YOM HA’ATZMAUT
Israel Independence Day
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SUNDAY, APRIL 26 • 1PM – 4PM FEDERATION CAMPUS • 580 MCINTOSH RD, SARASOTA
SEE THE AD ON PAGE 2A
Celebrating Jewish Life in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Israel and the World FEDERATION NEWS
Serving our community since 1971!
Published by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee www.jfedsrq.org
April 2015 - Nisan/Iyar 5775 INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
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Volume 45, Number 4
Professor Alan Dershowitz confronts global anti-Semitism
Community Focus Jewish Interest Prominent attorney fights hatred with reason Israel & the Jewish World in the sold-out Len Mazur Memorial Lecture By Marty Fugate Focus on Youth lan Dershowitz is perhaps America’s most goat the Jewish people. The bad news? New, mutant Life Cycle well-known defense attorney. His latest strains have appeared – and anti-Semitism has seen high-profi le case is in the court of world remarkable growth and resurgence around the world. Jewish Happenings opinion. In a time when many are silent, the feisty It’s cropped up in the Muslim communities of Commentary Brooklyn native has stepped up as “Israel’s
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5A Local students to participate in March of the Living
12A Temple Beth Sholom honors Sheldon and Beverly Silverstein
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SRQUSY update: Yom Universal and Scavenger Hunt
single most visible defender.” Like any good lawyer, the author and Harvard Law School professor emeritus bases his arguments on fact. On Wednesday, February 25, Dershowitz had just returned from a European fact-finding tour exploring the troubling reemergence of ancient anti-Jewish hatreds in the 21st century. He shared his findings that evening at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. “Global Anti-Semitism” was the topic of this Len Mazur Memorial Lecture hosted by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota Manatee. A near-capacity crowd of 1,100 people gathered to hear Dershowitz speak. He didn’t mince words. Anti-Semitism is a mindless phenomenon. But Dershowitz approached its irrationality with cool rationality and objectivity. The good news? Except for isolated hate groups, “classic” anti-Semitism is largely a thing of the past. With the exception of reactionaries in Greece and Hungary, today’s right-wing nationalists don’t automatically scape-
The Mazur family with Alan Dershowitz
Western Europe. “There are neighborhoods in London and Paris I wouldn’t wear a kippah,” Dershowitz said. Hard-left anti-Zionism is another form – alive and well on America’s college campuses. “It’s a
continued on page 2A
Major Gifts Dinner a resounding success By Federation staff
T
he Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manario & Co., Kerkering tee’s 2015 Major Gifts Dinner was held on Barberio Financial SerWednesday, February 25,________________________________________________ preceding Len vices, Inc., Merrill Invoice Ref #: ________________ the Familythe Jeweler 14276 Name: Mazur Memorial Lecture with Alan Dershowitz. CoLynch and Tableseide. chairs Susi Steenbarger and Irene Ross welcomed a Gulf Coast Commusold-out crowd of 180 major donors and sponsors at nity Foundation proThe Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. They thanked Ros Mavided autographed zur and her family for sponsoring the lecture and copies of Terror Tunthe appearance of Professor Dershowitz. Susi Steennels, Dershowitz’s latbarger said, “Ros and her family achieved their goal est book, as a gift for to increase our awareness and knowledge on antiall of the guests. Major Gifts Dinner co-Chairs Semitism so we better understand the world around “It was my plea- Irene Ross and Susan BensonThis Proof must be signed and returned before Steenbarger us as Jewish sure to co-chair this “Love, we can proceed withcommitted your order. This is yourindividuals.” Proof prior to printing. Please examine inspired all spell- guests as she spoke about Anne Spindel dinner,” said Irene Ross. “We wanted this to be a speHeart and ing and information carefully.story RFJD and will not be her Jewish commitment to Federation. Procial event for our major donors who are so important Friendship held responsible for any unnoticed errors. Any guests for their generosity fessor Dershowitz thanked in their support for Federation.” printing will be customer’s sole Day” at errors found after and leadership, which enables Federation to combat For more information about the Major Gifts Temple responsibility. anti-Semitism and provide support and advocacy for Dinner, contact Ilene Fox, Operations Director, at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org. Emanu-El Approval Israel. Sponsors for the dinner were Kerkering BarbeApproved
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April 2015
Seeking young adults for YAD! By Maya Danilowitz
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onthly happy hours, Shabbat in a Box and tikkun olam projects. What do these thing share in common? They are activities hosted by the Young Adults Division (YAD) of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. For those of you in your 20s, 30s and early 40s, single, married with kids or with furry babies, the YAD group is a great opportunity to make friends in the area. From High Holy Day services to the opening game
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of the Rays to volunteering to build a house for the needy, it’s nice have friends who will join in the effort. What’s coming up? Lots of great gatherings, including service projects, wine tasting events, a YAD pool party in July, a Hanukkah “Vodka Latke” get-together with the YAD groups of Pinellas and Tampa, and plenty more! For more information about YAD, contact Len Steinberg at 941.552.6301 or lsteinberg@jfedsrq.org. WITH YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.
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FEDERATION NEWS Professor Alan Dershowitz...continued from page 1A
minority opinion,” he said. “But the boycott the speech,” he said. “Support majority says nothing. After my talks, for Israel has never been a partisan isprofessors will call me and say, ‘We’re sue. It shouldn’t turn into one now.” so glad you spoke up for Israel.’ I say, What’s the correct counter-re‘Why don’t you speak up?’ They don’t sponse to rising global anti-Semitism? dare. Tenure’s supposed to mean freeDershowitz quoted Yitzhak Rabin’s dom of speech. But they’re worried famous motto: “Fight terrorism as if about their student evaluations.” there is no peace process; pursue peace According to Dershowitz, critias if there is no terrorism.” He added cizing Israeli policy doesn’t make you an anti-Semite. “I’m a liberal democrat and regard myself as a moderate,” he said. “I’m a supporter of the twostate solution and opposed Professor Alan Dershowitz (center) with David and Edie Chaifetz, co-chairs of the Major Gifts Dinner which preceded the Len Mazur Memorial Lecture to many of that, “The answer isn’t censorship. The Israel’s settlement decisions. I can be answer is truth. We need to speak the critical – but what we’re dealing with truth in the marketplace of ideas. As on the hard left isn’t critical thought. long as that marketplace stays open, Deep down, their problem isn’t Israeli the truth will prevail.” policy; it’s Israel’s right to exist.” David and Edie Chaifetz were Dershowitz had only scorn for the co-chairs of the event. In her openslander and double standards of the ing remarks, Edie thanked Ros MaBoycott, Divestment and Sanctions zur and her family for their generosity (BDS) movement, and politically-corand vision in sponsoring the appearrect hedging that refuses to label antiance of Alan Dershowitz as a way to Semitic attacks for what they are – or bring anti-Semitism to the forefront. worse, blame Jewish victims. She continued, stating, “David and While characterizing himself as an I have chosen to stand up against the Obama supporter, he harshly criticized evil of anti-Semitism and to speak out. the President’s objection to Prime MinTonight we ask you to join us as we ister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to loudly and vociferously look evil in the the House of Representatives. eye and say NEVER AGAIN. He and I “This is not about protocol,” Derhave chosen to say Hineini, Here I Am, showitz observed. “It’s a separation and with each of us standing shoulder of powers issue.” He pointed out that to shoulder, we will be strong as we the Constitution gives the executive each declare Hineini, Here I Am when and legislative branches joint responwe are called to action.” sibility for making and implementing Jeff and Greg Mazur, the sons of important foreign-policy decisions. the late Len Mazur, also spoke, noting “Netanyahu understands the Iranian that Dershowitz’s talk was “a touching threat better than anyone. He can ofacknowledgement to our father.” fer expert testimony – and it’s absoDavid Chaifetz moderated the viglutely right and proper for the House to orous question-and-answer session that hear him. Ultimately, the White House followed. “Edie and I were honored to doesn’t have a problem with the speech be asked to co-chair this magnificent itself. Their problem is with the content event. Hopefully, the impact of this – what he’s going to say.” event will help mobilize our commuDershowitz’s own expert opinnity to action,” said David. ion? “Anyone who doesn’t think Iran The event coincided with the 56th is trying to develop nuclear weapons is anniversary of The Jewish Federaeither a fool or a knave.” tion of Sarasota Manatee. According He also noted that the refusal to to Howard Tevlowitz, Federation Exhear opposing points of view is never ecutive Director, “Hearing such a lua good sign. “As a liberal Democrat cid argument for the truth was the best who twice campaigned for President celebration I can think of!” Obama, I’m appalled that some Democratic members of Congress plan to
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celebr
at e
YOM HA’ATZMAUT
Israel Independence Day SUNDAY–APRIL 26 1PM – 4PM
FEDERATION CAMPUS 580 MCINTOSH RD, SARASOTA
FREE
There will be fun activities such as Krav Maga, Israeli face painting, writing letters to Israeli soldiers, archeological digs, placing notes in the Kotel, Kotel balloons balloons, art, Israeli food, and more!
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Contact Orna Nissan 941.552.6305 or onissan@jfedsrq.org
www.jfedsrq.org
April 2015
FEDERATION NEWS
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PJ Library receives Community Foundation of Sarasota County grant to start PJ Parents initiative
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By Federation Staff
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ince The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee first adopted f the PJ Library in 2006, countless e families have transformed their cuddly bedtime stories into Jewish ones. PJ Library has helped foster a lifelong love of learning and a meaningful connection to Judaism through its monthly deliveries of free Jewish children’s books and music to hundreds of families in the region. In recent years, PJ Library of Sarasota-Manatee has become so much more than just a supplier of Jewish bedtime stories for children. Not only does PJ Library offer innovative story-time programming every other
month, it recently received a grant to put a fresh new focus on empowering parents to provide Jewish education in their homes. Federation staff member Jeremy Dictor, director of PJ Library, believes the new “PJ Parents” initiative will create many opportunities for local families. “Thanks to the support of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, our PJ Parents initiative will help educate parents about Jewish thought and traditions, and empower them to bring those teachings and traditions back to their families,” says Dictor. “How do you make Judaism accessible to young families? You give them the tools to
build it into the foundation of their lives. This is larger than a story program. We want to create an interactive, engaged community for young Jewish families.” Mary Collier, a mother and PJ Library committee member, believes that the program will do just that. “Over the past eight years our family has attended many PJ Library events,” says Collier. “It’s been a wonderful way to stay connected to other Jewish families outside of our temple. I love that PJ offers a way for our children to feel they are a part of a larger community.” Dictor says that the new program will feature a wide range of topics and
events, including “lectures on how to keep Shabbat in a technologically advanced age. We’ll also offer kosher wine and cheese tastings where parents can schmooze and get to know one another. It’s all about finding ways to integrate Judaism into day-to-day life, and make it meaningful and fun for young families.” For more information about how your family can receive free Jewish books and music on a monthly basis, and on the PJ Parents program, please contact Jeremy Dictor at 941.343.2106 or jdictor@jfedsrq.org.
“Israel’s Relationship with the UN from an Insider”
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magine you’re sitting next to two The question-and-answer period men at a conference table and the at the end of Miller’s lecture aroused next day five empty chairs appear many thoughtful questions from conbetween you and these two men. That cerned members of our pro-Israel was Nathan Miller’s experience with community. Miller shared that he is y delegates from Iran at the United Naconfident in the job that Ron Prosor, tions’ General Assembly Hall in FebIsrael’s new representative to the ruary. United Nations, will do to address the . Miller, the former director of d speechwriting for Israel’s Permanent e Mission to the United Nations and . recognized by the Israeli newspaper Maariv as one of “10 young Jews who e will change the world,” shared many I fascinating stories during an hour-long lecture on Monday, February 9. The r program, “Israel’s Relationship with the United Nations from an Insider,” n was part of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s Heller Israel Adf vocacy Initiative, and it captivated the g audience of nearly 150 who braved the g rainy weather to hear about the inner Nathan Miller workings of the UN. The introduction by Pastor Joey collective concern about the overt antit Mimbs, Heller Israel Advocacy IniSemitism seen within the walls of the o tiative co-chair, inspired an emotional United Nations. t “thank you” from Nathan Miller to The Heller Israel Advocacy Initias the Christian community for standing tive works to provide substantive proalongside the Jewish people in their Israel programming for the regional determination to keep Israel a thriving community. For more information, h nation. visit www.sarasotalovesisrael.com. g BUY • SELL • TRADE • SERVICE t
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April 2015
FEDERATION NEWS
“A Taste of Israel” a delicious success!
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he Jewish Federation of SaraUSF donors event at the Longboat Key sota-Manatee was pleased to Club during his visit. be a sponsor of “A Taste of IsThe event was a fundraiser for rael” at USF Sarasota-Manatee in Febstudents in food preparation and event ruary. The program showcased Israeli management classes at the new USFcuisine and featured renowned Israeli SM Culinary Innovation Lab in LakeChef Yaron Azuolay, who participated wood Ranch. in group lectures, workshops and demWith more than 20 years experionstrations with USFSM graduate and ence as a head chef, Azuolay is recundergraduate students in the College ognized as being highly creative with of Hospitality and Technology Leadermenu design, special events, catering ship. and hotel restaurant management. He During his visit, Chef Azuolay often appears on Israeli television proparticipated on a panel that discussed grams. global cuisine and how it relates to regional tourism. The moderator was Judi Gallagher; panel participants included area chefs Jamie Gregorich, Darwin Santa Maria, Giuliano Hazan, and USFSM alumna Sheena Maini. Azuolay also created a delectable feast for a Dennis Stover, Chef Yaron Azuolay, Howard Tevlowitz, Nancy Swart
Club Fed Lecture Series: The Jews of Morocco By Jeremy Lisitza
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n Wednesday, February 4, Dr. Steven Derfler, an educational consultant, archaeologist, historian, researcher, teacher and writer, presented his second lecture in the Federation’s Club Fed Lecture Series that examines Jewish communities around the world. This one focused on the Jews of Morocco. Highlights from his fascinating program included learning that some believe the Jews arrived after the destruction of the First Temple of Solomon. Jews were clearly part of the Roman cities that developed in the first century. Many of them moved into Morocco by migrating westward along the Mediterranean coast from the large Jewish center in Carthage. But in the 12th century, the Almohads, a Berber mountain people, developed a fundamentalist Islamic doctrine and built an empire. The Jews in these communities who did not convert were killed. Participants learned that persecution of Jews was so intense that Maimonides counseled all Jews to leave the country. The Merinids then established Fez-Jedid (New Fez) as their capital. They forced their Jewish constituents
to move into a fortified area adjoining the royal palace, to ensure their safety. This was the first Jewish quarter in Morocco. Because it was built on an old salt mine, this and all subsequently constructed Moroccan Jewish quarters were called “mellahs,” based on the
Dr. Steven Derfler
Arabic word for salt. Audience members were enthralled with the presentation and left praising this knowledgeable and engaging speaker who takes audiences on fantastic journeys that chronicle the history of the Jewish people. Want to learn more about Club Fed and this lecture series? Contact Jeremy Lisitza for more information at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org.
Club Fed hits the road to visit the Morse Museum By Jeremy Lisitza
Holocaust Remembrance Day “On this one day we remember those who suffered, those who fought, and those who died.”
WEDNESDAY
April 15, 2015 • 7:00 pm Temple Sinai
4631 South Lockwood Ridge Road Sarasota, FL 34231
O
n Tuesday, February 3, fifty Club Fed members and Federation staffers boarded a luxury bus for a “Hit the Road” adventure to the Morse Museum in Winter Park. This celebrated museum houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany. We were taken on a docent-led tour of three generations of Tiffany creations that were on display, including jewelry, pottery, paintings, art glass, leaded-glass lamps and windows. We sat in the amazing chapel created for the Chicago World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893, and viewed art and architectural objects from Tiffany’s Long
Island country estate, Laurelton Hall. Afterwards, we stopped for a delicious lunch at the Fire, a great restaurant in Winter Haven. A wonderful time was had by all! Join us! Club Fed is planning more “Hits the Road” trips for the 2015-2016 season, including visiting the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, the Chihuly Collection at the Morean Arts Center in St. Petersburg, and other museums and art centers. To be on the list for first reservations before these events are advertised in The Jewish News, email jlisitza@ jfedsrq.org and indicate that you want to be a Club Fed VIP.
Janice Rutolo, Laura Lesser, Rita Kalish, Sally Mazur
Mel and Meryl Cohen
OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY Yom Hashoah will be observed with memorial candle lighting, music, prayers and songs.
Questions? Contact Temple Sinai at 941.924.1802
FEDERATION NEWS
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Five area students to participate in March of the Living By Orna Nissan
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April 2015
Established 1971
PUBLISHER The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Road Sarasota, FL 34232-1959 Phone: 941.371.4546 Fax: 941.378.2947 E-mail: jewishnews@jfedsrq.org Website: www.jfedsrq.org Published Monthly Volume 45, Number 4 April 2015 44 pages USPS Permit No. 167 May 2015 Issue Deadlines: Editorial: March 27, 2015 Advertising: April 1, 2015 PRESIDENT Nancy Swart EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Howard Tevlowitz ASSOCIATE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Marty Haberer COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR Linda Lipson MANAGING EDITOR Ted Epstein COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Christopher Alexander ADVERTISING SALES Robin Leonardi PROOFREADERS Adeline Silverman, Stacey Edelman, Harold Samtur, Bryna Tevlowitz, Deb Bryan MIMI AND JOSEPH J. EDLIN JOURNALISM INTERNS Allya Yourish, Jackson Cacioppo MISSION STATEMENT: The Jewish News of Sarasota-Manatee strives to be the source of news and features of special interest to the Jewish community of Sarasota-Manatee, to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions in the Jewish community, and to communicate the mission, activities and achievements of the Federation and its Jewish community partners. OPINIONS printed in The Jewish News of Sarasota-Manatee do not necessarily reflect those of The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee, its Board of Directors or staff. SUBMISSIONS to The Jewish News are subject to editing for space and content, and may be withheld from publication without prior notice. Approval of submissions for publication in either verbal or written form shall always be considered tentative, and does not imply a guarantee of any kind. Submissions must be sent electronically to jewishnews@jfedsrq.org. LETTERS to the editor should not exceed 300 words, must be typed, and include the writer’s name, mailing address and phone number. Letters can be submitted via snail mail or email (jewishnews@jfedsrq.org). Not all letters will be published. Letters may be edited for length and content.
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housands of Jewish teens from around the world will share a once-in-a-lifetime experience this month when they march three kilometers from Auschwitz to Birkenau – the largest concentration camp complex built by the Nazis – during an international education program called March of the Living. The march commemorates Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, by retracing the steps of the March of Death, the actual route countless numbers were forced to take on their way to the gas chambers. Participants will experience a memorial service in Birkenau, which will conclude with the singing of “Hatikvah.” From Poland, they will fly to Israel to celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut, Israel Independence Day.
Five local teens will represent our life before World War II, followed by the rise of Hitler and the Nazis, anticommunity in this transformative experience: Jessie Greenberg, Sarah LeviJewish legislation, life in ghettos and camps, Jewish resistance and more. son, Julie Lichterman, Adam Caldwell We are proud of our representaand Maia Zildjian. Holocaust educator Major Rachel Wasserman helped pretives participating in March of the Livpare them for the trip. In February they ing and look forward to hearing their visited the Florida Holocaust Museum stories upon their return. in St. Petersburg to learn more about the Holocaust. Dr. David Baras, a museum docent, guided them through the core exhibition, which features original artifacts, video and photos documenting the history of the Holocaust beginning with the history Adam Caldwell, Major Rachel Wasserman, Julie Lichterman, Sarah Levison, Jessie Greenberg, Maia Zildjian of anti-Semitism and
Vocational/Technical School Scholarships: April 13 deadline! By Andrea Eiffert
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re you interested in pursuing the culinary arts, cosmetology, plumbing or medical technology? Have you considered a career as an auto mechanic, x-ray technician or licensed practical nurse? If so, the Vocational/Technical School Scholarship may be ideal for you.
The scholarship’s fund holder, Marv Wolf, believes education comes in many forms and scholarship assistance is important for everyone. He encourages Jewish students from Sarasota and Manatee counties seeking careers in any vocational field or trade to apply. This grant, as with all Federation education scholarships, is open to
students of all abilities and talents. For more information or to apply, visit www.jfedsrq.org/help/educationscholarship. Applications will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 13. For more information, contact me at 941.552.6308 or aeiffert@ jfedsrq.org.
Federation Education Scholarships: April 13 deadline! By Andrea Eiffert
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here are only a few more days left to apply for an education scholarship! Applications for all education scholarships must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 13. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following general requirements: Be an undergraduate student in the next academic year at a university, college, vocational school or community college Applicant and his/her parent(s) must have resided full-time in Sarasota County or Manatee County for the past two years, as of the application deadline Primary consideration for these scholarships is financial need; however, good academic records and community involvement in Jewish activities are also important
Applications must be received prior to deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. All of our scholarships are offered exclusively to Jewish students with the exception of The Robert Michelson Interfaith Scholarship, which is awarded to three Jewish and three Christian students each year who meet all of the
requirements listed above, and who have also demonstrated interfaith involvement and commitment. For more information about The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s Education Scholarship Program, please visit www.jfedsrq.org/help/edu cationscholarship, or contact me at 941. 552.6308 or aeiffert@jfedsrwq.org.
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April 2015
FEDERATION NEWS
The International Criminal Court: Next defeat for the Palestinians
DO WE M
By Rabbi Howard A. Simon, co-Chair of The Robert and Esther Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative
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ity that the Palestinian Authority has ahmoud Abbas, the head formed a union with Hamas in Gaza, of the would-be Palestinwhich is also not a state. To make matian state, failed to achieve statehood at the United Nations, so he ters worse, Hamas is recognized as a now looks to the Internaterrorist group that has no authority whatsoever betional Criminal Court at fore this court. This union, The Hague to rescue his recognized by all and afdream of statehood by attacking Israel regarding firmed by Abbas, could its military action during lead to an investigation of both entities should Israel, the recent Gaza war. This a recognized state, choose sounds as if it could be a major threat for Israel, but to bring this matter to the do not worry, for the goal court. of the Palestinians will fail Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu said that it again – and fail miserably. Rabbi Howard A. Simon was a “travesty of justice First and foremost we must remember that the ICC is open to to haul Israel to the dock in The Hague; the entire system of international law states only. You must be a recognized, could unravel because of this travesty.” existing state before you can bring any The Prime Minister is correct, but the charges before the court. Palestine is system will not unravel because the not a state; it is an entity, and there is a world of difference between the two. court will realize how wrong it would be to bring this matter and these chargSince this entity is not a state, the ICC es to trial. What we see is yet another will rule it has no jurisdiction in this attempt by Mahmoud Abbas to find an matter. Case closed. In addition, there is also the realentity in this world that will recognize
his domain as a viable, real state. The International Criminal Court cannot be used in this manner. If Mr. Abbas really wants to have his territory recognized as a state, he should call Israel’s Prime Minister and state that he, and his people, recognize Israel as a Jewish state and will publicly attest to this ideal before the entire world, including all of the Middle East. In the blink of an eye, Israel would recognize the Palestinian state that is the dream of President Abbas. That is all Mr. Abbas has to do. But don’t hold your breath waiting for him to make that call. For more information about the Heller IAI, visit www.sarasotalovesisrael.com or contact Jessi Sheslow at jsheslow@ jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2109.
Fifty Shades of “J” at Darwin’s on 4th
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he rain couldn’t keep us from enjoying the smooth jazz of The Michael Ross Trio. Darwin’s was the perfect environment to enjoy
some appetizers and a glass of wine. New friendship were formed and old friends were able to get reacquainted.
Penny and Michael
Amanda with The Michael Ross Trio
Bob and Randi
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April 2015
COMMUNITY FOCUS
“Tanach Treats and Bible Specials” By Marden Paru, Dean, Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva
O
ur Tanach (The Holy Scriptures) is filled with wisdom for the ages. But no matter how much of the Bible one has studied, there are many aspects and elements of “our story” that go undiscovered. For example, Moses had the need and was told to build a “tabernacle” which was to hold the two sets of the Decalogue. Just what is a tabernacle and what were its characteristics? Who or what resided in and around the special aron (box). What was the legacy of this holy item? King David brings the peripatetic ark up to Jerusalem, but his son and successor, Solomon, is privileged to build the first permanent building – the Bet HaMikdash (The Holy Temple)
– to house this special container. The physical properties and environment of the Tabernacle become a precursor for how synagogues will be built following the cessation of the cult of sacrifices after the churban bet hamikdash (the destruction of the second Temple) in 70 CE by the Romans. Without studying the importance and substantive role and place of the Tabernacle, I would suggest there cannot be a full appreciation of how the synagogue has evolved to our day. Did you know that there are ten great concepts (here I don’t mean the Ten Commandments) that Judaism gave to the world? Think about them in toto: monotheism, the weekend, census, asylum, equality under the
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law, court system, animal rights, crop rotation, monetary damages and public schools. Have you studied these in detail, from a biblical perspective? Can you articulate these ideas in a coherent manner trippingly off your tongue? Well, soon you can, along with so much more. The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva is offering a new eight-week course starting Monday, April 13 from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m., called: “Tanach Treats and Bible Specials.” The Hebrew Bible is filled with unusual stories and events that captured the imagination of our people from the day of Revelation at Sinai down through the ages. They formed our Written Law. On the other hand, the Talmud – the Oral Law – added in-
sight and understanding of Scriptures as did the great commentators such as Rashi and a whole host of other sages. We’ll share the not well-known lessons and episodes about biblical ideas, characters and their challenges as well as successes – from the perspective of the Jewish values we learn and transmit to our children and to the world at large in every generation. For more information and to register, please contact me at 941.379.5655 or marden.paru@gmail.com. The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva, a 501(c)(3) notfor-profit school, is open to all and partially funded through a grant from The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee.
Temple Emanu-El and The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee present Above and Beyond Sponsored by
Inspiring documentary about Israel’s first Air Force pilots will screen in conjunction with Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut
W
ould you risk everything – your future, your citizenship, even your life – to help a brother in need? In 1948 – just three years after the liberation of the Nazi death camps – a group of Jewish American pilots answered a call for help. In secret and at great personal risk, they smuggled planes out of the U.S., trained behind the Iron Curtain, and flew for Israel in its War of Independence. As members of Machal, or “volunteers from abroad,” this ragtag band not only turned the tide of the war, they also embarked on personal journeys of discovery and renewed Jewish pride. Above and Beyond – a new and acclaimed documentary film, produced by Steven Spielberg’s sister, Nancy Spielberg –
tells their story. Above and Beyond has been showcased at film festivals across the U.S. Through a co-sponsorship of Temple Emanu-El and The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee it will be screened on Wednesday, April 22 at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El. The Sarasota screening of Above and Beyond is perfectly timed to coincide with Yom HaZikaron, Israel Memorial Day, and Yom HaAtzmaut, Israeli Independence Day. All profits from the event will be donated to Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, a charitable organization that provides educational, social, cultural and recreational programs, and facilities for the young men and women soldiers of Israel and also supports the families of
fallen soldiers. Preferred seating for Above and Beyond may be reserved by sending $18/seat to Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232, attn: Above and Beyond. Checks should be
made out to Temple Emanu-El. General admission will also be offered for $5 at the door as space permits. For more information, please call 941.379.1997 or email elaineglickman @gmail.com.
The film will also be screened on Thursday, April 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel on Longboat Key. Tickets are $20 and include a dessert reception. Reservations are a must. Please call the temple office at 941.383.3428.
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COMMUNITY FOCUS
Remembering Sylvia Cohodas By Richard Bergman
L
ongtime Federation leader, supporter and friend, Sylvia Cohodas, recently passed away at the age of 93. Sylvia grew up in North Lake, Michigan, and with her beloved husband, Arnold, raised their children, Howard and Nadine, in Ishpeming, Michigan, and Appleton, Wisconsin. Although these were small towns, with small Jewish populations, Sylvia and Arnold lived the traditions of “Jews looking out for other Jews,” of tzedakah, and of other tenets of Judaism that they had learned from their parents. Sylvia once told me, “My heritage is Polish and Lithuanian. Had I not been born in the United States, I could have perished in the Holocaust.” Sylvia believed that we must take care of those Jews who are in need and at-risk here in Sarasota-Manatee, in Israel and throughout the world. She said, “I was brought up to believe that Jews take care of each other and have responsibility for one another – in a family, in a community, in the world. Whenever a Jew is in trouble, his fellow Jews must respond.” She believed in an “eleventh commandment” – The rich take care of the poor and the poor take care of the poorer. In May 1997, at the age of 76, Sylvia had her Bat Mitzvah at Temple Beth Israel on Longboat Key. Here are a few quotes from her Bat Mitzvah speech: “To me, being Jewish means that I
am the inheritor of a proud and enduring tradition that has survived almost 6,000 years. Being Jewish means more to me than practicing a religion. It is a culture, a civilization, a way of life.” “To me, the hallmark of being Jewish is a passion for justice.” And from the prophet Micah: “What the Lord doth require of thee: Only to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.” Sylvia had lived full-time in Sarasota since 1994, and loved her
was a Lion of Judah, Honorary Chair of Federation’s Israel@60 celebration, and a member of our Federation’s Legacy Society. She was so proud of Israel and all of her accomplishments. On the subject of philanthropy, Sylvia said, “You know the old saying, ‘Give till it hurts?’ Well, in our family, we say ‘Give till it feels good!’” My husband said so often, “It never hurts to do the right thing.” I have had the honor of being Sylvia Cohodas’ friend for more than 16 years. During that time we shared many lunches, meetings, events and personal conversations. She was very intelligent, a wonderful teller of stories and jokes, a devoted Green Bay Packers fan, and a true music lover who knew the lyrics to dozens of songs. Among other things, her interest in music was nurtured during her four years at thei University of Michigan, and her sonT enjoyed telling others that he took thea same music appreciation course – fromt the same professor – as his mothero when he attended UM 21 years later. h I will miss my visits with Sylvia.l To me, she was so much more than aT philanthropist and supporter of Fed-w eration. She was a mentor and a closeW friend. Our Federation family, ourf community, and our world will miss her. May her memory be a blessing.
T
Sylvia Cohodas with Hibuki doll
life here. Along with our Federation, which Sylvia said was her first love, she worked for and was honored by Hadassah and the Technion. She supported the symphony, the opera, the ballet, JNF, AJC, FST, Planned Parenthood, League of Women Voters, and many others. She was the first recipient of our Jewish Federation’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009,
ORT announces major gift to fund student scholarships By Kimberly Sheintal
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Co-Proprietors: Phil Mancini & Michael Klauber
e are honored to announce that ORT America has received an anonymous contribution of $100,000 from a Sarasota philanthropic family who has established a permanent endowment fund that will provide scholarships for needy students at ORT’s Bramson ORT College now and for generations to come,” stated Annie Baum, Sarasota ORT lay leader. “This meaningful gift reflects the longtime involvement and commitment of the donor family to educate young people who come from underprivileged families to ensure they have the opportunity to succeed in life and become self-sufficient,” stated Leah Siskin, ORT Florida Advancement Director. Bramson ORT College, established in 1942, is dedicated to enhancing students’ lives through a college level education in a supportive environment. Upon graduation, students will be prepared for challenging employment opportunities, higher education, and to make positive contributions
to society. The college embraces and strives to foster in its community cultural and social diversity, critical thinking, and civic engagement. Bramson ORT College, one of several Colleges in the ORT U.S. Operations, is a technical college in the metropolitan New York area which provides a student-centered higher education in a unique multicultural community that prepares students to develop and achieve their personal, educational and career potentials. Bramson ORT College places over
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For a continuously updated community calendar, visit www.jfedsrq.org.
IN HONOR OF Linda and Tom Klein Judy and Herb Hurwitz
IN MEMORY OF Fortunee Malki Azerad Christine and Chris Alexander Kim and Richie Mullins Sandy and Marty Paris Rona and Rabbi Howard Simon Judy Weinstein Patti and David Wertheimer Sylvia Cohodas Rececca and Rich Bergman Joyce and Sherman Cooper Arlette and Stan Jacob Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz
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IN HONOR OF Edie and David Chaifetz Judy and Bob Vigder Nancy Milbauer – Special Birthday Bunny and Mort Skirboll Patti and David Wertheimer Judy and Bob Vigder
NOTE: To be publicly acknowledged in The Jewish News, Honor Cards require a minimum $10 contribution per listing. You can send Honor Cards directly from www.jfedsrq.org. For more information, please call 941.552.6304.
April 2015
COMMUNITY FOCUS
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Diocese of Venice hosts Holocaust Remembrance (Yom HaShoah) event
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he Catholic Diocese of Venice in Florida, under the leadership of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, will be hosting the annual Yom HaShoah: An Hour of Remembrance at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 19. The event will be held at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice (350 Tampa Ave. West), with a reception to follow. Each year, the Diocese of Venice in Florida hosts this commemoration of the Holocaust as an interreligious gathering bringing together members of the
Catholic and Jewish communities in order to recommit to the promotion of peace and solidarity among all peoples. The event this year has special significance as 2015 marks the 50th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council’s Declaration Nostrae Aetate (On the Relation of the Church to Non-Christian Religions), the important document that called for a fresh and positive relationship between the Catholic and Jewish faiths. Honored speakers this year will be
Rabbi Noam Marans, Director of Interreligious and Intergroup Relations for the American Jewish Committee; and Reverend Dennis McManus, Director of the Jan Karski Institute for Holocaust Education at Georgetown University and Associate Director of the University’s Program for Jewish Civilization. Bishop Dewane enthusiastically remarked: “The Diocese of Venice is honored to host this annual Yom HaShoah interreligious event remembering
the Holocaust. It is one way in which the Catholic Church in Southwest Florida, in union with Pope Francis, wishes to show friendship with our Jewish brothers and sisters, and to reaffirm our dedication to respect, dialogue and solidarity with the Jewish Community.” All members of the Jewish community, especially survivors of the Holocaust and their families, as well as members of the Catholic Community of the Diocese of Venice in Florida are invited to attend.
Sarasota Jewish Chorale premieres new composition By Marcia Polevoi
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he Sarasota Jewish Chorale will premiere a new composition at the Epiphany Cathedral in Venice on Sunday, April 19 at 2:30 p.m. This piece will be part of Epiphany’s annual Hour of Remembrance, an interreligious service commemoration of Yom HaShoah. This event has been held each year to honor all those who lost their lives during World War II. The piece, “Prayer of Joy and Peace,” was written and composed by Patricia Weil King. The choral work, arranged for four-part harmony, is based on a
Hamsa prayer. Hamsa is an ancient Middle Eastern amulet symbolizing the hand of God. In all faiths it is a protective sign that brings it owner happiness, luck, health and good fortune. Pat King was music major at Eastman School in Rochester, New York, and is currently a piano teacher in Long Island, New York. She has been a prolific composer. A chance meeting at a class reunion brought her together again with Arlene Eichen Stolnitz. Arlene, a retired teacher from Rochester, founded the Sarasota Jewish Chorale
in Florida. As they reacquainted, they discovered their mutual interest in music. This was the spark that led to the creation of this work and having its world premiere in Venice. The Chorale will also present this composition at the Jewish Congregation of Venice on Friday, April 17 at 7:30 p.m. as part of Shabbat services. The 30 voices of the Sarasota Jewish Chorale, under the direction of Linda Stewart Tucker, are proud to be a part of both events. The Epiphany Cathedral is located
at 350 Tampa Avenue, West, Venice, and the Jewish Congregation of Venice is located at 600 Auburn Road at Kennedy Drive. The Sarasota Jewish Chorale rehearses most Thursday nights from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Hecht Building (580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota) courtesy of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. For further information about the Chorale, please call Susan Skovronek at 941.355.8011.
New Kiddush cups bring a special L’Chaim to Kobernick-Anchin-Benderson Campus
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Thanks to a joint initiative by CEO or the residents of KobernickHeidi Brown and resident Rabbi, BarAnchin-Benderson, Sarasota’s bara Aiello, fifty-six Kiddush cups Jewish retirement campus, Shabbat was made even more special with the addition of individual Kiddush cups. “Ooooh, they are so beautiful,” said Anchin resident Anna Kulbersh as she lifted one of the new silverplated cups to make the traditional wine blessing that inaugurates Shabbat. And Anna Kulbersh, volunteer Linda Feins, Arthur Stern, CNA Adalia Dezir, Rabbi Barbara Aiello, CEO Heidi Brown, Carolyn Kaplan beautiful they are.
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were purchased for use by residents who attend Kabbalat Shabbat and Shacharit services held on Friday afternoon and Saturday mornings in the Anchin Pavilion shul. Prior to the arrival of the new cups, residents sipped Kiddush wine or juice from plastic cups, similar to those used for medicinal purposes. Anchin resident Arthur Stern put
Kiddush Cups filled and ready for sharing
it best as he saluted his friends with a hearty “L’Chaim! Now it’s really Shabbat.”
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April 2015
COMMUNITY FOCUS
World-famous Nazi hunter honored at The Florida Holocaust Museum’s annual gala
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amed “Nazi Hunter” Eli Rosenbaum returned to the site of his first Nazi prosecution case to receive The Florida Holocaust Museum’s prestigious 2015 Loebenberg Humanitarian Award. Mr. Rosenbaum was also the guest speaker at The Museum’s annual To Life benefit gala on Thursday, February 26. Mr. Rosenbaum was honored for his tireless work in pursuing justice for the victims and survivors of the Holocaust throughout his more than 30-year career with the U.S. Department of Justice. “I am enormously grateful to The Florida Holocaust Museum for this wonderful award. I can accept it only on the thought that it recognizes the work of not just one individual, but rather of the many scores of dedicated, tenacious and brilliant professionals at the United States Department of Justice with whom I have been privileged to work over the course of the past 30 years,” said Mr. Rosenbaum, who is Director of Human Rights Strategy and Policy in the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section. Mr. Rosenbaum had previously
visited the Museum in 1996, when he first met the Museum’s Founders, Walter and Edith (of blessed memory) Loebenberg, for whom the award is named. “What a remarkable institution the Tampa-St. Petersburg community has built in the ensuing two decades – truly one of the leading institutions of its kind in the entire world,” Mr. Rosenbaum said to the hundreds who attended To Life at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. “Touching and enriching many thousands of lives every year, The Florida Holocaust Museum’s powerful exhibitions and state-of-theart online resources give its crucial messages of remembrance, tolerance and accountability a vast international reach.” Each year, To Life honors the memory of the millions of men, women and children who suffered or died in the Holocaust, and recognizes the many supporters who help the Museum keep the stories of Holocaust survivors, rescuers and liberators alive for future generations. “It was such a privilege to be able to hear from Mr. Rosenbaum. His com-
Lisl Schick, Eli Rosenbaum, Toni Rinde, Rachael Worthington
mitment to pursuing justice for those who suffered or died during the Holocaust and other genocides is remarkable and inspiring,” said The FHM Executive Director Elizabeth Gelman. The FHM board members Toni Rinde, Janet A. Rodriguez-Rocha, Lisl Schick and Rachael S. Worthington served as this year’s To Life Committee. Dr. Zena Lansky and Warren Rodgers were co-chairs of To Life: To Justice. Gayle Sierens, WFLA-TV News Channel 8 co-anchor, served as emcee for the evening’s program. Creative Loafing and Tampa Bay Magazine were this year’s media sponsors. Mr. Rosenbaum’s first prosecution in 1980 involved a 70-year-old man living in St. Pete Beach who was stripped of his U.S. citizenship for lying about his membership in a Lithuanian police organization sponsored by the Nazis during the German occupation of Lithuania. The unit arrested, detained and murdered unarmed citizens, according to the official complaint filed by the U.S. Justice Department’s Office of Special Investigations (OSI). The local story made national
Don Worthington, Eli Rosenbaum, Rachael Worthington
headlines in the Chicago Tribune and New York Times and was the start of Mr. Rosenbaum’s storied career as the longest serving prosecutor and investigator of Nazi war criminals in history. Mr. Rosenbaum served as OSI Director from 1994-2010, where he not only investigated and prosecuted WWII-era Nazi war criminals but also obtained historical and remunerative justice from European governments on behalf of Holocaust victims and survivors. He also directed the investigation that resulted in the worldwide exposure of the Nazi past of former United Nations Secretary General Kurt Waldheim in 1986, arguably the most sensational uncovering of a Nazi criminal in postwar history. Mr. Rosenbaum became the Director of Human Rights Enforcement Strategy and Policy when OSI merged with the new Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section in 2010. In addition to pursuing Nazi war criminals, the section also investigates war criminals from places like Bosnia, Guatemala and Rwanda, who think they have found a safe haven in the United States.
Nathaniel Doliner, Elizabeth Gelman, Eli Rosenbaum, Sandy Mermelstein
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By Suzanne Hurwitz, MSW, Jewish Healing Program Coordinator
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eginning in 1996, Bob Applebaum was a JFCS Jewish Healing Program volunteer, bringing Shabbat and other Jewish holidays to senior facilities. In fact, Bob is credited with starting the religious outreach program that is so vibrant today. Bob looked to JFCS when he decided he would like to be a recipient of services. Friendly Visitor Nina Gitomer has been visiting him in his home for nearly one year and they both look forward to their weekly chats. When Bob spoke of his grandson Justin’s recent and third deployment to Afghanistan, he expressed concern over their lack of communication. Nina came to me ask-
ing if there was someone who could speak to him and offer some answers, as it is difficult for anyone not in the military to imagine life there. Brian Saum has been working at JFCS for six months in the Operation Military Assistance Program (OMAP). He works with veterans, finding stable housing for those who are homeless. He himself is a veteran, and he was happy to help Bob out. Dressed in his military uniform, Brian and I arrived at Bob’s home during Nina’s scheduled visit. Bob and Brian spoke of military life and their respective family’s military duties. Brian answered Bob’s questions and they
thanked one another for the sacrifices they have made. Before we left, Brian pinned “airborne wings” onto Bob’s shirt, as both he and Bob’s grandson are specially trained for this type of work. It was a beautiful collaboration of three of JFCS’s departments: Jewish Healing, OMAP and Nina Gitomer, Bob Applebaum, Brian Saum (photo by Suzanne Hurwitz) Volunteers. It was all for Bob, and I felt honored to be a part of it.
JFCS expands services and support for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders By Jamie M. Smith, MBA, Director of Marketing
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FCS was recently awarded a threeyear grant by the Administration for Community Living as part of an Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative: Specialized Support Services Project. JFCS will increase system of care efficiencies and fill existing service gaps for people living in the community with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders or ADRD. Working collaboratively with community partners, JFCS will expand support for those living alone with ADRD, expand services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities with ADRD or at risk of ADRD, and enhance behavioral symptom management training and support for family caregivers. As the oldest large county
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in the U.S., more than one-third of Sarasota County’s population is over the age of 65 with five percent age 85 or older. It is estimated that 50% of adults over the age of 85 will be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. In our community, 25,014 cases of ADRD were counted in 2013 with an estimated increase to 34,107 by 2025. JFCS expects the program to benefit at least 500 individuals each year with the long-term goal of strengthening the overall system of long-term services and supports for people with dementia-related conditions. JFCS is one of ten awardees and is the only agency within the State of Florida to receive the grant award, which was the result of a nationwide
Advisory No r e ti sh Kosher by the Case:
competitive grant application process and is funded by the 2014 Prevention and Public Health Funds. For more information about the
Join us at
TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM
Sarasota-Manatee’s Conservative Synagogue
in april All Are Welcome! Come Join Us! ONGOING PROGRAMS Daily Morning Minyan Sunday-Friday, 8:00am
Morning Minyan Breakfast Wednesdays 9:00am
Yiddish Group
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FRESH MEAT AND POULTRY Under the aegis of one of our new Kosher Consumer advocates, Costco is making available a program that will allow the purchase of fresh meat and poultry by the case at lower per-unit prices. The hashgacha is OU, and Square K for the beef and OU and KAJ for the poultry. The items being offered are:
Rib-Eye Steaks - Boneless Cap Roast - Boneless Chicken Breasts - Boneless and Skinless Ground Turkey Minute roast – Boneless Chicken Thighs Turkey Tenders Chicken Drumsticks Leg Quarters It is suggested that families team up and split cases. All purchases must be pre-paid.
Anyone interested in further details contact Arthur Aaron at 941-960-1480. Ultimately, if enough consumers participate, Costco may begin carrying individual lots in its meat cases but not at present. This is new co-operative venture may take some time to fully work out all details in order to accommodate everyone. Please be patient in the process. Mr. Arthur Aaron, a volunteer, is performing this mitzvah as a liaison between local kosher consumers and the purveyor. You can reach him at 941-960-1480 to place orders.
N.B. If you would like to be added to the e-notification list, please send your email address to koshercon@comcast.net
program, please contact Pamela Baron, MSW, Director of Senior Services, at pbaron@JFCS-Cares.org or 941.366.2224 x112.
Mondays 1:30pm
Paver Religious School Sundays 9:00am (no classes April 5th)
Chug Ivri, Advanced Hebrew Thursdays 10:30am
A Cup of Joe and the Five Books of Moe with Rabbi Werbow Tuesdays, 9:15am
SHABBAT SERVICES Fridays, 6:30pm Saturdays, 9:00am
Shabbat Shaboom Saturdays, 10:30am
Judaica Shop Hannah Puckhaber
Monday-Thursday, 10:00am-3:00pm Sundays 10:00am-12:00pm
Idelson Adult Library
Monday-Thursday, 10:00am-3:00pm
FRIDAY, APRIL 3 Erev Pesach, First Seder SATURDAY, APRIL 4 7:00pm, Community Seder SUNDAY, APRIL 5 9:00am, Passover Service SATURDAY, APRIL 11 9:00am, Shabbat Service with Yizkor Service for Passover SUNDAY, APRIL 12 10:30am, Bar/Bat Mitzvah Club with Rabbi Werbow – L’Dor v’Dor – Values We Pass Along SUNDAY, APRIL 12 2:00pm, Remember Me Garden Event, Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota- Manatee THURSDAY, APRIL 16 Yom Hashoah THURSDAY, APRIL 16 2:00pm, American Association of Individual Investors FRIDAY, APRIL 17 Bar Mitzvah, Ryan Wasserman SATURDAY, APRIL 18 Bar Mitzvah, Ryan Wasserman WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22 Yom HaAtzmaut FRIDAY, APRIL 24 Alain Gurov-Pridyuck Bar Mitzvah SATURDAY, APRIL 25 Alain Gurov-Pridyuck Bar Mitzvah
TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM 941-955-8121
SUNDAY, APRIL 26 9:00am, Learning with Rabbi Werbow, Traveling to Sinai: What Can I Expect and What is Expected of Me? THURSDAY, APRIL 30 10:00am, Sisterhood Mitzvah Knitting and Crafts
1050 South Tuttle Ave Sarasota, Florida 34237
HOME OF TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM SCHOOLS • The Martin and Mildred Paver Religious School
941.552.2780
• Justin L. Wiesner Pre School
941.954.2027
Marden Paru, Chair
Kosher Consumers Council of Sarasota-Manatee 2729 Goodwood Court Sarasota, FL34235 koshercon@comcast.net
• Goldie Feldman Academy Grades K-8
941.552.2770
email: info@templebethsholomfl.org
www.templebethsholomfl.org
12A
April 2015
COMMUNITY FOCUS
TEE Sisterhood fetes three leaders
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hree outstanding leaders of Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood were feted at the annual Honors Luncheon on Sunday, February 8. This year’s beautiful event – featuring delicious food, lovely decorations, a raffle and silent auction, and a captivating musical performance by America’s Got Talent finalist and national touring artist Christopher Eisenberg – took place at the Lakewood Ranch Country Club and was chaired by last year’s honoree Ethel Gross. Recognized as “Triple Crown” honorees were Cindy Gilburne, Dorothy Quint and Laura Zalkin. Cindy
Gilburne, a Sisterhood past president and an Adult Bat Mitzvah, is credited with bringing fresh new leadership to Sisterhood. In the words of Rabbi Brenner Glickman: “Cindy is the most charming, the most fun, and the most engaging. When she stepped up to lead our Sisterhood, she did so with devotion, love and energy. She brought everyone in because we all wanted to be with her.” Honoree Laura Zalkin is also a past president of Sisterhood as well as cochair of the annual Estate/Rummage Sale. An accomplished horsewoman, she frequently donates her winnings to Temple Emanu-El. “Laura is a picture of grace and righteousness. There is not a mitzvah that she will not do,” Rabbi Glickman commented. “She is a woman of valor…And she has never stopped serving.” Honoree Dorothy Quint serves on the Sisterhood Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood “Triple Crown” honorees executive board and chairs Cindy Gilburne, Laura Zalkin and Dorothy Quint the popular Interfaith Tea. greeted performer Christopher Eisenberg She also oversees the backpack program that enables Temple Emanu-El Religious School students to supply food to needy Lakeview Elementary students. “Dorothy is a superwoman,” marveled Rabbi Glickman. “How can she be everywhere and do everything? She is a role model for our children and our adults.” Proceeds from the Honors Luncheon benefitted Temple Emanu-El Religious School. Mazel tov Sharing smiles were Temple Emanu-El members and many thanks to the (top) Susi Steenbarger, Sisterhood president Linda Weiss, “Triple Crown” honorees! Lynn Sacks, (bottom) Judy Gibbs, Susan Mallitz
We’ll Point You in the Right Direction
TBS honors Sheldon and Beverly Silverstein
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n February, Temple Beth Sholom Men’s Club honored Sheldon and Beverly Silverstein with a congregational dinner and Friday night Shabbat service. Over 200 people were on hand to show their appreciation and hear a moving tribute to Shelly and Beverly for their many dedicated years of service to TBS. The Silversteins have been TBS members for 30 years. Beverly Silverstein and Carolyn Kaplan were responsible for opening the TBS Sisterhood Judaica Shop, as they saw the need for an outlet to serve all local Jews. Beverly was responsible for fundraising for
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Admission: Each event is $5 for APJA members, $10 for non-members (payable at the door). Refreshments will be served.
To join, add your talents to the program, or learn more about APJA please contact APJA President, Rabbi Goldie Milgram, rebgoldie@gmail.com The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is proud to sponsor The Association of Professional Jewish Artists
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the opening and ran the business for 17 years. Hundreds of thousands of dollarsk were raised for various projects andt improvements. Beverly also chaired ac fundraising campaign to repair TBS’sd existing Torahs and to purchase a newM one. She was also active as Sisterhoodg a president and treasurer. Shelly initiated the first morn-c ing minyan over 29 years ago, and itl continues to this day. He felt the needl to provide locals and visitors alikes a venue for worship and kaddish. Eighteen years ago, Shelly began theo still-active Kristallnacht candle memo-M rial program. Special yellow candlest are mailed to templew members to burn ina remembrance of Yomu HaShoah. For seven-u teen years, Shelly wast treasurer of the Men’s w Club. A dear friend of theF Silversteins and tributel chair, Marvin Younger-p man, said, “I consideri them to be the under-t Sheldon and Beverly Silverstein with event chair Marv Youngerman (photo credits: RGB Media Services, LLC) ground of TBS, simi-i lar to the underground during WWII, where faceless and nameless people fought for the survival of their country. They are modest individuals whose love for TBS is so very apparent. I would not hesitate to say that as a couple they have contributed more than any couple during the past 30 years.” The Silverstein family (Sheldon and Beverly at bottom right)
Historic Southside Village ∙ 1924 South Osprey Avenue Sarasota ∙ (941) 955-9856 ∙ MortonsMarket.com
April 2015
COMMUNITY FOCUS
13A
Jeffrey Borenstein searches for a kidney donor
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ime is growing short for Jeffrey Borenstein. Borenstein is suffering from kidney failure and has been spending the past few winters in Sarasota because cold weather aggravates his condition. Although dialysis is keeping the Massachusetts resident in reasonably good health, Borenstein needs to find a kidney donor soon. Dialysis is not a cure, just a life support system with a limited time frame. Each passing day lessens the prospects of a long-term solution. A longtime and active member of Temple Beth Zion in Brookline, Massachusetts, he went through the traditional channels – hospital lists, websites and word of mouth – to find a donor. After several years of coming up empty, however, he decided to ramp up his efforts and try a new strategy that relies heavily on social media. Borenstein has launched a website, www.jeffreyneedsakidney.com, and a Facebook page. With the help of a publicist, he is contacting the local newspapers and seeking radio and television interviews. He is hanging up posters in the greater Boston area and encouraging friends and family to do the same.
The Jewish Advocate ran a feature story about him last November and he has registered with Renewal (www. life-renewal.org), a nonprofit organization that assists Jewish people with kidney donations.
says Borenstein, 68, who reads the Torah at services and is a member of several Temple Beth Zion committees. “People have come forward and volunteered to be donors but have not been a match for me, medically, so we go back to square one. I have tried family members and friends but they were disqualified for medical reasons or were unable to become donors. “Just about every day I spend several hours searching websites, sending emails and making phone calls. I have had prospects but no one has made it to the finish line.” He is hoping that his new campaign will yield better results. “It’s a different approach and it might work.” says Borenstein. “All I need is one Jeffrey Borenstein and granddaughter Raya compassionate person He has registered in the kidney who is a match, someone who wants to transplant departments of four hospiprovide the ultimate gift of life.” tals, including the Mayo Clinic in JackHe needs three dialysis treatsonville. ments per week. Each session is four “It’s a very frustrating process,” hours long and leaves him physically
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drained. At times, complications with the treatment have serious side effects and land him in the emergency room. Missing even one session could have serious medical repercussions so he had to find a medical facility in the Sarasota area to continue his dialysis before making any travel plans. Borenstein and his wife, Lilly, enjoy socializing, traveling and being outdoors but these events need to be carefully planned to allow for the next dialysis treatment. At one time, Borenstein led an energetic lifestyle that included skiing and other outdoor activities but, in addition to his diminished vitality, he can no longer tolerate cold weather. With a transplant, he can reclaim his life and his passion for the outdoors. “It really takes a special kind of person, and I am optimistic that someone is out there who wants to help me,” Borenstein says. “We’re all praying that this new campaign will help find that person.” For additional information, see www.jeffreyneedsakidney.com. Borenstein can be reached at 508.216.0617 or jborenst@verizon.net.
Happy Passover Tidewell Hospice is committed to meeting the spiritual and physical needs of our patients and families. As a certified Jewish Hospice, Tidewell offers: • Mezuzah and Shabbat candles • Spiritual consultation with Rabbi on request • Doula services through Jewish Family & Children’s Services • Bible and prayer book www.tidewell.org • 941-552-7500 • 855-Tidewell
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14A
April 2015
JEWISH INTEREST
Song can lift the spirit and heal the heart: The fiddler plays…the Hasid sings! By Arlene Stolnitz
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nspiring the heart and expressing the soul – this is the very essence of the music of the Hasidim. The beating heart of Hasidism are the nigunim, tunes which capture the spirit of the joyous worship of God. In Hasidic Judaism, songs are sung at a tisch or table, a gathering of Hasidim around their rebbe at which speeches on Torah subjects, singing of melodies known Arlene Stolnitz as nigunim and zemirot (or hymns) are sung, followed by refreshments. Hasidim consider this a time of great holiness. Nigunim may also be sung in the Shabbat and festival prayers, on sacred occasions or on weekdays. Singing of nigunim represents the Hasid’s connection with God and with his admor (teacher/rebbe), and distinguishes Hasidim from the more stringent Lithuanian Jewish tradition. Hasidim set piety above learning and regard the expression of joy as a chief religious duty. Hasidic leaders believe that vocal music is the best medium of rising to salvation. “Through song, calamities can be removed.” Nigunim are an integral part of the collective memory of Hasidism. Most were preserved and transmitted orally from one generation to the next by the Hasidim and klezmers. They were not written down because their composers lacked any formal musical education. Consequently, a large percentage of the nigunim were lost in the Holocaust. Elie Weisel often speaks publicly about his memories of zemirot sung after
family Shabbat dinners in pre-World War II times in his shtetl, Wishnietz. It is poignant to hear him sing these melodies on rare and intimate occasions. Those who attended the North American Jewish Choral Festival in the Catskills several years ago were honored to witness him singing those melodies. Hasidic tunes sung by the Sarasota Jewish Chorale are a popular part of its repertoire. One popular melody often requested is “Shmelke’s Nigun,” a wordless tune which expresses joy to the Almighty. It uses phrases and syllables such as “ya-na-na-na” and “yie-lulu-lie” rather than words as the purest form of expression. “Nigun Talmedei Besht,” another well-known nigun, was sung by students of the Baal Shem Tov. Founder of the Hasidic movement, Rabbi Israel ben Eliezer (1700-1760) was known as Master of the Good Name (Baal Shem Tov) and which was abbreviated as “Besht,” an acronymn from the letters comprising his name – bet ayin shin tet. He believed in the supreme importance of the nigun as a form of prayer. The song uses syllables such as “ya-ba-ba-by” and “i-dy-dy-dy-da-dady.” The sounds are derived from the Yiddish language as spoken by Hasidic sects of Eastern Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries. “Nigun Bialik” is a classic Hasidic nigun that uses the syllable “la” throughout the entire song. Even though it predates its Israeli popularity, it became a favorite at Oneg Shabbat cultural sessions in Tel Aviv in the 1920s. Later it was popular as a hora dance. Its name was given to honor Chaim Nachman Bialik, possibly the
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greatest modern Hebrew poet, who had settled in Tel Aviv in 1924 and who presided over those cultural sessions. Prior to that time, in music collections, it was known as “Nigun # 65.” A humorous Hasidic song from Eastern Europe is “Der Rebbe.” The Rebbe was considered to be a saintly person whose followers accepted every word and action without question. After the conclusion of the Sabbath, the merrymaking begins when he calls for the musicians. First, the fiddlers play, then the paiklers (flutists) perform. When the Rebbe laughs, they all laugh; when he sings and dances, so do they. But when the Rebbe gives a sermon, they all fall asleep!
Nowadays the term “Hasidic music” evokes a whole new genre of music which will be the subject of a future article. The “Singing Rabbi,” Shlomo Carlebach, has popularized music with his Neo-Hasidic style which has captured the imagination of a new generation. Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sarasota Jewish Chorale, has sung in choral groups for over 25 years. A retired educator from Rochester, New York, and a member of Venice’s Exsultate!, she is a graduate of the Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s Leadership Institute. Her interest in choral music has led to this series of articles on Jewish Folk Music in the Diaspora.
K’zohar Ha-Ivrit
Misim, misim – Taxes, taxes By Dr. Rachel Zohar Dulin
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he month of April conjures tax time. Never mind that we are entering the time of S’firat haomer, the counting of days between Pesach and Sha-vu-ot. For many of us, counting the days to April 15 is at the center of concern. To alleviate the stress, let us look at the words for ‘taxes’ in Hebrew. In the Bible there are a few Dr. Rachel Dulin words which refer to taxes. For example, ma-a ser -‘tithe,’ ma-set - ‘gift,’ min-cha - ‘offering,’ and me-ckes - ‘levy,’ all indicate that collecting taxes from the people is a practice imposed on the population from very early days of history in order to carry the tasks of the State or to fill up the coffers of conquering forces. From the biblical narration, it is not clear how taxes were collected in Israel. However, we do know that the kings had special officers in the court responsible for collecting taxes (I kgs 4: 7-19; II kgs 15:19-20). And, archeological findings support the assertion that there were systematic lists and measurements pertaining to the collection of taxes. To wit, jars were found in Israel with the inscription la-me-leck, literally ‘to the king,’ presupposing that agricultural produce such as oil or wine were collected in these containers designated as taxes for the king. An interesting biblical word in this context is maas. In most cases maas means ‘forced labor.’ It is close
to the Aramaic misa and the Egyptian ms meaning ‘bring’ or ‘sacrifice.’ The word appears 23 times in the Text. In a few places maas means monetary tax (II kings 15:19; Es 10:1), but in most cases it indicates that forced labor, as tax, was a practice imposed on the population by either the ruling kings (I Kings 5:27) or by a conquering force (Josh 16:10). This kind of taxation was called maas oved, literally ‘laborer tax’ (oved means ‘laborer’). It is not clear when maas (pl. misim) received its modern meaning of taxation and fees imposed by governmental authorities. The list of these misim is long and we will mention but a few. Maas hack-na-sah is ‘income tax’ (hack-na-sah means ‘income’), maas ne-si-ot is ‘travel tax’ (ne-siot means ‘travel’) and maas motarot means ‘luxury tax’ (motarot means ‘luxury’), and so it goes. It becomes clear that each one of us is a meshalem misim, ‘the payer of taxes’ (me-shalem means ‘payer’), but some of us are paturim mi-maas, ‘exempt from tax’ (paturim means ‘exempt’). To conclude, I wish to mention the Hebrew phrase maas se-pha-ta-yim, literally ‘lips tax’ and figuratively ‘lip service.’ It is interesting that in Hebrew the insincere words of compliance is rooted in taxation. I hope none of us will ever need to pay this maas and may the misim we are paying be put to good use. Dr. Rachel Zohar Dulin is a professor of biblical literature at Spertus College in Chicago and an adjunct professor of Hebrew and Bible at New College in Sarasota.
For over 45 community events in April, see the Jewish Happenings section in this issue.
April 2015
JEWISH INTEREST
15A
Lincoln manuscripts illuminate his Jewish connections By Philip K. Jason, Special to The Jewish News Lincoln and the Jews: A History by Jonathan D. Sarna and Benjamin Shapell. Thomas Dunne Books. 288 pages. $40.
e o t once a fresh perspective on h Jewish American life in midnineteenth century America and a fresh perspective on President -Lincoln, Lincoln and the Jews is also la splendid coffee table attraction. With -its high-quality reproductions of Lincoln photographs a and Lincoln mana uscripts (most of y them holdings of r the Shapell Mans uscript Foundac tion, the book’s copyright owner), this handsome, oversized volume Phil Jason will be the solution to finding a great gift for friends who are book lovers and especially history fans. Its main value, however, is the story it tells. Unlike the U.S. presidents who came before him – and most of those who came after him – Lincoln had many Jewish friends. In a country where anti-Semitism festered, Lincoln showed in his words and actions a fullhearted respect for Jews as a historic people and as fellow citizens. With these perspectives on full display, he stretched the boundaries of political risk-taking. Of course, this attitude toward Jews was thoroughly consistent with the humanism of the man who could craft the Emancipation Proclamation. Talk about bypassing Congress! When Lincoln was born in 1809, there were only about 3,000 Jews in the entire United States, mostly in the major Atlantic ports. At the end of his life, the number had grown to over 150,000. Lincoln would have met few, if any, Jews during his childhood years. In his professional life as a lawyer and politician, he met many. With some, he developed intimate acquaintanceships and friendships.
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As Prof. Jonathan D. Sarna points out in his introduction, “Experience had taught him to trust Jews, even when those around him displayed ugly prejudices against them.” Among the prominent Jews with whom Lincoln had long and fruitful relationships, Abraham Jonas was perhaps the most important. They met when Jonas moved to Quincy, Illinois. Jonas, a businessman and lawyer, was a dynamic orator and canny politician who served with Lincoln in the Illinois legislature. Both men made the transition from Whig to Republican, and both praised Henry Clay. Jonas was one of the first to consider Lincoln to be presidential material, and he did much to help Lincoln succeed in reaching the presidency. Issachar Zacharie was Lincoln’s chiropodist and, at Lincoln’s request, was charged with several important political tasks during the Civil War. Among these was some spy work regarding the movement of supplies to the Confederate Army. He was also involved in behind-the-scenes peacemaking efforts. The authors, Sarna and Shapell, very effectively present the paper trail
Benjamin Shapell
Jonathan D. Sarna
of Lincoln’s complex relationships with these men and many, many others of the Jewish faith. Names like Charles Bernays (consul to Zurich and Elsinore) and Ferdinand Sarner (first Jewish regimental Jewish chaplain in the Union Army) are only two of many dozens of Jewish citizens whose lives connect with Lincoln’s in important ways. With regard to the chaplaincy, it should be noted that until Lincoln got a law passed eliminating the restriction,
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only Christians could serve as chaplains. This change was at the urging of Jewish acquaintances. Though Lincoln received great support from the growing Jewish community, the authors do not skirt the fact that many Southern Jews were hostile towards abolition and strong supporters of the Confederate cause. Lincoln and the Jews is a well thought out and carefully designed production. The glossy, heavyweight paper gives the book a refined, classy feel. The quality of the color reproduction (done in China, of course) is impressive; the page layout balances text and illustrations with grace and generates a respect for Lincoln’s estimable language skill for both formal and informal occasions. To see the evidence of his own hand building responses to solicitations or requesting a favor on someone’s behalf or asserting a position on an important issue makes the reader/beholder feel the very presence of a great humanitarian. Thanks to uncredited book designer Jason Snyder for a splendid job. One can feel Lincoln’s comfort with his Jewish friends and acquaintances; one can feel their comfort with him. This is a comfort that stems in part from the president’s pushing against the constant pressure to have the United States defined as a Christian nation in its public declarations. He did this not merely as a response to the interests of his Jewish friends but as a matter of larger principle – perhaps a
vision – of a truly inclusive nation whose greatness lay in this inclusiveness. The book benefits from such features as a twopage graphic presentation of “Lincoln’s Jewish Connections,” concentric circles around the hub of Lincoln’s face organized by the nature of the relationship: friends, associates & supporters, acquaintances, appointments & pardons. A blow-up poster of these pages would make a terrific teaching tool. The endnotes, keyed to the chapters, are extensive, clear and engaging; the index performs its difficult task with a quiet confidence. Do I need say that this is a dazzling slice of Jewish history in America by a co-author (Sarna) who has already taken on the larger subject in his authoritative American Judaism: A History (2005)? In this new book, Sarna provides a capsule version of the story about how Lincoln revoked General Grant’s infamous order expelling Jews from jurisdictions under his wartime command. The full treatment is in Sarna’s recent When General Grant Expelled the Jews (2012). Make sure that someone you care about receives a copy of Lincoln and the Jews. Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeritus of English from the United States Naval Academy. He reviews regularly for Florida Weekly, Jewish Book World, Southern Literary Review, and other publications. Please visit Phil’s website at www.philjason.wordpress.com.
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April 2015
JEWISH FEDERATION
COMMUNITY PROGRAM
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m PUBLICATIONS The Jewish News, Connections, E-blasts
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Heller IAI: Israel Advocacy
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April 2015
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April 2015
JEWISH INTEREST
The liberation of the camps, April 1945 By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD
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t was always inevitable that this month would see a plethora of events and commemorations recognizing the liberation of the camps seventy years ago. Across the nation and across the world, people will be taking note of what happened in Europe in April 1945. Yet when discussion gets around to “the liberation of the camps,” what do people mean? Was Dr. Paul Bartrop the period under discussion one singular event? How did “liberation” take place? Who brought it about? The answer, as with most momentous events, is far from easy to explain. In January 1945, Auschwitz was evacuated by the Nazis, and a great many of the prisoners there were sent on hideous death marches. They were evacuated in the face of Soviet progress; indeed, the Russians were so close while the prisoners were marching away that the sounds of battle could be distinguished clearly. They suffered terribly during the forced marches that took them toward the west, and countless numbers perished. When they arrived at their new destinations their trials were hardly eased, as they faced massive overcrowding in the camps to which they had been evacuated. Bergen-Belsen in northern Germany was perhaps the supreme example of the chaos, overcrowding and general horror that struck all the camps. Belsen was yet another of the many types of concentration camp, a euphemisticallytermed Krankenlager, or “sick camp.” In its way, Belsen has left just as indelible an image of the Nazi system on the Western mind as Auschwitz has in its. Established during the second half of 1943, the camp is best remembered for the images brought to the world at the time of its liberation by the British in April 1945. As recalled by one British observer, “the camp area was strewn with corpses; thousands of skeletally emaciated and fatally ill people were crowded into miserable barracks, so spent by hunger and disease that even in the days and weeks following liberation large numbers of them died.” Pictures of this horror were circulated throughout the world. Newsreels were broadcast in local theatres, and citizens were urged to view them as a civic duty. Bergen-Belsen became the first evidence of the inhuman barbarity and total state of terror of the National Socialist concentration camp system. On April 15, the day of the liberation, the British found approximately 60,985 survivors; there were some ten thousand unburied dead who lay where they had fallen in the compound, and another fifteen thousand succumbed to disease and starvation after the British arrived. Ironically, Bergen-Belsen had never been given formal concentration camp status. In the final months of the war, however, a fierce typhoid and typhus epidemic and tuberculosis devastated the camp, which had grown fourfold in population within two months, and as a result the area looked like a charnel house from ancient times when the British arrived. As they grasped the reality of their first liberated camp, their only impression was that this was a metaphor for horror. Due to the dislocation of the north German rail network because of constant Allied bombing, the Nazis could not transport food to Belsen; medicine, in the form of both doctors and equipment, was completely lacking. Moreover, no attempt had been made by the
Nazis to clean the place up. One of the first things the British did, therefore, was to set the captured Nazi guards to work helping gather the dead together in advance of their burial. In images that have come to represent for many what the liberation signified, most of those who had died were simply piled up in what became mountains of putrescent flesh, and then shoved unceremoniously into giant pits dug by British Army bulldozers. The prisoners, dropped into places like Belsen to await liberation through either death or an Allied victory, had little time to wait in real terms, though each day dragged by unendingly. Painfully slowly, as German units both west and east surrendered, the camps were liberated. On April 12, 1945, the Dutch transit camp at Westerbork was set free; the next day, Buchenwald’s inmates rose against their SS guards and took over the camp, handing it to the Americans. Belsen was liberated by the British Army on April 15, and on April 23 the SS transferred Mauthausen to the International Committee of the Red Cross. The next day Dachau, after twelve years and twenty-eight days of unending misery and abuse,
was overrun by the U.S. Army. Five days later, on 29 April, Ravensbrück was liberated. The liberations continued into the next month, with Theresienstadt handed over to the Red Cross by the Nazis on May 2, and transferred by the Red Cross to the Russians on May 4. American troops took possession of Mauthausen – the last major camp to be liberated in the west, on May 8. By this stage, the military side of the war was over. What now remained was to reconstruct new lives and a new Europe from the ashes and ruins of the old, a task that would prove as daunting as it was heart-rending. As the present looked as though it was coming under control, thoughts turned uncertainly towards the future, with one question uppermost in the minds of many: What was to be the fate of the survivors? Only the passage of time, over the next few weeks, months and years, would tell. Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of History and the Director of the Center for Judaic, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies at Florida Gulf Coast University. He can be reached at pbartrop@fgcu.edu.
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Holocaust play at FGCU
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n Tuesday, April 14, Florida Gulf Coast University’s Center for Judaic, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies (in Fort Myers) will be staging a reading of the award-winning play If the Whole Body Dies: Raphael Lemkin and the Treaty Against Genocide by Robert Skloot. The play reading will be taking place in order to mark Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day), which commences at sundown the following evening. Lemkin, a Polish Jew who invented the word ‘genocide’ in 1944, will be portrayed by Skloot himself. The play takes place over the course of August 27, 1959, the last full day of Lemkin’s life. Frustrated by political intractability, he continues to lobby for the adoption by the United States Senate of the UN Convention on Genocide. As the day progresses, he reflects on the inspirations for his life’s work: his mother, who died in the Shoah; and the young, tragically optimistic Anne Frank. His reveries are interrupted by telephone calls from creditors, and by conversations with his publisher who turns down the opportunity to publish his memoirs. Despite this, his frustrations are alleviated by his mental interludes, the motivation for him to continue to struggle for the international recognition and ratification of the treaty bearing the word he invented, genocide. Skloot will be accompanied in this play reading by a number of FGCU students, who will read the parts of those interfering with Lemkin’s day. The event will take place in Edwards Hall, room 112, at 7:00 p.m. At the conclusion of the performance, Dr. Skloot will engage in a discussion with audience members about the play, the life of Raphael Lemkin, and genocide in the modern world. Attendance is free and open to the public, and there is no need to register. For more information, please contact Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director of the Center for Judaic, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies, at pbartrop@fgcu.edu.
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April 2015
JEWISH INTEREST
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Jerusalem Post Crossword PuzzleS “The Final Frontier” By David Benkof 1
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WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE YOUR VOICE WILL BE HEARD. To become a member or for more information: Contact Ilene Fox at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232
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Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota FL 34232 TheJewishFederation.org
APRIL 14............. Happy Hour @ White Horse Pub
A group for Jewish adults in their 20s-40s living in SarasotaManatee offering chances to MEET, SOCIALIZE and GIVE BACK.
MAY 12.............. Happy Hour @ Darwin’s on 4th JUNE 9............... Happy Hour @ Louies Modern JULY 14.............. Happy Hour @ Daiquiri Deck JULY 25.............. YAD Pool Party AUGUST 11......... Happy Hour @ Patrick’s SEPTEMBER 8..... Happy Hour @ Carmel Café SEPTEMBER 23.... Break Fast Meal OCTOBER 13........ Happy Hour @ Sarasota Wine Club
NOVEMBER 10..... Happy Hour @ Shamrock Pub DECEMBER 8........ Happy Hour @ Cheesecake Factory
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Across 1. Actor Leonard, the subject of this puzzle, who died February 27, 2015 6. Seltzer 10. JAP type 14. Debbie Friedman’s “Let Us ___” 15. Animals the priests would “use” in the Temple 16. Look (over), like a rabbi with a medieval text 17. Prepares one’s knees to bow during the Aleinu 18. “___ Fair” (1989 George Segal movie about a war-games retreat) 19. What an IDF soldier may be at? 20. Do it to yourself to prepare for the Birkat Hamazon 21. 1977-1982 TV series about mysterious phenomena 23. Non-kosher cocktail variety? 25. Comes close to beating Maccabi Haifa 26. “___-Devil” (1989 comedy with Roseanne Barr) 27. Transports in Rahm’s city 28. Territory that would refuse its refuseniks (abbr.) 31. With 55-Across, catchphrase of 69-Across 36. Chanukah commemorates the fight when one of Zeus was erected in the Temple 38. He got miffed that he wasn’t notified about Netanyahu’s speech to Congress 39. Yiddish interjections of note 41. “Hearts ___” (early 1990s Ed Asner sitcom) 42. Circumcising grammatically? 44. 1966-1969 TV series about space exploration 46. Chazer’s home 47. Tiny drops of water about which there’s a Passover prayer 49. Shalom from Josephus 50. Kind of truck whose number of wheels equals chai 51. Matzahs cannot have them 55. See 31-Across 59. Reagan Interior Secretary who said “a black, a woman, two Jews and a cripple” 61. Feel ready for a Shabbos nap 62. Filled with righteous indignation 63. Italian city whose Jewish ghetto was built in 1660 64. Cuban prisoner Gross finally freed in December 2014
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Down 1. Acts like a gonif 2. “God is One” and “The dead will rise,” e.g. 3. October or Tishre 4. Seder has it and means it 5. In Ladino, it’s “Si” 6. “Milk” Best Actor Oscar winner 7. Magical birds that helped a famous Daniel Radcliffe character 8. Leave out, as the o when spelling the word G-d 9. Uses a slingshot against Goliath, e.g. 10. Groucho Marx headwear 11. 2014 Russell Crowe Bible movie 12. “... maybe more, maybe less... who knows exactly?” 13. It’s fleishig 21. ‘Net abbreviation for a maven 22. Stop on the way to Eilat 24. National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame hockey player Bob Nystrom, e.g. 28. Instruction in Joan Nathan’s “Quiches, Kugels and Couscous” 29. What Bob Dylan or Joel Coen mean by “You betcha!” 30. Smell like pickles in brine 31. Mandelbrot are formed into these before they’re baked and cut 32. How Steve Wynn expresses skepticism? 33. “Opinions ___” (common statement about Jewish law) 34. Bird that isn’t kosher because it resembles the forbidden ostrich 35. “Makin’ Whoopee” lyricist Kahn 37. In the back of the ship Altalena 40. Became Rabbi Emeritus, e.g. 43. Israel’s recent nationality bill does this to Arabic from its status as an official national language 45. Give testimony to a beit din 48. Start to use more sekhel 50. Got rid of some shekels 52. One way to prepare the home for Shabbat 53. Dance music heard in World War II ghettos 54. Philosophy that influenced Philo of Alexandria 55. Not the whole megillah 56. Exodus river 57. The clothing of Joseph’s brothers, perhaps 58. Actress Gilpin who replaced Lisa Kudrow in the role of Roz Doyle on “Frasier” 60. Burning the chametz, e.g. 63. Kind of mask worn by Israelis during the Gulf War
April 2015
JEWISH INTEREST
Stars of David
By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist Editor’s note: Persons in BOLD CAPS are deemed by Nate Bloom to be Jewish for the purpose of the column. Persons identified as Jewish have at least one Jewish parent and were not raised in a faith other than Judaism – and don’t identify with a faith other than Judaism as an adult. Converts to Judaism, of course, are also identified as Jewish. Mensch=Nimoy Here’s a story about the late LEONARD NIMOY that I just came upon that was not in any obit. Last August, WALTER “Chekov” KOENIG, 78, spoke to the Las Vegas Sun newspaper. About Nimoy, he said: “Leonard was a very good man. Sound ethics and a good sense of morality [for example] when it came to the attention of the cast that there was a disparity in pay, in that George [Takei/ “Mr. Sulu”] and I were getting the same pay, but Nichelle [Nichols/ “Uhura”] was not getting as much, I took it to Leonard and he took it to the front office and they corrected that.” The website Trekmovie. com contacted Nimoy, who confirmed the story. He added: “There was also the case where George and Nichelle were not hired to do their voices in the animated series. I refused to do Spock until they were hired. Mr. Roddenberry [Star Trek’s creator] started calling me the conscience of Star Trek.” The website author noted that Nimoy’s stand for Nichols back in the ’60s took some courage: he was then
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just a cast member without much pull and it could have hurt his career. The author added that the story just proves that “Nimoy is a mensch.” The first visitor comment on the article was: “There are people who don’t know Nimoy is a mensch?” (By the way, the Jewish members of the main cast of Star Trek included Nimoy, Koenig, and WILLIAM SHATNER, now 83. Notable Jewish guest stars included the late MARK LENARD and the late ARLENE MARTEL, as, respectively, Spock’s father and fiancée.) New-ish on TV The Fox series Empire, which began in January, has become a hit. It centers around an African-American hip-hop mogul (Terrence Howard) and his extended family. In the February 25 episode, the mogul’s middle son, Jamal, a singer, reveals to the world that he is gay. Playing Jamal is JUSSIE SMOLLETT, 31, who is the son of a Jewish father and African-American mother. Smollett, who is gay in real life, posted an Instagram photo of himself lighting Hanukkah candles last December.
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Interested in Your Family’s History? Ten years of doing a Jewish celebrities column has turned Nate Bloom (see column at left) into something of an expert on finding basic family history records and articles mentioning a “searched-for” person. During these 10 years, he has put together a small team of “mavens” who aid his research. Most professional family history experts charge at least $1,000 for a full family tree. However, many people just want to get “started” by tracing one particular family branch.
So here’s the deal: Send Nate an email at nteibloom@aol.com, tell him you saw this ad in The Jewish News, and include your phone number (area code, too). Nate will then contact you about doing a “limited” family history for you at a modest cost (no more than $100). No upfront payment. Battle Creek is a CBS police drama, with comedy, that is set in Battle Creek, Michigan (but not filmed there). Josh Duhamel plays an FBI agent with many resources who is tasked with helping the cash-strapped local police. Dean Winters plays a gruff, but smart local detective who works with the FBI. Here are examples of the show’s quirky humor: The city’s mayor is a dead-ringer for Toronto’s “wacky” exmayor, Rob Ford, and in the second episode, the police had to deal with a criminal cartel selling stolen maple syrup. (Began March 1. New shows air Fridays at 10:00 p.m.) The co-creator of the series is the “hot” Vince Gilligan (creator of Breaking Bad). He wrote the Battle Creek pilot twelve years ago. The studio brought in DAVID SHORE, 55, the creator of House, to update the pilot and help write new episodes. Shore says, “I raised the child that Gilligan birthed.” Shore, by the way, comes from a religious Toronto family. His
twin younger brothers are both Aish HaTorah (Orthodox) rabbis. PATRICIA ARQUETTE, 46, who won the best supporting actress Oscar for Boyhood and a best actress Emmy for Medium, returned to TV as the star of the new series CSI Cyber. She plays the head of an FBI team of cybercrime investigators. (Started on CBS on March 5. New shows air Thursdays at 10:00 p.m.) The Royals is the E! cable network’s first “scripted” series. It started on March 15 and new episodes air Sunday nights. Elizabeth Hurley stars as Queen Helena, the matriarch of a fictional British royal family (this one has a reigning king). JOAN COLLINS, now 83, has a supporting role as Helena’s mother, a Duchess. In real life, Collins, whose father was Jewish, was recently made a British “Dame” (equivalent of knighthood). Yes, I am aware Collins starred in a very good original Star Trek episode.
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April 2015
JEWISH INTEREST
National survey of American Jewish college students W shows high rate of anti-Semitism on campuses
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ore than half of 1,157 selfidentified Jewish students at 55 campuses nationwide who took part in an online survey reported having been subjected to or having witnessed anti-Semitism on their campuses, according to a new report issued jointly by Trinity College (Hartford, Connecticut) and the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law (Washington, D.C.). The National Demographic Survey of American Jewish College Students, which covered a variety of topics, was conducted in spring 2014 by a research team from Trinity College. Of the 1,157 students in the sample, 54 percent reported instances of anti-Semitism on campus during the first six months of the 2013-2014 academic year. The data provide a snapshot of the types, context and location of anti-Semitism as experienced by a large national sample of Jewish students at university and fouryear college campuses. The rates of victimization for students with different social characteristics – such as type of campus, year of study, academic major, demographics, religiosity or politics – ranged from a low of 44 percent to a high of 73 percent. There was only a slight variation in the rates across the regions of the United States, strongly suggesting that anti-Semitism on campus is a nationwide problem. The Trinity College researchers who led the team conducting the survey were Barry Kosmin and Ariela Keysar, public policy and law professors and the authors of other well-known
national social surveys, including the American Religion Identification Survey (ARIS) series. Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law (LDB) President Kenneth L. Marcus, former head of the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights and author of a forthcoming volume on The Definition of Anti-Semitism (Oxford University Press, 2015), provided recommendations on the report. Kosmin and Keysar pointed out that, historically, the most likely targets of anti-Semitism in the general population have been Orthodox Jewish males, who tend to be easily identified by perpetrators. However, this tendency does not seem to be the case on college campuses. Conservative and Reform Jewish students are more likely than Orthodox students to report being victims. Membership in a Jewish campus organization also raises the likelihood of a student reporting anti-Semitism. According to Kosmin, “The patterns and high rates of anti-Semitism that were reported were surprising. Rather than being localized to a few campuses or restricted to politically active or religious students, this problem is widespread. Jewish students are subjected to both traditional prejudice and the new political anti-Semitism.” Another finding was that female students were more likely than males to report anti-Semitism. “Jewish women seem to feel more vulnerable on campus, with 59 percent of female students versus 51 percent of males telling us that they have personally witnessed or experienced anti-Semitism,” said
Keysar. “This gender gap is alarming and needs to be further explored,” she added. Kosmin and Keysar observed that while anti-Semitism is often linked to anti-Zionism, this survey was undertaken in the spring of 2014, before the summer 2014 conflict in Gaza that led to a worldwide flare-up in anti-Semitism. Numbers of participating students voiced concern that their experiences of anti-Semitism made for an uncomfortable campus climate. In his foreword for the report, Marcus wrote, “We hear frequently from college students who find that their experiences of anti-Semitism are not taken seriously. A decade ago, Jewish college students spoke of the vindication that they felt when the U.S. Civil Rights Commission gave voice to their concerns,” added Marcus, who, as then-staff director, drafted the Commission’s announcement that campus anti-Semitism had become a “serious problem” at many universities around the country. “This report should provide a similar vindication, since it indicates that the scope of this problem is greater than most observers had realized.” The report includes recommendations for colleges, universities and Jewish community organizations to remedy this situation. A follow-up study could examine incidents of antiSemitism in more detail with the aim of better understanding the problem and enhancing tolerance on U.S. campuses. “Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, every federally funded institution of higher learning has an obligation to ensure equal educational opportunity for its students. Kosmin and Keysar’s eye-opening findings should awaken authorities to the need to address campus anti-Semitism much more aggressively, comprehensively and effectively than they are now doing. Moreover, this report should guide more thoughtful, researchbased responses to this problem,”
recommended Marcus. The National Demographic Survey of American Jewish College Students and the 2014 Anti-Semitism Report were supported by funding grants from the Pears Foundation, U.K.; Posen Foundation, Switzerland; Zachs Foundation and Mendelson Foundation, Connecticut; and the Jim Joseph Foundation, The Mark Bloome Fund of the Tides Foundation, and the Helen Diller Family Foundation, California. Read the Report at http://bit. ly/1w2mfTI. Contact Barry Kosmin at barry.kosmin@trincoll.edu or 860.297.2388, and Ariela Keysar at ariela.keysar@trincoll.edu or 201.784.5724. About Trinity College Founded in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1823, Trinity College (www.trincoll. edu) is an independent, nonsectarian liberal arts college with more than 2,200 students from 44 states and 62 countries. It is home to the eightholdest chapter of Phi Beta Kappa in the United States. The faculty and alumni include recipients of the Pulitzer Prize, the MacArthur award, Guggenheims, Rockefellers and other national academic awards. Trinity students integrate meaningful academic and leadership experience at all levels on the College’s celebrated campus, in the capital city of Hartford, and in communities all over the world. About Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law The Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law (LDB) is a nonprofit organization designed to protect the civil and human rights of the Jewish people, and promote justice for all. Specifically, LDB combats anti-Semitism on college and university campuses through legal advocacy, public policy education and research. It is not affiliated with the Massachusetts University, the Kentucky law school, or any of the other institutions that share the name and honor the memory of the late U.S. Supreme Court justice.
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April 2015
ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD
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What’s in that drink? Futuristic device lets you find out Want to know which watermelon is sweeter, whether an avocado is ripe, or what’s in that diamond? New pocket-sized molecular sensor reveals all. By Abigail Klein Leichman, ISRAEL21c, www.israel21c.org
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efore buying fruit at the greengrocer, steak at the butcher, or a nutritional supplement at the pharmacy, imagine taking a gadget out of your pocket, aiming it at the item and instantly seeing its quality, ripeness and nutritional value, plus a whole lot more data hidden at the molecular level. That is about to happen. Come July, Israeli company Consumer Physics will start shipping preorders of its futuristic SCiO, the world’s first consumer-grade molecular sensor. The sensor, a tiny spectrometer, allows you to get instant relevant information about the chemical make-up of just about everything around you, from foods to plants, medicines, diamonds and more, sent directly to your smartphone. “In the last 10 years or so, we’ve all gotten used to having an instant ‘search button’ in our pocket that lets us know where we are on a map, book a table at a restaurant, listen to a song in a different language and buy it and translate it,” says Consumer Physics cofounder Dror Sharon, who describes his position as “CEO and Chief Happiness Officer.” “The power in our pockets is phenomenal, but one piece is missing, and that’s information about the things in our physical world – everything from food to medicine to fuel. That’s the basic need we’re trying to answer.” Is that a good avocado? Sharon tells ISRAEL21c that Consumer Physics was founded in 2011 specifically for the purpose of bringing cutting-edge sensing technology to consumers. Before approaching investors, the team of engineers and scientists first wanted to prove to themselves
Scanning produce with SCiO clues you in on quality, ripeness and nutritional value
that a pocket-sized molecular scanner would be viable technologically and from a consumer experience perspective. They began with food, the most basic and ubiquitous part of daily life. Once they were convinced their hardware and related apps could provide the kind of information people currently cannot access but want to know, they sought and won funding from strategic
investors, from Khosla Ventures in California and through the Jerusalembased OurCrowd funding platform. Portable storage innovator Dov Moran was Consumer Physics’ first angel investor. And last summer the company completed one of the most successful Kickstarter campaigns in history, raising more than $2.7 million (starting with a goal of $200,000) from nearly 13,000 backers. These early investors will get their SCiOs first. The device, which costs $249, comes loaded with several apps divided into categories, such as dairy foods
SCiO puts molecular scanning at your fingertips
and pharmaceuticals. Other apps will be added according to need, and there’s a SCiO software development kit (SDK) available for $449; about 1,000 developers were among the Kickstarter investors. Sharon believes the possibilities are endless. For example, the device could reveal the properties of the diamond you’re thinking of buying, or the calorie count of the Hollandaise sauce at your favorite French restaurant. “We will supply apps that are going to tell you some useful information about your physical world, and we expect it to grow over time as we see how people use SCiO,” says Sharon. Googling the physical world “The SCiO molecular scanner will create the first database of matter allowing people to ‘google’ the physical world and understand more about the environment around them and what they are putting into their bodies,” says OurCrowd partner David Stark. “This has major implications for commerce, health and scientific research.” Each SCiO is made of hundreds of tailor-made components sourced from several different countries. However, Consumer Physics didn’t try to reinvent any manufacturing processes, which would have slowed the path to commercialization of its core technology. The idea is to scale quickly to the level of smartphones – billions of units per year. Sharon tells ISRAEL21c that other companies are attempting to make consumer molecular scanners, “but we have yet to see something comparable in size or cost. The efforts have accel-
L’Chayim
erated since we showed there was an interest in a solution like this.” He points out that they’re targeting a market that doesn’t exist yet, so it’s actually helpful for others to join in identifying potential users. “Every time you use SCiO you will be helping to build a database of knowledge about the stuff around us,” says Sharon. “The bigger our community gets, the more data SCiO will have about different materials and this goes right back to our community of users.” He predicts that within 10 years, people will take molecular scanning for granted to the same degree as they now take smartphone cameras for granted. “It’s cool to think about googling your
physical world, but really it’s also a basic human need,” he says. SCiO will be sold via Consumer Physics’ ecommerce platform worldwide – preorders are already arriving from customers in countries including Iraq and Afghanistan – and eventually will be sold in retail stores. For more information, visit www. consumerphysics.com/myscio/. Abigail Klein Leichman is a writer and associate editor at ISRAEL21c. Prior to moving to Israel in 2007, she was a specialty writer and copy editor at a daily newspaper in New Jersey and has freelanced for a variety of newspapers and periodicals since 1984.
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April 2015
ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD
Recollections from Gaza By David Oden, PhD
My recollections are based on an article I wrote in 1975 for New Outlook, a Middle East monthly, titled “Education & Politics in the Gaza Strip.” oday, the Gaza Strip is a Middle East territory bordered on the Mediterranean between Egypt and Israel. Ruled by Hamas, who gained control in 2007, this small territory, only slightly larger than twice the size of Washington, D.C., houses a population of almost 2,000,000, more than half of whom are under the age of 24. During the years 1972-75 there were about 25,000 registered legal laborers from Gaza working in Israel. Sources also state there were as many as 100,000 Palestinian daily laborers from both the West Bank and Gaza working in Israel. When I left for Israel in 1972, the Gaza Strip was newly under Israeli control. Egypt, formerly in control of Gaza and Sinai, had pulled out of the territory as a result of the Six-Day War in 1967. In those days, the Gaza Strip was a relatively quiet place. Israelis could visit the Strip, eat in restaurants or go to the beach, and feel safe. I was to be the Educational Staff Officer in the Gaza Strip and Sinai. It was an administrative position, similar to a Superintendent of Education, and at the same time I was to be considered a military staff officer with the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Israeli army. My job description entailed being in charge of the educational system in both Gaza and Sinai where the total population at that time was around
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500,000. I had received my PhD from Penn in 1970 in International Relations – my field of specialty being Middle Eastern studies, which I had taught in various universities and colleges. I was to oversee the administration of the local educational system which included the planning, funding and building of schools, and supervision of staff. This educational empire was divided into four regional offices, Gaza, Khan Yunis, Rafiah and El-Arish. Sixty-four schools were located in the Gaza Strip and thirty-five in the Sinai, a total of ninety-nine. The student body during the 1972-73 school year was 61,175 and the school district was staffed by 1,537 teachers and 659 support staff. In Gaza, the local Education Ministry supported an additional staff of over 2,000. I was hard-pressed to figure out what the assigned jobs of most of this extra staff entailed and finally came to the conclusion that they were on the payroll, but with no real job. Nepotism seemed to be rampant in Gaza. Teachers and other staff were often employed where no need existed. As the staff officer, I had only five assistants, two Israeli Jews from Iraq who were fluent in Arabic and acted as supervisors traveling amongst the various schools on a daily basis, and three secretaries. My Israeli staff seemed way too small to undertake effective management, and we relied on the local staff for supervision. I was personally responsible to the Israeli Minister of Education, the military government in Gaza, and the Israeli Finance Ministry which
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paid the expenses of the local school systems. Due to conflicting policies amongst these various Israeli agencies, my job functions and responsibilities created dissension between myself and the agencies. The Israeli authorities had been reluctant to incorporate or control the 127 semi-autonomous UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Work Agency) schools due to financial and political reasons. UNRWA was created in 1949-50 with the influx of Palestinian refugees into the area. The UNRWA system in 1972 included only nine grades, after which the students transferred to the government-controlled schools. ven though Egypt left Gaza after the Six-Day War in 1967, its educational system still prevailed and it continued to supply the educational books and other materials that had been censored by Israel – who had deleted the anti-Israeli and antiJewish content in the texts. But Israel did not initiate changes. On the one hand, Israel feared the upgrading of a system that would create more graduates in an already saturated whitecollar job market. On the other hand, by keeping the Egyptian methods and textbooks, it would normalize the area quickly with a link to the Arab world. One of the reasons for the low standard was because all of the 400 Egyptian secondary school teachers who returned home after the Six-Day War in 1967 had been replaced by poorly trained teachers and secondary school graduates; though in the early 1970s, some 250 college graduates replaced these teachers, which somewhat improved the situation. Going to a university was an aspired goal by most students, and a disdain for manual work and vocational education was prevalent. Access to secondary education was supposedly restricted to the age of seventeen, but thirty-year-olds could still be found in some schools. Even though the instructions I was given were to not make changes, I felt I needed to make the system more efficient. When I tried to weed out students who were clearly non-academic material by making secondary school exams more difficult, or by introducing psychological aptitude testing, there was great opposition by the local Arab notables and I was accused in the local press of trying to influence the minds of the young and the yet unborn by ‘brainwashing.’ My aim was to introduce vocational training for those who were clearly not academically inclined by making arrangements to train Arab teachers in Israeli vocational institutes. I was only partially successful since my motives were now suspect. The attitude was that vocational training would only serve Israel interests. The result was that students continued to take the matriculation exams (Tawjihi) over and over again even though the average numbers of students who passed the exam were between 40 and 50%, despite a passing grade of 40 out of 100. Graduating students aspired to leave
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the Gaza Strip to go to Egypt or Europe to continue their studies. Israel controlled one-third of the Gaza and Sinai population through the supervision of the educational system. Likewise, Egypt, without having to annex the area, also had control by the use of its curriculum. y two-year tenure was during a time of relative peace in Gaza. Despite all the difficulties, my relationship with the local Gaza Ministry of Education was a friendly one. We communicated in both English and Arabic, and once, the head of the local Ministry of Education even brought me a couple of souvenirs from his trips to Egypt. I traveled with an Arab driver throughout Gaza and Sinai, visiting schools regularly. I remember the exceptionally limp handshakes of the female teachers, possibly a cultural behavior. One of my interesting recollections was a visit to a school in Sinai which turned out to be a one-room mud brick structure without electricity. Here, a male teacher with a high school education, not much older than his students, lived and taught the wandering Bedouin children of different ages. Some days there were only two or three students, other days, as many as twenty-five. He taught, slept and cooked in this room with only a small kerosene lamp and stove as ‘modern’ amenities. He received food from his students, and in one corner there was a folded mattress for him to sleep on. My two Arab drivers picked up the Israeli staff daily from Israel. They traveled freely throughout Israel. I once took my driver to a wedding in an Israeli kibbutz, Ein Gev, where he partook in the festivities and stayed overnight with me. I learned from him that you’re supposed to wear wool in winter; and to plant only fruit trees and not ornamental trees, since they’re not useful. I also remember a shoe cobbler who, at first, refused to take money for making me a pair of sandals. He said he wanted me to act on behalf of his nine children in school. When I asked him how he supported his children as he hardly made a living, he fatalistically replied that ‘God will provide.’ was working in a different culture, and that was fine in the early ’70s. I got along well with the local school administration and merchants. I remember when some of the Gaza workers installed a cabinet in my apartment in Jerusalem. One day I saw their boss opening my private night table drawer to look inside, while I was in the room. When I asked him what he was doing he seemed surprised and answered that he was merely satisfying his curiosity because ‘you are in the room.’ He would have not opened the drawer if I hadn’t been present. Talk about cultural differences! I usually had lunch at the local eatery across the old Mandatory Police Station in Gaza which housed the local Ministry of Education’s administrative offices. After I had eaten my usual
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ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD
International Women’s Day 2015 – Israeli statistics
Summarized from the annual report of the Central Bureau of Statistics At the end of 2013, there were 2,986,000 women aged 15 and up living in Israel. Women 65 years old or older constituted 11.8% of the total female population, compared to 9.4% among the male population. Divorce in Israel is on the rise. In 2012, 13,685 couples divorced (8.6 for every thousand married women) Life expectancy at birth in 2013 was 80.3 years for men and 83.9 for women. In 2014, the percentage of women in the work force who were unemployed was 5.9%, similar to the percentage of unemployed men. The average monthly salary for women wage earners in 2013 was
NIS 7,280, while for men it was NIS 10,683. The average difference in wages was 31.9%; the median difference was 26.7%. This is partly because women on the average work fewer hours than men; the gap between the hourly wages of women and men was only 14.4%. The hourly wage of Arab women was higher than that of Arab men by 6.1%. Part of the reason is that the average educational level (years of study) of Arab women is higher than that of Arab men. For the first time the annual International Women’s Day report includes figures on the self-employed. In 2013, 31.9% of the self-employed were women. The average monthly wage of self-
employed women was NIS 7,406 (1.7% higher than female wageearners). Among self-employed men, the average wage was NIS 12,440 (14% higher than male wage-earners). Women constituted 57.8% of people employed in academic professions in 2014. Women formed only 32.8% of people in management positions. In high-tech, women constituted 35.5% of the total workers. Two-thirds of the people employed in traditionally female professions – caregivers, retail or wholesale salespersons, secretaries, bookkeepers, day-care workers, school teachers – were women. 32% of all women workers were employed in these professions. Students: In the 2013-14 academic year, there were 312,500 students in various institutions of higher education in Israel; 57.3% of them (179,200) were women. In contrast, in 1969-70 women constituted less than half of the students (43.3%). Social aspects: 86% of women expressed satisfaction with their lives, similar to the percentage of men. 51% of the women were satisfied with their economic situation, while 49% were not very or not at all satisfied with their economic situation. About 1.6 million women had driving licenses in 2013, 43% of the total number of licensed drivers in Israel. About 7% of the women drivers in Israel were convicted of driving offenses, compared to 15% of male Israeli drivers. The number of women who were victims of sexual harassment or theft in 2014 was higher than the number of male victims. The number of women who were victims of violence was lower than the number of male victims.
April 2015
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Recollections from Gaza...continued from previous page kabob (skewered chopped lamb) one day, the owner asked me if I had a special request for a different dish. Thinking in terms of my palate, I asked if he could cook me a rabbit. “No problem,” he replied, and he told me that he would cook it the next day. Looking forward to eating one of my favorite dishes, I was shocked to find a rabbit in a gray watery soup, with spices that seemed totally alien. Instead of the baked or stewed rabbit I was accustomed to eating, he presented me with a fare that I could hardly eat. However, I thanked him profusely, not wanting to hurt his feelings. This incident served to reinforce my feeling of two different people who not only feel, act and think differently, but also eat and cook differently. One day, at 4:00 a.m., about 30 extended family members of a student departing to study in Egypt gathered at the local bus terminal to see him off. They gave him giant packages including cans of olive oil and olives, yet in all probability the student would be back in six months. I drove with the departing students to the Suez Canal on their way to Egypt. Family ties were very important and it seemed a student,
and maybe any other person, could count on his family to support him in more ways than one. Once the group reached the Canal they were greeted by a large contingent of foreign reporters who filmed the event. I still remember seeing an Arab with a severe mustache, fishing nearby, observing the whole event. To this day I still feel he might have been an Egyptian officer, possibly a spy, taking in the whole affair, which took place just prior to the Yom Kippur War of 1973. During my tenure, I purchased about 30 acrylic paintings made by students and teachers. I had them framed in Israel and later donated them to the Saugerties Historical Society in New York. My assignment ended in 1974 and I returned to the United States in 1975. Dr. David Oden came to the United States in 1954 from Israel to study International Relations. He received a PhD from the University of Pennsylvania in 1970. He taught at colleges and universities in the U.S. and Israel. Currently, he is retired and living in New York, and Venice, Florida.
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April 2015
ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD
BRIEFS ISRAEL INDEPENDENCE DAY TORCHLIGHTERS ANNOUNCED
Seven men and seven women were approved by the Ministerial Committee for Symbols and Ceremonies to light beacons at the April 22 ceremony that opens Israel’s Independence Day festivities, all chosen for the breakthroughs they’ve made in their various fields. They include Danny Gold, developer of the Iron Dome anti-missile defense system; Sima Shein, who served as head of the Mossad’s research desk, the highest intelligence position ever held by a woman; and Pvt. Dan Korkowsky, a member of the IDF’s Special Intelligence Unit 9900, composed of soldiers who are on the autism spectrum. Korkowsky has rare intelligence-gathering abilities and his success led to the expansion of the unit. (Ha’aretz)
ISRAELI COMPANY SAVING AUSTRALIAN WATER
Israeli water technology company TaKaDu has picked up a slew of Australian contracts after it saved Yarra Valley Water thousands of megaliters of water and millions of dollars by installing software that identifies and tracks leaks in real time. Yarra Valley Water managing director Patrick McCafferty said, “In the last three years we’ve saved about 2,700 megaliters of water...which has
worked out to be about $5,000 a day in water savings.” Sydney Water, Unitywater on the Sunshine Coast, and Queensland Urban Utilities in Brisbane have also started using it. (Yolanda Redrup, Australian Financial Review)
ISRAELI ECONOMY REBOUNDS AFTER GAZA WAR
Israel’s economy rebounded dramatically in the fourth quarter of 2014, growing by an annualized 7.2% after last summer’s Gaza war helped slow growth in the third quarter to 0.6%, according to the Central Bureau of Statistics. (Niv Elis, Jerusalem Post)
ISRAELI PER CAPITA GNP LEAPS IN PAST DECADE
Few are aware of the leap Israel made in its gross national product (GNP) per capita in the past decade. While the GNP was $15,600 in 2003, it jumped to $40,620 per capita by December 2014, while the overall product jumped from $104 billion to $300 billion during that period. Ahead of Israel are Britain ($44,330), France ($43,500) and Germany ($47,350), while behind it are Italy, Spain and Greece. Japan’s GNP stands at $39,140. This leap completely disconnects Israel from such countries in the region as Egypt ($3,700), Jordan ($4,870) and Iran ($6,070). (Guy Bechor, Ynet News)
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ISRAEL, INDIA SET UP JOINT VENTURE TO PRODUCE DEFENSE SYSTEMS
Israeli government-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. and the Indian Kalyani Group recently announced an agreement to establish a joint venture to produce missile systems, remotely-controlled weapons positions, and advanced systems for the protection of tanks and APCs. The agreement was signed during the Aero India weapons exhibition in Bangalore, in which 15 Israeli defense companies took part. “We have always wanted to contribute to the modernization of the Indian armed forces,” said Rafael chairman Brig.-Gen. (res.) Yitzhak Gat, referring to the agreement. (Yuval Azulai, Globes)
NAVY INSTALLS ADVANCED UNDERWATER AQUASHIELD DETECTION SYSTEM
The Israeli Navy is currently installing the AquaShield Diver Detection Sonar system along Israel’s northern sea border, and has already installed it along the sea border with Gaza. The system makes it possible for the IDF to identify individual divers underwater from a significant distance from the coast. AquaShield can also provide protection for vital infrastructure such as gas rigs. (Lilach Shoval, Israel Hayom)
ISRAELI SEAWATER DESALINATION PLANT SETS WORLD RECORD FOR WATER PRODUCTION
IDE Technologies’ seawater desalination plant in Ashkelon, Israel, the largest and most advanced in the world, has produced 1 billion cubic meters of high-quality tap water since 2005 and has a capacity of up to 330,000 cubic meters per day. The plant has also achieved one of the world’s lowest prices for desalinated water. (WaterWorld)
MOSES IN THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Near the end of his address to Congress, Prime Minister Netanyahu pointed to the image of Moses overlooking the lawmakers in the House of Representatives chamber. The portrait, designed by artist Jean de Marco, is one of 23 marble reliefs that depict historical figures noted for establishing the principles that underlie American law, according to the Architect of the Capitol. On either side of Moses are 11 profiles that face left and eleven which face right, so that all look toward Moses in the center. (Anav Silverman, Tazpit-Ynet News)
ISRAEL, IRAN LOCKED IN ESCALATING CYBER WAR
Israel has made “dramatic” advancements in its offensive cyber capabilities over the past 5-7 years, said Tom Kellermann, chief cybersecurity officer at the security research firm Trend Micro. The Israeli military collects information on the layout of Iran’s nuclear program, works to dismantle Iran’s Internet restrictions, and tries to enable the flow of information to dissenters in the country, Kellermann said. Israel has also infiltrated Iran’s infrastructure with dormant “disruptive capabilities” that could be activated at any time. (Cory Bennett, The Hill)
TOP ISRAELI INNOVATIVE COMPANIES
An estimated eight million times a year, errors in U.S. drug prescriptions can have life-threatening consequences. MedAware’s Prescription Analysis and Alert System analyzes the prescription a healthcare provider enters, compares it to the patient’s records and to other patients with the same condition, analyzes the provider’s prescribing patterns, and approves the prescription within seconds or flags it. Billguard identifies breaches of credit-card security, detecting patterns that could mean that a person’s creditcard number was stolen. Salient Eye lets you deploy unused smartphones that have built-in cameras as a do-it-yourself home-security system. Its motion-sensor app for Android allows users to monitor the area or room where the phone unobtrusively rests. The app emits an alarm and sends photographs, texts or email alerts of intruders. (Fast Company)
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In the wake of the 2014 Gaza war, the number of U.S. campuses with antiIsrael activity jumped by 51.4%, the Israel on Campus Coalition notes in its Fall 2014 Campus Activity Report. Yet ICC data reveals an even larger surge in pro-Israel activism on campuses. Pro-Israel students and organizations are mobilizing to prevent Israel’s detractors from taking campuses hostage. During the last school year, the pro-Israel movement succeeded in defeating 14 out of 18 divestment resolutions. Even in instances where anti-Israel resolutions have passed, campus communities have demonstrated broad support for Israel. During the fall 2014 semester, ICC tracked 759 anti-Israel events at colleges and universities nationwide and 1,531 pro-Israel events. The number of pro-Israel student groups also rose from 362 in 2012 to 484 in 2014. (Israel on Campus Coalition)
continued on next page
April 2015
ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD
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continued from previous page
31 COUNTRIES FACE MORE TERRORISM THAN ISRAEL
17,958 people were killed in terrorist attacks last year, 61% more than the previous year. 31 countries rank higher than Israel (ranked 32) in the 2014 Global Terrorism Index, including the UK (27) and the U.S. (30). The GTI, published by the Institute for Economics and Peace, measures the direct and indirect impact of terrorism in terms of lives lost, injuries, property damage and the psychological after-effects. (Institute for Economics and Peace)
ISRAEL ENCOURAGES ISRAELI ARAB HI-TECH
Today there are 2,000 Arab engineers in Israel’s high-tech industry, up from just 350 in 2008. The strongest leap is in Nazareth where 600 Arab software developers lead the sector, up from just 40 in 2008. Israel’s Authority for the Economic Development of the Arab, Druze and Circassian Sectors receives $45 million to ignite the Arab tech sector. Aiman Saif, who heads the group, said, “In the last month, we’ve approved seed funding for 11 Arab-led start-ups in Nazareth.” (Kate Shuttleworth, USA Today)
THE PALESTINIAN VICTIMS OF THE WEST’S ISRAEL OBSESSION
The Jerusalem Post reported recently that a leading Palestinian hospital is at risk of closure because of a $30 million debt. A major reason for this debt is that for years, the Palestinian Authority has failed to pay Mokassed Hospital for many of the patients it treats, though the PA has ample funds to pay generous salaries to thousands of terrorists sitting in Israeli jails. It’s a matter of priorities. Another news report notes that thousands of Palestinians who bought homes in the new Palestinian city of Rawabi can’t move in because the city isn’t connected to the water system. Why? Because all West Bank water projects need approval by the IsraeliPalestinian Joint Water Committee, which the PA has refused to convene for the last five years. Evidently, it would rather deprive its own people of better housing than agree to meet with Israeli officials. Almost 40% of the PA’s budget consists of foreign aid, with the vast majority coming from Western countries. The West is therefore uniquely placed to pressure the PA to alter its priorities, but it has refused to do so. (Evelyn Gordon, Commentary)
BOYCOTT ISRAEL MOVEMENT STUNTS THE PALESTINIAN ECONOMY
A push to “boycott, divest and sanction” (BDS) Israeli companies has limited impact on the credit profile of Israel, yet it directly harms its intended beneficiaries, the Palestinians. “The impact of BDS is more psychological than real so far and has had no discernible impact on Israeli trade or the broader economy,” said Kristin Lindow, senior vice president at Moody’s and its lead analyst for Israel. “The sanctions do run the risk of hurting the Palestinian economy...as seen in the case of SodaStream.” Israel (population 8.3 million) has a GDP of $291 billion, the Palestinian territories (population 4.1 million) $11.3 billion. Such asymmetry shows the Palestinians needs Israel, economically speaking. Yet the BDS crowd would impair economic ties, despite evidence that trade between peoples lessens the outbreak of war. Israel employs 110,000 Palestinians and has built 16 industrial parks in e
the West Bank and east Jerusalem hosting 1,000 facilities where Jews and Arabs work shoulder-to-shoulder. (Carrie Sheffield, Forbes)
JORDAN, ISRAEL SIGN DEAL TO HELP SAVE DEAD SEA Israeli and Jordanian government officials on Thursday, February 26, signed a bilateral agreement to jointly funnel Red Sea water to the shrinking Dead Sea. In the $800 million project, Jordan and Israel will share the water produced by a future desalination plant in Aqaba, while a pipeline will carry saltwater from the plant to the Dead Sea. In return for the desalinated water, Israel will double its supply of water to
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Jordan from the Sea of Galilee. (Sharon Udasin, Jerusalem Post)
SAVING THE DEAD SEA
Jordan’s signing of an agreement with Israel for the implementation of the first stage of the project to transfer Red Sea water to the Dead Sea follows an agreement signed by Jordan, Israel and the PA in Washington in 2013 that aimed to secure the three sides with urgently needed water. The scheme also entails replenishing the shrinking Dead Sea with new sources of water to offset
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April 2015
FOCUS ON YOUTH
“Never again!” vs. “It can happen.” Education Corner By Sue Huntting
A
few words can tell a lot about who we are. A recent popular exercise called the Six Word Memoir® challenges you to tell the story of your life in six words. In the recent movie The Judge, the character played by Robert Downey Jr. asks potential jurors in his father’s trial about the bumper stickers on their cars as a way of determining their suitability to sit on the jury. I recently asked the teachers in our school to share their personal mottos in the classroom, i.e., how they would articulate their principles, values and ideals that inform their relationship building and decision making. Their concise statements reflected their individual values as well as their expectations of students.
Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) is on Thursday, April 16. Just a few short months since we observed the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, we are more than ever aware of the time that has passed since the Holocaust decimated a historic and rich European Jewish people and culture. How do we sum up the Holocaust’s lesson for future generations? As a child of the ’60s, I grew up hearing “Never again!,” a battle cry loaded with meaning. “Never again!” calls for us to be vigilant. We must organize and stand up to the ugliness of anti-Semitism wherever it appears. We must promise ourselves to do everything in our power to protect the Jewish people anywhere, anytime. And yet, over the years, the cry of “Never again!” has begun to ring hollow. Fortunately, world-wide Jewry has not suffered the same since the Holocaust, but what about the peoples of other countries – Kosovo, Rwanda, Darfur, Iraq and, most recently, Syria? Genocide still occurs, even if we are
not its latest targets. Perhaps it is time to reconsider the Holocaust’s lesson. Instead of relying on a warning that flies in the face of what we all have seen play out around the world since 1945, what should be the takeaway for children today for whom the events of 80 years ago will be relegated to history once the survivor generation has passed on? What words can aptly capture what we want them to think and feel about the attempted genocide of an entire people that occurred during their grandparents’ and great grandparents’ lives? Reporting in January on the 70th anniversary commemorations, I heard a radio moderator ask a roundtable of journalists to sum up what they thought was the underlying message from those they had met and the speeches and ceremonies they had witnessed. One reporter’s response has stuck with me. “It can happen,” he said. What happened to Jews in Germany and throughout Europe can happen to any minority, anywhere, anytime. What happened in the past can happen again.
The past is not just the past; the past could be the present or the future. Instead of an ethno-centric rallying cry that brings to mind fists raised in the air and a hyper-vigilance that pushes us to the brink of paranoia, perhaps we would do better to convey a message that prompts reflection, analysis and an honest understanding of human nature, group think, fear and trauma. “It can happen” begs us to ask how? How does a holocaust happen? How did the Holocaust happen? How is it that human beings can hatch, cultivate and implement a plan to exterminate an entire community? “Never again!” keeps us fixated on what happened. “It can happen” challenges us to think beyond the uniqueness of the Holocaust to its implications for the future of humankind. That is a message worthy of consideration today and in the future. Sue Huntting is the Religious School Director at Temple Sinai
SRQUSY update: Yom Universal and SRQUSY Scavenger Hunt By Gabriella Hazan
I
t was rather incredible to realize that it seemed like most of the teenage kids at Universal Studios on Sunday, February 15 were Jewish. Twentytwo kids representing SRQUSY and Temple Beth Sholom joined the masses of United Synagogue Youth from the HaNegev region and descended on Universal. Everywhere you looked there were Jewish kids (many in their USY T-shirts), having fun, being Jewish. Universal Studios was kind enough to create a backstage studio lot for us
where they served us our kosher lunch. It was great to meet up with our friends from the whole region. SRQUSY held a Scavenger Hunt on St. Armands Circle on Sunday, February 22. We formed four groups and answered questions, took videos of us dancing in front of Cha Cha Coconuts, and took ”selfies” with the fudge guy at Kilwins. At the end of the day, we all enjoyed ice cream at Ben & Jerry’s. Our next events will be fantastic, and we look forward to more people
joining us as we grow. Members and nonmembers are welcome to join us at TBS on Sunday, March 29 for the annual sweet Chocolate Seder for grades 3-12. The Mercaz Sub-Regional convention, March 27-29, will be in Tampa and is open for registration. The
USY Regionals are coming up soon, April 17-19. We are also planning a local “Party Bus” event, USY Banquet Dinner, and other events. For more information, please email etedesco@ templebethsholomfl.org.
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USY youth group students invade St. Armands for a scavenger hunt: (top) Jessica Zelitt, Michelle Silva, Samantha Hanan, Eli Koplin, Angel Sedano, (bottom) Allison Davis, Alex Hanan, Sydney Hanan, Camryn Cohen, Hadley Schwartz, Gabriella Hazan, Elena Goodman
A resume, cover letter and samples of your work by Wednesday, April 1, 2015 to Chris Alexander at calexander@jfedsrq.org or mail to: THE JEWISH FEDERATION The Klingenstein Jewish Center 580 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232
Youths from Temple Beth Sholom met up with other youth groups during “Yom Universal” in Orlando
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Pretend Purim meal in the dramatic play center at Chabad of Sarasota’s Kaplan Preschool
April 2015
FOCUS ON YOUTH
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Temple Emanu-El Early Learning Center students celebrate “Love, Heart and Friendship Day”
T
he young students of Temple Emanu-El Early Learning Center celebrated the gifts of kindness and friendship at the preschool’s annual “Love, Heart and Friendship Day” on Friday, February 13. Many children wore clothes decorated with hearts in honor of the day, and students and teachers gathered for a special “Love, Heart and Friendship Day” celebration in conjunction with the preschool’s weekly Shabbat service.
Following spirited Shabbat songs and blessings, Rabbi Brenner Glickman led the children in songs and movement activities about friendship. Students put their arms around one another and swayed happily while singing “Hinay Ma Tov,” meaning “How good it is for people to come together as brothers and sisters!” The children also joined hands and danced around the building to sing “Make New Friends But Keep the Old,” then en-
Rabbi Brenner Glickman joined Temple Emanu-El Early Learning Center preschoolers Emma Witherspoon and Tai Gauthier for “Love, Heart and Friendship Day”
joyed an ice-cream social celebrating the sweetness of friendship. “This was a wonderful morning,” enthused Temple Emanu-El Early Learning Center Director Elaine Sharrock. “Of course Valentine’s Day is not a Jewish holiday, but our students are aware of Valentine’s Day and see valentine decorations in stores and around the community. ‘Love, Heart and Friendship Day’ is the perfect way to take this time of year to remind our
Temple Emanu-El Early Learning Center preschoolers Layla Fehr and Amory Klosterman shared a hug
students that kindness, helping friends, and being nice to others are important Jewish values.” Temple Emanu-El Early Learning Center is a nationally-accredited, four-stars-plus preschool offering outstanding Jewish and secular education for children ages 18 months through 5 years. Enrollment is open for summer camp and the 2015-16 year. For more information, call 941.377.8074.
Temple Emanu-El Early Learning Center preschooler Caedance Day showed off her cup of ice cream
TBSS Grandparents Club celebrates Dr. Seuss’s birthday
t
@
T
he Temple Beth Sholom Schools Grandparents Club, under the capable leadership of Sue Rosin and Peggy Simon, sponsored an in-school celebration of Read Across America Day, commemorating Dr. Seuss’s birthday on Monday, March 2. Lots of red and white striped top hats were spotted in the Justin Lee Wiesner Early Childhood Learning Center as students enjoyed food and fun based on the classic story of The Cat in the Hat.
The kindergarten through second grade classes created a miniature Seussville and dined on eggs with kale – hence, Green Eggs (no ham)! Older students participated by creating political cartoons with Seuss characters and by writing original story rhymes, Dr. Seuss style.
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YOM HA’ATZMAUT
Israel Independence Day
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April 2015
FOCUS ON YOUTH
CTeen of Venice at the CTeen International Shabbaton
T
his year, at the 7th Annual CTeen International Shabbaton, the lights of Times Square were made brighter and stronger by the presence of 1,500 Jewish teens from across the globe, who gathered together that weekend to celebrate their heritage. The star-studded weekend culmi-
nated in a powerful Havdalah ceremony in Times Square, featuring Israeli Superstar, Gad Elbaz. Jumbo screens throughout the square broadcast the ceremony for all to see. The screens also displayed photos of CTeen’s delegations in over 181 cities, all of whom were present at this life-changing
weekend. We would like to thank The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee for the grant, enabling our chapter to attend the Shabbaton. To learn more about our local CTeen chapter, contact Rivka at 941.493.2770 or rivka@ chabadofvenice.com.
Rabbi Sholom Schmerling with CTeen of Venice Chapter members and Golda Meir at the wax museum
CTeen of Venice in Times Square
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“15 Seconds” By Haley Dennis
W
hen I was at URJ Kutz Camp last summer, the Gaza war broke out. My counselors were called to defend the land of Israel. The previous summer, I went with NFTY to Israel and visited a kibbutz right at the border of Israel and Gaza. We learned about how people living there took precautions to stay safe and how they had to take shelter when rockets were shot into Israel. These two URJ experiences inspired the piece I choreographed, “15 Seconds.” The piece begins with pairs of dancers performing everyday tasks. Sirens interrupt each task, causing one dancer in each pair to flee the stage with one shoe on, half a shirt buttoned, and hair a mess. The middle of the piece was accompanied by an instrumental song while dancers ran and walked across the stage. The choreography was intended to convey emotions, including fear, separation, intimacy. The end of the piece starts with a
duet, with one girl representing Israel and one representing Gaza. It is powerful to have these two physical bodies stand for these opposing geographical places. These “enemies” dance while a recording of a live news report of a rocket attack plays in the background. The dancers are in parallel lines, one group representing Gaza and one representing Israel. The piece ends with a “face off,” although the winner is left unresolved since this real-life conflict continues. There hasn’t yet been an official “end.” In addition to being dedicated to developing herself as a dancer, Haley Dennis has been active at Temple Sinai and in NFTY for many years. She is a madricha at Temple Sinai’s Religious School and outgoing RCVP for NFTY-STR.
“15 Seconds”
Haley Dennis
What’s new for 2015/2016 at the Temple Beth Sholom Schools:
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Or give it to a friend to read and ask them to recycle it. You can also read The Jewish News online at www.jfedsrq.org.
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F O R M O R E I N F O CO N TAC T: ANDREA EIFFERT 941.552.6308 O R A E I F F E RT @ J F E D S R Q.O R G
Send-A-Kid-to-Israel Program
TheJewishFederation.org The SKIP program is funded in large part by the Betty and Herb Schiff Send-a-Kid-to-Israel Fund.
MASA ISRAEL TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIP The Federation will offer scholarships to applicants who have been accepted to a MASA program! Scholarships are first come, first serve. (Up to $2,000 to cover travel to and from Israel only.) Visit www.TheJewishFederation.org.
Klingenstein Jewish Center, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 Andrea Eiffert, Director of S.T.E.P. and Family Programs 941.552.6308 • aeiffert@jfedsrq.org
April 2015
LIFE CYCLE ANNIVERSARIES
45th David & Itzel Lieberman Temple Sinai 20th Donald Malawsky & Tess Koncick Temple Emanu-El 15th Dr. Steven & Lauren Fineman Temple Emanu-El
15th Michelle & Brad Pearson Temple Emanu-El 15th Josh & Michele Reich Temple Emanu-El
Sarasota-Manatee Chevra Kadisha
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Mr. Alvin G. Mardon, of Sarasota, Feb. 12 Marilyn Newman, of Sarasota, formerly of Newton, MA, Feb. 10 Dr. Melvin S. Robinson, 93, of Parrish, formerly of St. Petersburg, FL, Dec. 5 Martin Rosen, 76, of Venice, Jan. 23 Susan Schwaid, 86, of Sarasota, Feb. 6
admin 941.224.0778 men 941.377.4647 941.484.2790 women 941.921.4740 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237
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Please submit your life cycle events (births, B’nai Mitzvah, anniversaries) to jewishnews18 @gmail.com. Photos are appreciated; email as JPGs at 300dpi.
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SHA LOM BA BY The PJ Library program supports families in their Jewish journey by sending Jewishrelated books and music on a monthly basis to children for free.
Families who are expecting or have recently celebrated the arrival of a baby can receive a Complimentary Gift Basket, which includes special baby items and a helpful resource guide for our Jewish community.
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Published by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee www.jfedsrq.org
April 2015 - Nisan/Iyar 5775
Volume 45, Number 4
Jewish Happenings WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1
THURSDAY, APRIL 2
“The Musical Liturgy of the Worship Service”
Chug Ivri (Hebrew Circle)
Through a series of lectures, discussions and musical examples, the prayers that are already a part of our Friday night service will be given a new meaning through the lens of history, musical analysis and personal connection. This free course takes place on Wednesdays, April 1, 8, 15 and 29 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call the temple office at 941.924.1802.
The Chug Ivri is a study group of individuals who wish to improve their knowledge of Hebrew, both spoken and reading. It is conducted at an advanced intermediate level and consists of reading Hebrew literature and an Israeli newspaper (for experienced students of Hebrew) and Hebrew conversation. There is no teacher. The members’ knowledge and the use of dictionaries provide the expertise. Our goal is to use Hebrew as much as possible during the meeting. There is no cost. Anyone who has the necessary Hebrew competence and wishes to expand his/her Hebrew knowledge is welcome to join the group, which meets on Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. For more information, call Claire Fox at 941.921.3765.
Temple Emanu-El “Lunch with the Rabbi” Are you looking for a great lunch date? Join Rabbi Brenner Glickman and nice, friendly, interesting companions for lunch, socializing and discussion of current events and subjects of Jewish interest. All are invited to this popular, stimulating and enjoyable program. Attendees are asked to bring a brown-bag lunch and are also welcome to bring a newspaper article for discussion. Homemade dessert and terrific company are provided! This free event begins at noon at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For more information, call the temple office at 941.371.2788.
ConneCt with your Jewish Community facebook.com/jfedsrq ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE WORLD CLASS THEATRE • MADE IN SARASOTA
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Sarasota Jewish Chorale rehearsals The Sarasota Jewish Chorale will have rehearsals in April on the following Thursday evenings: April 2, 9 and 16. The SJC will recess after its last performance on Friday, April 17. Rehearsals will resume in the fall to prepare for programs for the 2015-16 season. They are held from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Hecht School on the Federation Campus, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, courtesy of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. For more information, call Susan Skovronek, SJC manager, at 941.344.8011, visit www.sarasotajewishchorale.org or check us out on Facebook. For bookings, please call Phyllis Lipshutz at 941.924.6717.
Passover begins at sundown on Friday, April 3. Many of the area’s temples will hold first- and second-night Seders open to the community. Contact the temples for more information.
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By Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright NILO CRUZ Directed By MELISSA KIEVMAN
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APRIL 2- 26
PREVIEWS MARCH 31 & APRIL 1 IN THE HISTORIC ASOLO THEATER
SOTTO VOCE | By NILO CRUZ In this exquisite new play, Pulitizer Prize winning playwright Nilo Cruz examines the resiliency of love and the power of memories. German-born novelist Bemadette Kahn lost the love of her life during WWII when he fled Nazi Germany on the S.S. St. Louis, a ship carrying 937 Jewish refugees. Denied entry by Cuba and the U.S., the ship was forced to return to Europe where concentration camps awaited many of its passengers. Bemadette’s past resurfaces when a young Jewish-Cuban writer contacts her to research the ship’s tragic voyage, which also claimed the life of his great aunt. As their relationship deepens, the play intertwines imagination and reality to illuminate a beautiful story of lost love, regret, reconciliation and rebirth.
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2B
April 2015
TUESDAY, APRIL 7
KEEP CALM
“A Cup of Joe and the Five Books of Moe” Everyone is invited to join Rabbi Michael Werbow’s popular Tuesday morning discussion group. There is no cost. New participants are always welcome. The group meets from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. For more information, please contact the temple office at 941.955.8121.
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500 suits for lunch. One pretty girl in a white dress. Elvis on the dance floor. An obnoxiously large bar mitzvah.
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JEWISH HAPPENINGS
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Bridge... Anyone?
The Bridge Group meets Thursday afternoons from 1:00–4:00 pm on the Federation Campus (582 McIntosh Road). Open to intermediate and advanced bridge players. For more information, call Bob Satnick at 941.538.3739
Thursdays / 12pm to 4ish Jerusalem Room, Federation Campus (582 McIntosh Road) $5 pie.
Seasoned
Friendly but serious game!
Contact Marilyn Oslander 941.951.2029 marasota@yahoo.com
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History of Jewish migration The GulfsidePalm ORT chapter presents Erwin Joos, curator and director of the Eugeen Van Mieghem Museum in Antwerp, Belgium, at 1:30 p.m. on the Federation Campus, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Joos will speak about the history of Jewish migration, the Antwerp community and the Red Star Line. His PowerPoint presentation will feature artwork by Eugeen Van Mieghem. Refreshments will be served. For more information and to RSVP, contact Kim Sheintal at 941.921.1433.
Ashkenazic vs. Sephardic: Prayer Services & Holidays The rich Sephardic culture is woven into Israeli life across the board, but is virtually unfamiliar to many American Jews. Join the Al Katz Center for an enlightening journey through centuries of time and multiple continents to learn about and experience the depth and breadth of Sephardic and Ashkenazic traditions. Despite having been scattered to the far corners of the globe, Sephardic and Ashkenazic Jews have preserved their religious heritage, through similar and dissimilar prayer services and holiday observances. Join us at 2:00 p.m. at 5910 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $7 per adult; $3 per student; healthy kosher refreshments and discussion materials included. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.
Reel fun Blood Brother, a documentary film about one man’s decision to move to India and restart his life among the dispossessed, will be screened at 7:00 p.m. at the Jewish Congregation of Venice, 600 N. Auburn Rd. Despite formidable challenges, his playful spirit and determination are invaluable. A brief discussion follows the movie. Home-baked desserts and coffee served. Tickets at the door: $3 for JCV members, $5 for guests. For more information, call the JCV office at 941.484.2022.
THURSDAY, APRIL 9 Jewish Victories in History: Warsaw Ghetto Uprising On the eve of Passover in 1943, German forces entered the Warsaw Ghetto intent upon emptying it in three days for deportation of all of the remaining Jews to the death camps. Instead, the Nazis were met with volleys of Molotov cocktails, grenades and petrol bombs launched by starving Jewish resistance fighters. Hopelessly outgunned, courageous Jews fought the Nazi murder machine for weeks in one of the most stunning examples of Jewish heroism in the Holocaust. Join us at 2:00 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5910 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $7 per adult; $3 per student; healthy kosher foods and discussion materials included. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.
Temple Beth El Bradenton Interfaith Seder Temple Beth El Bradenton, along with Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, Crosspointe Fellowship and Roser Memorial Community Church, will participate in an Interfaith Passover Seder. The Seder will consist of doing all the rituals of the Seder and the reading of the Passover Haggadah. The Haggadah used is specifically written for interfaith observance. People of all faiths are welcome to join us at 6:00 p.m. at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. RSVP required as space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, call the Temple Beth El office at 941.755.4900, Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to noon.
SATURDAY, APRIL 11 CHJ presents Suzanne Vromen The Congregation for Humanistic Judaism will host Suzanne Vromen after its 10:30 a.m. Yom HaShoah service, which includes the voices of the Humanaires. Suzanne will speak on “Debunking the Myth of Jewish Passivity During the Holocaust.” Suzanne is Professor Emerita of Sociology at Bard College, where she co-founded the Women’s Studies program and directed it for eight years. Her articles and reviews have appeared in many journals, including the Yivo Annual of Jewish Social Science and the History of European Ideas. CHJ is located at Unity, 3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota. For more information, call 941.929.7771 or visit www.chj-sarasota.org.
Kabalistic Moshiach Seudah Celebrate the conclusion of Passover at the Chabad House with a Kabalistic festive gathering. Attendees will have the opportunity to drink the four cups of wine and partake of the matzah customarily eaten at this time. A light buffet will be served. This free event begins at 6:00 p.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. RSVP to Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030.
Read the current and previous editions of The Jewish News online at www.jfedsrq.org.
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
April 2015
3B
SUNDAY, APRIL 12 Dr. Steven Derfler presentation Dr. Derfler, archaeologist and historian, will present “European AntiSemitism in the 19th Century and the Rise of Political Zionism.” He will discuss how the unique Jewish experience has led to an “otherness” within majority societies. The world began to change its views of Judaism and Jews in a negative way, leading to a Jewish political movement designed to create a land where Jews could feel truly safe. Sponsored by the Jewish Congregation of Venice Men’s Club, the presentation will begin at 9:30 a.m. at 600 N. Auburn Rd., Venice. Both men and women are welcome to the program, which includes a breakfast. A donation of $5 at the door is requested to cover the cost of food. For more information, call the JCV office at 941.484.2022.
Temple Emanu-El Brotherhood Breakfast Join Temple Emanu-El Brotherhood for the best breakfast deal in town! A deluxe bagel breakfast with all the trimmings, plus friendly conversation with nice, welcoming, interesting people will be followed by a speaker and lively presentation. All are welcome at 9:30 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Cost: $10. For more information, please contact Don Malawsky at dmalawsky@msn.com.
“Jewish Artists Explore” features Joan Davidson Sponsored by
The final segment of the “Jewish Artists Explore” series sponsored by The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee and the Association of Professional Jewish Artists takes place from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. on the Federation Campus (580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota) with a live interview of fine arts painter Joan Davidson, interviewed by Dr. Barry Bub, author and photographer. Joan Davidson will also offer an integrative art activity with Diana Daffner on flutes. Julie Schechter will offer a dance interpretation and group movement in relation to brief mystical text study on “The Exodus Process” facilitated by Rabbi Goldie Milgram. This event is $5 for APJA members, and $10 for nonmembers (payable at the door). Refreshments will be served. For more information, contact Rabbi Milgram at rebgoldie@gmail.com.
SUNDAY, APRIL 12 • 7 PM First United Methodist Church, Sarasota Opulent beauty and romantic touches abound in the creative hands of 19th Century opera genius Puccini and 21st Century wunderkind Ola Gjeilo—both masters of vocal composition. Messa di Gloria and Sunrise Mass are inspiring compositions which lift the human spirit to new heights. TICKETS $35 (students $15) Concert information and ticket purchase: www.gloriamusicae.org Tickets also available through the VanWezel Box Office 941.953.3368
MONDAY, APRIL 13 JFSM Education Scholarship application deadline Visit www.jfedsrq.org/help/educationscholarship for more information or to apply. Primary consideration for scholarship recipients is financial need, Sponsored by but community involvement and Jewish activities are important, as well. No late or incomplete applications accepted. For more information, contact Andrea Eiffert at 941.552.6308 or aeiffert@jfedsrq.org.
Artists & Audiences: “In the Beginning” According to myth and legend, Lilith was the first woman, created before Eve, and Adam’s absolute equal. Adam and Lilith were made from the same earth, so Lilith declared them equal, which did not please Adam. The lecture “In the Beginning,” directed by Carole Kleinberg, begins at 11:00 a.m., and will be followed by lunch. Cost for lecture and lunch: $30 for Temple Sinai members; $35 for nonmembers. The event takes place at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call the temple office at 941.924.1802.
TUESDAY, APRIL 14 Mitzvah Knitting Group at Temple Emanu-El Are you a knitter or crocheter interested in using your talent to brighten the lives of others while making new friends? If so, please come to the Mitzvah Knitting Group sponsored by Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood. We gather monthly to craft and socialize, and our beautiful handiwork has been donated to local new parents as well as needy families in SarasotaManatee and in Israel. Bring your needles or crochet hook and a favorite pattern – we’ll supply the yarn and great company! This free event begins at 10:00 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For more information, contact Susan Bernstein at susanhope22@comcast.net.
Caffeine for the Soul
941.387.6046 • www.gloriamusicae.org
Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva SPRING SEMESTER 2015
SECTS IN THE SYNAGOGUE
Tuesdays, Starting April 7 • 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM As Judaism has evolved, sects have come into existence representing the diversity in the liturgy, customs and practices inherited from previous generations. The differences are remarkable in that Yiddishkeit has flourished for over 3500 years by adapting to the new surroundings and conditions of where Jewish people resided. By studying the various sects of American Jewry, we can all gain a better understanding of our differences. Active representatives from each sect will be invited to join in the classroom discussion.
TANACH TREATS AND BIBLE SPECIALS
Mondays, Starting April 13 • 4:15 PM – 5:15 PM The Hebrew Bible is filled with unusual stories and events that captured the imagination of our people from the day of Revelation at Sinai down through the ages. They form our Written Law. On the other hand, the Talmud—the Oral Law— added insight and understanding of Scriptures as did the great commentators such as Rashi and a whole host of others. We’ll share the not well-known lessons and episodes about biblical characters, their challenges and successes from the perspective of the Jewish values learned that we transmit to our children and contribute to the world at large.
ISRAEL UPDATE AND ANTI-SEMITISM 2015
Join the most popular Jewish women’s book club in town at Caffeine for the Soul. Get your weekly social and spiritual boost during a roundtable discussion led by Chaya Rivka Schmerling. Delve into the book for this year, Simple Words by Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz. This group meets weekly. No cost. Join us at 10:00 a.m. at Chabad of Venice, 2169 S. Tamiami Trail. For more information, contact Chaya Rivka Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rivka@chabadofvenice.com.
Fridays, Starting April 17 • 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM As an update to our fall 2014 seminar, this course will review the swift–moving pertinent events of the last six months. Actual news coverage as well as opinion will be presented for classroom discussion. We live in a day and age of virulent anti-Israel sentiment, boycotts and rampant anti-Semitism. While we feel comfortable here in America, Jews in Europe and in Israel deal with constant threats to life, limb, and freedom. Could it happen here? Do we have the luxury of being passive and/or complacent? Let’s schmooze! Je suis Juif!
Tanya for Women
All courses are eight weeks; fee $50
Start your week with a spiritual boost! Discuss, explore and journey through the world of mystical teaching and learn how to apply these profound teachings to your daily life. This ongoing class will probe the esoteric through a unique program of English text-based study. This group meets weekly. No cost. Join us at 11:15 a.m. at Chabad of Venice, 2169 S. Tamiami Trail. For more information, contact Chaya Rivka Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rivka@chabadofvenice.com.
For a continuously updated calendar, visit www.TheJewishFederation.org
Classes are held on the Campus of the Jewish Federation, 580 McIntosh Rd. in Sarasota. To register or seek more information, please contact Marden Paru, Dean and Rosh Yeshiva; at 941.379.5655 or marden.paru@gmail.com. Please make checks payable to the Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva and mail to Marden Paru, 2729 Goodwood Court, Sarasota, FL 34235. NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS: The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and other school-administered programs. The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva is a 501(c)3 non-profit agency. It is funded, in part, by a grant from The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.
4B
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
April 2015
S A R A S OTA
Fi l m Fe st i va l
the
Hearts
and
Minds OF
INDEPENDENT FILM APRIL 10 TH - 19 TH 2015
jewish film showc ase 24 DAYS
FELIX AND MEIRA
Director - Alexandre Arcady France
Director - Maxim Giroux Canada
The shocking true story of a hate crime in France where a young Jewish man is kidnapped and tortured by the “Gang of Barbarians.” An unusual romance blossoms between two lost souls who inhabit the same neighborhood but vastly different worlds.
MATZO AND THE AMERICAN DREAM
DOUGH
Director - John Goldschmidt UK / Hungar y
Director - Michael Levine USA
An old Jewish baker struggles to keep his business afloat until his young Muslim apprentice accidentally drops cannabis in the dough and sends sales sky high. In New York City’s Lower East Side sits the Streit’s, the last family owned matzo factory in America. This is a story of tradition, of resilience, of resistance, and of the perseverance of the Jewish people.
TO LIFE
TOUCHDOWN ISRAEL
Director - Jean-Jacques Zilber mann France
Director - Paul Hirschberger USA / France American football has set down real roots in the Holy Land bringing to light Israel’s complex and multifaceted society. Three female Auschwitz camp survivors have a reunion 15 years later at the French beach resort town of Berck-sur-Mer. Inspired by a true story.
BOX OFFICE OPENS: MEMBERS MARCH 26TH GENERAL PUBLIC MARCH 27TH
941 366 6200
#MySFF
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
April 2015
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15
FRIDAY, APRIL 17
5B
Holocaust Remembrance Day
Rhythm and Jews Musical Shabbat Service
“On this one day we remember those who suffered, those who fought, and those who died.” Open to the community, this event begins at 7:00 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota. For information, please call the Temple Sinai office at 941.924.1802.
Join Rabbi Geoff Huntting, Chazzan Cliff Abramson, friends and neighbors for Rhythm & Jews Family Erev Shabbat Service at 6:00 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota. Come and hear the Bruno Family Musicians as they create an uplifting service with a variety of traditional, Israeli, Sephardic and Chasidic melodies. Also, the Potnow/ Rivas baby naming will take place. For more information, call the temple office at 941.924.1802.
Sponsored by
Art in the Afternoon: “Embracing Our Differences” Join the Brandeis National Committee at 11:00 a.m. for a private docent tour of this fascinating waterfront exhibit followed by lunch at Shore Diner on St. Armands Circle. A discussion and Q&A will be held during lunch for those unable to participate in the walking tour. Cost: $35 for the tour and lunch. For more information, contact Rookie Shifrin at 941.907.0985 or rookies@me.com.
THURSDAY, APRIL 16 Schmooze & Pastrami Join us for a weekly (also on April 23) pastrami sandwich lunch with a schmooze on a variety of current hot topics. The lunch begins at noon at Chabad of Venice, 2169 S. Tamiami Trail. Cost: $8. For more information, please contact Rabbi Sholom Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@ chabadofvenice.com.
JFCS Holocaust Survivors’ Havurah Sponsored by
All survivors are invited to attend these monthly gatherings of friendship, camaraderie and support. This month’s topic is Changing Seasons. Enjoy a light nosh and a lively discussion. The group meets from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. at Kobernick House, 1951 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota. This is a multi-agency event sponsored by JFCS of the Suncoast, Inc., Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Community Services, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and the Claims Conference of Germany. To RSVP or for more information, contact Jan Alston at 941.366.2224 x172 or jalston@jfcs-cares.org.
Above and Beyond at Temple Beth Israel New York native Al Schwimmer was an experienced flight engineer for TWA that assisted Air Transport Command during WWII. In 1947, Palestinian Jews asked him to help obtain planes for the expected conflict when Israel declared independence. Despite its surplus of military aircraft, the U.S. government decreed the selling or provision of aircraft to Israel a federal offense. Using his veteran network and incredible ingenuity, Schwimmer cobbled together some 30 surplus planes, mostly transports. By establishing fictitious companies, his pilots and mechanics were always just steps ahead of the FBI. Schwimmer eventually paid a personal price. In 1949 he was convicted of violating the U.S. Neutrality Act. However, he would later move to Israel and establish what would become its largest company, Israel Aerospace Industries, valued at $1 billion when Schwimmer retired in 1988. Above and Beyond, a widely acclaimed documentary about this story, will be shown for the first time on Florida’s West Coast at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Tickets are $20 and include a desert reception. Reservations are a must. Please call the temple office at 941.383.3428.
SUNDAY, APRIL 19 Jewish War Veterans brunch/meeting Jewish War Veterans, Sarasota Post 172, will hold its last monthly brunch/ meeting of the season at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. The lox-and-bagel brunch will begin at 9:45 a.m. and will be followed by a short business meeting at 10:30 a.m. The cost remains $5 per person, and spouses/significant others are always welcome. Our guest speaker will be Heidi Brown, Chief Executive Officer at KobernickAnchin-Benderson. There will also be a special event for all those attending this meeting. Come and find out what that is, and join us as we say farewell to our “snowbird” members who will be heading north for the summer. For more information, please contact Stan Levinson, Commander, Post 172, at stanlevinson172@gmail.com or 941.907.6720.
Jewish Genealogical Society of SWFL meeting Bill Israel, a genealogist with thirty-five years of experience in researching Jewish roots, will present “An Introduction to Jewish Genealogy,” an overview that will not only give novice genealogists a basic foundation to begin their own family research, but will also be an update and refresher for more experienced researchers. Bill is a board member and past president of the Jewish Genealogical Society of Tampa Bay. Join us at 1:00 p.m. at Kobernick House, 1951 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota. Attendance is free and everyone is welcome. For more information, contact Kim Sheintal at 941.921.1433 or klapshein@aol.com, or visit http://jgsswf.org/.
Dinner and a movie with Rabbi Geoff Huntting Temple Sinai invites you to attend the last in a series of four “Dinner and Documentary Film and Discussion” with Rabbi Geoff Huntting. The film to be screened is Exodus – Jewish underground organizations unite in an armed struggle against British Mandate Power. The event begins at 5:00 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota. Cost: $35 for the film and dinner. No walk-ins. For more information and to RSVP, call Janet Tolbert at 941.388.9624.
140 kosher characters: twitter.com/jfedsrq
T H E P E R L M A N M U S I C P R O G R A M /S U N COAST presents the Hear & Now Concert featuring “To say that they are unusual is an understatement. They are extraordinary.” - Itzhak Perlman
Ariel Quartet Sunday, April 19, 2015 • 3 p.m. Sarasota Opera House
Started in Israel and mentored by musical greats including Itzhak Perlman, these distinguished PMP alumni will perform works by Haydn, Bartok, and Ravel
Concert Tickets: $30, $40 Meet The Artists Reception: $40
Call the Box Office at 941-366-8450 Hear & Now Concert Series sponsored by
941-955-4942 PMPSuncoast.org
Gershon Gerchikov and Alexandra Kazovsky, violins Jan Grüning, viola • Amit Even-Tov, cello
6B
JEWISH HAPPENINGS
April 2015 MONDAY, APRIL 20
TUESDAY, APRIL 21
Mah/cards/games day
“Pondering the Difficult Questions”
The Greater Venice Chapter of Hadassah invites you to its mah/cards/ games day at Bay Indies Resort (off Venice Avenue and Bay Indies Blvd.) in Indies Hall (first clubhouse). The fun takes place from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The cost of $20 includes bagels, coffee and a home-made lunch. Bring your own game or we can assign you to a game. Send your check to Hadassah, 4220 Tennyson Way, Venice, FL 34293. For more information, call Ruth at 941.492.6025.
What happens when a Reform rabbi is stumped by a question? S/he consults with the Responsa Committee, which uses ancient Jewish teachings, modern Jewish values, insight, creativity, sensitivity and intellect to find answers to tough Jewish questions. In this follow-up to last year’s popular class, Rabbi Richard Klein will explore questions such as: A minyan on the Internet? Boycotts in the name of social justice? Can we eat corn and rice on Pesach? And more… Join us on Tuesdays, April 21 and 28, at 10:30 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Reservations are recommended. Free admission for Temple Emanu-El members; a donation of $18 is requested of community members. For more information or to make a reservation, please contact Temple Emanu-El Adult Education Chair Beth Ann Salzman at bethannys@comcast.net.
Cteen “Vintage Touch” Cteen is a Jewish teen club that compacts exhilarating fun and meaningful projects into a program that’s thrilling and uniting. Cteen events happen at least monthly, but the moments last a lifetime. The impact is magnificent, the experience priceless. Join us at 7:30 p.m. at Chabad of Venice, 2169 S. Tamiami Trail. Cteen programs are underwritten by The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee. No cost. For more information, contact Chaya Rivka Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rivka@chabadofvenice.com. Sponsored by
Dr. Rachel Dulin presentation Dr. Dulin will present “Is the Bible a Political Book?” She will provide a lively and insightful view of Biblical texts. Discussion follows. Bring your own lunch. Beverages provided. This free event takes place from noon to 2:00 p.m. at the Jewish Congregation of Venice, 600 N. Auburn Rd. For more information, call the JCV office at 941.484.2022.
Rosh Chodesh Society – Soulmates Join Chanie Bukiet for RCS’s intriguing seven-week course, “Soulmates: Behind Closed Doors.” The sixth class is entitled “Sacred Space - Defining Marriage’s Boundaries.” This course is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. The course begins at 7:30 p.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. Cost: $75 per course, textbooks included; $15 per class. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 x3 or info@chabadofbradenton.com. Sponsored by
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22
aPril 15–May 17 for tickets 941-366-1505 OR
westcoast
black theatre
westcoastblacktheatre.org
troUPe
PAID FOR IN PART BY SARASOTA COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX REVENUES
L’Dor V’Dor
Yom HaZikaron / Yom HaAtzmaut Remember on Yom HaZikaron the courageous defenders of Israel who have lost their precious lives for the Jewish homeland and the Jewish people, as we join in prayers for Israel’s beloved martyrs, and then rejoice on the birthday of the State of Israel (Yom HaAtzmaut) with songs, movies, music and kosher food. In Israel, the sad remembrances of Yom HaZikaron are immediately followed by the rejoicing of Yom HaAtzmaut, and we shall follow this wonderful tradition in the Diaspora! Join us at 5:00 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5910 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Donations are greatly appreciated. To RSVP, call Beverly Newman at 941.313.9239.
Above and Beyond at Temple Emanu-El
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ollier Group THE
Janis Collier, REALTOR® n 941.313.1212 JanisCollier@michaelsaunders.com Mary Collier, REALTOR® n 941.400.7015 MaryCollier@michaelsaunders.com
Would you risk everything – your future, your citizenship, even your life – to help a brother in need? In 1948, a group of Jewish American pilots answered a call for help. In secret and at great personal risk, they smuggled planes out of the U.S., trained behind the Iron Curtain, and flew for Israel in its War of Independence. This ragtag band not only turned the tide of the war, they also embarked on personal journeys of discovery and renewed Jewish pride. In conjunction with Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut, at 7:30 p.m., Temple EmanuEl (151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota) is honored to screen Above and Beyond – the new and acclaimed documentary film, produced by Nancy Spielberg, telling their story. General admission is $5 at the door, with limited seating. Preferred seating may be reserved by sending $18/seat to Temple EmanuEl, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232, attn: Above and Beyond. Checks should be made out to Temple Emanu-El. Once costs have been covered, all additional proceeds will be donated to Friends of the Israel Defense Forces. For more information, please call 941.379.1997.
Ron Collier, REALTOR®, JD n 941.321.9045 RonCollier@michaelsaunders.com 1801 Main Street | Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941.951.6660
�orida studio theatre
R! “Talented E V O ELD
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performers” Never Marry A Girl With
COLD FEET
- Venice Gondolier
Richard Hopkins, Artistic Director
Women of Sinai luncheon and program Join us at noon for a presentation by Max Winitz, local news anchor from WWSB ABC 7. A catered lunch will be served. The event takes place at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota. For pricing and reservations, call the temple office at 941.924.1802.
N’shei Chabad Women’s Rosh Chodesh Society
- The Observer
“Richly entertaining”
THURSDAY, APRIL 23
“Fun”
“Lively” - Total Theater
- Sarasota Herald-Tribune
366-9000 �oridastudiotheatre.org
1241 N. Palm Avenue, Downtown Sarasota
N’shei Chabad Women invites all women to attend the Rosh Chodesh Society class, which includes a talk entitled “Reservations for Two – Defining Marriage’s Boundaries.” We may all agree that marriage requires boundaries to protect its exclusivity, but the question of where those lines should be drawn can spark heated debate. Judaism shows us not only how to thwart temptations that threaten our marriage from the outside, but how to enhance it from within by expanding the exclusivity of our relationship. Following the talk, led by Sara Steinmetz, women will enjoy learning about Chi Kung Massage with Rosann Argenti. For underwriting the course we thank Chabad’s First Lady, Anne Stein. All are welcome at 7:15 p.m. at Chabad of Sarasota, 7700 Beneva Road. Cost: Free for Rebbetzin Circle members; $10 for N’shei Women members; $12 for nonmembers. Advance reservations are required to 941.925.0770.
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JEWISH HAPPENINGS FRIDAY, APRIL 24
April 2015
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THURSDAY, APRIL 30
CHJ presents Elinor Borenstine
TBS Sisterhood Knitting and Crafts
The Congregation for Humanistic Judaism will host Elinor Borenstine following its 7:30 p.m. Israel Independence Day service and the voices of the Humanaires. Elinor will tell us the story of how Eddie Jacobson, her father, influenced President Harry S. Truman to recognize the State of Israel in “My Father Eddie Jacobson, Harry Truman, and the Creation of the State of Israel.” Eddie Jacobson was a former Kansas City, Missouri, haberdashery partner of President Truman. Elinor was the originator of Fellowship Dolls – now The Dolls for Democracy. She was Guardian ad Litem in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court for 17 years, and retired to play duplicate bridge and is a Gold Life Master. CHJ is located at Unity, 3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota. For more information, call 941.929.7771 or visit www.chj-sarasota.org.
Everyone is welcome to join the Temple Beth Sholom Sisterhood’s monthly Knitting and Crafts group from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. Pizza and drinks available at $5 per person. Please contact Molly Ballow at 941.377.1340 or mollysquilts. bal@aol.com for more information and to RSVP.
Temple Beth El presents “Shabbat Israel Live” Join the Temple Beth El family and the “Shabbat Live” musical group as we welcome Shabbat and salute Israel on its 67th anniversary of independence. The evening will be an Erev Shabbat service with song and merriment led by Rabbi Harold Caminker and Cantor Alan Cohn and our “Shabbat Live” musicians & vocalists – Deborah Suta, Albert and Spencer and Mallory Rosenstein, and Robbie and Kelsey Taylor. Our monthly “Shabbat Live” celebrations have been embraced by all and have been a great success filling our sanctuary with love. Please join us at 7:30 p.m. at 4200 32nd Street West, Bradenton. For more information, please call the Temple Beth El office at 941.755.4900, Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to noon.
SATURDAY, APRIL 25 Tot Shabbat at Temple Emanu-El Join us at 10:30 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El (151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota) for a relaxed, welcoming, festive Shabbat celebration for young Jewish and interfaith families. There will be playground time, a bagel breakfast, and age-appropriate Shabbat prayers, songs, movement, and story with Rabbi Brenner Glickman. This month we’ll also celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut – Israel Independence Day – with simple Israeli dancing, an “archaeological dig” for real Israeli coins, an Israel craft and, of course, birthday cake! Although Tot Shabbat is designed for families with children ages 1-6, all are invited to this free event. For more information, call Rabbi Elaine Rose Glickman at 941.379.1997.
TBSS Parent University Parent University is a series of parenting workshops, taught by various experts, at Temple Beth Sholom Schools. The mission is to provide an opportunity for parents to learn how to best support and encourage their children through their academic journeys. Angela Hartvigsen, Arts Specialist for the Sarasota School Board, and Brian Hersh, Program Director with Any Given Child, will discuss Summer Enrichment. The workshop takes place from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom Schools, 1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. Childcare is provided. Please call 941.552.2770 for more information.
Looking to connect with other members of the Jewish community? The Jewish Federation would like to welcome you to the area.
We Welcome You!
We hope you feel at home and become active members of the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish community.
SUNDAY, APRIL 26 Yom HaAtzmaut – Independence Day celebration Sponsored by
Join us from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. on the Federation Campus (580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota) in celebration of Israel’s birthday. There will be fun activities such as Krav Maga, Israeli face-painting, an archeological dig, placing notes in the Kotel, balloons and Israeli food. No cost. For more information, contact Orna Nissan at 941.552.6305 or onissan@jfedsrq.org.
Yom HaZikaron / Yom HaAtzmaut Israeli brunch Chabad of Sarasota’s Club 770 men’s club presents a tribute to the Israel Defense Forces in honor of Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut. A light brunch will be served featuring falafel and other Israeli delicacies. Men and women are welcome at 9:00 a.m. at Chabad of Sarasota, 7700 Beneva Road. Cost: $10 for Club 770 members, $12 for nonmembers. RSVP by April 23 to 941.925.0770 or info@chabadofsarasota.com.
The Jewish Federation offers programming for all ages! From PJ Library & Shalom Baby through teen leadership missions to YAD, women’s events, Club Fed & 50 Shades of J to senior services - your Federation provides support throughout Sarasota and Manatee.
Learn more at jfedsrq.org/whatwedo
A POWERFUL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY HOLOCAUST, GENOCIDE AND TOLERANCE EDUCATION
MANY INSPIRING SPEAKERS TO CHOOSE FROM INCLUDING:
The Holocaust Speakers Bureau offers teachers a unique opportunity to expand their students’ classroom experience. We have a large number of Holocaust survivors who reside in this community. They are very motivated to visit school children and give their eyewitness accounts of the Holocaust. Also available are speakers who were hidden children, those saved through the “Kindertransport”, resistance fighters, refugees, as well as World War II camp liberators.
HILDE MANDEL PAUL MOLNAR RIFKA GLATZ MARK SOLENT HENRY TENENBAUM
All speakers are authentic to their respective experiences and feel a strong commitment to bring an awareness of the consequences that result when evil is allowed to flourish. They feel privileged and grateful to live in this wonderful country where their voices are being heard. For Booking Contact
Anne Stein, Speakers Bureau Coordinator 941.923.6470 • luvhula@gmail.com
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY
For Questions Contact Orna Nissan, Director, Holocaust Education and Israel Programs 941.552.6305 • onissan@jfedsrq.org www.TheJewishFederation.org
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COMMENTARY
April 2015
Passover – the festival of our freedom From the Bimah Rabbi Sholom Schmerling, Chabad of Venice & North Port
P
assover is known as Z’man Cheruteinu – the festival of our freedom. We Jews have celebrated this festival of freedom under varying circumstances. Jews under the Spanish Inquisition had to mark their “freedom” in a secret cellar and even then many were caught and burnt publicly. Jews in Auschwitz and other concentration camps risked their lives to gather and “celebrate their freedom.” Jews that lived in perpetual fear under the Soviet boot held clandestine Seders to observe the festival of their “freedom.” Yet, whether it was a Russian Jew substituting four glasses of tea and three sugar cubes for wine and matzah, a Jew in Auschwitz using a few scraps
of potatoes and memories of home, or a 21st century Jew enjoying four cups of expensive wine and the best matzah available for purchase, all declare equally their state of freedom and liberation at the Seder. To explain this apparent paradox we must define what enslavement and freedom truly are. What exactly took place on the 15th day of Nissan some 3,327 years ago that dramatically transformed us into intrinsically free people? Chassidism teaches that Mitzrayim (Egypt) is not just a geographical location but rather also a state of mind and being. Indeed, the enslavement of our ancestors in Egypt was spiritual as well as physical. The children of Israel were steeped in the Egyptian culture of idolatry and immorality. They were slaves to Egyptian society as much as to the Egyptian taskmasters. Liberation from Egypt, it follows, was also freedom from the spiritual slavery. When G-d liberated us from Egypt, He brought us to Sinai, gave us the Torah and mitzvot, and made us His people, thereby effectively imbuing us with an intrinsic sense of freedom stemming from our relationship with Him. From that moment on the Jewish people cannot be subject to true
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enslavement by another nation. As the Yiddish saying goes, “Der guf ken farshikt veren in Golus, ober di Neshama ken men nisht farshiken in Golus” – “Our bodies can be sent into exile, but the soul can never be subjugated.” As such, no matter what type of persecution is perpetrated upon us, the freedom that dwells within the soul of the Jew cannot be taken away. It is this inherent freedom that is celebrated on Passover irrespective of current external circumstances. There is, however, one possibility for eliminating this freedom. The only ones with the power to do so is we ourselves. Philosophers define freedom as the uninhibited ability to reach one’s potential. As such it means different things for different beings. For a plant, freedom is the lack of restriction on the circumstances that enhance its ability to grow. For an animal, freedom is the absence of restrictions on movement. For a human being, however, unrestricted growth and movement are not yet true freedom. For a human, freedom has much more depth. Human freedom is connected to intellectual development. When human beings restrict their intellect to the pursuit of petty indulgences, they are robbing
themselves of their freedom. As mentioned, a Jew’s freedom is connected to a relationship with G-d through the Torah that was given at Sinai and the mitzvot contained within it. When Jews choose to live a life that is not devoted to this goal, they strip themselves of the inherent freedom that was gifted to them by G-d. Passover, especially for those of us who do not live in times or places of persecution, is an ideal opportunity to honestly examine how “free” we really are. Do we tap into the infinite potential of a relationship with G-d? Are we prisoners of society and our desire to fit in and be like everyone else, when we should be concentrating on accessing our inherent freedom by allowing our souls to dictate the direction of our lives? Let us spend this Passover reflecting on our appreciation of the physical freedom which we are afforded and the spiritual freedom that should result. Let us commit ourselves to becoming a truly free people as evidenced by our dedication to the fulfillment of G-d’s infinite will, which is expressed in the Torah. In doing so we will experience the real freedom that became an inseparable part of our nation’s psyche 3,327 years ago.
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COMMENTARY
April 2015
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After Copenhagen, what next for Europe? By David Harris, Executive Director, AJC, February 15, 2015
O
nce again, the jihadists have attacked, this time in Copent hagen. n Once again, they have murdered tinnocent people. p Once again, they have targeted mboth democratic values – freedom of speech and the press – and a minority community – the Jews. f And once again, Europe has been oreminded that it is at the center, not the yperiphery, of this global challenge. As a result, we will have all the eright symbolic gestures, which I don’t owish to minimize. n There will be visits to the syna-gogue, solidarity events, statements of anguish, and affirmations of collective will and determination. But will they really change anything on the ground? That remains to lbe seen. e With each such bloody outrage, we .earnestly hope that something might be -learned because we don’t want to bedlieve that history must continue to refpeat itself in this all-too-familiar cycle dof killings, vigils and mourning. And yet, after 15 years of engagning with European leaders to get their eattention, help them understand what stares them in the face, and press for sustained action, I’m not quite ready to bet the family farm that the day after tomorrow will be all that different than the day before yesterday. Even so, I desperately want to believe that Europe, with all its dazzling achievements since the end of World War II, can still strengthen its resolve, stiffen its spine, and fully understand the stakes involved, however late in the day it is. Here is what I wish would happen now. First, the European Union should quickly organize a high-level conference to discuss the rise in anti-Semitism, as evidenced by repeated terror attacks, EU polls showing rising fear among Jews, and statistics in countries like France and the United Kingdom revealing a major spike in anti-Semitic incidents. It ought to discuss and adopt a comprehensive plan of action, and then implement and monitor it. Second, European leaders must understand, as French Prime Minister Manuel Valls has, that anti-Semitism is not only an attack on Jews, but also an assault on Europe and its values. The two cannot be separated. That was amply illustrated in the attacks in Paris
last month and in Copenhagen this month. In the end, if there is no other choice, Jews will leave Europe, but where will Europe go, unless, that is, it is prepared to succumb to the jihadist threat? Third, call a spade a spade. For many Europeans, there is no hesitation in identifying the source of anti-Semitism when it emanates from right-wing extremists. But when anti-Semitism, including deadly violence, springs from within a segment of the Muslim population, verbal acrobatics all too often come into play. If you can’t name the adversary, how can you effectively fight it? Of course, this problem is not unique to Europe. In the United States, we saw the massacre at Fort Hood ludicrously labeled “workplace violence” rather than the jihadist violence it so obviously was, and our government’s refusal to refer to “Islamist” or “jihadist” terrorism, even when the perpetrators themselves do. Fourth, stop tying anti-Semitism to Islamophobia, as if the two are Siamese twins. AJC’s Brussels office has been trying for months to encourage a European Parliament hearing on antiSemitism, only to be met with insistence that any such meeting include Islamophobia. Why this demand to join the two together, when the major-
ity of incidents occurs against Jews, when Europe has a particularly ugly history of anti-Semitism, and when the principal attackers of Jews invoke their Islamic faith? Fifth, recognize that we confront both a short- and long-term menace that won’t be overcome by even the most eloquent of speeches and the most symbolic of acts. Rather, it requires a full-court, sustained effort by individual governments (and, of course, by the EU) using the resources they have the capacity to mobilize, joined by the determined efforts of civil society. Sixth, connect the lessons of the Holocaust to the present-day threat to the Jews. I’ve witnessed too many Holocaust-related events where murdered Jews are mourned – Jews who, tragically, cannot be brought back to life – but that totally ignore the current dangers to living Jews. A refusal to connect the two quite frankly empties these commemorations of much of their meaning and sincerity. Seventh, don’t apologize for European values of democracy, human dig-
nity, openness and pluralism. Europe has built something to be proud of and that is well worth defending. It is, after all, to Europe that refugees and immigrants are seeking to go by any means possible to escape failed or failing societies, and not the other way around. It’s high time to stand up in defense of these noble values and do everything possible to ensure that newcomers embrace them as well. And last, but by no means least, it is important to understand that the jihadist barbarism which Europe is experiencing firsthand is not much different from what Israel has been facing for decades. Why, then, does Europe continue to try drawing a distinction, when, in reality, none exists? The same jihadists who hate Europe detest Israel, and the same jihadists who wish for Israel’s annihilation aspire to no less for Europe as we know it. Since hope springs eternal, here’s hoping for the dawning of a new day, starting right now. For more information, visit www.ajc. org.
Opinions and letters printed in The Jewish News of SarasotaManatee do not necessarily reflect those of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers.
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April 2015
COMMENTARY
Free stuff for Palestinians By Moshe Phillips and Benyamin Korn, March 2, 2015
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eing a Palestinian Arab gets you all sorts of things these days. In addition to longstanding bonus perks such as sympathetic international media coverage and endless handouts from various United Nations agencies, it now turns out that among the benefits of being a Palestinian is free electricity. The only reason we know about this remarkable Middle Eastern freebie is that the New York Times finally had an opportunity to accuse Israel of withholding it. Without Israel as the villain, the story just wasn’t fit to print. But last week the Times dutifully reported that the Israel Electric Corporation “briefly reduced the power supply to two Palestinian districts in the northern West Bank on Monday because of a ballooning debt, according to company officials.” The size of that ballooning debt? Nearly half a billion dollars. That’s right, the Palestinian Authority owes Israel a staggering $485 million in electricity bills. And even that enormous default led to only a slight reduction – “for less than an
hour” – and only to two PA districts. And that only came after repeated warnings by the Israel Electric Corporation and attempts by the IEC “to find an arrangement to reduce the debt through contacts with the Israeli government and international bodies, to no avail.” So let’s assume for a moment that you had an electricity bill of $485. Not $485 million, just $485. And let’s say you didn’t feel like paying it. Do you think there is any electric company in the United States that would keep your power turned on, even as you ignored repeated warnings to pay up? Do you think your electricity provider would then contact the federal government or international agencies to work out “an arrangement” with you? And if you persisted in your scofflaw ways, would the electric company then only reduce power to, say, your living room and basement for less than an hour, as a warning? Not a chance, of course. If you don’t pay, then within a short time, your power would simply be turned off.
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Moreover, UNRWA has employed an incredibly elastic definition of “refugee” in order to maintain a permanent constituency for handouts. To qualify as a “refugee,” a Palestinian Arab need not have ever moved from one city or country to another. He only has to be a descendant of an Arab who left ‘Palestine’ in 1948. That’s like declaring most of today’s American Jews “refugees” since their grandparents or great grandparents fled pogroms in Czarist Russia. Add to that the aid-without-accountability package that the Palestinian Authority has been receiving from the United States. At $500 million annually for 21 years, the total has now surpassed $10 billion. The aid has continued to flow despite widespread corruption in the PA and despite the PA’s violations of the Oslo accords, for example its refusal to extradite terrorists to Israel for prosecution, and its endless anti-Israel and anti-Jewish incitement. It turns out the symbol of the “Palestinian revolution” is an outstretched hand, with American taxpayers subsidizing the dole. Moshe Phillips is president and Benyamin Korn is chairman of the Religious Zionists of America, Philadelphia
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Educate your civic group, church or synagogue and community about Israel with the Speakers Bureau for Israel. The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee through the Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative can provide a group of passionate and highly informed speakers to give clear and direct factual information about Israel and current events surrounding Israel both political and militarily.
But the constant pressure and criticism from the UN and the international media have created a kind of battered wife syndrome, in which nervous Israeli government officials hesitate to apply normal standards of law and order, lest Israel be the subject of a new round of criticism for “mistreating” Palestinians by “depriving” them of electricity. Indeed, the Israelis have already agreed to stop the brief reductions of power in exchange for a payment of $75 million. Not a payment from the PA, mind you; it still refuses to pay a penny of the bill. Israel took the $75 million out of some tax revenue that the Israeli government had planned to transfer to the PA, but had temporarily held up. From the Palestinians’ perspective, this is all old hat. They have been receiving free stuff from Israel and the international community for decades, so they must be used to it by now. The most egregious example is the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). Established in the wake of the 1948 Arab invasion of Israel, it has provided untold sums of assistance to Palestinian Arabs who fled Israel, but no aid to the far greater number of Jews who were expelled from Arab countries.
THOSE CALLING FOR A BOYCOTT OF ISRAEL ARE IGNORING SOME PAINFUL TRUTHS
Recently, 700 British artists had a letter published in the Guardian in which they called on others to boycott Israel until what they term the “colonial occupation” ends. As someone who supports the creation of a Palestinian state, it has been a long time since I saw a letter so shallow and lacking in coherence. The fact that the majority of the signatories are unaware of the reality here in the Middle East doesn’t reassure me. I wonder if anyone told the signatories that in 2000 and in 2008, Israel offered the Palestinians the chance to build an independent state on over 90% of the territories, and on both occasions the Palestinians refused. Do they know that Gaza is ruled by Hamas, a terrorist organization that punishes homosexuality with hanging? As artists – who by definition are people with imagination – let’s imagine the IDF puts down its weapons and stops protecting the people of Israel for 24 hours. What do they think would happen? Radical Islamists would kill us all. Women and children first. That’s what they’re doing to their brethren across the Islamic world. To end the conflict Israel only has one demand: security for our citizens. We don’t believe that’s unreasonable. In 2005, Israel pulled out of Gaza without any demands, took down the settlements and removed the army. The Palestinians kicked out the Palestinian Authority and brought in Hamas – a fundamentalist Islamist terror group of the worst kind. And after a few months
F A Q
they began building terror tunnels into Israeli territory and started massive rocket and mortar fire upon Israel’s innocent civilian population. (Yair Lapid, past Israel finance minister and member of the security cabinet, Guardian - UK)
WHY ISRAEL MATTERS TO AMERICA
Israel is a mirror image of America in its commitment to religious liberty, education, women’s rights, free speech, democratic governance and free-market capitalism. While a Jewish state, Israel also protects all religious shrines and provides Christians, Muslims and Jews universal access to all religious sites. (How many churches or synagogues are equally protected by the Syrians or the Iranians?) Israel’s military also takes extraordinary measures to prevent civilian casualties. I witnessed the elaborate steps they take to protect noncombatants – even those used as human shields to protect terrorists. No nation, not even the United States, takes greater care to protect civilians. While we may offer them arms and military hardware, Israel has never asked us to provide American personnel to fight their battles. We are equally targeted for annihilation by Islamic jihadists. The forces that toppled the Twin Towers; flew an airplane into the Pentagon; behead Christian children, journalists and relief workers; and burn alive a captured pilot – have vowed to kill every Jew and every American. (Mike Huckabee, former Arkansas governor who first visited Israel 42 years ago at age 17, Washington Examiner)
How do I get items in The Jewish News? Email your articles and photos to jewishnews18@gmail.com. What are The Jewish News deadlines? Items are due the 25th of each month, or earlier if the 25th falls on a weekend or holiday. Where can I get a copy of The Jewish News? Papers are available at several local libraries, synagogues and offices throughout Sarasota-Manatee. See the ad on page 6A. Have another location where you’d like to see the newspaper? Email jhanley@jfedsrq.org and let her know. How do I place an ad in The Jewish News? Contact Robin Leonardi, account executive, at 941.552.6307 or rleonardi@jfedsrq.org.
ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD
BRIEFS continued from page 27A
PALESTINIAN ACTIVIST: “ISRAEL IS NOT AN APARTHEID STATE”
Palestinian Bassem Eid, 56, grew up in a refugee camp in east Jerusalem but does not blame Israel for those difficult years. He blames Jordan for removing 500 people from the old city in Jerusalem in 1966 and creating the camp. In fact, he says he would rather be a Palestinian refugee in Israel than in Syria, Lebanon or Jordan. “Israel is not an apartheid state,” he said. “It’s a democracy. Arabs are treated at the best hospitals and study at the best universities in Israel. Did that happen during apartheid?” Eid, a human rights activist and political analyst, was brought to South Africa by the SA Jewish Board of Deputies to counter the messages being put out during Israel Apartheid Week. He said that outside interference and calls for boycotts of Israel make
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the Palestinian-Israeli situation worse. (Katharine Child, Times Live - South Africa)
ARAB ISRAELIS VOLUNTEERING FOR ISRAEL’S NATIONAL SERVICE
While most Jewish citizens of Israel are conscripted into the Israel Defense Forces (women for two years, men for three), Arab citizens of Israel are exempt. While the Arab leadership has discouraged national service for civilian tasks, because the program is run by Israel’s Defense Ministry, more and more young Arabs are joining the ranks, seeing it as a way to get ahead in Israeli society. The number of Arabs volunteering for national service in local Arab communities, schools and hospitals has jumped 30% in the past year to more than 4,000. When they finish, they receive the same benefits as anyone who has served in the army. (Linda Gradstein, Media Line-Ynet News)
For daily news stories related to Israel & the Jewish world, visit the Federation’s website at www.jfedsrq.org.
April 2015 GAZANS ENJOY ISRAELI PRODUCTS AMID WEST BANK PALESTINIANS’ BOYCOTT
Israeli products are available at malls and supermarkets throughout Gaza, while in the West Bank, the Palestinians had decided to boycott these products. The Gaza-based ministry of national economy gave permission to Gaza businessmen to import products made in Israel, which used to be banned, because “local industry and factories in Gaza are unable to produce these kinds of products.” Gaza used to get products from Egypt through underground tunnels, many of which have now been destroyed. (Hamada Hattab and Osama Radi, Xinhua - China)
WJC HAILS LANDMARK DECISION BY POLISH COURT TO LIFT KOSHER SLAUGHTER BAN
The ruling by Poland’s Constitutional Tribunal found the ban on religious slaughter (shechita) unconstitutional, and vindicated the stance by the Union of Polish Jewish Communities, which had lodged a petition last year to the high court to overturn the ban. Last year, the Sejm, Poland’s legislature, rejected a government bill that would have kept shechita legal. On January 1, 2013, the slaughter of animals without prior stunning was made illegal. Before the ban, Poland had been a major exporter of kosher and halal meat and poultry to
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the Middle East. World Jewish Congress (WJC) President Ambassador Ronald S. Lauder praised the ruling as a “landmark decision,” adding: “Poland’s Constitutional Tribunal has come down unequivocally in favor of religious freedom…the decision also sends a clear signal: Jews, Jewish life and Jewish traditions are welcome in Poland.” Amb. Lauder expressed the hope that this decision will prevent other European countries from moving ahead with similar plans to ban religious slaughter. “The World Jewish Congress will continue to oppose attempts, in whatever guise, to restrict religious freedom in Europe,” he said. Since 2013, the WJC, in close cooperation with the Jewish community in Poland, launched a major campaign – including a global petition drive – in defense of kosher slaughter. (World Jewry Digest)
Jerusalem Post Crossword Puzzle Solution to puzzle on page 20A N A B S
I D E A S
M O N T H
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ConneCt with your Jewish Community facebook.com/jfedsrq
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HISTORY. CULTURE. AND SO MUCH MORE. Get to know Israel and her people!
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April 2015
Have a joyous Passover. And share what it means to you. #PassoverPublix