The Jewish News - January 2020 by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

75 Annivesay of Libeatio th

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Celebrating Jewish Life in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Israel and the World FEDERATION NEWS

Y e a r s g 0 5 n i t a r eb l e C

PUBLISHED BY

The Jewish Federation OF SARASOTA-MANATEE

THE LARRY & MARY GREENSPON FAMILY CAMPUS FOR JEWISH LIFE

January 2020 - Tevet/Shevat 5780 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: 16A Community Focus 26A Jewish Interest 32A Commentary 36A Focus on Youth 39A Life Cycle 1B Jewish Happenings

3A Sarasota’s Blumenthal family: Building for a better tomorrow

8A Save the date for Federation’s annual Jewish Film Festival

www.jfedsrq.org

Volume 50, Number 1

2020: Join us as we TRANSFORM our Jewish Federation By Randon Carvel, President; Kim Mullins, Chief Operating Officer; and Howard Tevlowitz, Chief Executive Officer

n 2020, The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life will begin a tremendous transformation. Our recent Jewish community study, showing that our Jewish population has doubled in the last 18 years, presents The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee with huge opportunities for growth in outreach, cultural arts partnerships, programs for families and so much more. Our community members expressed their desire for greater connections to other Jews, more options for engaging with like-minded individuals, and thoughtprovoking, innovative educational programs. Our centrally located 32-acre campus on McIntosh Road will serve as the hub for many of these offerings. However, in order to meet the demand, a complete renovation is in order. Space will be flexible, allowing Federation to respond quickly to community needs. No membership is required. Federation will remain nimble with a pay-for-service model focused on the following areas:

Learning and building community Offering formal K-8 Jewish education and engagement for our area’s youth, with our partner, Hershorin Schiff Community Day School Educating our community about diversity, the Holocaust and advocacy against anti-Semitism, in the Robert and Esther Heller Israel Center Continuing to act as a community convener, building relationships with the Jewish and non-Jewish

communities in an inclusive, welcoming environment Cultural arts, food and programming Producing innovative, quality programming for “babies to bubbies” Providing affordable communal meeting space and catering services Bringing the best Jewish thought leaders and entertainment from around the world to the SarasotaManatee area continued on page 2A

Jewish Federation announces 2020 Board of Directors By Gayle Guynup

11A Namesake Israel Center donors Robert and Esther Heller honored by Federation

38A Temple Sinai Religious School students enjoy Hawaiian Luau and Scavenger Hunt

he Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s Board of Directors approved its new slate of officers for 2020 at its December meeting. Randon Carvel will serve as the new president of the board. “My goals as the new president will include continuing to raise valuable resources in order to provide for those members of our community who still have real needs in spite of the economic gains most of our community has experienced,” Carvel said. “In light of the amazing growth of our local Jewish community, now with approximately 35,000 people living in Jewish households, we hope to engage them in even more meaningful ways both

A publication of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life Klingenstein Jewish Center, 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota, FL 34232 Annual voluntary subscription: $25

NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID MANASOTA FL PERMIT 167

on our incredible re-imagined 32-acre other Jewish organizations valuable incampus and by bringing Federation to formation about the needs and wants of them throughout our twoour community members. county area.” “Our new President, Past President Michael Randon Carvel, has been Ritter noted, “During the very involved with Fedlast two years, through the eration for several years hard work of our talented and understands our orgastaff and lay leadership, nization and its challenges. we’ve made great progI am very confident that ress toward realizing our Randon is up to this chalvision of redeveloping our lenge and will do a great Randon Carvel 32-acre campus, as well job.” as successfully launching our capital Other officers will include Michael campaign required to fund the project. Ritter, Immediate Past President; Ian We also completed our first communiBlack, Vice-President Campus Utility-wide population study in 18 years, zation; Merrill Wynne, Vice-President which will provide the Federation and continued on page 2A ▼

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2020...continued from page 1A Providing formal exhibit space for local artists and traveling exhibitions Showcasing the best of Israel and its people in Sarasota-Manatee through providing space for Israeli businesses, technology, the arts, food and more Environmental Establishing a sustainable food garden Maximizing efficiencies through solar energy Keeping our community safe and secure is a goal and a priority for our Federation. After the shootings at synagogues in Pittsburgh, San Diego and Germany, the safety of every individual visiting all Jewish campuses is paramount. In order to achieve this, a new Community Security Director will be hired by Federation in the coming months to oversee the implementation of a 21st century security plan on the campus. The Community Security Director will work with our area congregations and Jewish institutions to assess their security needs, provide training for staff and lay leadership, and assist with implementation of security plans. Future plans for the back 16 acres include: • The Larry & Mary Greenspon Sports Complex • The Marie Cohen Hadida Zachor

Holocaust Remember Me Orchard • A Holocaust Memorial Reflection Pond • A Jewish Day Camp Want to get involved? The next steps include a formal strategic planning process, program development and more. Committees will utilize the Jewish community study as their baseline for data-driven decision-making to inform our priorities, programming and future plans for the Federation and its campus. Contact one of us and we will be happy to help you find the place that’s right for you. (Randon Carvel – rcarvel@jfedsrq.org; Kim Mullins – kmullins@jfedsrq.org; Howard Tevlowitz – htevlowitz@jfedsrq.org) If you’re interested in learning more about the campus renovation project or the Jewish community study, join us for a Town Hall presentation on Friday, January 17 at 10:00 a.m. or Monday, February 24 at 6:00 p.m. on the Federation campus. Visit jfedsrq. org/events for details or to register. We are united in our feelings of pride and excitement about what the next two years of Randon Carvel’s presidency will hold. We are at the threshold of major change. We hope that the community will join us and embrace what our collective future holds.

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JEWISH CALENDAR OF EVENTS IN SARASOTA AND MANATEE

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FEDERATION NEWS

Board of Directors...continued from page 1A Development; Stacy Hanan, Vicemoved to the Sarasota area in 2013 and President Capital Campaign; Bob Isnow reside on Longboat Key. raeloff, Treasurer; David Millstone, Larry Zaslavsky and his wife Secretary and Governance Officer; and Sheree are originally from Chicago. at-large officers: Tom Bernstein, Roz The couple moved first to SavannahScho Goldberg, Anne Spindel, Peter Wells and then Sarasota three years ago.build and Patti Wertheimer. Zaslavsky is a CPA and an attorneyspon New board members include Joel who spent his career purchasing andin A Morganroth, Mark Smotkin and Larry running many small to medium-sizedBlum Zaslavsky. companies. In Savannah, he was a realgift Dr. Morganroth has lived on Siesta estate developer. Sheree owned a con-thal Key with his wife Gail for 10 years. He fectionary brokerage company. It wasthal serves as a Trustee of Ringling Colwhile in Savannah that he became in-gran lege of Art + Design, Sarasota Memovolved and passionate about the Jewish C rial Healthcare Foundation and Marie Federation. the s Selby Botanical Gardens. Hailing from Other directors include Sepi Ack-Blum Philadelphia, he is an academic cardierman, Marsha Eisenberg, Linda Lip-the b ologist. He currently serves as Chief son, Bunny Skirboll, Len Drexler,as w Cardiac Consultant for ERT, a global Lauren Fineman, Mary Gratehouse,the clinical research organization that deWayne Ruben, Alan Silverglat, Melie F termines the cardiac and pulmonary Taub and Michelle Mitchell. Lifetime2000 safety of new drugs. members of the Board of Directors inC Mark Smotkin is from York, Pennclude Barbara Ackerman, Alan Ades,sota sylvania, and was a partner with Ernst Tom Bernstein, David Chaifetz, Rozinvo and Young, specializing in transacGoldberg, Lewis Hanan, Lois Stulberg tional tax law, primarily serving the and Patti Wertheimer. private equity industry. He served Cycling off the board this year on various boards in Washington and are Al Ernst, Simone Knego, Iris Nawas involved with Jewish Social Serhemow, Nancy Roucher and Adrea vices. He and his wife Danielle have Sukin. two children, Eddie and Natalie. They

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January 2020

FEDERATION NEWS

Building for a better tomorrow

hen the middle school students of the Hershorin Schiff Community Day School walk into their new school building on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life in August 2021, they’ll be entering the Blumenthal Building, with the lead gift provided by Sarasota’s Blumenthal family. And, as Colleen Blumenthal said, “This isn’t going to be your grandfather’s Jewish day school.” Colleen is a former president of the school’s Board of Trustees; Mitch Blumenthal is a current co-chair of the board. Their sons Sam and Noah – as well as a cousin – graduated from the school, formerly known as Goldie Feldman Academy (GFA), in the 2000s. Colleen and Mitch moved to Sarasota in 1990 and immediately became involved with the Jewish community.

Noah’s enrollment. For Colleen, education is everything. She was a self-proclaimed “GE [General Electric] brat” who moved every three years. Her parents insisted on investing every penny they could into putting five children through private school, foregoing family vacations and other luxuries. “Private education is an investment you make in your children,” she said. “What I like about Community Day School is that it’s not just about teaching facts and figures, but it’s also about developing people who give back to the community. We believe the most effective way to change the world is to educate children, guided by Jewish values and ethics. Community Day School is doing that and very well!” For Mitch, it is the concept of l’dor vador (from generation to generation) that motivates him. His parents were charitable. His father was president of United Jewish Appeal in New York and, when times were good, they were very philanthropic. Mitch hopes that, as he and Colleen invest in the future of the school and the community, they are setting a philanthropic example that Noah, Colleen, Sam and Mitch Blumenthal their sons will follow. “We have been blessed with a forAs they reported, in those days, as soon tunate situation where we would be as a Jewish couple became pregnant it able to make an impact somewhere. was time to get on the list for GFA. Here is a school where we saw first“The school kept us Jewish, kept hand the successes it created, and it us tied to the Jewish community, and clearly could use our support,” Mitch gave our kids a phenomenal educasaid. “In the spiritual and cultural tration,” Mitch said. dition of l’dor vador, we want to pass Sam started at the school in 1998 along the philanthropic tradition of our and Colleen was engaged immediately family.” as a volunteer. One year later, she beThe “new” Community Day School came the chair of the preschool board; will feature science labs for 21st cenher involvement continued through

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tury learning, an expanded garden and greenhouse, full-size gymnasium and outdoor athletic fields, a cateringquality kitchen, art studio, access to a professional-grade theater and performance spaces, and so much more. Beyond current or future facilities, what has truly gotten – and kept – the Blumenthals involved with the school is its commitment both to educational excellence and purposeful pluralism. “At Community Day School, each person is valued for who he or she is,” Colleen said. “There is a respect for others that is sorely lacking in today’s society.” The Blumenthals note that the school is becoming known as a model for pluralism and diversity, catching the attention of Jewish day school officials through the country. Repre-

sentatives from a handful of cities have reached out to Head of School Dan Ceaser to learn more about the school’s operations and educational philosophy. Mitch – who calls the plans for the new campus “state of the art, with innovative design concepts” – can’t wait for the students to enjoy all of the educational and enrichment features to come. “These kids, going from where they are now to the new campus, are going to be so thrilled,” he said. “It’s very exciting to see the community coming together around the campus. There’s something for everyone!” For more information about how you can support The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, contact Ilene Fox at ifox@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2111.

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January 2020

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FEDERATION NEWS

Where your dollars go This series highlights mission-based programs and projects that are supported by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Funding for these initiatives is derived from the Annual Campaign. The series helps to explain where your generous dollars are spent and features certain initiatives that enrich the lives of Jews living in Sarasota-Manatee, local projects with area partners, and overseas programs that support the social and humanitarian needs of Jews in Israel and around the world. Your generous support is found in our Overseas Granting Cycle. See the article below for more information.

Impacting organizations in Israel Staff Report

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he Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and its Overseas Granting Committee are proud of the impact of the grants we provide to Israeli organizations each year. This past year, 23 organizations received grants. One such organization, which received a $10,000 grant, is ERAN – Emotional First Aid by Telephone & Internet. ERAN is an NGO (non-governmental organization) that provides mental health first aid to all residents of Israel in emotional distress, via the telephone, mobile phone and the Internet free of charge, anonymously and confidentially. When one reads ERAN’s annual reports, it is overwhelming to learn how many Holocaust survivors are saved through its emotional first aid and crisis intervention program. For the past four years, ERAN has provided a free emotional first-aid hotline dedicated to helping Holocaust survivors. Every

month, ERAN volunteers provide assistance and support on approximately 1,250 calls from Holocaust survivors in mental distress. ERAN runs a comprehensive training program, with content customized for volunteers and in conjunction with experts in the field, to deal with the unique problems that survivors and family members are facing. On the actual delivery of aid, ERAN plays an essential role in preventing suicide. The organization also partners in developing and implementing the national plan to prevent suicide. In 2018, ERAN volunteers answered approximately 191,667 calls, of which 820 were suicide attempts in progress, and 7,500 were calls with suicidal content (thoughts, intentions and threats). For more information about ERAN, visit eran.org.il. To learn more about the Federation’s overseas grants, contact Jeremy Lisitza at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org.

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January 2020

FEDERATION NEWS

d by s derous Established 1971 ving PUBLISHER that The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee orld. The Larry & Mary Greenspon the Family Campus for Jewish Life 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 50, Number 1 January 2020 52 pages USPS Permit No. 167 February 2020 Issue Deadlines: Editorial: December 26, 2019 Advertising: December 27, 2019 CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Change of address inquiries can be sent to Paula Ivory-Bishop at pibishop@jfedsrq.org or call 941.371.4546 x0

PRESIDENT Randon Carvel CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Howard Tevlowitz SENIOR DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING Marty Katz MANAGING EDITOR Ted Epstein ADVERTISING SALES Adam Kaplan – 941.552.6307 PROOFREADERS Edward D. Cohen, Marianne Mandell, Elliot Ofsowitz, Blanche Pasternak, Jeff Sherman, Jill Simons, Linda Stern, Bryna Tevlowitz

Deborah Lipstadt to speak on “Anti-Semitism Here and Now” By Gayle Guynup

his year’s Community Lecture, hosted by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, will feature Dr. Deborah Lipstadt, who has written and taught about the Holocaust for 40 years. The event, held at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium (801 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota) at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 25, will address “Anti-Semitism Here and Now,” which is also the title of Lipstadt’s most recent book. Thank you to our lead sponsor, Hannah and Norman Weinberg, and our gold sponsor, Allegiant Private Advisors. Lipstadt, the Dorot Professor of Holocaust Studies at Emory University in Atlanta, is the author of six books and numerous articles, and is widely known because of the libel lawsuit brought against her in 1996 by David Irving for having called him a Holocaust denier. After a 10-week trial in London (in 2000), the judge found for Lipstadt, and found Irving to be a neoNazi who “perverts history and engages in racist and anti-Semitic discourse.” The Daily Telegraph in London described the trial as having “done for the new century what the Nuremberg tribunals or the Eichmann trial did for earlier generations.” According to The New York Times, the trial “put an end to the pretense that Mr. Irving is anything but a self-promoting apologist for Hitler.” Lipstadt said that the trial took over her life for six years. “We won a big victory – headlines worldwide – but that victory subsumed the many years of worry about the upcoming trial, my safety, and being told by survivors that

their legacy was riding tism Here and Now, was pubon me.” lished in January 2019. The Lipstadt’s TED talk book is written in the form about the trial has reof a series of letters between ceived close to 1.2 a college student, Abigail, million views, and the and a well-intentioned, nonmovie Denial, starJewish law school professor, ring Rachel Weisz and Joe. The questions raised in Tom Wilkinson, with the letters are based on actual a screenplay by David questions that she has been Deborah Lipstadt Hare, tells the story asked about anti-Semitism. of the historic legal battle. The film is Lipstadt, who defines anti-Semibased on Lipstadt’s book, History on tism as “not the hatred of people who Trial: My Day in Court with a Holohappen to be Jews,” but rather, “the caust Denier (Harper Collins 2006), hatred of people because they are recently reissued as Denial (Harper Jews,” said that Anti-Semitism Here Collins 2016). Denial will be shown and Now examines the state of antias part of the Just Reel Film Series Semitism today. “When I first began to on Tuesday, January 14 at 7:00 p.m. write the book, some people asked why Visit jfedsrq.org/justreel to register. I was writing it. As time progressed, Lipstadt grew up in New York City, those people stopped asking why I was first on the upper West Side and then in writing it. Now those same people are Queens, in a Modern Orthodox family. asking for an updated version, though She said she first became immersed in the book has only been out for less than the Holocaust when she was a student one year.” in Israel in 1966 and 1967. Her other books include Holo“When I first arrived, survivors caust: An American Understanding, were everywhere. I felt the impact of and The Eichmann Trial. Lipstadt was the Holocaust. I was also in Israel duran historical consultant to the United ing the Six-Day War and that had a big States Holocaust Memorial Museum, impact on me,” she said. “But the greatand has held a Presidential appointest impact came when I began teaching ment to the United States Holocaust in 1975. Students desperately wanted a Memorial Council (from Presidents course on the Holocaust. I taught it and Clinton and Obama). She was asked by was asked by students what their parPresident George W. Bush to represent ents and grandparents knew during the the White House at the 60th anniversary war. That led to my first book on the of the liberation of Auschwitz. Holocaust, Beyond Belief, which told Tickets to the event are $18. the story of American press coverage To RSVP, visit jfedsrq.org/events of the Holocaust.” or call Brieana Duckett-Graves at Her most recent book, Anti-Semi941.552.6305.

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 USPS or email (jewishnews@jfedsrq.org). Not all letters will be published. Letters may be edited for length and content. ADVERTISING: Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement and may require the words “Paid Advertisement” in any ad. Publication of advertisements does not constitute endorsement of products, services or ideas promoted therein.

STAY CONNECTED The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota, FL 34232 MORE INFORMATION: Gisele Pintchuck at gpintchuck@jfedsrq.org or 941.706.0029 REGISTER AT .com/jfedsrq

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January 2020

FEDERATION NEWS

People of the Book explores the Jewish experience Et By Gayle Guynup

n January, The Jewish Federation a bat mitzvah for my book!” AudiFriedman Theater on The Larry & of Sarasota-Manatee will host two ences get a fully dramatized mini piece Mary Greenspon Family Campus for People of the Book events, showof theater, followed by Jewish Life (582 Mccasing different aspects of Jewish life. a Q&A with the author. Intosh Road, Sarasota). On Monday, January 6, GrammyIn White Hot Grief PaBrickman is a retired nominated artist and author Alexandra rade, Silber says she oral surgeon, investiSilber will blend musical stylings with “unzipped” her sternum gative journalist and spoken words from her book in a caband returned to the days former president of the aret-style performance. The renowned just before and after Jewish Federation of star of Broadway and London’s West her father died, “digGreater Atlanta, who, in End stages will perform at 7:30 p.m. at ging deep into the slow 2006, uncovered docuthe Riverview Performing Arts Center process of mourning, as ments that strongly sug(1 Ram Way, Sarasota). Tickets are $25. well as the almost surregested that he, and many Silber is author of After Anatevka, al experience of it.” The others, had been failed which picks up where the Fiddler on book juxtaposes piercout of Emory’s dental S. Perry Brickman the Roof story ends. Her latest book, ing passages with snapshots of happier school because they were Jewish. White Hot Grief Parade, is her memoir moments from Silber’s life. Brickman talks about returning about the loss of her Asked which process to the university as an investigative beloved father and she enjoys more, writjournalist and historian, and uncoverthe restorative powers ing or performing, Siling the truth about his experience. “I of family and friendber noted that, “Theatre am not a professional on the subject of ships. is a social art form, one anti-Semitism,” Brickman said. “But Silber says the meant to be created and what I see and hear and read leads me idea for this musiconsumed socially. Writto believe that anti-Semitism is much cal event came about ing is the exact opposite more virulent and dangerous in today’s when a friend and – an art meant to be creinstitutions of higher learning than colleague suggested ated and consumed in that which we faced 75 years ago.” taking eight chapters solitude. I enjoy both art from After Anatevka, forms equally,” she said, and giving each to a “the Yin and the Yang, Broadway composerboth sides of myself.” Alexandra Silber lyricist team, which In a complete change would write an original song based of pace, on Wednesday, January 29 at on that chapter. The songs would 10:30 a.m., S. Perry Brickman, author be intertwined with passages Silber of Extracted: Unmasking Rampant would read from the novel. She deAnti-Semitism in America’s Higher scribes it as “a huge celebration – like Education, will speak at the Beatrice

Held in partnership with the Jewish Book Council, “People of the Book” features programs on a variety of topics that are sure to delight, educate and intrigue audiences. Future speakers will include: Ariel Burger, Witness, February 13, 7:00 p.m., Beatrice Friedman Theater, $18 Josh Frank, Giraffes on Horseback Salad, March 8, 7:00 p.m., Beatrice Friedman Theater Jack Fairweather, The Volunteer: One Man, an Underground Army, and Sarah Rose, D-Day Girls: The Spies Who Armed the Resistance, Sabotaged the Nazis and Helped Win World War II, April 21, 10:30 a.m., Beatrice Friedman Theater Individual tickets (other than Silber and Burger) are $10. To purchase tickets, visit jfedsrq.org/books. For more information, please contact Jeremy Lisitza, Director of Innovation and Volunteer Engagement, at 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org.

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THURSDAY JANUARY 30, 2020 10:30 am The Jewish Federation of Sarasota Manatee • Zell Room on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota

Jews of Florida book lecture and signing by Marcia Jo Zerivitz. This first comprehensive history of the Jews of Florida from colonial times to the present is a sweeping tapestry of voices spanning centuries. This rich narrative— accompanied by 700 images, most rarely seen—is the result of three-plus decades of grassroots research by author Marcia Jo Zerivitz, giving readers an incomparable look at the long and crucial history of Jews in Florida.

This event is free and refreshments will be served.

Please RSVP at jfedsrq.org/events or contact Brieana Duckett-Graves at bdgraves@jfedsrq.org or 941.552.6305

January 2020

FEDERATION NEWS

e Ethan Zohn shares his message of survival By Gayle Guynup

than Zohn’s life story is one of Zohn grew up in Lexington, MasJewsurvival. Zohn is a former prosachusetts, and with his parents and the fessional soccer player, twotwo brothers attended a conservative vatime cancer survivor, winner of the temple, Temple Emunah. His father delost his battle with cancer when Ethan nces.reality television show Survivor: Africa and its $1 million prize, and co-founder was only 14 years old. of Grassroot Soccer, which uses soccer “That was the first time I got a real uary taste of what community is – as the manto raise money and awareness about adolescent health issues. Today, he Jewish community reached out and adds motivational speaking to that list embraced us in our time of loss.” back of accomplishments. He attended Vassar College in BeaZohn will be the guest speaker at Poughkeepsie, New York, where he two events for The Jewish Federamajored in biology and pre-med. “I teer: tion of Sarasota-Manatee on Sunday, was going to be a doctor, a lawyer or a rmy, disappointment,” he said, laughing. TheFebruary 9 at the Beatrice Friedman Soccer, he said, changed those nce,Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life plans. lped He moved to Ha0:30(582 McIntosh Road, waii and, as a walker Sarasota). The first event, on, became back-up than at 5:00 p.m., will be goalkeeper for the purHawaii Tsunami. He oks.for teens and young adults. Zohn will then moved to Zimbantact share how he won Surbwe, where he played ovafor the Highlanders , atvivor: Africa, which Football Club. rg. was the third season of the popular realAfter returning ity television show; to the United States, how he survived his Ethan was “in beteenage years; and tween life choices,” his personal conwhen he sent in a vinection to Judaism deo to Survivor: Afriand Israel. Zohn will ca and, out of 80,000 Ethan Zohn also lead the group who applied, was sein a Survivor-themed game challenge. lected to compete. “I loved the whole Those who attend the dinner following experience,” he said, including taking his lecture are invited to stay for his home the $1 million paycheck when community presentation for free. he won. “I was thinking of starting a At 7:00 p.m., Zohn will speak to new reality show called Who Wants to members of the community on naviMarry a Nice Jewish Millionaire?, but gating his connection to Judaism and to that didn’t pan out.” Israel; how he survived cancer – twice; With his winnings, Ethan started and how he moved from being a sole Grassroot Soccer, helping young peo“Survivor” to becoming a humanitarple around the world deal with adoian and philanthropist. The cost of the lescent health issues, including HIV presentation is $18 per person. and AIDS. To date, 2.3 million adoles-

cents in 50 countries have been through the program. His life took an unexpected turn in 2009 when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. After going through chemotherapy, radiation and a bone marrow transplant, Ethan went cancer free for 20 months only to have it return. “I then received a stem-cell implant from my brother Lee, and have been cancer free ever since,” he said.

Today he is married to Lisa, who was not Jewish, but converted before they were married in 2016. “Life today is pretty wonderful,” he said. For more information about the events, please contact Teen & Family Program Coordinator Andrea Eiffert at aeiffert@jfedsrq.com or 941.552.6308. For tickets, please visit www.jfedsrq. org/events.

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January 2020

FEDERATION NEWS

Save the date for Federation’s annual Jewish Film Festival By Jeremy Lisitza, Director of Innovation and Volunteer Engagement

or all you movie fans, The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee’s 11th annual Jewish Film Festival takes place March 11-22, 2020. The Festival, which is chaired by Cheryl Shapiro and Bunny Skirboll, will feature 18 new films from around the world, many of which are regional premieres. Films will be screened at four locations in the community. Opening Night kicks off with Fiddler: A Miracle of Miracles. The documentary details the origins behind one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals, and includes intimate interviews with the show’s creators, revealing the tremendous success and worldwide impact of Fiddler on the Roof. It shows

the true wonder of wonders and miracle that is Fiddler to audiences worldwide, which for the last half century, have claimed the story as their own. The documentary explores a variety of international productions of the show,

detailing how individuals of many cultures see themselves in the residents of Anatevka. Our newly added Centerpiece feature, which will be held in the middle of the festival, is Golda’s Balcony, The Film. This is the story of Golda Meir’s

When Markus saw signs of the same disturbing trends returning to the Netherlands, she left the land her family called home for centuries. Never Again Is Now is Evelyn’s story and her warning to the world: “Back in 1940 we could have stopped the evil threat but we didn’t. Now we need to stop the evil while we still can.” That’s why “Never Again” is now! Rounding out our Jewish Film Festival are the following amazing films: Crescendo – World-famous conductor Eduard Sporck accepts the job to create an Israeli-Palestinian youth orchestra. The young musicians from both sides – having grown up in a state of war, suppression or constant risk of terrorist attacks – are able to form a team. Will Sporck succeed and make the young people forget their hatred, at least for the three weeks until the concert? With the first glimmer of hope, however, the political opponents of the orchestra show them how strong they are. Shoelaces – The film tells the story of a complicated relationship between an aging father and his special-needs son, whom he abandoned while still a young boy. Reuben’s kidneys are failing, and his son Gadi wants to donate one of his own kidneys to help save his father’s life. Through the film’s portrayal of a relationship full of love, rejection and co-dependency, it manages to shed some light and question the importance of human life and human connection, and if life is even possible without either one of them. Leona – Ariela, a young Syrian Jewish artist from Mexico City, finds herself torn between her family and her forbidden love with a non-Jewish man. He allows her to discover the world outside the bubble of her community, leading to an important transi-

rise from a Russian schoolgirl to American schoolteacher to a leader of international politics. A rare, multi-camera shoot from the play’s original run was recently unearthed and assembled into a riveting motion picture. In this film, Golda’s life has been transformed into a cinematic event of overwhelming power and inspirational triumph. The Festival’s Closing Event presents Never Again Is Now. This compelling documentary investigates the troubling global rise of anti-Semitism in Europe through the eyes of Evelyn Markus, who was raised in Holland by parents having witnessed the growing anti-Jewish violence of the 1940s.

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tion in her adult life. The feature film is the directorial debut of Isaac Cherem, who also co-wrote the film with Naian González Norvind. Love in Suspenders – Tami is a widow in her 60s and Beno is a widower in his 70s. Tami is optimistic, always smiling and still talking to her husband who has been dead for a few years. Beno is tougher on the outside, but also still suffering from the loss of his wife. Notwithstanding their differences in lifestyle and personality, and their interfering offspring and neighbors, they eventually fall in love. Murer: Anatomy of a Trial – This transfixing courtroom drama depicts one of history’s most shameful miscarriages of justice. The prestigious politician and large-scale farmer Franz Murer, responsible for the Ghetto of Vilnius as SS leader and Nazi Party functionary from 1941-1943, stands trial in Graz, Austria. Survivors arrive to testify and obtain justice, to no avail. Papa – A young man raised by wealthy adoptive Jewish parents in Beverly Hills decides that he is ready to finally meet his biological parents. He faces disappointment upon learning of the death of his biological mother. His biological father, meanwhile, resides in a psychiatric care unit. Prosecuting Evil – This is the story of Ben Ferencz, the last surviving Nuremberg prosecutor. After witnessing Nazi concentration camps shortly after liberation, Ferencz became lead prosecutor in the Einsatzgruppen case at Nuremberg, which has been called the biggest murder trial in history. Ferencz went on to advocate for restitution for Jewish victims of the Holocaust and later for the establishment of the International Criminal Court.

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January 2020

FEDERATION NEWS

Jewish Film Festival...continued from previous page Rescue Bus 300 – This intense to each other is put to the ultimate test. docudrama is based on the 1984 hiThe Passengers – In Ethiopia, there is a community of more than m isjacking of a bus in which 41 passen9,000 Jews. They speak Hebrew, keep rem,gers and a bus driver were attacked and eventually held captive by terrorists. kosher and have relatives in Israel, yet aian The film elucidates the crazy story of Israel continues to deny their appeals for Aliyah. The film follows the amazis athe hijacking and aftermath from a passenger’s perspective, highlighting the ing journey of two young men, Dewidremarkable acts of heroism that took moz and Gezi, on a fateful mission in stic, America. When only one of the pair of o herplace and the relatable, emotional impact engraved in the memories of those best friends is unexpectedly approved few involved. to immigrate to Israel, they must side, The Accountant of Auschwitz – In reconcile the decision and their hopes ss of and dreams while facing an uncertain ffer-2015, 94-year-old former German SS officer Oskar Gröning went on trial in future. and The Spy Behind Home Plate – eigh-his home country, charged with complicity in the murder of 300,000 Jews This story of Morris “Moe” Berg focuses on a little-known Jewish hero. Thisat Auschwitz in 1944. The film is a gripping look at the race against time From the streets of Newark to five picts Major League teams during baseball’s mis-to prosecute the last living Nazi war criminals before it’s too late. From Golden Age, to his secret life spying for ious Nuremberg to the new alt-right, this the OSS during WWII, Berg’s improbranz able story is told with rare historical o offilm constructs a stark reminder that Party ands rrive vail. d by s in eady ents. ning footage and revealing interviews with ther.those who forget history are doomed to family and an All-Star roster from the , re-repeat it. worlds of history, sports and spycraft. The Keeper – The film tells the exUnkept Secrets – Two Jewish Orsto-traordinary love story between a young thodox women refuse to participate vingEnglish woman and a German POW in the cover-up of pedophilia in their ness-who, together, overcome prejudice, community. Both women find themortlypublic hostility and personal tragedy. selves paying a heavy price for “washleadIt’s the true story of Bert Trautmann, ing dirty laundry in public” and taking casea German soldier and prisoner of war the story to the secular authorities. alledwho, against a backdrop of British Shana, who works for an organization tory.post-war protest and prejudice, secures that promotes change and awareness, res-the position of Goalkeeper at Mantries to help them. Holo-chester City Soccer Club, and in doing Why the Jews? – The stunning nt ofso becomes a footballer icon. But fate accomplishments of the Jews raise will soon twist the knife for Bert and a question no film has dared ask beMargaret when their love and loyalty

fore. How do they do it? Some of the world’s most prominent thinkers tackle a mystery shrouded in ignorance and prejudice. They tear back the curtain on a taboo, and draw a startling link between a people’s achievements and the darkest hours in its history. Working Woman – Life at work becomes unbearable for Orna. Her boss appreciates and promotes her, while making inappropriate advances. Her husband struggles to keep his new restaurant afloat, and Orna becomes the

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et h s d .

main breadwinner for their three children. When her world is finally shattered, she must pull herself together to fight, in her own way, for her job and a sense of self-worth. Festival tickets will go on sale at the end of January and all information can be found online at jfedsrq.org/ jff20. To become a sponsor or for more information about the 2020 Jewish Film Festival, contact me at jlisitza@ jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2113.

For more than 60 community events in January, see the Jewish Happenings section in this issue.

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10A

January 2020

FEDERATION NEWS

N R

Staff

MoMENtum dads arriving in Tzfat

Chris Malkin and Jeremy Schwimmer on the trails of Ein Bobeck

Our full group at the Kotel: Back row - Howard Tevlowitz, Ben Hanan, Jon Hoffberger, Jeremy Schwimmer, Eric Pressman, Josh Green, Chris Malkin. Front row: Robert Knego, Gary Kurnov, Michael Gordon, David Sax, Steve Fineman, Ryan Ackerman and Robert Stroud

IT'S DAD'S TURN! 2019 MoMEN tum Trip to Israel!

ur Sarasota-Manatee fathers joined the MoMENtum Trip to Israel with over 200 other

fathers from around the U.S. They attended empowering workshops, explored spiritual Tzfat, visited an army base and met with IDF soldiers, experienced the warmth of the Dead Sea, the beauty of Masada and discovered how to connect more deeply with themselves, their

Chris Malkin proudly carrying a Torah from the Malkin Family at Masada

Ryan Ackerman, Jon Hoffberger, Chris Malkin, Jeremy Schwimmer, Robert Stroud and Andrew Marlowe enjoying Tel Aviv's night life

families, and their communities.

Our SRQ MoMENtum fathers in Latron meeting with IDF soldiers

Dead Sea floating

Robert Knego and Robert Stroud at their Bar Mitzvah ceremony at Masada

All muddied-up in the Dead Sea: Steve Fineman, Michael Gordon, Robert Stroud, David Sax, Josh Green, Robert Knego, Eric Pressman, Ben Hanan and Gary Kurnov

At the Western Wall: Howard Tevlowitz, Steve Fineman, David Sax, Jeremy Schwimmer, Josh Green, Gary Kurnov, Ben Hanan, Eric Pressman, Robert Knego and Michael Gordon

Ben Hanan, Eric Pressman, David Sax and Josh Green at the Western Wall

MoMENtum dads communities enjoying Tzfat

January 2020

FEDERATION NEWS

11A

Namesake Israel Center donors Robert and Esther Heller honored Staff Report

n November 12, The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee was proud to honor Robert and Esther Heller at the Association of Fundraising Professionals of Southwest Florida’s annual National Philanthropy Day luncheon. The Hellers are long-time supporters and namesakes of the Robert and Esther Heller Community Relations Committee (CRC), formerly known as the Heller Advocacy Initiative. Last year, Bob and Esther created The Robert and Esther Heller Israel Center as the flagship Israel program and learning center on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life. The vision of the Heller Israel Center is simple: to bring Israel to

Sarasota in new and improved ways, encouraging the building of relationships with Israel, Israeli businesses and, more importantly, individual Israelis. The Heller Israel Center will be a crucial educational resource for the entire Sarasota-Manatee community and beyond. Federation CEO Howard Tevlowitz says, “With the Hellers’ generosity, this dream is now becoming a reality as we move forward with our capital campaign. We are honored to be the recipient of the Hellers’ great big heart.” For more information on the Robert and Esther Heller Community Relations Committee, please contact Jessi Sheslow at jsheslow@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2109.

Robert and Esther Heller (seated) with Iris Starr, Jessi Sheslow, Ilene Fox and Richard Bergman

Zerivitz to speak on “The Jews of Florida” By Gayle Guynup

arcia Jo Zerivitz, Founding images – gives readers an overview Executive Director of the of the Jewish influence and impact on Jewish Museum of FloridaFlorida’s history. FIU, spent 30-plus years doing unZerivitz moved to Orlando in the precedented grassroots mid-1960s and said research on the history she started “asking of Jews in Florida. a lot of questions – She will be presentWho were the first ing a lecture and book Jews? What did they signing on Thursday, do for a living? Who January 30 at 10:30 a.m. started the Jewin the Zell room on The ish organizations? Larry & Mary GreenWhat contributions spon Family Campus for had the Jewish comJewish Life (580 McInmunity made? – and tosh Road, Sarasota). found there were no “The Jews of Florianswers.” da” is the first compreShe soon realhensive history of Jews ized that Florida had Marcia Jo Zerivitz in Florida, from colonial a unique challenge. times to the present. This rich narraThough it is home to the third-largest tive – accompanied by 700 rarely seen Jewish population in the nation, “there

was no depth of generations as in many other states.” It was in the 1980s that she decided to focus on collecting and preserving, for future generations, the story of the Jewish people in Florida. Zerivitz said she has been conducting research for 35 years, traveling 250,000 miles around the state, collecting photographs, stories and artifacts about Jews since they first came to Florida in 1763. The collection was originally for the MOSAIC Jewish Life in Florida exhibit that traveled to 13 cities from 1990 to 1994. “The decision to create a museum was made

280 kosher characters

in 1992, when I was designated the founding director,” she said. Asked why the preservation of these stories is so important today, Zerivitz said, “In recent years, with anti-Semitism becoming so virulent, it became even more important to document what Jews have contributed to the quality of life for all Floridians and beyond.” The event is free and refreshments will be served. For information, visit www.jfedsrq.org/events. To RSVP, call Brieana Duckett-Graves at 941.552.6305.

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12A

January 2020

Major Gifts Major Gifts Dinner

FEDERATION NEWS

Save the date

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2020

AN EVENING WITH

Lion of Judah & Pomegranate

deborah lipstadt Tuesday, February 25, 2020 5:00pm

L U N C H E O N

Sarasota Municipal Auditorium DR. DEBORAH E. LIPSTADT,

Dorot professor of Holocaust Studies at Emory University in Atlanta, has published and taught about the Holocaust for close to 40 years. The author of six books and numerous articles, Lipstadt is probably most widely known because of the libel lawsuit brought against her in 1996 by David Irving for having called him a Holocaust denier. Irving was then arguably the world’s leading denier. Join us to hear Professor Lipstadt’s thoughts on anti-Semitism in today’s world.

Sarasota

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Alina Spaulding Sarasota Yacht Club Sarasota, FL 11:30 AM

Dinner Co-Chairs Nancy Jacobson and Hannah Weinberg

Couvert will include reserved seating at the community lecture featuring Deborah Lipstadt immediately following dinner. Lead Sponsor

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From the Ukraine to the U.S.— Alina’s miracle story CO-CHAIRS: BARBARA ACKERMAN AND SEPI ACKERMAN

To learn more about the Lion of Judah and Pomegranate divisions, please contact Ilene Fox at 941.343.2111 or ifox@jfedsrq.org.

Minimum gift of $6,000 to the 2020 development efforts of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is required.

For more information, please contact Gisele Pintchuck at 941.706.0029 or gpintchuck@jfedsrq.org.

UPCOMING

EVENTS

jfedsrq.org/events

2020

Monday, January 6 – Tuesday, April 21 PEOPLE OF THE BOOK AUTHOR SERIES Monday, January 13 FEDERATION’S NEWCOMERS EVENT • SARASOTA Thursday, January 16, 2020 LION OF JUDAH & POMEGRANATE LUNCHEON featuring Alina Spaulding Tuesday, February 25, 2020 MAJOR GIFTS EVENT featuring Deborah Lipstadt Tuesday, February 25, 2020 COMMUNITY LECTURE featuring Deborah Lipstadt Wednesday, March 11 – Sunday, March 22 11TH ANNUAL JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL Thursday, March 26, 2020 WOMEN’S PASSOVER CELEBRATION

January 2020

FEDERATION NEWS

13A

The Jewish News: 50 years in the making By Logan Marr, Communications & Marketing Coordinator

ith the start of this new decade, we mark the beginning of the 50th year of The Jewish News! This is a major milestone, not just for The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, but for the local community as a whole. This paper has been a staple in Jewish homes for the past 50 years, and its continued success exemplifies the fact that our community is not just simply surviving, but thriving! The publication has evolved quite a bit since it was first printed in 1971. It was originally titled The Chronicle and was typically only four pages. In 2004, the paper was renamed to Sarasota-Manatee Jewish News, and when the Federation rebranded in 2008, the title changed once again, to The Jewish News of Sarasota Manatee. Today, an average issue of The Jewish

News is about 44 pages – ranging from 32 pages in the slower months to 52 pages during season. While much has changed in the publication throughout the years, including the name and title, our strong passion for Jewish communities locally, nationally and abroad remains unaltered. When asked about the evolution of the paper, Ted Epstein said, “Having been the managing editor of The Jewish News since mid-2009, I have seen the tremendous growth and scope of The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee, the Jewish community, the amount of programming available, and the richness of Jewish culture in the area. This growth, as well as the Federation’s outreach to the Jewish community and the community at large, has been reflected in the pages of the newspaper. “The Jewish News has changed

alongside the needs of the community, with expanded coverage of Federation news, its community focus, Jewish interest articles, commentary pieces, Israel-related news and a focus on youth. The Jewish Happenings section typically has between 50 and 75 Jewish-related events each month. The newspaper truly does celebrate Jewish life in Sarasota and Manatee counties, Israel and the world.” We couldn’t have such a successful paper without you, our dedicated readers. So thank you, Sarasota-Manatee, for constantly embracing Jewish life for the past 50 years. Here’s to 50 more! For additional information on The Jewish News, contact me at lmarr@ jfedsrq.org or 941.706.0036. The Jewish News, 2019 Published by the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation Klingenstein Jewish Center, 580 S. McIntosh Rd., Sarasota, FL 34232

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID MANASOTA FL PERMIT 167

VOLUME 32, NUMBER 19, DECEMBER 17, 2003 - JANUARY 13, 2004

Defying E.U. ban, Jewish groups post report on anti-Semitic attacks By Toby Axelrod

Standing with Israel in Israel See page 3

BERLIN (JTA) – In an act of defiance against the European Union, the main Jewish body in Europe has released an unpublished report that found rising anti-Semitism among Muslims in Europe. Critics who want the study made public said the Vienna-based E.U. Monitoring Center on Racism and Xenophobia was not prepared to deal with the sensitive subject of anti-Semitism among Muslims, who constitute Europe’s largest minority. The E.U. department that commissioned the report said the data was too flawed to publish. “We cannot accept that a study be confiscated on the grounds that it could create tensions,” Serge Cwajgenbaum, secretary

general of the European Jewish Congress, told JTA in a telephone interview, explaining the decision by EJC President Coby Benatoff to release the report without E.U. permission. The furor that emerged in November around the E.U. decision to withhold the report reflects increasing concern among European Jewish groups for their safety. It also raises questions about the transparency of an organization that is meant to fight discrimination against all minorities in Europe. The report was prepared last year for the Monitoring Center, but it was not released after its completion in February, and the Monitoring Center disclosed recently that it was preparing a new report to replace the first one. Those who released the report into the public arena insist they are not trying to spread

The EUMC responds In a media release Dec. 2, Chair Bob Purkiss and Director Beate Winkler of the European Monitoring Center on Racism and Xenophobia asserted the following: “Reacting to allegations that the European Monitoring Centre on Racism and Xenophobia (EUMC) ‘shelved’ an anti-Semitism report, the EUMC would like to clarify the situation as follows: ♦ The EUMC is currently facing a challenge of its credibility and there is danger that this could destabilize the Centre and draw it away from its core business. This presents the strongest challenge for the EUMC since its foundation in 1997 and clearly indicates how important and how sensitive the work of the Centre is. ♦ The EUMC has always concentrated on its work and its core competence. Being worried because of the high number of incidents in some Member States, in April 2002 the EUMC initiated an interim data collection on anti-Semitism in the 15 Member States for the period of May and June 2002. The data obtained had been the basis for the draft anti-Semitism report done by the Berlin Centre of Research on anti-Semitism in Europe. However, it became clear that the time period covered was too short, that the data was not comparable and sufficient enough. ♦ Directly after having obtained the results of the interim data collection on anti-Semitism of May and June 2002, the EUMC decided to have a special focus on anti-Semitism in 2002 and 2003. The data collected in this period from 2002 till October 2003 will be a basis for a new report on anti-Semitism in Europe. This report will also include the results of interviews conducted by the EUMC with representatives of the Jewish Community and it will feature recommendations for addressing anti-Semitism in Europe. The report should be finalized [sic] and published in the first quarter of 2004.”

Happy Chanukah! See page 5

COEXISTENCE WOW fundraiser See page 9

Inside

THIS ISSUE

News in brief .................................2 Message from the executive director .....3 2004 Lion of Judah Luncheon..............4 These we honor ..............................4 Chanukah - ‘Festival of Lights’ ............5 Community focus ............................6 Agency directory .............................6 Jewish happenings ..........................8 Temple directory ........................... 10 Organization directory .................... 11 Film: ‘Monsieur Ibrahim’ ................. 13 Life cycle .................................... 14 Classifieds .................................. 15

JOIN THE

Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation

ONLINE!

Check out our Web site: www.smjf.org

The Chronicle, 1971

The Chronicle, 1978

The Chronicle, 1994

Flanzer JCC presents th 7 Annual Gala

The Flanzer Jewish Community Center’s 7th Annual Gala will honor all of its Presidents, past and present. This prestigious list includes: Scott Gordon, Alan Loring, Daniel Schwartz, Gina Krinsky, Elizabeth Klaber, Judy Weinstein and current Board Chair, Richard Blumenthal. As a group, the JCC presidents represent a broad spectrum of Sarasota. They are professional people, all highly respected in their individual fields. They have served on the boards of both Jewish and community cultural and service organizations. Their commitment to the Flanzer Jewish Community Center, both during their terms of office and at present, is seen every day in what the JCC has accomplished and in all the JCC’s future plans for growth. The gala will take place Sunday, January 25 at 6:30 p.m. at Michael’s on East (1212 East Ave. S., Sarasota). Highlights will include a live magic show, a live and silent auction, great food and dancing to the music of local band, Mainstream. Event organizers hope to raise $140,000 for the Flanzer JCC’s Children’s Scholarship Fund, which ensures that no family will be denied daycare, after school enrichment programs and summer camp due to financial hardship. Event chairs are Barbara Katz and Honey Salzman. The Flanzer JCC is seeking sponsors for the event, as well as items for the live and silent auctions. Please call 378.5568 for more information.

fear. “Most of the Muslims in Europe, and particularly in France, are not anti-Semitic,” said Francois Zimeray, a French member of the E.U. Parliament. “They are looking for integration for themselves and they are looking for peace in the Middle East.” But, he said, “This study shows how deep the link is in Europe between criticism of Israel and anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism. It also shows how the Israeli-Palestinian conflict fuels anti-Semitism and how this conflict is used by some to organize the revival of old European Christian anti-Semitic myths.” Cwajgenbaum said other attempts to address the problem of growing anti-Semitism had failed. “We have approached governments on a national level and on a European level,” he said. “And in spite of good will and good intentions, the result is that Jews are still being threatened, which means that more has to be done. And this is one of the reasons why,” he said, the EJC “decided to circulate this document.” The report, “Manifestations of AntiSemitism in the European Union,” prepared by Berlin’s Center for Research on Anti-Semitism for the Monitoring Center, has been withheld for the past 11 months. The Monitoring Center insists it withheld the report on the basis of quality. It is preparing a fuller report to be released in early 2004. But critics suspect the real reason for withholding the report is political. The research team that prepared the report, Juliane Wetzel and Werner Bergmann, has said as much. Finished just before the war in Iraq began last spring, the report found an increase in anti-Semitic crimes committed by Europeans of Arab or Muslim background, as well as by some left-wing extremists and anti-globalization activists. The European Jewish Congress would not say how it obtained a copy of the report, which it released in late November in English on the official Web site of the French Jewish community, www.crif.org. It was expected to be available on the Web sites of Jewish organizations in all 15 E.U. member countries. Continued on page 2

CRC presents ‘Dialogue on Israel’

Loring

Blumenthal

Klaber

Krinsky

Schwartz

Weinstein

Gordon

When it comes to policy and politics in Israel, it can be difficult for even fellow Jews and Jewish organizations to agree. Two organizations whose viewpoints are, at times, diametrically opposed are the Mort Klein, Zionist Organization of America and Zionist Organization of America Americans for Peace Now. In the spirit of open dialogue, the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation’s Community Relations Council (CRC) presents “A Dialogue on Israel” on Thursday, January 8 at 7:00 p.m. National Mark Rosenblum, Jewish leaders Mort Americans for Klein (President, Peace Now Zionist Organization of America) and Mark Rosenblum (Founder and Policy Director, Americans for Peace Now) will discuss the situation in Israel. This event takes place at the Flanzer JCC’s Beatrice Friedman Theater (582 S. McIntosh Rd., Sarasota). Admission is free, but reservations are required. Call 371.4546, ext. 153 to reserve your spot.

Sarasota-Manatee Jewish News, 2004

The Aviva Concert Series Celebrate Classical Music at Aviva $erformed by local Sarasota artists!

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January 9th at 1:30 PM

March 5th at 1:30 PM

The Orfeo Trio

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February 6th at 11:00 AM

April 2nd at 11:00 AM

Gayle Martin

Marco Jimenez

May 14th at 1:30 PM John Grau, Caitlin Mohr & Gloria Cook

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The Jewish News is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, committed advertisers and The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

14A

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ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION

Celebrating Your Legacy SAVE THE DATE

Thursday, April 2, 6:30 pm at Michael’s On East with

Keynote Speaker Rabbi Daniel Cohen

Rabbi Cohen shares his unique blend of wisdom and spiritual insight. He is the author of What Will They Say About You When You Are Gone? Creating a Life of Legacy, and Senior Rabbi of Congregation Agudath Sholom in New England.

Event Chair: Nelle S. Miller

QUESTIONS? Contact Gisele Pintchuck 941.707.0029 or gpintchuck@jfedsrq.org

FEDERATION NEWS

Volunteer Spotlight The perfect equation By Sandy Chase

dina Schwartz has created her Jewish holidays. perfect equation: “Female students,” Adina recalls, V=C+P+RE “would remark that as their role modWhether she is V = Volunteering el, I convinced them that they could or it’s a Vocation, her Commitment, achieve success. Other students were Passion and Rewarding Experience are inspired that immigrants could realize constant. their dreams.” Adina has repeatedly demonstratAdina explains why she didn’t ed how this equation applies to her as embrace Judaism until she moved to a volunteer at The Jewish Federation Sarasota two years ago, after retiring. of Sarasota-Manatee or as an eco“I was too busy raising a daughter and nomics professor. pursuing my teaching career to join a The Chair of the May 2019 Yom temple or volunteer, although occaHa’atzmaut (Israeli Independence sionally my daughter and I attended Day) celebration, and volunteer for Jewish events in Wisconsin – hardly a several Federation events, Adina says, commitment.” “Volunteering is my reward. Fulfilling Captivated by Sarasota, Adina my life, it helps me reconnect to Judaism while contributing to Jewish life in Sarasota.” Teen and Family Program Coordinator Andrea Eiffert, who worked closely with Adina on the community-wide celebration, attests to Adina’s unwavering commitment. “Adina immediately accepted the invitation to co-chair the event, ultimately becoming the chair when her partner couldn’t continue. Adina’s enthusiasm and positive attitude were infectious. She cared deeply about every detail of the event.” Adina Schwartz with Federation President Randon Carvel Adina’s words reflect says, “The rich culture and majestic her commitment, insights and collabsunsets are phenomenal. After meetorative spirit: “I worked closely with ing with Linda Silver, the Federation’s Andrea and Sydney Harlow, Program retired Chief Human Resources OffiDirector for Gulf Coast Hillel, helping cer, at a volunteer recruitment event, I to establish the framework and logisknew I wanted to reconnect with Jewtics.” Winking, Adina says, “It’s not ish culture and the community. I was every day that the Federation invites ready to plant roots.” camels.” Linda says, “A special woman, Excitedly, she says, “You should’ve Adina’s deeply committed to her Juseen the camel races and savored such daism. As an Israeli and former IDF foods like falafel, baklava and Israeli member, she’s passionate about Israel. pastries. We also had a shuk, where She’s done a wonderful job chairing guests could buy Israeli delicacies and Yom Ha’atzmaut and dedicates her products. Israeli music, dances and time to Just Reel Films and the Jewish self-defense demonstrations were outFilm Festival.” standing.” Jeremy Lisitza, Director of InShunning credit for success, Adinovation and Volunteer Engagement, na says, “It wouldn’t have happened and Rosann Black, Chair of Just Reel without Andrea’s guidance, Sydney’s Films, agree that whether it’s welcomsupport and our Jewish community ing guests, introducing films or usherpartners’ exchange of ideas. Attendee ing, Adina does it with all her heart. satisfaction is paramount, and they Adina is exuberant when talking loved the event.” about the Federation. “Everyone welBorn in Bucharest, Romania, durcomes me at my ‘home away from ing Communist rule, Adina – shrouded home.’” in fear – covertly celebrated Jewish Teaching online also enriches her holidays. Having waited 12 years, she life. Adina’s email address – combinand her family were finally allowed ing econ with fun – gives insight into to immigrate to Israel. Seeing great her primary hobby. “Helping students promise, Israeli educators promoted understand how the U.S. and world Adina from the 8th to 10th grade. Upon economies work rewards me personalhigh-school graduation, she served ly. I love when students find economics two years in the Israel Defense Forces exciting.” Other hobbies include read(IDF). Having earned her undergraduing, exercising and walking with Lily, ate degree in economics from Hebrew her dog. University, she moved to the United Adina says, “My father gave me States to continue her education. my freedom – telling me to do someAdina remembers her graduate thing about it.” studies at the University of WisconsinV = C + P + R E proves that she Milwaukee. “I worked as a teaching ashas. sistant to pay for tuition until I became If you are interested in volunteering, an economics professor for Lakeland there are many ways to contribute and University in Wisconsin, associated be part of the volunteer life at the Fedwith the United Church of Christ.” eration. For more information, please The only Jew – and woman – in contact Jeremy Lisitza, Director of Inthe business-administration division, novation and Volunteer Engagement, Adina explains how she’d share highat 941.343.2113 or jlisitza@jfedsrq.org. lights of Judaism, offering her students apples and honey and other foods for

FAMILY jfedsrq.org

THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.

The past is behind us, but the future is in our hands

TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM

15A

PROUDLY PRESENTS

By Bette Zaret, Chair, Butterflies of Hope and Remembrance

n November 7, the Annual educators in the program. Each shared “Night of Broken Glass” Comher personal impressions of the group’s memoration at The Larry & trip to Poland, where they were offered Mary Greenspon Family Campus for comprehensive seminars with a special Jewish Life took place with a crowd of Holocaust studies lens, enriched with close to 200 attendees. academic literature and direct appliThe event began with a warm cation to classroom instruction. Both welcome from Event Chair Ronnie confirmed that they now have a more Riceberg, who also gave a brief inthorough understanding of the Holotroduction to what the Nazi press eucaust as well as effective tools through phemistically called “Kristallnacht.” which to share their new perspectives This was followed by a moving and with colleagues and students. thoughtful invocation by Rabbi Samantha Kahn of Temple Sinai, who asked us all to recognize and pay tribute to the Holocaust survivors, the concentration camp liberators, and their respective families, who attended the event. Dr. Andre Krauss The Bay Area Cantorial Association sings for a full house Members from the Bay Area Canpresented a review of the historical torial Association enchanted the audievents that led up to this fateful night, ence with moving and inspirational which many historians consider the besongs, including “El Maleh Rachaginning of the Holocaust. mim” and “The Song of Butterflies of As chair of the Butterflies of Hope Hope.” and Remembrance project, I introTo close out the evening, I led the duced the audience to this year-long audience in a Hands Against Hate™ initiative comprised of special events Rally, whereby everyone held hands in and Holocaust and genocide educasolidarity and, during a moment of sitional programming, which commemlence, remembered all who were murorates the 75th anniversary of the end dered in the Holocaust, were killed in of WWII and the liberation of the Nazi any genocide and who died from any concentration camps. act of hate. Then, in unison, attendees Teachers Leslie Ruben from Compledged their commitment to stand up munity Day School and Clare McVey and resist all expressions of discrimifrom Cardinal Mooney Catholic High nation, persecution and hatred – helpSchool, who participated in the new ing to make our community a kinder, Classrooms Without Borders trip to safer and more inclusive one, now and Poland, which was sponsored by The for generations to come. Jewish Federation of Sarasota-ManWe hope to see you at our next atee, spoke about their experience. The event, International Holocaust Retwo were among five Sarasota-area membrance Day, on Sunday, January 26. To learn more, visit jfedsrq.org/ events. For information about upcoming Butterflies of Hope and Remembrance programs throughout 2020, visit butterfliesofhope.com. All Holocaust commemoration events are under the auspices of the Heller Community Relations Committee. To learn more, contact Jessi Sheslow, Director of Community ReClare McVey, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School teacher, lations, at jsheslow@jfed and Leslie Ruben, Community Day School teacher srq.org or 941.343.2109.

TY.

January 2020

FEDERATION NEWS

LEST WE FORGET Anti-Semitism & Holocaust Awareness Lecture Series with Dr. Andre Krauss

This 4-part lecture series is in support of the 2020 Butterflies of Hope and Remembrance project to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration camps. Dr. Krauss is an eminent authority on this dark period of history and will offer insights that will provide a better understanding of the Shoah. Each lecture will be delivered in an interactive multimedia presentation. Four consecutive Thursdays at 11 am J an. 9: J an. 1 6: J an. 23: J an. 30:

Cultural Origins of Anti-Semitism Inside Hitler’s Head: The Psychodynamics of Nazi Anti-Semitism Jewish Resistance in Europe During the Holocaust Anti-Semitism, Holocaust Denial, & Holocaust Education

COST OF THE SERIES: TBS MEMBERS, $25 / NON-MEMBERS, $36 Re se r v a ti ons ma y b e made o n t he TBS we bsi t e o r th rou g h t h e TBS of fi ce (wi t h fu l l p ayme nt at ti me o f re se rv ati o n) by J anuar y 7.

CO-SPONSORED BY

TO REGISTER OR FOR MORE INFO PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE. W W W . T E M P L E B E Temple THSHO LOM FL.ORG/EVENTS Beth Sholom

◊

1050 South ◊ Tuttle Avenue FL ◊ Sarasota, FL 34237 941-955-8121 1050 South Tuttle Avenue Sarasota, 941.955.8121 ◊ www.templebethsholomfl.org/eve

The Temple Emanu-El Brotherhood, Sisterhood & Social Action Committee

P R E S E N T S

A TRIBUTE TO

Martin Luther

GET THE SCOOP WEEKLY!

“

King, Jr.

Injustice anywhere is a threat

Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota

PROGRAM:

REV. KELVIN LUMPKIN AND THE CHOIR OF THE KUGHT OF THE WORLD INTERNATIONAL CHURCH RSVP to Don Malawsky 941.359.2890 dmalawsky@msn.com

DON’T MISS OUT!

Registering for The Jewish Federation’s weekly email newsletter means you won’t miss out on important community information.

Go to JFEDSRQ.org and Click the GET UPDATES button at the top of the page.

”

to justice everywhere.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19, 2020

• 3:00 PM

Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota

PROGRAM:

REV. KELVIN LUMPKIN AND THE CHOIR OF THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD INTERNATIONAL CHURCH

To RSVP, visit www.sarasotatemple.org SPONSORED BY

FREE Donations Accepted

16A

January 2020

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Jewish DNA, genetic disease and Crypto-Jews

By Marden Paru, Dean, Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva | This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

he never-ending search for authenticity and proof of Jewish descent is in vogue today as evidenced by the large number of individuals who undergo DNA testing. The intrigue of finding out more about one’s Jewish roots and ancestry seems to be the main motivation for such searches. Even the rabbis are now using DNA testing to determine Jewish identity and status. Add to this the concern about inherited Jewish genetic diseases, and it makes such searches all the more compelling. Jewish genetic diseases are easily diagnosed. The top five Ashkenazic genetic diseases include Gaucher Dis-

ease (1 in 10), Cystic Fibrosis (1 in 24), Tay-Sachs Disease (1 in 27), Familial Dysautonomia (1 in 31) and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (1 in 41). We have learned so much in the last few decades that is now being applied to pre-marital and family counseling. Many oral family traditions portend Jewish ancestry as in the case of b’nei anusim (Crypto-Jews). Through DNA discovery, many are now returning to Judaism. The Spanish government offered inducements for Spanish citizenship to Crypto-Jews who could prove Jewish ancestry back to before the Expulsion from Spain in 1492. In recent years,

“These we honor” Your Tributes ANNUAL CAMPAIGN IN MEMORY OF Anshel Berkowitz Craig Berkowitz

BOB MALKIN YOUNG AMBASSADORS FUND IN HONOR OF Debbie & Tom Shapiro Rebecca & Rich Bergman

SKIP (Send a Kid to Israel Program) IN HONOR OF Sarah Albert Betty Stone Lois Auerbach Betty Stone IN MEMORY OF Bonnie Coker Patti & David Wertheimer Elizabeth Schreiber Patti & David Wertheimer Judy Vigder Patti & David Wertheimer

anthropological studies of CryptoJews have increased and whetted many appetites for researching the fruits of family trees. Why? And does it matter? How important are Jewish roots and what does it suggest about the future? Join us in a review of “DNA, Jewish Genetic Diseases and Crypto-Jews” and the neverending search for Jewish identity. The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva is offering an eight-week course on Mondays, from 3:15 to 4:30 p.m., starting February 3. Classes are held on The Larry

& Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. To enroll, please contact me at marden.paru@gmail.com or 941.379.5655. The fee of $70 includes all materials. This course is open to everyone regardless of background or personal orientation. The Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva is a 501(c)(3) non-denominational not-for-profit organization, which also operates, in part, through a grant from The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee.

Friendly Visitors for isolated seniors

This program is Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

FCS of the Suncoast’s Jewish Healing Program provides Friendly Visitors to visit individuals in the community who are isolated and lack socialization. The relationships that are fostered often bloom into longstanding friendships. The Friendly Visitor appreciates interacting with someone who would otherwise not have company, while the client feels valued and grateful to experience meaningful conversation. Friendly Visitors typically visit each week but can also be in touch by

phone. They are matched with clients according to need, interests and location. They receive training and provide brief accounts of their visits. Their role is not intended to provide respite for a caregiver. If you know someone you think could benefit from having a Friendly Visitor, please contact Community Chaplain Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz at 941.366.2224 x166. The JFCS Jewish Healing Program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee.

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.

Helping you live the life you want, the way you want.

JFCS Jewish Healing Program Director Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz recently met with Venice area Friendly Visitors Lillian Gorfain, Chaya Perera and Debbie Sternlicht

Make someone

feel special

on their birthday by making a donation in their name. • Personal Care • Daily Living Assistance • Light Housekeeping • Skilled Nursing • Dementia Specialists • Respite Care and Family Relief • Inpatient Hospital Sitters • And Much More …

Call Paula at 941.552.6304

Or visit jfedsrq.org/tribute to donate

January 2020

COMMUNITY FOCUS

17A

Joseph Bau: artist, counterfeiter and Mossad agent This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

Bereavement Support Group coming to Longboat Key This program is Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

o join with others who have also lost loved ones is a source of comfort and contributes to a renewed sense of possibility. For the first time in several years, JFCS of the Suncoast’s highly regarded Bereavement Support Group is returning to Longboat Key. In partnership with The Paradise Center and open to those of all faiths and backgrounds, beginning on January 23, the group will meet on five successive Thursdays from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at the LBK Paradise Center for Healthy Living’s new home at 546 Bay Isles Road.

Facilitated by Community Chaplain Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz, the group will examine how loss impacts us, provide coping insights and help cultivate resilience. Participants will appreciate the opportunity to share, learn and find new strength. The $36 fee covers all five sessions. Pre-registration is required. For more information and to register, contact Rabbi Katz at 941.366.2224 x166 or jkatz@jfcs-cares.org. The JFCS Bereavement Support Group is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

volunteer

1960s and 1970s bore his title credits. Ever the innovator, Bau devised unique Hebrew fonts for each movie. Chezi (Eli) Bartov, an Israeli American, will present Joseph Bau’s story in a multimedia format. Bartov has lived in Fort Lauderdale for the past 35 years. He is a retired Israel Defense Forces (IDF) officer from a special operations unit. He holds a B.S. in Industrial Engineering and an MBA in Marketing from Hofstra University. He was also a lecturer at Hofstra. Presently, Chezi Bartov is President of the Israeli AIPAC chapter. He

is also on the Board of Directors of Friends of the Hebrew University, a representative of Friends of the Joseph Bau Museum in the United States, and a member of Friends of the Meir Amit Center of Intelligence. He lectures on the Jewish influence on Far East and Israeli intelligence. Reservations for the program may be made at www.templebethsholomfl. org/events or by calling the Temple Beth Sholom office at 941.955.8121. The cost of advance reservations (by Friday, January 10) is $8; the cost of admission at the door is $10.

The dynamic duo – doing what we do BEST SERVING THE JEWISH COMMUNITY Wishing our Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Community a very happy Hanukkah and a healthy and prosperous 2020.

NOWHERE BUT HERE.

Adolph Eichmann to justice in Israel. “Survivor” is somehow too passive a word to describe Joseph Bau. Many may remember the moving representation of his clandestine concentrationcamp marriage in Thomas Keneally’s book Schindler’s Ark, and later in Steven Spielberg’s film Schindler’s List. In 1941, the family was moved to the nearby Plaszow forced-labor camp. There, guards made Joseph draw maps and inscribe signs in gothic lettering. Salvation came in 1944, when German philanthropist and industrialist Oskar Schindler spirited him away to his munition’s factory in Czechoslovakia. Joseph Bau and his family arrived penniless to Israel in 1950. He almost singlehandedly created Israel’s animation industry. Most Israeli films of the

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he entire community is invited to attend a special presentation on Wednesday, January 15 at 1:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom (1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota) to hear the amazing story about Joseph Bau. The program is co-sponsored by Temple Beth Sholom Continuing Education, Men’s Club and Sisterhood, and The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. While living in the Krakow Ghetto, Joseph Bau kept his family alive by forging papers in exchange for food. He was also one of the Jews saved by Oskar Schindler. In Israel, he led a double life as an animator, while he secretly worked with the Mossad. He forged documents for Israeli spies and the passport that was used to bring

18A

January 2020

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COMMUNITY FOCUS

Temple Sinai announces 12th Annual Sarasota Jewish Food Festival By Gail Glickman | This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

he excitement mounts as Temple Sinai prepares for another year of delighting members of the community with “real” Jewish food at the 12th Annual Sarasota Jewish Food Festival on Sunday, January 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rain or shine, this indoor event thrills everyone with traditional Jewish cuisine. Temple Sinai’s chef, Adam Woldman, is working with many members of the temple preparing delicious Jewish food. The menu will feature hard to resist deli corned beef and pastrami, Sinai bagels, fresh-baked New York-style bagels and homemade cream cheese by Chef Adam, kugel, blintzes, knishes, chopped liver, stuffed cabbage and brisket, just to name a few. There will also be lots of delicious

Delite your palate, body and soul with globally-inspired, fresh lunches under 600 calories!

Temple Sinai members preparing stuffed cabbage for Food Festival 2019

Kira Gordon and Else Weinstein at the 2019 Festival

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home-baked cakes, pies, pastries and dry goods and non-perishable food to cookies. The event is free and open to stock shelves at All Faiths Food Bank. the community. Tickets are sold for the At the end of the event, leftover food, food. books and other small treasures will beopm the S In addition to offering delicious donated to those in need. will Jewish food, there will be craft who and jewelry vendors and an art year sale. Health vendors will proIsrae vide information about their Beth organizations. Sara The event is sponsored from by The Jewish Federation of Janu Sarasota-Manatee, The Furrefre niture Warehouse and Aviva ries – a Campus for Senior Life. Fede Temple Sinai has a strong partTem nership with Aravilla, Church O of the Palms and All Faiths the r Food Bank. Each guest is ism asked to bring canned goods, Temple Sinai members serving at Food Festival 2019 pare

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Read the current and previous editions of The Jewish News online at www.jfedsrq.org.

January 2020

COMMUNITY FOCUS

19A

Six-part archaeology series to take place at Temple Beth Sholom This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

veryone is invited to attend a special six-part archaeology series titled “Siblings: The Development of Sectarian Judaism During the Second Temple Period.” This series will be led by Steven Stark-Riemer, who directed an acclaimed course last year, titled “The Diversity of Ancient Israel.” Classes will be held at Temple Beth Sholom (1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota) on six consecutive Tuesdays, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., from January 14 through February 18. Light refreshments will be served. This series is co-sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and Temple Beth Sholom. Often, it is a startling truth that the religions we know today as Judaism and Christianity do not stand in a parent-child, root-branch relationship,

but one which better resembles that College of New York, studying Anthroof siblings whose parent was Second pology and specializing in ArchaeolTemple Judaism. In these ogy, during which, he six sessions, attendees conducted fieldwork will examine the beginin Israel at Tel Gezer. nings of a phenomenon, Stark-Riemer graduatoften called “Sectarian ed from City College Judaism,” that gave birth in 1972 and went on to these two “siblings.” to complete UCLA’s The titles of the six Ph.D. program in Arsessions are: “An End chaeology. and a Beginning,” “Out For years, Starkof the Ashes,” “Judaism Riemer has taught Meets Hellenism,” “The biblical archaeology Maccabean Revolt and courses and has acthe Beginning of Sectarquired a devoted folSteven Stark-Riemer ian Judaism,” “The Valowing. This past year, riety of Second Temple Judaism” and a record number of Sarasota/Manatee “Sectarian Judaism Examined.” residents attended his “Diversity of An attorney by profession, SteAncient Israel” course and gave him ven Stark-Riemer graduated from City rave reviews, asking that he return

this year and teach another course. Al Treidel, Chair of TBS’s Continuing Education Committee, commented that, “Attendees at the Siblings classes are in for a rare treat. Mr. Stark-Riemer exudes great enthusiasm, is incredibly knowledgeable, and does a wonderful job dialoguing with his students through his multimedia presentations. You will not want to miss this series.” The fee for this six-session course is $36 for Temple Beth Sholom members and $50 for non-members. Register online at www.templebethsholomfl. org/events or call the Temple Beth Sholom Office at 941.955.8121. Space is limited and individuals are encouraged to register as far in advance as possible.

Bridge... Anyone?

The Bridge Group meets Thursday afternoons from 1:00–4:00 pm on the Federation Campus By Linda Hunt | This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee (582 McIntosh Road). he speaks Hebrew. He doesn’t “I love that this play features a culfrom very different backgrounds, you to intermediate blossom in even the most unlikely of Open know much besides “mazel tov.” tural and language gap,” shared Anat can still find the path to love,” added places. and advanced bridge players. But stuck together in a Virginia Cogan, the Israeli actress playing Ayelet Cohn. Handle With Care is now playing For more information, motel room on Christmas Eve, Ayelet, in FST’s Handle With Care. “We need Called “hilarious and heartwarmin FST’s Keating Theatre. Tickets are call Bob Satnick a young woman from Israel, and Josh, to accept and celebrate our differences, ing” by The New York Times, Handle available online at floridastudiotheatre. at 941.538.3739 a young American man, must find a which this play does in such a beautiful With Care reminds us that love can org or by calling 941.366.9000.

Handle With Care at Florida Studio Theatre

way to communicate about a very important lost package. Florida Studio Theatre (FST) brings you Handle With Care by Jason Odell Williams, a cross-cultural romantic comedy. In Handle With Care, Ayelet reluctantly travels with her grandmother to America. Hilarious and tragic circumstances leave her stranded in a motel with Terrence, a well-meaning but inept delivery man. She doesn’t know much English and he doesn’t know any Hebrew, so he calls on his friend Josh, the only Jewish person he knows, to act as an interpreter. The problem is that Josh only remembers a fraction of what he learned for his bar mitzvah almost 20 years ago. Still, Josh and Ayelet manage to forge a connection.

way. It brings together two people who barely understand each other, and yet find the way to communicate.” While writing this play, Williams drew inspiration from his own experiences with language gaps. On several occasions, he had difficulty trying to communicate with his Israeli-born wife’s family. “Jason and I, in our personal life, had to overcome very different backgrounds,” shared Charlotte Cohn, the playwright’s wife and author of the Friespoke ndly Hebrew in Handle With Care. “I BUT English, but, still, I’m Israeli and Jewish, and he’s American and not Jewish.” Their situation is not new. Friends, couples and families must overcome their differences in order to communicate every day. “Even if you come

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20A

A n nivesay 5 7 of January 2020

COMMUNITY FOCUS

he Soviets liberated Auschwitz, the largest killing center and concentration camp, in January 1945. The Nazis had forced the majority of Auschwitz prisoners to march westward (in what would become known as “death marches”). Soviet soldiers found over six thousand emaciated prisoners alive when they entered the camp. There was abundant evidence of mass murder in Auschwitz. The retreating Germans had destroyed most of the warehouses in the camp, but in the remaining ones the Soviets found personal belongings of the victims. They discovered, for example, hundreds of thousands of men’s suits, more than 800,000 women’s outfits, and more than 14,000 pounds of human hair. In the following months, the Soviets liberated additional camps in the Baltic states and in Poland. Shortly before Germany’s surrender, Soviet forces liberated the Stutthof, Sachsenhausen, and Ravensbrück concentration camps. US forces liberated the Buchenwald concentration camp near Weimar, Germany, on April 11, 1945, a few days after the Nazis began evacuating the camp. On the day of liberation, an underground prisoner resistance organization seized control of Buchenwald to prevent atrocities by the retreating camp guards. American forces liberated more than 20,000 prisoners at Buchenwald. They also liberated Dora-Mittelbau, Flossenbürg, Dachau, and Mauthausen. British forces liberated concentration camps in northern Germany, including Neuengamme and Bergen-Belsen. They entered the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, near Celle, in mid-April 1945. Some 60,000 prisoners, most in critical condition because of a typhus epidemic, were found alive. More than 10,000 of them died from the effects of malnutrition or disease within a few weeks of liberation.

Liberation

As a frigid, dark si

lence hovered ove The most noto r Auschwitz , rious of the Naz i death camps The winter su , n began to rise in the east . Dawn slowly li fted the curta in of darkness Revealing an em , pty compound surrounded by barbed w From a nearby hut , skeletal su rv Slowly emerge d, hoping to abs ivors, wearing stripe orb the sun’s warmth. The emaciated men , some close to death, seem They reali zed ed puzzled that there wer e no guards or dogs in the They could not have known that their evil Germ Had fled during an tormen the night to es cape the reveng Russian forces eful that were nea ring the cursed More than a m place where illion innocent Jewish women Had been gasse , men , and chil d and turned into smoke and ashes. Some of the su rvivors appro ached the barb And stood ther ed wire fence e gazing out th rough lifeless Others shuffle eyes. d around aimle ssly, speaking gibberish. A few of the most ra vaged lay dow And dreamt of n, curled up, fe their mothers, ll asleep, wives, children, Some died in th lovers. eir sleep, never to see another dawn. Suddenly, one of th e survivors lo In disbelief, sa oked around a nd then , id: “The butche rs are gone!” ome of the other s whose minds were still inta Also looked aro ct und and respon ded haltingly: “Yes…the…butc hers…are gone .” No one smile They had forg d. otten how to sm ile.

US Army medics help evacuate ill and starving survivors. Buchenwald, Germany, April 1, 1945

Women in the barracks of the newly liberated Auschwitz concentratio

UPCOMING BUTTERFLIES OF HOPE & REMEMBRANCE EVENTS JUST REEL FILMS PRESENTS: DENIAL January 14, 2020 • 7pm

Beatrice Friedman Theater The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee For more information go to jfedsrq.org/justreel

INT’L HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY FEATURING DEBÓRAH DWORK

January 26, 2020 • 3pm Beatrice Friedman Theater The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee For more information go to jfedsrq.org/events

US HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL MUSEUM EVENT February 19, 2020 • 7pm

MOVIE: DEFIANCE

Temple Beth Sholom, Sarasota For more information call 941.955.8121

March 2, 2020 • 4pm Temple Beth Israel, Longboat Key For more information call 941.383.3428

COMMUNITY LECTURE FEATURING DEBORAH LIPSTADT

RESCUERS OF THE HOLOCAUST FEATURING ANDRE KRAUSS

February 25, 2020 • 7pm Anti-Semitism Here and Now Sarasota Municipal Auditorium Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee For more information go to jfedsrq.org/events

March 3, 2020 - 2pm Sponsored by OLLI at Ringling For more information call 941.309.5111

AN EVENING WITH RUTH BIELSKI EHRREICH DAUGHTER OF TUVIA BIELSKI

March 10, 2020 • 7pm Temple Beth Sholom For more information call 941.955.8121

January 2020

COMMUNITY FOCUS

21A

of Libeatio

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puzzled when gs in the camp.

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-2-

ived would Or ever fo ever rget the sight and stop dreaming of Or the st death, sm ing of the lash , or th ell of death, Or the sig e pain of ht hun Or the inn of men hanging o n gallows ger, ocents be in or beaten Like lamb g led to th senseless, s to slau eir death ghter. Then the Ru ssian sold Until tha iers —dirt t moment y, unsha , they tho ven —appe The wors ught tha t crimes t they ha ared. that men d witnes could com sed mit again The sight st other of the livin h umans. g dead be Stunned them and hind the b altered th a eir view o rbed wire f h umanity taring at forever. Some beca the worst depra vities of me nausea the ted, some stood pa war, some wept , ralyzed. Two of th e soldiers walked u And tore p to the g it down . ate Th To give th e survivo en their comrades of the compound r rus sb To cover th em with th lack bread and wa hed in and began t eir own c oats and er and blankets. Some trie d to cons ole surviv Them tha or t this wa s the day s. And others kep t reassu of their li ring beration Auschwitz from terr , Januar o r. y 27, 1945 Of surviv , the day ors of the of the firs Holocaus t liberat t. ion Soon the evil th at the Ge Would be rman de reve Many of th aled to a shocked ath machine had c ommitted , sometim e killers w es disbeli And all o eving wor f them wo ould be brought t o justice. ld. uld event ually bur n in a Da ntean In ferno. –– oem by aro ld olfe arasota

W ,S

We Salute You !

Sarasota resident, Art Sheridan,

was in service from August 1943 to February 1946. He served in the 20th Armored Division and the 60th Infantry Battalion. The 20th Armored Division was credited with liberating Dachau. All Photos: U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum

US Army medical personnel with the 10th Armored Division distribute food to two survivors liberated from a concentration camp

An American soldier and liberated prisoners of the Mauthausen concentration camp, Austria, May 1945

us for J oinINTERNATIONAL

HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY

Sunday January , 26, 2020 3:00pm

Beatrice Friedman Theater • The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life • 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota

To register, visit

jfedsrq.org/events Guest Speaker:

Debórah Dwork, Ph.D. Debórah Dwork is an American historian, specializing in the history of the Holocaust. She is the Rose Professor of Holocaust History and Founding Director of the Strassler Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts. Internationally

For more information on Holocaust related programming at The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, contact Jessi Sheslow at 941.343.2109 or jsheslow@jfedsrq.org

22A

January 2020

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Temple Emanu-El, Jewish Federation to celebrate legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

emple Emanu-El and The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee will co-sponsor a celebration and tribute to the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Sunday, January 19 at Temple Emanu-El (151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota). This annual interfaith gathering – undertaken in conjunction with events sponsored by the Newtown Tribute Committee in honor of Martin Luther King. Jr. Day – will begin at 3:00 p.m., with doors opening at 2:30 p.m. It is fitting for the Jewish community to offer this tribute as Dr. King and his mission were strongly supported by American Jews – both clergy and laypeople. His vision echoes our people’s own redemption from slavery and suffering as well as the Jewish commitment to equality, liberty and freedom for all. This special event will comprise music, poetry and sermon, highlighted

by beautiful choir music presented by the Light of the World International Church of Sarasota; stirring words from the Church’s extraordinary leader, Rev. Kelvin Lumpkin; and readings of original poems. Additional presentations will commemorate the horrific 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Bap-

tist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, which took the lives of four beautiful little girls. A cake and coffee social will follow the program, which is free and open to the community. Voluntary donations will be gratefully accepted. Special thanks are offered to the

Robert and Esther Heller Community Relations Committee (CRC) of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee for its generous funding, as well as Temple Emanu-El’s Brotherhood, Sisterhood and Social Action Committee. For further information, please contact Don Malawsky at dmalawsky@msn. com.

At last year’s tribute: Temple Emanu-El Senior Rabbi Brenner Glickman, Melanie Thomas, Brotherhood Trustee Don Malawsky, Social Action Chair Barbara Peltz, Brotherhood Past President Barry Gerber, Reverend Charles McKenzie, Temple Emanu-El President Ken Marsh, Brotherhood President Bob Meisel, Sisterhood Past Co-President Judy Levy

Local teenagers delighted attendees with musical performances at last year’s event

NCJW 2020 scholarship applications available online By Andria Bilan, Chair, Scholarship Grants Committee, NCJW

his year marks the 20th Annual Scholarship Awards Program sponsored by the Sarasota-Manatee Section of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW). The Scholarship Program recognizes and promotes education of “non-traditional students” who are seeking to continue their education. New this year, the scholarship application is available online at www. NCJWSarasota-Manatee.org. To access the application, please pull down the Community Services tab and select Non-Traditional Scholarships. “The Scholarship Grant Program underscores the mission of the Sara-

sota-Manatee Section of the National Council of Jewish Women to improve the quality of life for women, children and families. We consider all eligible students, male or female, who need financial assistance to reach their personal and professional goals,” noted Andria Bilan, Chair, Scholarship Grants Committee. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and meet the following criteria: be a minimum of 24 years of age; have a gap of at least six years following high school graduation; hold a high school diploma or GED; be a documented resident of Sarasota

or Manatee County; be registered at an accredited educational institution, which must be a two-year college, a community college, a four-year college, a vocational/technical school, graduate school or an online program. Online applications must be sub-

mitted by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2020. The Scholarship Grant Awards ceremony will be held on Wednesday, April 22 on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life. For more information, please call 941.342.1855.

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January 2020

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Another year of keeping the dream alive

n November 18, hundreds of friends, family, volunteers, staff and supporters gathered at Michael’s On East with one mission in mind and one singular dream. Twenty-five years ago from the date, a group of passionate members of the Sarasota community came together with a vision to create a campus for seniors built on the Jewish values of love, understanding and compassion. Their vision would one day become Aviva – A Campus for Senior Life, Sarasota’s premier rental senior living campus. Each year, The Aviva Foundation holds Keep the Dream Alive, Aviva’s largest fundraising gala. The dream, which is so integral to this event, comes from Aviva’s Founders who believed that no qualified resident of Aviva should ever feel the burden of facing eviction due to financial loss or struggle. For residents who qualify, this dream has since become a promise, that through the Benevolent Care Fund, these residents are ensured a place to live and the many amenities that come with living at Aviva. Not only does this fund support them where they currently live, such as bru-those who live at Kobernick IndepenGrantdent Living, it also covers the cost onassociated as they age into Aviva’s y &complete continuum of care, including s forAnchin Assisted Living and Benderson tion,Skilled Nursing. At this year’s Keep the Dream Alive event, the theme of the evening was a focus on stories. Children of residents shared with those gathered the powerful stories of their own families who have embraced the Aviva community and the effect the unique senior community has had on their parents. The evening ended with a passionate speech by Aviva President &

CEO Jay Solomon. Using the time to discuss his ongoing health battle, Jay spoke about the power of community, and shared with the audience how the Aviva campus is so much more than a location but a thriving and dynamic family. Thanks to the contributions made by the generous attendees of the evening’s festivities, it is estimated that an additional 15 to 20 residents will be cared for financially through Aviva’s Benevolent Care Fund. For more information on Aviva and its Benevolent Care Fund, visit aviva seniorlife.org or call 941.377.0781.

23A

us for J oinINTERNATIONAL

HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY

Commemorating 75 years since the liberation of Nazi concentration camps and the end of World War II

Sunday January , 26, 2020 3:00pm

Beatrice Friedman Theater • The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life • 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota

Guest Speaker:

Debórah Dwork, Ph.D.

Chairman of the Aviva Board of Trustees Norman Cohen and former Aviva Resident Council President Ellis Lasberg

Photo: Jonathan Edelman

Debórah Dwork is an American historian, specializing in the history of the Holocaust. She is the Rose Professor of Holocaust History and Founding Director of the Strassler Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts. Internationally renowned for her scholarship and the author of awardwinning books, she is also a leading authority on university education in this field.

Entertainment: Sarasota Youth & Children’s Choir

Aviva President & CEO Jay Solomon with his wife Lori and Aviva resident Phyllis Davis

For more information, contact Brieana Duckett-Graves 941.552.6305 or bdgraves@jfedsrq.org

Cheers. Connection is our promise. Spring into Lifestyle

From monthly happy hours to special events by the pool, our Aviva community is always looking for reasons to get together and connect! Led by our Director of Life Enrichment, our community maintains a monthly calendar with well over 400 individual events per month ranging from social to educational to health and wellness. Let your senses come alive during our Aviva Concert Series featuring local Sarasota musicians ongoing from December through May or enjoy a lecture led by Sarasota scientists and historians in our Kretzmer Center. No matter what your interest may be there is always something do to and a new way to connect to your family at Aviva.

1951 N. Honore Ave. Sarasota, FL 34235

941.377.0781 www.AvivaSeniorLife.org

24A

January 2020

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Sarasota-Manatee has Jewish connection to the circus By Kim Sheintal, President, Jewish Genealogical Society of SWFL

arasota has had a rich circus heritage since 1927 when John Ringling moved the winter quarters of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus to Sarasota. It then moved from Sarasota to Venice in 1960. Jewish circus performers and businessmen have played a major impact in Sarasota achieving its status as the home of the American circus. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus has been owned by a Jewish family longer than it has been owned by the Ringling brothers or Barnum and Bailey. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus was bought in 1967 by Irvin Feld, a Jewish entrepreneur. In 1968, Feld created Clown College in Venice to train clowns. For its 20th anniversary, Clown College was featured on a CBS special hosted by Dick Van Dyke. After Irvin Feld’s passing in 1984, his children took over the Feld production business, the Ringling shows and Clown College. The Irvin and Kenneth Feld Productions, Inc. changed its name to Feld Entertainment, Inc. in 1996. Feld Entertainment Inc. moved its Virginia-based corporate operations to Ellenton in 2012. Feld Entertainment, Inc., still in Ellenton, is a live show production company which owns a number of traveling shows. Clown College closed in 1997 after 25 years in Venice, followed by three years in Baraboo (Wisconsin) and its last two years in Sarasota. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus held its final performances in May 2017. Many Jewish people have performed and managed activities for the circus in Sarasota-Manatee. Frank Bartlet Adler, known as Felix Adler or “The King of Clowns,” performed for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus for 20 years. He was inducted

into the International Clown Hall of Fame in 1989. His father was Jewish and Irish; his mother was Scotch and Indian. Adler said, “All the races in me

cus Ring of Fame Foundation’s Special Award of Recognition in 2003 on St. Armands Circle for her efforts which helped preserve Sarasota’s rich circus heritage. Rita Adler was a remarkable Jewish lady who will be remembered for her love and passion of the arts and circus in Sarasota. Nate Eagle, whose Jewish family came from Poland to New Billy Bob “Todd” Steinberg, Chuck Sidlow, Mariko Sidlow and Roberts York in the early 1900s, Collins presented “Jews in the Circus” at Temple Beth Israel in 2012 was an agent for a group are having a terrific scramble to come of midget circus performers and a ringto the top.” master for the Ringling Bros. and BarAlbert White, a Jewish clown in num & Bailey Circus starting in 1952. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Mr. Fribush, payroll coordinator Circus, persuaded the circus to engage for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & BaiTemple Beth Sholom’s Rabbi Barry Konovich as the circus chaplain in the 1970s. Rose Hanlon, English born and Jewish, was the first woman clown for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey ponsored by National Council Circus. of Jewish Women, “Someone Jacob Rheuben Erlich, professionTo Talk To” is a puppet presenally credited as Jack Earle and rememtation for first graders that gently talks bered as the Jewish Giant, performed about four different kinds of abuse. As for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Baisavvy as today’s first graders are, they ley Circus. Earle was one of the world’s may be experiencing things which they tallest humans at 8 feet 6½ inches tall. think are normal but are not. SomeFrank Miller, who was Jewish, was times things happen that they know head of the concessions for Ringling are wrong but generate enough fear of Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. continuing consequences that they are Milton Bartok, a Jewish circus too afraid to tell someone. Through the worker, became well known as a patpuppets and their conversations, we let ent medicine marketer, minstrel show the children know that they need to talk producer and, later, circus owner. His family spent winters in Sarasota beginning in the 1940s. The Sarasota Yacht Club, which usually excluded Jews, invited Bartok to join, despite public knowledge of his religion. Rita Adler, often seen riding elephants in the circus, received the Cir-

ley Circus, was Jewish. Richard Fuchs, a Jewish employee of John Ringling during the 1920s and 1930s, was one of the incorporators of the Ringling Museum. Jewish clowns Billy Bob “Todd” Steinberg and Chuck Sidlow performed for Circus Sarasota (Florida’s only not-for-profit resident circus). Sarasota’s Big Top Tours (Sarasota’s circus history bus tour company) is owned by Roberts Collins, who is Jewish. After 92 years, the Jews continue to contribute to the circus scene in Sarasota-Manatee. Known as the Circus Capital of the World, our community has many Jewish circus performers and businessmen to thank for making this recognition possible.

“Someone To Talk To” volunteers needed

to an adult, a safe adult, who can help them. The program is presented in Sarasota County schools on Tuesdays starting in January. You don’t have to memorize anything. We stand behind the curtain with scripts in hand. Sound interesting? Please contact Susan Horowitz at sbhorowitz55@ gmail.com. This is an important community service program that has been serving children for many years. We would love to have you join us!

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January 2020

COMMUNITY FOCUS

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usTemple Emanu-El to honor Susan and Randy Mallitz

t its annual Gala on Sunday, February 16, Temple Emanuoyee El will honor Susan and Rananddy Mallitz for their philanthropy and rs ofleadership. After moving to Lakewood Ranch odd”in 2009, the Mallitzes became involved per-in the community due to their passion ida’sfor giving back. . Among the beneficiaries of their Sara-leadership and generosity is JFCS of any)the Suncoast, where Randy served on ho isthe board and Susan chaired its Celebrity Chefs annual fundraiser, adding a inuegolf event which greatly increased pare inticipation and earned them the JFCS Cir-Visionary Award. Susan co-chaired the mmu-annual Gala as well as the Magill lecmersture series, while Randy helped create kingthe Major Gifts Program and upgrade JFCS’s IT systems. The Mallitzes are also active in Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s mentoring program; Aviva, where Randy served as president and received the Coville Leadership Award, and Susan served on the “Keeping The Dream Alive” committee; Nathan Benderson Park Foundation; SANCA; ORT; Ha-

dassah; Brandeis; National Council of Jewish Women; Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue; JoshProvides; Asolo Repertory Theatre; and Florida Studio Theatre. Committed to The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, Susan twice co-chaired Women’s Day and,

have been financial supporters for the Benderson Hall renovation program, which Susan co-chaired, and the beautiful renovation of the school building. Randy actively works with the strategic team, and Susan is a past board member. Susan and Randy have three generations of family at Temple Emanu-El, with two of their grandchildren having had b’not mitzvah there and the third preparing for her ceremony. “We are truly honored that Temple

Emanu-El has chosen to recognize us,” the Mallitzes stated. “We have chosen to focus our efforts to upgrade the security program. We sincerely appreciate your support in helping to provide a safe environment for all of us at the temple.” The community is warmly invited to honor the Mallitzes at this wonderful Gala. For information about sponsorships and tickets, please call 941.371.2788.

Honorees Susan and Randy Mallitz

with Randy, completed the Federation Leadership Training Program. Susan is also a member of the Women’s Giving Circle, and both are proud financial supporters of Federation. At Temple Emanu-El, the Mallitzes

Temple Beth Sholom to host Cantor Audrey Abrams

ll are invited to attend Shabbat elor of Music Therapy from Michigan services on January 10 and 11 State University and an M.A. in Muat Temple Beth Sholom, where sic Education and Therapy from the Cantor Audrey Abrams of Beth El University of Minnesota. She received Synagogue (Minneapolis, Minnesota) her cantorial certification from Hebrew will officiate services along with Rabbi Union College in 2001. Cantor Abrams Michael Werbow, enhancand retired Beth El ing these services with Cantor Neil Newher beautiful voice. Canman will sing a few tor Abrams’ visit is being duets together during sponsored by the Corn services. They will Music Fund at Temple be accompanied on Beth Sholom (TBS). piano by TBS memBecause many people ber Toby Simon. from Minnesota winter in Cantor Abrams Naples, Sanibel and Sarafirst appeared at sota, a group of Temple Temple Beth Sholom Beth Sholom members in 2016 for a Jewish from Minnesota decided music concert open to host “the great Minneto the community. Cantor Audrey Abrams sota get-together.” SixtyEveryone is welcome five people from Minnesota will gather to return to Temple Beth Sholom to enat TBS (1050 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarajoy worshiping with Cantor Abrams sota) for services on Friday night and once again. Saturday morning to hear Cantor AuThe Friday night service, which drey Abrams. begins at 6:30 p.m., will be followed Cantor Abrams, born and raised in by an oneg. A Kiddush luncheon will Rochester, New York, holds a Bachfollow morning services on January 11.

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January 2020

JEWISH INTEREST

It’s a little bit Brooklyn, a little bit Lower East Side Book review by Philip K. Jason, Special to The Jewish News L’Chaim and Lamentations: Stories by Craig Darch. NewSouth Books. 160 pages. Hardcover $24.95.

ot long ago, I had the pleasure of writing about Richard Slotkin’s short story collection titled Greenhorns. I take the same pleasure in sharing Craig Darch’s somewhat similar collection. Darch, a professor at Auburn University, has crafted a compact, resonant memorial to the Jewish ethos as it existed in New York City for Phil Jason many decades. Though there are few time markers, the ambiance seems to suggest the 1920s through the 1950s. These decades have faded away, with their various tones of hope and disappointment. They are almost forgotten, but the author brings them back through the sensibilities of people who themselves are on a point of balance between forgetting and remembering – as well as being forgotten. Many live lonely lives, many have fallen upon – or always had – hard times. Many have a special kind of dignity and even courage. Darch’s nostalgic heart has made their ordinariness extraordinary. These are people surviving inside their loneliness. The world they once fully inhabited has changed around them. The corner delicatessens run by hardworking neighbor-owners have vanished or been transformed. Darch’s seven stories are seven gems.

“Sadie’s Prayer” offers two aged that even in the afterlife, roommates, Sadie and Esther. They Esther will need a friend are a kind of odd couple. Esther’s temlike Sadie. perament demands neatness and conIn “Kaddish for vention. She can’t understand why the Two” we enter the lives good lord has given her such an annoyof Zev Abramovitch and ing partner and how the Jewish housing his 33-year old unmaragency brought them together. Esther ried son Aharon. For cannot adjust to Sadie’s smoking, to her Zev, it’s very important Communist leanings, to her messiness. that his son continues Esther looks backward. Her memories the family line and exof life with her deceased husband are periences its joys in a kind of anchor. She seems to talk to the traditional manner. him, and Sadie is crass enough to point Readers will suspect out that “Max is reading the newspaper the reason for Ahaand having his bagels someplace else ron’s resistance to such conversations this morning.” long before Aharon ends the useless Esther voices her wish that she had fencing back and forth by announcperished with her husband, and Sadie ing that he is gay. Darch’s credible chides her for her silliness. and powerful handling of this situaKnowing that they are each guilty tion, the horrors of moral blindness of making each othand disappointment that er’s lives much more overwhelm both men, is miserable than they stunning. The premise, need to be, they agree that a Jewish man needs – at Sadie’s suggesa son to guarantee that tion – that they each there is someone to say treat the other with Kaddish for him, resocivility. Fat chance nates both in comfortof that happening – able and uncomfortable at least not yet. They ways. are wired differently “Who’s the Old and, most likely, it is Crone” raises the issue too late for them to of Jewish continuity in change. a different way. Three Craig Darch The women’s bickering dialogue is old friends are chatting and noshing quite humorous, and perhaps will seem at a restaurant, Schwartzman’s Nosh, familiar to many readers. We all know run by Sybil. They see a woman they people like this. They are our relatives, haven’t seen there before who looks if not necessarily our friends. down and out. She seems at once pitiThey compete about who suffers ful and imposing. But who are they to the most, who prays the most, and judge? They are the remnants of the whose taste is superior. Romanian synagogue “bankrupt and In a sense, one can’t live without boarded up years ago.” the other, and the conclusion makes Indeed, they are its last rabbi, clear that Sadie knows it and knows last sexton and last cantor. They are

learned and somewhat cantankerous. The sexton, Eisenberg, “could kvetch fluently in seven languages.” Nachman, the cantor, who had lost his once-glorious voice, magically gets it back. Rabbi Fiddleman holds the group together. They have nothing to do except appraise the dishwasher and overhear a (beautifully rendered) mother-daughter confrontation. An incident in the Nosh leads the three men, each in his own way, to contemplate death. The rabbi explains that “the Torah makes no definitive statement about an afterlife.” A year passes, and they are still talking about the old crone and muttering about how after coming to Schwartzman’s for 10 years, there is “never a waitress when you need one.” These tales, and their four companions, are sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes consoling, always luminously true. Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeritus of English from the United States Naval Academy. He reviews regularly for Florida Weekly, Washington Independent Review of Books, Southern Literary Review, other publications and the Jewish Book Council. Please visit Phil’s website at www.philjason.word press.com.

Need to reach the editor of The Jewish News? Send an email to jewishnews18@gmail.com.

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January 2020

JEWISH INTEREST

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Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing old

When divorced parents age

what sex-By Rabbi Barbara Aiello ould hen the telephone rang at even 2:00 a.m. I knew it had to man, be bad news, and it was,” lostsays Kyle, who, along with his older oice,sister, shares the responsibility for carack. ing for their agolds ing parents. “My They sister was out of cept town so I raced sher to the hospital fully to be with Mom. ghter She lives alone and that night she Nosh fell and broke her own hip.” abbi Rabbi Barbara Aiello Kyle’s motho de-er is not a widow but she lives alone ife.”because 27 years ago, she and Kyle’s talk-father divorced. Now both parents are eringelderly and both have serious health artz-concerns. “Dad has a bad heart,” Kyle ver asays, “and I notice his dementia is getting worse. He has a girlfriend but com-they never married. Last week when king,she had chest pains, Dad didn’t call umi-her daughter. He called me! There’ve been times when my sister and I spend ritusevery night of the week running back Na-and forth among the three of them. I y forlove my parents but my “shuttle bus pen-life” is exhausting.” LitKyle and his sister are not alone. andAccording to an article by Chris Tayvisitlor (Wealth magazine 2012), “Some 60 wordpercent of unmarried boomers are divorced.” The implications for the next generation are serious as adult children of divorce struggle with the emotional and financial issues related to what Taylor calls a “demographic tsunami.” Professor Susan Brown co-authored a study that examined the sociological meaning of what gerontologists

“

tor

see as an alarming statistic. Brown reports that the current crop of unmarried boomers “are much more economically vulnerable than married boomers are” – a situation made especially precarious when multiple marriages are involved. Adult children like Kyle and his sister may find themselves responsible not only for two parents who live miles apart, but for their parents’ significant other – the stepparent or companion who, like their own mom and dad, eventually needs care and support. When step-wsiblings are involved, the situation becomes even more complicated. Francine Russo, author of They’re Your Parents Too, emphasizes that in addition to the financial stress of two parents with two different living situations, the emotional stakes can be quite high. Russo reports that “Adult children of divorce may feel anger or resentment at one parent, or feel like they have to parse out their time equally between both parents…and it can get pretty intense.” In a recent article by Ashley Rosa, “Late-Life Parental Divorce: How to Care for Your Parents” (Divorce Magazine.com 2019), the author offers suggestions regarding caring for elderly parents, especially when they divorce later in life. In what she describes as “double trouble,” Rosa notes that the practical support that happily married seniors enjoy evaporates when seniors divorce, especially after they’ve postponed the split, sometimes waiting years for their children to become adults before they take steps to dissolve the marriage.

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Rosa reminds us that adult children of divorce and their parents have issues that need to be addressed. She says, “As an adult, you feel that you should be able to cope and you shouldn’t feel so emotional about your parents’ divorce – making you likely to suffer in silence rather than reaching out for help.” Breaking that silence is critical and Rosa offers practical suggestions for doing just that: 1. Begin with an honest parent/adult child meeting where emotional issues are acknowledged and addressed 2. Continue with frank discussions about finances and living arrangements 3. Speak up about how caregiving responsibilities can be shared with siblings, both natural and step 4. Make plans for caregiver respite care and for the possibility of caregiver burnout In an article on “Divorce Etiquette” (ReformJudaism.org), psychotherapist Edythe Held Mencher and family law specialist Marsha Elser discuss how the synagogue community can facilitate positive relationships with families who for years have been navigating the troubled waters of divorce. The authors emphasize that Jewish professionals can play a leading role as they plan programs and support services that acknowledge that a parent’s divorce has lifelong emotional impact for the children. At each age and stage, from early childhood through the teen years and on to adulthood, divorce brings with it its own set of psychological concerns. Organizing a Jewish community support group for adult children of elderly divorced parents is

one way to ease the isolation that these adults often feel. Within our Jewish communities, divorced seniors are living alone, often with the particular emotional burden that characterizes a family split. At the same time, adult children of these seniors struggle with the difficulties of what Kyle calls the “shuttle bus life.” Given what the statistics tell us, helping divorced boomers and their adult children is a mitzvah in the making for Jewish communities nationwide. For 10 years Rabbi Barbara Aiello served the Aviva Campus for Senior Life as resident rabbi. She is rabbi of the Reconstructionist synagogue, Ner Tamid del Sud in south Italy, and serves as visiting rabbi in Rhodes, in the oldest synagogue in Greece. Contact her at Rabbi@RabbiBarbara.com.

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January 2020

JEWISH INTEREST

A tale of two Januaries By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD

his month marks 80 years since the establishment of the Nazi concentration (later, extermination) camp at Auschwitz in 1940. It is also the 75th anniversary of the camp’s liberation in 1945. In 1939, with the outbreak of war, the German Inspectorate of Concentration Camps was authorized to examine the possibility of setting up new camps. One of the first of these, located in southwestern Poland near the confluence of the Vistula and Soła Rivers, was to Dr. Paul Bartrop be built just outside the town of Oświęcim. In German the name was Auschwitz. This was initially to be a camp for Polish POWs. Auschwitz would ultimately serve as one of the epicenters of the Holocaust, with more Jews murdered there during the war than in any other location. Since the victims came from every part of Europe, and because Auschwitz operated longer than any other extermination camp, it has come to symbolize the horror of the Holocaust overall. It was on January 25, 1940, that the SS decided to construct a camp near Oświęcim. Then, on February 21, 1940, the Inspector of Concentration Camps, Richard Glücks, reported to Heinrich Himmler that a group of “former Polish artillery barracks” had been found that were suitable for further develop-

ment. The town of Auschwitz seemed the ideal location, though it had its objectionable side. Surrounded by open swampy moorland, it remained muddy for most of the year, it was unhealthy and malaria-infested, and in winter it turned bitterly cold. Severe winds swept down from the north, unimpeded by any natural obstacles on the Polish plain. It was flat, cold, wet, muddy, cheerless and colorless. There seemed little to recommend the area surrounding the little Silesian town. Despite this, on May 4, 1940, the first commandant, Rudolf Franz Hoess, began his task of constructing the new camp. Employing prisoners from other camps as slave labor, the compound was soon built. It received its initial batch of permanent inmates on July 14, 1940. Understanding the history of Auschwitz is a complex challenge. Initially it was established as a camp for Polish soldiers and political prisoners. Later, Soviet POWs were included, while Jews were added increasingly from mid-1941 onwards. Further, there was not a single Auschwitz, but rather three main camps – Auschwitz I, Auschwitz II (Birkenau) and Auschwitz III (Monowitz) – along with approximately 50 satellite camps located over a wide geographical region. In the winter of 1940-1941, German industrial conglomerate I.G. Farben chose Auschwitz as the site for the construction of a new plant. The avail-

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ability of a railroad junction and raw material, along with the chance to exploit slave labor, added to its allure. An arrangement was made between I.G. Farben and the SS, whereby the latter would provide the slave labor and I.G. Farben would pay for the use of the workers. At the same time, SS chief Heinrich Himmler ordered the camp system expanded to accommodate over 100,000 additional inmates. The camp would eventually become a vast complex covering 15 square miles, in which the SS, capitalizing on the use of slave labor, made a fortune as a result. Auschwitz, together with five other camps located by the Germans in Poland (Bełzec, Chełmno, Majdanek, Sobibór and Treblinka) altered the nature and course of concentration camp development. These were the Vernichtungslager, the death (or extermination) camps. Because of their existence, the image of the Nazi concentration camps was irrevocably transformed, such that all camps are now viewed as elaborate and gigantic factories created for the purpose of destroying human lives. The extermination camps were institutions designed to methodically and efficiently murder millions of people, specifically Jews. These mass murders took place in specially designed gas chambers. At Auschwitz, they employed crystallized hydrogen cyanide, which on contact with air, oxidized to become hydrocyanic (or prussic) acid gas, manufactured under the trade name Zyklon B. January 1940 therefore had a lot to answer for. But as the war progressed, and Soviet armies advanced toward Germany throughout the latter half of 1944, the position of Auschwitz seemed uncertain. In September 1944, Heinrich Himmler ordered Rudolf Hoess to

oversee the camp’s liquidation. On November 26, 1944, when delay threatened and the Soviets drew nearer, Himmler issued another order concerning the destruction of Auschwitz. After considerable administrative difficulties, the complete evacuation of the complex was ordered for January 17, 1945. The next day, some 22,000 men and women left the camp, and the day after that, a further 3,500 were evacuated. They were about all that was left of a camp complex which at one time could boast a population of possibly 200,000. The earliest date of free contact with Soviet forces was January 22, 1945. When the camp was formally occupied two days later, there were only 2,819 survivors left at Auschwitz. The prisoners had been evacuated in the face of Soviet progress. The Russians were so close while the prisoners were marching away that the sounds of battle could be clearly distinguished. The survivors suffered terribly during the forced marches that took them toward the west, and countless numbers perished. Discussion of these Death Marches opens a new dimension relating to the story, however, and will await another column at a different time. The name Auschwitz evokes many things. What is often overlooked, however, are the bookend dates – January 1940 and January 1945 – that separate what happened in the middle. Simultaneously the world’s largest murder site and cemetery, the phenomenon of Auschwitz had to begin somewhere. Fortunately, after a herculean effort, it also ended, 75 years ago this month. Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of History and the Dir. 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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The hora and Israeli folk dance By Arlene Stolnitz

ho can resist joining a hora at a traditional Jewish wedding? In my case, when I hear those first notes, the music speaks to my soul. It’s as if I am being called to the dance floor by some mysterious and enigmatic sound that draws me in! Ty p i c a l l y set to a kind of klezmer-style music, the custom of lifting the Arlene Stolnitz newly married couple on chairs is exhilarating as well as often scary! At Orthodox weddings, men and women dance separately, whereas in Conservative, Reform and Liberal movements there is no separation. The hora, well known in many Eastern European cultures, each in different forms, and known throughout the Jewish Diaspora, became the symbol of the rebirth of the State of Israel and the foundation of Israeli folk dance. Performed in a circle with participants interlocking hands, the dance is set to Israeli music and was often performed in kibbutzim, often continuing for hours. “Tzena, Tzena” and “Hava Nagila” are the tunes we hear most often at celebrations today. Yet there are many other hora songs made popular by the Israeli Folk Dance Movement. A few well-known dance songs include “Siman Tov,” “Chiribim, Chiribom” and “Yismehu Hashamayim.” Other lessknown but equally joyous songs are “Tarras Freilach” and “Naphtaly’s Freilach.” But “Tzena, Tzena” and “Hava Nagila” are the most familiar to us. “Tzena, Tzena” was written in 1941 by Issachar Miron, a Polish emigrant who wrote the song while serving in the Jewish Brigade of the British Forces. Tzena, tzena, tzena, tzena ha-banot u-r’ena ħayalim ba-mosheva/ Al na, Al na, Al na, Al na, al na titħab’ena /Mi-ben ħayil, ish tzava. Go out, go out, go out girls and see the soldiers in the moshav (farming community) Do not, do not,do not hide yourself away from a virtuous man (a pun on the word for soldier), an army man.

In the 1950s, the folk singing group The Weavers, and later Pete Seeger, recorded the song and, for the first time, Americans were introduced to a sense of what Israel was about: “A land brimming with tanned and muscular kibbutznik soldiers singing, dancing the hora and making the desert bloom.” It was an idealistic view of Israel which ignored the malaria-infested swamps and tent settlements that housed Mizrahi Jews. It glorified the men and women who “fight and plant and love.” And its upbeat rhythm provided the perfect backdrop for the emergence of Israeli folk dance in the ’40s. “Hava Nagila,” no less popular as a hora tune, has a less defined past. It is thought to have originated in Eastern Europe as a niggun, or mystical musical Hasidic prayer, in the mid-18th or 19th centuries. Years later it emerged in Palestine and was transcribed by famed musicologist Abraham Zvi Idelsohn, who added the Hebrew text we sing today. Hava nagila, hava nagila/ Hava nagila ve-nismeha/ Hava neranena, Hava neranana/ Hava neranena venismeha Let us rejoice, let us rejoice and be glad, let us sing, let us sing and be glad. “Hava Nagila” has been called “the Jewish party song that belongs to the world.” Recorded by Harry Belafonte, Chubby Checker and many others, the song emphasizes joy and community with its enticing beat. It’s hard to imagine a Jewish wedding without it. Personally, I look forward to my next wedding invitation, and especially seeing the bride and groom precariously hoisted up on chairs as part of the dance! Hopefully, it won’t be too long for that invite. I can hear the strains of the hora being played and can’t wait to get up and dance the hora while I am still able. Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sarasota Jewish Chorale, is a member of the Jewish Congregation of Venice. A retired educator from Rochester, New York, she has sung in choral groups for over 25 years and also sings in The Venice Chorale. Her interest in the preservation of Jewish music of all kinds has led to this series of articles on Jewish Folk Music in the Diaspora.

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January 2020

JEWISH INTEREST

Wasserman Schultz: Restore rights of Holocaust-era insurance policy beneficiaries

ashington, D.C. – November 25, 2019 – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) has filed bipartisan legislation to restore the rights of Holocaust-era insurance beneficiaries to help recover billions in unclaimed payments left behind amid the chaos and destruction after World War II. Due to federal court rulings and a failure by insurance companies to adequately publish the names of recipients and pay these claims, 97 percent of the approximately 800,000 policies held in 1938 have yet to be honored. The insurers’ unreasonable demands that death certificates and original policy paperwork be produced is all but impossible for survivors who, at the time, had just survived death camps, forced relocations, torture and death marches. “Victims of the Holocaust and their families should be compensated for unpaid policies that were specifically set aside for times of trouble –

not to enhance the profit margins for the insurance companies,” Wasserman Schultz said. “This legislation would provide the critically important financial support to these victims who were forced to endure the worst that humanity has inflicted on a people.” The Holocaust Insurance Accountability Act of 2019 was introduced Friday by Wasserman Schultz and U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin (NY-1). A Senate companion bill was recently introduced by Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV). Specifically, the Wasserman Schultz and Zeldin legislation would: Validate state laws requiring insurers to publish policy holder information Establish a federal cause of action in U.S. courts to ensure Holocaust survivors and heirs have access to U.S. courts Provide a 10-year period of time for cases to be brought after the date of enactment

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K’zohar Ha-Ivrit Parasha – Portion By Dr. Rachel Zohar Dulin

he word parasha (pl. parashot) is an important term in Jewish parlance. Parasha (also known as sidra), refers to a selection from the Torah that is read at every Shabbat service throughout the year. In essence, 54 parashot are read throughout the year, but the number is flexible to allow readings on special occasions, such as Dr. Rachel Dulin holidays and during leap years. Reading the parasha injects a biblical context to the service and, as such, makes the Torah an integral part of our Jewish ritual life. Indeed, the Torah is an etz chayim, “a tree of life for those who uphold her,” and every parasha is like a branch of this precious tree. Why do we call the selection parasha? The word parasha has several meanings in Hebrew depending upon context. Parasha can mean ‘chapter,’ ‘section,’ ‘portion,’ as well as ‘history,’ ‘annals,’ ‘explanation,’ ‘affair,’ ‘episode’ and ‘case.’ The reason for the multiple meanings for parasha lies in the fact that the word is derived from the verb parash, which also has several meanings. The verb parash means ‘separate,’ ‘keep aloof,’ ‘abstain’ and ‘retire.’ Some scholars believe that the verbs ‘divide,’ ‘clarify’ and ‘interpret’ are also based in the same stem. Parasha, then, means a ‘portion’ or ‘section.’ Some might argue that the division into smaller portions of the large Text was done for the sake of clarification, as small parashot of readings are easier to absorb and comprehend. Tradition has it that reading from the Text began as early as Moses’ time (Dtr. 31:10-13). According to the Book of Nehemiah (ch 8), Ezra

reinstated the reading of Torah in public already in the Persian era at the return to Zion (537 B.C.E). The Mishnah, too, requires reading portions of the Torah, only here the custom was to read the Text in Hebrew and in translation as well (B’rakhot 8a). The Babylonian Jewry set the order of parashot to be read, which became the norm. Maimonides solidified a systematic order to the reading, an order followed to this day (Mishneh Torah 8). It is not surprising that the verb parash and the noun parasha are at the center of many idioms and terms in Hebrew. We will mention but a few. The term perush la-Torah means ‘an interpretation of the Torah,’ such as perush Rashi, for example. The term bim-pho-rsh is a strong expression of ‘an explicit and clear message,’ whereas lo mit-pa-resh be-kah-lut literally ‘cannot be explained easily’ and conveys the exact opposite. As for the word parasha, we should mention the term parashat ha-sha-vu-ah, the ‘reading portion for the week.’ Also, the terms parashat d’ra-khim, literally ‘the crossroads,’ and parashat ma-yim, meaning ‘a water shed,’ come to mind. Last, but not least, we will mention the idiom eruv par-shi-yot, which literally means ‘misplacement of biblical verses or chapters,’ and implies confusion and muddle. As we all stand on parashat d’rakhim, the crossroads of a New Year, I wish all our readers a healthy and peaceful year. May we take the time to glance periodically at parashat ha-shavua, the biblical reading of the week, and may the perush given to it by the sages enrich our days. Happy New Year 2020. Dr. Rachel Zohar Dulin is a professor of biblical literature at Spertus College in Chicago, and a retired adjunct professor of Hebrew and Bible at New College in Sarasota.

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ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD

a Stars of David

By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist

Editor’s note: Persons in BOLD CAPS are deemed by Nate Bloom to be Jewish n of-for the purpose of the column. Persons identified as Jewish have at least one Jewot beish parent and were not raised in a faith other than Judaism – and don’t identify hultzwith a faith other than Judaism as an adult. Converts to Judaism, of course, are also identified as Jewish. Golden Globe Nominations The 2020 Golden Globe awards will air on NBC on Sunday, January 5 at 8:00 p.m. This is a very good year for Jewish nominees. Here goes: ACTING: Lead actor, drama film: JOAQUIN PHOENIX, 45, Joker (his mother is Jewish and he identifies as Jewish); Lead actress, drama film: SCARLETT JOHANSSON, 35, Marriage Story (exact same background as Phoenix); Lead actress, comedy film: BEANIE FELDSTEIN, 26, Booksmart; Lead actor, TV comedy series: MICHAEL DOUGLAS, 75, The Kominsky Method, and BEN PLATT, 26, The Politician, and PAUL RUDD, 50, Living with Yourself; Lead actress, comedy series: NATASHA LYONNE, 40, Russian Doll; Lead actress: miniseries/TV movie: JOEY KING, 20, The Act; Lead actor, TV mini-series/ movie: SACHA BARON COHEN, 48, The Spy (he played Israeli Mossad agent ELI COHEN); Supporting actor, TV series/mini-series/TV film: ALAN ARKIN, 85, The Kominsky Method, and HENRY WINKLER, 74, Barry; Supporting actress, TV series/mini-series/TV film: PATRICIA ARQUETTE, 51, The Act. DIRECTING/WRITING/MUSIC: Director, film (any genre): SAM MENDES, 54, 1917 (his mother was Jewish), and TODD PHILLIPS, 49, Joker; Screenplay, film: NOAH BAUMBACH, 50, Marriage Story (father Jewish, identifies as Jewish); Original film score: RANDY NEWMAN, 76, Marriage Story (note: Both of his parents were Jewish. Randy’s

first cousin, Thomas Newman, who was raised in his mother’s Christian faith, is also nominated for best score). BEST FILM awards: The best film and best TV awards are given to the principal producers. My practice is to note if a “best” nominee has a Jewish director or writer. They are usually nominated producers, too. Best drama film: 1917, Sam Mendes (directed/ wrote/produced); and Marriage Story, Noah Baumbach (directed/wrote/ produced), and Joker, Todd Phillips (directed, co-wrote and produced. His co-writer is STEVE SILVER, 60ish. Best comedy/musical film: Jojo Rabbit, Taikia Waititi, 44 (directed/wrote). Special note: This half-Polynesian director has one Jewish maternal greatgrandfather. His background is often mis-reported because his mother identifies as Jewish and he refers to her as Jewish. I don’t “count” him as Jewish. Best animated film: The Lion King, JON FAVREAU, 54 (director, producer), with JEFF NATHANSON, 54 (The Lion King screenplay). BEST TV AWARDS: Best TV drama series: The Crown, PETER MORGAN, 56 (produced and wrote. His father was Jewish.); Best comedy/ musical TV series: The Kominsky Method, CHUCK LORRE, 67 (writer, producer, series creator), and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, AMY SHERMAN-PALLADINO, 54 (series creator, writer, producer. Her father was Jewish and she identifies as Jewish.), and The Politician”, BRAD FALCHUK, 54 (series co-creator and producer).

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So here’s the deal: Write Bloom at nteibloom@aol.com and enclose a phone number. Nate will then contact you about starting a limited search. If that goes well, additional and more extensive searches are possible. The first search fee is no more than $100. No upfront cost. Also, several of this newspaper’s readers have asked Bloom to locate friends and family members from their past, and that’s worked out great for them. So contact him about this as well. Best TV mini-series: All five nominated series have a Jewish connection. Catch-22, GRANT HESLOV, 56 (co-producer and co-directer. The series is based on the novel by the late JOSEPH HELLER.); Chernobyl, CRAIG MAZIN, 48 (series creator, writer, producer); Fosse/Verdon, STEVEN LEVENSON, 35 (co-creater and co-writer); The Loudest Voice in the Room, GABRIEL SHERMAN, 40 (wrote the book the series was based upon, produced series, wrote some episodes); Unbelievable, AYELET WALDMAN, 54, and MICHAEL

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January 2020

Bring light into the world From the Bimah Rabbi Michael Werbow Temple Beth Sholom

appy New Year! I hope everyone has enjoyed their Chanukah celebrations and that you all found much joy and light during a time of the year that is the darkest and coldest. We now take that light that we all created to head out of the darkness and to spread the light to many other areas of our community. Often times, in Judaism, people link one celebration to another. After Sukkot, people will make a liquor out of the etrog that they can drink on Purim, or save the palm from the lulav to use to burn the chametz on Passover. Following Yom Kippur, some people head right home to start building their sukkah, linking celebrations one to another. We can link our religious and secular holidays together as well. I suggest linking Chanukah with New Year’s Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Hopefully, Chanukah stirred up for you ideas of how you can bring light into the world. Lighting candles is how we respond religiously to the darkness in the world. Unfortunately, that is not enough.

There are so many personal and communal experiences that might engulf us in darkness. The loss of a loved one, a trying family situation, financial difficulties or health issues may darken our world. Similarly, contemplating environmental issues, warfare and political strife also engulfs us in darkness. How do we bring light to these areas of our life? One way is to use the light of Chanukah coupled with the making of resolutions on New Year’s Day to turn Martin Luther King Jr. Day into a day of service and action. It is not enough to think about what needs to be done. We must act. The Ten Commandments are mentioned twice in the Torah. In Exodus we are told to “Remember the Sabbath,” and in Deuteronomy we are told to “Observe the Sabbath.” The question is asked, “Why are there differences in the two versions of the Ten Commandments?” An answer given by the rabbis is that both remembrance and action are needed. Neither works alone. It is not enough to think about how we can make a difference. We need to act on these thoughts. Making the resolution to volunteer, to support a charitable organization or to assist someone in need is a great way to start the New Year. Then, implementing that resolution as soon as possible is a way to make sure you don’t forget it and can be a way to set a positive tone for the year ahead. May 2020 be a year of light for you and your families as we all bring light into the world.

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COMMENTARY

A touching symphonic moment By Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz, Community Chaplain

owadays there is never a shortage of news. This is due to the abundance of cable television channels and, of course, the internet. Additionally, a constant stream of happenings from family and friends located throughout the world is constantly being sent to our Facebook feed. In fact, there are so many stories and photos on it that we have to speed through them just to keep up. Nevertheless, Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz in spite of this digital onslaught, there are still many worthy events that go unreported. I share one with you here. Earlier this year, The Jewish Federations of North America awarded a special grant enabling both JFCS of the Suncoast and Gulf Coast JFCS (Clearwater) to develop innovative wellness programming for Holocaust survivors. In her role as project coordinator for our area, Anna Eckstein has organized a myriad of activities for survivors such as music performances, poetry readings, an elder-law workshop, herbal medicine demonstration, and presentations on Jewish topics by local rabbis. In October, members of the North Port survivor group inquired if Anna could arrange for them to attend a concert by the North Port Symphony. Because funds are not available to pay the cost for such an outing, Anna spoke to the symphony’s executive director who generously provided 15 free tickets to a performance in November and said the group’s presence would be announced from the stage. However, on the night of the concert, when the audience was apprised of the special guests in attendance, the North Port survivors weren’t announced among them. Since the group had looked forward to being recognized, Anna sought out the executive director during intermission to ask why. Without explanation, he reassured

her that they had not been forgotten but would be announced at the conclusion of the concert, just before the encore. Indeed, when the last scheduled piece ended and the audience’s applause had brought conductor Robert Romanski back to the stage, he made special mention of the group. This prompted the audience to offer a standing ovation with several people coming over to the survivors to convey their regard. The conductor then shared a story about when, at the age of 35, he accompanied his mother to a deposition about a car accident she’d been involved in. Under oath, her revelation that she’d been married prior to her marriage to the conductor’s father shocked him. Later, she recounted that her father, a German cab driver, convinced an American serviceman to meet his daughter, whom he then married. The two subsequently moved to the United States. Romanski indicated that if not for that marriage, his mother would probably not have survived the war. He expressed deep respect for what the survivors had endured in escaping the cruel fate so many others suffered. Following this, Romanski proceeded to lead the symphony in the playing of John Williams’ haunting, piercingly inspiring theme to Schindler’s List. Several of the survivors wept. They were tears of sadness for friends and family that had been lost, but also of pride and gratitude for the new life they have found in America. Though this encore had been planned for the concert long before Anna called the symphony’s executive director, it felt as if it had been foreordained because, as the Baal Shem Tov famously asserted, “There are no coincidences.” Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz serves as a Community Chaplain and Director of JFCS’s Jewish Healing Program. His position is underwritten by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

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January 2020

COMMENTARY

Jewish values

otten cone the

From the Bimah

uled apobert madeRabbi Jennifer Singer ThisCongregation Kol HaNeshama andf someone asked you what is the commost important Jewish value, what nvey would you say? Many people quote Hillel’s reply when he was asked to exstory com-plain Judaism while standing on one boutfoot: “That which is hateful to you, do d in.not do to another.” That’s important, but I don’t think he’d ge toit covers enough situations. And behim.cause it is voiced in the negative, I find ther,it less than inspiring. I want a positive d anvalue that I can use to guide me. So what about pikuach nefesh, savhis ing another’s life? This is so important The nitedthat we can break virtually any other commandment in order to save somet forone’s life. If I was in the medical field rob-this might be helpful, but in most of Heour everyday lives we don’t get many theopportunities to observe this mitzvah. While thinking about this, I was g the intrigued when a non-Jewish friend eed-asked me to explain the word tzedek, yingwhich he translated as righteousness. nglyWhile this is true, generally Jews unList.derstand the word to mean justice. The Theyfirst phrase that always comes to mind andfor me is tzedek, tzedek tirdof – “juso oftice, justice you shall pursue” – from lifeDeuteronomy. And I realized that this is my anbeenswer. Tzedek, justice, is the Jewish valeforeue that I hold dearest, a universal value utivethat we can use to guide our lives on a fore-daily basis.

hem e no

as a or of His wish

Jews pursue justice through tzedakah, gemilut chesadim, mitzvot and Torah. Tzedakah is monetary gifts in support of people and institutions who are in need. It is not the same as charity, which is voluntary. We are commanded to remember those who need our help and to reach out to them. Even the poorest among us are expected to give tzedakah, even if the amount is miniscule. It is a way to empower everyone to be an active part of a community that takes care of each other. Gemilut chesadim are acts of loving kindness. This engages us on another level than tzedakah does, asking us to get directly involved in helping others, whether on a large scale (serving on the board of a non-profit) or a

small scale (giving to a food pantry). Pursuing justice through gemilut chesadim also involves thinking about the greater good, the social justice issues of our society. It takes us beyond ourselves and our own backyards to the needs of the larger community and those of our planet. Mitzvot are the commandments. We often think of the word mitzvah as meaning a good deed, but that is only part of it. Living a mitzvah-centered life means fulfilling God’s commandments by living according to high ethical and moral standards. And Torah? Judaism asks us to engage with our sacred texts and their messages for our entire lives – to remind ourselves of our obligations to ourselves, our families and our communities.

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The underlying theme of justice in Judaism has to do with community and relationships. Justice involves obligations that we have to one another, and to the Divine. Tzedek reminds us that we are part of something greater than ourselves. We find meaning in relationships, not abstract images or concepts. We find God in the minutia of our lives, in love and laughter, in the joys and the sorrows that we share. And when we are in a relationship, when we understand that we are part of something greater than ourselves, tzedek comes easily. Tzedek, tzedek tirdof – Justice, justice you shall pursue. Not seek, but pursue. May we be blessed to remember this sacred task.

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January 2020

COMMENTARY

Arab protests challenge Iran’s Middle East desires By Rabbi Howard A. Simon

ecent mass protests in Iraq and pictures of Qassem Soleimani, Iran’s Lebanon pose a major threat to famous commander and a frequent Iran’s desire to exert greater invisitor to Iraq. These actions have been fluence and control in both countries. followed by Iraqi anti-government proIraqi protesters have attacked the Iratesters storming Martyrs’ Bridge over nian consulate in the city of the Tigris River. TwentyKarbala. Protesters scaled nine people were woundthe walls carrying Iraqi ed after being attacked by flags proclaiming, “Iran batons and exposed to tear shall not rule this country gas. Tens of thousands of or its people.” people have marched in In the wake of these Baghdad protesting wideprotests, Iraq’s Prime Minspread corruption, lack ister, Adel Abdul-Mahdi, of employment and poor pledged to resign in the basic services. hope that this would temIn Lebanon, Prime Rabbi Howard A. Simon per the actions of those atMinister Saad Hariri retacking his leadership. This has not had signed over the continued protests in the desired effect, testified to by the his country. The protesters demanded continual protests in Baghdad, where changes to a political system that has shouts went up, “Iran out, out.” Billbeen in power for years dividing auboards featuring Iranian leaders were thority between Christians, Sunnis torn down and shoes were thrown at and Shiites. A major part of the Shiite

leadership is Hezbollah, a military group that is Iran’s closest partner in the region and a major threat to Israel. The opposition groups feel too much power rests with Hezbollah and that this has caused many of the economic and social problems that affect the lives of Lebanon’s population. The result of the actions in the Middle East have led Jasmine ElGamal, a non-resident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, a non-partisan Washington think tank, to say, “What’s happening in the Middle East should be a wake-up call. We should learn from this round of protests that you cannot get away with subjugating and prosecuting and humiliating the people you are elected to serve. Iran’s leadership views the unrest in both Iraq and Lebanon as a major threat to their desire to have greater influence throughout the Middle East. Concerns over these protests and the reaction of the United States, France, the European Union and Great Britain to Iran’s decision to resume uranium enrichment at its Fordow site has only made matters more difficult for Iran, thus curtailing its goal to dominate the area and extend its authority

By H

of Is and presence in the Middle East. Saudiity. H Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emir-able ates, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait haverequ joined the U.S. in imposing sanctionsMin H on a financing network controlled by Iran’s military and several men linked to the Tehran-backed Hezbollah group. The world observes these events, monitors the changes in these countries and asks the following questions: Will the governments of Iraq and Lebanon change their leadership and how will they govern their people? What will Iran’s actions be in the face of possible changes in the two countries? Will the H influence of Iran be diminished be-ed t 2019 cause of these protests? Questions abound and, in time, an-knew swers will be forthcoming – answersparti that could change the very structure ofhead life in this ever-so-volatile part of theter-L Blue world. Rabbi Howard A. Simon is the found-Arab ing chair of the Robert and Esther(10 o Heller Community Relations Commit-for G tee, formerly known as the Heller IAI. Avig I in th Sara the W E A LT H A D V I S O R Y but third exist JOSEPH M. FELDMAN, CFP® push CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ PROFESSIONAL gove A 941.260.9174 | JFELDMAN@FELDMANWA.COM | www.feldmanwa.com ber 2 N Letters Policy | | the INVESTMENTS FINANCIAL PLANNING INSURANCE 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 USPS tried SECURITIES OFFERED THROUGH VALMARK SECURITIES, INC. MEMBER FINRA, SIPC. INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES OFFERED THROUGH VALMARK ADVISERS, INC., A SEC REGISTERED INVESTMENT ADVISOR. 130 SPRINGSIDE DRIVE, AKRON, OH 44333. 800-765-5201. FELDMAN WEALTH or email (jewishnews18@gmail.com). Not all letters will be published. Letters may be agre ADVISORY, LLC IS A SEPARATE ENTITY FROM VALMARK SECURITIES, INC. AND VALMARK ADVISERS, INC. edited for length and content. Neta the t tigat with tion. L fuse yahu Cent T gove may We build bridges between people by visiting synagogues, churches and civic have groups to make presentations about Israel, anti-Semitism and the Boycott, But It’s Divestment and Sanctions movement (BDS). In addition, we send clergy Left and community members on missions to Israel to experience and learn will about the land while forging friendships that deepen and continue H ation back home in Sarasota-Manatee. licly with a bri ^ Builds Bridges has l a de ^ Advocates through to el elect Government Affairs a go ^ Remembers the Holocaust COMMUNITY RELATIONS COMMITTEE tany for a ^ Supports Hillel anot fixed midtion. enou Hillel is the “Jewish Home Away from Home” for Jewish date a bre students in college. Your CRC and Federation support vote Gulf Coast Hillel in its pursuit to create meaningful I and engaging holiday and educational programs ernm plac on local college campuses. yahu hold have and HELLER CRC’S MISSION abse To build relationships within tion ing a the Jewish and non-Jewish indic communities and to advance pect Liku common interests through T education and advocacy. repre but a

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January 2020

COMMENTARY

35A

Formation of Israeli government remains uncertain By Harold M. Halpern

n April 9, 2019, elections were held for the 120-member Knesset. Never in the history of Israel has any party won a majority. However, the parties were always able to negotiate an agreement for the required 61 votes to designate a Prime Minister and a government. However, in April, the 61 votes couldn’t be negotiated. This was the first time there was a failure of negotiation. The Knesset dissolved. A new second election was called for September. Harold Halpern Israelis elected their Knesset on September 17, 2019. Very soon after the election, we knew the results. The Right group of parties, led by Benjamin Netanyahu, head of Likud, had 55 votes. The Center-Left, led by Benny Gantz, head of Blue-White, had 44 votes. The Israeli Arab coalition (the Joint List) had 13 (10 of which they said would be voted for Gantz), and Yisrael Beiteinu led by Avigdor Liberman had eight votes. In both my recent monthly columns in this paper, and in my columns in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, I wrote of the disparate positions of the parties but felt that the publics distaste for a third election and the critical social and existential needs of the country would push the parties to a unity coalition government. As I write this column on November 25, there has been no success. Netanyahu tried but failed to get the required 61 votes. Next, Gantz tried and failed. Netanyahu and Gantz agreed to rotate as Prime Minister but Netanyahu demanded he go first. At the time, Netanyahu was under investigation for crimes. Gantz refused to sit with a Prime Minister under investigation. Liberman had the key but he refused to vote for either Gantz or Netanyahu, and only for a coalition of Right, Center-Left and his party. There is one last gasp to form a government. Any 61 Knesset members may designate a Prime Minister. They have until mid-December to do this. But from where commeth the votes? It’s unlikely any member of CenterLeft, Yisrael Beiteinu or Joint coalition will sign up for Netanyahu. However, there is a new consideration. Netanyahu has now been publicly notified that he will be charged with three crimes, namely: accepting a bribe, fraud and breach of trust. This has led to a stirring within his party and a demand for a primary within Likud to elect its leader. If a new leader were elected, Gantz will join a coalition and a government would be formed. Netanyahu has agreed to a primary but for a time after mid-December when another and third election must be fixed. Any change in leadership after mid-December will not avoid the election. So the only possibility is if there’s enough pressure to change the primary date or if there’s an act of courage from a breakaway from a group of Likud to vote for Gantz. Not likely. If the last gasp effort to form a government fails, a third election will take place in March. In the interim, Netanyahu remains as Prime Minister as the holdover Prime Minister. He doesn’t have to resign except if he is convicted, and he doesn’t need to take a leave of absence. The outcome of a third election may shed no more light on forming a new government. Netanyahu has indicated he will run again, fully expecting to be running as the reelected Likud leader. The inability to agree to a coalition represents not only the desire for power but also the divisions in Israel society:

religious involvement in daily lives of Israelis, differences over whether much of the West Bank should be incorporated into Israel proper, social needs, the authority of the Supreme Court and protection of democracy. The fear is that these divisions may lead to another

uncertain third election result. My hope remains that by the time of my next column, a way will be found to rise above politics and that I will report courageous steps taken to untie the Gordian knot. Harold M. Halpern, a retired attor-

ney living for 12 years in Lakewood Ranch, is a board member of the American Association of Jewish lawyers and Justices, and a board member of the Sarasota Chapter of the American Jewish Committee.

Congregation Kol HaNeshama Jewish Without Labels At Kol HaNeshama, Rabbi Jennifer Singer offers uplifting, participatory services. We sing prayers in Hebrew and English, combining traditional liturgy with contemporary alternatives. Friday evening services are filled with music. More contemplative Saturday mornings include Torah, discussion, and a convivial potluck dairy lunch. We celebrate holidays together, and we share activities: Books & Bagels, classes, social action, Jewish meditation, Jewish Cinema Club, Shabbat-at-Home, and more.

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36A

January 2020

How do we stay warm? Education Corner By Chaya Rivka Schmerling

y family members up north pretend they don’t like me when I send them pictures of my kids relaxing at the pool. It’s during this time of year when the temperatures drop quite low in the northeast, causing people to experience a numbing cold that literally brings them to a standstill. Here in beautiful Florida, it is not that bad, but we do get to taste some of that cool weather. On these types of days, it brings everyone to a numbing state of inaction. We like to stay home, stay warm, and not go out and get things done. We are sort of frozen into a state of nothingness. This experience can give us an appreciation for why coldness is a good description for a state of disconnect from G-d and holiness. G-dliness is warmth and light, as the verse states (Deuteronomy 4:24), “for the L-rd your G-d is a consuming fire.” Coldness reflects the notion of apathy and indifference along with a lack of motivation to get anything done. One of the biggest challenges that faces the Jewish world today is apathy – not ignorance, misconceptions or even misguidance. When someone is misguided but still passionate about his or her Judaism, their searching will lead them to the right conclusions. But if we are apathetic to our Jewishness, then we don’t even care to investigate how this can apply in our lives. We simply don’t care. So how do we stay warm? How

do we impart to our youth the joy of our heritage and the important values that Judaism brings to the table? How do we instill in our children to remain enthusiastic and passionate about what is really important in life? In the olden days, a home had a furnace in the center room that would provide warmth to the whole house. Obviously, the closer a room was to the furnace, the warmer it would be. In order to ensure that the outer rooms of the house would be warm, the furnace in the inner room had to be stoked to a very high temperature. If the furnace would only be warm, then the outer rooms would be cold. But if the furnace was fiery hot, then the outer rooms would at least be warm. The furnace and the inner room represent the period of education and youth. It is symbolic of the time when a child is carefree and young, and free to absorb all of life’s important messages. The outer rooms represent the period of adulthood, when our responsibilities in life distract us from learning new things or taking the time to study the Torah and its wisdom. If the furnace is steaming hot – meaning, if our time of youth and education is fiery and steaming – then some of that warmth will be retained in our later years. A famous rabbi once said, “Your child will care about the things that you are truly passionate about.” In other words, whatever our children see us getting excited about, that will be the message to them about what is important in life. We may want to ask ourselves: Do our children see our anger over the glass cup that they broke at the dinner table, or our outrage at the guy who just cut us off through a red light? Or do they see us beam with pride and joy over the kindness that they had just performed? Do they witness our

FOCUS ON YOUTH

stressed-out moods over financial pressures, or do they see our excitement in preparing a Shabbat dinner? What messages are we giving them about what is truly important to us? What an opportunity we have during this small pocket of time. When the children are young, it is so important to take the time to instill in them the important values that Judaism teaches us. We need to encourage our youth to be spiritual, and discuss their concerns and take their questions seriously. We

need to show them not to be afraid to ask. We don’t need to have all the answers. We can study together with our children. This not only creates a won-ners derful bonding time, it also brings theNetw Soci entire family together. As the temperature cools down, lettour us take the time to reflect on how wean a can keep the flame of Judaism aliveshar well and burning strongly. Chaya Rivka Schmerling is the Hebrewnew W School Director at Chabad of Venice & North Port.

Sarasota BBYO

This program is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee By Jessica Zimmerman, Associate Regional Dir., North Florida Region

n November, Sarasota BBYO teens participate in the fun? Well, lucky for came together with teens from all you, NFR’s next regional convention,som over North Florida Region (NFR) MIT/AIT LTI (Member in Training/The for FallCon (Fall Convention) in ElAleph in Training Leadership TrainingEarl lenton. FallCon included teen-led Institute) takes place the weekend ofnu-E Jewish education January 17-19. MIT/AIT LTI not onlywith and identity proprovides leadership training to all teenson F gramming over in attendance, it also specifically looks A the course of three to welcome new members to the foldThan days. We celebratwith designated programming to intro-for c ed Shabbat, gathduce them to BBYO. Reach out to meSusa ered around the directly if you are interested in joiningThe bonfire for smores, Sarasota BBYO at the convention. by e learned about JewThe Sarasota BBYO board is in theThe Jessica Zimmerman ish identity and process of preparing its Spring Termcostu culture globally, participated in AZAA Calendar. To be added to our emailThan and BBGG sports programming, and list and receive updates, email me at “ so much more. What truly made the jesszimmerman@bbyo.org. I hope tohard convention so unique was the diverhear from you and welcome you topare sity of teens represented throughout BBYO Sarasota. Early our region and their muLibe tual passion for exploring spok what Judaism means to abou them. “ With all this talk sang about the convention, Pavi you might be thinking, a tu when is the next conHok BBGs (B’Nai Brith Girls) of NFR at FallCon vention and how can I and

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FOCUS ON YOUTH

37A

Community Day students visit local Islamic Society

ecently, a group of Hershorin id to Schiff Community Day School e anmiddle school students, in parth our won-nership with the Women’s Interfaith s theNetwork (WIN), visited the Islamic Society of Sarasota and Bradenton to n, lettour its school and mosque, and view w wean afternoon prayer. It was a day of alivesharing – faith, traditions and food – as well as an opportunity to experience brewnew perspectives. WIN is a group of women repce &

resenting a variety of religious orientations as well as indigenous and spiritual traditions. The group works to eradicate stereotypes and prejudice in order to promote our common humanity and build a peaceful world. Community Day students have enjoyed and benefited from getting together with WIN for the past four years. WIN’s founder and chair, Arlene Pearlman, helped to pave the way for the students’ visit. They enjoyed tour-

ing the school and mosque, and learning about the Islamic religion and traditions, followed by the afternoon prayer. The children gathered for photos and cookies afterward. “At Community Day, while we are a Jewish day school, purposeful pluralism is at the heart of our educational philosophy,” said Head of School Dan Ceaser. “Studies have proven that students in diverse learning environments are much more likely to understand

issues and impacts of social injustice, and display lower levels of prejudice throughout their lifetime. We are so grateful to the Women’s Interfaith Network for helping to arrange this wonderful experience, and to the Islamic Society for opening its mosque and school to our students.” Community Day is looking forward to hosting students and teachers from the Islamic Society school, and a few of the WIN women, in January.

Preschoolers enjoy Thanksgiving Feast

hanksgiving is a wonderful time of the year to gather with friends and family – and enjoy some delicious food at the same time! The preschoolers of the Susan Schwaid Early Learning Center at Temple Emanu-El pulled this off very successfully with their annual Thanksgiving Feast on Friday, November 8. A much-loved tradition, the Thanksgiving Feast is a special day for children, families and staff of the Susan Schwaid Early Learning Center. The Feast opens with a performance by each class of a song and dance. The children also wear T-shirts and costumes that they created just for the Thanksgiving Feast. “The children worked extremely hard to perform for parents and grandparents alike,” stated Susan Schwaid Early Learning Center staffer Tammy Libera. “They practiced their songs and spoke about what Thanksgiving is all about and what they are thankful for. “To kick off the performance they sang ‘Buenos Dias,’ followed by ‘Pavo Pavito Pavo,’ a Spanish song about a turkey,” she added. “‘The Turkey Hokey-Pokey,’ ‘Do the Turkey Hop’ and ‘All You Turkeys Dance Around’ concluded the performance.” Following the show, a potluck lunch featuring Thanksgiving foods as well as the favorite foods of preschool families was served, along with an abundance of beautiful homemade des-

serts. “During this time, families got to eat together, chat with old friends and make some new friends,” Libera said. “The Susan Schwaid Early Learning Center at Temple Emanu-El is truly blessed and truly thankful to have such an amazing group belong to our preschool family.”

Students and faculty from Community Day School and the Islamic Society, and members of the Women’s Interfaith Network pose for a photo after touring the school and mosque

Preschool8th grade The Goldbergs enjoy the Thanksgiving Feast

Where students learn, lead and laugh together The Community Day School difference:

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Aaron, Lauren and Mila Hoort at the Thanksgiving Feast

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F AM I L Y E V E N T Temple Emanu-El Presents

STRAWBERRY FIELDS TOT SHABBAT

Join us for a special morning at Hunsader Farms as we explore the playground, feed the animals, enjoy a train ride, and participate in age-appropriate Shabbat blessings, songs, and movement with Rabbi Michael Shefrin. Bring a picnic lunch if you’d like —we’ll treat you to an ice cream dessert! WHEN Saturday, February 29 11:00 am

WHERE Hunsader Farms 5500 Co. Rd. 675 Bradenton

COST This Event is FREE

38A

January 2020

FOCUS ON YOUTH

Temple Sinai Religious School projects and events By Gail Glickman

T for

2020 The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, in partnership with local philanthropists, helps Jewish children from Sarasota and Manatee counties attend not-for-profit camps.

emple Sinai Religious School’s 3rd grade Mitzvah Project, the intergenerational Thanksgiving tea party at Aravilla, on Sunday, November 17, was a huge success. The students had a contest to vote on the best Mitzvah Project idea. Celia Collier’s idea about performing acts of loving kindness, g’milut chasadim, was chosen. The students worked weeks preparing Thanksgiving cards and kindness rocks to give to the residents at Aravilla. Illene Dyrda, the Geveret for Grade 3, explained that the project emphasized important Jewish values and the concepts of the Golden Rule. The children sang Thanksgiving songs and served cookies and tea in residents’ specialty teacups. Each child was able to give a rock and a card to an attendee, and spend time mingling with the residents, having wonderful conversations with them. The residents of Aravilla delighted in the interaction with the young visitors. More and more joined in when they heard the excitement, and they can’t wait to do it again. The 2nd grade Mitzvah Project on Sunday, November 10, was another successful endeavor of Temple Sinai’s Religious School. The students worked with a Mote Marine Laboratory repre-

sentative to assist with their project of painting stakes for marking turtle nests. The children learned about protecting the sea turtle population and were able to paint 129 stakes! Deb Bryan, Youth Group Advisor, worked with the Youth Interns of Temple Sinai (YITS) to coordinate a fun Hawaiian Luau scavenger hunt Sunday, November 17 for grades 3-10. There were 29 attendees and the students enjoyed the fantastic event. The interns did a great job. They worked quickly, efficiently and effectively, and they were patient, helpful and friendly to all of their “guests.” Thanks to Sitar Ben-Herut and Maxwell Fletcher, CoProject Managers, and Bethany Leinweber, Sherry Thomas, Shelley Prada and Renee Fletcher for helping to make it all go smoothly!

Temple Sinai Religious School student Skate Segal presents Thanksgiving card to Aravilla resident at the intergenerational tea

For more information, contact Andrea Eiffert at 941.552.6308 or aeiffert@jfedsrq.org. Application window January 31, 2020 APPLY AT closes JFEDSRQ.org/Camp

Temple Sinai Religious School students at the Hawaiian Luau and Scavenger Hunt

READ—SING—DANCE—GATHER—GROW PJ Library® has partnered with The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee to provide families raising Jewish children with the gift of free, high-quality children’s books, music, and resources that foster deeper engagement with Jewish life in our community.

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F AM I L Y E V E N T Community Day School Presents

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Even the youngest members of our community can make a big impact. Join us for an afternoon of crafts, stories and inter-generational fun in the butterfly garden. WHEN Monday, January 20 2:30 - 4:00 pm

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January 2020

LIFE CYCLE ANNIVERSARIES

70th Edward & Carlyn Morris Temple Beth Sholom 65th Gerald & Mollie Sernau Temple Emanu-El 60th Martin & Iris Collins Temple Beth Sholom 60th Linda & Sy Sherr Temple Beth Sholom 55th Judith & James Feldman Temple Sinai 50th Barbara & Eugene Allen Temple Emanu-El 50th Margo & Barry Friedman Temple Sinai 50th Harold & Judith Kulman Temple Beth Sholom

50th Murray & Betty Miller Temple Emanu-El 40th Dr. Kenneth & Janis Gold Temple Emanu-El 30th Larry & Julie Fineberg Temple Emanu-El 10th James Protigal & Dr. Melissa Glantz Protigal Temple Emanu-El 5th Judy Glickman Lauder & Leonard Lauder Temple Emanu-El 5th Denise Hyman-Powers & William Powers Temple Emanu-El

39A

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B’NAI MITZVAH

Mia Rosenthal, daughter of Courtney & Eric Rosenthal, January 11, Temple Emanu-El Ben Vieira, son of Jaime Vieira, January 18, Temple Emanu-El Sydney Schwimmer, daughter of Pippa & Jeremy Schwimmer, January 25, Temple Emanu-El

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Sarasota-Manatee Chevra Kadisha

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Broker Participation is welcomed and encouraged. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE SELLER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A SELLER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Prices, availability, artist’s renderings, dimensions, specifications, and features are subject to change at any time without notice.

Celebrating Jewish Life in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Israel and the World FEDERATION NEWS

Years g 0 5 n i t a lebr

PUBLISHED BY

The Jewish Federation OF SARASOTA-MANATEE

THE LARRY & MARY GREENSPON FAMILY CAMPUS FOR JEWISH LIFE

January 2020 - Tevet/Shevat 5780

www.jfedsrq.org

Volume 50, Number 1

Jewish Happenings THURSDAY, JANUARY 2

SUNDAY, JANUARY 5

“At the Bottom of the Pot”

“New Year’s Romance on the Piano”

Explore the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s diﬀerent view of failure in this third class in the Rosh Chodesh Society Insight Course. Using past regretful choices is not only a springboard to greater places, but doing so is their purpose and where they inevitably must lead. This understanding reframes our view of past errors and empowers us to thrive – not despite, but – because of them. The class begins at noon at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. Course fee: $75, textbook included, or $18 per class. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 or rabbi@chabadofbradenton.com.

Celebrate the new year with soulful classical music. Internationally acclaimed Russian-Israeli piano virtuosa Eleonora Lvov, winner of many prestigious competitions, popular recording artist and teacher, plays most romantic works by Chopin, Liszt, Beethoven, Rachmaninov and Gershwin. Experience this luminous, boldly emotive pianist with staggering technique who emanates ardent passion and spirituality through music. The concert begins at 4:00 p.m. at Manatee Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 322 15th St. W., Bradenton. Donations requested. For more information, call 941.358.0235, email concertpianist1@gmail.com or visit www. eleonoralvov.com.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 3 Temple Sinai Rhythm & Jews Erev Shabbat Service Join Rabbi Samantha Kahn, Chazzan Cliff Abramson, congregants and friends for a festive Rhythm & Jews Erev Shabbat Service at 6:00 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). Celebrate with the inspirational sounds of the Bruno Family Musicians. A welcome reception begins at 5:15 p.m. For more information, contact the Temple Sinai office at 941.924.1802 or office@sinaisrq.org.

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First Fridays at Chabad of Venice Enjoy an inspiring Friday night service, and a delicious Shabbat oneg with challah and wine in an inviting atmosphere with friends. First Fridays at Chabad of Venice is a monthly community gathering to pray, schmooze and enjoy time together. It’s an opportunity to celebrate Shabbat, make new friends, see familiar faces and be part of the community. Join us at 5:30 p.m. at Chabad Education Center 21560 Angela Lane, Venice. For more information, contact Rabbi Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@ chabadofvenice.com.

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January 2020

JEWISH HAPPENINGS MONDAY, JANUARY 6 People of the Book – Broadway Night with Alexandra Silber Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

BEETHOVEN'S

THIRD

February 6 Van Wezel

(Eroica)

JEFFREY KAHANE Conductor and Commentator

Alexandra Silber will blend musical stylings with spoken words from her book in a cabaret-style performance featuring songs from Broadway and more. Silber is the author of After Anatevka, and White Hot Grief Parade, her memoir about the loss of her beloved father and the restorative power of family and friendship. The event begins at 7:30 p.m. at Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota. Tickets are $25. To purchase, go to www.jfedsrq.org/books or call 888.718.4253, Option 1.

The Tefillin Club Get your week off to a great start with the Monday morning Tefillin Club at 8:00 a.m. at Chabad Education Center 21560 Angela Lane, Venice. Shacharit will be followed by coffee and bagels, and a 15-minute “Living Torah” film. Each week, Rabbi Sholom Schmerling will expound on a different prayer, thus enabling each participant to really learn how to pray. No prior experience necessary. (If you don’t have a pair of tefillin, we have one for you.) For more information, contact Rabbi Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rabbi@chabadofvenice.com.

NCJW’s “The Blankee Bee” “Jeffrey Kahane… is making it his mission to shed new light on some of the classical repertoire’s most important pieces of music.” - Los Angeles Magazine This special concert explores Beethoven’s “heroic” symphony. Sarasota Orchestra Artistic Advisor Jeffrey Kahane will present insights and musical examples that put Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3 into 21st century context. A performance of the full symphony completes this fascinating concert experience. “With the Eroica, Beethoven literally shattered the boundaries of what the symphony as a form had been. Nothing like it had ever been done in terms of sheer scope.” - Jeffrey Kahane, Artistic Advisor Tickets from $25

SarasotaOrchestra.org | 941-953-3434

COMMUNITY LECTURE Tuesday, February 25, 2020

7:00 pm

SARASOTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM 801 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

ADMISSION

TICKETS GO ON SALE DECEMBER 5

ANTISEMITISM

HERE AND NOW Featuring Professor Deborah Lipstadt

Lipstadt, Dorot professor of Holocaust Studies at Emory University, has published and taught about the Holocaust for close to 40 years. She is probably most widely known because of the libel lawsuit brought against her (1996) by David Irving for having called him a Holocaust denier. Irving was then arguably the world’s leading denier. Professor Lipstadt’s latest book, ANTISEMITISM HERE AND NOW explores anti-Semitism in a series of fictional letters with a student and colleague.

CHAIR: BETTE ZARET “Lipstadt’s sweeping, accessible education on modern anti-Semitism is a welcome starting point in dire times.” – Lauren Krouse, Jewish Book Council

For information, call Brieana Duckett-Graves 941.552.6305 or bdgraves@jfedsrq.org LEAD SPONSOR

HANNAH AND NORMAN WEINBERG

GOLD SPONSOR

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

SILVER SPONSOR

LORI AND DAVID LINER

BRONZE SPONSORS

MARSHA AND HARRY, Z’’L EISENBERG ANN AND ROBERT JACKSON STEVE R. KALT AND ROBERT D. HEREEN IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

The National Council of Jewish Women has an ongoing project called “The Blankee Bee.” The project has involved its members in making nosew ﬂeece blankets which have been distributed to various agencies, such as Manatee Community Action Agency, HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters), residents of Anchin Pavilion, patients at the Florida Cancer Center, and children at Camp Mariposa as a joint venture with JFCS of the Suncoast. Join us from 10:00 a.m. to noon on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life (580 McIntosh Road, Sarasota) to make these blankets. For more information, contact Dale Gruder at lifesabeachbag@gmail.com or 941.554.8592.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7 The Jewish Women’s Book Club Join the most popular Jewish Women’s book club in town at “Caﬀeine for the Soul.” Get your weekly social and spiritual boost over a roundtable discussion led by Chaya Rivka Schmerling. Enjoy coﬀee and homemade pastries. Walk-ins are welcome to this free event at 10:00 a.m. at Chabad Education Center, 21560 Angela Lane, Venice. For more information, please contact Chaya Rivka Schmerling at 941.493.2770 or rivka@chabad ofvenice.com.

Brandeis National Committee’s “Art in the Afternoon” Please join Brandeis National Committee (BNC) for the ﬁrst in this year’s series of “Art in the Afternoon.” Charles Troy, music historian and former lyricist will present a multimedia presentation on The Sound of Music and how this 1959 musical was created and became a beloved, unforgettable movie six years later. Learn about the history of the real Maria von Trapp, and how the story went from the page to the stage. Troy will also present Cole Porter’s “Top Ten List of Songs,” including “Let’s Do It” and “You’re the Top.” The event will be held at The Meadows Country Club, 3101 Longmeadow, Sarasota. The schedule is as follows: 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – “The Creation of the Sound of Music;” 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. – lunch; 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. – Cole Porter presentation. The cost is $50 for BNC members and $65 for guests. For more information, contact Maris Margulies (941.757.3012 or grandmakabat@aol.com) or Janet Tolbert (941.388.9624 or janetrtolbert@gmail.com).

Torah & Tea Join Chanie Bukiet in her home (5718 Lorraine Road, Bradenton) on Tuesdays, January 7, 14 and 21 from 11:00 a.m. to noon, for a weekly dose of delicious tea and refreshments spiced with lessons on the “Kabbalah of the Aleph Bet” and roundtable discussions. No charge. Sponsor a class in someone’s memory or honor for $25. For more information, call 941.752.3030 or email info@chabadofbradenton.com.

“25 Years of Nazi Indoctrination” In 1919, when he joined the nascent Nazi Party, Adolf Hitler was a vagabond tramp, failed artist and WWI army veteran. From these nondescript beginnings, he soon built the Nazi Party into a dominant political and social force in Germany that shaped German life and culture for the next 25 years. Learn how the cultured German nation was transformed into the most organized mass killing machine in world history. Join us for this discussion at 1:00 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per student; healthy kosher refreshments included. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.

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JEWISH HAPPENINGS

January 2020

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8

THURSDAY, JANUARY 9

The Original Brown Bag with Rabbi Geoff Huntting

“Why We Sing What We Sing”

Temple Sinai has a longstanding tradition of Rabbi Geoff Huntting hosting a brown bag lunch and discussion of timely topics. Join with congregants, friends and neighbors in spirited conversations surrounding world events. Bring a bag lunch and an open mind to discuss important issues. This free workshop is open to the community. Participants are encouraged to introduce ideas for discussion, analysis and/or debate. Join us at 11:45 a.m. on Wednesdays, January 8, 15, 22 and 29 at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). For more information, contact the temple office at 941.924.1802 or office@sinaisrq.org.

Temple Sinai’s Chazzan Abramson presents a fascinating Lunch & Learn music workshop examining the evolution of synagogue music through a lens that allows the student to use what has been experienced in the synagogue, camp or youth group to develop a deeper understanding of synagogue music. Many recorded musical examples are used to facilitate learning and enjoyment. The workshop begins at 10:15 a.m. on Thursdays, January 9, 23 and 30 at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). For more information, please contact the temple oﬃce at 941.924.1802 or oﬃce@sinaisrq.org.

Temple Emanu-El’s “Lunch with the Rabbis”

Women of Sinai Catered Luncheon & Program

Are you looking for a great lunch date? Join Rabbi Brenner Glickman, Rabbi Michael Shefrin and friendly, interesting companions for lunch, socializing, and a discussion of current events and subjects of Jewish interest. All are invited to this popular, stimulating and enjoyable program at noon at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. 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! For more information, call the temple oﬃce at 941.371.2788.

Join the Women of Sinai at a catered luncheon by Chef Adam Woldman and a presentation by Carrie Seidman, Columnist, Sarasota Herald-Tribune. The event begins at noon at Temple Sinai, 4631 South Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota (enter only from Proctor Road between Beneva and Swift). For details, contact Suzanne Weinstein at suziweinstein@icloud.com.

Idelson Library Book Review America’s Jewish Women: A History from Colonial Times to Today by Pamela Nadell will be reviewed by Judge Judith Barzilay. Judge Barzilay will focus on a few of the women profiled, with special attention on how the changing roles of women affected their lives and how their practice of Judaism affected the American history of their respective times. Can we draw any parallels between their lives and ours? Refreshments will be served before and after the review. This free event begins at 1:15 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. For more information, please contact Lex Calaguas at 941.955.8121 or info@temple bethsholomfl.org.

Jewish Women’s Circle Mega Challah Bake Chabad of Bradenton’s Jewish Women’s Circle welcomes women and girls of all aﬃliations in the Jewish community to explore the beauty of this unique tradition and discover the secret to great-tasting challah! Enjoy song and dance with the talented Simone! Refreshments will be served. Open to girls and women ages 9 and up. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. at Grove, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. Cost: $36. Reservations required at www.chabadofbradendon.com/megachallahbake. For more information, call 941.752.3030 or email info@chabadofbradenton.com.

Charles Troy at CHJ Charles Troy, upon the invitation of the Congregation for Humanistic Judaism (CHJ), will return to present his excellent program “The Creation of West Side Story” with vocalists and a pianist. With well-researched commentary and engaging audio and visual material, Troy will give us the backstory on the classic Bernstein/Sondheim musical. Join us at 3:00 p.m. at Unity, 3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota. Tickets are $25 both in advance and at the door. Send checks to CHJ, 3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota FL 34231, and write “West Side Story” in the memo line. For more information or to RSVP, call 941.929.7771 or email chjsarasota@hotmail.com.

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SARASOTA JAZZ FESTIVAL SARASOTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM

MARCH 8 - 14, 2020 MUSIC DIRECTOR KEN PEPLOWSKI

FEATURING THE MANHATTAN TRANSFER

DICK HYMAN, ALEJANDRO ARENAS, CLAIRDEE, MARK FEINMAN, RUSSEL MALONE, CHARLES MCPHERSON, JOHN O’LEARY, HOUSTON PERSON and TERELL STAFFORD

Plus afternoon jazz, the ever popular Jazz Trolley Pub Crawl, Jazz in the Park and much more....

For tickets and information visit

sarasotajazzfestival.org The Harold and Evelyn R. Davis Memorial Foundation

January 2020

FRIDAY, JANUARY 10

Temple Beth Israel

567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key 941-383-3428 www.tbi-lbk.org

Shabbat Service with Cantor Audrey Abrams

Temple Beth Israel, The Center of Jewish Living on Longboat Key

Scholar in Residence Weekend - January 10, 11 and 12th, 2020

CALL 941-383-3428 FOR RESERVATIONS.

The Entire Community is Welcome. Free Admission. Born in l938, Rabbi Sonsino attended the University of Istanbul, Turkey, and graduated in 1959 with a degree in law. After serving in the Turkish army as a tank commander, he went to Paris, France to study at the Institut International d’Etudes Hebraiques. In 1961 he entered the Hebrew Union CollegeJewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati from which he received his Rabbinic Ordination in 1966 with a Masters degree in Hebrew literature. Rabbi Sonsino earned a Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania (1975) in Bible and ancient Near Eastern studies. His articles on Bible and Judaica have appeared in a number of scholarly journals.

Temple Beth Israel Speakers’ Committee is honored to present RABBI DR. RIFAT SONSINO on January 10th, 11th and 12th, 2020 as its Scholar-In-Residence, in a special Sephardic Jewry Weekend. The weekend program entitled “SEFARDIC JEWRY: HISTORY, CULTURE AND RELIGIOUS PRACTICES” consists of three captivating topics and a presentation of Sephardic Music. On Erev Shabbat: January 10th at 5:30 pm, a CONGREGATIONAL DINNER SEPHARDIC STYLE ($30 per person. Reservation required*) with entertainment by Juan De La Sierra. Erev Shabbat Service at 7:30 pm followed by a presentation by Rabbi Sonsino: “THE EXPULSION OF JEWS FROM SPAIN”. On Shabbat Morning: January 11th at 10:00 am, Rabbi Sonsino will Chant the Torah portion in a Turkish Sephardic Style. Topic: SEFARDIC AND ASHKENAZIC CUSTOMS AND CEREMONIES: SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES.” (followed by Shabbat Café Luncheon - free with reservation) On Sunday Morning: January 12 at 9:30 am - *Men’s Club Breakfast - ($12 per person. Topic: “THE CONVERSION TO ISLAM OF RABBI SABBETAY ZEVI, AND THE RISE OF THE SABBATEAN MOVEMENT.” th

*Reservations for Dinner and Breakfast must be made in advance, through the TBI office. The weekend of January 10th through 12th, will provide the entire Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Community the opportunity to sit together and engage in study and conversation with one of Sephardic Jewry’s outstanding scholars. The Scholar-in-Residence program is made possible through the generosity and support of: CHARLOTTE P. GRAVER FUND AT THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF SARASOTA COUNTY

AZI!

ARRIVING 1.12.20

7:00PM

SA R A S OTA O P E R A H O U S E

been generously underwritten by the Mazur Family in memory of Len Mazur

THE AZI SCHWARTZ CONCERT has

CHAIRS: EDIE CHAIFETZ, FRAN COHEN, ROS MAZUR, SARANEE NEWMAN

For more information, contact Temple Beth Sholom

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

Cantor Audrey Abrams of Beth El Synagogue in Minneapolis will oﬃciate Shabbat services on January 10 & 11 along with Rabbi Michael Werbow, enhancing these services with her beautiful voice. Cantor Abrams’ visit is sponsored by the Corn Music fund at Temple Beth Sholom. Everyone is welcome to enjoy worshiping with Cantor Abrams at 6:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Sholom, 1050 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. For more information, contact Kelly Nester at 941.955.8121 or info@templebethsholomﬂ.org.

“Truth, Trust and Tribalism” The Congregation for Humanistic Judaism is pleased to welcome Robert M. Gordon, Ph.D., ABPP for a very interesting and informative discussion about “Truth, Trust and Tribalism.” Dr. Gordon is board certiﬁed in Clinical Psychology and Psychoanalysis. The program will be preceded by our service with the Humanaires at 7:00 p.m. at Unity, 3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota. Donations will be greatly appreciated. For more information or to RSVP, call 941.929.7771 or email chjsarasota@hotmail.com.

Habitat for Humanity Shabbat Join Temple Beth El as we welcome the staﬀ of Habitat for Humanity, who will present a program explaining the work that they and Temple Beth El members have done to build a home for a very deserving family in Manatee County. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. at Temple Beth El Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch, 5150 Peridia Blvd. East, Bradenton. For more information, please call the temple oﬃce at 941.755.4900.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 12 Chabad of Sarasota Men’s Club Breakfast Meeting Enjoy the best kosher breakfast in Sarasota, including bagels, lox and cream cheese, scrambled eggs and onions, and whiteﬁsh salad, followed by our speaker. Dr. Barry Stein will present “A Moment in Time: A Transition from Active Care to Palliative Care.” Men and women are welcome at 9:00 a.m. at Chabad of Sarasota, 7700 Beneva Road. RSVPs appreciated, but walk-ins welcome. Cost: $7 for Club 770 members; $10 for non-members. To RSVP or for more information, call 941.925.0770 or email info@ chabadofsarasota.com.

The Circus Comes to Temple Emanu-El The Brotherhood of Temple Emanu-El is delighted to announce that the extraordinary founders of the Circus Arts Conservatory (formerly Circus Sarasota), Pedro Reis and Dolly Jacobs-Reis, will be guest speakers at this very special breakfast event. They will present a brief history of the circus in the Sarasota area with emphasis on the remarkable achievements of Circus Arts, including Dolly’s amazing aerialist performances. A deluxe bageland-lox breakfast at 9:30 a.m. precedes their talk at 10:00 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Cost: $10 for the breakfast. For more information, please contact Don Malawsky at 941.359.2890 or dmalawsky@msn.com.

“Speak Out, Stand Up Against Anti-Semitism” Each month we will meet with community members dedicated to outspoken opposition to anti-Semitism in the Manasota area. Little reported or publicized, virulent anti-Semitic acts have repeatedly been perpetrated locally with scant protests from the Jewish and general communities. People need to learn strategies to protect the Jewish community from anti-Semitism. Join us for this discussion at noon at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per student; kosher brunch included. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.

JEWISH HAPPENINGS

January 2020

MONDAY, JANUARY 13 Newcomers Sarasota Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

New to the area or to Federation? You are invited to a Newcomers Reception to connect to members of the Jewish community and Federation leadership and staﬀ. The free, non-solicitation event takes place from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Embassy Suites, 202 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Free valet parking available. RSVP to Brieana Duckett-Graves at bdgraves@jfedsrq. org or 941.552.6305.

NCJW Book Club The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) Book Club will discuss The Weight of Ink by Rachel Kadish from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at the Gulf Gate Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave., Sarasota. The NCJW Sarasota-Manatee section website (ncjwsarasota-manatee.org) has information about the Book Club, the title selections and dates for the current season. Click on Community Services at the top of the page. Guests welcome. For more information, contact Barbara Aferiat at barbara@aferiat.com or 703.338.7112.

Enjoy our Jewish programs in JANUARY and FEBRUARY 2020 ONE-TIME PROGRAMS THE WHOLE MEGILLAH: The History of the Yiddish Theatre

A multi-media presentation with Charles Troy

Thursday, January 9 • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM WOMEN OF VALOR— From the Bible, the Torah and Beyond A musical concert with Rosalie Leon

Friday, January 31 • 3:00 – 4:15 PM A TOUR OF ISRAEL

A photo journal lecture with Linda Kreithen Richter, Ph.D.

Tuesday, February 11 • 3:00 – 4:30 PM

COURSES & TWO-PART SERIES

Wednesdays

THE LEGACY OF KING HEROD THE GREAT Ken Hanson, Ph.D. February 5 and 12 • 1:00 – 2 :30 PM

Thursdays

LEARN HOW TO PLAY MAH JONGG Joyce Doran February 6 – March 12 • 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

JEWISH/ISRAELI FILM FESTIVAL Susan Goldfarb and Guest Facilitators February 6 – March 12 • 2:00-5:00 PM

SHORT STORIES IN THE HEBREW BIBLE Rachel Zohar-Dulin, Ph.D. January 10 – 31 • 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

JEWISH COMPOSERS Jerry Herman & Stephen Sondheim Susan Benjamin January 24 and 31 • 1:00 – 2:15 PM

TUESDAY, JANUARY 14 Just Reel Films – Denial

Fridays

Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

The ﬁlm Denial is based on a true story. In 1993, Deborah Lipstadt published Denying the Holocaust. Two years later, English author David Irving sued her for libel on the grounds that her book had ruined his once well-regarded career as an historian by accusing him of deliberately distorting historical facts. The resulting court case put the onus on her legal team to prove that the Holocaust did, indeed, take place. The screening begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Beatrice Friedman Theater on The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life, 582 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. This event is free with a suggestion that attendees bring a non-perishable food item for All Faiths Food Bank. To register, go to jfedsrq.org/justreel. For more information, contact Jeremy Lisitza at jlisitza@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2113.

SPECIAL EVENT In collaboration with Temple Beth Israel

An Evening of Exquisite Music DANIEL JORDAN Violinist and concertmaster of the Sarasota Orchestra SOLOMON EICHNER Internationally recognized pianist

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 Sarasota-Manatee and in Israel. Bring your needles or crochet hook and a favorite pattern – we’ll supply the yarn and great company! The group meets at 10:00 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For more information, email Susan Bernstein at susanhope22@comcast.net.

SOLD OU T

Sun day, Februar y 9 7:30 – 9PM

Champagne-dessert reception to meet the artists For prices and a brochure listing over 175 adult enrichment courses, lectures and special events call 941-383-8811 or visit www.lbkeducationcenter.org 5370 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE (in the Centre Shops of Longboat Key)

The Longboat Key Education Center is a not-for-profit, 501 (c) (3) Educational Organization.

WWW.LBKEDUCATIONCENTER.ORG

CTeen Game Night Sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

Join CTeen for an exciting Game Night at 7:00 p.m. at The Chabad House, 5712 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. Cost: $18 or free for CTeen members. A CTeen annual membership is $180. CTeen 5780 is sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Bukiet at 941.752.3030 or rabbi@chabadofbradenton.com.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15 “Sage Advice: Ancient Wisdom for Today” Temple Emanu-El Associate Rabbi Michael Shefrin facilitates this special learning series, presenting fascinating selections from Pirke Avot – “Sayings of Our Ancestors” – and exploring their power and wisdom. Join in the study and conversation, and respond to noble teachings such as Hillel’s famous dictum: “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? And, if I am for myself alone, then what am I? And if not now, when?” Classes continue Wednesdays, January 22 and 29 at 10:30 a.m. at Temple EmanuEl, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. This class is free for Temple Emanu-El members, with a $10 donation requested for guests. For more information, call the temple oﬃce at 941.371.2788.

“News Coverage of the Holocaust” In 1924, upon Adolf Hitler’s release from prison after the failed Beer Hall Putsch, The New York Times reported that “He looked a much sadder and wiser man today than last spring.... It is believed he will retire to private life and return to Austria, the country of his birth.” Major American news outlets chronically downplayed the dangers of Nazism throughout the 1920s and 1930s, and rarely reported the mass murders of Jews during the Holocaust. Join us for this discussion at 1:00 p.m. at the Al Katz Center, 5710 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per student; healthy kosher refreshments included. To RSVP, call Beverly at 941.313.9239.

STAY CONNECTED