NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Jewish Life
A PUBLICATION OF THE JEWISH F E D E RAT ION & FOUNDAT ION OF NORT HE AST FLO R I DA
Jewish Influencers
DECEMBER 2021 KISLEV/TEVET 5782 JEWISHJACKSONVILLE.ORG
Contents
November 2021
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5 Tips for Year-end Charitable Giving
24 Our Jewish 18 Jewish Influencers who Make a Difference Community's Future is Bright with B'nai 20 YPF & Ben Gurion Tzedek Next Gen Society Chairs Return Philanthropy from National Young 25 Partner Painting at Leadership Cabinet River Garden 21 Jewish Influencers 26 Torah Academy's Judith and Stephen High School Girl's Silverman Division
COMMUNITY
6 The Maccabi Games Return 9 Champagne Brunch Connects Women for Over 10 Years
11 The Coves at River Garden Welcomes New Administrator
FEATURE
16 St. Johns County - Israel Friendship Day
17 Greg Arnold named Minyannaire of the Year
L’DOR V’DOR
27 Dubow Preschool Jewish Influencers
14 Israel Partnership Welcomes New Partnership2Gether Southeast Coordinator 15 Shine a Light on Anti-Semitism
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FAREWELL, ALAN MARGOLIES
28 2nd Generation Holocaust Survivor Stories Come to Life During the Pandemic
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43 Brightway Insurance
SEE & BE SCENE
NOSH ON THIS
39 Banana Nut Muffins
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IT'S YOUR BUSINESS
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WORTH THE SCHLEP
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FAITH & INSPIRATION COMMUNITY RESOURCES
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B'NAI TZEDEK YOUTH PHILANTHROPY
29 Gift from David and Linda Stein Names River Garden Campus in Honor of Family History Cover Photo Jewish Influencers: 30 The Grow After School Program Goes out on an Israel Quest
Leah Palestrant, Laura Platzer, Ben Marsh, Rabbi Menashe Uhr, Alison Weisman, Brandon Sugg
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LETTER FROM OUR CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER This issue’s theme, Jewish Influencers is a hot topic. I am going to age myself here, but when I first heard this term a couple of years ago, I assumed Jewish Influencers referred to the Golda Meirs, Bernie Marcus’ and Ronald Lauders of the world. It was as an attendee at the Jewish Federation of North America (JFNA) General Assemblies and its International Lion of Judah Conferences in which plenaries of both programs included Jewish Influencers that I learned how far off track I was.
Jewish Influencers today refer to people under the age of 40ish who are changing the world. Some have blogs, podcasts and Instagram followings that make them celebrities, and some are founders of nonprofits, businesses and high-tech inventions that enhance our lives every day. When these Jewish Influencers flanked the stages of these conferences the audience went wild. Those of us who didn’t recognize them immediately were wowed by their entrepreneurial spirit, their passion, their impact, and their presence. Influencers is the millennial word for changemakers. They do not necessarily have to have national or international reach. We have some real Jewish Influencers right here in our own community. In my brief time here, I have had the pleasure to meet some of them and they left their mark on me, and I am confident they will leave their footprints on our community.
I hope you take as much pride as I have when you read this issue and know that the future of our community is poised to be pathed by some extraordinary young leaders – our own rockstars, our own Jewish Influencers.
On behalf of the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida and from my family to yours – wishing you a safe holiday season and a happy and healthy New Year.
Jewish Federation & Foundation Staff Mariam Shpeen Feist Chief Executive Officer mariamf@jewishjacksonville.org Alan Margolies Executive Director alanm@jewishjacksonville.org
Stav Brener Community Shaliach jaxshlichut@jewishjacksonville.org Pat Burke Director, Finance & Administration patrickb@jewishjacksonville.org
Savannah Feustel Marketing Assistant savannahf@jewishjacksonville.org Faye Hedrick Director, Young Professionals & Families fayeh@jewishjacksonville.org
Rachel Heiser Campaign & Donor Relations Coordinator rachelh@jewishjacksonville.org
Jennifer Rensch Foundation Manager jenniferr@jewishjacksonville.org Lauren Rickoff Director, Campaign & Women’s Philanthropy laurenr@jewishjacksonville.org Mitzi Saul Marketing & Communications Manager mitzis@jewishjacksonville.org Kellie Smith Director, Foundation kelliek@jewishjacksonville.org
PICK UP NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE AT THESE LOCATIONS.
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COMMUNITY
W H AT ' S H A P P E N I N G I N N O R T H E A S T F LO R I DA
THE COUNTDOWN IS ON: TIPS FOR YEAR-END CHARITABLE GIVING By Kellie Smith, Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida organization. You may also check ratings for an organization's performance on Charity Navigator. Only deductions to qualified 501(c) (3) organizations are tax-deductible. Give Early
It’s that time of year again, when many people add charitable giving to their busy to-do list! Year-end giving can come with great benefits and now is a good time to to make the most of them. Consider Your Income and Talk to a Professional
Take time to understand your tax liability for the year and whether you plan to itemize your deductions or claim a standard deduction. This can help you determine how much you want to give by December 31. It is always prudent before making any significant charitable gifts to consult with an advisor to discuss the impact on your taxes and estate.
Know the Organizations You Support Learning more about the charity will help you feel confident that you are choosing effective organizations—and your support is really making a difference. Check with the IRS and Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints were filed for an
If you plan to send donations via check, make sure to mail early enough—a December 31 postmarked date ensures the gift counts for that tax year, even if not cashed until the following year. If paying be credit card, the transaction must be completed on or before December 31. If you donate stock, the transaction is only recognized once the transfer request has been submitted by your financial advisor. The deadline for gifts of stock to the Jewish Foundation is December 29. Review Your Stock Portfolio
Consider giving long-term (held for more than one year) appreciated non-cash assets, such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. You’ll receive a charitable deduction for the current market value of the stock and eliminate capital gains tax, which may increase the amount available for charity by up to 20 percent. Utilize Your IRA and Required Minimum Distribution
If you are over 70½, you can make a donation directly from an individual retirement account to a charity. An IRA transfer generates neither taxable income nor a tax deduction, so you’ll
benefit even if you don’t itemize your deductions. Beginning in the year you turn 72, you can use your gift to satisfy all or part of your required minimum distribution. Let Us Do the Work for You: Add to or Establish a Philanthropic Fund
A Donor Advised Fund offers you an effective means to manage your charitable giving and involve your family in philanthropy. You’ll receive a charitable deduction for gifts to your fund in the tax year in which they're made, and you can defer grant making recommendations to any time you choose. All contributions are invested according to your risk tolerance, allowing them to grow over time, tax-free. It also makes record keeping a breeze and eliminates the burden of saving tax receipts. Let us help you create an end-of-year giving strategy that will maximize both your philanthropic impact and your tax savings! Contact Kellie Smith, Foundation Director, today, to discuss your options: (904) 512-3796 or KellieK@jewishjacksonville.org *This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please consult with your own legal and tax advisors prior to making charitable giving decisions.
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COMMUNITY
THE MACCABI GAMES RETURN! By Beth Milograno Berry, Jewish Community Alliance
Coach Rio Robinson with the athletes who competed on the JCA Jacksonville basketball team at the 2011 Maccabi Games.
The Jewish Community Center Association (JCCA) is thrilled about the return of the JCC Maccabi® Experience and so are we! Excitement is in the air at the JCA as we prepare a team of young Jewish athletes for the JCC Maccabi Games® and JCC Maccabi Access in San Diego, California, on July 31 – August 5, 2022. “I have worked with young people from several communities in the JCC Maccabi Games. It is wonderful to watch the joy as young athletes participate and grow their Jewish identity,” says Jewish Community Alliance CEO Adam Chaskin, who has coached and mentored Jewish athletes at the Maccabi Games since 1988. “The experience fosters a greater Jewish identity and instills 6
core Jewish values in young athletes.”
When the JCCA announced the 2022 games and its new Access experience for young Jewish athletes with disabilities, our JCA staff was inspired to offer young Jewish athletes in our community the opportunity to compete. With more than 1,500 participants expected, the San Diego games will feature sports like baseball, basketball, dance, esports, flag football, golf, ice hockey, soccer, swimming, table tennis, tennis, and volleyball. “The overall experience is extremely rewarding,” says JCA Sports and Recreation Director Rio Robinson, who is actively recruiting Jewish athletes to compete on the Jacksonville JCA team. Having
attended two Maccabi Games in his career with the JCA, Rio says the Maccabi Games is an experience of a lifetime. “To see the scope of how many JCCs exist and participate is eye-opening. To gather that many young Jewish athletes in a sporting event is truly humbling.”
The 2022 JCC Maccabi Experience includes Olympic-style opening and closing ceremonies, and a community service day of caring. Every Maccabi event is aimed to bring the Jewish community together for a week of spirit, friendship and celebration. “It’s a place where children realize they have Jewish peers across the country. Although we may look and sound different, we are all Jewish that is the wonderful, bonding thing about the Maccabi Games,” says Adam.
If your children, ages 13 – 16 by July 31, 2022, are interested in being on the Jacksonville JCA Maccabi Games team, contact Coach Rio Robinson via email: rio.robinson@jcajax.org or phone, (904) 730 – 2100 ext. 250.
THE JOY THAT IS JUDAISM Everyone is welcome in our Temple family, the young and the young-atheart; the single and the partnered; the Jew by birth and the Jew-bychoice; the able-bodied and the challenged. No matter where you have been or where you are going, rediscover the joy that is Judaism here at Congregation Ahavath Chesed! Those words are on the Temple website and reflect Congregation Ahavath Chesed’s new Temple Board President, Miriam Greenhut’s vision to bring excellence to our long standing congregants and to connect with young and interfaith families. “We are Reform Judaism in Jacksonville. We are home to the full spectrum of inclusive Judaism.” Miriam joined the Temple after hearing how wonderful Temple’s Sunday school, Temple Institute of Religion (TIR), is. She watched her sons grow up at Temple and become bar mitzvot, making the Temple the religious home for her family. “I believe in Jewish institutional life. I believe in the value of being part of a congregational community."
By Ellen Berson, Congregation Ahavath Chesed
She was then invited to join the Temple’s Education Committee. “That was a turning point for me. It was the first time in my career when I could take on volunteer work.” Miriam relished this opportunity. Volunteering held “all the good things you could hope for…it was fun, social, collaborative, and creative.” The experience showed her “that active volunteers could have a positive impact on the engagement experience at Temple.”
Two years ago Miriam was asked to join the board and later to cochair both the interim and permanent rabbinic search for the Temple. After that she was named the board secretary and this year she begins her role as board president. Her kind demeanor and soft voice balance her drive and determination. Miriam is helping support the new professional team at the Temple and looking to the future. “Building on our historical strength, we can take a fresh look at the future to create a new vision for Jewish life in the 21st century. Our potential is unlimited.”
Miriam Greenhut, Temple Board President (left) with Goldie Lansky (right) at Tashlich
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COMMUNITY
THE SHABBAT PROJECT
By Rabbi Menashe Uhr, Jacksonville Community Kollel
The Shabbat project is an international grassroots movement encouraging Jews around the world to uplift the way they experience Shabbbat, for one weekend a year. The Kollel was privileged to bring this worldwide program to Jacksonville this past month!
Musical Havdalah concludes an uplifting weekend
On Shabbat parshat Vayeira, October 22-23, The Kollel hosted a beautiful gourmet dinner (catered by none other than my wife Shayna!) and we were honored to have over 75 people join the meal. The program started with Candle lighting, Kabbalat Shabbat prayers, and continued on to a delicious meal, accompanied by beautiful singing and inspirational words of Torah. Following the meal, we were joined by many friends from the Mandarin area, who came for dessert and an Oneg, which lasted well into the night.
On Shabbat day we partnered with Etz Chaim Synagogue for extra programming, including special classes, an enhanced Kiddush and Seudah Shlishit, and ended off with an inspirational musical Havdalah around a bonfire at the close of Shabbat. We were joined by an energetic group of young musicians
who elevated the singing and spirit, and brought a shipment of specialty kosher foods that aren’t (yet) available in Jacksonville!
Overall, many people were impacted by this special weekend, and we hope everyone who participated took the inspiration with them by trying to make a small commitment to enhance the way we celebrate every Shabbat, even the “regular” ones. This weekend increased our appreciation for special gift of Shabbat in our lives! The Kollel frequently hosts free Shabbat dinners open to the entire community. It’s a great place to come for a delicious meal and a meaningful Jewish experience. With participants from all walks of life and all areas of Jacksonville, it’s an amazing opportunity to network and connect with other local Jews. Learn more at jacksonvillekollel.com/ shabbat-dinners
CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH CONNECTS WOMEN FOR OVER 10 YEARS By Lauren Rickoff, Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida
2021 Champagne Brunch co-chairs, Jenn Neuman and Sandy Shapiro The Women’s Philanthropy Champagne Brunch builds connections for women throughout the community. While the main event goal is to raise funds for the 2022 Annual Campaign of the Jewish Federation & Foundation, an intangible goal is to unite women in shared values and build relationships. January’s event will be the first in-person event in two years and participants are looking forward to finally spending time with each other face-to-face.
focused on since the pandemic began, self-care. Guest speaker, Elise Bonwitt will share concrete ideas for how to get more out of life, using her book, More: Get More Out of Life with Less Complication. One of the chapters focuses on relationships, “Over time, I have grown to understand the importance of relationships and can appreciate the impact they have had on each stage of my life. Strong relationships can bring you happiness, health, deeper meaning, and even longevity,” Bonwitt writes.
Rosenberg has fond memories of the time she worked on the event, “I co-chaired the Champagne Brunch in January of 2020. My favorite memory was looking around the room and seeing that 150 women had come together with a common mission to support the Jewish Federation. It was both heartwarming and empowering to be a part of this event.” We invite you to join us at this year’s event on Sunday, January 23, 2022. For details and registration information, go to https://events. idonate.com/champagnebrunch2022
Each year, over 100 women attend the annual event, and spending time with friends is a highlight. Joan
Our co-chairs, Jenn Neuman and Sandy Shapiro, are planning an event that will allow for a lot of schmooze 2020 Champagne Brunch co-chairs, Danielle Leder and Joan time, as well as provide information Rosenberg with guest speaker, Kristin Harmel. on a topic that everyone has been Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida 9
COMMUNITY
JEWISH WOMEN BAKE ‘LOAVES OF LOVE’ CHALLAH IN ST. JOHNS! By Devorah Hamford, Chabad of St. Johns County
On November 4, women gathered for the ‘Loaves of Love Challah Bake’ at the Jewish Womens Circle in St. Johns. Shabbat has long been a means to reconnect with ourselves, our families and our community. And nothing symbolizes the spirit of Shabbat more than delicious, fresh-baked challah.
Baking challah is a time-honored mitzvah dating back to our matriarchs. According to Jewish tradition, when a woman bakes 10
challah and does the mitzvah of taking challah, she brings additional blessings into her home and into the food that she lovingly prepares for family and friends. It is a time for women to pray for their personal needs, the needs of their families, and their communities. We created beautifully braided challahs and discovered the beauty of this tradition, unique to women. It was also Rosh Chodesh (First day of every Jewish month), we learned all about Rosh Chodesh and why it’s
a special day for women.
The Jewish Womens Circle of St. Johns is where Jewish women connect with other local Jewish women from diverse backgrounds and affiliations in a warm, lighthearted and fun atmosphere. For more information about the St. Johns Jewish Womens Circle call (904) 701-4422 or email Dini@JewishSJohnsCounty.com. For more information or for more Jewish community events go to www.JewishSJohnsCounty.com
THE COVES AT RIVER GARDEN WELCOMES NEW ADMINISTRATOR By Kari Bell, River Garden Senior Services
Beginning November 1, 2021, Sarah Dymond is the Administrator for The Coves. Originally from the northeast (PA & western NY), she has been in Florida since 2005. She loves animals and is the ‘mom’ to two dogs.
Sarah brings more than fifteen years of senior living experience to River Garden and The Coves. She is passionate about her work with older adults and has diligently helped hundreds of families select the best communities in which to live.
She is focused on creating a caring and enriching lifestyle for our members.
“I am extremely enthusiastic when it comes to senior living and love investing my energy in the different relationships I build with residents and their families,” Sarah shares. “Sarah has worked with several upscale communities and is passionate about customer service. We are confident her knowledge and experience will be a good fit for The Coves,” Mauri Mizrahi, CEO, adds.
COMMUNITY
JFCS BOARD SPOTLIGHT SHARON KAPLAN
By Donna O'Steen, Jewish Family & Community Services
Sharon Kaplan, FACHE, is a healthcare leader with more than 13 years of experience. Currently serving as Baptist Health’s Executive Director of Revenue Cycle Integration, Sharon is leading the revenue cycle project team through the transformational Epic integration initiative, unifying patient health records and financial records into a single platform.
Sharon joined Baptist Health in late 2013 as the first director of Baptist Physician Partners, Baptist Health’s clinically integrated network and accountable care organization, and was selected as one of Jacksonville Business Journals’ 40 Under 40 honorees for 2020. Previous experience includes pediatric hospital operations, physician recruitment, and business development. Sharon grew up in Miami, Florida, earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Florida in 2005, and a master’s degree in Health Administration from the University of Florida in 2007. She moved to Northeast Florida in 2013, and resides in the north St.
Johns area.
Sharon has been involved with the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) North Florida Jacksonville Leadership Planning Council and currently serves on the PJ Library Family Programming Planning Committee since 2018.
Sharon is passionate about the JFCS mission. She looks forward to serving on the Board, in an effort to strengthen the community and help people help themselves through hope and support. In her spare time, Sharon enjoys reading, traveling and spending time with family. Welcome to the JFCS board, Sharon. We are excited to have you!
COMMUNITY SHABBAT DINNER IN NOCATEE DRAWS A CROWD By Devorah Fordham, Chabad of St. Johns County
Men, women and children came together for an exquisite four-course Shabbat dinner at the Nocatee Crosswater Hall on Friday, October 22, 2021. “It was like walking into an upscale dinner party - but completely kosher!” said Kathy. “From the flowers to dessert, Chabad of St.
Johns really thought of everything.”
The evening echoed with the sounds of Shabbat: old friends catching up, new neighbors meeting for the first time, and words of Torah wisdom from Rabbi Mendel Sharfstein, director at Chabad of St. Johns. “A truly spectacular evening,” said
Sarah, “the food was so good! And we all felt so at home.”
Look out for the next community Shabbat dinner! To find out more about and join our community Shabbat dinners around St. Johns County visit www.JewishSJohnsCounty. com, call (904) 701-4422, or email Rabbi@JewishSJohnsCounty.com
COMMUNITY
ISRAEL PARTNERSHIP WELCOMES NEW PARTNERSHIP2GETHER SOUTHEAST COORDINATOR By Mitzi Saul, Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida
The Israel Partnership Program (Partnership2Gether or P2G) is an opportunity for members of the Jewish community in the Northeast Florida area to make people-to-people
connections with Israelis living in our partnership city of Hadera-Eiron, Israel. P2G creates programs and projects where local Jews and Israelis can learn together, travel together and share common interests in unique platforms. Programs include educator exchanges, teen summer exchange programs, young leadership programs, artist projects, medical professional delegations, music programs, firefighter exchanges and running delegations. We share this sister city with ten other U.S. Southeast communities so we have the opportunity to make connections with both American and Israeli Jews. Becca Greenspan Stein serves as the new P2G Southeast Coordinator.
Becca is excited to be working closely with our Southeast Jewish communities as well as the HaderaEiron region in Israel to help put quality programs together. She has a background in both Jewish and special education and has spent the last few years working at a synagogue in New York City developing curriculum and family programming. In addition to her role as P2G coordinator, Becca also teaches Jewish Studies part-time and runs the PJ Library and outreach program for the Jewish Federation of Florida’s Gulf Coast. For more information about Israel Partnership2Gether, contact Becca at becca@jewishgulfcoast.org.
SHINE A LIGHT ON ANTISEMITISM By Faye Hedrick, Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida eye opening fact for someone who otherwise would not have had the opportunity to hear one," says Paul Novack, one of the volunteer community leaders helping to plan the program.
On December 1, the fourth night of Hanukkah, our community is proudly participating in the Shine A Light on Antisemitism initiative during Hanukkah & Hockey Night with the Jacksonville Icemen! This program exists to raise awareness of contemporary antisemitism in North America and foster and highlight a strong response to mobilize Jewish communal organizations, communities, and allies. One of the goals is for exposure, education, and communal expressions of solidarity in calling out and combating antisemitism. While the community joins together for Hanukkah, hockey, fun, and culture we will also work to accomplish that goal. You are now likely asking yourself, “That sounds great, but how?” A video about the antisemitism crisis, featuring local clergy and community leaders from many faiths and ethnicities will be shown during the game. We will hand out kits containing surprising statistics about antisemitism and the local Jewish community, along with some gelt and a dreidel. Your local Jewish community leadership is hopeful and eager to educate the public about antisemitism. “Our hope is we provide a powerful moment or
The fact that many present will not be Jewish is just perfect. As we know, hatred of Jews is not solely a Jewish problem. Antisemitism is a sign of an intolerant society and by ignoring it, we grant society a broader license to hate. All individuals should care about antisemitism in order to build a society that is more compassionate, educated, and committed to the value of human dignity. Making hatred of Jews socially unacceptable requires Jewish allies to be invested in creating a more compassionate and caring community and with the partnerships of folks like Kyle Reese at OneJax, and the Icemen team, we’re doing just that! This Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, we’re proud to shine a light on antisemitism to dispel darkness in all its forms. Hanukkah reminds us that even one small light has the power to illuminate darkness and spark hope.
COMMUNITY
ST. JOHNS COUNTY-ISRAEL FRIENDSHIP DAY CELEBRATED ON NOV. 8 By The Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller of St. Johns County
On November 8, St. Johns County celebrated the long-standing alliance between the United States and Israel — and the Jewish community’s even longer history in St. Augustine — with County Commission Chairman Jeremiah R. Blocker and County Clerk and Comptroller Brandon Patty signing a St. Johns CountyIsrael Friendship Day proclamation before a crowd of more than 60 residents and supporters.
"By declaring Nov. 8 St. Johns County-Israel Friendship Day, we are saying that we stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Israel and our Jewish friends and neighbors in St. Johns County in promoting freedom, human rights and security," Clerk Patty said. At the Friendship Day event, U.S. Army veteran Capt. Brandon Sugg of St. Johns County led the pledge of allegiance. Featured speakers were Rabbi Mendel Sharfstein of Chabad St. Johns County, who offered the invocation; the Rev. Lee Weaver of the St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society, who presented a history of the Jewish community; Ms. Mariam Shpeen Feist, CEO of the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida; Ms. Mary Schulten, Christian outreach coordinator for StandWithUs, and Rabbi Fred Raskind, adjunct rabbi, Congregation Ahavath Chesed, who closed the ceremony with a blessing. 16
County Commission Chairman Jeremiah R. Blocker, Jewish Federation & Foundation President Jennifer Plotkin, U.S. Army veteran Capt. Brandon Sugg, Jewish Federation & Foundation CEO Mariam Shpeen Feist, and County Clerk and Comptroller Brandon Patty.
Rabbi Sharfstein, who co-directs the Chabad Center for Jewish Life of St. Johns, with his wife Dini, thanked county representatives for their beautiful display of support and friendship toward the County’s Jewish community and towards the State of Israel. At the close of the celebration, he presented Clerk Patty with a menorah as a sign of light, unity and friendship, which Clerk Patty accepted on behalf of the county.
A surprise highlight of the event was Ms. Feist’s reading of a letter from the Israeli Consulate of Florida in support of the St. Johns County-Israel Friendship Day proclamation and the
investment policy resolution.
"We are appreciative to St. Johns County for proclaiming Nov. 8 as Israel Friendship Day," said Ms. Feist. "As the convening organization on behalf of the Jewish community, we thank you for your unwavering support of Israel, and look forward to more opportunities to connect with, forge deeper relationships and work together with the St. Johns County community. For without a vibrant and strong St. Johns County, we cannot have a vibrant and strong Jewish community." To view the ceremony, go to https://youtu.be/szCLGgW0ATs
GREG ARNOLD NAMED MINYANNAIRE OF THE YEAR AT THE JACKSONVILLE JEWISH CENTER By Faye Hedrick, 2021 JJC Minyannaire’s Shabbat Chair to attend morning minyan on a more regular basis. Then with a further change to job requirements in 2010, he began to attend minyan every day in June of that year and has missed very few since. He has been a ‘regular’ for about 11 1/2 years and has served as the Monday morning captain, subbing for Harry Shmunes for about a year and a half, and as the Thursday morning captain since replacing Phillip Bloom in that position.
Each day, twice a day, both morning and evening, members of the Jacksonville Jewish Center gather for prayer. As many of us know, minyan is the Hebrew word that describes the quorum of ten Jewish adults required for certain religious obligations. The word itself comes from the Hebrew root maneh ( )הנמmeaning to count or to number. You can always count on Greg Arnold.
Together with his wife Barbara, Greg moved to Jacksonville in December of 2001. Shortly after they joined the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Anyone who comes regularly will tell you the two are almost always present on Shabbos and the holidays. However, due to work hours, it was more difficult for Greg to attend minyan. This changed in 2008 and Greg began
In a brief discussion with Greg, it became obvious how important this ritual and all that it encompasses is to him, and so many others. Greg states, "Being a member of the JJC has been central to our life since Barbara and I moved to Jacksonville. Being active in minyan has given us many new, close friends and has allowed me to be there for other people who needed just that one more person to make a minyan for kaddish, to read Torah, or celebrate a simcha. Join us; you are always welcome and will have the chance to be that one more person who makes the minyan (and the difference!) for others." Prior to belonging to the Center, Barbara and Greg had been active in shuls in Chicago; Kankakee, IL; Seattle and Olympia, WA; and Heidelberg, Germany. Greg served on the synagogue board in Heidelberg and was instrumental in the negotiations with the Federal German
government to replace the synagogue that was destroyed on Kristallnacht in 1938. Prior to his marriage, Greg was active in military congregations in many locations as well as in Kansas City, and Barbara had been a member of the Heidelberg synagogue since high school.
One can always say prayers by oneself, at any time or place, but praying with others brings a sense of connection and closeness. By requiring a minyan for many fundamental rituals, Judaism encourages communal cohesion and we’re proud and grateful people like Greg Arnold have made a commitment to this ritual and this community. As Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner stated, “It’s those who are quiet about it who tend to make a great difference. You don’t have to be a clergy member or have a Ph.D. in davening. It’s ordinary people who make a commitment and usually find a meaningful connection to one another or their spirituality when they do.” This year, the Center proudly announces Greg Arnold as the recipient of the Scott Zimmerman Minyannaire of the Year. Please join us on Shabbat morning, December 18th, as we honor Greg and all the ‘Minyannaires’ during this special Shabbat service.
Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida 17
Jewish Influencers Who Make a Difference for Good By Faye Hedrick, Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida
When you think of the word influencer what comes to mind? We posed this question to colleagues, friends, and family and received a variety of answers. Many described an influencer as someone with power to affect decisions of others because of his/her authority, knowledge, position, or relationship with an audience. Some described it as an individual with a following in a distinct niche, with whom they actively engage. The definition and characteristics of the individuals we are highlighting in this cover story are some who have made, and will undoubtedly continue to make, a difference in our community every day.
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These influencers are dedicated and passionate people. Their passions differ both personally and professionally but shared values are one of the characteristics that unite them. All of the individuals highlighted are current BRIDGES Leadership Development Initiative class members or alumni, and share an eagerness and determination to make their community a better place.
Ben Marsh, past Young Professionals and Families chair, is someone you can count on. Ben’s involvement in our community through leadership roles at not only Congregation Ahavath Chesed, but also at the Federation & Foundation has taken place since he arrived in Jacksonville 17 years ago. Ben has served as Temple’s brotherhood president, chaired our Super Sunday, led several mini-missions, and never stops being an ambassador for Jewish life in Northeast Florida. The first thing he says when you come to him with an idea or issue is, “How can I help?” Leah Palestrant has the ability to bring the right people to the right
places for the right causes. Leah is passionate, kind, creative, and articulate. She has a way of encouraging others to want to learn more about the world and the lives the Federation touches; she does this by simply being herself. “As a transplant to Northeast Florida, this community has embraced me. I’ve made lifelong friends and through my time and involvement here, developed personally and professionally.”
Laura Platzer is passionate about the Federation’s mission and it shows in multiple ways. One meaningful way is through her day-to-day work at River Garden. Laura’s work involves assisting with the planning and implementation of Jewish community programming on the campus and coordinating with all the agencies for intergenerational projects and programs. She is a former student of the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School and is proud to be in this year’s BRIDGES class. One of the goals she hopes to acquire would be to develop leadership skills through her natural curiosity and passion for Judaism, helping to make a greater impact in the community. Brandon Sugg is a thoughtful, forward-thinking man. His face has become one of familiarity at our office on many Friday mornings. He stops by with donuts for the staff and has been known to sit in on a meeting or two, adding insight and facts. This BRIDGES class is in good hands with his and co-chair, Rachel
Davis’ thoughtful approach on encouraging young people to learn more about the impact of collective giving, which is one of many of their shared goals for the group.
Rabbi Menashe Uhr has been in Northeast Florida since late last year, but in that short time he’s made a tremendous impact. Through his work at the Jacksonville Community Kollel he has been engaging Jews of all backgrounds through Torah learning and Jewish experiences. He recently received a Jewish Community Foundation grant for the ‘Meet Your Jewish Neighbor’ program, aimed at connecting Jewish families throughout the greater Jacksonville area, by empowering volunteer leaders in various neighborhoods to create meet and greet opportunities for Jewish families to meet one another. This grant opportunity was a creative initiative our Federation & Foundation was eager to support! Alison Weisman is proud to be back in the community where she grew up. She is an inclusion supervisor with Jewish Family & Community Services for the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School and Torah Academy. Alison told us, “It is special seeing how passionate the students are about their Jewish studies as well as their general studies. I know they want to be future leaders in our community and I’m proud to help set an example for them through my work.” She ensures all children are provided the tools and time they need to be successful. Ultimately, the influence of these young and engaged members gives an overall feeling our community is in good hands. Their life’s passions and contributions to the Jewish community are a sign of commitment to their Jewish values. Throughout 2022, we plan to highlight more Northeast Florida Jewish Influencers. Who do you think we should include next?
"At the heart of Judaism are three beliefs about leadership: We are free. We are responsible. And together we can change the world." - Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks
YPF Chair and Ben Gurion Society Chair Return from National Young Leadership Cabinet By Faye Hedrick, Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida
Sarah Schwartz & Sophie Rothstein Two hundred and twenty-five participants representing 51 Jewish Federations met in San Diego for this year’s National Young Leadership Cabinet Retreat. Among them were our very own Sophie Rothstein, Ben Gurion Society chair, and Sarah Schwartz, Young Professionals and Families' chair. The retreat, while preserving many of Cabinet’s timehonored traditions, like caucusing, class-year dinners, and “passing of the gavel,” focused on three essential areas of Federation’s work: Public Affairs, Israel & Global Jewry, and Community & Jewish Life. These priorities represent key components of the Jewish Federations of North America’s mission. The group discussed timely and critical issues, such as antisemitism, security, coalition-building & partnerships, resilience, civil society in Israel, advocacy, local Jewish community ecosystems, and JEDI (Jewish Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion). Their schedule was designed to be interactive, create meaningful touchpoints to connect with each other, and offer options addressing the diverse interests of
young leaders. Haley Trager, our local fifth-year Cabinet member and Federation’s annual campaign chair asserts, “What happens at Cabinet changes the world. Cabinet has strengthened my connection to the work of the Jewish Federations. My life has been enhanced through the experiences I have been offered and the friendships I have formed. It really builds not only our community’s leaders for today, tomorrow, and the next generation, but also our global Jewish community’s leadership. I’m proud to be a part of this group and thrilled Sarah and Sophie are now as well.” “This year’s theme is Ometz Lev meaning ‘strong heart’ or ‘courage.’ ‘Ometz’ (strength) gives leaders resilience and clarity. ‘Lev’ (heart) is the source of compassion and the ability to recognize each individual’s humanity. Taken together, ‘strength’ and ‘heart’ guide leaders at times of uncertainty and change, like the present moment. I'm proud to be part of this year’s class, themed around these characteristics,” said Sophie Rothstein.
Our leadership is called upon to confront pressing challenges and seize real opportunities that will shape the Jewish future. Young leaders who take-on the responsibility of building flourishing Jewish communities at home and globally are at the center. Our community’s presence with NYLC will enable Northeast Florida to continue being instrumental in building a new generation of Jewish leadership.
We are proud of and grateful to Haley, Sarah, and Sophie who take time from their busy lives to help engage others in Jewish life and philanthropy, ensuring Jewish vitality, well-being, and security now and in the future.
The Jewish Federations of North America’s (JFNA) National Young Leadership Cabinet cultivates, trains and inspires the most promising young volunteers for positions of leadership in the Jewish community. Cabinet is a five- year intensive program for ages 30 to 40 with a minimum gift of $5,000 or more to their Federation's yearly annual campaign. The Ben Gurion Society (BGS) recognizes young adults who demonstrate community leadership and contribute a minimum gift of $1,000 or more. BGS was founded on the principles of David Ben Gurion, the first prime minister of Israel, who urged young men and women to channel their power, passion, and resources to build a strong and responsible Jewish community. For more information, email Faye Hedrick at fayeh@jewishjacksonville.org.
Haley Trager and fellow fifth years at NYLC’s Morocco Mission
Jewish Influencers Judith and Stephen Silverman Stephen and Judy Silverman have been Jewish influencers in Jacksonville for many years. Stephen is a past president of both the Jewish Federation and the Foundation. The Silvermans have supported all of our local Jewish agencies as well as Jewish Family & Community Services, steadfastly assisting each of them in growth and success.
By Donna O'Steen, Jewish Family & Community Services
Recently, we had the opportunity to meet with Stephen to inquire about the importance of giving back to and strengthening our community. The Silverman's have been involved with JFCS since 1986 in several capacities, most notably their commitment to our Holocaust survivor poverty program. In 2016, Stephen and Judy attended an event and heard JFCS Executive Director, Colleen Rodriguez speak about our local Holocaust survivors. In the speech, she explained the unique day-to-day struggles they face.
Stephen and Judy, who have ties to a Holocaust survivor through their daughter-in-law, were surprised to learn that over 50% of survivors in Northeast Florida were living at or below the poverty level. Stephen said, "I didn't realize that providing for local survivors was an issue and I felt like it shouldn't be an issue. With all the money raised within our community, we need to take care of this vulnerable population. These people lost their childhood and
innocence. They shouldn't have to suffer a second time or at all. In my opinion, they should not have to live hand to mouth." So, Stephen decided to do something about it by getting the word out to our community and creating the Holocaust Survivor Poverty fund. Initially, nine other friends agreed to be the initial financial supporters and without them, this fund wouldn't have been so successful.
When asked why giving back and taking care of all aspects of our Jewish community was so important, Stephen explained, "If we don't do something to help those who are less fortunate, then how can our community become stronger? How will our children and grandchildren know the importance of the Jewish value system and what it really means to be Jewish? I give back because I grew up with a family who gave back. It truly is Tikkun Olam. Giving back helps to repair the world and we have to educate the next generation to do the same. We lead by example. I believe it is another way of saying 'thank you' to those who helped me along the way. Each
of us is responsible for the other.
"Look, I don't have a crystal ball that can see our future through, but if I had to answer a question about my vision for our Jewish future, I would say that it is my hope that our children/grandchildren will continue what we have started-doing things for the right reasons and taking care of each other," Stephen continued. "I wish the world would be a safer place for all people, regardless of race and religion, where our future generations didn't have to worry about anti-Semitism, hate, synagogue bombings, mass shootings, or war. It starts with education. Judaism teaches that we support each other and our community. It's how things should be done." Executive Director, Colleen Rodriguez added, "JFCS is gifted with the privilege of supporting Northeast Florida Holocaust Survivors. We learned a long time ago that as they age, they have unique needs due to the traumatic experiences they experienced as children/young adults. The support and advocacy that the Silverman's provide enables JFCS to expand the services and supports required to this special group of people. Stephen and Judy understand the importance of supporting the most vulnerable in our community and they do it willingly and with open hearts. We couldn't do what we do every day to enhance the lives of our survivors without them."
Farewell to our Leader, Alan Margolies By Mitzi Saul, Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
After nearly 32 years of leading the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida, formerly the Jacksonville Jewish Federation, as its executive director, Alan Margolies will retire on December 31 of this year. He has spent his entire career of 45 years working in Jewish communal service, taking his first job in 1976 as an entry-level fundraiser for American Friends of Hebrew University. It was beshert that he happened to meet Stanley Rosenberg, AFHU’s Southeast director, in a Publix grocery store in Hallandale, Florida. Complete strangers, they were shopping in the fruit aisle when Stanley, out of the blue, asked Alan if he was looking for a job. The following Monday, he interviewed, and started work. Alan says about that fateful meeting, “It’s so much better to be lucky than good!”
Three years later, he started his Federation journey at the Jewish Federation of Fort Lauderdale as a campaign associate. While there he went on a Young Leadership Mission to Israel, fell in love with Israel and its people, and realized that he could be good at taking people overseas on missions. A few years later, he moved to Rhode Island to become the campaign director at their Federation. Alan was responsible for Major Gifts, allocations and community relations. His career was on an upward track as was his personal life because that’s where he met his wife, Jan. They married and, after seven years, moved to Fort Lauderdale so Alan could become assistant executive director of their Federation, managing a team of 10 to 12 people. Three years later in 1990, Jacksonville’s Federation was looking for a new executive director, and Alan found his true calling and lifetime home. Throughout the years, Alan’s charismatic and creative approaches to developing and strengthening our Jewish community is evidenced from his excellent relationships with synagogue clergy, leadership at area Jewish organizations, schools, and volunteer leadership of the Federation & Foundation. Alan praises them all for making a difference in the lives of so many people. “Everything I’ve accomplished throughout the past 32 years has been done by working side-by-side with 16 presidents, board members and committees, agency and synagogue colleagues, and staff. I’m deeply appreciative to have had an opportunity to experience their resources and talent. Together, we’ve built a Jewish community that is strong, supportive and compassionate.” During last June’s board of directors meeting, Jewish Federation & Foundation President Jennifer Plotkin expressed her appreciation by 22
Alan delivering Rosh Hashanah cards
saying, “We cannot let this moment pass without acknowledging the immeasurable impact that Alan has had on our Northeast Florida Jewish community as well as our Jewish community in Israel and around the world. We are grateful for his leadership and for the strong connections and foundation he has created during his tenure.”
Alan’s proud of the many accomplishments he’s overseen, including establishing a Jewish endowment in the community, helping to fund two Jewish day schools, a strong relationship with Partnership2Gether and the Hadera-Eiron region in Israel, and taking hundreds of people on missions to Israel. “We’ve made a difference in the lives of so Together Again in Israel Trip 2021 many people, of all ages. We created a successful campaign workers mission to Israel program that’s been emulated by our national organization with four missions taking hundreds to Israel.” What’s next? Alan’s other love has been writing poetry. He wants to figure out a way to get his poetry published. He only mentioned when asked, “On the first day of retirement, I’m going to take a deep breath. I have no idea how I’m going to feel at that moment. I’ll just take it all in.” Alan believes that the greatest gift one can give to another is to give an experience of who we are. He adds, “Individuals want the experience of loving and giving. We’ve accomplished this through our annual campaigns and Foundation, allowing the community to fulfill the mitzvah of tzedakah.”
Alan Margolies is a kind and giving man who has dedicated his life to Jewish philanthropy and helping others. We are grateful for his many, many years of devotion, actions and deeds as our beacon of tzedakah and the positive difference he’s made for our community. We wish him continued health and happiness in this next phase of his journey. If you’d like to honor Alan, please consider a donation to The Alan Margolies Israel Experience Scholarship Endowment Fund which will help subsidize future community leaders and staff to experience Israel. Go to JewishJacksonville.org/AlanMargoliesEndowmentFund to make your gift.
Caren Appel with Jan and Alan spending time together.
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FA M I LY, E D U C AT I O N , A N D S E N I O R L I V I N G
OUR JEWISH COMMUNITY’S FUTURE IS BRIGHT WITH B’NAI TZEDEK NEXT GEN PHILANTHROPY By Jennifer Rensch, Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida
As Jews, we value our heritage as people committed to making the world a better place. One of the principles we pass from generation to generation—L’dor V’dor— is the value of charitable giving. The Jewish Federation & Foundation B’nai Tzedek program was created to grow the next generation of Jewish philanthropists by developing young leaders and empowering our next generation to view themselves, even in their youth, as strategic donors. Through Mel and Debbie Gottlieb’s leadership and generosity, the B’nai Tzedek program began in 1999 and redefined philanthropy by showing young adults that they, too, can change the world through a personal and engaged relationship to lifelong giving. The Next Gen Philanthropy Program helps young people learn
about leadership, service, financial literacy, and long-term investing to use their tzedakah for good—now and in the future. Since its inception the program has grown to over $300,000 with 349 individual fundholders.
Every three years, B’nai Tzedek fundholders learn about modern philanthropy and apply their knowledge by voting to make heartfelt grants to the organizations and causes they care about within the Jewish community. As we kick off this coming year’s Next Gen Grant Making process, now is the time to join us in making a significant impact on our community. We urge fundholders to join the committee and take an active role in the Jewish tradition of giving back.
In 2019, following the last round of voting, participants ultimately awarded a total of $45,000 to programming within Jewish Family & Community Services, Jewish Community Alliance, and Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida. At an event to celebrate these grants, Mel said, “Today’s young people stand to inherit an incredible history of success and tzedakah. This program was created to give young people an opportunity to build on that success and put their passion into action. Our Jewish community’s future is bright, but the need for strong leaders and engaged donors will remain. Being philanthropic means that you leave the world somehow better and this is what B’nai Tzedek is about.”
Become a B’nai Tzedek Next Gen Fundholder!
Do you have a child with an upcoming Bar/Bat Mitzvah?
Make the celebration even more meaningful and open a B’nai Tzedek Next Gen Philanthropy Fund with the Jewish Foundation! Step 1: Donate $125 to open a fund
Step 2: Jewish Foundation matches your $125 Step 3: The Gottlieb Family matches $250
Start: Now you have a $500 fund! Your child’s journey in becoming a Jewish philanthropist begins. Their money is invested to grow for Jewish tomorrows. To open a B’nai Tzedek Next Gen Philanthropy Fund, contact Kellie Smith, Foundation Director, at (904) 512-3796 or KellieK@jewishjacksonville.org.
PARTNER PAINTING AT RIVER GARDEN! By Leslie Held, River Garden Senior Services and senior would work together on one canvas which, when completed, was hung in our Art Gallery upstairs.
After a long hiatus, our beloved intergenerational art experience returned with a slight modification due to the virus. Historically, a few times a year, students arrived to jointly create a work of art with those living on our campus. Each student
In October, residents and members of The Coves each received a uniquely painted canvas that the students from the Jacksonville Jewish Center had pre-painted with various backgrounds. The students were provided a subject matter and had full autonomy on using their creativity to bring the canvas to life. Each new session
always begins with a unique theme. With Fall approaching our theme was “veggie painting”. With the backgrounds completed our artists were given only vegetables to paint with.
From “Joseph’s Coat of Many Colors”, The Garden of Eden, a Hamsa, and Landscapes, their combined efforts resulted in beautiful pieces. We welcome you to stop by our Art Gallery on the second floor and see our artists’ current works. The completed canvases will rotate in the Gallery every few months and perhaps student artists will be able to attend the next session in person, sitting side-by-side with their partner.
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TORAH ACADEMY'S HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS DIVISION By Breindy Lazor, Torah Academy
High School girls prepping for their bake sale
It's a pleasure for me to share the goings-on and happenings at Torah Academy's High School Girls Division! Our theme this year is Positive Leadership and, in that vein, we began our school year with a discussion about Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, of blessed memory, and his articles on leadership, specifically Jewish leadership. Being able to define and identify true, healthy and positive leadership is critical to helping us understand how to be the leaders we want to be in our lives. Our high school girls then chose a Jewish leader to research, whose life and actions illustrated one of the seven traits of leadership that Rabbi Sacks describes as crucial for effective leadership. Good leaders must look back in order to look forward and so, as future Jewish leaders, our students are learning about the Holocaust in their Modern Jewish History class. This is in conjunction with the Names, Not Numbers Holocaust Program in which students will have a hands-on experience interacting with, interviewing and
documenting the testimonies of survivors in a documentary that the students will create. Their work in this project will enable future generations, who will never meet the survivors, to hear their eyewitness accounts.
As Chanukah approaches, the high school students are also hard at work creating their own mini magazine with articles, recipes, games and other fun features that they look forward to distributing to the Jewish community in Jacksonville and beyond. We're so proud of our students who are using their technology, graphic design, writing and editing skills to create this original publication. Of course, all of this is in addition to their Judaic and Secular studies course loads. Our high school students are the most wonderful group of talented, kind, thoughtful and creative individuals!
DUBOW PRESCHOOL JEWISH INFLUENCERS: MORAH RACHEL, MORAH MIRIAM AND MORAH KAREN By Liat Walker, DuBow Preschool
Early childhood education is the gateway to Jewish life.
to the earth and respect for all living things.
A weekly Shoobee Doobee Shabbat enhances our love for Shabbat where our “Ema and Abba” lead us in the blessings over candles, grape juice, and challah. Hazzan Holzer adds music and humor to the weekly celebration.
Whether it’s Shabbat, a Torah story or holiday, DuBow students are excited to learn in their special Jewish Studies classroom & the garden!
The children at the DuBow Preschool enjoy Jewish traditions, rituals, and holidays through song, dance, stories and experiential learning. The children learn about Israel, Hebrew words, Torah stories, prayers, holiday customs and Jewish values with Morah Rachel (Robin Morris) and Morah Miriam (Michelle Margol). Each week the children also experience the week’s Torah portion. It started with Breisheet by pantomiming the days of creation, making a recycled rainbow for Parashat Noah, as well as learning about hospitality by visiting Avraham and Sarah’s tent.
In the garden with Morah Karen (Karen Morse), Torah & nature are combined to better understand our connection
The holidays of Tu B’Shevat (the New Year for the Trees), Hanukkah, Passover, and Yom Ha’Atzmaut are celebrated in the garden through hands-on experiences. During Hanukkah students help decorate the garden and "light" a life-size Hanukkiah using potted plants as candles. On Tu B'shevat students prepare the raised beds for spring planting. And on Passover we "travel" to Egypt, make "pyramids” out of Legos, search for frogs, cross the Red Sea, and enter the promised land. Yom HaAtzmaut is a favorite as we "fly" to Israel, pass through customs, get our passports stamped, shop at the shuk, visit a kibbutz, milk a cow, and visit the Kotel where prayers are left.
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2ND GENERATION HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR STORIES COME TO LIFE DURING THE PANDEMIC By Hilary Bettman, Jewish Family & Community Services
Louis Post sharing his story
Just prior to the pandemic, a small group of Second Generation Holocaust Survivors formed with the goal to develop the story of their families to be told during tours of the Frisch Family Memorial Holocaust Gallery. What was supposed to be a monthly meeting to workshop their presentations became a weekly Zoom call with 2nd Gen members as the pandemic ravaged the community. It became less of a volunteer opportunity and more a cathartic experience. Through the hard work they did they has developed profoundly moving stories that have been presented to community members and leaders alongside our virtual Holocaust education and gallery tours.
Helen Meatte sharing her story
JFCS honors Irene Jaffa, Louis Post, Molly Kushner, Gloria Einstein, Lisa Ullmann, Yvonne Cohen and Helen Meatte for their hard work and dedication in sharing their family’s stories to the next generation.
GIFT FROM DAVID AND LINDA STEIN NAMES RIVER GARDEN CAMPUS IN HONOR OF FAMILY HISTORY By Christina Levine, River Garden Senior Services
Marty Goetz, Mauri Mizrahi, Linda & David Stein, and Elliott Palevsky. David and Linda Stein made a significant gift to the River Garden Foundation earlier this year that both names the campus and endows its medical program. Their generous commitment continues their family’s legacy at River Garden. David’s grandmother, Rose Stein of blessed
memory, was a member of the Ladies Hebrew Sheltering Aid Society currently known as the River Garden Auxiliary. These thoughtful women recognized a need for a haven for elderly Jews and set a goal to establish an exceptional, caring nursing home for the city of Jacksonville.
On Friday, October 29, 2021, River Garden board leadership, staff and friends and family of the Steins gathered at the campus to reveal the new sign and celebrate the family’s legacy. “Over the years our family has been
privileged to be a part of River Garden and to help it grow into the outstanding facility it is today. I am especially proud of my grandmother, Rose Stein, whose goal to create a Jewish home providing loving care for seniors in our city has been achieved and continues to thrive today,” David Stein remarked.
Mauri Mizrahi, Chief Executive Officer of River Garden, says “There is nothing more impactful than multi-generational philanthropy, and David & Linda’s generous gift to name the campus and endow the medical program is a testament to this. We are extremely grateful to the Steins, who share our vision of continued excellence for the future.” 29
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THE GROW AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM GOES OUT ON AN ISRAEL QUEST! By Devorah Hamford, Chabad of St. Johns
Judaism thriving in the Diaspora. By the end of the year, we will have empowered Jewish children who are proudly connected to Israel’s heritage, history, and future.
“Education is at the core of everything” said Mrs. Dini Sharfstein, director of the Grow program, “What we teach children in their formative years creates an indelible impact and foundation for their entire adult lives. And not only are the students themselves transformed, but the positive impact of their learning extends to their families, friends, classmates, communities, and beyond.” The Grow After School Enrichment Program is a project of Chabad of St. Johns For more info visit JewishSJohnsCounty.com/Grow call (904) 701-4422 or email Dini@JewishSJohnsCounty.com Children at Chabad of St. Johns Grow After School Program created an edible map of Israel, continuing the story of how our ancestors arrived in the promised land
Just after the High Holidays, Chabad St. Johns launched a new curriculum for the Grow After School program.
Now, more than ever before, there is a vital and immediate need to engage Jewish children with a deep connection and pride for the Holy Land and its central role in the Jewish past, present, and future. At Grow we have developed exactly this. Israel Quest is an immersive and transformative curriculum that enables our children to form deep attachments to Israel on practical, emotional and spiritual levels.
Using educational tools such as Virtual Reality, topography, theater, filmmaking, STEAM activities, and more, students will relive the journey of the Jewish People in the Land of Israel, from the time the Jews entered the land led by prophets and kings, until the untimely destruction of the Holy Temples. They will discover the secret to our eternal survival as a nation with tools that were established to keep
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T H R O U G H T H E L E N S I N N O R T H E A S T F LO R I DA
In November, the Together Again in Israel mission visited Pelter Winery, Haifa, Tel Aviv, the Bahai Gardens, the Western Wall, and more! We are so grateful that we were able to explore Israel again.
Welcoming new CEO Mariam Shpeen Feist to the Northeast Florida Jewish community was a wonderful experience! Thank you to all the visitors who also did a mitzvah and brought food to donate to the Max Block Food Pantry.
Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue, Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida, and PJ Library hosted a Beaches Ladies Night Out event at the beautiful home of Dr. Rebekah Richmond. Guest speaker, Eva Grayzel, inspired attendees with ways to bring Jewish traditions into their everyday lives. It was a lovely evening that welcomed newcomers to the area and connected old friends. The joint program was made possible by the Jewish Grant Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation part of the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida.
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SEE & BE SCENE
Children and grown ups enjoyed Miss Laurie at the Grown Up and Me program at Beth El, The Beaches Synagogue. The program is made possible due to the generosity of the Jewish Community Foundation and in collaboration with PJ Library and Women's Division of Federation. Call Elissa at Beth El for more information (904) 273-9100.
Each month Chabad of St. Johns sponsors a Kosher Food club at Creekside High School. We get together for a breakfast with a new theme and food each month. This month was A Morning in Dubai: we ate Dubai delicacy Knafeh, learned about the Dubai Jewish community, and talked about how we can be proud of who we are wherever we are.
River Garden Board Presidents Gloria Einstein, Larry Goldberg, Sandy Zimmerman and Debby Lafer pose with Linda & David Stein on ribbon-cutting day.
Stein family members were able to join for a small reception on the River Garden campus after the ribbon-cutting
"All in This Together," the newest Hadassah Jacksonville Interest Group, is a group of active, adult single women who have lost their life partners and wish to support each other while having fun. On October 23, group members met for Havdalah and a potluck dinner. The next event is a Hanukkah party on December 5. For more information, contact Gail Greenfield at gailsgreenfield@gmail.com.
Congregation Ahavath Chesed held their annual Tailgate Shabbat before the big game last week. Shabbat Shireinu is for everyone of all ages!
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Martin J. Gottlieb Day School performing the mitzvah of honoring Using their award from the 2021 the dead at the grave of Martin J. Jewish Grant Fund of the Jewish Gottlieb on their first off-campus Community Foundation, Martin J. mitzvah trip in 18 months. Gottlieb Middle School students packaged and sent 80 Shabbat boxes to families new to Jacksonville.
Story time during the DuBow Preschool & Martin J. Gottlieb Day School library book fair
What's school without an egg drop at Torah Academy?
Every year the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School and DuBow Preschool families collect food and money for needy families in our community. The middle school students sort the food, buy turkeys, and delivers them to families in need. This is part of the middle school mitzvah program.
Monday Night Learn resumes in person and Zoom at Etz Chaim.
Sukkos decorations with Morah Devora at Torah Academy
On October 22, Torah Academy had a special magician come in for the lower school, grades pre-K through 4th grade. He performed magic tricks while teaching our students how to stand up to bullies.
Having fun while learning Torah at Torah Academy!
Torah Academy High School field trip on David Robbins' Horse Farm.
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SHARING RECIPES
BANANA NUT MUFFINS By Helen Hill, Hadassah Jacksonville
What do you do with over-ripe bananas? I always smash them, store them in baggies, and freeze them so I can have them on hand and bake up these yummy muffins any time. These banana-nut muffins are great to make ahead and especially this month, when company comes over or when you need a little something to take to some else's house, these easy-to-make muffins are perfect. I've made them for years and they're a great go-to recipe and a delicious go-to treat to always have available.
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9-inch round pan and cover in parchment paper. 2. Mix the almond flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon together in a large bowl.
3. In another large bowl, mix applesauce, eggs, honey, olive oil, almond extract and whisk. 4. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix.
5. Fold the diced apples, nuts and dates into the batter
6. Pour the batter into the round baking pan. Top with a few slices of apples to decorate the top. 7. Bake for 50 - 55 minutes or until an inserted knife comes out clean.
INGREDIENTS
2 cups blanched almond flour (not almond meal) 1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp Celtic sea salt ½ tsp cinnamon
½ cup unsweetened applesauce 4 large eggs
½ cup honey
¼ cup olive oil
1 tsp almond extract
1½ diced apples (1 - 2 apples, leave a few apple slices for decoration)
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans ½ cup dates chopped
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FA I T H A N D I N S P I R AT I O N and monsters. Little did I know that there was a prayer that could have afforded me a lot of extra legroom.
As part of the bedtime Sh’ma, the prayer “B’Sheim Hashem” mentions four angelic figures, watching over us in all directions: on my right, Michael ("Who is Like God?") on my left Gavriel ("God's Strength”), before me Uriel ("Light of God"), behind me Refael ("It is God Who heals”), and above me the presence of God.
By Hazzan Jesse Holzer, Jacksonville Jewish Center
I had a bunk bed when I was growing up. The top bed and most of the bottom bunk were filled to the brim with stuffed animals, my first line of defense against the nighttime ghosts
Over time, I’ve sung this prayer for my own children and included it as standard liturgy for our frequent healing services. When we recite the prayer, we think of the angels on high, the angels of biblical origin, the angels of our tradition. We also think of the angels who are loved ones now here only in spirit, continuing to add
light, strength, and healing when we need it most.
And yet sometimes we forget the angels who are here, physically, in our everyday lives. There are friends and community who are our rock. And there are those we meet for only a moment, but their small actsmiling when we are at our lowest of lows, giving of tzedakah, or even holding a door, remind us of our own capacity to be like the angels. As we are asked to be a ner, bringing light to this dark time of the year, may we know that we too, through even the smallest of sacred acts, are angels for one another. May we find strength, healing, sacredness and light in one another in the new year.
B ' N A I M I T Z VA H
R E M E M B E R T H E PA S T A N D E D U C AT E F O R T H E F U T U R E
Mazel Tov to Hank Shapiro on becoming a Bar Mitzvah! Through his participation in Chain of Memory he demonstrates the importance of remembering the past as well as educating the future. Chain of Memory makes it possible for B’nai Mitzvah to remember one of the 1.5 million children who were murdered by the Nazis before being able to fulfill the mitzvah of learning Torah. The B’nai Tzedek Program, with the support of Mel and Debbie Gottlieb, helps young people learn about leadership, service, financial literacy, and long-term investing to use their tzedekah for good. The Gift of Israel Program, designed in cooperation with the Levin family, was established to encourage teens to visit Israel by providing them with a $700 subsidy towards an accredited travel program. Hank Shapiro for B'nai Tzedek, Chain of Memory, and Gift of Israel
On November 13, Hank Shapiro became a Bar Mitzvah at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. As part of the Center’s B’nai Mitzvah program, Hank chose 13 mitzvot that engaged the family in strengthening their Jewish home, synagogue, and community, including reciting Shabbat prayers on Friday night, giving tzedekah, and planting a tree in Israel. The most meaningful mitzvah to Hank was caring for his grandparents. He currently attends 7th grade at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School where his favorite subjects include physical education and language arts.
Hank has chosen to dedicate this special occasion to the memory of Yizhak Godin. Yizhak was born in 1927 to Shmuel and Reshka Godin. Yizhak was one of six siblings. The family lived in what would become the Warsaw ghetto. When the war began, three of Yizhak’s siblings fled to Moscow. Yizhak, his parents, and his youngest sibling, Henya, were sent to a concentration camp. All four died in the Holocaust around 1942-1943. Yizhak was a young teenager, and Henya was only eleven. 42
IT'S YOUR BUSINESS
SPOTLIGHT ON JEWISH-OWNED BUSINESSES
BRIGHTWAY INSURANCE, RIVERSIDE By Mitzi Saul, Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida
“Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.” ― Henry David Thoreau
Daniel Miller is the epitome of young leadership. He is a former board member of the JCA, Congregation Ahavath Chesed, former chair of the Young Professionals & Families division, former VP on the executive board of the Jewish Federation & Foundation, and member of Leadership Jax class of 2020. In 2014, he was honored to be the recipient of the Ilene Sari Selevan Young Leadership Award. Daniel is a board member of the Jewish Federation & Foundation and is stepping up to lead the Genesis Society, a newly formed group of philanthropists for 2022. Daniel states, “Community is part of my ethos. I’m committed to helping make an impact specifically in the Jewish community.”
To understand Daniel’s success in philanthropy and in business, one only has to look back at his education,
activities, and circuitous career path. A Jacksonville native, Daniel attended Wolfson High School and Florida State University where he received degrees in International Business and Political Science. He spent a summer on Kibbutz Yahel in the Negev in Israel and was director of the Jewish Student Union while at FSU. He moved to Sydney, Australia two weeks after graduating and later lived in London and New York City where he was a fundraiser for the United Way. It was at that job where he developed skills in federated giving that he applies in his volunteer leadership with the Jewish Federation & Foundation today. In 2006, Daniel moved back to Jacksonville to join his brothers’ David and Michael Miller’s insurance business. Starting on the ground floor, he quickly learned the various aspects of the business and saw the potential of running his own agency. More importantly, Daniel had a desire to help others, his community, and wanted to build a small business. In 2007, he opened Brightway Insurance-Riverside, an independent insurance brokerage firm. His agency of six employees provides personalized insurance for people in different life stages and specializes in homeowners, auto insurance, and small business coverage. According to Daniel, “We’re not a typical insurance agency. We offer expert advice, more choice of insurance companies, and can leverage technology more than we ever have before. For instance, we can shop 50 different carriers at one time
to save our clients’ money and customize policies to provide the coverage they need at the price they want.”
Daniel coaches his sales staff to say to themselves, “How can we make this the best call of the day?” This sets the tone for the buying experience that doesn’t end after the policy is sold. They guide clients throughout the insurance lifecycle from helping clients cancel old policies to helping people when they need it most. Daniel asks clients to store his cell number on their phones for emergencies. “I’ve had clients call me at 2 a.m. to say their house is on fire. I genuinely care. They’re my clients, my friends, my family, and everyone’s treated the same. We give our clients the best advice for the current conditions.” Daniel’s married to Lior Spring, Director of Impact for the Miller Families, and they have two sons, Jacob (six years old) who attends Martin J. Gottlieb Day School and Ezra (three years old) who attends the Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool at the JCA. “I want my kids to know we’re all on this life journey together. We should make every day count and continue to help our community.” There’s no doubt that Daniel’s making every day count both personally and professionally and also making an impact in his Jewish community.
Looking for insurance? Contact Daniel Miller at (904) �54-4555 or daniel. miller@brightway.com. Offices are located at 2104 Park Street in Riverside.
WORTH THE SCHELP Watercolor Cards Dec. 1 JCA 2:00 - 5:00 PM Create a set of watercolor cards to give to loved ones. $20 for members, $30 for others. Register at https://bit.ly/ JCARegistrationLink or call (904) 730-2100 ext. 228. Hanukkah Icemen Game Dec. 1 Veterans Memorial Arena 7:00 - 9:30 PM Come celebrate the 4th night of Hanukkah with the Jacksonville Icemen! $18 per person. Buy tickets at Jaxiceman.com/jhn. Ladies Chanukah White Elephant Gift Swap Dec. 2 Starbucks at Jax Beach 7:00 PM Meet friends & enjoy a fun girls night! Bring a wrapped gift with a value of $10. Menorah Lighting and Chanukah inspiration followed by gift swap. RSVP at www.chabadbeaches.com or at (904) 770-0502 Chanukah Shabbat Dec. 3 Congregation Ahavath Chesed Dinner 5:45 and Service 6:45 PM $5 per person, children under 5 are free. Bring your chanukiah to light! RSVP at https://bit.ly/chanukahshabbat Visiting Rabbi Program Dec. 4, 10, 11, 17, 24, 25 First Congregation Sons of Israel St. Augustine We are pleased to welcome Rabbi Joel Fox and Rabbi Mona Decker to our Visiting Rabbi Program. For info and times, contact fcsi1924@gmail.com or (904) 829-9532
Parent-and-Me Playdate! Dec. 5 & 12 Congregation Ahavath Chesed 9:00 - 9:30 Free Breakfast 9:30 - 11:00 Parent-and-Me Program RSVP to garad@thetemplejax.org Let’s Have a Chanukah Fun Day! Dec. 5 Congregation Ahavath Chesed 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Chanukah Fun Day is open to all. We will feature Chanukah bingo, carnival games, food, drinks and more! RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/29z9b5ps or call at (904) 733-7078 Beth El The Beaches Community Hanukkah Celebration & Dinner Dec. 5 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Join us for our annual Hanukkah celebration and dinner with music, dreidels and more! RSVP https://conta.cc/30wSMN5 by Dec. 1. Hadassah's All in this Together Hanukkah Party Dec. 5 Solano Grove Clubhouse, 9252 San Jose Blvd. 3:00 PM
9:15 AM - 12:15 PM Join Gary Sass for an updated historical walking tour of Jacksonville’s secret underground tunnels wonders. Transportation from the JCA is included. Lunch at your own expense. Register at https://bit.ly/JCARegistrationLink or call (904) 730-2100 ext. 228. Virtually Limitless: Shared Shelf (virtual) Dec. 8 12:30 PM Register at: http://jfedsorgNWPsharedshelf PJ Library Mom’s Night Out Dec. 9 7:00 - 9:00 PM Welcome all PJ moms! Join us for a “Mom’s Night Out” and enjoy good food and cocktails. RSVP to mgwilliams@jfcsjax.org. Latkes & Vodkas - 5th Year Dec. 11 Jacksonville Jewish Center 8:00 - 11:30 PM Register at bit.ly/2021latkesandvodkas $36 for Adults, $25 for Young Professionals (21-30), $50 at the door
RSVP to Ilana Manasse (904) 56363000, Ina Taffett (904) 737-7848, or Marlene Sussman (904) 732-9990
Civic Orchestra Dec. 12 Jacksonville Jewish Center 2:30 - 5:00 PM
Menorah Lighting at the World Golf Hall of Fame Dec. 5 Tropy Tower, 1 World Golf Place, St. Augustine, FL 32092 6:30 PM
Hadassah Invites you to Cook Israeli Brunch with Stav! Dec. 14 JCA or virtual 11:30 AM
Families are invited to a giant menorah lighting, dancing, latkas and more. Free and open to the public! Jax Top-to-Bottom Walking Tour and Lunch Dec. 7 JCA
Join Stav Brener, Israel Shaliach at the Jewish Federation & Foundation, as he demonstrates cooking his brunch favorites. RSVP at jacksonvillehadassah@ gmail.com 45
WORTH THE SCHELP Floral Bouquet Still Life Dec. 15 JCA 2:00 - 5:00 PM
Tuesdays Together with Federation & Foundation January 4 First Watch, 9271 Baymeadows Rd 10:00 AM
Paint a bouquet of flowers from life. This oil painting class is great for all. JCA members $20, $30 for others. Register at https://bit.ly/JCARegistrationLink or call (904) 730-2100 ext. 228. Discover Israel Film Series: The Band Dec. 15 JCA 6:30 - 8:30 PM Join us to watch this iconic Israeli movie! For more info email jaxshlichut@jewishjacksonville.org
New to Northeast Florida? Join us for coffee and conversation. Register at: https://events.idonate.com/ welcomeoctober2021 Cafe Israeli with Shaliach Stav Brener Dec. 16 JCA 6:00 - 7:00 PM Gather together, to enjoy Israeli snacks, coffee and to talk about anything connected to Israel! For more info, email jaxshlichut@jewishjacksonville.org
Women’s Philanthropy Champagne Brunch January 23 Jacksonville Jewish Center 10:00 AM RSVP at https://events.idonate.com/ champagnebrunch2022
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
HELP ACROSS NORTHEAST FLORIDA
River Garden is the go-to resource for high-quality adult care in Jacksonville. Honoring our Jewish traditions, the dedicated staff, leadership and volunteers are all committed to a best-in-class experience. Whether it is for you, your spouse, parents or friend, be sure to request River Garden.
PJ Library, the award-winning free program for books and music is open to all families with Jewish children in Jacksonville. If your children are between the ages of six months and eight years, they are eligible. Please sign up now by going to pjlibrary.org/communities/ jacksonville or calling Melissa Willams at (904) 394-5724.
JFCS, in partnership with Margo's Catering, is pleased to bring you our meal program Meals4You. Meals are delicious, nutritious, convenient and delivered right to your door. Jewish dietary laws are observed. Call Nicole Andrews at (904) 394-5810 for more information.
T ORAH A CADEMY OF JACKSONVILLE
Every Tuesday from 3:15 to 4:15, Torah Academy hosts a free kosher food program sponsored by the USDA for children under 18. The program helps provide food during these trying times. For more info, contact shorowitz@torah-academy.com.
Through a partnership with GO GO Grandparent and a grant from the Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, JFCS is now offering immediate rides through our Call2Go program. Riders will no longer have to call to book transportation. They will now be able to use an "on demand" service available at their fingertips! GO GO Grandparent will have booking agents available 24/7. When a client calls, the agent will book, monitor and stay available to the client until the ride is complete. Riders MUST pre-register with Nicole Brown at (904) 394-5724 and have a cell phone (texting is not necessary) to use this service. Call2Go is available to those in need of transportation to attend synagogue, medical appointments and other important outings. A sliding fee scale is available. Don't be deceived by the name. . .you don't have to be a grandparent to use the program. Call Nicole today!
Admissions (904) 886-8420 Adult Day (904) 288-7858 Home Health Care (904) 288-7851 Outpatient Rehab (904) 886-8454 The Coves (904) 292-2683 Volunteers (904) 886-8429 Foundation (904) 886-8430 MAIN (904) 260-1818
Searching for identity hosts writing workshops for second and third generation holocaust survivors. Meet monthly in a confidential and judgement-free setting, in-person/ online, to explore experiences, capture important stories and explore identity. RSVP at www.searchingforidentity.org/ writing-workshops.
8505 San Jose Blvd Jacksonville, FL 32217
NONPROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID JACKSONVILLE, FL PERMIT NO. 146
