone Builder Isabel Curran has been a trainer for more than eight years in Collier County.

The program will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays in June and July (no class on June 3), 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center (4720 Pine Ridge Rd.). Sign up at https://JFGN. regfox.com/bone-builders-2025.

Please print and fill out A doctor’s note is required to participate.

Print out and complete the physicians form: https://s3.amazonaws. com/uploads.webconnex.com/ 26851%2F1708098710678-Physicians+ Form.pdf. Remember to bring it to the first class.

Additionally, a consent form is required to participate. Find it at: https://s3.amazonaws.com/uploads. webconnex.com/26851%2F17080 98766447-Consent+form.pdf. Bring completed form to the first class as well.

You

must bring

• Weights (1 lb. or 2 lb.; unless you are experienced, then bring heavier weights)

• Water • Closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes

• Doctor’s note and consent form (see

Tax smart giving strategies

By Paula Filler, Legacy Chair

Practical and fun! That is how participants described the Tax Smart Giving Strategies program held at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples on April 3. For many of us with long careers and responsibilities raising children, this is the first period in our lives when we have time to learn about financial matters. It is

also the time when so many of us have an opportunity to consider what we want our legacy to be. How can we leave the most wealth to loved ones so that it will not be severely diminished by taxes? And because we want to exercise our Jewish values of charity, what are some of the best tax smart strategies for giving to a not-for-profit?

Federation Launches Silver Circle to Honor Long-Time Donors

The Silver Circle Society honors and recognizes a very special group of loyal, long-time supporters who have given to the Jewish Federation, here or in any other community, for twenty-five years or more. Members of this esteemed group have consistently supported the Jewish community, locally and around the world. Your gift reflects a shining example of tzedakah in action.

Have you, or someone you know, been giving to Federation for 25 years or more?

Please proudly let us know so we can celebrate you and your commitment to Jewish philanthropy. Contact Alicia Feldman, Development Director, at (239) 449-8266 or email at afeldman@jewishnaples.org to find out more.

link to forms). If you do not have a printer, please come to Jewish Federation of Greater Naples’ office to pick up the forms. Please arrive at 9:15 a.m. to check in with the instructor. If you can't attend certain dates in June and July, please email me.

RSVP Bone Builder Class

When: Tuesdays & Thursdays in June and July, 9:30-10:30 a.m. (no class June 3)

Where: Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

Cost: Free Register: https://JFGN.regfox.com/bone-builders-2025

Our attendees were so pleased that the speakers were truly expert, licensed professionals in estate planning and financial advisory services. They were able to provide information in easyto-understand plain English rather than the three-letter acronyms so many advisors use that leave us baffled.

Ed Wollman has a busy practice focused on estate planning, trust and probate administration, tax planning, elder law, and charitable giving. Mia Hyatt is a vice president and banker in the Naples office of J.P. Morgan Private Bank, providing financial advisory services. She is a certified financial planner. Jill Hagler, of TOP, has 25 years of experience as a philanthropic advisor in the Jewish community. All three are leaders in our Jewish

community. They share your values of generosity and giving back to the Jewish community while protecting families and are devoted to nurturing a culturally rich and safe Jewish life in Greater Naples. Participants were grateful to receive useful reference materials such as a glossary of definitions and a summary of the many alternative ways to leave a legacy gift to any not-for-profit that was tax smart. Based on questions that were asked on other financial matters, such as retirement and estate planning, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples will be offering more programs for these topics in the future. If you are interested in attending future programs, please contact Alicia Feldman at AFeldman@JewishNaples.org or me at PaulaPFiller@gmail.com.

Paula Filler

Lawn Care in Southwest Florida Very Important Coming into Rainy Season

by Anna Wallace, Truly Nolen

As our dry season ends in Southwest Florida and rain becomes more of a fixture, your dormant lawn will quickly morph into a growing one!

Knowing your lawn will grow, you may want to start considering how to maintain a beautiful lawn. The key to any healthy lawn is healthy soil. The key to healthy soil is a healthy lawn. It is a harsh reality that a beautiful lawn is like a chicken-and-the-egg riddle. As tricky as it sounds, there is a solution: getting your soil and grass to a place where they both help each other. Rich and fertile soil has lots of microorganisms living in it like:

• Bacteria: lawns can have both healthy and unhealthy bacteria for them, just like humans. While many bacteria need to be present for lawn soil to be healthy, there can be some harmful bacteria that will need to be identified and eradicated.

• Fungi: typically take up the most space underground of the lawn microorganisms. Like bacteria, there can be beneficial and harmful lawn fungi. Beneficial fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots. Harmful fungi can cause diseases and devastate certain plants and grasses.

• Actinomycetes: assist with the breakdown of organic matter.

• Algae: tends to be beneficial for lawns because they generate their own energy through photosynthesis.

• Protozoa: single-celled organisms that decompose organic materials and consume many bacteria. Just like humans need to have certain good bacteria to maintain their health, so does soil. Soil microorganisms are important because they cycle nutrients into the soil. Without them, any nutrients you put on your lawn wouldn’t be digested. It would be like taking a vitamin that your body couldn’t break down.

Lawns require certain essential nutrients to help the grass grow. The following nutrients contribute to the mineral composition of your soil and are beneficial to your grass.

• Nitrogen: is responsible for the green coloration of plants, which is necessary for photosynthesis to occur. It also helps plants produce chlorophyll, a basic catalyst for photosynthesis.

• Phosphorous: aids plants in growth and development. It is one of the essential macro elements necessary for plant growth.

• Potassium: helps your grass develop improved resistance to stress and harsh environmental conditions. To improve the potassium concentration organically in your soil, you will need to implement mulching of grass clippings.

• Sulfur: improves the disease-resistance ability of your lawn grass by boosting its immune system against disease infestation. Production of amino acids, vitamins, enzymes, and other proteins are made possible by sulfur nutrients.

• Calcium: contributes to the structural development of your plant’s cell wall. It helps in developing the grasses’ support system for its vascular activities. A calcium-deficiency in the grass is characterized by weak lawn grasses looking bent or run over.

I am happy to tell you that your local Truly Nolen representative can provide you with a Grass Facts Sheet for your particular type of turf grass with tips on maintenance and proper care. In addition, we can do a comprehensive Lawn Analysis that allows us to identify current problems affecting the overall health and appearance of your lawn. We identify the zones of your lawn most susceptible to insect activity, weed intrusion and additional areas of concern. Special care is taken to audit your current maintenance approach and provide tips for maintenance based on the type of grass you have.

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

(Anna Wallace is the Manager for Truly Nolen in Naples. Her service office can be reached at (239) 643-2555. Founded in 1938, Tucson-based Truly Nolen of America (www.trulynolen.com) is one of the largest family-owned pest control companies in the United States. To learn more about Lawn Care and how to help maintain a healthy lawn, please visit https://www.trulynolen.com/lawn-care/)

American Dissonance

A musical performance and dialogue with Isaac Dorio and Matthew Johnson

By Reneé Bialek, Program Director

Everyone is invited to join us for this musical performance and dialogue on Wednesday, May 28, 6:30-8 p.m. at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

E pluribus unum. Out of many, one. This national motto of The United States of America celebrates the power of unity

A RECORDING-BREAKING SEASON

Author Review Committee:

Emily Berkowitz

Carol Hirsch

Robin Mintz

Susan Pittelman

Readers and Event Volunteers:

Patti Badiner

Lea Bendes

Emily Berkowitz

Patti Boochever

Ann Cowen

Linda Denning

Gayle Dorio

Larry DuKatz

Linda DuKatz

Judith Finer Freedman

Louise Forman

Spencer Forman

Ken Getnick

Molly Getnick

Jan Goldman

Carole Greene

Sherry Greenfield

Lenore Greenstein

Lee Henson

Burton Hirsch

Carol Hirsch

Bobbie Katz

Carolyn Kimmel

Deborah Kohler

Karen Kolodny

Lisa Lauber

Barb Lefkowitz

Cipora Levine

Arlene Litow

Debbie Lurie

Ida Margolis

Jeff Margolis

Marci Margolis

Lynn Miller

Rochelle Miller

Andy Mintz

Darlene Muller

Mindy Nadell

Susan Pittelman

Sue Reiver

Gale Schulman

Dorothy Schwebel

Dina Shein

Iris Shur

Linda Simon

Marc Simon

Rosalie Slansky

Elaine Soffer

Phyllis Strome

Dana Strull

Leslie Wasserman

Jack Wiadro

Nancy Wiadro

Deb Wyman

Steve Yussen

Suzann Yussen

Joni Zalasky

Moderators for the Author Events:

Felicia Anchor

Emily Berkowitz

Carole Greene

Rabbi Miller

Rabbi Muller

Ellaine Rosen

Marc Saperstein

Stu Schweitzer

Mark Shiffman

Iris Shur

Federation Star Book Reviews Written by:

Carole Greene

We could not have done it without your help.

Robin Mintz, Volunteer Chairperson

Reneé Bialek, Program Director

explore the question of what it means to be an American through a curated set of repertoires that exemplifies the complexity of the American experience.

The performance will invite the audience into a musical dialogue, offering space for reflection and conversation throughout the program.

— that when we come together, we become something greater. Yet, in a time when many feel increasingly disconnected from each other, who we are as Americans has become an incredibly complex question to answer.

Through a series of 20th century works for solo piano and classical saxophone, pianist Isaac Dorio, together with saxophonist Matthew Johnson, will

Isaac Dorio is a pianist, conductor and educator currently pursuing degrees in music and anthropology at Cornell University. Matthew Johnson is a classically trained saxophonist completing his undergraduate degree in music performance at Florida Gulf Coast University.

AMERICAN DISSONANCE

A musical performance and dialogue with Isaac Dorio and Matthew Johnson

Wednesday, May 28, 6:30-8 p.m.

Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

$18 per person, students and teachers are free

Register at https://jfgn.regfox.com/american-dissonance.

Matthew Johnson

Isaac Dorio

From Star Trek to Costco

By Robin Mintz, Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival Chairperson

We just finished a successful Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival season. The “Ten for 10” in honor of our 10th Book Festival year covered an array of genres. Starting with a memoir by Adam Nimoy and ending with a fun, cocktail table book, “The Joy of Costco.” In between we explored nonfiction, historical fiction, contemporary fiction, and even a cookbook — something for everyone. We had remarkable moderators who involved the authors in

layered and engaging conversations and probing questions resulting in entertaining and illuminating answers.

For the 2024-2025 season, the Jewish Book Festival had a record-breaking 350 patrons for the 10 events resulting in approximately 3,000 attendees enjoying the author presentations and the themed refreshments in the beautiful Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

Our success is due to you — our faithful supporters, who consistently show up,

engage in conversations, buy and read the books, and enthusiastically arrive at the events with fervent curiosity and open minds ready to ask the authors their variety of questions. The Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival is special due to the enthusiasm, energy and spontaneity of our extraordinary audience.

I look forward to once again serving as the volunteer chairperson of next year’s Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival. My team and I will listen to close to 300 authors from the Jewish Book Council, and we are confident that we will have a strong lineup once again. Details will be shared in the fall. See you next season!

Robin Mintz

Volunteer Debbie Kohler supervises the rugula samples

Volunteers Lee Henson and Linda DuKatz at the cashew sampling kiosk

Volunteers Lynn Miller and Molly Getnick prepare samples

Authors Susan and David Schwartz

Greater Naples Lion of Judah pride roared through season

By Estelle Price and Gail Smith, Lion of Judah Co-chairs

The Lion of Judah pride

enjoyed a busy and incredible month of March. The week of March 10 through 17 featured a successful food drive for the Baker Senior Center Naples (BSCN) food pantry. The drive culminated with a tour of BSCN’s beautiful facility and a volunteer opportunity to serve lunch to the 200 members present at the center’s Wednesday weekly lunch.

In addition, the women present, heard from CEO and

Greater Naples Lion of Judah, Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, concerning opportunities offered to Baker Senior Center Naples members, and more specifically, what the organization does for local Holocaust survivors.

Baker Senior Center Naples is a beneficiary of Jewish

Federation of Greater Naples, and this experience offered a chance for our Lions to see how their generosity makes an impact on people in our very own community. It was a spectacular afternoon!

On March 18 and April 1, nearly 40 Lions toured the Matisse exhibit at Naples Art Institute. Our very own Greater Naples Lion, Ellaine Rosen, provided an educational and

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Introduces the New 2025 Lions of Judah

The Lion of Judah ended the season at the lovely Naples Sailing and Yacht Club. Our largest attendance for a LOJ event to date — nearly 80 women attended. The decor included a book by our guest author

mesmerizing private docent tour, proudly pointing out the Jewish connection we had with the artist and several of his associates. Rosen is such a gifted speaker and teacher; she is a treasure within our community.

and historian, Robin Gerber, “Barbie and Ruth: The Story of the World’s Most Famous Doll and the Woman Who Created Her.” Barbie’s creator, Ruth Handler was a very entrepreneurial Jewish woman. She, along with her husband, created Mattel corporation, and she was president of Mattel from 1945 to 1975. Her life story was intriguing with many successes and devastating failures. Gerber also wrote two other books about powerful strong women — Eleanor Roosevelt and Catherine Graham. As the Lions departed the event, they were given a surprise! A signed copy of the book, “Barbie and Ruth: The Story of the World’s Most Famous Doll and the Woman Who Created Her.” This past year, and especially this past month, has been a very busy, enlightening and fun month for the Lion of Judah Pride of Greater Naples. Roar!

Estelle Price and Gail Smith

Jane Schiff and Susan Feld

Cheryl Ginsburg, Wendy Rubin, Judith Finer Freedman, Stacy Pinck; (back) Robin Mintz, Joan Meltzer Blumkin, Tammy Katz and Ellen Frankel

Cindi Goldfine, Paula Maisel, Phyllis Garon, Lisa Ratner and Barb Carlstrom

Cristina Isaacs and Ellaine Rosen

2026 Lion of Judah Chair Anne Schuchman was introduced to luncheon attendees.

Community Yom Ha’Atzmaut MUSICAL CELEBRATION

Hashayara , a vibrant ensemble of Israeli musicians from the Galilee, is proud to bring the spirit of Israel's Independence Day to Naples.

Through music and storytelling, we celebrate Israel's diverse culture, innovative spirit, and the incredible resilience that has defined our nation since its founding. Our performances blend traditional favorites with contemporary Israeli hits, creating a powerful connection between Israel's past and present. This program is brought to you by Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

Luncheon celebrates the growth and impact of Lion of Judah

Empowering Jewish philanthropy through women's leadership

By Paula Filler, National Women in Philanthropy Board Member

Our Lion of Judah pride recently gathered for a momentous luncheon, welcoming Iris Kraemer, chair of National Women’s Philanthropy for Jewish Federations of North America. This event marked a significant milestone for our group as we celebrated the dramatic growth of our Lion of Judah pride, which now boasts 130 members. Notably, 26 new, thoughtful and philanthropic women joined our ranks over the past year, highlighting the evergrowing strength and commitment of our community.

Kraemer, a distinguished leader in the realm of Jewish philanthropy, holds multiple significant roles. She serves on the Board of Trustees for Jewish Federation of North America and is an Advisory Board member for Jewish Agency for Israel North America. During her address, she shared her extensive experience and insights on the pivotal role of women in supporting Jewish life both within the United States

and globally. Her extensive background provided invaluable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within Jewish philanthropy today.

One of the key highlights of Kraemer's speech was the emphasis on the extraordinary contributions made by women in the philanthropic landscape. Lions of Judah alone contribute over $250 million annually towards humanitarian services and support, a testament to the powerful impact of collective giving.

Citing research from Indiana University, she revealed some startling statistics: while Jewish people are among the most philanthropic segments of the U.S. population, less than 50% of their donations go to Jewish organizations. This trend is indeed concerning and calls for a renewed focus on directing philanthropic efforts toward supporting Jewish causes.

Kraemer underscored the influential role of women in philanthropic decisionmaking within households. According to the research, in philanthropic households, 75% of the philanthropic decisions are made by women. This figure rises to 90% in high-income households, illustrating the significant sway women hold in guiding charitable contributions. This insight reinforces the importance of fostering and empowering women leaders within our community to ensure sustained and impactful support for Jewish causes.

Our luncheon also provided an opportunity to reflect on how our local support for Jewish Federation of Greater Naples extends its impact far beyond our immediate community. Kraemer shared poignant stories from her personal experiences, including her involvement in the evacuation of Ethiopian Jews from Gondar to Tel Aviv and her time spent in a bomb shelter in Ukraine. These firsthand accounts underscored the critical support we

provide to Jewish communities worldwide and highlighted the urgency and importance of our philanthropic efforts.

As our Naples Lions of Judah listened to Kraemer's inspiring words, we embraced the chance to gain a broader understanding of the far-reaching effects of our contributions. This gathering was not only a celebration of our achievements but also a moment to pause and consider the future. The questions posed by Kraemer resonated deeply:

• How will we ensure the continuity of this vital work?

• How will we inspire the next generation to carry forward the torch of Jewish philanthropy?

As we look to the future, let us carry forward the legacy of generosity and compassion that defines our Lion of Judah pride. Together, we will continue to make a profound impact, inspire future generations, and uphold the values that bind us as a community.

Guest speaker Iris Kreamer, Chair of National Women's Philanthropy for JFNA

Estelle Price, Rosalee Bogo, Iris Kreamer, Paula Filler, Gail Smith and JFGN Development Director Alicia Feldman

Rhonda Brazina flashes her beautiful smile.

New Greater Naples Lion of Judah Lisa Ichilov

(clockwise, from top center) Rosalee Bogo, Robin Mintz, Tammy Katz, Susan Ritter and Anne Schuchman

With a little help from Judy Levitt, Wendy Rubin wears her new Lion of Judah pin for the first time.

Welcoming new Lion of Judah Peggy Brown

Stacy Pinck, a new Greater Naples Lion of Judah, is recognized at the event

Happenings at JYP Naples

By Cayla Schreier, JYP Coordinator

On Wednesday, March 12, Mel Duckson and I participated in Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties’ Purim celebration by delivering Purim shalach manot to elderly Jewish residents in an assisted living facility in Bonita Springs. We connected with six Jewish residents while handing out the shalach manot goody bags that contained handwritten cards from young Jewish children in our local community, juice, trail mix, and the best part, delicious Hamantaschen. Thank you for including JYP Naples in such a wonderful Tikkun Olam event.

Eight JYP Naples members joined Jewish Federation of Greater Naples’

Film Festival for a viewing of the Tribeca Film Festival winning movie, “Bad Shabbos,” on Sunday, Feb. 16. Jewish Federation of Greater Naples offered us delicious snacks and drinks to enjoy while we watched the movie. Co-director and writer Daniel Robbins attended this screening and answered the audience’s questions about writing and directing this hilarious movie.

Thank you to Reneé Bialek for including us.

We hope everyone has a wonderful summer!

Future events

Details about upcoming events will be distributed via email and the Facebook group chat. Please reach out to rbialek@ jewishnaples.org if you would like to be added to those group communications. We also have a Google form for members to fill out to provide feedback and ideas on the type of JYP events they would like to see in the future.

I look forward to seeing everyone soon!

The Pomegranate Society celebrates Tu B’Shvat …

By

and so much more

The sun shining outside the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center was matched only by the warmth inside Schiff Hall as women arrived for the Pomegranate Society’s Tu Be S’hvat Luncheon on March 5. Beautiful pomegranate seeds floated in vases on each table, next to bowls of fruit and nuts — the perfect setting for an afternoon of connection and meaning shared by longtime members and new members alike.

Campaign Chair Rosalee Bogo warmly welcomed the Pomegranates to the luncheon, thanking them for spending their afternoon together in support of our shared mission. She proudly announced that our Annual Campaign has already reached $1.6 million and expressed confidence that we will surpass our $1.85 million goal this year.

Bogo thanked the women for their generosity and their compassion, emphasizing

how their contributions will support Jewish communities locally, overseas and in Israel.

Gathering to celebrate Tu B’Shvat, the New Year of the Trees, felt most appropriate. Like a tree bearing fruit, the women

of the Pomegranate Society give generously — nourishing our own community here in Southwest Florida and reaching out to help Jewish people in Israel and throughout the world.

The Pomegranate Society has certainly

flourished this past year, welcoming 16 new members and bringing our total membership to 70. Four of these new members were at the luncheon and were each presented with a beautiful rose.

The Pomegranate Society of Jewish Federation of (then) Collier County, was established in 2017. Betty Schwartz and I learned about the Pomegranate Society and saw it as a meaningful gift for the women in our Jewish community. We envisioned it as a way to bring together like-minded women, creating a sisterhood united by a deep commitment to sustaining and enriching Jewish life.

Service projects are an important part of the Pomegranate Society’s programming. Last season, in collaboration with Cultivate Abundance, the Pomegranate Society sponsored a sustainable orchard in Immokalee, an area considered to be a “food desert.” Though just 22 miles

Susan Pittelman, Pomegranate Society Founding Member

Susan Pittelman

Rosalee Bogo, Susan Pittelman, JFGN President & CEO Nammie Ichilov, guest speaker Tanya Arbit and Paula Filler

(counterclockwise from left) Helene Gordon, Gail Smith, Estelle Price, Sharon Stein and Rosalee Bogo

New Pomegranate Society Member Nancy Benjamin

Joyce Steckman, Gracia Kuller and Barbara Winthrop

Debbie Laites in conversation with Debbie Zvibleman

away, Immokalee feels like a world apart, with very limited access to affordable fresh food. A few weeks ago, a group of Pomegranates took a bus trip to visit the orchard, witnessing firsthand the growth of the orchard and how their collective efforts are making a difference to the people of Immokalee. How fitting, then, to reflect on the importance of this service project and on sharing the harvest as we gathered to celebrate Tu B’Shvat!

Our joy at being together was tempered by the solemn reality that 515 days have passed since Oct. 7, 2023, and 59 hostages remain in captivity. After a moment of silence, I read a prayer for the safe return of the hostages and for an Israel at peace.

Following a delicious Tu B’Shvatthemed lunch, our remarkable guest speaker, Tanya Arbit, shared her story. Arbit chairs the Milwaukee Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign and serves on the National Women’s Philanthropy Board with Paula Filler. She is also a long-time friend of mine. We first met while we were both deeply involved in the Milwaukee Jewish Federation.

Arbit, who has endowed her Lion of Judah, spoke candidly about her philanthropic journey. She wasn’t always able to make a large gift to Federation. In fact, for many years, she was on the receiving end of our generosity.

Arbit was born in Kiev, where she experienced relentless antisemitism — always treated differently because she was Jewish. When her son, Eugene, was born, she knew she couldn’t let him grow up facing the same discrimination. She had to find a way out of Russia. Tanya and Eugene finally received an exit permit. When they boarded the plane, officials confiscated her passport, leaving her a stateless refugee — literally homeless.

Upon arriving in the United States, a representative from the Joint Distribution

Committee handed her a $100 bill. In that moment, Arbit knew that someone, somewhere, cared about her and her son. She was one of 250,000 Jews who found refuge in the United States, an opportunity only made possible by the generosity of campaigns like ours and others across North America. The Jewish Federation and HIAS arranged for Arbit to settle in Milwaukee, and once she arrived, Jewish Federation of North America, among other Jewish organizations, played a part in helping her rebuild her life.

As soon as she was able, Arbit started to give back, helping other Jewish families resettle in Milwaukee. It wasn’t long before she became a leader in the Russian-speaking Jewish community. It was then that she met her husband, Bruce, a prominent Milwaukee businessman and a past president of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation. Bruce was involved in the community-wide resettlement efforts, and Bruce’s family “adopted” Tanya’s extended family.

Giving of her time, her heart and her resources became a top priority for Tanya. While volunteering, she discovered a group of women dedicated to strengthening the Jewish community and knew she wanted to be part of it. So, she became a Lion of Judah. For their 25th wedding anniversary, she and Bruce gave each other a meaningful gift — endowing her Lion of Judah, ensuring her legacy of giving would continue for generations.

It was an honor for me to step in for the current Pomegranate Society chair, Debra Antzis, who was unable to attend due to a family emergency. I believe strongly in the heartfelt mission of the Greater Naples Pomegranate Society, and I thank each of you for your commitment to supporting Jews in need here, in Israel and around the world.

Marjorie Kaufman and Debbie Zvibleman

Tanya Arbit, National Women's Philanthropy Board Member, tells the story of being a child in Soviet-ruled Ukrane.

Guest speaker Tanya Arbit with Susan Pittelman, founding member of Pomegranate Society

Video game party expected to be incredible

By Alexandra Wein, PJ Library and PJ Our Way Coordinator

Ihope your Passover was meaningful and enjoyable. Passover isn’t Passover for me without my mom’s matzah candy, and I definitely ate my fair share! Thank you to everyone who came out to our PJ Library event at Twist! I hope your littles had a wonderful time. I loved seeing them all running around enjoying themselves. Now that I am a few months into this role, I’ve learned the importance of connecting with other PJ families for feedback as to what events can be successful, and oh boy, our combined PJ Library and PJ Our Way event this month is going to be incredible!

the Rolling Video Game Bus parked in the parking lot with video games rated E (for Everyone), as well as giant Jenga and cornhole.

Can you hear my excitement as I’m writing this?! Since this is a lunchtime event, we will also have pizza and refreshments available for all. The cost will be $15 per child. Please make sure to RSVP so we order enough food. There will be two sessions: PJ Library (ages 8 and under) will be on the bus from 11 a.m. to noon and PJ Our Way (ages 9-12) will be on the bus from noon to 1 p.m. Limit 25 kids per session.

Come out to Jewish Federation of Greater Naples on Sunday, May 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for our End of School Video Game Party! We will have

Please be sure to follow PJ Library - Federation of Greater Naples on Facebook and Instagram @naplespjlibrary for upcoming events and up to date info on all things local for PJ Library.

JRCA celebrates Purim and looks forward to May get-together

By Marina Berkovich

Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance (JRCA) celebrated Purim on March 16 at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples with a community kosher-style lunch. The event was filled with food, drink and merriment as about 50 of us gathered, bringing homemade food, challahs and hamantaschen to enjoy. Our kosher-style meals and warmth have brought over 350 Russian speaking Jewish community members to our tables in the past few years and JRCA members look forward to attending our gatherings, welcoming new arrivals, rehashing old friendships and cherishing our traditions together.

Over the 10 years that has elapsed since the creation of our very unique group, we have met many incredible individuals and their families who remain bound by the ex-U.S.S.R. unity as well as what we refer to as baggage or grief. We may visibly or unnoticeably differ from our Americanborn Jewish neighbors, not always strictly because we speak with their grandparents’ accents, but we are always happy to celebrate our Jewish unity and Purim is always one of our best attended events.

Because of our inseparable “baggage,” we combine Purim celebrations with the 8th of March, aka International Women’s Day, our formerly most

favorite spring holiday. In addition to masks, crowns and drinking, every female attendee received long-stem roses. Although March 8 started in the U.S.S.R. as a Socialist holiday, it was and frequently still is, the only interlude of gratitude that most women get for providing a caring home whilst occupying full-time jobs, raising kids and carrying a load of other obligations. In short, women are the real queens of that day!

Next gathering

gruesome memories or facts; rather, we were thrown into them, leaving an imprint that we carry forward to our children and share with whomever wants to learn.

We will meet next to celebrate Victory in Europe/Israel Independence Day. Everyone in our group had family in the battlefields, ghettos or deportation/ extermination camps during WWII or in evacuation into the depth of Urals, Uzbekistan or other remote U.S.S.R. locations. Residents set aside some of their traditional prejudices to house Jewish evacuees and we are forever grateful to those who sacrificed their meager wartime resources to save our families.

We all grew up on WWII films. Our childhoods did not shelter us from

Victory in Europe/Israel Independence Day is our most important annual commemoration. Had it not been for Israel, and more specifically, its lack of diplomatic relations with the late Brezhnev-era U.S.S.R., you would not be reading this column as I would not be writing it. My JRCA clan and I give daily gratitude for the end of the Soviet Union and its socialist tyranny — and what better day to celebrate than Israel’s Independence Day? Israel was our best chance to end our personal oppression back then and remains an everlasting symbol of hope for Jewish people everywhere.

VE Day is May 8, 1945 for Europe, May 9, 1945 for the U.S.S.R.. Yom Ha'atzmaut is Israel's national day to commemorate the Israeli Declaration of Independence of May 14, 1948.

We will celebrate both with a May 11 kosher-style community lunch. Word of caution – we revert to speaking Russian in this group, even if the predominant majority have spoken English for decades. To sign up or receive additional information, please email JRCA@jewish naples.org. RSVP is requested by May 7. No acknowledgements will be emailed until then. Please note that by joining us you consent to being photographed and photos may be used for social media posts and local Jewish Federations press.

Maria Fedorova and Irina Kharlamova

Andrew Vaysman, Svetlana Ladidus and Julian Lapidus

Mikhail Kvint and Alla Karagodova

Lenny and Tatyana Katsman

Alex and Elena Novik with superservice dog Solomon

Elena Fialkina, Tolya and Galya, Mikhail Saginur, and Alex and Rita Shvartsman

Marina Berkovich, Alexander Goldstein and Nataly Goldshteyn

Mark Katsnelson and Natalia Sotchenko

The “art” of finding one’s talent

By Irwin Weinberg, MCA Member

Have you ever walked through an art and craft festival and thought about how ridiculously talented some people are? I would do that and then, in a brief state of self-reflection and the resulting depression, wonder why I never had the skill and talent of those individuals. If they happened to be members of my generation, I wondered if they discovered their talent later on in life.

I was thinking about that scenario when I first got to know MCA member Dennis Schaab. We would go to the Thursday morning MCA breakfasts together (as we lived in the same community) and talk about many things.

Schaab was born and raised in Buffalo, New York. He graduated from Buffalo State Teachers College in 1966 with degrees in special education and elementary education. Moving to New Haven, Connecticut, he attended Southern Community State College to obtain his master’s in special education. He met and married his lovely wife, Maureen, in 1968, and they raised two sons and have five grandchildren.

At one of our MCA Thursday breakfast sessions, we talked about the 2023 movie that had just come out, called “The Boys in the Boat,” and how much we enjoyed it. As it turned out, in the 1930s Schaab’s father, a member of a

rowing crew, became a six-time North American champion rower. Further, in the early ’60s Schaab himself, following in his father’s footsteps, became a threetime North American Champion rower. I was amazed, and yet again had the feeling that I missed having a worthwhile skill or talent.

With rowing in his background, and after obtaining his masters, Yale University hired Schaab to coach the freshman rowing team. After a year at Yale, he went back to Buffalo to teach. Then, in 1972, he moved to Hauppauge, New York, where he taught environmental science in middle school for 29 years until retirement and Naples, Florida called his name.

Like quite a few of us who were new to Florida and retirement, Schaab started playing lots of golf. This got old fast as he felt he wasn’t being challenged intellectually. During this period of time, his grandchildren began attending Temple Shalom’s school. Maureen and her son are Jewish, but Dennis and his daughterin-law, Jessica, were not, although the grandkids were being raised Jewish.

With the encouragement of both Maureen (already a member of WCA) and Jessica, Dennis started attending classes offered at Temple Shalom and found them intellectually stimulating. Eventually, both Dennis and his daughter-in-law converted to Judaism. Dennis subsequently met Les Nizen, who sponsored him to

join MCA. (At that point in time there were only 300 members of MCA.)

Dennis and Maureen also enjoy going to the theatre and listening to classical music (they have been members of Artis—Naples for over 20 years).

Dennis also enjoys the Jewish Book Festival, taking cruises, and many MCA sponsored trips.

Dennis’s journey of self-discovery didn’t stop there. Sometime around 2011, he stopped playing golf and rediscovered an early hobby. He began to nurture a talent in painting with the professional assistance of a former college friend. To date, he has shown and even sold his work at art festivals and given away many of his paintings to family and friends. (Writer’s note: I certainly hope he now considers me a friend. I have several available walls in my house.)

As I had mentioned earlier, some people are fortunate to have learned they have exceptional skills and talent much later in life.

Perhaps there is hope for me yet!

A Dennis Schaab painting

Dennis Schaab

Welcome guests with a brick paver

By Eduardo Avila, Campaign Associate

Would you like to add your name to a brick paver as a welcome to guests visiting our

new Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center? Contact me at eavila@jewishnaples.org or 239-263-4205.

MCA Israel Discussion Group

By Harvey Cohen, MCA Member

We all know the old adage that if you have two Jews, you have three (or more) opinions. Perhaps the origins of the MCA Israel Discussion Group, envisioned by the late great Steve Brazina, rests in his recognition that such an open forum would catalyze our passion and understanding for Israel.

Now in its third year, the discussion group regularly finds 12 to 20 plus MCA men ready to share, listen and learn. Most are lifelong Zionists for whom Israel is central to life. Others have a broader view of Israel.

Since the Oct. 7, 2023 horror, the forum has served as a safe cauldron for our rage, fears, vulnerability and hope for a stronger Israel. On numerous occasions, local community members who recently traveled to Israel have shared their experiences by bringing us their firsthand insights.

Additionally, we are fortunate that many members truly hold expertise for

our discussions. We’ve discussed Israeli policies, Middle East politics, the Heredi conscription crisis, U.S. politics, Iran, Bibi’s future, IDF, Palestinian politics, antisemitism, Canadian politics, EU and U.N., the future of Gaza, Lebanon and recently post-Assad Syria and more.

Personal emotions often run high and disagreeing respectfully is also interpreted differently. So far, no black eyes nor broken bones! Al Pilver and Colin Lewis lead the animated 90-minute discussion, which takes place in the Price Boardroom at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center (and via Zoom). While differing opinions always surface, everyone has an opportunity to share with the group, followed by an “open mic” period.

Interested? The MCA Israel Discussion Group is held the second Monday of each month from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Men’s Cultural Alliance members are welcome. Details can be found on MCA’s site (mcanaples.org) — or just show up.

Make your check payable to JFGN and send it, with this completed form, to: JFGN, 4720 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL 34119.

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

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

8” x 8” Engraved Brick - room for 6 lines of text with 20 characters per line ($720)

4” x 8” Engraved Brick - room for 3 lines of text with 20 characters per line ($360)

The professionals at Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones honor the heritage of the Jewish faith with a meaningful memorial that truly captures the essence of the life it represents. We offer our deepest gratitude for giving us the opportunity to assist you through one of the most challenging times in life, and for allowing us to earn and keep your trust.

WCA and me

By Patti Boochever, WCA President

You may have heard that after five years as president of the Women’s Cultural Alliance (WCA), I am concluding my term in September and stepping off the Board of Directors. My husband, Steve, and I have been blessed with four grandchildren in the last four years, and we are moving to Boca Raton to be close to two of them, a two-year-old and a two-month-old.

My involvement with WCA began in 2013, more than 12 years ago. After I retired as an attorney in 2012 to care for my father-in-law and bring him to Florida with us for the winter, someone told me about WCA. Although I knew no one, I decided to attend the WCA Welcome Back Luncheon in November 2013 and was lucky enough to sit at the head table with then Vice President Elaine Soffer. Actually, I was put there because I hadn’t requested to sit with anyone. Why? Because I didn’t know anyone!

At the end of the luncheon, I mentioned to Soffer that I would be interested in volunteering. I was given my first job in March 2014, taking email reservations for an event. (Thank goodness WCA doesn’t have to do that anymore!) After my father-in-law died in 2015 and I had more time, Soffer, by then the second WCA president, asked me to plan trips and speakers, which are two of WCA’s major

programs. I was then asked to join the Board, became vice-president for programming, and eventually president, taking over from Soffer in September 2020.

When I first joined WCA, we had approximately 800 members. Every season, we create a printed program guide and a printed membership directory. The 2020-2021 Program Guide was 40 pages long! Just imagine having to proof a program guide and a membership directory each season using Excel spreadsheets with 800 members’ winter and summer contact information!

The greatest challenge during my tenure was assuming the presidency at the height of COVID in September 2020. We all learned a new word: Zoom. We began offering virtual meetings and presentations to continue to do what WCA does best: keeping our members engaged as active members and participants in our community.

One of the greatest achievements of my presidential tenure has been the successful conversion to an online membership management system in March 2021. All credit goes to Soffer for initiating the concept of using a management system and for creating a committee to research various providers. This system, Wild

Apricot, permits us to have a secure online membership directory and our own website, wcanaples.org. The website enables us to put an abundance of information about WCA at members’ fingertips. It also allows us to provide up-to-date information about events, groups, news, and more, as well as online registrations and payments.

Learning how to use this system and designing, managing and editing the website exponentially increased my limited technical skills. Moreover, with more than 1,660 members now, we could not possibly run WCA without it! Between the beginning of September 2024 and the end of March 2025 (when I wrote this article), WCA has registered members for over 460 events. And this does not even include all the activities of our more than 50 WCA interest groups that disseminate information via emails about their events. We have an additional 54 events thus far on the schedule through the end of August. And that doesn’t include the events scheduled during the summer for the approximately 650 members who now call Naples their home yearround. That’s more than 500 events this season!

In addition to surviving COVID and transitioning to Wild Apricot, over the last 10 years, WCA added NextGen for younger members and also created many other programs that have now become key parts of WCA’s programming, including

the Style Show, Volunteer Community Expo, International Potluck, Artisan Showcase, Volunteer Appreciation event, Interest Group Fair, a Passover Seder, Chanukah dance and Cocktails and Conversations. We also keep our membership busy with art classes, trips, more than 25 speakers a season, coffees, lunches, game days, museum tours, golf and pickleball, and much more. Obviously, I could not, and did not, achieve this success or manage all these events on my own. I have had the support of remarkable, accomplished, brilliant and committed WCA Board members and volunteers who are the true heart of WCA. (More than 300 volunteers were invited to our Volunteer Appreciation Tea, which was held on March 25!)

I have always been a shy and introverted person at heart. Through WCA, I was forced, or should I say I was provided with the opportunity to stretch myself, and, dare I say it, become a techie! I appreciate all the opportunities WCA has given me, particularly serving on Jewish Federation of Greater Naples' Board and helping to plan the magnificent Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

After living here for 17 years, I have very mixed emotions about moving. However, I am confident that I will be leaving WCA in good hands with a vibrant and incredible Board, led by our new Co-Presidents Darlene Muller and Debbie Lurie, and Vice President Shelly Bell. I have no doubt that WCA will continue to grow and be an integral part of Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and the Jewish community of Greater Naples.

But I will miss you all and this unique community. WCA has given me great purpose and more importantly, great friendships. Thank you all for these opportunities. I would be remiss if I also did not thank my husband, Steve, for his unwavering support for all my time devoted to WCA. It has been an honor and privilege to serve as the president of the Women’s Cultural Alliance.

WCA President Patti Boochever, 2021 to 2025

Gather, connect and celebrate at Temple Shalom’s onegs

By Melanie Metzman, Temple Shalom Director of Development

There’s nothing better than catching up with friends, meeting someone new, or connecting over a sweet treat at Temple Shalom, and our onegs are the perfect place to do just that.

Following Friday night Shabbat services, we invite everyone to join us for our weekly oneg. This casual, welcoming gathering is an opportunity to mingle, share conversation and enjoy time together as “One Family,”

Zoog mir in Yiddish

By Sol Awend, GenShoah SWFL

In German it’s known as an aus shtellung. In Yiddish it’s called a zeeyast

And on Mother’s Day 1975, it was an event called the Israeli Exposition (Israeli Expo).

It happened in St. Louis and became a life altering event that I shall never forget. I was living in Minneapolis at the time and decided to venture home to be with Mom for Mittes Toog (Mother’s Day). I spent my youth growing up in the “Gateway City” and enjoyed visiting the old neighborhoods and seeing friends who were like family growing up.

After a wonderful Sunday morning frishtik (breakfast) that only Mom can make, she gave the order, “Kim! Meh geit of’n zeeyast!” (Come on! Let’s go to the

our guiding value at Temple Shalom.

Whether you’re a long-time member or new to our community, onegs create the space to truly connect — not just with one another, but also with our clergy in a relaxed setting. It’s a beautiful expression of relational Judaism, where relationships are at the heart of everything we do.

We hope you’ll join us after services to celebrate Shabbat, nurture connections

and continue building our warm and vibrant community!

Visit Temple Shalom’s Judaica Shop!

Looking for a special gift or something meaningful for your home? Temple Shalom’s Judaica Shop is beautifully stocked with a curated selection of ritual items, jewelry, home décor and more.

get-together!) “Siz geh vayzen ah sheinem toog, ah filt dee zin ot geh shaant.” (It was a beautiful day; even the sun was shining.)

The event was held at the Jewish Community Center with some 50,000 Yiddlec’h There was even a laybehdiken (life size) replica of the Wailing Wall. Designers from New York, Chicago and Israel set up venues to display their wares. They even had Hebrew printed Coca Cola flesh ah lec’h (bottles); one of which I proudly display in my home.

It was just like being at a shuk in the Old City. All those people we

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knew growing up, and their parents who were now in their mid-50s. It was so heartwarming to see everyone and zec’h deh maant fin beesereh t’zaanten (reliving good times past).

The day was winding down to a pleasant conclusion when I decided to take one more walk through. Rounding the corner of an exhibit hall, I was struck by a bolt of lightning.

Standing there was the most beautiful girl I had ever seen. “That’s my wife!,” I exclaimed to myself. Un siz ah zoy geh vayzen . (And so, it was.) Imagine my

Whether you’re celebrating a simcha or simply browsing, you’ll find unique pieces to help you honor Jewish traditions year-round. To schedule an appointment, contact Karen Cohn at 239-370-6220.

happiness when I told my parents that I needed the car because I’d met someone.

Imagine how gliklec’h (overjoyed) they were to give me car keys. Gei! Gei! Met zec’h treefen shpayteh! (Go! Go! We’ll meet up later!)

There were six other couples that met that day 50 years ago, and I believe we are the only ones left together.

Sometimes I wonder, had those 50,000 people not been there, how would Sue and I have ever met?

It’s May, and my best wishes to those whose mothers are still with us. To us, who are parents and grandparents? May we live to see our offspring find true love and celebrate in happiness. Alevei! (It should only be!)

Sol Awend

At the Museum

MErin Blankenship President & CEO

ay 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Holocaust and World War II in Europe. As allied troops advanced deeper into Nazi-held territory, they came across nightmarish scenes in concentration and slave labor camps across Europe. Upon hearing about the conditions of the newly liberated Ohrdruf camp, Allied Supreme Commander General Dwight Eisenhower, along with General George Patton and General Omar Bradley, visited the camp and were incensed by what they saw. Eisenhower immediately ordered the visual documentation of this evidence of the Nazi brutality. He sensed the photographs and film footage captured at Ohrdruf and other camps would be crucial to refute future claims of Holocaust deniers.

As we continue to lose survivors, the documentation collected by General Eisenhower’s troops and members of the wartime media becomes even more important to preserve and utilize in Holocaust education programs.

Sadly, the Holocaust wasn’t the last genocide the world has seen. Each April during Genocide Awareness Month, we remember the victims of other mass killing events. In the Museum’s Shelley and Steven Einhorn Gallery, the exhibition “Risk Factors for Genocide” examines how various societal, economic, governmental and historical indicators are

involved in a country’s descent into genocide. I encourage you to visit and use our interactive display, which shows visitors information on where genocides have occurred since the end of World War II.

Matching gift challenge a success

I am pleased to announce that the Triumph Event Matching Challenge grant helped us raise a record $300,000 in support of the Museum’s mission. These funds enable us to reach thousands of students and educators with lessons of the Holocaust. Many thanks to all who contributed as well as to The Harvey D. and Janet G. Cohen Charitable Foundation and The Ray Foundation for their generosity as challenge sponsors.

A busy year continues

This school year, we worked with

students and teachers in seven Southwest Florida counties! We continue to be busy with school field trips and oncampus programs. Our PopUp Museum displays have been on exhibit at a variety of Southwest Florida school locations, as has the traveling Boxcar exhibit. Our age-appropriate programs are available to public, private, charter, home school and alternative school groups. These resources are available for free! Please contact Education Specialist Katie Butte at Katie@ hmcec.org for more information and schedule availabilities.

Private group tours and meetings

Are you looking for an interesting activity for friends, neighbors or visiting relatives? Consider a private group tour of the Museum. These tours are offered year-round and held when the Museum is closed to the public. A variety of program options are available. With our recent expansion, we also have the capacity to host community and fraternal organizations for meetings and social gatherings. Contact Community Manager Julie Cohen for more information and schedule availabilities at Julie@hmcec.org.

Current exhibit

“Convincing the Masses: Propaganda at Home and Abroad” is on display in the Estelle and Stuart Price Gallery through mid-August 2025. The exhibition features

artifacts from the Museum’s permanent collection as well as materials loaned specifically for the exhibition. It illustrates the many ways propaganda was used during World War II, by both the Nazis and the Allies.

Recent news

I had the opportunity to introduce myself to volunteers and GenShoah SWFL members at the recent “Meet and Greet” breakfast. It was delightful to chat with everyone and learn more about their involvement with the Museum. Each person there, as well as any who were unable to attend, has helped the Museum thrive and continue its important mission.

Curator Cody Rademacher presented at Florida SouthWestern State College’s annual Dr. Talbot Spivak Holocaust Memorial Week event. In “Liberation on a Local Level,” Rademacher spoke about the Museum’s connections with Southwest Florida WWII veterans and liberators. These men and women greatly aided the Museum’s ability to provide the public with a unique perspective on Holocaust history. They added their testimonies to our Oral Visual History project, and generously donated photographs, documents and artifacts to our permanent collection. Professor Sara Gottwalles, organizer of the FSW event, was a former Museum intern.

Another program event was the Second-Generation Round Table, presented by GenShoah SWFL members Sol Awend, Dr. Stuart Mest and Richard Stein. GenShoah member Sam Varsano presented “The Holocaust in Salonica.” Survivor Steen Metz also spoke via Zoom and participated in a Q&A session. The Boxcar exhibit was also on display at FSW during the week-long event.

Complimentary admission on VE Day

We are again offering complimentary admission on VE Day. Reservations are required as space is limited. Please visit our website hmcec.org to reserve your spot.

We look forward to seeing you at the Museum soon!

Erin Blankenship and Cody Rademacher speak with a volunteer

GenShoah members and Erin Blankenship at the Meet and Greet

Auschwitz, liberated January 1945

The play’s the thing

By Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb

The winds of change hit Southwest Florida, often and with interesting results. One result of the growing population has been the expansion of the performing arts. The number of theater groups and venues has broadened the types of plays presented. Having more people in the area means plenty of burdens to the fragile environment, to housing needs, to roads, to healthcare, to water, etc., but it also opens the doors to a more diverse offering of events for this growing population.

The performing arts have always been more than a simple method of entertainment. A play can capture and clarify an historical event. It can celebrate a precious moment in life. It can explain a perplexing decision. It can evoke emotions that are buried within one's soul. It can disturb one's thought processes and show a new direction.

How does this all relate to GenShoah? GenShoah's mission statement includes promoting Holocaust education and preserving the history and memories of the Holocaust. When something comes up in this community that echoes the GenShoah mission statement, it is important for GenShoah to recognize, promote and explain it to the membership and the larger audience.

Without any prompting or planning from GenShoah, a surprising number of performances about the Holocaust have taken place on numerous local stages over the past seven months.

It started with "Letters to Sala" by Arlene Hutton in November 2024. This performance was developed and staged at Florida Gulf Coast University. Kristin Mellian was the director. The play is based on the book, “Sala's Gift,” by Ann Kirschner. In this true story, Kirschner's mother is a Polish survivor nearing the end of her life who suddenly reveals a cache of letters written between her and her family during her time in labor camps.

A GenShoah group attended a performance with a talkback. The group was warmly received by the director and the performers. The full house audience overwhelmingly appreciated the cast and

the production, and there was no doubt that both the audience and the cast were affected by the realities of the Holocaust portrayed.

The end of January 2025 delivered "The Boy from Block 66," written (adapted from a popular true story in a novel by Limor Regev) and directed by

Again, GenShoah members who attended this play were impressed.

April 2025 saw an interesting performance of "Good Jew" by playwright/ performer Frank Blocker at the Norris Theater in Naples. It is the story of Holocaust survivor Henry Altman, who is being interviewed about his experiences during World War II. For the first time, he opens up about his life in the ghetto, escaping concentration camps, joining the resistance, constantly adapting to his situation, and eventually, relocating to America. This is a very personal account, as Blocker's late partner and co-playwright Murray Scott Changar was Altman’s son.

GenShoah acknowledges and appreciates this community's live theater and its role in providing important information and access to the lessons of

Kody C. Jones at the Performing Arts Center in Bonita Springs. It is the true story of Moshe Kessler, a 14-year-old Holocaust survivor. Some performances were scheduled during the school day to encourage student attendance.

In his own words, Jones is "extremely passionate about educating and enlightening all ages through theatre. I was struck by Florida taking so much out of the curriculum in public schools including units on the Holocaust. I'm always looking for ways to try and restore balance to the social, political or economic issues happening in our community by starting discussion through live theatre."

the Holocaust for our growing and diverse population.

About GenShoah SWFL

GenShoah SWFL is a group for children and descendants of Holocaust survivors, and anyone interested in the mission of GenShoah of SWFL which is:

• Promotion of Holocaust education and human rights

• Preservation of history and memories of the Holocaust

• Connecting the second generation with one another

• And support of the Holocaust Museum & Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen Education Center

Our group is always open to interested people. There are no dues or forms to fill out. If you would like to receive our newsletter and program announcements, just send an email to liebro@gmail.com. If you would like to volunteer to help with future programs, please let us know that, too!

Thank you to those who support our mission, read the newsletter, attend GenShoah programs and are members of the Holocaust Museum and Cohen Education Center in Naples. We do encourage membership at the Holocaust Museum, as we are an affinity organization with them. If you are not already a member of the Museum, please consider joining or making a donation.

Kristin Mellian Kody C. Jones

Frank Blocker

Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb

Showing up in the community!

American Jewish Committee lunch and learn

The American Jewish Committee (AJC) West Coast Florida held a Lunch and Learn in Sarasota featuring keynote speaker Ted Deutch, CEO of AJC. Naples was represented by Mark Blaskey, president of AJC Philadelphia and South Jersey Region, Penni Blaskey and Jeff and Ida Margolis among more than 150 attendees.

Tributes

Tributes

to the Jewish Federation Campaign

To: Ronald Kaplan

In celebration of Ronald Kaplan. Mazel Tov on becoming a bar mitzvah — for the second time!

From: Susan and Joel Pittelman

To: Anna and Yale Levin

In appreciation of Anna and Yale Levin for hosting Passover Sedar.

From: Joan and Marc Saperstein

To: Spencer and Louise Forman

In memory of your brother, Jeffrey Forman.

From: Barbara and Gene Goldenziel

To: Arlene and Mike Sobol

In honor of Arlene and Michael Sobol.

Thank you for all you both do for the Jewish community.

From: Hilda and Marty Levine

To: Marty Barber and Gayle Levy In appreciation of your friendship and warm hospitality.

From: Rosalee and Jerry Bogo

To: Judy Zahn In loving memory of your sister, Gail Cohon Stein.

From: Jane Schiff

To: Anne Schuchman and Stephen Light In gratitude to Anne and Stephen for your gracious hospitality.

From: Nancy Wiadro

To: Barbara Goldenziel Happy, happy birthday, Barb, on your very special birthday!

From: Deb and Pete Smith

Tributes require a minimum donation of $18.

To place a tribute in the FederationStarin honor or memory of someone, please contact Linda Sherman at the Federation office at 239-263-4205 or lshermanjewishnaples.org. 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.

More than 35 NextGen women

to

Jewish Federation Feb. 28 Shabbat at JCMI

JCMI Rabbi Mark Gross, JFGN Chair Nat Ritter and JFGN President & CEO Nammie Ichilov

WCA Hamantashen Bake

gathered

learn the art of hamentashen baking in the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center kitchen in celebration of Purim. The facilitator was Stacy Pinck.

Deb Geller and Lori Kleiman (left) with Lisa Ichilov (right).

AJC West Coast Florida Lunch and Learn

AJC CEO Ted Deutch

What happens when bullies grow up and move to senior living

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

By Rabbi Barbara Aiello

"Ihaven’tseen you in the dining room for ages,”

Selma said as she rushed to greet her neighbor, Betty, who lived on the same floor in their senior living complex. Betty wrung her hands and said, “I’ve been eating in my room. It’s easier that way.”

Selma was confused by Betty’s response until the day that Betty finally opened up to her friend. “I don’t come to the dining room anymore,” Betty said. “Too many residents are mean to me.”

Rabbi Barbara Aiello

At Selma’s urging, Betty spoke with the retirement home’s staff social worker who encouraged Betty to tell her story which reads like a textbook case of something many believed happened only among kids on the playground. At 84 years old, Betty was a victim of bullying.

In recent years, U.S. and international government organizations have adopted a definition of bullying and initiated programs to prevent bullying behavior. In fact, the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has adopted a definition that includes all victims when they say, "A person is bullied when he or she is exposed, repeatedly and over time, to negative

actions on the part of one or more other persons, and he or she has difficulty defending himself or herself.”

Dr. Dan Olweus, a psychologist and founding father of the field of bully/ victim research is responsible for UNESCO’s current working definition of bullying. Dr. Olweus explains that bullying is an aggressive pattern of behavior … that often involves a balance of power or strength. Experts agree and note that bullying can happen to anyone at any age.

Just ask Associated Press reporter Matt Sedensky whose recent article, “Senior Centers Grapple with Bullying Issues,” received national attention. In the article, Mr. Sedensky interviews Robin Bonifas, a social work professor and author of the book "Bullying among Older Adults: How to Recognize and Address an Unseen Epidemic.” Dr. Bonifas sites research that suggests about one in five seniors encounter bullying and attributes bullying to “a reflection of issues unique to getting older. Because some elderly men and women see their independence and sense of control disappearing, becoming a bully can feel like regaining some of that lost power.”

Mr. Sedesky spoke to Pamela Countouris, a consultant whose Pittsburghbased program focuses on staff training to combat senior bullying. Countouris emphasizes that “most senior bullying isn't physical but rather involves namecalling, rumors and exclusion and that women constitute the bulk of the bullies.”

“…Becausesomeelderly men and women see their independenceandsense ofcontroldisappearing, becomingabullycanfeel likeregainingsomeof thatlostpower.”

Selma’s friend, Betty, found this to be the case. When Betty finally disclosed details of her experience she said, “It started in the dining room. I’d wait to find someone to sit with. Some of the ladies would glare at me and whisper. Even if they had an open seat, they didn’t want me at their table. When I asked, one woman told me they didn’t like my flamboyant clothes and my waist-length braid. Another lady said that I wasn’t right for their group. Others whispered “Leftover Hippy” whenever I’d pass by. Then,

they spread this gossip around to others. Finally, I felt unwelcome everywhere.”

A Google search nets nearly 100 websites, blogs, articles and even YouTube testimonials describing bullying among the elderly and what staff at senior centers and residences can do about it. One senior community in California partnered with a local nonprofit Institute on Aging and together they developed an anti-bullying program designed for senior citizens in resident facilities.

Another community invited local rabbis, priests, ministers and chaplains to address bullying from a faith-based perspective. One chaplain cited Rabbi Elijah Dressler who writes, “From the perspective of Jewish ethics, passivity in the face of wrongdoing is almost as bad as committing the wrong.” Jewish tradition emphasizes that beyond helping someone deal with a problem like bullying, we are ethically bound to view another person’s problem as if it were our own. Selma did just that for Betty. If we observe bullying among the seniors, we can do the same.

For 10 years Rabbi Barbara Aiello served the Aviva Campus for Senior Life as resident rabbi. Currently as Aviva’s Rabbi Emerita she shares her experiences on Aging Jewishly. Contact her at Rabbi@Rabbi Barbara.com.

WHAT IGNITES YOUR CREATIVE SPARK?

It’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut … get your grills out!

By Chef Dalia

The evening of Wednesday, April 30 is Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day. This year marks 77 years since the country was first established in 1948.

For the last two years, festivities have more of a somber undertone — the events of Oct. 7, 2023, and Israel’s military actions in Gaza have put the country front and center on the world stage. In the face of lingering trauma and international criticism, though, locally we are still planning to celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut in style,

creating a space for celebration of Israeli culture while keeping the current state of the country and the hostages remaining in mind.

As with most days of importance, a lot of the celebrations revolve around food. In Israel, Yom Ha’Atzmaut is identified with barbecue, known in Hebrew as mangal. Herds of Israelis will set up a mobile grill station with folding tables and chairs in any empty spot in an over-crowded park, sidewalk or beach boardwalk. They will feast on kebabs (grilled meat patties), shishliks (chicken skewers), hummus, tahini and

many other varieties of salads. Disposable grills are found for sale all over the country for just this purpose. While the burgers are sizzling on the grill, it's the perfect occasion to enjoy quality time with friends and family. The holiday itself is the start of the Israeli grilling season, which lasts throughout the entire summer.

To be truly Israeli, you need to understand the culture of mangal, otherwise known as al ha-esh (on the fire) or barbecue. Drive around Israel on Yom Ha’Atzmaut and the most noticeable part of the national celebrations will be a cloud of smoke hovering over the country, from all the mangals in every park, forest, garden or balcony.

Everyone does it. Ashkenazi or Sephardic, everyone has a mangal at one point or another, but especially on Yom Ha’Atzmaut when the whole country has a day off without the restrictions of a religious holiday.

Most of the time, big, American-type grills are not used. Instead, a tiny portable, often disposable charcoal grill that cooks low to the ground is used. Look out for your knees, because crouching down over the grill is the way most Israelis cook.

Unfortunately, 24 years of American barbecue has rubbed off on me. Last year, I decided to celebrate the holiday at my house. My friends were pleasantly treated to a do-it-yourself hamburger and hot dog buffet. They loved it, but one year was enough of a departure from the custom. This year, we are back to the mangal. We are going to picnic and grill just like in Israel. I can’t wait for my husband to dust off the grill and lay down some of my own chicken shawarma shipudim (skewers) made from pargiot (boneless, skinless, dark meat chicken cutlets). Traditional shawarma is made from turkey. However, the pargiot version gives you the same taste, but is more tender. In the last few years, pargiot have become easier to find even in the U.S. They've been popular in

Israel for years. Pargiot are moist, tender, juicy and perfect for a Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebration at home. And, yes, my shawarma recipe tastes exactly like the shawarma I’ve had at street food vendors in Israel.

You can celebrate your own Israeli barbecue wherever you are, just like in Israel, with my chicken shawarma recipe. Then, pick a spot in a park or your backyard, play some Israeli music and invite some friends to join in the party. Yom Ha’Atzamaut Sameach!

Chicken Shawarma Skewers with Grilled Vegetables

Ingredients

For the chicken shawarma skewers:

5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon kosher salt

¾ teaspoon ground coriander

½ teaspoon allspice, optional

½ teaspoon sweet paprika

½ teaspoon garlic powder

12 skinless, boneless chicken thighs cut into 2-inch-thick pieces

For the grilled vegetables:

1 pound asparagus, trimmed

1 pound cherry tomatoes, stemmed

4 carrots, cut lengthwise in half

1 zucchini, cut into ½-inch slices

1 red onion, cut into wedges

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon kosher salt

¾ teaspoon ground coriander

½ teaspoon sweet paprika

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Directions

1. Soak one dozen bamboo skewers in warm water.

bowl, whisk together the olive oil, cumin, pepper, turmeric, salt, coriander, paprika and garlic powder. Blend until you have an even color.

3. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat, ensuring the spice rub gets into all the folds and crevices of the thighs. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 12 hours.

4. Skewer chicken on soaked bamboo skewers and set aside.

5. Make the grilled vegetables: Preheat grill to medium high heat.

6. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, turmeric, garlic, paprika, salt and pepper.

7. Brush olive oil mixture onto the asparagus, tomatoes, carrots, zucchini and red onion. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.

8. Transfer vegetables to a grill bas place basket onto the grill. Cook, turning occasionally, until vegetables are lightly burnt all over, about 10-12 minutes. Set aside.

9. Cook the chicken on the grill over medium-high heat until almost smoking. Cook the chicken until golden with crispy edges, 5-6 minutes per side.

10. Transfer grilled shawarma skewers to a platter with grilled vegetables. Drizzle with tahini and parsley.

11. Serve right away, with harissa (if using) on the side. Or lightly toast pitas and stuff them with hummus tahini and Israeli salad. Personal Chef Dalia Hemed can

2. Marinate the chicken: In a medium

Putin, the murderer; Romeo & Juliet; Rudd is cool, more Stars of David

By Nate Bloom, Stars of David Contributing Columnist

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

“Words of War”

This biographical film, which opens in theaters on May 2, covers much of the career of Anna Politkovskaya (“Anna P;” 1958-2009). She was a Russian journalist and human rights activist.

She made the Putin regime very angry by persistently reporting on the conflict within Chechnya. Chechnya is a region in Russia, the country. But the Chechens are not ethnic Russians, and they wanted independence. A vicious conflict between Russia and Chechen rebels went on from 1999-2009.

Anna P. reported war atrocities in Chechnya committed by Russians and Chechens. She also tried to expose corruption within Russia. She continued reporting in the face of poisoning, intimidation and violence. In 2009, she was murdered in the elevator of her building. Five years later, several men were convicted for murdering her. But they never revealed who paid them to kill Anna P.

Maxine Peake, a British actress, plays Anna and British Jewish actor Jason Isaacs, 61, plays Alexander Politkovsky, Anna’s husband. Alexander is a Russian journalist, too.

“Juliet & Romeo”

You might remember that, in my February 2025 column, I said Jason Isaacs was “busy.” I said that because Issacs was a co-star in the new season of “The White Lotus” series (HBO) and he had a big role in a musical film entitled “Verona’s Romeo & Juliet” (which was set to open Feb. 14). Well, last February, “they” pulled the movie, at the last moment, from theaters.

The film will finally be released on May 9. It’s been renamed and is now titled “Juliet & Romeo.” The film’s gimmick is that it is set in the 16th century (Romeo and Juliet’s “time”), but the songs are modern rock songs.

Frankly, I think “Romeo & Juliet” will not be a critical or popular hit but read the reviews on May 10 and make up your own mind.

“Friendship”

This comedy/drama opens in theaters on May 9. It stars Tim Robinson as a “jerky” guy and Paul Rudd, 55, as a “cool” guy who moves into a home next to Robinson. They become friends — at least for a long time.

I have read full reviews of the film and, frankly, it takes so many plot turns that I just have to stop here and say that it’s too complicated to summarize. “Friendship” played the Toronto Film Festival and reviews were, overall, sort of good — but nobody was in love with this film.

“The Last Rodeo”

The premise of “The Last Rodeo,” a drama that will open in theaters on May 23, is this: to save his grandson, a retired rodeo star (Neal McDonough) enters a high stakes bull riding competition. Along the way, he confronts his past and discovers the power of faith and family.

McDonough co-wrote the film. Jon Avnet , 75, who directed the film, is McDonough’s co-writer. Avenet began his showbiz career as a producer and his first film was a huge hit (“Risky Business,” 1983).

The first film he directed, “Fried Green Tomatoes,” (1991) was a huge hit, too. He has directed about 10 more films (some hits, some flops), and he has also directed and produced quite a few TV series.

You might have come across Avnet electronics, a big company still very much in business. It was founded by Jon’s grandfather, and it was run by Jon’s father for a time. The Avnet family no longer controls the company. They were bought out (for “mucho gelt”) years ago.

And here’s a Hollywood shocker: Jon will celebrate his 50th wedding anniversary in 2025. He’s married to his one and only Jewish wife, artist Barbara Brody Avnet. They have three (adult) children.

“Duster”

The first season (eight episodes) of the “Duster” series premieres May 15 on HBO/Max. Set in the southwest in the 1970s, it explores the life of a gutsy getaway driver for a growing crime syndicate. Josh Holloway stars as Jim, “the driver,” and Rachel Hilson co-stars as Nina, an African American FBI agent who is tasked with taking down the crime syndicate.

The series was co-created by JJ Abrams, 58, and he is the principal producer. He has produced and co-created scores of hit series and films (his films and TV series have made billions). Just “Google him” for all his credits in every genre you can think of.

JJ Abrams is also a loyal friend. His high school buddy is actor Greg Grunberg, 58. Grunberg shows up in many Abrams films and TV series. He has a mid-size role in “Duster,” playing Abbott. (I'm not sure if Abbott is a good or bad guy).

Waltham, MA (March 10, 2025)

– A groundbreaking new study from the Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies (CMJS) at Brandeis University highlights the transformative impact of Birthright Israel across generations. For the first time, the study reveals how the effects of the program extend beyond participants to their children, finding that the children of participants, compared to the children of those who applied but did not participate are significantly more likely to have had formative Jewish experiences. The research shows that participants are not only more likely to marry Jewish partners but also more likely to pass Jewish traditions and values to their children.

Most notably, the study provides new evidence that Birthright influences how the children of participants are being raised. Due in part to Birthright’s impact on partner choice, children of Birthright participants are more likely to be raised as Jews, more likely to have had a Jewish circumcision or naming ceremony, and more likely to be enrolled in Jewish education compared to the children of nonparticipants. Additionally, regardless of their partner choice (whether Jewish or non-Jewish), Birthright participants are more likely to raise children who celebrate a bar or bat mitzvah.

The study tracks the long-term outcomes of Birthright participants from multiple cohorts and demonstrates that the effects of the program extend far beyond the individuals who participated.

As the children of Birthright alumni grow older, they are more likely to be raised in Jewish households with higher rates of Jewish education, involvement in Jewish rituals, and the celebration of key milestones.

Prof. Leonard Saxe of Brandeis University, whose team conducted the study, noted, “We have been surveying the same group of individuals — those who participated in the program and similar peers who applied but did not go — since 2009. We have looked at how our panel members’ lives evolve as they age and the decisions they have made about family formation and engagement in Jewish life. What we have consistently found is that Birthright’s

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impact continues after the program ends and even for decades later.”

The new study reveals that, compared to their peers who applied to Birthright Israel but never participated:

• 84% of Birthright Israel alumni are raising their children exclusively Jewish, regardless of their spouse’s background.

• Birthright Israel alumni are 122% more likely to celebrate their child’s bar or bat mitzvah.

• Birthright Israel alumni are 65% more likely to send their children to Jewish sleepaway camp.

• Birthright Israel alumni are 50% more likely to enroll their children in Jewish day camps.

• Birthright Israel alumni are 44% more likely to place their children in Jewish supplementary education programs.

• Birthright Israel alumni have a 21% higher likelihood of providing their children with formal Jewish education.

• Birthright Israel alumni have a 42% higher likelihood of providing their children with informal Jewish experiences.

“These findings confirm the far-reaching benefits of Birthright Israel, demonstrating its lasting impact on Jewish engagement across generations,” said Birthright Israel CEO Gidi Mark. “Birthright Israel is the most powerful investment in securing the Jewish future. With over 900,000 participants, we are witnessing an intergenerational ripple effect ... This study proves that

Birthright Israel is not just a journey; it’s a catalyst for strengthening Jewish identity, deepening connections to Jewish traditions, and fostering a lifelong bond with Israel.”

Additional findings include:

• Birthright Israel alumni have a 49% higher likelihood of having a Jewish spouse.

• Birthright Israel alumni have a 100% higher likelihood of being “very connected” to Israel.

• Birthright Israel alumni have a 53% higher likelihood of having mostly Jewish friends.

• Birthright Israel alumni have a 26% higher likelihood of being a member of a synagogue.

• Birthright Israel alumni have a 100% higher likelihood of having chaired a Jewish event.

• Birthright Israel alumni have a 150% higher likelihood of being an officer on the board of a Jewish organization.

• Birthright Israel alumni have a 42% higher likelihood of usually having a special Shabbat meal.

• 35% of Birthright Israel alumni have returned to Israel.

Over the 25 years of Birthright Israel’s existence, the organization hosted more than 900,000 young Jewish adults from 70 countries in Israel through thousands of trips and extended programs.

To review the full study, please visit https://www.brandeis.edu/cmjs/ birthright/jewish-futures/jewish-futures2024.html.

More Than Elder Care – We Do it All

Expert post-surgical transporation: Orthopedic, plastic, and more

Dedicated care to prevent complications and infections

Short-term and long-term care options

Available 24-7 for all ages and needs

Services Include

• Private discharge planning

• Respite care

• Evaluation

• Education

• Errands

• Ambulation

• Personal care

• Medicine management/Prescription refill

• Meal preparation

• Doctor’s appointments/Transporation

• Light housekeeping

• Occupational/Vestibular/Vision therapy

Credit: Courtesy of Birthright Israel

From Naples to Mars via Israel

By Mara Fahl

Naples philanthropist David Braverman sees his investments in Israel’s future as investments for all of humanity. With an eye toward the next frontier, he and his brother, Steve, have played a pivotal role in the opening of a Jewish National FundUSA Tech Hub in the southern Israeli desert city of Mitzpe Ramon.

The Tech Hub is an integral part of the organization’s vision of developing Israel’s south into a vibrant population center. Thanks to that support, and their belief that Mitzpe Ramon has the potential to become the space capital of the Middle East, the brothers were recently invited to meet with Israel’s President, Isaac Herzog

The Bravermans, together with Jewish National Fund-USA Business Development Director Oren Hefetz, sat with the president to discuss the future of Israeli technology and development, and the importance of both philanthropic and industry investments in the nation. David shared that they had the opportunity to discuss their involvement with Jewish

National Fund-USA and their commitment to high-tech ventures with dual value, that is, applications both here on Earth and eventually in space and on other planets.

“He has a great vision for Israel and is a great supporter of space and other high-tech ventures,” David said of the president. “I look forward to keeping

in touch and updating him on all our endeavors in Israel.”

“It’s a great time to invest in Israel,” shared Hefetz, “and President Herzog wanted the opportunity to thank David and Steve for their commitment both in the nonprofit and for-profit sectors.” Hefetz explained that due to geologic similarities, the remote city of Mitzpe

Ramon is uniquely primed to become a center for space innovation and technology and that visionaries like the Bravermans are already proving instrumental in assisting the city in reaching its full potential.

The Braverman family, many of whom are based in Naples, has long been a believer in the city, and when the Tech Hub first opened, Steve shared their view that “it represents new opportunities for development and growth of Israel.”

Jewish National FundUSA’s work in Mitzpe Ramon creates a circle of impact that serves its ultimate vision of building the Negev region in southern Israel and attracting 500,000 new residents to the area. Through strategic initiatives such as the Mitzpe Ramon Tech Hub, they bring jobs, infrastructure and a higher quality of life that make regional growth possible.

For David and Steve, this meeting represents a launch pad for future collaboration between their family, Jewish National Fund-USA, and the state of Israel in lifting up every part of the country to new heights.

Dorio

Doron Landau, Irael Biran, Oren Hefetz, President Isaac Herzog, Steve Braverman and David Braverman Credit: Jewish National Fund-USA

WRabbi Mark Wm. Gross

hy are there so many June brides? It is because of a backlog in weddings prompted by an ancient Roman superstition that May is an ill-omened month for new beginnings. That conviction persisted in European culture for centuries: Sir Walter Scott records the Scots proverb “marry in May, rue the day.”

The source of the May constraint on celebrations is not evil spirits, but rather seasonal pragmatics. Throughout the northern hemisphere this is the time of year when every member of the community is completely involved in the arduous business of harvesting and storing away the ripened grain. That is why in the Jewish calendar we refer to the seven-week period between Passover (when the first stalks of grain ripen) and Shavuot (when a tenth of the finished grain harvest was brought to Jerusalem in thanks to God) is referred to as the season of Omer: “bringing in the sheaves.”

So, it is not surprising that in the Jewish tradition, we also forego weddings during the Omer season. However, what is noteworthy is that our reason for doing so is not superstitious concern over bad luck for the individual, but rather a solemn memorialization of a collective geopolitical misfortune that already befell our people long ago. As the rabbis of the Talmud explain it, our avoidance of weddings during the Omer season is a gesture of mourning for “the disciples of Rabbi ‘Aqiva,’ who died from Passover until Shavuot.”

The reference is to the highly influential second century teacher Aqiva ben-Joseph, who almost single-handedly shaped the Judaism we practice. It is because this rabbi lent his significant prestige to Shim’on bar-Kochba that the uprising against Rome in 133 C.E. was initially successful. But with tiny Judaea no match for the legions of the empire, this last desperate effort for national independence was quickly and brutally crushed by the soldiers of Hadrian. The

last-stand fortress of Beitar fell in a savage and bloody campaign in the spring of 135, at which time our forebears trampled in that onslaught “died from Passover until Shavuot.”

Note that the sages of the Talmud are using circumlocution as a kind of code. Teaching and writing in an era when we were still under Roman domination, and after three ill-conceived uprisings against the Roman Empire, any nationalistic sentiment in rabbinic literature is going to have to be couched in terms of periphrasis. So, it is that the rebel leader Bar-Kochba is not mentioned by name, and the rebels who fought and died under him are referred to as “disciples of Rabbi ‘Aqiva.’”

We have often been forced to communicate in code, because our Jewish sacred writing continued to be subject to external review and censorship for many centuries. When we sing Aleinu l’Shabei’ach at the end of every service, few Ashkenazic Jews realize that they are missing two lines of that prayer, excised by church authorities in the 13th century.

We have often been forced tocommunicateincode, because our Jewish sacred writingcontinuedtobe subjecttoexternalreview andcensorshipfor manycenturies.

From an early era, rabbinic literature in Midrash and Talmud employs semisecret code, as using the name “Eisav” (the inimical older twin brother of our patriarch Jacob) to denote first the Roman Empire, and in later years the church. We even self-censor, as when the rabbis writing moralistically about due punishment coming to us for some misdeed refer instead to it befalling “the enemies of Israel.”

What is marvelous about all this, is that Jewish tradition reflects both honesty and creativity in confronting the experiences of our fabulously ancient history. Ours is a resilient people, with a vibrant literary heritage that challenges the imagination even as it uplifts the soul — in May, or any other month.

Rabbi Mark Wm. Gross serves at Jewish Congregation of Marco Island.

ASteve

McCloskey President

bout six months ago, our beloved Jane Galler lost her battle with the ravages of her final illness. Her indomitable will and irrepressible spirit strengthened her until the very end. The Greater Naples Jewish community has lost one of the finest goodwill ambassadors for Judaism ever in our midst.

Galler exemplified the best of Judaism. She was a fierce advocate for justice and equality for all. Her heart and soul were brimming over with grace and compassion for others, always striving to better the lives of those she touched. She was

warmth all over Greater Naples. She was a luminous presence who lit up every room with her vivacious personality.

Unconditionally upbeat, Galler had an insatiable zest for life. She was an unabashed and unapologetic feminist, always advocating for the female voice. She was fearless, whether fighting her illness or taking on something she had never done before. Effervescence and unfailing kindness were the key ingredients of Galler’s “secret sauce.” She was endowed with a life force multiplier that we do not see very often. We could feel her loving embrace in all that she did. To know Galler was to love her.

Everyone who is a cantor or cantorial soloist brings something unique to her or his role. Galler’s special abilities when leading NJC in song were twofold. First was her r’uach and her range of emotion that she brought to the bima. Whether

imbued with a quiet humility, always evident in her interactions with others.

Galler and I shared the common bond of becoming Jews by choice in our adulthood. Galler totally immersed herself in Judaism. She joined the choir of a temple, where she met Alla Gorelik, NJC’s music and choir director and accompanist. Gorelik, recognizing Galler’s talent and unbridled enthusiasm for all things Jewish, taught Galler to be a cantorial soloist. Galler joyfully and lovingly served as our cantorial soloist for over 25 years. She often led our Shabbat services when Rabbi Herman was not scheduled, leading us in prayer and song while always delivering a thoughtful and engaging message.

Galler played and performed all over the Greater Naples area. She was literally everywhere you went, doing something to generously spread her love for Judaism. She advanced knowledge of Judaism by teaching Hebrew school and nursery school, and she had an uncanny knack for befriending everyone she touched on a very personal level. In a world full of incandescent bulbs, Galler was a LED strobe light, shining her radiance and

playfully belting out “L’cha Dodi” to her own arrangement or singing her searingly soulful rendition of Janowski’s “Avinu Malkeinu,” she was in her element. Second, Galler always showcased her brand of joyful Judaism, seeking to engage our congregation in uplifting music.

Leonard Cohen had a famous quote: “There’s a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.” Galler was our light who invariably found a way to help us with our cracks. Although small in stature, she was huge of heart, and she was an indispensable part of our “small congregation with the big heart.”

We know that it is impossible to replace such a singularly beloved Jewish voice. What we have done is found an accomplished retired rabbi cantor, a talented cantorial soloist and a wonderful cantor to lead us in song this coming year, all of which will be detailed in the June issue of Federation Star

Let us honor Jane Galler’s legacy by living our lives as she did, with love in our hearts and with grace and compassion to lift others up.

YEARS,

Yom HaShoah and Oct. 7, 2023

ADeborah Rosen Fidel, JD, MAJPS Executive Director

lmost immediately after the first reports started to come out about the high number of civilians murdered in cold blood on Oct. 7, 2023, it was said to be the largest massacre of Jewish people since the Holocaust. As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told U.S. President Joe Biden, “It was the worst act of antisemitic violence since the Holocaust … like Anne Frank, Jewish children hid in attics from these monsters, and they were found and butchered.”

When President Biden visited Israel on Oct. 18, 2023, he too referenced the Nazis when he promised the U.S. would

At Beth Tikvah

MShelley Goodman

ay is upon us and most of our winter residents have left to resume their lives up north. Goodbyes are always difficult, especially when hellos are not guaranteed. We wish our snowbirds a healthy summer and hope to see them return again next year.

Beth Tikvah just completed a season filled with music. Throughout this year, we were invited to share our love of music in its many different forms. There were five programs specifically devoted to music, making this a very special year. We began with visiting Hazzan Andres A Levy who conducted a musical weekend in November, setting the tone for our theme “Music and Beth Tikvah.” Music and community continued when Rabbi David Arias from Temple Judea of Fort Myers spoke as our third

not abandon Jews to genocidal enemies for a second time in living memory. Likewise, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the Hamas attack had “harrowing echoes” of the Holocaust.

The similarities are indeed jarring. Jewish communities were decimated as hundreds of Jews were murdered by killing squads. Jewish mothers hid with their babies with no food or water, praying not to be discovered. Ruthless butchers took aim at close range at entire families, including children. Hundreds were burned alive.

So, it is not hard to understand why the barbarous slaughter of unarmed innocents draws upon our people’s collective memory of the Shoah, which is deeply etched into the Jewish psyche. Holocaust images and themes lurk in the individual and collective consciousness of Israelis and Jews worldwide, serving as our default frame of reference for a catastrophe befalling the Jewish people.

The three emaciated hostages who returned home in February, after 16 months of captivity, conjured up images of concentration camp survivors. Seeing Shiri Bibas embrace her children, Ariel and Kfir in a blanket, helpless and terrified before they were taken away by masked terrorists and brutally murdered, recalls the darkest chapter in Jewish history.

The failure of the Jewish state to protect them in that moment seems to mock our oath, “Never again.” Zionism was supposed to be the answer to the Shoah, not the latest iteration of it. That is why the images of helpless victims cowering in fright, being slaughtered in their pajamas so unmoored Israelis, whose self-image is built around providing a safe haven for Jews.

The history of the Jewish people is not merely one of expulsions and terror, but of rebirth after these events, rising from the dust and hoping for better times to come. Yes, we have suffered, but the

speaker in our lecture series. His strong and vibrant voice and shared learnings made this a wonderful event.

For our Scholar in Residence weekend in February, Cantor Stuart Simon, retired from Northfield, Illinois, led us in a weekend of music and study that ended with a concert of many kinds of music.

In March, Daniel Weiser brought Amici’s music back to our congregation with a Jewish Jazz presentation.

The month of March culminated with a visit from Cantor David Edwards from Toronto, Canada, who led us in services with his beautiful voice and unique style. We sang and prayed together throughout the season.

The Phil Jason Lecture Series showcased several excellent speakers who educated and entertained us with their wisdom on a variety of topics from medically generated genocide of the Holocaust to the world’s present and possible future political situation. We are appreciative of all the presenters who willingly contributed their time and expertise.

Rabbi Chorny taught a series of classes titled “Technological Transformations

Federation Star Publication Policy

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

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

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

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

and Halakhic Responses.” He shared insights into the revolutionary changes brought about through technological advancements and re-evaluations of fundamental concepts.

This year, the Naples Jewish Film Festival was held on the five Sundays in March. The festival films covered immigration, a love story, a family crisis on Shabbat, relationship issues and a Holocaust story. Each film left sold-out audiences with questions and many conversations.

The highlight of April for Beth Tikvah was the celebration of Passover. Once again both members and non-members gathered to celebrate under the guidance of Rabbi Chorny and his family. More than 60 people heard the telling of the Passover story while socializing and enjoying the companionship of the community at a kosher Seder. Thanks to Cheff Herb and his staff for making this evening run seamlessly and to Sabrina Stroble for her hard work in overseeing this event.

Though our numbers decline with the end of season, Beth Tikvah continues to provide programs for the congregation and the Greater Naples community.

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

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

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

Jewish story is about so much more. The survivors of the Shoah had all the reasons in the world to give in to despair, but they did exactly the opposite. At their lowest point, they rebuilt their families, their communities and established the state of Israel. Similarly, Oct. 7, 2023, was a terrible blow seared into our personal and national memories. Since that day, we have seen antisemitism spike around the world, but we must not allow the ongoing trauma to overshadow the extraordinary achievements of 3,000 years of Jewish history and 77 years of sovereignty in our ancient homeland, with our own army and government. The Jewish people are no longer powerless, and we have allies. After this war, Israel and world Jewry will rebound with renewed vigor and vibrance. We are already seeing an unprecedented surge of interest and energy in Israeli civic society and American Jewish institutions. We will continue to write more chapters in our own Jewish story.

Throughout the summer months, please refer to our website for more information on events sponsored by Beth Tikvah. Go online to our website, www.bethtikvah naples.org, contact us at office@beth tikvah.us or call 239-434-1818. All Beth Tikvah events are open to the Greater Naples community. We hope you will come and celebrate with us by reserving at office@bethtikvah.us.

If you are interested in learning more about our services, clergy or congregation, please contact the office or Rabbi Chorny. We would love the opportunity to meet you and share our family with you.

Religious services schedule

• Friday services – 6:15 p.m. • Saturday services – 9:30 a.m., concluding with a Kiddush luncheon We convene Yahrzeit minyanim upon request.

We are located at 1459 Pine Ridge Road. You may reach Rabbi Chorny directly at 239-537-5257.

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

Note: Items of controversial opinions and points of view about political issues will not be accepted for publication without prior approval of a majority of the Federation Officers and Trustees. All persons and organizations objecting to the actions and rulings of the Editor or Publications Committee Chair shall have the right to appeal those rulings to the Officers and Board of Trustees of JFGN.

National Jewish American Heritage Month

Who is a Jewish American, and why is it essential that we mark this very important month?

TMarina Berkovich JHSSWF President

hree hundred sixty years ago, a small group of Jews landed on the island of Manhattan.

In 1763, after passing from Spain to England, Jews were first allowed to settle in Florida. By 1860, the Jewish population of the United States increased tenfold to reached 150,000.

According to 2020 Pew Research, 67% of the 7.5 million of American Jewry identify as Ashkenazi or European (except from the Iberian Peninsula) descent. Sephardim, or those descendant from the Iberian Peninsula Jewry, are next at 3%. Mizrahim, also known as Jews of the Orient or Jews of the East, are only

1%. Another 6% identified as a genetic composition of the above. That totals about 77%. What about the rest? Well, 25% chose the option “do not identify with any particular category” while the remaining 3% fell into this survey’s abyss.

The month of May is Jewish American Heritage Month, and it is a truly appropriate time to contemplate and celebrate our Jewish ancestry, affiliations and affinity, regardless of which place in this or any other survey one may be slotted into.

The best conceptual understanding of Judaism as religion and culture ever conveyed to me was that it defies definitions and limitations. That thought came from my Jewish history professor way back in the early 1980s, when my alma mater, Queens College, City University of New York, was a safe harbor for Jews and Jewish learning. I entered it as a confused teen, lost in the multitude of unanswered questions, after having grown up in the antisemitic environment of Kiev

and U.S.S.R. in denial of everything else Jews kept alive despite history’s turmoil. This is, sadly, reminiscent of what is now overtaking so many U.S. institutions of higher learning.

By my college graduation, thanks to the many wise academicians and countless Jewish support staff and peers, I learned to become Jewish not out of surviving antisemitism, but out of appreciation for Jewish resilience and diversity. As we moved through centuries and lands, protecting our cultural, religious and national essence, we each learned our version of being Jewish. My version may not be yours, and vice versa, but in the end, we are all Jews.

American Jews of all colors and languages, American born or not, matzo ball or hummus eating or not, Shabbat observing or not, need each and every one of the 15 million Jewish persons to unite their voices as one. What better time to do it than during the month of May, when

in addition to Jewish American Heritage Month, we also celebrate Israel?

My personal dream is that friends and relations who have become too caught up in polarized intolerance will find it in their hearts to remember that we are all one and repair the damage that is keeping us apart. Just as at any difficult or trying time in history, we cannot fulfill our job of healing the world until we heal ourselves first, globally, regionally, locally.

Learn more about local Jewish history by participating in discussions and attending our future presentations and events. Your membership and generous support help us in our work. Sign up to receive announcements, reminders and news by email. Donate online, mail or contact us at office@jhsswf.org.

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

...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.

Make my eyes look to the future

From two nurses to a global organization

CDiane Schwartz, Presidents Council for Collier/Lee Chapter

hange can impact so many aspects of our lives. Maturing or coming into “our own” some would say. Founded 113 years ago, Hadassah's first effort for pre-state Israel was to send two nurses to treat those with trachoma, an eye disease. Through two world wars and the war for Israel's independence, Hadassah grew and matured. Our volunteer leaders and members followed the words of Founder Henrietta Szold when she said to a sculptor, “Make my eyes look to the future.” Through our social, educational and Jewish values, and learning through research, Hadassah did look to the future.

Hadassah now focuses on advancing global health care and medicine; Connecting members to Israel and Zionism and advocating our values. Supported by generous donors in the United States and around the world, the Hadassah Medical Organization’s (HMO) two Jerusalem hospitals — Mount Scopus and Ein Karem — are innovative and compassionate global leaders in medical care, treatments and research serving more than a million women, men and children a year, regardless of religion, race or nationality. I am sure you have heard of these hospitals; however, they have grown and changed over time.

Hadassah International was established in 1983 as the global arm of Hadassah outside of the United States. It consists of groups of men and women, of many faiths, around the world who raise money to support Hadassah’s outstanding Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO).

Recipient of a 2025 Newsweek medical award, HMO oversees world-class research, clinical care, and education at Hadassah-Hebrew University Hospital campuses in Jerusalem. At the Mount Scopus Campus, The Gandel Rehabilitation Center was initially funded with a most generous gift from the Australian Gandel Family Foundation. It was under construction when the tragic Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attack occurred. Hadassah Medical Organization leadership accelerated the schedule to open the facility to serve the needs of the country.

When completed, the 26,000-squaremeter, eight-story Gandel Rehabilitation Center will care for 10,000 patients annually in four in-patient’s units with a total of 140 beds — a 250% increase for HMO — and an out-patient clinic able to serve 250 patients a day. The Gandel Rehabilitation Center will offer a host of the latest and most advanced specialized treatments along with physical and occupational therapy, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, respiratory and orthopedic rehabilitation. There will be a PTSD center and rehabilitation for neurological problems caused by brain, spinal cord and nervous system injuries. Our Collier/Lee Chapter raised more than $93,000 for the Gandel Rehabilitation Center during its February Inspiring Women event.

The Linda Joy Pollin Cardiovascular Wellness Center for Women raises awareness of women's distinctive heart attack presentation and undertakes successful outreach to high-risk Jewish and Arab women. The Linda Joy Pollin Cardiovascular Wellness Center for Women is actively engaged in research and education concerning gender health issues, as well as advocacy for women’s health.

Using stem cell research, HMO doctors and researchers are rapidly developing

continued on page 37

Collier/Lee Hadassah welcomes new members Doris Parker, Naples and Jan Klein, Fort Myers

Program Vice President Shelly Einhorn, Education Vice President Julie Shlensky, and "Coffee and Chocolate" chairs Susan Yale and Judit Price

Collier/Lee Hadassah recognizes Life Members at spring luncheon.

Jewish life on FGCU campus as strong as ever

Lots of students are excited to celebrate and enjoy being Jewish.

By Rabbi Mendel Gordon

We had our largest Purim celebrations this year, with a special comedy performance from the FGCU Improv Club. In addition, we had our annual big Shabbat on campus, drawing over 50 students.

For Sara, it was her very first Shabbat experience — and she absolutely loved the warmth, the connections and the uplifting atmosphere.

For Alex, it marked his first Jewish involvement since his bar mitzvah.

And for Grant, a student who just arrived on campus this semester, it was a heartfelt welcome into the FGCU Jewish family.

One of our student-athletes, Shachar, inspired everyone as he shared his journey of Jewish growth on campus — how he puts on tefillin daily and even brought tefillin with him on his spring break trip to Puerto Rico, encouraging a friend to put it on as well.

Our club president, Nichole, who experienced her very first Shabbat just two years ago when she came to college, shared a powerful message: While we may be a small Jewish community on campus, we are part of something much greater — a strong and extraordinary nation that spans the world.

Another highlight of March was a special field trip to the local mikvah in

look to the future...continued from page 36

new treatments and cures for diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), age-related macular degeneration, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and diabetes. With continued help from our generous donors, we hope to have new options for patients. Researchers developed

a new approach to Alzheimer’s disease, creating a cognitive health mobile app to achieve faster diagnosis and earlier intervention. What would Henrietta Szold say if she were with us today? Perhaps, “Keep looking to the future! Together we can heal the world.”

SAVE THESE DATES

April 23 – The Collaboration presents a program sponsored by Temple Shalom and Collier/Lee Hadassah.

“Antisemitism: How it Impacts Us II,” presented by Rabbi Ariel Boxman and Gail Marks Jarvis will take place in the Sacks Room at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

May 5 – A Cookie Swap Celebration. The Collier/Lee Chapter is hosting a party to recognize the 43rd anniversary of the chapter receiving its charter and service to our communities.

July 14 – We will enjoy a pot-luck book swap.

Dec. 14 – Join us for brunch as we welcome Hadassah National President Carol Ann Schwartz to the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. All are welcome to enjoy this unique opportunity.

For further information, email collierleehadassah@gmail.com.

Cape Coral. Students were fascinated to learn about the importance of mikvah in Jewish tradition and its integrity to a Jewish marriage — so much so that you can mortgage a synagogue to ensure a community has a mikvah.

We discussed how mikvah is for any woman in a Jewish marriage and even for those post childbearing age can have this special opportunity to do this mitzvah once.

Rivky of the Cape Coral Chabad, who runs the mikvah, shared with us that the local mikvah has become very busy. Many of the regulars find the mitzvah of mikvah easier to take on than other mitzvahs because it brings Judaism to your private

life in a beautiful way that doesn't affect your social life at all.

A big thank you for giving a tour to our students.

Chabad services Jewish students of all levels of observance at FGCU, FSW and other college age students in the area. If you know any Jewish students at FGCU or other nearby colleges, please reach out to connect them with the local Jewish student community.

For more information or to help make that connection, reach out to me at Rabbi@chabadfgcu.com or call 239355-8481.

Hadassah Associates Jack Wiadro, Ed Ezrine and Paul Budnick (right) with speaker Dr. Karen Ezrine

BBYO

azabbg.bbyo.org/on-demand/home

Updates from Naples and Fort Myers BBYO

By Cayla Schreier, BBYO Southwest Coordinator

Although March was a quieter month for Naples BBYO due to SAT testing and spring break, the teens were able to meet with one another several times to socialize and practice Tikkun Olam with their peers and other members of the local Jewish community.

On Tuesday, March 11, the teens participated in Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties’ Purim celebration by delivering Purim Shalach Manot to elderly Jewish residents at an assisted living facility in Bonita Springs. The teens were able to bring Purim joy as they connected with the Jewish residents they met. The Shalach Manot goodie bags contained handwritten cards from young Jewish children in our local community, juice, trail mix, and of course, the best part, delicious hamantaschen. Thank you for including Naples BBYO in such a wonderful Tikkun Olam event.

On Sunday, March 16, the teens went to Cone 06 Pottery Painting Studio to express their creativity by designing and painting pottery pieces. The teens each chose a specific pottery item to paint and put their artistic skills and imagination to work. Each teen painted unique pieces and is excited to retrieve their pottery soon.

Naples BBYO attended the North Florida Region’s Spring Regional Convention between March 28 and March 30, connecting with BBYO friends from across the North Florida Region while celebrating Shabbat, Havdalah and participating in regional elections.

The NFR teens had the opportunity to hear from Lior Shitrit, a 21-year-old survivor of the Oct. 7, 2023. attack at the Nova Festival. Shitrit shared his personal

story, recounting his escape from the festival and subsequent drive to a nearby Kibbutz, where he and many others were attacked by Hamas terrorists. In a small, confined safe room, Shitrit hid with more than two dozen others while under attack, offering aid to a fellow Israeli who had been injured by the terrorists. Despite the immense personal tragedy of losing his best friend, Guy, in the attacks, Shitrit has dedicated himself to educating audiences across the United States about the horrors of Oct. 7, 2023, ensuring that the stories of those impacted are heard and remembered. We were grateful for the opportunity to hear his story and remain committed to spreading the truth about what happened on that fateful day.

We hope you all have a wonderful summer. Stay safe and see you in the fall!

Upcoming events

More details on all upcoming events to follow. Please keep an eye out for emails regarding all upcoming Naples and Fort Myers BBYO events.

What is BBYO?

BBYO is a diverse and inclusive Jewish youth group to encourage Jewish teens to become more immersed and interested in meaningful Jewish activities and programs. This organization accepts Jewish teens attending 8th through 12th grades of all backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender, race, denominational

affiliation or socioeconomic status. BBYO currently reaches over 70,000 teens worldwide, with participants in over 60 countries and hundreds of chapters across the United States.

Supporting our teenage Jewish community

It is crucial to engage teens post-B’nai Mitzvah age in Jewish activities. Having teens get involved in BBYO and be eager to create and confidently continue their own Jewish community within their greater Jewish communities is critical to our future.

The BBYO chapter of Naples has entered its 11th year of partnership with Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, Temple Shalom, Chabad of Naples, and Beth Tikvah. Each organization provides financial support, volunteers and community involvement opportunities for the BBYO teens. We thank each and every one of our BBYO Alum, friends and other supporters for making this a safe and positive environment for the teens of BBYO Naples and Fort Myers.

If you know of someone who has a teen who might like to join BBYO Naples or Fort Myers or know of someone who may want to be an advisor to our chapters, please email me at cschreier@bbyo.org. You can also follow us on Instagram at @Mishpacha_BBG and @Negevaza. Scholarships to attend BBYO conventions and summer programs are available through both Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and the Temple Shalom Men’s Club. Please contact me for more information on scholarships. If you are a BBYO Alum and would like to be included in our Friends and Alumni of BBYO mailing list, please email us at mjs0821@aol.com.

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

Shabbat Services

Friday 7:30 p.m.

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

Rabbi’s Lifelong Learning Series

Sidney R. Hoffman Jewish Film Festival

Saul I. Stern Cultural Series JCMI Book Club

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION (Reform)

Services are held at: The Unitarian Congregation 6340 Napa Woods Way

Rabbi Howard Herman 431.3858

Email: rabbi@naplesjewishcongregation.org www.naplesjewishcongregation.org

Steve McCloskey, President

Shabbat Services

Friday evenings 7 p.m.

May - August: services once a month

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

BETH TIKVAH (Conservative)

1459 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34109

(just west of Mission Square Plaza)

Phone: 434.1818

Email: office@bethtikvah.us

Website: www.bethtikvahnaples.org

Rabbi Ammos Chorny

Shelley Goodman, President Roberta Miller, Secretary

Shabbat Services

Friday evenings 6:15 p.m.

Saturday mornings 9:30 a.m.

Youth Education

Adult Education

Community Events

Kosher catering by Chef Herb

Jewish

Federation of Greater Naples Presents THE ISRAEL FRIENDSHIP PERFORMANCE

Israeli teen singers and performers are coming to Naples in July! SAVE THE DATES: JULY 23 & 24

Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center

Time of evening performances will be announced soon, along with registration.

THE ISRAEL FRIENDSHIP group is made up of fi ve girls, fi ve boys and two leaders from all over Israel. In order to be in the group, these teenagers (16 and 17 years old) went through a highly competitive selection process and were chosen based on their maturity, fl uency in English and performance skills.

Israel Friendship is big in Israel, with over 60,000 members. Those chosen to participate here are selected for their ability to best represent the State of Israel. As Israeli delegates, these bright, dynamic and high energy teens have a love for Israel and a desire to share that with North Americans. They spend the 10 weeks of summer performing in synagogues and churches, schools and summer camps, even nursing homes – wherever people want to share their love for Israel.

They will have you singing and dancing in your seat and, if you are lucky, dancing with them. Save the dates and watch for future details and registration options.

OF GREATER NAPLES