Jacksonville Jewish News - February 2017 by JewishLife Magazine

VITAL DOLLARS DONATED Fla. First Coast Relief fund nets nearly $400K to help those affected by Hurricane Matthew this past October Page 4

A CUBAN ADVENTURE

Executive Dir. at the Temple makes Jewish themed trip to the island Page 16

A NEW ERA FOR JFCS

Construction to the agency’s new building is now underway and progressing Page 30 A publication

February 2017

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JaxJewishTV • Volume 29, Number 8 • 40 pages

Anne Frank Super Sunday is Feb. 5th, will you be our hero? exhibit to take BY SHYLIE BANNON center stage at MOSH in Feb. rGEN Super Sunday Chair

BY ARLENE WOLFSON Museum of Science & History

Those who haven’t already taken advantage of the opportunity to visit the ‘Anne Frank: A History for Today’ exhibition at MOSH still have time to be a part of this meaningful and important experience before it leaves town Feb. 12. For exhibit hours, events and more information, go to annefrankjax.com or theMOSH.org. Also in conjunction with the Anne Frank exhibition, the ‘Voices of Hope’ initiative, created with the greater Jacksonville community to promote productive discussions that address prejudice and discrimination, is offering several fascinating programs. Among them will be ‘Rosenwald’, a documentary about Jewish philanthropist Julius Rosenwald and renowned African American educator and civil rights activist Booker T. Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 7 p.m. at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. This ﬁlm focuses on the story of the two, who worked together to build more than 5,000 schools for black children in the south in the early 1900s. The ﬁlm will be followed by a discussion with Dr. Howard Dodson, Director Emeritus of the Schomburg Center for Black Culture in New York, who will explain Rosenwald’s connection to Jacksonville. Tickets are $10 and doors open at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call 904-8996038 or visit CummerMuseum.org/event/ rosenwald-movie-and-discussion. WJCT will also present ‘An Evening with Dr. Richard Freund - The Secret Escape Tunnel from the Holocaust in Lithuania’, Thursday, Feb. 9, at 6 p.m.

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s a member of the Jacksonville Jewish community. On Sunday, Feb. 5, while many of the local citizens are busy preparing for Super Bowl parties, members of the Jacksonville Jewish community will volunteer their respective mornings to be Superheroes for the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville by participating in its annual ‘Super Sunday’ phone-a-thon. Super Sunday is organized by rGEN, the Federation’s young adults division, and sponsored by Gary and Nancy Perlman. This year, Superhero volunteers will aim to soar to new heights and surpass the total contributions raised on Super Sunday in 2016, totaling $161,000. These volunteers range from the youngest, who are students at the partner agencies of the Torah Academy of Jacksonville and the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, to those affiliated with the River Garden Senior Services. Together for a few hours, the volunteers will place calls to 3,500 homes, inviting members of the local Jewish community to become heroes in their own right, by continuing to support Jewish life in Jacksonville and abroad. The funds raised by the various community’s Superheroes who answer the call on Super Sunday support Jewish needs in Jacksonville, in Israel and worldwide, as

rGEN Super Sunday Chair Shylie Bannon

Federation’s Annual Campaign touches lives in more than 70 countries throughout the world. The immediate benefits will be felt by students in local day schools whose connections with their Jewish identities are strengthened on a daily basis in their educational environments, and also by Holocaust Survivors who are provided transportation, meal services, and care by the Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS). Those who receive skilled nursing and rehabilitative care at River Garden in a religiously supportive environment will also benefit from

your generosity. Federation’s Campaign also sustains the Jacksonville community’s connection to Israel through subsidized missions and cultural programs through the Jewish Community Alliance, as well as supporting youth programs through the city’s various synagogues and Chabads. If you are ready to be the Superhero our community needs, both in our own backyard and abroad, please register to volunteer Sunday, Feb. 5th at jewishjacksonville. or/superheroes17. For more information, please contact Ariel Frechtman at arielf@ jewishjackonville.org or 904-448-5000, ext. 1208. If you are unable to join the efforts as a volunteer, earn your Superhero cape by answering the call you receive on Sunday morning, and joining the Federation in its mission to continue strengthening Jewish communities at home and throughout the world.

JCA leads impactful trip to Israel for local agency professionals

8505 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32217

Jewish Federation of Jacksonville

Monthly Periodical POSTMASTER PLEASE DELIVER BY FEB. 1ST

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Jacksonville, FL Permit No. 146

See ANNE FRANK EXHIBIT, p. 20 Enjoying lunch at the North’s Asaf Winery By Jewish Federation of Jacksonville

In early December, more than a dozen professionals from the Jacksonville Jewish community embarked on an eight day journey to Israel following 10 previous months of study here in the states. The group, comprised of 11 employees of the Jewish Community Alliance, a pair from Jewish Family & Community Services and another from the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville came together each month to discuss assigned topics and articles they were given prior to each session. The topics ranged from the history of the land to the modern day conflict and even modern day technology which spans a vast majority of the country. “The readings beforehand truly educated me and they reinforced things that I learned when I was a child, especially from a biblical and historical perspective,” explained JFCS Director of Development and Marketing, Kathy Wohlhuter. “They also gave us some context in understanding Israel

The 15 employees from the JCA, JFCS and Federation pose for just one of many memorable moments during their more than week long trip to Israel this past December

today.” With sufficient preparation and knowledge in toe, the group boarded a flight in Jacksonville, bound for New York’s JFK, which would eventually take them to Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv the following day. Upon arrival the 11 woman and three man crew met their tour educator and bus driver and began a more than week journey which would take them on stops in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Masada and the Golan Heights. Important and educational sites such as the Palmach Museum in Tel Aviv, Yad Vashem in Jerusalem and the ancient city of Tzippori in the north, provided each professional with important insight into the nation’s rich history and role in building a modern day and thriving society. “I think what we received on a daily basis was a complete narrative on how Israel came to be,” said Federation Communications Director Matt Franzblau. “To see how exactly the seeds were planted for the place we were rediscovering each day was a special experience because it was done through the lens

of people who helped plant those seeds and water them throughout the years.” While some like Franzblau had been to Israel before, others on the trip were traveling to this very sacred land for the very first time. One of those people included preschool teacher Cheryl Cumm who has been working at the ‘J’ for a total of 32-years. “Even though I am not Jewish, I found it very emotional to watch my friends and co-workers who are Jewish and see how connected they are to the land,” she said. “You get over there and you see this is where you belong and this is where it all happened, so that was very moving for me,” One of those coworkers who Cumm was

See JCA ISRAEL TRIP, p. 6

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

opinion and cartoons

Rabbinically Speaking Column: What I Learned from a Tree BY RABBI LEVI VOGEL Chabad of S. Augustine

Tu B’shevat, the day we celebrate the New Year for trees, falls on Feb. 11th this year. The Torah states, “ki ha’adam eitz hasadeh” -- “Man is like the tree of the field” (Devarim 20:19). The prophets compare the Jewish people to various trees. In what way is man likened to a tree and what lessons can we learn from this? Here are a few. 1. Tender loving care - Did you ever try to grow a tree? If you did, you know very well the amount of care it requires. Even a slight damage or nick to the seed or tender sapling will cause a gross malformation in the grown tree. Once a tree is fully grown, however, it can withstand even large scrapes and bruises. Education is no different, as a young child’s mind and heart are so delicate and the formative years are the most crucial. The highest priority should be given to ensure that they receive a proper Jewish education and are not exposed to undesirable ‘nicks and bruises.’ Every positive influence parents and teachers have on small children will be greatly am-

plified in the years to come. Never put off a child’s Jewish education until he/she matures. By then it is usually too late. 2. Be productive - A tree attains fulfillment when it produces good fruit and the beauty of a tree is the fruit it produces. The fulfillment of Mitzvot and good deeds we do are man’s fruits. The more one does, the more beautiful a Jew one becomes. Furthermore, good fruit is not merely good in itself, but also contains the seeds to produce new trees and fruits after its kind, to the end of time. Similarly, it is within the ability of every Jew to set a good example for others that they may also act in a G-dly way, performing Mitzvot and good deeds. They in turn will influence others in a chain reaction of great magnitude. 3. Keep on growing - A tree never stops growing. No matter how large the tree is, every year it adds height and girth. Additionally, the tree isn’t satisfied with the fruit it produced last season because every year it continues to offer the world new fresh produce. We too must always continue to grow in our service of G-d and relationship with our fellow man. The good we produced yesterday

RABBINICALLY SPEAKING doesn’t exempt us from doing the same today. On the contrary, our past achievements should inspire us to constantly reach yet higher. 4. Always remember your foundation - A tree cannot survive, and certainly won’t produce a quality crop, unless it has strong viable roots. The roots lie deep under the ground, unmoving and serene. A strong and deeply rooted tree can withstand the harshest elements and no wind will shake

it. The roots of our people are our ancestors, the Torah and our trust in G-d. They lay deep within us, at our very core, where there is no storm, no struggle. There is only the One, the Infinite, for whom all the cosmos with all its challenges are nothing more than a fleeting spec renewed every moment from the void. The deeper our connection with our roots, the stronger we will be as Jews and the less we will be moved by the societal pressures and challenges that we are faced with in every generation. Our strength is from our bond with these roots and with their nurture we will outlive the storm and bring beauty to the world we were planted within. 5. Transforming Life’s Challenges - So, if we’re celebrating trees and their lessons, shouldn’t we do so in the spring? Why now, right in the middle of winter? Yes, it may be the coldest time of the year, but the 15th of Shevat marks a turning point, a time when under all that cold and snow the sap of the trees is rising, readying for spring. In a sense, the 15th of Shevat signifies that sometimes it is precisely from within the darkest and coldest moments of our lives that the new blossoms burst

forth, so happy growing! Originally from Rochester, N.Y., Levi Vogel has been the Rabbi at the Chabad of S. Augustine since 2007. He is married to Fraidy and they have six children. Guided by the inspiration of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneerson, they established the Chabad Center as a place where Jews from all backgrounds can feel welcome to explore the warmth and joy of their beautiful heritage.

Rabbinically speaking is a monthly column written by clergy members in the Jacksonville Jewish community. If you are a Rabbi, hazzan or religious leader in NE Florida and would like to contribute your inspirational thoughts for a monthly column, please e-mail jjn@jewishjacksonville.org with your name, organization, congregation and which month you are interested in writing for and what topic, specifically you would like to write about.

Druze and Jews both prepare for the IDF, together with the help and support of the Jewish Agency BY IBRIAHIM SAFI

Jewish-Druze Military Academy

A Druze success story in Israel, Ibrahim Safi dreamed of connecting the Druze Community with Israeli society as a whole. Now he is operating a pre-military academy where Jews and Druze prepare for the army together. I was born in the Druze village of Maghar. In elementary school, I realized that if I wanted to succeed in Israeli society, I needed to go to a Jewish school. So I went to study at the Jerusalem High School for the Arts. That’s where I first came into contact with Jewish society, and began to understand its mentality. I decided to enlist in the IDF elite. I joined the Sayeret Matkal unit, and then I joined one of the elite infantry units (Egoz), in which I held several command positions. During my military service, I realized I was on the right track. I was successful. On the weekends, when I was off duty, I decided to start training young people entering the military from Druze villages. This proved to be very successful - many of the young recruits that I trained entered combat units and rose to become commanders. I understood from early on that because the Druze villages have very talented young people who have high leadership skills, all they

need is some help to connect them to Israeli society in order for them to achieve success as contributing and productive citizens. An organization called Aharai (‘After Me’) – which was originally founded with help from The Jewish Agency - heard about what I was doing. The organization works to develop young leaders, and encourage social involvement among teens and young adults who are at the crossroads of their lives. Their focus is the time before teenagers complete high school and enlisted IDF. They recruited me to lead a track for Druze teens to help them develop leadership skills, and implement educational and social programs in the Druze community. We expanded these activities a few years ago with the help of Ofakim Leatid. At one point, a few years ago, we expanded this activity, with the help of a non-profit organization called Ofakim l’Atid, (‘Future Horizons’) that works to make progress for the Druze community in Israel. Three years ago, after I saw the progress I was making, I decided to found the pre-military academy for members of both the Jewish and Druze communities in Israel. The organization is named in memory of Lieutenant Colonel Hussein Amar, the first Druze battalion commander in the Golani Brigade. The academy connects

the connection between the Druze community and Israeli society as a whole. young Druze with Israeli society, and is located in the village of Julis in the western Galilee region. Working with in cooperation with The Jewish Agency for Israel and several other organizations, the Academy is led by a cadre of educators and commanders of Jewish and Druze backgrounds. Our first cohort has 15 Druze and 15 Jews who are working together towards their induction into the IDF. Making this possible took a lot of late nights and weekends, with the help of so many people including senior officers who volunteered to promote this important project. Preparatory is sponsored by two elite units in the IDF – the Sayeret Matkal commando unit and the Egoz unit, along with other organizations that help young people learn about Israeli society. At the same time, we are working to open a Druze Heritage Centre to help Israeli society to recognize the Druze community

Dry Bones Cartoons by Yaakov Kirschen

in Israel, and will also help the young Druze high school graduates, to recognize the Israeli Druze heritage, and to strengthen their Israeli Druze identity. I can’t understate the importance of this pre-military academy, and its partnership with The Jewish Agency. I know this will advance

Ibrahim Safi, a native of Maghar, a village in Northern Israel, founded a pre-military academy for both Jews and Druze, which began operating in the Druze village of Julis in the Western Galilee in August 2016. It will be the first premilitary academy to integrate both Jewish and Druze participants.

Advertising Representatives Barbara Nykerk • 904.733.4179 • 904.923-3205 Eta Perras • 904.629.0466 Editor & Communications Director Matt Franzblau • mattf@jewishjacksonville.org Communications Committee Jon Israel, Chair Shirley Bielski Helen Hill Michele Katz Joan Levin Andrea Mail Rachel Morgenthal Andrew Ocean Marsha Pollock Federation President Sandy Zimmerman Federation Executive Director Alan Margolies 8505 San Jose Blvd. • Jacksonville, FL 32217 The Jacksonville Jewish News is published monthly. All submitted content becomes the property of the Jacksonville Jewish News. Announcements and opinions contained in these pages are published as a service to the community and do not necessarily represent the views of the Jacksonville Jewish News or its publisher, the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. The Jacksonville Jewish News is not responsible for the Kashruth of any product advertised. Copy due dates: All news, photographs, etc., must be received by the 6th of each month, and sent to jjn@jewishjacksonville.org. Ad deadlines: All ads must be received by the 15th of each month and sent to jjn@jewishjacksonville.org in .pdf format. Editorial support: Donna O’Steen, Erin Cohen, Ariel Frechtman, Val Battini, Emma Pulley, Alan Margolies, Andrew Ocean

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community news

River Garden receives another deﬁciency free inspection from AHCA

BY SKIP WILLBACH

Dir. of Communications & Marketing

In early December, the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) completed a four-day, unannounced state/federal licensure and certification inspection of River Garden Hebrew Home. Government regulations require that all nursing homes undergo a comprehensive annual inspection to assure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws, rules and regulations. These inspections are always unannounced and typically occur between 9-15

months from the date of the prior inspection. During the exit conference the survey team informed River Garden Administration, staff and the Resident Council President that they had identified no survey deficiencies. In commenting on the results, River Garden CEO Martin Goetz said, “It is through the collective effort of residents, staff, boards, volunteers and community, all of whom embrace River Garden and affirm its mission, vision and values, that such an unprecedented achievement can be accomplished.” The River Garden campus includes River Garden Hebrew

Home, a 180-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility; The Coves at River Garden, an 80-unit independent living community; River Garden Home Health Care, a Florida licensed and Medicare certified home health agency; River Garden Rehab, providing short-stay rehabilitation and outpatient physical, occupational and speech therapies; River Garden Adult Day Care; The Albert Z. Fleet Geriatric Training Center, a Florida licensed not-for-profit post-secondary school providing continuing education, training and professional advancement for staff; and River Garden Foundation, providing financial support to the River Garden system of senior services.

Emergency Florida First Coast Relief Fund awards $390,000 to help those aﬀected by Oct.’s Hurricane Matthew

By United Way of Northeast Florida

Florida’s First Coast Relief Fund has awarded more than $390,716 as of mid-December to help community organizations assist victims of Hurricane Matthew in Northeast Florida. The awards have been used to provide shelter and food for more than 6,000 families, to provide debris removal for elderly residents, to help victims meet basic rent and utility expenses, and to provide case management and connect victims with other sources of support. Florida’s First Coast Relief Fund was established in early October after Hurricane Matthew grazed the coast of Northeast Florida leaving extensive property damage in its wake. United Way of Northeast Florida, United Way of St. Johns County, The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, and the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville joined together to create the fund, which was seeded with an initial gift of $250,000 from the Jessie

Ball duPont Fund. Additional gifts from individuals, corporations and funders have brought total contributions to $545,208, compiled a month and a half ago. “Every dollar that has been donated to this fund is having a real and significant difference here in the First Coast Community,” said Melissa Nelson, president and CEO of United Way of St. Johns County. “Efforts to rebuild, not just homes but lives, continue daily, even though the storm seems long past. We cannot thank the donors enough for their generosity.” Distributions from the Relief Fund are overseen by a committee comprised of representatives of the City of Jacksonville, United Way of Northeast Florida, United Way of St. Johns County, The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, the Jessie Ball duPont Fund and the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. The fund makes grants only to organizations helping individuals impacted by Hurricane Matthew in Baker,

Clay, Duval, Nassau, Putnam and St. Johns counties, providing resources to meet needs not met by government programs. Organizations receiving funding to date are American Red Cross, Northeast Florida Chapter, Barnabas, Nassau County, Beaches Emergency Assistance Ministry, Catholic Charities, St. Augustine office, City Rescue Mission, ElderSource in partnership with Councils on Aging in Nassau, St. Johns, Duval and Clay counties, Emergency Services and Homeless Coalition of St. Johns County, Feeding Northeast Florida, First Congregation Sons of Israel, Salvation Army, Northeast Florida Area Command, St. Francis House, St. Johns Housing Partnership. Contributions are still being accepted. 100-percent of all gifts will go to the relief effort. Any unspent funds will be used to seed a permanent disaster relief fund for Northeast Florida. To contribute, visit bit.ly/flfirstcoastrelief.

JJN Advertising Directory At the Jacksonville Jewish News, our advertisers are precious to us. It is with their support that the Jacksonville Jewish community has a newspaper. Advertising revenue also offsets the cost of production, so Federation dollars can be dedicated to helping Jews locally and overseas. Please continue to live generously and support our advertisers: • All Pro Painting and • Memorial Emergency Restoration (p. 28) ( p. 36) • B&C Financial (p. 21) • Metro Diner ( p. 18) • Beachview Rentals (p. 33) • Margo’s Catering (p. 15) • Bob Ham Eyewear (p. 15) • Martin J. Gottlieb Day • Brandon Pest (p. 33) School (p. 37) • Chabad Southside (p. 10) • MOSH (p. 20) • Cocktails & Clergy (p. 2) • Native Sun (p. 27) • DuBow Preschool (p. 37) • Wajsman Home Team • Erica Jolles Realty (p. 34) Realty (p. 8) • Federation (p. 13) • Pediatric Dentistry (p. 28) • FIU - Jewish Museum of • River Garden (p. 39) Florida (p. 9) • rGEN Jax (p. 20 ) • Galinsky Academy (p. 19) • San Jose Beauclerc Animal • Impressions (p. 28) Hospital (p. 7) • Innovative Financial • Shalom Jax (p. 25) Solutions (p. 7) • Stein Mart (p. 14) • JFCS (p. 12) • Super Sunday (p. 2) • Jewish Agency (p. 26) • The Tax Man (p. 28) • JJN (p. 35) • Vito’s Restaurant (p. 6) • Larry Tallis )p. 27) • Whole Foods (p. 40) For your advertising needs, please contact advertising sales representative Barbara Nykerk at 904-733-4179 or Eta Perras at 904-629-0466.

February 2017 - Sh’vat/Adar 5777

Anne Frank News ............ p. 20 Adult Education............... p. 38 Business Directory.......... p. 28 Chabad News ...................p. 21 Community News........... p. 4-9 Education ..... p. 10-11, 33-34 Federation News ........p. 22-26 Foundation ..................... p. 31 JCA ................................. p. 29

JFCS ................................ p. 30 Lifecycles ......................... p. 28 Opinion & Cartoons ...........p. 3 Puzzles & Games ........... p. 35 River Garden ................... p. 32 Sports ...............................p. 27 Synagogue News .... 14-18, 39 Top Stories..........................p. 1

Etz Chaim Synagogue, JCA to Co-sponsor special family Hamentashen bake, Feb. 26 BY DAVE FLAGLER

Jewish Community Alliance

In preparation for the upcoming holiday of Purim, join the JCA and Etz Chaim Synagogue for an annual Family Hamentashen Bake, Sunday Feb. 26 from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. In addition to baking the three cornered festival treats, there will be games and crafts for children and a special learning session about the Purim story for adults. This event is free and open to the community but registration is required by Feb. 23rd. Originally, the hamentashen bake was orchestrated by the Etz Chaim WIFI group, but as the success of this event continued to grow, capacity and reach became more limited. As planning for the program year ensued, the JCA’s new department of Family and Jewish Outreach became a natural partner in helping to orchestrate this event on a bigger scale. Together, Dave Flagler and Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum hope The Zora String Quartet will play at the JCA, Sunday Feb. 12th at 3 p.m. to bring the mitzvah and joy of Purim to even more members of the generosity of the Berman Fam- our community. “I am excited for the opportuily, the JCA Young Concert Artists nity to work with Etz Chaim and Series is free to the community. bring the community together For information, contact Thelma to experientially usher in Purim, Nied at thelma.nied@jcajax.org.

JCA’s Young Concert Artists Series to welcome the Zorá Quartet BY IMAN BYFIELD

Jewish Community Alliance

On Sunday, Feb. 12 at 3 p.m., the Jewish Community Alliance continues this season’s Young Concert Artist Series with a recital by the Zorá String Quartet at the JCA. The Zorá, which means ‘sunrise’ in Bulgarian, consists of violinists Dechopol Kowintaweewat and Seula Lee, violist Pablo Muñoz Salido and cellist Zizai Ning. They have earned prestigious Chamber Music Performer’s diplomas from the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University and are also Quartet in Residence at the Curtis Institute of Music for the 2016 – 17 season. The Zorá are winners of the 2015 Young Concert Artists International Auditions. Young Concert Artists is a

non-profit organization that discovers and promotes the careers of exceptional, emerging young concert musicians. The Jewish Community Alliance is happy to receive these brilliant newcomers as they launch their careers. The Zorá’s performance joins the ranks of other brilliant, rising musicians who have visited Jacksonville to share their talent with JCA members and the community, including pianist Yun-Chin Zhou, the Paris-based Hermes Quartet and cellist Sang-Eun Lee. Thanks to

Kids and adults will get the chance to create these tasty treats together

and moreover, I love working with Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum,” Flagler said. “He is a wonderful man and educator and excellent resource for this community.” The event will take place at the Jewish Community Alliance. For more information, contact Dave Flagler at 904-730-2100 ext. 271 or Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum at Etz Chaim at 904-262-3565 ext. 5. To register, please contact the JCA at 904-730-2100 ext. 228 or Etz Chaim at 904-262-3565 ext. 7.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

community news

Gail Greenﬁeld Inspired and Active Congregant

Feb.

2017

At Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue, the name Gail Greenﬁeld comes up time and time again. She is involved in a variety of programs and activities and organizations both in the synagogue community and the Jacksonville area community. She and her husband, Stanley, have spent time volunteering for humanitarian efforts all around the world, including on Israeli army bases through the Volunteer for Israel program. She has also helped facilitate the monthly mixers. These wine and cheese socials with ﬁlm viewing mixers are always well attended by both Beth El members and community members. This year alone, she has started two new programs, including New Member Shabbat Dinners and a monthly

m ot m

Religious School Coffee Talk series. Every Wednesday morning, Gail and several other Beth El members come together for Yoga Shalom. Yoga Shalom and Meditation, which immediately follows yoga and is led by her, has become a regular part of life at the synagogue. The new Religious School Coffee Talk series, which meets about once a month on Sunday mornings, has been very well attended and covered topics from ﬁnding the balance between all of a child’s activities to dealing with Christmas envy during Hanukkah. The New Member Shabbat Dinners have brought together new member families to welcome them to the Beth El family.

If you would like to nominate someone special for Mensch of the Month, who volunteers both their time and efforts to the Jacksonville Jewish community, simply submit their name, photo and a short write-up about them to jjn@jewishjacksonville. org.

The Shlicha Corner: Remembering the ‘planters’ of Israel on Tu B’Shevat

BY DANA MARMARI

Local Teenagers travel to the nation’s capital for the annual AIPAC summit

Community Shlicha jaxshlicha@jewishjacksonville.org

“Thus walk the planters, song in the heart, spade in hand… on Tu B’Shevat”. As we reach the month of February, we celebrate the trees’ New Year. In Israel, it is a tradition to plant trees throughout the state in order to celebrate the revival of nature. This small act shows a strong bond between the people and the land of Israel that is felt not only during Tu B’Shevat, but throughout the years. Every tree, street, and house that we walk by in Israel unfolds a story of ‘Planters’ who believed in their responsibility to revive the country. These people aren’t anonymous John Does as they are people just like my grandparents, who immigrated to Israel and worked hard to build the state that will become the home for all Jews. This Tu B’Shevat, I would like to share their stories with you. My grandfather, Elyakim, was born and raised in Hungary. During World War II, while in Rabbinical School, he was taken by the Nazis to a labor camp. He managed to escape, return to Budapest and reconvene with the Zionist Youth Movement through which he came to Israel. He joined the Jewish Brigade and flew back to Europe to fight. After the war ended, my grandfather came back to Israel and was one of the founders of Kibbutz Nitzanim. He later on became a teacher and a principal, educating the younger Israeli generation. My grandmother, Yona, was born and raised in Israel. When Israel was founded, she joined the police in order to help the new state. Growing up, my grandmother worked as a teacher in the Youth Immigration program and later moved to Be’er Sheva to help establish the education system in the southern part of Israel.

My grandfather, Tzvi, immigrated to Israel from Poland when he was five-years old. His family was one of the first families to live in Kfar Saba, my hometown. When he was only 15, my grandfather joined the Haganah, a Jewish underground organization, to help defend and build the Jewish state in Israel. Later on, after moving to Eilat, he became a city council member and took part in the ongoing process of developing Israel’s most southern city. My grandmother, Miriam, immigrated to Israel with three of her siblings, leaving the rest of her family behind in Syria. She was part of a youth group that lived in Shfeya and later on in Kibbutz Afikim. She joined the Palmach, the elite fighting force of the Haganah, and took part in the Independence War, smuggling weapons and supporting the fighting soldiers. Ever since, she has volunteered in many organizations for those in need. Four people, four amazing stories, one state. When I think about Tu B’Shevat and our bond as Jews with the land of Israel, I think about the amazing people who chose to take responsibility in their own unique way and built a home for all of us. They are, from my point of view, ‘the Planters’ of Israel and they teach us a valuable lesson, that we have the ability to plant the seeds for our future.

Max Mizrahi and Sabrina Mail pose together at this fall’s AIPAC summit

BY SABRINA MAIL

AIPAC Summit Participant

Local teenager Sabrina Mail was one of 400 Jewish teenagers in the nation selected to be a part of AIPAC’s Schusterman Advocacy Institute High School Summit in Washington, late last fall. While there, Mail met up with fellow Jacksonville representative Max Mizrahi as well as other Jewish teens from across

the U.S. The goal of the three-day seminar was to prepare students to face anti-Semitism when they go to college and to understand the importance of advocacy. The topics of the events minisessions ranged from college students sharing experiences with BDS to government experts providing the truth about Israel’s relationships with specific Middle Eastern countries. The depth of information went far beyond

Mail with a friend near the Capitol

what is heard in the media as participants also had the opportunity to hear the acclaimed British Rabbi Jonathan Sacks speak and lobby on Capitol Hill. Both Mail and Mizrahi spoke to the more than 200 guests in attendance at the event and were incredibly grateful to AIPAC for the experience. The pair said that they intend to remain involved and informed advocates for Israel in the years to come.

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Community news JCA Israel Trip Continued from pg. 1

Group members help students in Hadera with their science project

referring to was Sandy Oasis, who currently runs adult programming at the JCA and has been there for about 16-years. Like her colleague, Oasis was making her very first trip to Israel and truly felt like it was the trip of a lifetime. “I have always been very proud to be a Jew and have always wanted to learn more, so through this experience I have,” she described of her trip. “I thought I knew a lot about Israel but when I got there I found that it was a whole new world and

Trip leader/educator Julian Resnick gives a talk to the group at Masada

Helping to prepare dinner at the home of a woman in an Arab village

learned so much more.” Oasis also found herself doing things and planning activities she previously hadn’t once she returned to the states. “I’ve noticed that I’m now reading about Israel in the newspapers which I had never done before,” she said. “And as far as work goes, I am planning to have an Israeli chocolate tasting for the adults and we’re going to be making body scrubs with Dead Sea salts.” Cumm has also seen how her recent trip is affecting her daily life in and out of the classroom. “I feel like now that I have seen some of the sights that we talk about and teach, now I can really relate to it,” she explained. “As an example, yesterday Karen (Morse,

The 14 seminar participants also experienced the best of culinary creations the country had to offer, dining in a Muslim women’s home at an Arab neighborhood in the North, enjoying a Shabbat meal from a professional chef in Jerusalem and tasting wine at a vineyard near the Golan Heights. “It was just like a revelation to me because the amount years I’ve worked here (at the JCA), you often talk about this stuff and see the pictures, but nothing compares to when you go and see it firsthand,” Cumm explained. “Just talking about it gets me excited again, as a matter of fact, I want to go back.” That’s exactly what trip leaders Myron Flagler (Executive Direc-

who also accompanied her on the trip), was reading a book to my kids when all of a sudden there was a picture of Masada and I knew exactly what she was talking about.” “We were much more prepared than I think the normal traveler is to understand and experience Israel because I felt the readings truly explained the country from its beginnings,” Wohlhuter said. Aside from some of the traditional sights and spots any travel group to Israel would see, the professionals also made stops at places off the beaten path such as the Hula Valley to see the world’s largest bird migration as well as roaming through ruins in the ancient city of Tzippori.

tor) and Pam Tavill (Director of Administration) hope to accomplish in bringing another cohort of professionals to Israel in the near future.

Jacksonville Hadassah to hold talk on Chabad of the Southside matters of the heart and gender equity celebrates Chanukah with Diamonds and Dreidels in medicine

BY HELEN HILL

Jacksonville Hadassah

The Jacksonville Chapter of Hadassah is partnering with the WRJ Temple Sisterhood to present an extraordinary program, Sunday, Feb. 26th at 2 p.m. The program, ‘Matters of the Heart and Gender Equity in Medicine (GEM)’, will be held at Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple).

Though you may know that heart disease is the no. 1 killer of women, did you know that only one-third of cardiac research subjects are women? And that women and men often present different symptoms for the same diseases? That’s because women and men react differently to certain drugs, medical devices and treatments. Come learn how gender differences play an important role in prevention, diagnosis and treatment of many diseases, and specifically heart disease.

Among the featured speakers will be Nancy Davis, Coordinator of Institutional Advancement at the Galinsky Academy and a survivor of a heart attack which struck when she was just 46 years old, in addition to Sharon Smith, RN, BSN, CDE, Director of Recruiting, Encore Research Group. RSVP to Michelle McCormick at 904-608-9049 or mpomz@ comcast.net. There is no charge for the program and everyone is invited to bring a guest, male or female.

By Chabad of the Southside

Elegant hors d’oeuvres and cocktails greeted the near 100 guests attending the dazzling Global Diamonds showroom for ‘Diamonds and Dreidels’, a sophisticated Chanukah shindig with live music performed by Jacksonville’s own Kyle Cohen to help celebrate the fifth night of the festival of lights. Geared toward young professionals, guests rubbed shoulders with an exclu-

sive crowd as they walked the red carpet and were photographed in front of the Global Diamonds/ Southside Chabad backdrop. A free raffle landed one young lady two tickets to the Jacksonville Symphony and one young man a gold Star of David pendant. Southside Chabad president Dr. Lazar Finker shared some spirited remarks with the gathered wishing one and all a Happy Chanukah. Proceeds from sales at the event benefited Chabad of Southside’s new building.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

community news

Mauri Mizrahi joins River Garden as Asst. Administrator BY SKIP WILLBACH

Dir. of Communications & Marketing

Mauri Mizrahi, a lifelong resident of Jacksonville, joined River Garden Hebrew Home as Assistant Administrator. A physical therapist who is a board certified geriatric clinical specialist, Mizrahi has a long association with River Garden. “Coming back to work at River Garden is like

coming home,” she explained. Mizrahi is eager to begin a new career in administration and is both “honored and humbled by this incredible opportunity.” She and her husband Alan are the proud parents of three sons and in her spare time she loves to run, cook, and spend time with family and friends. River Garden Senior Services is a not-for-profit, mission-driven community agency offering an

array of elder care programs and services on a 40-acre campus in the Mandarin area of Jacksonville. Sponsored by the organized Jewish community, River Gar-

den serves clients from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds while maintaining an environment supportive of Jewish identity and informed by Jewish values.

Mauri Mizrahi

Chabad at the Beaches to JCA’s ‘J Institute’ to welcome author and Times Union writer Mark Woods hold Friday night service and dinner in Atlantic Beach in Feb.

By Jewish Community Alliance

The J Institute brings renowned speakers, writers and talented artists and educators from around the world to the JCA throughout the year. With events like the recent Jacksonville Jewish Film Festival and the Jewish Book Festival, and programs like January’s Art Talk with Jacksonville Symphony Music Director/Conductor, Courtney Lewis and the fabulous artists featured in the Vandroff Art Gallery, there is always something exciting at the JCA for the community to experience. The month of February is no different, as Tuesday, Feb. 7 from 7 – 8:30 p.m., Times-Union writer Mark Woods will visit the JCA to discuss his top-rated book, ‘Lassoing the Sun: A Year in America’s National Parks’.

Inspired by his childhood family camping trips, ‘Lassoing the

Sun’ takes readers on a journey that captures the essence of America’s National Parks with beautiful pictures and touching narratives. Woods, a metro columnist for the Times-Union, is a recipient of the Eugene C. Pulliam Fellowship, an award given annually to one editorial writer or columnist to help broaden journalistic horizons and knowledge of the world. Woods will enlighten attendees with his remarkable book and along with sharing his personal experiences about family, the parks and the legacies we inherit. This program is $5 to attend, however JCA valued members are free. Advance registration is appreciated and space is limited. For more information or to register, visit jcajax. org/ji or call the JCA registrar at 904-730-2100, ext. 228.

Jewish Business Network looks forward to being back in business for the New Year BY ZACHARY COHEN Jewish Business Network

The Jewish Business Network in Jacksonville is back and ready for business as it’s been a few years since Jacksonville’s last JBN meeting, but now seems like the perfect time to revive such a special organization. This group is all about bringing the Jewish community together, developing word-of-mouth based businesses and cultivating professional relationships. Zachary Cohen (Financial Advisor with St. Johns Asset Management), Jeff Cramer (Attorney at Cramer Law Center), Talia Gahanian (Attorney at Emet Law) and Joseph Hamaoui (Real Estate Agent with RE/MAX WaterMarke) met last month to discuss the future of JBN while discussing the general structure and goals of the group, but the focus was on expansion. JBN’s mission is to provide a valuable networking experience

for those Jewish professionals who take time out of their busy schedules to participate in the monthly meetings. It will be less structured than your typical professional networking organization as the group will dedicating it’s time to business networking and sharing news regarding the Jewish business interests in Jacksonville. The group will meet on the second Friday of each month from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Locations will vary each month as each meeting will provide a platform for participants to introduce themselves and their respective businesses in a professional group setting. Sponsors will be allotted between 15-20 minutes to present and share more about

their services. The remainder of the meeting will be dedicated to networking and schmoozing, giving attendees a rare opportunity to familiarize themselves with other Jewish professionals in the community and serve as a vehicle to promote the development of professional relationships. The first meeting will be held, Friday Feb. 10th at 10245 Centurion Parkway N. Suite 103, in Jacksonville. Joseph Hamaoui (Real Estate Agent with RE/ MAX WaterMarke) will sponsor the first official JBN gathering in 2017. Hamaoui has focused his practice on real estate investments and he is eager to share his perspective on the current real estate market and show others how to create passive income streams from real estate investmets. If you would like to attend the next JBN meeting, please RSVP to Zachary Cohen at Zach@stjohnsasset. com.

BY NOCHUM KURINSKY Rabbi, Chabad at the Beaches

Jewish residents of Neptune and Atlantic Beaches will now have the Shabbat service and dinner they have been waiting for. Come for a 25-minute Friday night service, Feb. 24th at 6 p.m., followed by a full Shabbat dinner, which will take place at the Adele Grage Community Center in Atlantic Beach. The dinner will begin at 6:30, replete with Kiddush, a full four course meal, singing and Shabbat fun led by Rabbi Nochum and Leah Kurinsky of Chabad at the Beaches. As with all Chabad events, there is no membership or affiliation necessary to join, however reservations are required and can be made via chabadbeaches.com. For nearly 14-years, Chabad at the Beaches has offered a Shabbat Service and legendary full dinner to residents of the Beaches area. Hundreds of Beaches residents and travelers have participated and enjoyed a spectacular Shabbat experience. These Shabbat meals are legendary because of the singing, jovial atmosphere and spirituality.

“After two joyful and warm Shabbat dinners in Atlantic Beach, we are thrilled to host a third.” said Leah Kurinsky, Co-Director of Chabad at the Beaches, “We are so excited to spend Shabbat with old friends and welcome the opportunity to make new ones”. Rabbi Eli and Esther Wilansky will lead Chabad’s regular Shabbat Service and Dinner, which will be held at the Aaron and Blanche Scharf Chabad at the Beaches’ Center for Jewish life in Ponte Vedra. There is no set cost, however donations are appreciated and can be made via chabadbeaches. com or by mail. Sponsorships are available for $100 and $180 and $360. For information, please call 904-543 9301 or email info@ chabadbeaches.com.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Bringing Radical Jewish culture to Jacksonville through the art of song BY KEITH MARKS Avant Music Series

Avant is a music series and was created with the intent of bringing a new approach to exploring Jewish identity. It’s an out-of-thebox approach to bringing arts and culture to Jacksonville, and it has one goal in mind, to bring together young and old, secular and religious, mainstream and fringe to connect and share in song. It’s with this in mind that on Sunday, April 2 at 4 p.m., the organization will welcome the group Pharaoh’s Daughter to Jacksonville from New York City. “Pharoh’s Daughter has traveled all over the world and it’s surprising how many people rediscover their roots through the music. It might start out with nostalgia for language, like Yiddish, Ladino Hebrew, or words or melody, but then it hits a chord deeper and they have an emotional entry way back to Judaism,” said Basya Schechter, lead singer

she explained. “I love when people share with me how my music helps them connect to themselves and others because more than 30 married couples, I know, have had their first date at a Pharaoh’s Daughter concert” This is the power that the catalog of music known as “Radical Jewish Culture” has had on Lead singer Basya Schechter of the countless numbers of Jews that feel lost in a synagogue, but feel at musical group Pharoh’s Daughter home inside the arts. Music can be a temple for the soul. Schechter, of the band. “People walk into a Shul, especially like the one I serve who will perform in Jacksonville with her band is a cantor ordained as cantor, and so many people say through the Jewish Renewal’s that the first few times they come, they just sit and weep as the music Aleph rabbinical school. Renewal is one of many ways Jews are forggives them space to be with their ing a connection to their Jewish hopes, dreams, sadness, and joy,”

identities outside of a synagogue scene. “Jews have six senses, touch, taste, sight, smell, hearing and memory. While Gentiles experience and process the world through the traditional senses, and use memory only as a secondorder means of interpreting events, for Jews memory is no less primary than the prick of a pin, or its silver glimmer, or the taste of the blood it pulls from the finger.” The above quote is from Jonathan Safran Foer, who accurately describes the relationship Jews have to our musical tradition. It’s hard to pinpoint, as is it the tonality of a relative minor scale? The heaviness mixing with optimism,

or the incredible creativity that comes from thousands of years of shared history? Any people rich in history, especially Jewish history, are vibrant with living history, and that energy has the ability to affect generations. It even has the power to pull Jews wandering from their tradition back into some sort of Jewish identity. Shlomo Carlebach’s music, which has become ubiquitous with modern Jewish music, made rabbis and other traditional members of Jewish synagogues uncomfortable the way he spoke about God and His love while he was alive. Times change, temperaments shift, and if we close ourselves off to new, creative ways of helping younger generations explore this rich history, then we, as a people, are truly in danger. This unique event is made possible by collaboration from the generosity of the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida and the Jacksonville Jewish Center. May we all awaken to our shared memory of communion through song.

Kids learn the value of career choice Nosh and MOSH with the Jax Jewish Singles in Feb. through a new book by Jacksonville entitled ‘I want to be’, is about BY FRANCINE SMITH motivating kids to explore variJewish author ous career choices, while helping Jax Jewish Singles

them answer the age old question, ‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ Author Yvette Pais has written and illustrated a pair of children’s books including ‘Gus the Traveler’ and ‘I want to be’. She is an educator by profession and has also written short stories, poems & educational papers. The book is available for purchase on Amazon and can be found by entering Yvette Pais in the search bar.

BY YVETTE PAIS Children’s Author

Today kids receive a diverse education covering many areas of knowledge. Their time in school involves what they will do for the rest of their lives, therefore it is important for them to understand from an early age that they can choose whatever they want to be. With this in mind, a new book

Join the Jax Jewish Singles for a fabulous Sunday Brunch at River City Brewing Company. The buffet includes assorted breakfast items, an omelet and waffle station, hot entrees, and a carving station, in addition to assorted salads and desserts. The group will then walk across the

street to the Museum of Science & History (MOSH) where they will tour the Anne Frank exhibit. Please call Francine for details at 904-221-8061 or email her at francine.smith@comcast.net.

Chabad at the Beaches to River Garden Auxiliary to hold annual sell Reisman’s world famous special event with French Riviera theme Hamantashen By River Graden Auxiliary

Please mark your calendar for River Garden Auxiliary’s Annual Special Event, Tuesday, April 25th, with doors opening at 10:30 a.m. This year’s luncheon, ‘Fashion Week on the French Riviera’, will feature an array of scrumptious French-inspired delights, and once again, the event will take place at the Jacksonville Marriott (4670 Salisbury Rd.) Co-chairs Marcy Rudowitz and Talie Zaifert are excited about the upcoming event and want you to be ready for

the paparazzi as you walk down the red carpet for fashion week. With a glass of bubbly as you enter, you’ll start your adventure by viewing the great items in the silent auction and then be swept away to enjoy the rest of the treats

and surprises. River Garden serves the community through its many programs and services. Historically, the Special Event has brought in more than $150,000.00 for River Garden since its inception 20 years ago. Judy Price founded this annual event and her vision for this fundraiser was to give the ladies an elegant and meaningful affair that had value by generating funds for River Garden. Be a part of River Garden’s glorious history and mark your calendars because the 2017 Special Event will be second to none.

By Chabad at the Beaches

Chabad at the Beaches this year will sell world famous Reisman’s Hamantashen for only $5.50 a pound which is less than the standard retail value. The Hamantashen are available in five delicious flavors including raspberry, apricot, poppy seed, prune and chocolate. Orders must be submitted before Feb. 20th, which is President’s Day. For those who don’t know, Hamantashen are triangular, filled pastries which are traditionally served on Purim, and Reisman`s are famous. They are the most mouth watering Hamantashen around, as one taste, and you’ll keep coming back for more. Contact Rabbi Eli Wilansky at 904535-9193 or email him at Eli@ ChabadBeaches.com for orders.

For centuries these little tricornered pastry (representing either Haman’s ears or, his hat) has served as the ‘special’ food associated with the Purim holiday. Hamantashen, of course, can go into shalach manos baskets, and remember that the sending of gifts of food to friends on Purim is an important mitzvah that is mentioned in the Megillah itself. The minimum requirement is two food items to one person, so for more information on the holiday and its traditions, go to chabadBeaches.com/Purim.

Share your Story with JFCS to help celebrate a century of service BY KATHY WOHLHUTER

Jewish Family & Community Services

As JFCS celebrates its 100th anniversary, staff is seeking memories and stories about Jewish Family & Community Services from the community. If you or your family has been involved with the organization as volun-

teers or board members, or if you have benefited from JFCS’ many services, than we would love to hear from you. Share your JFCS story today by calling or e-mailing Ryan Allison at 904-394-5782 or at rallison@jfcsjax.org.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

community NEWS

Recent discovery of 16th century manuscript excites members of the St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society BY MERRILL SHAPIRO St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society

The New York Times calls it “perhaps the most significant artifact documenting the arrival of the Jews in the New World.” This discovery is a small tattered 16th century manuscript written in an almost microscopic hand by Luis de Carvajal the Younger, the man whose life and pain it chronicled. To the researchers of the St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society this discovery provides more evidence that the descendants of Jews in general and specifically Antonio Martinez Carvajal, Chief Harbor Pilot 1577-78, were present in St. Augustine, the oldest European City in what would become the United States just a dozen years after its founding. The manuscript shows the

great importance of Yom Kippur, The Day of Atonement to Jews-inhiding from the Spanish Inquisition, and Sept. 8, 1565, the date on which Pedro Menendez de Aviles established St. Augustine was the day after Yom Kippur. The New York Times explains that “Until 1932, the 180-page booklet by de Carvajal, a secret Jew who was burned at the stake by the Inquisition in Spain’s colony of Mexico, resided in that country’s National Archives. Then it vanished as the theft transformed the manuscript into an object of obsession, a kind of Maltese Falcon, for a coterie of Inquisition scholars and rarebook collectors. Almost nothing was heard about the document for more than 80 years, until it showed up 13 months ago at a London auction house. The manuscript was on sale for $1,500, because the house had little sense of its value and last year the relic

caught the eye of a prominent collector of Judaica, Leonard Milberg, when it showed up for resale at the Swann Galleries in Manhattan. The Times explains, “De Carvajal was a Jew who posed as Catholic in New Spain, now Mexico, during a period when the Inquisition ruthlessly persecuted heretics and false converts with deportation, imprisonment, torture and grisly public executions. De Carvajal, a trader, was arrested around 1590 as a proselytizing Jew and, while in prison, began writing a sometimes messianic memoir, the “Memorias,” on pages roughly four inches by three inches. In it, he called himself Joseph Lumbroso, Joseph the Enlightened. It begins: “Saved from terrible dangers by the Lord, I, Joseph Lumbroso of the Hebrew nation and of the pilgrims to the West Indies in appreciation of the

The manuscript, which disappeared from Mexico’s National Archives in the 1930s, will be returning to Mexico after its exhibition in N.Y.

mercies received from the hands of the Highest, address myself to all, who believe in the Holy of Holies and who hope for great mercies.” The memoir tells how he learned from his father that he was Jewish, circumcised himself with an old pair of scissors,

secretly embraced the faith and persuaded siblings to embrace it. Some of the researchers of the St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society are excitedly making plans to see the manuscript in person at the New York Historical Society Museum on Central Park West in New York City.

Lights, latkes and messages of hope at annual S. Johns Chabad Chanukah celebration By Chabad of S. Johns

Hundreds gathered for a spectacular Chanukah light show and the lighting of an impressive Menorah at Nocatee Splash Park for the fourth night of the Festival of Lights. A giant, show stopping, glow-in-the-dark Menorah was lit to celebrate the miracle of light and religious freedom, while an estimated 350 men, women and children couldn’t get enough of the traditional Chanukah treats we all love, latkes, donuts and chocolate coins, also known as gelt. Dreidel crafts for the children, an adorable Chanukah videoskit put on by those who attend

GROW (an after school Jewish enrichment program); and a Chanukah Light Show are what made the evening a truly unforgettable family extravaganza. Rabbi Mendel Sharfstein of Chabad of St. Johns spoke about the little jug of oil that kept burning for eight days when it only should have burned for one day. Like the main miracle of Chanukah, our faith and commitment should be as inextinguishable as that little flame. “We want to make sure that the true message of Chanukah makes a lasting impression on everyone who celebrates the Jewish Festival of Lights, and that message is that light always overpow-

ers and vanquishes darkness, good triumphs over evil, freedom over oppression, an eternal message of hope for all people,” explained Rabbi Mendel. Organized annually by Chabad of S. Johns, and Nocatee, the Menorah lighting celebrates the Jewish Festival of Lights. “The true message of Chanukah is that when we light the candle of our soul, we bring the light of goodness and G-dliness into the world,” the Rabbi added. “It doesn’t take a lot of light, just a little bit of light can dispel a tremendous amount of darkness, and this is an eternal message of hope for all people.” Chabad of S.Johns hosts events and programming for all ages. For more information, visit jewishsjohnscounty.com or call 904-701-4422.

The Temple’s 20s & 30s group grows by leaps and bounds this past year

T3’s Havdalah at the Ranch event in Oct.

BY SARAH FRADEN T3 President

The Temple 20s & 30s is the young professional group of Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) and during the past three years, the group has grown from only a few members to more than 50 active members. Some of the highlights from 2016 included ‘Havdalah on the Ranch’, ‘Meals on Wheels’, and ‘Sukkot Under the Stars’, as well as the annual T3 Chanukah party. At Havdalah on the Ranch in October, T3’ers groomed and rode horses at a local horse sanctuary and ended the evening with Havdalah and s’mores around the campfire. During the Meals on Wheels event in December, T3 had three cars of volunteers help to deliver meals, and Sukkot Under the Stars featured a homemade dinner in the Sukkah and schmoozing with friends. The yearly Chanukah party, also held in December, featured a latke bar with many types and an assortment

of toppings. Also at the Chanukah party, toys were collected for Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS) to be distributed to those less fortunate in the community for the holiday season. Those looking to get more involved in 2017 should join the Temple 20s & 30s group for ‘First Friday’, held each month where a pre-neg (oneg before services) is held in advance of Shabbat worship. Then the group heads out for a late dinner in town together following services. Other events to look forward to this upcoming year are the group’s annual ‘New Member & Anniversary Celebration’ in August, ‘Torah on Tap’ (approximately every other month), and fun outings at places such as Hard Knocks and Top Golf and taking part in a challah bake. Those who want more information on T3 or how to become involved can check out the group’s official Facebook page or send an email to thetemple20sand30s@gmail.com.

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education

Torah Academy of Jacksonville students awarded with bowling and a mini golf outing for their positive behavior By Torah Academy of Jacksonville

Late last year, students at the Torah Academy of Jacksonville met up for their second PBIS term of the year, to reward their positive behavior efforts. The Kindergarten through fourth grade walked over to Bowl America and enjoyed two games of bowling, while the middle schoolers went to World Golf Vil-

lage. While there, they watched a film on the secrets of the ocean in 3D in the IMAX Theater, completed a scavenger hunt in the Golf Museum, played 18 holes of putt putt on the greens and participated in the golf challenge. During the next PBIS term, the students will be required to refine their behavior and strive for a higher level of achievement in order to participate. Also added

to the program are PBIS tickets, which will be handed out to the students throughout the day. They can be awarded during recess, specials, lunch, in the hallways, and in the classrooms. The tickets are placed in a box for either K-4 or 5-8 and at the end of the term, two tickets will be drawn from each box, and a prize awarded.

Ganeinu Preschool students busy Time to break out the celebrating Chanukah in a variety PJ’s for Michele Block Gan Yeladim’s Havdallah of ways BY NATHAN WOODS Michele Block Gan Yeladim

By Southside Chabad

Just before the beginning of Chanukah, Ganeinu preschool students journeyed all the way to Brookdale Senior Living off of Southside Blvd., to share the warmth and joy of the holiday with more than 100 residents and guests. After students distributed steaming latkes to the participants, they sang traditional holiday songs while dressed in their Chanukah regalia. “It is beautiful to behold the enthusiasm the children take in sharing the holidays with our senior friends,” said Ganeinu Director Chana Novack. “The joy they bring to the residents is just priceless.” In addition to their field trip to the senior living facility, Ganeinu

Ganeinu students assemble to form a human menorah for Chanukah

students treated their parents with the school’s annual Preschool Chanukah Party. Varying artistic methods were employed to create holiday masterpieces including dreidels made of clay, water-color dreidel painting, dreidel spin art, menorah relief painting and more. Each method focused on

a particular skill set critical to early childhood development including gross motor skills, fine motor skills and control, hand-eye coordination and counting-early math skills. In addition to the art exhibit, parents enjoyed live music with music teacher Devorah and the Ganeinu choir.

Look for three stars in the night sky, then put on your pajamas and come to the JCA, Saturday, Feb. 4th from 6 – 7 p.m. That’s because the Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten invites children and their families to participate in a special Pajama Havdallah event. Come dressed for bedtime in slippers and pajamas and experience a Havdallah ceremony, yummy dessert and a bedtime story. It is a great way to end Shabbat and begin the week on a sweet note with friends and other families. ‘Havdallah’ means separation or distinction, and features a brief ceremony at which time we take leave of Shabbat. We hope that the sweetness and holiness of the day will remain with us during the week, and as part of this multi-sensory ritual, we sip wine (or grape juice), smell

a spice box and see the ﬂame of a beautiful braided Havdallah candle. To register for Pajama Havdallah, visit jcajax.org/programs and search ‘havdallah’. Reservations for the event are required by Feb. 3rd. For more information, please contact 904-730-2100, ext. 259 or ext. 271.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

education

DuBow Preschool’s Treehouse continues to grow branches and in popularity By DuBow Preschool

The DuBow Preschool Treehouse has been a hit in its second year of providing engaging and unique parent and me classes housed within the warm and welcoming environment of the Preschool. The two most popular classes in the Treehouse are ‘Color Splash’ and ‘Family Music and Movement’, with offerings of two to three classes each week. Color Splash, taught by Natalie

An array of sensory experiences await kids at the DuBow Treehouse

Dayan, Speech and Language Pathologist, strengthens all areas of development through activities that target social, sensory, motor, cognitive, and language skills. Children ages 10 months to three and a half years focus on a new color, letter, and concept each week through exposure to a variety of sensory materials, so please attend the next session, which begins in mid-February. Family Music & Movement has seen so many new friends so far this year as families love gathering for circle time each week, connecting with little ones, and getting the opportunity to play a new instrument with each

song during class. This music class is ideal for ages two months to two-years old. Taught by Emily Carpenter, who holds her BFA in Musical Theatre from Penn State University, music is incorporated with animals, body parts, counting, ABCs, and most importantly, bonding time. Classes run once a week in three-to-five week sessions. The next session begins in early March, so for more information on this program or the about the DuBow Preschool Treehouse as a whole, please visit treehouse.dubowpreschool.org or send an email to treehouse@ dubowpreschool.org.

Tu B’shevat celebration and Seder Martin J. Gottlieb Day to be held at Michele Block Gan School’s partnership with Federation brings in guest Yeladim BY NATHAN WOODS Michele Block Gan Yeladim

The unparalleled curriculum of Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten frequently includes activities planned with the intent of helping students understand the beauty and importance of nature. Therefore, it is only natural that the school will have a special celebration for Tu B’Shevat. Tu B’Shevat is often referred to as Jewish Arbor Day, as it is Students at Michele Block Gan Yeladim will celebrate Tu B’Shevat in style observed in Israel as a day to celebrate trees and to practice eco- Morah Karen Morse will lead a six and will take place on Friday, logical awareness. Many Israelis fun-filled celebration for the birth- Feb. 10 from 1:30 - 2:15 p.m. To commemorate the day by helping day of the trees and students will register, visit jcajax.org/programs to plant new trees, thus continufollow the change of the seasons and search ‘Tu B’Shevat’. For more ing the life cycle of nature. To and taste the four categories of information, please contact Rohonor this important day, Michele fruits. chelle Golomb at 904-730-2100, Block Gan Yeladim will hold a The celebration is open to chil- ext. 259. Tu B’Shevat Celebration Seder. dren between the ages of three and

Judah the Maccabee spotted at recent Lowe’s during pre-Chanukah workshop

Community Shlicha Dana Marmari talks to students at the Day School By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School

Fourth and ﬁfth grade students at Martin J. Gottlieb Day School have begun an exciting journey to Israel thanks to the Federation’s and the JCA’s community Schlicha, Dana Marmari. Marmari is serving the Jacksonville community as an Israeli emissary, and is adding a new dimension to student learning by bringing the daily life of Israeli children into classes right here in Jacksonville, as the students study the homeland of the Jewish people. During her ﬁrst visit, students discussed both the differences and similarities of children between the ages of 8-11 in Israel and the United States. Students brainstormed associations that came to mind

when they heard the word ‘Israel’. Comparing those words and ideas with what Israeli students think of when they hear the same words was surprising. Marmari also described a day in the life of an Israeli girl, which allowed students to relate to Israeli children of the same age. Finally, the students listened to an Israeli radio station and realized that Israeli and American kids listen to much of the same music. “We’re so thankful to Dana and Federation for helping life in Israel really come alive for our students,” said Judaics teacher Liat Walker. For more information on Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, a Solomon Schechter K through 8, please call Nancy Davis at 904-268-4200, ext. 147.

GROW’S magic of Israel exceeds its expectations By Chabad of S. Johns

Kids were busy creating dreidels By Chabad of S. Johns

A phenomenal pre-Chanukah workshop for children took place in December at Lowe’s. Wearing mini aprons and goggles, 200 kids each crafted their own remarkable Dreidel rockets with all of the supplies available from the hardware store. The crowd was greeted with light refreshments in the form of fried foods, in keeping with the tradition to eat foods that remind us of the miracle of the oil, and of course, Judah Maccabee made his annual appearance to give us a taste of victory and the joy and warmth of the holiday. “My kids loved seeing the rabbi in his Judah Maccabee costume, as it was a fun and edu-

Judah the Macabee poses for a photo at Chabad’s Chanukah workshop

cational event,” said one parent. “My kids had a blast and they actually learned about the story of Chanukah,” said another. The kids also ran right over to the huge dreidel filled with lots of colorful little ones to try to guess how many were in there. Congrats to Mathew G. on picking the closest the number and winning the Art Menorah. “On Chanukah we rejoice in the triumph of freedom over tyranny, good over evil, right over might,” said Rabbi Mendel Sharfstein, Director at Chabad of S. Johns. “During the time of the Chanukah story we had to hide during Torah study and practicing our religion, and today as we celebrate religious freedom, we rededicate ourselves to Torah study and making this world a better and brighter place.”

Over the years, the delightful game of dreidel became a popular household activity while the family gathered around to watch the flames of the menorah burn, but the dreidel has an ancient history. Way back during the Greek-Syrian rule over the Land of Israel, learning Torah was outlawed and it became a crime punishable by death. The Jewish children resorted to hiding in caves in order to study. If a Greek patrol would approach the cave, the children would quickly hide their scrolls and pull out their dreidels, pretending to be playing an innocent game. That is how the study of Torah and Mitzvot was kept alive during those dark times. For more holiday programming near you, visit jewishsjohnscounty. com or call 904-701-4422.

As promised, the kids at GROW’s Magic of Israel course made some crazy, yet awesome discoveries in December, as after each child constructed Abraham’s tent, using beams and draping material, they set out for Jericho. They even designed the Wall of Jericho and then, to keep it authentic, had to knock it down. That’s right, Airzooka machine to the rescue, as it helped them understand what it might take to knock down a wall through scientiﬁc means. Next the kids each engineered their own mini-Holy Temples, and to light them up, they experimented with circuits and battery powered electric currents. The session wouldn’t be complete without each of the children constructing a mini-Kotel (Western Wall), with some pretty spectacular archways, whose building methods they got to explore. Because it is an incredibly holy place to pray, the children wrote personal notes, containing their hopes and prayers that will be brought to the Kotel in Jerusalem. They also learned that giving charity and saying words of Torah are some of the ways we can help our brothers and sisters in Israel. But that’s not all, as Israel is quite hot

and the country receives very little rain, so engineers in Israel came up with the world famous drip irrigation system, an invention that uses less than half the water of traditional sprinklers. The kids had a blast getting their hands dirty and planting their own vegetables as they each put together their own drip irrigation system. It was fascinating to watch the water spread to each cup on its own. To sign up for GROW’S upcoming sessions, visit jewishsjohnscounty. com/GROW or call 904-701-4422.

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synagogue NEWS

Jacksonville Jewish community’s ﬁfth annual mitzvah day becomes its largest food delivery event By Jacksonville Jewish Center

Five years ago, a representative from the Jacksonville Jewish Center contacted members at Congregation Ahavath Chesed about volunteers from our Jewish community preparing and delivering Meals On Wheels, Dec. 25, allowing those who regularly make deliveries to enjoy their holiday with family and friends. For several years prior, these meals had been prepared at River Garden and the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville was able to get volunteers to deliver them. The Jacksonville Jewish community’s fifth mitzvah day fed nearly 1,000 people this year, not including cookies for First Responders. There were 400 Meals on Wheels, 500 at Sulzbacher Center and a combination of around 90 at the three other locations. A delicious latke dinner was prepared at Gabriel House and more traditional holiday dinners

Volunteers of all ages came together Dec. 25th to give their time and effort preparing meals for the community

were prepared at the other locations. This event has grown vastly in its half decade of existence as the first year that the two congregations partnered to prepare and deliver the Meals on Wheels, the effort was a great success. There were many who wanted to help, but there were not enough jobs to warrant all of their help. The second year, the group added

donated cookies that would be delivered to First Responders. This too was an amazing success as dozens of cookies were baked, packaged and delivered to all of our area fire stations and police sub stations. Still there were more volunteers who had no place to help. The third year cooking and serving dinner at Ronald McDonald House was added to reach

families who found themselves here in Jacksonville with a sick or injured child so they could enjoy a meal prepared for them. Again, there were many who wanted to help and many more who would have, had there been places for them . The fourth year, Gabriel House was added to the list, which is for people who are here for organ

transplants or cancer treatment. This past year Sulzbacher Center for the homeless and the Five Star Veteran’s Center were added. Both the Center and The Temple are grateful for all of the volunteers who helped to make this day possible and are planning to add new locations to make more mitzvot happen next year.

Group of Jacksonville gentlemen take the trip of a lifetime to the jaw drop was the number of cranes I saw, as there is so much land of milk and honey my construction in Israel that at one BY BOBBY HANDMAKER Trip participant

Recently a number of men from the Jacksonville Jewish community made a trip to Israel with Rabbi Yaakov Fisch of Etz Chaim Synagogue. The trip was sponsored by the Men’s Division of the Jewish Woman’s Renaissance Project, or JWRP, which is the brainchild of Lori Palatnik, who launched the first trip about five years ago. Other than a nominal fee and air fare, the trip is free. JWRP began with women and its purpose is to persuade non-observant Jewish mothers to

bring a little ‘Jewish-ness’ into the home. Apparently, the husbands wanted to know what all the commotion was about so Palatnik started up the men’s trip. My expectations of the trip were to connect with my Jewish identity a little, eat some great food and have some laughs with some of my posse. I had been to Israel twice, the obligatory USY Teen tour and I spent a semester abroad at Tel Aviv during college, but that was long ago, so I was looking forward to seeing how the country had changed over the past few decades. One of the first things that really made

point, I counted 18 cranes along the horizon. Then there was the architecture, as there is some of the most mind-blowing, creative, architecture with competing design elements in the same building that somehow works. As we passed each structure, sure enough, there would be some 2,500-year-old building, with a cupola topping a tower or an amazing ogee arch. Next to that there is a building that was built in the 70’s that had been repurposed into a boutique hotel. The State of Israel is replete with these types of architectural contrasts. Having spent a career in the food business, I also paid par-

Handmaker (center) along with his fellow trip participants from Florida

ticular attention to the food and the restaurants. I was struck by the freshness of the produce and the proteins, as there is no such thing as ‘farm to table’ because everything is just that. The flavors of the produce explode in your mouth as the oranges were as big as grapefruits and the grapefruits as big as cantaloupes. If Israel is anything, she is a land of contrasts and diversity. These reoccurring contrasts quickly became thematic for me, as it seemed around every corner there was another contrast that made this trip particularly compelling, thought provoking, and left me with a sense of pride and wonderment each night when my head hit the pillow. For example, during the week, the city is chaos. Traffic whizzing by, horns honking, people shouting, and commerce of every kind, but on Friday at 4:30 p.m., people are running about in a frenetic pace, shopping for Shabbat. You can feel the energy, the anticipation, the excitement, because it’s palpable. Everyone seems to have a spring in their step, wishing each other Shabbat Shalom as they pass in the street, and then, at the anointed minute, everything stops, and a calming hush descends over Jerusalem and the entire city takes a collective sigh of relief as phones get turned off, and the cars magically disappear. There is also the diversity and contrasts of the people of Israel. These people are the most resilient in the world. Every adult you see has either served in the military or is serving. One feels a sense of vigilance, a steadfastness of ‘I got your back’ among the population. A steely eyed toughness that everyone has, yet scratch the surface of the skin,

and it seems like everyone is aching to go out and have a great time. At night the bars, taverns and open air shuks are bursting with people of all ethnicities, colors and backgrounds. The air is full of laughter and peppered with languages from around the world. Statistically, and realistically, everyone in this small but mighty country, has been tragically touched by war, and yet they yell ‘L’Chaim’, clink glasses, and celebrate life. Of course, there is the contrast with the output of the land and the natural resources, as the natural resources number exactly zero unless you count rocks and sand. There is no timber, no water, no oil, no minerals, but enter the Jews and trees now cover close to eight percent of the nation’s land and it has manufactured a surplus of water recovering from the worst drought in close to a millennium. Israel is a land of contrasts because she doesn’t have a choice as she must adapt and evolve or she will perish. She welcomes all, despite color, religion, nationality, height, weight, speech impediment or sexual orientation. Israel just doesn’t care, so bring her your ideas, your vision, your heart, your hunger for a better life and your thirst for peace. Israel welcomes all, provides help to all, shames no one, and does not seek to harm anyone. She is a peaceful warrior, an enigmatic character thrust on the violent stage of global politics, who would just as soon ride off into the sunset of the Negev, but tomorrow she’ll wake up, smile at the sun, wink at G-d, and solve the world’s problems.

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SYNAGOGUE NEWS

Accomplished professor to speak at the Temple about topic of Jews in the Hinterlands By Congregation Ahavath Chesed

In the 19th century, Jews began to leave eastern port cities for small towns in the West and South, where they lived far away from rabbis, synagogues and Jewish institutions. Assistant Professor Shari Rabin, a scholar

Asst. Professor Dr. Shari Rabin

of American Judaism and Associate Director of the Pearlstine/ Lipov Center for Southern Jewish Culture at The College of Charleston is fascinated by the intersection of Judaism and everyday life and will come to Jacksonville to speak about it Tuesday, Feb. 7th, at 7 p.m., inside Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple). Thanks to the generosity of Larry and Kathy Kanter, Dr.Rabin will recount tales of these Jewish lives during a presentation where

the entire community is welcome to come and learn. According to Rabin, “American Jewish life was created on the road and in farflung places in the era of western expansion.” With this in mind, Dr. Rabin’s visit to Jacksonville will give attendees the opportunity to ask if Jacksonville was in fact a ‘hinterland’. Rabin received her BA from Boston University and has a PhD from Yale University. Dr. Rabin is the author of a number of

prominent publications, including ‘Working Jews: Hazanim and the Labor of Religion in 19th Century America’, ‘Religion and American Culture: A Journal of Interpretation’ and ‘A Nest to the Wandering Bird’ Iowa and the Creation of American Judaism, 1855-1877’, to name a few. Her first book, ‘Jews on the Frontier: Religion and Mobility in 19th Century America’, will be coming out later this year from New York University Press.

Jacksonville Jewish Center to hold discussion on Anti-Semitism and the BDS movement By Jacksonville Jewish Center

Join the Jacksonville Jewish Center Israeli Affairs Committee and the Zionist Organization of America for an evening with Susan Tuchman Esq., the director of ZOA’s Center for Law and Justice to discuss the problem of BDS and the reality of Anti-Semitism, Wednesday, Feb. 8, at 7 p.m. at the Jacksonville Jewish Center.

The Zionist Organization of America is the oldest pro-Israel organization in the United States, and is committed to promoting strong U.S.-Israel relations and works to protect Jewish college and high school students from intimidation, harassment and discrimination, and in fighting anti-Semitism in general. Since its founding in 1897, the Zionist Organization of America has been

Guest speaker Susan Tuchman

fighting for the Jewish people and the Land of Israel. Susan Tuchman serves as the director of The ZOA Center for Law and Justice (ZOA-CLJ), established to meet the need for greater organizational involvement in legal matters that affect relations among the United States, Israel and the Jewish people. ZOA-CLJ works to educate the American public and Congress about legal issues in order to advance the interests of Israel and the Jewish people, while assisting American victims of terrorism in vindicating their rights under the law,

and seeking to hold terrorists and sponsors of terrorism accountable for their actions. The organization also fights anti-Semitism and anti-Israel bias in the media and on college campuses, and strives to enforce existing law and also to create new law in order to safeguard the rights of the Jewish people in the United States and Israel. This event is free to attend but reservations are requested, so to register or for more information, contact Sharona Whisler at swhisler@zoa.org.

Etz Chaim Synagogue to host a four-part Chassidic Meditation sequel with Dr. Elliott Rosenbaum By Etz Chaim Synagogue

Back for part two due to popular demand, Dr. Elliott Rosenbaum’s Chassidic Meditation class is one that you surely don’t want to miss. Chassidut (or Chassidus) is the movement within Judaism founded by Rabbi Yisrael Ba’al Shem Tov (1698-1760) that was

designed to awaken the Jewish people to their own inner self through the inner dimension of the Torah. Based on the Kabbalah, Chassidut gives new emphasis to the simple and joyful service of God, prayer, optimism and a love for all people. Chassidic Meditation is an ancient Jewish practice that involves

learning mystical ideas and meditating on them until they become rooted in our subconscious. This class will include guided Chassidic Meditations on topics including, The Purpose of Creation, the Jewish Soul, Prayer and the Oneness of God. All are welcome to attend for this four-part series, on Feb. 6, 13, 20 and 27th.

Beth El – The Beaches’ parent coffee talk on mindful meditation for kids to be held February BY GAIL GREENFIELD

Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue

Beth El’s Parent Coffee Talk programs are designed especially for parents and grandparents. This month’s program will be presented by Sheila Leiberman, who is an artist and educator with more than 20 years of meditation experience. She facilitates a Jewish Meditation and Spirituality group in Nocatee and especially enjoys practicing mindfulness

meditation with her grandchildren. We live in a fast-paced, electronic, goal oriented society where many children experience stress and anxiety. Mindfulness practices and meditation can give them the tools to cope in this stressful society and Leiberman will present mindfulness techniques and discuss how to apply these practices. Previous Parent Coffee Talk programs were co-sponsored by Jewish Family & Community Services, as topics discussed by

one of JFCS’s social workers included ‘Soccer vs. Synagogue’, ‘Christmas Envy at Chanukah’ and ‘How to Raise Self-Reliant Jewish Children’ based on the book by Wendy Mogal, ‘The Blessings of a Skinned Knee’. Bagels and coffee will be served at 9 a.m. prior to the program. For more information, contact Gail Greenfield at 904-534-7381 or email her at gailsgreenfield@ hotmail.com.

Mindful meditation for children will be the next coffee talk topic

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synagogue news

Vignettes from the Temple executive director’s recent Cuban adventure

Street sign denoting local synagogue Old fashioned 1950’s cars line the streets for all to see and photograph

A glimpse inside the sanctuary at Gran Sinagoga Bet Shalom in Havana

BY GOLDIE Y. LANSKY

that she is visited each week by people who say they wish to convert to Judaism and she believes what they really want is access to more food to feed their families. The Sephardic synagogue is primarily a Senior Center, as worship is held each Shabbat morning, yet the synagogue spokesperson told us that they understand that ‘people pray to eat’, and as a result lunch is served each week following services. Each synagogue sent us a list of items they needed for their congregants. Never have I traveled with so few changes of clothing as my one small suitcase was filled with the underwear, socks, over-the-counter medications and diapers that had been requested. The Jewish cemetery, which was created in 1906, is in complete disrepair. Family members of the deceased fled Cuba in the early years of the revolution and the remaining Jewish community does not have the resources to maintain the cemetery. Names on the gravestones are written in Spanish, Yiddish, Ladino and Hebrew, making clear the variety of both Eastern and Western European Jews who

Congregation Ahavath Chesed

As soon as President Obama announced that Americans could visit Cuba, I had an addition to my bucket list, so on Dec. 1, I was able to place a check-mark by that bucket list entry. ‘Why did I want to go?’ someone might ask and my only answer is ‘because I could’. My interest was to visit with the Jewish community of Cuba and I was lucky enough to join a four-day trip sponsored by two synagogues in the Miami area. We arrived in Havana at 8:30 in the morning and were visiting with the Ashkenazic community at Bet Shalom, also known as ‘Patronato before noon’. This is the largest synagogue in Havana and part of the Conservative movement. While I had expected to be meeting with a small group of elderly congregants, that was not our experience. We had planned to visit the congregation when we arrived and return on Friday evening to lead an Erev Shabbat service, but the community did not

need us to have a worship experience. They worship every week and it quickly became clear that we were their guests and warmly welcomed. The Shabbat service was led by four young 20-somethings, who were fluent in liturgical Hebrew. When the younger members of the congregation were invited to join them on the pulpit for the closing hymn, more than a dozen elementary school students came skipping down the aisles to lead the congregation in a raucous rendition of Adon Olam. Music is an important component of Cuban life and we brought an electric keyboard as a gift to the congregation. We had not considered that there is a difference between American and European power sources, but not to worry, as we had batteries. One of the service leaders began to weep, knowing that when these batteries died, she would be unable to replace them. We tried to reassure her that we would send batteries and the appropriate converter when we returned home. That did not stop her weeping as she told us “we will never get your package. It will never get through

customs. The only way for us to replace these batteries is to have another group bring them to us.” Over and over again, throughout the four-day trip, I had these kinds of experiences. So many things we take for granted are just not available and are unattainable. There are no clergy members on the island and no religious school. The students understand that Jews live all over the world through their Maccabiah Games experience. How they are able to leave Cuba and return is just one more curious thing we were told without a clear explanation. Before the Revolution of 1959, the Cuban Jewish community lived throughout the island and numbered about 16,000. Today the community is 1,200, almost all of whom live in Havana. As Fidel Castro assumed control, he did not treat the Jews any differently than he did others. He permitted one kosher butcher to remain in business. The food ration books for Jews include an extra two chickens and two pounds of beef per family each month. Adela Dworin, the 84 year-old leader of the Jewish community, reports

settled in Cuba when the American quota system made it impossible for them to reach our shores. Those early settlers were so certain they would soon be allowed into America that many referred to Cuba as ‘Hotel Cuba’. If Cuba is on your Bucket List, I urge you to travel soon as American companies are clamoring to set up shop on the island. One University of Havana economics professor shared his fear that, within a decade, Cuba would look like an American island. The invasion of all that is America will over-run and ultimately eliminate much of Cuban culture. I will be sharing more of my Cuban adventures at Jewish Java, Wednesday, March 1. The plane leaves at 9 a.m. from River Garden’s Cohen Auditorium, but no passport is needed, so let Shalom Jacksonville division director Isabel Balotin know if you’re attending by calling her at 904-448-5000, ext. 1206 or sending her an e-mail at shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org. An RSVP for this trip is appreciated no later than Feb. 27th.

Temple Bet Yam creating delicious Etz Chaim’s Yom Limmud menu for annual ‘Deli Nite’ event event to address topic of a good God looking over BY JACQUELINE WITTE a bad world Temple Bet Yam

Temple Bet Yam’s eagerly anticipated Deli Nite will be here before you know it as the annual event is set to take place Thursday, Feb. 16 at 6 p.m. On the menu is a choice of corned beef, pastrami, or turkey sandwiches along with typical deli sides, a dessert, and a beverage. Magician Bill Rosenthal will provide the entertainment. Get your reservation in now because tickets go fast. The cost is $30 per person, so please make sure to RSVP by Feb. 7th. Checks are to be made payable to Temple Bet Yam with ‘Deli Nite’ indicated as the memo and send to Temple Bet Yam, PO Box 860098, St.

Augustine, FL 32086. For more information, contact Barbara

Carman at 904-826-3676 or email wandmtby@gmail.com.

Keep your New Year’s resolution with yoga and the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s help By Jacksonville Jewish Center

Keep that commitment to yourself to exercise and get in shape in 2017. Come to the Jacksonville Jewish Center for a low impact Yoga Shalom class beginning, Wednesday Feb. 15 at 10 a.m. The group will meet the second, third, and fourth Wednesdays of each month. No fee or prior experience is necessary, so bring a positive attitude and a towel or exercise mat. To sign up or to get more information contact Sandy Selwitz at selwitzs@

gmail.com or Naomi Lazar at naomilazar2014@gmail. com. In February the group will meet the 8th, 15th and 22nd. Find out more adult education and enrichments events taking place at the Center on page no. 38 of this issue of the Jacksonville Jewish News.

By Etz Chaim Synagogue

Etz Chaim Synagogue is proud to bring back its annual Yom Limmud event, scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 12th Yom Limmud is a day of studying and learning, designed to offer its participants the opportunity to develop a deeper connection to the fundamental concepts in Judaism, in an intellectually challenging atmosphere. Presented by world famous lecturer Rabbi Benjamin Blech, this year’s event will touch on the topic of ‘If God Is Good, Why Is the World So Bad?’ The class will explore how Judaism has many ways to deal with the universal challenge to the belief that stems from the seeming injustice of the world. Rabbi Blech, is an internationally recognized educator, religious

Rabbi Benjamin Blech

leader, author, and lecturer and is the author of 12 highly acclaimed and best-selling books, with combined sales of close to half a million copies, including three as part of the highly popular ‘Idiot’s Guide’ series. In a national survey from jewsweek.com, Rabbi Bleich was ranked no. 16 in a listing of the 50 most influential Jews in America. The event is made possible by the generoisty of Dr. Larry and Kathy Kantor and family. For more information or to register please visit etzchaim.org or contact Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum at rabbifeigenbaum@etzchaim. org and 904-262-3565, ext. 5.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

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synagogue news The Temple to welcome former FTU editor Annual Beth El - Beaches’ Frank Denton for brotherhood breakfast Sisterhood Tu B’Shevat Transportation Authority and the Seder to be held Feb. 9th Jacksonville Police and Fire PenBy the Temple Brotherhood

The ‘best breakfast in town’ will once again be prepared by The Temple’s Brotherhood chefs, Sunday, Feb. 12 at Congregation Ahavath Chesed. Breakfast is served at 10 a.m., followed by a presentation by Frank Denton, who retired at the end of 2016 from the position of Editor of the Florida TimesUnion and Jacksonville.com after nine years in that role. Denton, 71, became Editor-at-Large, effective Jan. 1, and remains responsible for the editorial page among other duties. He also will continue as Vice President for Journalism for Morris Publishing Group, parent company of the Times-Union. “This change will allow me more time and freedom to explore other interests outside the T-U, including working on a book or two, and it will provide the newsroom

Frank Denton

fresh leadership in Mary Kelli Palka’s very capable hands,” Denton said. Palka previously served as Managing Editor of the T-U. During Denton’s tenure, TimesUnion investigations have led to leadership changes and other reforms at Florida State College at Jacksonville, JEA, the Jacksonville

sion Fund. He was the named plaintiff, representing the newspaper, in the successful 2013 lawsuit against former Mayor Alvin Brown, the city and the pension fund for violating the state open-meetings law. Their secretly negotiated pension-reform plan was tossed out by the courts, and a new one was developed in public. “I also am proud of our adoption of what I call ‘the journalism of hope,’ covering good news alongside the negative and emphasizing solutions as well as problems,” Denton added. Both women as well as men are welcome to attend the Brotherhood’s breakfast. The cost is $6 per person with prior reservations and $8 at the door.

BY GAIL GREENFIELD

Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue

All are welcomed to come to Beth El – The Beaches Synagogue, Thursday, Feb. 9th at 6 p.m., for its annual Tu B’Shevat Seder, where trees will celebrated for all the food, shade and shelter they provide. The custom of holding a Tu B’Shevat Seder dates back to the Kabbalists who lived in Israel in the 16th century. Like them,

modern day Jews gather together to eat, sing, and rejoice in the miracle of the tree. This meaningful Seder, led by Rabbi Matuson, will include wines that reflect the changing seasons, fruits that represent the Kabbalistic four worlds and a light dinner. The cost is $18 per person, and please feel free to bring family and friends. To RSVP, contact Bobby Adler at b.adler4315@gmail.com or at 904-834-2948.

Learn the original bible during the The Temple to offer special Jacksonville Jewish Center’s February Tikkun Olam Civil Rights Shabbaton with Dr. Joel Hoffman Journey through the south By Jacksonville Jewish Center

By Congregation Ahavath Chesed

Every year, the Jacksonville Jewish Center brings in an engaging scholar-in-residence, thanks to the generosity of the Safer family in memory of Marilyn and Louis Safer, who were committed to keeping their synagogue as the center of Jewish life and learning. This philosophy was shared by their children, who generously established a fund in their parents’ memory that provides underwriting for this annual event. This year’s Shabbaton, which will be held, Friday, Feb. 24 – Sunday, Feb. 26, and features linguist Joel M. Hoffman, an energetic, fun, and insightful biblical scholar known for his fresh insights about religious life in the 21st century. A selection of his many books will be available for purchase and signing on Sunday morning, following a short discussion of ‘Ancient Answers to Good and Evil That Were Cut From the Bible’. Other subjects that will be covered throughout the weekend include a Friday evening talk on ‘Four Exiles and Four Spiritual Revolutions’, which is a whirlwind tour of 3,000 years of Judaism. How are we, today, like the prophets and like the authors of

the Talmud? What will we build for future generations? A Saturday sermon, plus a ‘Lunch and Learn’ event following services entitled ‘The Bible Doesn’t Say That!’ will highlight Shabbat. The talk will focus on what does the Bible really say about subjects such as violence and marriage as 2,000 years of revisionism will be peeled back and participants will take a look at the Bible as it originally was. Additionally, Dr. Hoffman will delight special Shabbaton Supporters at a private Patron Event

Dr. Joel M. Hoffman

Rabbi Rick Shapiro, Interim Senior Rabbi at The Temple, and Mike Elkin, The Temple’s Tikkun Olam Committee Chair, have designed the trip of a lifetime for the first 20 people who commit. The trip will take place Feb. 16-19 and will include stops in Birmingham, Selma and Atlanta, three spiritual nights including private transportation by 16-passenger van.

with a series of vignettes from his personal experiences in Israel as a writer for the Jerusalem Post, and on Sunday morning he will interact with school children with the surprising story of where our food comes from and why we should care so much. All of the speaking events are free and open to the public. The costs and menus for optional accompanying meals are now available, and pre-paid reservations for all meals can be made by calling Rose Tincher at 904-292-1000 or Lois Tompkins at LTompkins@ jaxjewishcenter.org . Reservations are due in by Feb. 17.

“This is our chance to step back in history and discover the path to civil rights freedom,” explained Elkin. Tour highlights include tours of the Rosa Parks Museum and the Southern Poverty Law Center; a private meeting with Joanne Bland who participated in the march on Bloody Sunday, tour of the Civil Right institute in Birmingham and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Non-Violence. “For too many years, I heard from our Confirmation students about their amazing trip to Selma and the Edmund Pettis Bridge, as they were inspired by the church

Rabbi Joshua Heschel with MLK

service at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, where Martin Luther King preached and they were moved by their visit to the Southern Poverty Law Center, so I asked Rabbi Shapiro if we could provide a similar experience for adults,” Elkin added. Trip cost is $390 per person, double occupancy. Single supplement is $210 and a deposit of $100 is due no later than Feb. 6 by check or credit card. Full payment is due no later than February 13, so for more information, or to register call the Temple 904-733-7078.

Beth El - The Beaches Pair of special programs will take place at Jacksonville Jewish Center’s Celebrates Chanukah with dinner and dreidels Selevan Religious School By Bernard & Alice Selevan Religious School

Families from the Bernard & Alice Selevan Religious School will join together, Sunday, Feb. 12, to celebrate two very special occasions. First, the holiday of Tu B’Shevat, and second, Hagigat HaSiddur, in which students in first and second grade receive their very own siddur. Tu B’Shevat is the birthday of the trees and will be celebrated as an educational event, applying the school’s signature ‘Judaism through the Arts’ program. Students will earn leaves as they travel through stations that teach about the importance of trees and the environment. They will also taste exotic fruits, hear and

discuss traditional stories, play an interactive video game, and eventually help to construct a giant tree of their very own. Parents and Grandparents will enjoy the Hagigat HaSiddur program, which will be a more personalized follow-up to a congregation-wide celebration at Shabbat Services on the previous day. First and second graders will reprise the songs that were performed with their Day School friends as a part of Shabbat Shira Saturday morning and they will each be recognized with certificates, their own siddurim for future study. They will also be given Leagrams or personalized message booklets from the congregation in addition to a special sweet treat. The school has prepared for

months by collecting tzedakah in their Jewish National Fund ‘Blue Boxes’, a part of the school’s Shabbat Box program. This amount, which is expected to reach more than $300, will be donated to JNF’s efforts to rebuild Israel after the devastating fires of 2016. Each student will also receive their very own ‘Blue Box’ to encourage continued support for this important organization.

Rabbi Matuson led all of the attendees to Beth El’s Chanukah dinner and celebration in a holiday welcome and blessing in mid-December

BY BETH BRENNER Education Director

In late December, Beth El members of all generations gathered together to celebrate the Festival of Lights. A delicious dinner was served, music was

played and crafts were made, while the inaugural Major League Dreidel tournament was held. Things got pretty heated near the end, but many walked away smiling whether they won or not and Rabbi Matuson led everyone in a Chanukah blessing prior to dinner being served.

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synagogue news

Temple to offer mini-course on the sacred Having Chanukah on the Brain and the important meaning of the Torah where the Rabbis of the Mishna and Talmud introduced many radical innovations into the life of ancient Israel. These innovations helped to lay the foundation for the Judaism that we recognize today. Over the course of six to eight weekly meetings, this class will explore some key examples of these innovations as well as the process that they used to produce them and will be taught by Rabbi Shapiro.

By Congregation Ahavath Chesed

For nearly two months this winter, Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) will offer a class on the subject of the Pharasaic Revolution and the Torah only meaning what the Rabbis say it means. The minicourse will last from Feb. 7 – Mar. 28 and will cover the time span of from the first century B.C.E to the fifth century C.E.,

The Temple to host meditation in Jewish context 10 week mini- series BY JUDITH LEIBOWTIZ Class Administrator

People have been coming together to meditate in a Jewish context at the Temple since Passover and the group has yet again started to meet. The ten-week series resumed in late January and will continue through March 9th. It takes place each Thursday from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Those in attendance will learn how to meditate and explore the connection between Jewish spirituality and mindfulness, while connecting with others. Take an hour to renew, relax, and pause as meditation offers benefits for health and well-being. Because this group is offered in a Jewish context, this hour

also provides the opportunity for reflection and discussion about connecting Judaism and spiritual practice. A group of 8-12 members is desired, so curious, experienced and beginner meditators are welcome. This series is facilitated by Judith Leibowitz and meets at Congregation

Ahaveth Chesed (8727 San Jose Blvd). Please send an e-mail to Judithleibowitz@comcast.net or call 904-329-3446 to sign up or for more information.

An adult acting like a kid at heart during a Clay Co. Chabad event as he wears a festive Chanukah hat which compliments his bright yellow vest

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Jacksonville Jewish News February 2017

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Anne Frank Exhibit

Continued from pg. 1

Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

anne frank exhibit news and notes Last June, a team led by Dr. Richard Freund, a Judaic studies professor at the University of Hartford, and Jon Seligman, an archaeologist with the Israel Antiquities Authority, discovered the existence of an escape tunnel at Ponary, just outside

of Vilnius, Lithuania. The tunnel had been rumored in oral histories and kept alive by escapees, their descendants, and other Lithuanian Jews from that era, including Freund’s greatgrandfather, who came from Vilnius. Meet Dr. Freund and see a 15-minute

preview of the Nova episode that filmed the international team during their historical find. Tickets are free, but seating is limited. For tickets or more information, email Geri Cirillo at gcirillo@wjct.org or reserve them at AnneFrankJax.org.

Please see below for a complete listing of February’s programs and confirm individual event details as the date approaches by checking the websites or contacting the individuals or organizations listed.

complete exhibit and event schedule for FEBRUARY 2017 - ONGOING EVENTS Saturdays (1 p.m.) (3 p.m.) I Am From - A poetry workshop for participants 13 years and older to help process and connect with what they learned from the Anne Frank exhibit while exploring their own experiences with injustice or discrimination. Location: MOSH. Free admission. For more information, contact 904-868-4673. Sponsored by Hope at Hand & the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs. Sessions will be held Jan. 14th, 21st, 28th, Feb 4th and 11th. January 8 – February 4 Lawyers Without Rights: Jewish Lawyers in Germany Under the Third Reich - An exhibit that shows how the Nazis purged Jewish lawyers in Germany as one of the early steps to attack the rule of law in their country. Location: Jacksonville Main Public Library. Free admission. For more information, contact lbuggs@coj.net or call 904-630-2665. Sponsored by the Jacksonville Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, the American Bar Association and the Jacksonville Public Library. January 13 - February 12 Anne Frank: A History for Today - The exhibit is open to the public during these dates. Location: MOSH. Free admission to the Museum and exhibit. For more information, go to themosh.org or call 904-396-6674. January 13 – February 12 Remembering the Holocaust in Art: From the Collection of Dan and Cindy Edelman - An exhibition of photographs, woodcuts, and other visual art to inspire visitors to help create a more inclusive community. Location: MOSH. January 13 – February 12 Witnesses to the Shoah - A video of interviews with Jacksonville Holocaust survivors. Location:

MOSH. Produced by Dan Kossoff and WJCT. January 17 - February 24 Parallel Journeys: World War II and the Holocaust Through the Eyes of Teens - Travelling exhibit about 40 teenagers who were witnesses, participants or victims of WWII and the Holocaust. Location: Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ). Free admission. For more information, contact Beth Harvey at 904646-2349.Sponsored by FSCJ and Kennesaw State University. March 8 - May 1 Searching for Identity Through the Lens of the Second Generation Holocaust Survivor –A multimedia exhibit that highlights essays authored by Jacksonville second generation Holocaust survivors in collaboration with maquettes hand built by the Bolles School AP art students and portraiture by Jacksonville photographer, Chad Dennis. Location: Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church. Free admission. Sponsored by Searching for Identity and Jewish Family & Community Services. - SPECIAL EVENTS February 1 (7 p.m.) Rosenwald –A documentary followed by a discussion with Dr. Howard Dodson, Director Emeritus of the Schomburg Center, New York, about Julius Rosenwald, a Jewish philanthropist, and Booker T. Washington, an African American educator and civil rights activist, who worked together to build more than 5,000 schools for African American children in the South. Location: Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Tickets: $10. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call 904-899-6038 or visit cummermuseum.org/event/ rosenwald-movie-and-discussion. Sponsored by MOSH and the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

February 2 (4 p.m.) Readings from ‘Run, Boy, Run’ by Uri Orlev - Location: San Marco Bookstore. Free admission, so for more information, contact 904-3967597 or send an email to Sanmarcobooks@aol.com. February 4 –(3 p.m.) Salem Neighbor: Syrian Families Living as Refugees - A documentary discussion and exhibit about the challenges refugee families face abroad and in the U.S. as they struggle to care for their children while trying to overcome personal loss and cultural barriers. Location: The Foundation Academy. Free admission, so for more information, contact staugustineﬁlmsociety@ gmail.com or bboydston@wr.org. You can also call 904-535-4575 or 904-254-9524.Sponsored by World Relief Jacksonville and the St. Augustine Film Society. February 6 (6-7 p.m.) Workplace Discrimination:Have We Progressed? - A panel discussion with a diverse group of community leaders to examine workplace discrimination, modern-day challenges and possible solutions. Location: MOSH Wells Fargo Room. Free admission. For more information, contact OneJax at 904-620-1529, onejax@unf.edu or www.onejax.org.Sponsored by the Jacksonville Human Rights Commission, OneJax, and the Jacksonville Public Library. February 7 (6:30 p.m.) Watchers of the Sky – A powerful documentary that interweaves mass atrocities around the world and examines the life of Raphael Lemkin, who coined the term ‘genocide’ in an effort to have it recognized as an international crime and prevented from ever reoccurring in history. Location: MOSH. Tickets:$5 General Public; $4 MOSH members. For more information, contact jgreenlee@themosh. org or call 904-396-6674, ext. 238.

February 8 Rosenwald: Documentary and Discussion - A documentary and discussion about Julius Rosenwald, a Jewish philanthropist who worked with Booker T. Washington, an African American educator and civil rights activist to build more than 5,000 schools for African American children in the south. Location: Edward Waters College (EWC). Private event for EWC students only. For more information, call 904-470-8252.

February 25 (12–5 p.m.) Race Films as a Voice of Hope Against Discrimination and Stereotypes - Ed Safer’s presentation about the Holocaust, a documentary, exhibit and panel discussion about the use of ‘race ﬁlms’ to combat stereotypes, discrimination, and break down racial barriers. Location: Norman Studios Silent Film Museum, Inc., Tickets: Adults $5; Students Free. For more information, contact Rita Reagan at 904-7160706 or ritareagan@comcast.net.

February 9 (4 p.m.) Readings from ‘The Boy in the Striped Pajamas’ by John Boyne. - Location: San Marco Bookstore. Free admission. For more information, call 904-396-7597 or sanmarcobooks.com.

February 26 (9:15 a.m.) Lessons from the Holocaust: Standing up to Anti-Semitism and Hate Today - A community breakfast and discussion highlighting practical tools and resources to empower individuals and communities to stand up to modern forms of anti-Semitism and hate. Location: Etz Chaim Synagogue. Free admission. For more information, call 904-262-3565.

February 9 (6-9 p.m.) WJCT presents An Evening with Dr. Richard Freund, The Secret Escape Tunnel from the Holocaust in Lithuania - A discussion and clips from the upcoming NOVA science series about the courageous escape in 1944 by Jewish captives in the Ponar Burial Pits in Lithuania through a secret tunnel they dug. Location: WJCT. For more information and tickets call 904-353-7770. February 24 (6-8 p.m.) Equity and Justice Will Not Be Silenced – How the Voice of Technology Has Evolved forAtRisk and Under-Served Teens and Young Adults - An exhibit and discussion about how young role models who have suffered hardship and discrimination spread their message of equity and social justice. Location: Jacksonville Marine Science Research Institute. Free admission, so for more information, go to jacksonvillesciencefestival.org, or contact Tia Unthank at 904-4933535. Sponsored by the Jacksonville Science Festival in collaboration with Teens Go Green, the Cathedral Arts Project and the Jax Kids Mural Festival.

February 26 (12–4 p.m.) Race Films as a Voice of Hope Against Discrimination and Stereotypes - Ed Safer’s presentation about the Holocaust, a documentary, exhibit and panel discussion about the use of ‘race ﬁlms’ to combat stereotypes, discrimination, and break down racial barriers. Location: Norman Studios Silent Film Museum, Inc., Tickets: Adults $5; Students: Free. For more information, contact Rita Reagan at 904-7160706 or ritareagan@comcast.net.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

chabad news

Six area Chabads join together for annual Chanukah at the Landing celebration

upcoming and ongoing events Clay County Tanya Class - Practical Spirituality for Everyday Life. Held Shabbos mornings from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Shabbat Beginner’s Service – Held 12 p.m. followed by a light Kiddush Friday night (Shabbat) dinner – Next one to be held Feb. 3rd in Fleming Island. Mandarin/HQ Daily Chassidic Philosophy Held weekday mornings, Monday – Friday, 6:40 a.m., Sundays 8:15 a.m., with instructor Rabbi Yossie Kahanov. Insights on the Torah Portion Shabbos Mornings, 8:30 a.m., with instructor Rabbi Mendy Browd.

Rabbi B. performs on the main stage The grand menorah lighting takes place as the sun goes down Sunday By Chabad Lubavitch of NE Fla.

Chabad of Northeast Florida’s annual Chanukah at the Landing was held Sunday, Dec. 25th and more than 250 people came out to

the celebration featuring an encore performance by Rabbi B, a Chanukah family fair, Kosher food, and even a Chanukah boat in the S. John’s River. Festivities kickedoff earlier in the afternoon with a special Chanukah parade caravan,

which stretched from the Beaches to Mandarin and ended up taking participants with hazards flashing on I-295 until its grand entrance over the Main Street Bridge to the landing.

Southside Chabad lights menorah for the very ﬁrst time at the St. Johns Town Center By Southside Chabad

As the Town Center expands, so do Chanukah celebrations, as history was made this in December when the first ever public menorah lighting ceremony was held at the Town Center in Jacksonville. Some 150 participants joined in the activities at the heart of the shopping complex at the park green in front of Maggiano’s, when the flames were kindled. A grand raffle left one lucky winner with an actual flying drone as hot latkes were distributed and Chanukah kits with candles and dreidel were given to anyone who needed them. Mr. Birko Roland of Global Diamonds was honored with

Israel Cohen led the singing of

By Southside Chabad

Bless America.

for Sunday February 12th. Geared toward college and pre-college students, the program will feature compelling guests including UNF faculty, an AIPAC representative and more, peer-to-peer activities

and a catered lunch. “This isn’t going to be a bunch of boring speeches,” said Chabad of Southside co-director Rabbi Shmuli Novack. “The Workshop will be a fun afternoon with great, entertaining people, excellent food and an important purpose and that’s to empower students to be effective advocates for Israel.” This program is made possible with a grant from the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida and is free for college and precollege students. To RSVP visit southsidechabad.com or call 904646-4434.Non college/pre-college students $36.

Chabad at the Beaches to hold 2,439th annual Purim celebration featuring ﬁne South American cuisine By Chabad at the Beaches

The entire Beaches Jewish community is invited regardless of affiliation or background to its annual Purim celebration as the event will include a fun interactive Megilla Reading followed by a meal that will feature delicious

Women’s Study Group Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m., with instructor Rebbetzin Rivkie Kahanov. Shabbos Live - Join us for a memorable Shabbat dinner and monthly oneg, Nov. 25th. The dinner is free and open to all to experience the feeling of holiness that only Shabbat can bring. Great food, insightful discussion, Chassidic melodies and a warm ‘Heimish’ atmosphere is to be had. Call 904-262-6641 for more information or to reserve a spot. Southside CHS - Chabad Hebrew School on the Southside - Mid Year enrollment is now open. At CHS Jewish learning is meaningful and fun. The school enjoys a well-earned reputation as a trendsetter in creative Jewish education for children ages 5-13. From lively interactive classroom discussions to exciting hands on learning programs, it’s unique learning experience will engage, excite, involve, and inspire young minds and hearts. School is held Sundays from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Visit SouthsideChabad.com for more information.

Yoga and Torah for Women: Unleash Your Inner Strength Rabbi Shmuli Novack leads the crowd in the night’s Chanukah blessings Invigorating Yoga exercise followed by delicious and healthy refreshlighting the Chanukiyah while Mr. Maoz Tzur, Oseh Shalom and G-d ments and a thought provoking

Israel advocacy workshop to be held for college and high school students Heading off to college is an exciting time in any young person’s life, new friends, new experiences and a major step forward in life. For Jewish students however, there is an added concern, and that is Israel. Campuses across the nation have become a hotbed of antiIsrael propaganda and activity in recent years. More than ever our young men and women need tools to successfully advocate for Israel. With this in mind, Chabad of Southside presents the ‘Israel Advocacy Workshop’, scheduled

Exploring The Talmud Tuesday evenings after Maariv with instructor Rabbi Mendy Browd.

South American cuisine, Purim in South America, an interactive, entertaining, hands on Purim event will be hosted at the Aaron and Blanche Scharf Chabad Center, Saturday March 11th at 7:3o p.m., where attendees will be able to create their own tacos, brazilian drinks and Hamantaschen. There

will also be live entertainment, a costume contest, along with fun and excitement. Call 904-5439301 for more information or go to chabadbeaches.com/purim.

discussion of Jewish wisdom. No prior Jewish Education or Yoga Experience necessary. Class meets every other Wednesday evenings by the St. Johns Town Center. To RSVP visit SouthsideChabad.com or call 904-646-4434. Saturday Morning Shabbat Services Join us for services with Rabbi Shmuli Novack in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Our nonjudgmental philosophy embraces everyone, regardless of commitment or religious background. Services are held at 10:30 a.m., in a traditional setting, with a contemporary message. A traditional cholent luncheon follows services. Visit SouthsideChabad.com for more information. S. Augustine Kabbalah and Coffee - Sunday mornings from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Torah Studies – Examining the weekly torah portion, Wednesday evenings from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. Beginners Shabbat Services and Kiddush – Held Saturday mornings from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. S. Johns Torah & Tea Series – Join Jewish women Mondays at 7:30 p.m., for inspiring Torah discussions, Jewish meditation, camaraderie, hot tea, and delicious refreshments for the feminine Spirituali-Tea! For more information Email: Dini@JewishSJohnsCounty.com. GROW MyPalette Series - Grow After-School Enrichment Program begins a new six-week course entitled ‘MyPalette’. The GROW After-School Enrichment Program takes place every Tuesday at Durbin Creek Elementary School. For more info visit JewishSJohnsCounty.com/GROW. Hebrew School for Grownups - Is your informal space to refresh your knowledge of Judaism. You’ll gain a basic knowledge of Jewish practice and an understanding of why we ‘Jew-it’, while delving into the deeper, more mystical aspects of Jewish life. Contact info@ JewishSJohnsCounty.com for more information.

www.chabadjacksonville.org

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

federation news

Federation’s cocktails and clergy will be a night of community-wide Jewish learning, Feb. 18th BY ARIEL FRECHTMAN rGEN Director arielf@jewishjacksonville.org

The Jewish Federation of Jacksonville is thrilled to announce that its second annual

will be no different as the roster is filled with influential clergy from the community, including Rabbi Matt Cohen of Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple), Rabbi Michael Matuson of Beth El-The Beaches, Rabbis Jonathan Lubliner and Howard Tilman of the Jacksonville Jewish Center, in addition to Rabbis Yaakov Fisch and Avi Feigenbaum of Etz Chaim Synagogue. Each Rabbi will teach

Cocktails and Clergy event will take place, Saturday, Feb. 18, at Congregation Ahavath Chesded (The Temple). Last year, more than 150 individuals gathered for community-wide Havdalah, a cocktail and dessert reception, and night of Jewish learning. This year

community members about a topic of their choosing in order to provide an opportunity for Jews of all different affiliations, as well as the non-affiliated, to learn side-by-side. Please contact Ariel Frechtman at arielf@jewishjacksonville.org, or 904-448-5000, ext. 1208 for more information. Your registration is appreciated no later than Thursday, Feb. 16, at jewishjacksonville.org/clergy18.

rGEN reaches multiple generations Jacksonville delegation through its Chanukah programming inspired and invigorated at the General Assembly BY HALEY TRAGER 2016 Event Attendee

The rGEN division offered an array of Chanukah events this past December for kids and families (left) during its Chanukah Extravaganza Dec. 18th as well as for young professionals (right) for rGENukkah Eve, Dec. 24th

BY ARIEL FRECHTMAN rGEN Director arielf@jewishjacksonville.org

This year, rGEN celebrated Chanukah in two very different but equally festive ways. In mid-December, friends of all ages gathered at River Garden for the first ever ‘rGEN Family Chanukah Extravaganza’, where there was fun to be had for kids and the kids at heart. Events included, PJ Library story time, crafts with DuBow

Preschool Treehouse, sufganiyot decorating, singing and dancing. A big thanks goes out to host River Garden Senior Services and

the many volunteers who made this multi-generational event a huge success. Nearly a week later, the community’s Jewish young professionals gathered at HOBNOB in Riverside to light candles in celebration of the very first night of the Festival of Lights. Another big thank you goes out to friends and co-sponsors, SoShul Network and The Temple 20s and 30s for making ‘rGENukkah Eve’ possible and such a big success.

In November, seven Jacksonville delegates attended the Jewish Federation of North America 2016 General Assembly in Washington D.C. This year’s GA theme, “Jewish Journeys Start at Federation”, was inspiring for guests from start to finish. Beginning the three-day journey with an extravaganza featuring young adult Jewish experiences, delegates celebrated the nearly one million young people whose lives have been changed by Haley Trager with television personalthe work of Federation. Following ity and best-selling author Andy Cowere round table discussions from some of the world’s leading experts hen at the Joshua Society Luncheon spotlighting the impact of major world events on the Jewish commu- of African American History and Culture. The group also heard Ruth nity. The first day concluded with a Bader Ginsburg, whose life has special address by International Religious Leader, Rabbi Lord Jonathan spanned most of modern Jewish history, share her experiences with Sacks, who powerfully motivated participants and saw an incredible the audience to purposely shape tribute to the legacy of the iconic their own Jewish journey. Shimon Peres, preceding a closing The assembly continued with plenary featuring Israeli Prime Minopportunities to attend informaister, Benjamin Netanyahu. tive breakout sessions covering an The GA galvanized everyone array of topics about how people are doing Jewish today. From Eating as they explored Federation’s work around the world with experts, Jewish to Filming Jewish, particibeneficiaries, and peers. At the close pants were engaged, entertained, of this year’s voyage, attendees were and moved by speakers who shared left energized and enthusiastic to their personal cultural and crereturn home with a continued comative experiences. Other highlights mitment to Jewish life, along with included Jacksonville delegates the learning and fulfillment that having the honor to meet with comes with our Jewish community Natan Sharansky, Chairman of the and its philanthropic involvement. Executive for the Jewish Agency Mark your calendars now for the and a living symbol of human 2017 General Assembly in Los rights, in addition to being one of Angeles and the 2018 conference in the first groups invited to tour the Tel Aviv. newly opened National Museum

The President’s message from the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida (JCF) BY SUE NUSSBAUM Foundation President

I am Sue Nussbaum, currently serving as president of the Jewish Community Foundation of NE Florida. In December, our Executive Director, Jeff Klein, resigned to take a new position at the Jewish Federation in Boca Raton. We thank Jeff for his service and wish his family all the best. This has created an opportunity for our Board to explore a variety of models to determine the best way for the Jewish Community Foundation to move forward. We have formed a Transition Committee, chaired by Past President, Mark Green. This Committee includes: Larry Appel, Jeff Edwards, Myron Flagler, Mel Gottlieb, Alan Margolies, Shari Shuman, Steve Silverman, Richard Sisisky, Sandy Zimmerman, Barry Zisser and me. The committee is charged to make a recommendation to the Board on how to insure a sustainable endowment program for the Jewish Community. We are going to speak with several community endowment programs and visit like-sized organizations in other communities to learn best

JCF President Sue Nussbaum practices. During this transition, we will continue to provide services to our partner agencies, partner synagogues and donors. We will keep our community posted as we move through the months ahead. Laura Thompson, JD, has been selected to serve as Interim Executive Director and Jean Brantley continues to serve the administrative needs of the organization. They can be reached at 904-394-0729. If anyone would like further information or to discuss the business of the Jewish Community Foundation with me, I can be reached at 904-206-0611.

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Jacksonville Jewish News â&#x20AC;˘ February 2017

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federation news

The Jewish Federation of Jacksonville thanks you for your support! We appreciate our donors and want to express this each month in the Jacksonville Jewish News. Thank you to the following donors who have made a commitment to support our 2016-17 Federation Annual Campaign as of January 15, 2016. Names in BOLD & LIGHT BLUE denote a gift that was made since Dec. 1, 2016. Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abel Dr. and Mrs. Mark Abramson Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Ackerman Dr. and Mrs. Tony Adelson Dr. and Mrs. Philip Adler Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Alterman Ms. Barbara Ames Mr. and Mrs. Allan Andrew Mr. and Mrs. Marc Angelo Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Appelbaum Mr. and Mrs. William Arnold Mr. and Mrs. Henry Arnold Ms. Sara August Mr. and Mrs. David Bailys Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Bannon Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Barkowitz Dr. and Mrs. Harold Baumgarten Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Beckerman Mr. and Mrs. Jean Benjamin Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Odell Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Bennett Dr. and Mrs. Guy Benrubi Dr. Isidore D. Benrubi Mr. and Mrs. Greg Berger Mr. Martin Berger Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Berger Mr. Daniel Bergman Mr. and Mrs. Larry Bernard Dr. Anne Bernstein Mrs. Adrienne Biber Mr. and Mrs. Abe Bielski Mr. and Mrs. Larry Blaustein Block Family Mr. and Mrs. Fred Blum Ms. Stacey Blum Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Board Mrs. Traude Bohrman Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bossen Mr. Wiatt Bowers Dr. Joy and Mr. Steven Boyne Mr. and Mrs. James Brady Ms. Michelle Branly Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Breault Mrs. Ruchel Broadman Mr. and Mrs. Richard Browdy Dr. and Mrs. Andy Brown Mrs. Estelle Brust Drs. Robert and Suzanne Bryskin Dr. and Mrs. Dennis Buchman Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Buckley Mr. and Mrs. Howard Buss Cantor and Ms. Henry Butensky Mrs. Felice Caliestro Mr. and Mrs. Paul Cantor Mr. and Mrs. Steven Cantor Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Chait Mr. and Mrs. Barry Chefer Ms. Miriam Chefer Dr. and Mrs. Mark Cheiken Mr. and Mrs. Allan Cheiken Mr. and Mrs. Alan Chepenik Dr. Colleen Bell and Mr. Craig Cherrin Ms. Susan Cherry Ms. Carol Cohane Mr. and Mrs. Martin Cohen Rabbi and Mrs. Matt Cohen Ms. Joanne Cohen Dr. and Mrs. Donald Cohen Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Cohen Mr. and Mrs. Perry Cohen Mr. and Mrs. Melvyn Cohen Mr. and Mrs. Meir Cohen Mr. and Mrs. Jack Coleman Mr. and Mrs. Mark Cooper Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Coplan Ms. Cheryl Covitz Dr. and Mrs. Richard Crovatto Mr. and Mrs. Walter Crowder Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Datz Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Datz Ms. Joan Davidow and Mr. Stuart Glass Drs. Leo and Joanne Davis Mr. and Mrs. Jim De Arman Ms. Angela Deese-Theobald Mr. and Mrs. Moti Demri Mrs. Marilyn Desser Mr. and Mrs. Scott Dreicer DuBow Family Mr. and Mrs. Alexius Dyer Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Edelman Mr. and Mrs. Martin Edwards Ms. Gloria Einstein Mrs. Judy R. Eisen Mr. and Mrs. Jack Eisenberg Dr. and Mrs. Ronald Elinoff Mr. and Mrs. Michael Elkin Dr. and Mrs. Mark Emas Ms. Arlene Faracchio Mr. and Mrs. Dave Fastenberg Rabbi and Mrs. Avi Feigenbaum Dr. and Mrs. Neil Feinglass Ms. Harriet Feinglass Mr. and Mrs. Alan Feldman Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Feldman Mr. and Mrs. Brian Feldman Ms. Etta Fialkow Mr. and Mrs. Neal Finkelstein Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Fischer Mr. and Mrs. Paul Fischoff

Mr. Dave Flagler Mr. Matt Flagler Mr. and Mrs. Martin Flamm Mr. and Mrs. Michael Fleet Ms. Kaitlin Flynn Ms. Deborah Foust Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Fox Mr. and Mrs. Sheldon Fox Mr. Matthew Franzblau Ms. Ariel Frechtman Mrs. Marilyn Freedman Dr. and Mrs. Marc Freeman Dr. and Mrs. Michael Freeman Mr. and Mrs. Sheldon Friedman Judge Jerry Funk Ms. Elaine Furman Mr. and Mrs. Paul Furman Mr. and Mrs. Harold Garber Mr. and Mrs. Henry Gare Mr. and Mrs. Simon Garwood Mr. Victor Gaukhman Mr. and Mrs. Larry Geller Judge and Mrs. Marvin Gillman Mr. and Mrs. Marc Gladstone Mr. Peter Levy and Ms. Kim Glasgal Mr. and Mrs. Martin Goetz Dr. and Mrs. Lawrence Goldberg Ms. Lauren Goldenberg Mr. and Mrs. Ira Goldfield Mr. David Golding and Ms. Leslie Carmel Mrs. Irma Goldman Mr. and Mrs. David Goldman Mr. Alan Goldman Mr. and Mrs. Marty Goldmintz Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Goldsmith Mr. and Mrs. Allen Goldstein Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Goldstein Mr. Harvey Goldstein Ms. Janet Goldstein Mr. Jonathan Goodman Mrs. Gloria Goodman Mr. and Mrs. David Goodman Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Gordon Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Goshen Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Jarzyna Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Gottlieb Mr. and Mrs. Chris Gould Mr. and Mrs. John Grado Dr. and Mrs. Brett Gratz Dr. and Mrs. Alvin Green Dr. and Mrs. Michael Greenburg Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Greenfield Dr. Mickey Greenfield Ms. Gari Greenwald Mr. and Mrs. Edward Grenadier Mr. and Mrs. Shawn Arnold Mr. and Mrs. Michael Grossinger Mrs. Dolly Grunthal Drs. Randall and Shoshana Haas Dr. and Mrs. Jesse Halpern Mrs. Cynthia Handmaker Mr. and Mrs. Robert Harris Mr. and Mrs. Alan Harrison Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hayflick Mrs. Sonie Hecht Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hedrick Mrs. Leslie Held Mr. Steven Heller Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Herman Ms. Dena Heyman Ms. Karen Hill Mr. and Mrs. Howard Hodor Mr. Royal Holian Mr. and Mrs. Jay Holiday Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Holzer Hazzan and Mrs. Jesse Holzer Mrs. Nancy Honig Mrs. Wendy Honigman Ms. Sheila Horowitz Ms. Helene Isolica Dr. and Mrs. Ira Jackler Mr. and Mrs. Ted Jackrel Mr. and Mrs. George Jackson Mr. Marc Jackson and Ms. Ann Tiefenthaler Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Jacobs Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Jaffa Ms. Gail Jarrett Mr. and Mrs. Jamie Jolles Dr. Edward Joseph Ms. Sharon Juhasz Mr. and Mrs. Norman Kagan Mr. and Mrs. Alan Kagan Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kahn Mr. and Mrs. Perry Kale Mr. and Mrs. Herb Kaminsky Mr. Jeffry Wollitz and Ms. Randy Kammer Dr. and Mrs. Jesse Kane Dr. and Mrs. Robert Kanner Dr. and Mrs. Larry Kanter Mr. and Mrs. Jay Karp Dr. and Mrs. David Katz Ms. Libby Katz Mr. and Mrs. Manfred Katz Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kaufman Mr. and Mrs. Martin Kaufman Mr. Robert Kaye Mrs. Barbara Kazin Mr. and Mrs. Jim Kempner

Ms. Sharon Kesler Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kessler Mr. and Mrs. Rudolf Kigel Mr. and Mrs. David Kight Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Klausner Mr. and Mrs. Gil Kleiner Ms. Janice Knack Mr. and Mrs. Myron Kodner Mr. and Mrs. Henry Kopp Mr. and Mrs. Brett Koretzky Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Korn Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kornhauser Mr. and Mrs. Eric Korzyniowski Mrs. Sylvia Kraemer Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kraemer Dr. and Mrs. Alan Krantz Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kraus Mr. and Mrs. Leo Kreisel Mrs. Carolyn Krestul Ms. Ann Kristal Mr. and Mrs. Martin Kulchin Mr. Don Kupfer Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Kurtz Dr. and Mrs. Ron Kushner Mr. Carl Kutlin Mr. and Mrs. Grant Kuvin Dr. and Mrs. Dennis Lafer Mr. and Mrs. Eric Land Mr. Howard Laner Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Langer Mr. and Mrs. James Lawson Mrs. Naomi Lazar Mr. and Mrs. Richard Leavitt Ms. Jean Lebowitz and Ms. Thelma Lebowitz Mrs. Dorothy Legum Ms. Sybil Lehr Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Leif Mr. and Mrs. Stephan Leimberg Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Levine Ms. Stefanie Levine Ms. Lillie Ray Levy Mr. and Mrs. Sam Lewis Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Lewis Mr. Tyler Curl and Ms. Jessica Ligator Dr. Leonard Lipkin Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Lipsky Mr. and Mrs. Michael Lissner Mr. and Mrs. Herman Lodinger Dr. David Loeb Ms. Sherri Louer Ms. Maigret Loureiro Ms. Joanne Lowell Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner and Mrs. Susan Lubliner Ms. Marcia Luettchau Mr. Leonard Magid and Mrs. Claudia Baker Mrs. Raquel Maiman Mr. and Mrs. Leonardo Maiman Ms. Stephanie Majeskey Mrs. Ilana Manasse Mr. and Mrs. Alan Margolies Ms. Caroline Marks Dr. and Mrs. Alan Marks Mr. and Mrs. Adam Marmelstein Mr Howard Capland and Ms Jeanne Maron Dr. Donald Mars Dr. Ronald Mars Mr. Ben Marsh Dr. and Mrs. Mike Mass Mrs. Deinya Mautz Mrs. Hilda Mazo Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Meisel Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Melamed Mr. and Mrs. Myron Mensh Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Meritt Mr. and Mrs. Paul Metlin Mr. and Mrs. Yosef Meyer Mr. and Mrs. Tony Milian Mrs. Margaret Miller Mr. and Mrs. David Miller Alexandra Miller Bequest Mr. Daniel Miller and Ms. Lior Spring Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Mintzer Mr. and Mrs. Ruben Mirensky Dr. and Mrs. Jon Mitzmacher Mrs. Judy B. Mizrahi Mr. and Mrs. Alan Mizrahi Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Montagna Dr. and Mrs. Craig Morgenthal Mr. and Mrs. Joel Morris Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Morris Mr. and Mrs. Charles Moskovitz Mr. Andrew Yellen and Ms. Ruthellen Mulberg Ms. Kathy Myers Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Myers Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Nadler Dr. and Mrs. Peter Natale Drs. Steven and Tmima Neihaus Mr. and Mrs. Lon Neuman Mr. and Mrs. Robert Newman Mr. and Mrs. William Newman Mr. and Mrs. Robert Nied Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Nykerk Ms. Linda Oberdorfer Mr. Andrew Ocean Mr. and Mrs. Moshe Ohayon

Mr. and Mrs. Jais Ohayon Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell Olesker Mrs. Donne Ordile Mr. and Ms. Albert Osborne Mr. and Mrs. Morrie Osterer Ms. Janice Ozer Mr. and Mrs. Peter Pagano Ms. Marilyn Pagano Mr. and Mrs. Elliott Palevsky Mr. Michael Pallen Mr. and Mrs. Brian Pargman Mr. and Mrs. Richard Passink Mr. and Mrs. John Pataky Mr. and Mrs. Ira Peck Mr. and Mrs. Mark Penson Mrs. Sophia Pentel Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell Perin Mr. and Mrs. Donald Perlin Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Persky Mr. and Mrs. Eric Pinnar Ms. Laura Platzer Mr. and Mrs. Michael Platzer Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Plotkin Mr. and Mrs. Richard Plotkin Mr. and Mrs. Jay Plotkin Mrs. Lita Poehlman Dr. Judy and Mr. Ronel Poppell Mr. and Mrs. Steven Porter Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Portnoy Mrs. Phyllis Portnoy Mr. and Mrs. Jan Pozin Mr. and Mrs. Fred Pozin Mr. and Mrs. Marc Preminger Mr. Neil Presser Mrs. Anne Presser Mr. and Mrs. Ron Price Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Priddle Ms. Terri Quint Dr. and Mrs. Marco Rand Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Raudt William and Joan Rein Family Mr. and Mrs. Ed Reinfeld Dr. Harry Reinstine Jr Mr. Edward Witlen and Ms. Marie Reitzes Mr. and Mrs. Harold Reiz Mrs. Barbara Resnick Ms. Sondra Resnikoff Mrs. Marian Rice Mrs. Ina Richter Mr. and Mrs. Matt Rickoff Mr. and Mrs. William Rifkin Dr. and Mrs. Harris Rittenberg Mr. Howard Roey Mr. and Mrs. Sam Rogozinski Dr. and Mrs. Chaim Rogozinski Mr. Jeff Rood Mr. and Mrs. Don Rosborough Ms. Margaret Rose Mr. William Rose Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Rosen Mr. Jerome Rosenbaum Mrs. Stacia Rosenblum Mrs. Elaine Rosenthal Mr. and Mrs. Alan Rosner Mr. and Mrs. Steve Ross Ms. Hilary Rotenberg Mrs. Sandi Roth Mr. and Mrs. Paul Rothstein Ms. Nan Rothstein Mr. and Mrs. Grigory Royzen Ms. Nancy Rubenstein Mr. and Mrs. David Saag Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Sachs Mrs. Carol Sack Ms. Daryl Sadowsky Ms. Jill Sadowsky Mr. and Mrs. Eliot Safer Ms. Eleanor Safer Ms. Bess Saliman Mr. and Mrs. Neil Sandler Mr. and Mrs. Mark Saye Mr. and Mrs. David Schachnovsky Dr. and Mrs. Howard Schare Dr. and Mrs. Michael Scharf Dr. and Mrs. Jay Schauben Judge and Mrs. Jack Schemer Ms. Amy Schemer Mrs. Frances Schemer Mr. and Mrs. William Schemer Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Schemer Mrs. Shirley Schemer Mr. and Mrs. Robert Schiller Ms. Ilene Schinasi Judy and Robert Schnitzer Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Schulman Mrs. Laura Schulman Mr. and Mrs. Craig Schwartz Mr. Zachary Schwartz Mr. and Mrs. Allan Sebotnick Ms. Stephanie Seebol Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Seebol Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Sekine Selevan Family Mrs. Mimi Selig Mr. Alan Selmanoff Dr. and Mrs. Robert Selwitz Mrs. Jeanne Serota-Schultz Setzer Family Mr. and Mrs. Alan Setzer Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Shacter

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Shafer Mr. and Mrs. Steven Shapiro Mr. and Mrs. Joel Shapiro Rabbi and Mrs. Rick Shapiro Mr. and Mrs. Steven Sherman Mr. Harry Shmunes Mr. and Mrs. David Shuman Dr. and Mrs. Michael Shumer Mr. and Mrs. Edward Siegel Dr. and Mrs. Raymond Silbar Mr. and Mrs. Leon Silke Ms. Elaine Silver Mrs. Cynthia Silverberg Mr. and Mrs. Gary Silverfield Ms. Barbara Berlin and Mr. Robert Silverman Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Silverman Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Simms Mrs. Deborah Simon Mrs. Julie Simon Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Sims Mr. and Mrs. Federick Singer Mr. and Mrs. Richard Sisisky Mr. and Mrs. Zachary Sherman Mr. and Mrs. Alan Smiley Ms. Laurie Smirl Ms. Dianna Smith Mr. and Mrs. Eric Smith Drs. Todd and Catherine Snowden Mr. and Mrs. Eugolio Soliven Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Solomon Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Solomon Mrs. Carole Solomon Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Spill Mr. Rob Armstrong and Ms. Barbara Stafford Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Stark Mr. and Mrs. David Stein Ms. Ruth Stein Mrs. Marilyn Stein Mr. and Mrs. Murray Stern Ms. Adele Stewart Mrs. Bernice Stone Mr. and Mrs. Leon Stone Dr. and Mrs. Richard Stromberg Mr. George Strumlauf Dr. and Mrs. Saul Sussman Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Tannenbaum Mrs. Marilyn Tanney Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Tavill Rabbi and Mrs. Howard Tilman Ms. Marion Tischler Mr. and Mrs. Marty Trachtenberg Mr. and Mrs. Brent Trager Trager Family Mr. and Mrs. Fred Tromberg Mr. and Mrs. Izrail Turovskiy Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Ullmann Mr. and Mrs. Sean Valliere Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Van Mrs. Dot Verstandig Ms. Sharon Voiron Mr. and Mrs. Vladimir Voloshin Mr. and Mrs. Jules Wagman Mr. and Mrs. Ilan Wajsman Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wallman Mr. Michael Waskew and Ms. Elsa Mitschele Drs. Paul and Marte Wasserman Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Weihnacht Mr. and Mrs. Lowell Weiner Dr. Joseph Weinman Mrs. Linda Weinstein Ms. Rachel Weinstein Mrs. Renee Weinstein Mrs. Margie Weinstein Mr. Daniel Weinstock Mr. Mitchell Weiss and Mrs. Gale Cohen-Weiss Dr. and Mrs. Jerome Weitzen Mrs. June Weltman Dr. and Mrs. Gary Weltman Mr. Jeff Wiener Mrs. Linda Wilkinson Mr. and Mrs. Skip Willbach Mrs. Hylda Wilson Mr. and Mrs. James Wiss Mr. and Mrs. Irwin Witt Mrs. Jacqueline Witte Ms. Carole Witten Dr. and Mrs. Daniel Wohl Dr. and Mrs. Eugene Wolchok Mr. and Mrs. Judah Wolf Ms. Irene Wolfe Mrs. Carole Wolpin Mr. and Mrs. Howard Wolpoff Mr. and Mrs. Frank Woodard Ms. Elaine Wright Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Yahre Mrs. Elsie Yellin Mr. Leon Yergin and Ms. Caryn Kenny Mr. and Mrs. Donald Young Dr. and Mrs. Larry Young Ms. Anita Zeldin Mr. Sandy Zimmerman Mrs. Barbara Zimmerman Mr. and Mrs. Barry Zisser

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

FEDERATION NEWS

Your Federation: Where the money goes On Sunday, Feb. 5, Federation volunteers will contact hundreds of the members of our community as part of Super and Thank You Sunday. We speak with more people that day than on any other day of the year. We need you to answer the phone and to consider giving even more than last year. Please take a look at the list below of our beneﬁciary agencies and recipients of funds from the regular campaign. We hope you will agree that a gift to the annual campaign makes a difference. American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee is the world’s leading Jewish humanitarian assistance organization impacting millions of lives in more than 70 countries today. JDC leverages a century’s experience confronting poverty and crisis around the world to save the world’s poorest Jews, to revitalize Jewish life, empower Israel’s future, and to develop tomorrow’s Jewish leaders and rescue victims of global emergencies. www.jdc.org The Anti-Defamation League was founded in 1913 “to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to all.” Now the nation’s premier civil rights/human relations agency, ADL ﬁghts anti-Semitism and all forms of bigotry, defends democratic ideals and protects civil rights for all. www.adl.org B’Nai Tzedek Program encourages and educates Bar and Bat Mitvah-age youth in the joys of tzedakah. ERUV of Jacksonville allows individuals and families choosing to observe Shabbat to have more access to and from synagogue. Florida Government Affairs Commission is a Jewish communities lobbying organization in Tallahassee.

Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, is a volunteer organization that inspires a passion for and commitment to its partnership with the land and people of Israel. It enhances the health of people worldwide through its support of medical care and research at the Hadassah Medical Organization in Jerusalem. Hadassah empowers its members and supporters, as well as youth in Israel and America through opportunities for personal growth, education, advocacy and Jewish continuity. www.hadassah. org. The Jewish Agency for Israel has been working to secure a vibrant Jewish future since 1929. JAFI was instrumental in founding and building the State of Israel and continues to serve as the main link between the Jewish state and Jewish communities everywhere. This global partnership has enabled JAFI to address the Jewish people’s greatest challenges in every generation. www.jewishagency.org Jewish Community Alliance is Jacksonville’s Jewish community center. The JCA strengthens Jewish life, serves as a common meeting ground and enhances the quality of life of the entire community. The JCA provides an unparalleled array of physical, recreational, educational, social and cultural programs for all ages in one conveniently located state-of-the-art facility. www.jcajax.org Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida was established to secure legacy gifts for our community. Through the establishment of endowment funds, individuals and families will ensure their interests will be sustained for generations to come. The Foundation works in collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and its family of agencies, Jewish day schools and local synagogues. www.jewishfoundationneﬂ.org

Jewish Education Loan Fund grants interest-free loans to Jewish students from Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia for post-secondary study at accredited institutions. JELF’s loans are last dollar — they supply the final funds that a student needs to attend school. These loans can be used for study at a college or university, graduate school or professional/vocational school that leads to a degree or certificate. www.jelf.org. Jewish Family & Community Services is a social service agency dedicated to helping people help themselves. JFCS serves the entire community through six core programs: child welfare, adoption, counseling, emergency financial assistance/food pantry, United Way’s Achievers for Life Dropout Prevention, and Jewish Services. Through the generosity of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville, JFCS provides a number of services specifically for the Jewish community. Those include: support for children with special needs, meal delivery, affordable transportation, care management services and medical advocacy for seniors, financial assistance, Holocaust survivor services, and The Jewish Healing Network. www.jfcsjax.org. The Jewish Council for Public Affairs serves as the representative voice of the organized American Jewish community in addressing the principal mandate of the Jewish community relations field: to safeguard the rights of Jews here and around the world; to dedicate ourselves to the safety and security of Israel; and to protect, preserve and promote a just American society jewishpublicaffairs.org. Joan Levin Gift of Israel Program was established to encourage teens to visit Israel by providing them with a $700 subsidy toward an accredited travel program including youth group trips,

Federation Family Missions, official synagogue missions, or trips arranged by organizations such as Hadassah/Young Judea and Birthright Israel. www.jewishjacksonville.org/israel/gift-of-israel. Martin J. Gottlieb Day School is the only K-8 Solomon Schechter Day school in North Florida. MJGDS offers a challenging dual track of general and Judaic studies. In first grade, our students spend a significant portion of their day in Hebrew language immersion, and by eighth grade graduate with two high-school level foreign language credits. MJGDS is accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools and is affiliated with the National Association of Independent Schools and the National Junior Honor Society. Small class size ensures students receive individualized learning and opportunities for academic, social, and spiritual growth. www. mjgds.org. National Funding Council divides funds among Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, Jewish Community Center Association, JESNA, Jewish Telegraphic Agency, National Conference on Soviet Jewry, National Federation of Just Communities, Jewish Council for Public Affairs, National Hillel. River Garden Senior Services is a high-quality not-forprofit mission driven community agency sponsored by the organized Jacksonville Jewish community. Programs include a variety of senior services for short- and long-term care including: skilled nursing and short stay rehabilitation, traditional long-term care, Alzheimer’s and memory care, adult day care, independent living apartments, geriatric assessment and case management, outpatient therapies, and licensed home care. www. rivergarden.org. Synagogues & Chabad which includes

Beth El – The Beaches Synagogue, Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple), Etz Chaim Synagogue, Jacksonville Jewish Center and all six area Chabads in Northeast Florida (Mandarin, Southside, Beaches, S. Johns, Clay and S. Augustine). Funds allocated to these entities go toward teenage education and programming. Taglit-Birthright Israel strives to strengthen Jewish identity, Jewish communities and solidarity with Israel by providing a 10-day trip to Israel for young Jewish people. Since its inception in 1999, Taglit-Birthright Israel has sent more than 400,000 Jewish young adults to Israel. They come from 66 countries, all 50 U.S. States and Canadian provinces, and from nearly 1,000 North American colleges and universities. www. birthrightisrael.com. Torah Academy of Jacksonville is North Florida’s Orthodox Jewish Day School for nursery through eighth grade, but Torah Academy is more than a school – it is a community and a family. To ensure excellence in academics, Torah Academy offers small classes with personalized attention from a dedicated faculty. Our engaging curriculum encompasses Judaic studies, math, science, language arts, science, history, art and physical education as well as providing opportunities for community service. Beyond the classroom, Torah Academy is always focused on the spiritual, emotional and social development of its students. www.torah-academy.com. UNF Jewish Students Union is a part of the interfaith community at the University of North Florida. The organization is student run allowing for peer-to-peer relationships to develop with fellow Jewish students as well as a way to foster relationships with the Jacksonville Jewish community. unfjsu.com.

Executive Director’s Message: Super Sunday is a great time to give

On Sunday, Feb. 5 our Federation will hold its annual Super Sunday phone-a-thon. This is the day during which we will personally engage with more members of the Jewish community than on any other day of the year. With that in mind, I want to encourage everyone to participate, by making a gift to the Federation’s annual campaign as it’s truly an opportunity to do something wonderful for fellow Jews in

our community and around the world. If you have given before, thank you, but please consider an increase, while continuing to support the efforts on behalf of our local and overseas agencies. If this will be the first time you give to the campaign, than we proudly welcome you as a valued member of our family of contributors. The dollars raised on this day each year help improve the lives of all the families in our vibrant community. The Jewish agencies, schools, synagogues in Jacksonville and our overseas partners are saving Jewish lives, adding dignity to them and helping to create a sense of Jewish identity in our children. But the assistance needed spans the generations as there are more than 80 holocaust survivors living in Northeast Florida. Sadly, more than half of those most cherished members of our community are living at or below poverty level. Overseas, our dollars go to helping vulnerable populations of Jews such as the hundreds of thousands of elderly men and women living in the former Soviet Union and barely able to make

ends meet utilizing their pension funds alone. Our annual campaign helps to keep these precious souls alive, but of course these are just a few examples of how the dollars you donate on Super Sunday go to helping those most in need. So when our volunteers give you a ring Sunday, Feb. 5, please answer that call and consider making a generous donation to help improve the lives of your fellow Jews here in Northeast Florida and around the world. Those who want to contribute to the annual campaign in advance of Super Sunday can do so by calling 904448-5000 and telling us what you want to give this year. Those who want to give of their time on Super Sunday and volunteer to make calls can contact Ariel Frechtman at 904-448-5000, ext. 1208 or by emailing her at arielf@jewishjacksonville.org.

Alan Margolies Federation Executive Director

Volunteers of all ages get in the act to help raise funds for the community on Super Sunday, which this year falls on Feb. 5th, so be sure to answer the call and be as generous as possible when the phone rings

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

www.jewishjacksonville.org

federation news

Jacksonville Jewish educator takes an emotional and inspiring trip to Israel to meet with her peers BY LINDA GINSBURG

Educators2Gether Trip Participant

Local educator Linda Ginsburg recently returned from an Israel Partnership Program, Educators2Gether, sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. Jacksonville’s sister city in Israel is Hadera, a small, still somewhat rural town north of Tel Aviv. The purpose of the trip was to create an infrastructure for educators as a community and to create a strong partnership between the Hadera-Eiron region and Southeastern cities in the U.S., including Jacksonville. Some of the highlights of the trip included shadowing an Israeli elementary school teacher, staying with an Israeli educator’s family, visiting Neve Michael, a children’s village for abused children and spending a stirring day at the Herzel Museum in Jerusa-

lem. Ginsburg along with one other member of the Jacksonville delegation observed the lighting of the Hanukiah at the Western Wall before a walk through the Jewish Quarter. Ginsburg teaches Hebrew to grades 1 – 4 and found that a discussion led by renowned teacher Avraham Infeld, who talked about the five-legged table, a metaphor for a strong and stable Jewish identity. There are five core values; memory, family, the covenant at Mt. Sinai, Israel, and the Hebrew language. Ginsburg utilizes ‘Hebrew through movement’, a language acquisition strategy in which students learn Hebrew by hearing and responding to Hebrew commands. It starts with a foundation in modern Hebrew, but has as its goal making the prayers in the siddur, as well as synagogue and Jewish vocabulary, more easily accessible to those with limited learning time. Infeld’s belief is that if we internalize three of the five

Linda Ginsburg and her host on a cold day in Jerusalem (left) and then at the Mahane Yehuda Market (right)

legs, Jews won’t be uniform, but we will be unified. The school that the Jacksonville educator visited was observing Jewish Peoplehood Day, which celebrates students’ Jewish identity as well as their membership in the worldwide community of the Jewish People. The Children’s village was also an emotional experience as the village does a heroic job of providing refuge for the children

and a loving home for the rest of their lives. The Herzl museum also provided a thought-provoking look into the Jewish world according to Herzl’s insights and how very important he was to the Jewish people, giving much of himself to bring about the State of Israel. Making connections with Israeli and American teachers was perhaps one of the most important and impactful components

of the trip, and being a part of her host family’s observance of Shabbat, and talking to the teenage children about their jobs, their ambitions, how they see Israel’s future, provided an invaluable upclose and personal window into an Israeli viewpoint. It surely was an emotional trip in which the Jacksonville Jewish educator was transformed and inspired, reigniting her connection to Israel.

March Jewish Java gives Community Shlicha Dana Marmari people chance to go on paints complete portrait of Israel at a Cuban adventure in Jewish Java March with The Temple’s BY ISABEL BALOTIN Goldie Lansky Shalom Jacksonville Director shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org

By Jewish Federation of Jacksonville

The Federation’s Shalom Jacksonville Division will present a very special Jewish Java next month as on Wednesday, March 1 at 9 a.m., Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) Executive Director Goldie Lansky will share her many exciting and enlightening experiences during her recent humanitarian mission to Cuba. While there are many daily challenges the Jewish community faces, such as no rabbi and one kosher butcher, they manage to teach the younger generation many traditions and maintain the synagogue as the center of Jewish life and support. Lansky’s group visited synagogues, attended worship services, talked with members of the community and visited the Jewish cemetery. “To be Cuban and Jewish is to be twice survivors,” said Maritza Corrales, a Cuban historian who lives in Havana and is the author of ‘The Chosen Island: Jews of Cuba’. Presently there is a small Jewish presence of just 1,200 Jews living in Cuba, which is a stark contrast to the 15,000 who lived throughout the island before Fidel Castro came into power. Yet, this small band of Jews has managed to survive and maintain many Jewish traditions and customs. For many years, Jewish groups have organized humanitarian missions to Cuba, but they had to bypass United States restrictions on tourism to Cuba by requiring a full schedule of religious and humanitarian activities. Recently, President Obama announced that Americans could visit Cuba as tourists, so this was Lansky’s opportunity to check ‘Cuba’, off her bucket list. However, she decided that if she were to go, she wanted to be there on a humanitarian mission, not as a tourist. Her stories promise to be heartwarming, emotional and hopeful, so feel free to invite your friends to this unique event. Shalom Jacksonville’s Jewish Java meets the first Wednesday of every month at River Garden Senior Services. Jewish newcomers and locals are invited to meet each other and forge friendships in this very informal and friendly atmosphere. An RSVP is a must by Feb. 26 to Isabel Balotin at 904-4485000, ext. 1206 or via shalomjax@ jewishjacksonville.org.

Goldie Lansky

Attendees at the January Jewish Java were treated to a unique and insightful talk about Israel and daily life there by Jacksonville’s community Shlicha (Israeli Emissary), Dana Marmari. Marmari, a Kfar Saba native handed out a pop quiz to the audience on a range of subjects including the ethnic make-up of the land in addition to education and technology. Marmari has been in her position since the late summer and gave the Jewish community in attendance a first-hand account of what

Marmari (center) poses with River Garden and Federation employees

it’s like to live in the Land of Milk and Honey through photos, videos and stories. Like always, every Java begins with a delicious bagel breakfast followed by an interesting speaker and is a program is designed for

Jewish newcomers and locals to meet, schmooze and forge friendships while learning more about our vibrant Jacksonville Jewish community. There is no charge for this program, however, reservations are a must.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

federation news

Strangers become fast friends for Jacksonville educator on a recent Partnership trip to Israel

BY LEAH PALESTRANT

Educators2Gether Trip Participant

Having made ‘the South’ my chosen home since leaving Ohio after college, I have been exposed to hospitality at its finest. However, everything from my welcoming congregation to the selfless friends I have surrounded myself with don’t hold a (Chanukah) candle to the Israeli hospitality I experienced on my recent trip.

As a participant in Partnership 2Gether Hadera Eiron-SE Consortium, I was fortunate enough to spend the first half of our journey with a host family in the region. This being my third trip to Israel, the experience of not only sleeping at host family’s house, but quickly becoming a part of an Israeli family, was a special aspect of this Educator Delegation program that I have never experienced before. From the initial e-mail introductions, Naomi was worried that her English wouldn’t

be up to par to accommodate me. However, upon the first hug, we both realized that we wouldn’t let language prevent us from forming a lifelong partnership. Speaking to our shared experience as educators, we quickly learned how united and similar we both are in our common values and work ethic. The Shabbat tradition in the Zilberstein family involves Friday night dinner together (same as my family’s tradition growing up) and taking a car trip around the country on Saturday. So, on the day before Christmas, we traveled to Nazareth where both Naomi

and her husband grew up. There, we met up with a local friend of Naomi’s who teaches Arab students, the two of them have received awards for their crosscultural work of their classes to expose their students to a diversity of people from a young age. While many might pay for a tour through some of the holiest cities in the world, this unique experience had us stopping in the local barber shop, getting stuck behind a parade, and eating the most delicious, indescribable dessert. In addition to being a part of her family, I also got to shadow Naomi in her professional life.

As a teacher of seventh, eighth and ninth grade students and a manager of other Math teachers, I was yet again welcomed with open arms. I am most excited about finding ways for my students here in Jacksonville to interact and collaborate with her students across the pond. While my Facebook statuses from December were of course filled with pictures from the Western Wall and the beautiful lights of Chanukah, it’s the small moments with my new found family of educators from the Southeast and Israel that will live on in my internal news feed for years to come.

Society of Healers holds ethical discussion event at the MOSH BY ERIN COHEN

Society of Healers Director erinc@jewishjacksonville.org

Photos by Larry Tallis In mid-January, the Federation Society of Healers gathered at the Museum of Science and History for a interactive panel discussion titled, ‘Medical Ethics Today: Lessons Learned from Anne Frank and the Holocaust’. The program was done in collaboration with the Duval County Medical Society Foundation and doctors were able to earn two CMEs for attending the program. The insightful and contempla-

tive panel was comprised of Dr. Guy Benrubi, Professor, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville; Dr. Yank Coble, Past-President, American Medical Association & World Medical Association and Dr. Theo Prousis, UNF Professor; moderated by Dr. Todd Sack, President, Duval County Medical Society Foundation. Guests had the opportunity before and after the program to view two exhibits: Anne Frank: A History for Today & Remembering the Holocaust in Art. For more information about the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville’s Society of Healers, contact Erin Cohen at 448-5000 x1205 or erinc@ jewishjacksonville.org.

Paul Metlin, Jill Metlin, Dr. Larry Kantor

Guy Benrubi and Leslie Held

The exhibit brought about stirring discussions among the attendees

Friends from afar break bread

JCA teachers Karen Morse and Megan Ferricane join Federation Communications Director Matt Franzblau in catching a bite with former P2G teen exchange participant Aaron Abel, who attends Hebrew Univ. in Jerusalem

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

sports

Jewish major leaguers representing Israel in World Baseball Classic to visit country By Jewish Telegraph Agency (JTA)

Ten current and former Jewish major leaguers representing Israel in the World Baseball Classic will visit the country in preparation for the tournament. The players and staff will practice on baseball fields in Israel and meet with Israel Association of Baseball players. They also will visit Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and its holy sites, an Israeli Air Force base, Masada and the Dead Sea. World Baseball Classic rules state that players who are eligible for citizenship of a country may play on the country’s team. This will be the first time that American Jewish baseball players will represent Israel in a world championship. The World Baseball Classic is scheduled for March in Seoul, South Korea. “The team is clearly the most impressive Jewish baseball team ever assembled, and we are very proud that they will be representing our country at the WBC,” Peter Kurz, president of the Israel Association of Baseball, said in a statement. “The trip will be an excellent opportunity for them to learn about Israel and meet the teams and players in Israel who

will be supporting them at the WBC.” The visiting players are Ike Davis, formerly of the New York Mets and other teams; Ty Kelly of the Mets; Josh Zeid of the Mets organization; Ryan Lavarnway of the Oakland Athletics; Sam Fuld of the Athletics organization; Cody Decker of the Boston Red Sox organization; Jon Moscot of the Cincinnati Reds; Corey Baker of the St. Louis Cardinals organization; Jeremy Bleich of the Philadelphia Phillies organization, and Gabe Kapler, the director of player development for the Los Angeles Dodgers. The players will visit Israel with their wives, parents and children. The trip’s co-sponsors include JNF Project Baseball and Jeff Aeder, founder of the Jewish Baseball Museum.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

lifecycles B’nai Mitzvah

Joseph Jacob Morris, son of Chip and Karen Morris, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of his Bar Mitzvah, Saturday, Feb. 18th at Beth El The Beaches Synagogue. Sharing in the simcha will be his sister, Sarah in addition to many other friends and family. Morris is in seventh grade at Kernan Middle School, where he is active on Student Council, involved in Math Club, Joseph Morris Scholarbowl and plays percussion in the school band. He enjoys playing baseball and golf and is an avid reader. For his mitzvah project, Morris is collecting items that first-time homeowners could use to support the Beaches Habitat, an agency his grandfather volunteers at, to build quality affordable homes for families in need. He will present these items at the home dedications this spring. Bailey Ginsberg, son of Marc and Jill Ginsberg, along with his sister, Madison Ginsberg, were called to the Torah on the occasion of their B’nei Mitzvah, Saturday, Dec. 10th at Congregation Mickve Israel in Savannah, Ga.

Madison and Bailey Ginsberg

Sharing in the simcha was their grandmother, Linda Gartner Ginsberg, of Atlantic Beach, as well as their aunt, Dr. Leslie Platock and her family from Atlantic Beach, Florida, in addition to their aunt, Tracy Bever and her family from Odessa, Fla., along with many friends and family members from Jacksonville. Both Bailey (eighth grade) and Madison (seventh grade) attend Hancock Day School in Savannah. Madison started a fund to raise money for soccer scholarships as one of her projects, while Bailey has volunteered as an aid helping organize activities at summer day camp. Both Bailey and Madison enjoy sports and time spent with their parents boating and fishing. Their grandmother is a member of the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Benjamin Davis, son of Rich and Nancy Davis, will be called to the Torah, Saturday, Feb. 4th on the occasion of his Bar Mitzvah at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Also celebrating the simcha is Benjamin’s sister, Lily Davis, in addition to grandparents, Leo and Joanne Davis. Benjamin is a seventh-grade student at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, following in the footsteps of his father and many aunts, uncles, and cousins who are alumni of the school. Benjamin Davis Benjamin recently received an Honorable Mention in the school’s science

fair, and went on to compete at the regional level. The BarMitzvah’s interests include outer space, architecture, and travel, and his mitzvah project is collecting donations for the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s Camp Ramah scholarship fund. Along with his sister, Benjamin attended Camp Ramah Darom last summer, and was inspired by the transformational experience to help as many other kids as possible have the same opportunity.

Sympathies

… To the family Stuart Cohen, who passed away Friday, Dec. 16th. He is survived by his wife Susan, children Miriam, Chani, Shira and Dassie, brothers Andy (Cindy) and Lenny, mother Sheila, in addition to 12 grandchildren. Cohen was laid to rest in Israel and the family requests that contributions in memory of him be made to Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) .… To the family of longtime Jacksonville Jewish Center member Louis Fraden, who passed away, Monday, Dec. 26th at the age of 97. He is survived by his children Andrew Fraden, Zelda Greenberg, William Fraden and Shelley Alterman (Ed), six grandchildren and one great grandson, in addition to his sister Rose Levin, and brothers, Abe Fraden (Ruth) and Bernie Fraden (Judy). A graveside service took place Dec. 28th, at the New Center Cemetery in Jacksonville. Contributions in Louis Fraden’s memory can be made to the Jacksonville Jewish Center. … To the family of Sidney Caplan, who passed away Sunday, Jan. 8th at the age of 78. He is survived by his children Laurence, Jeff, Harrison, Stacy (Ron) Gannon and grandchildren Evan, Ariel and Allie Caplan. Funeral services were held Jan. 10th in New Jersey, where Shivah also took place. The family requests that donations in memory of Sidney Caplan be made to Birthright Israel Foundation. … To the family of Jacksonville Jewish Center member Iris Young, who passed away Tuesday, Jan. 9th. She is survived by her husband Charles, their son Joseph (Laura) Young, granddaughter Lucy, sister Nina (Doug) Shine, in addition to many nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives, caregivers and friends. A graveside service took place Jan. 13th, at Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery in Jacksonville. Contributions in Iris Young’s memory can be made to Jewish Family & Community Services or the Jacksonville Jewish Center. … To the family of Jacksonville Jewish Center member Elias ‘Eli’ Rosenblatt, who passed away Thursday, Jan. 12th. He is survived by his son Michael as well as many extended relatives and friends. A graveside service was held Jan. 15th at the Ponte Vedra Valley Cemetery and Shiva Minyan was held the same day at Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue. … To the family of Jacksonville Jewish Center member Pearl Zadoff, who passed away Sunday, Jan. 15th at the age of 92. She is survived by her children Natalie (Ronald) Pepper, Michael (Rita) Zadoff, and Dr. Andrew (Kathryn) Zadoff, grandchildren Michael (Mindy) Gold, Ann Zadoff, and Jonathan (Jaime) Zadoff, in addition to three great-grandchildren, her sister Rose Glickstein and cousins Helen & Edward Siegel. A graveside service was held Jan. 18th at the New Center Cemetery in Jacksonville. Contributions in Pearl Zadoff’s memory can be made to the Jacksonville Jewish Center. … To the family of Dr. Norman Shiff, who passed away Tues-

day, Jan. 17th. He is survived by his wife Rosella Shiff, children, Deb (Michael) Kuhr, Janet Kennedy, grandchildren Josh (Allie Jacobs), Jonathan (Stephanie Scibilia), Zak Kuhr, Karie (Andrew Landgraf) and Emily Kennedy. A memorial service was held in Mt. Pleasant, S.C. The family requests that donations in memory of Dr. Shiff be made to the Temple’s Religious School Special Projects Fund. … To the family of Roza Kleyner, who passed away Tuesday, Jan. 17th at the age of 89. She is survived by her daughter Rita (Peter) Vugman and grandchildren Alex (Galina) Greta (John). Funeral services were held Jan. 19th at the Etz Chaim Cemetery at Arlington Park in Jacksonville with Rabbi Yaakov Fisch ofﬁciating. … To the family of Ruth Mack Zidell, who passed away Sunday, Jan. 22nd at the age of 92. She is survived by her children, Gabrielle Mack Brie, Paulina Mack (Gregory) Kriebel, Harvey Mack, and Benjamin (Elizabeth) Mack, in addition to ﬁve grandchildren, two greatgrandchildren and a great-greatgrandchild. A graveside funeral service took place Jan. 27th at the New Center Cemetery in Jacksonville. Contributions in Ruth Mack Zidell’s memory can be made to Amigos de Animales in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, c/o Robert Sylvor, 210 W. 78th St. Suite #9A, New York, NY 10024-6619.

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Maid Services Available Housecleaning, laundry and cooking with reasonable rates. By appointment only. Call 904387-9293 or leave a message. Ask for Lidia. To submit an item for life cycles, please email it to jjn@ jewishjacksonville.org. Due date is the 6th of the month. For guidelines of how to write Bar/Bat Mitzvah, wedding or obituary announcements, go to jewishjacksonville.org/news under “Share your news.”

Two area Chabads to hold six-week course on solving dilemmas with the Talmud By Clay County Chabad

A new-six week course entitled ‘The Dilemma’ will be taught by two area Chabads aimed at tackling modern conundrums with Talmudic debates and solving them with your solutions. This course will be taught at both Clay County and Chabad at the Beaches locations is accredited for continuing legal education. The Talmud is a compilation of Jewish legal and moral scholarship, transmitted, debated, and preserved through the ages. It is the foundation of Judaism’s principled jurisprudence in constructing a just and loving world. The Talmud positions itself to help us solve the dilemmas that arise from conflicting legal and moral claims. This is because the Talmud seeks not only the right answers, but also the right questions. The Talmud rejects the incoherent and embraces the coherent while still standing humbly in the presence of mystery. It is willing to suppose, imagine, and test the boundaries of the intellect. Scenarios that will be discussed are based on current and sometimes controversial events, as fascinatingly, the Talmud offers incredibly deep refreshingly new ideas. An example of this notion was on a hot day last July, when a group of young men on Chicago’s West Side broke into a

pickup truck and stole a laptop. Unbeknownst to the thieves, there was a dog in the car that might have died in the heat had they not broken the window. The car was parked for about an hour before the owner’s return, long enough to cause heatstroke to the dog. All would agree that the laptop must be returned, but should the thieves be prosecuted for breaking the window? Should they compensate the owner for the broken window? Should they be rewarded for saving the dog? Should criminals be rewarded or at least not punished for malicious actions that produce unintended positive results for the victim? Questions like these will be addressed because in this course, you’re in the driver’s seat to discuss and debate original Talmudic texts and formulate convincing arguments to solve these and other fascinating intellectual puzzles. “This course presents intellectually stimulating ideas, a fresh modern perspective based on ancient yet surprisingly relevant ideas,” said Rabbi Nochum Kurinsky of Chabad at the Beaches, the local JLI Instructor in Ponte Vedra. “In the course, participants will have a chance

debate current ideas based on some fascinating scenarios.” In Clay County, the course will be taught in two convenient locations, one in Clay and another in Duval. The Clay classes will be on six consecutive Sundays, starting Jan. 29 from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Fleming Island Public Library, while the Duval chapter will be taught on six consecutive Tuesdays, starting Jan. 31 from 7:30 – 9 p.m. at Tehila’s Pilates (1250 McDuff Ave S.) The fee for the course is $89, including the textbook and there is a 10-percent off per student discount with a minimum of two signups. More information can be obtained by going to jewishclaycounty.com or sending an email to info@jewishclaycounty.com. At the Beaches, the class will be taught on six consecutive Wednesdays beginning Feb. 1st from 7 – 8:30 p.m., at the Aaron and Blanche Scharf Chabad Center in Ponte Vedra. The cost for the course is $79 and the textbook is $20. Go to chabadbeaches.com/ jli for more information or send an email to rabbi@chabadbeaches. com. Members of the local media are invited to observe a class and/ or conduct an advance interview with the local course facilitator. Interviews with national facilitators and course creators also may be scheduled, upon request. Contact Rabbi Nochum Kurinsky with an email at rabbi@chabadbeaches. com, or call 904-543-9301 for additional media-related info.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

JEWISH COMMUNITY alliance

February Member Fitness at the JCA ﬁlled with numerous activities BY IMAN BYFIELD

Jewish Community Alliance

February is Heart Health Month and the JCA has several member programs to support healthy cardio practices. From February 2–23, join exercise physiologist and JCA personal trainer Jeff May and find your individual cardio workout zone in ‘Get Your Heart Zone’. ‘Everything

Go’, on Sundays, Feb. 12 – Mar. 5, keeps your body guessing and your mind learning using various workout tools for an interesting workout. Mature adults can build confidence and learn skills to help reduce falls in ‘Stepping On’, Tuesdays, Feb. 21 – Apr. 4. This workshop is for participants 65 years or older. If you want to look like an athlete, ‘Battle the Rope’ will melt fat and get your heart pumping, as from Feb. 22 – Mar. 15, this class

teaches the fundamentals of battle roping using multiple muscle groups for a full body workout. ‘Body Blasting Boxing’ with JCA trainer Ramesses Khalfani will help boost energy, sculpt muscle and blast fat on Mondays, Feb. 27 – Mar. 20. Join the JCA to keep your New Year fitness goals on track. For information on these and other JCA Fitness and Wellness programs, contact Eiffel Gilyana at 904-730-2100, ext. 324 or visit jcajax.org/fitness.

JCA’s annual fundraiser goes ‘urban chic’ with Bright Lights Big City on February 25 By Jewish Community Alliance

Wear your ‘urban chic’ best to this year’s annual JCA fundraiser on Saturday, Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m. The event, ‘Bright Lights, Big City’, brings the sophistication of uptown combined with a hip downtown vibe to our community. Guests will delight in food, drink and entertainment that will transport you out of Jacksonville and into the heart of metropolis. As usual, the biggest question on people’s minds is ‘what should I wear?’ Urban chic means any-

Miller, Michael Miller, Monique Miller, Debbie Parker, Kim Robbins, Jeanine Rogozinski, Ellen Rosner, Sherrie Saag, Ryan Saltz, Shari Saye, Fran Selevan, Rebekah Selevan, Allison Korman Shelton, Kimberly Sisisky, Linda Stein, Randee Steinberg, Michele Steinfeld, Rochelle Stoddard, Alison Trager, Brent Trager, Jeff Wiener, Stacie Wilf, David Wolf and Chase Zimmerman. The JCA’s annual fundraiser benefits many JCA programs, including senior activities, preschool, after-school care and camp tuitions for families in need. Last year, the JCA awarded more than $330,000 in scholar-

thing from your black cocktail dress to your night club best. Suits are not necessary for men, but please remember that you’re not going to a tailgate either! The JCA fundraiser is always fun and festive, so get ready to party at this night out on the town. The honorary chairs of this year’s event are the Block Family and the fabulous committee includes Sharon Bloom, Nicole Brown, Mary Edwards, Sue Elinoff, Adam Frisch, Pat Frisch, Sierra Frisch, Allison Jacobs, Jane Levine, Jan Lipsky, Glenn

ships for children, families and senior adults. Sponsorships are crucial to the success of this event, and tickets are on sale at jcajax.org/bigcity. For more information about ‘Bright Lights, Big City’, please contact Lior Spring at 904-730-2100 ext. 318 or at lior.spring@jcajax.org.

Registration for JCA’s summer camp is now open BY IMAN BYFIELD

Jewish Community Alliance

A meaningful summer camp experience can have many positive effects on the social development of your child, including increased community building skills and feelings of connectedness. For parents looking for an enriching summer camp experience for their children, the Jewish Community Alliance has opened registration for the 2017 summer camp season. JCA Summer Camp offers programs for children ages 2-12, and the nationally accredited program provides participants a safe, enriching summer experience in a structured Jewish environment. Summer camp at the JCA offers a wide range of sports and activities, including swimming,

arts and crafts, theatre and special programming for older teens. Staff and counselors work to ensure a positive, fun environment and a memorable summer for campers and families. The 2017 JCA Summer Camps are Camp Gan Yeladim (ages 2-4 by Sept 1, 2017), KinderCamp (entering Kindergarten), Camp Sabra (entering grades 1-2), Camp Habonim (entering grades 3-6), Stage Door Theatre Camp (entering grades 1-9), Adventure Days (entering grades K-8), and J-Teens (entering grades 10-12). JCA Summer Camp meets for four, two-week sessions, June 12-23, June 26 - July 7, July 10-21, and July 24 – Aug. 4. Pre and Post Adventure Day camps are also available. These weeklong programs are offered before the regular summer camp sessions, from May 25 - June 2 and June 5- 9, and

after from Aug. 8-11. For information or to register for JCA Summer Camp, visit jcajax.org/camp

or call 904-730-2100, ext. 228. Those who register by March 10, will receive a special gift.

Jewish community alliance HAPPENINGS February 2017 Sh’vat/Adar 5777 For more information or to register for programs at the JCA, call 904-730-2100 or visit our official website at www.jcajax.org.

Vandroff Art Gallery

From Feb. 2 – Mar. 1, UNF Art Guild student and alumni fine art exhibit ‘Aline’ will be featured. The reception for this exhibit is Feb. 5 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Gene Kelly Film Fest

Enjoy a double feature of ‘Singing in the Rain’ and ‘Cover Girl’, Wednesday, Feb. 22 beginning at 12 p.m.

Shashuka Club

Israeli Schlicha Dana Marmari leads this club in how to learn to make this delicious, Israeli breakfast staple, Sunday, Feb. 19 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. The fee is $15 and $10 for JCA valued members.

Family Hamentashen Bake

For Purim, join the JCA and Etz Chaim to bake these festival treats and enjoy games and crafts for children, Sunday, Feb. 26 from 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. Reservations are required by Feb. 23 and this is free and open to the community.

Organic Vegetable Gardening and Composting

Join Mary Puckett and Evie Pankok from the Duval County Extension Office for the two-part series on Feb. 15 and 22 from 1 – 3 p.m. Each part is $5 and JCA valued members are free.

2017 Maccabi Games

The JCA is organizing a delegation for the 2017 JCC Maccabi Games to be held in Birmingham, Ala., from July 30 – Aug. 4. Jewish teens ages 13–16 are invited to tryout, so contact Coach Rio at 904-730-2100, ext. 250 for information.

JCA Aquatics Lessons

The JCA offers Learn-to-Swim programs and JCA School Year and JV swim teams for youth. Contact JCA Aquatics Manager Josie Martin at 904-730-2100, ext. 240 for details.

JCA Tennis

The JCA has tennis clinics and private lessons for youth and adults. For more information, contact Reggie at 904-730-2100, ext. 317.

Drink and Draw

Bring your sketchbook for an inspiring, social evening and seasonal cocktail, Monday, Feb. 27 from 7 – 9 p.m. Registration is required by Feb. 24 and the fee is $12 and $8 for JCA valued members.

Beginner Youth Guitar Lessons On Thursdays, Feb 16 – Mar. 9, learn the basics of singing, guitar, music theory and relevant

techniques while having fun. The fee is $40 and $25 for JCA valued members. Call 904-730-2100, ext. 271 for details.

JAway Tu B’Shevat Hike and Seder

In honor of Jewish Arbor Day, join us in Mandarin Park to appreciate nature and the outdoors, Sunday, Feb. 12 from 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. This is free and open to the community.

Pajama Havdallah

Families with young children arrive in your pajamas and join us to say goodbye to Shabbat, Saturday, Feb. 4 from 4 – 7 p.m. Reservations are required by Feb. 3 and the fee is $15 and $10 for JCA valued members.

JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE 2016-17 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $196,000

Tu B’Shavat Celebration Seder

Join Morah Karen in a fun-filled birthday of the trees celebration, Friday, Feb. 10 from 1:30 – 2:15 p.m. The fee is $15 and $10 for JCA valued members.

Stake Out

Retired detective Brian Daley shares stories from his years with the DEA, Tuesday, Feb. 28 from 7 – 8:30 p.m. The fee is $5; JCA valued members are free.

Flag Football

The JCA offers flag football lessons for youth and adults beginning in March and April. For information, contact Mike at 904-730-2100, ext. 254.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

JEWISH FAMILY and COMMUNITY SERVICES Briefs

JFCS’ new building on Baycenter Rd. is taking shape

PJ Library

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 Whitney Kuvin at 904-3945724.

JFCS staff was treated to a holiday luncheon and building update, courtesy of the JFCS board of directors

The new building will allow JFCS to increase its reach in offering comprehensive social services to families and individuals at every stage of life

Holiday gift giving organizers honored at JFCS’ annual holiday luncheon Meals4You

JFCS in partnership with River Garden is pleased to bring you our meal program, Meals4You, from our kitchen to yours. Meals are delicious, nutritious, convenient and delivered right to your door. Jewish dietary laws are observed. Call Whitney for more information at 904-394-5724.

Call2Go JFCS is now using a Lyft product called Concierge, which allows JFCS to arrange rides on behalf of its clients, including the ability to schedule rides up to a week in advance. Lyft has also partnered with GreatCall, a senior focused cell phone company, which will help seniors use Lyft without having to navigate the smart phone app. Anyone using a Jitterbug phone can now simply press ‘0’ and arrange a ride with the company. To learn more or schedule rides, please call Whitney Kuvin at 904-6609268.

Jewish Healing Network

Become a Jewish Healing Network Volunteer at JFCS and help us fulfill the mitzvah of Bikkur Cholim. Volunteers are needed to make weekly visits or phone calls to a senior or deliver food to those who cannot get out. For more information, please call Gail at 904394-5723.

By Jewish Family & Community Services

The final numbers are in and the holiday gift giving program provided gifts to a total of 1,200 children and 81 seniors in 2016. A huge thank you goes out to the wonderful volunteers and donors who contributed to the success of this most important program. Here are a few comments from those involved in the initiave. “Working with JFCS has always been something I feel good about. This year, I worked on the holiday gift giving program to provide gifts for kids and seniors in the Jacksonville community who might have otherwise gone without them. From shopping, to sorting and finally distributing these gifts, it was the most fulfilling giving experience I have had the opportunity to be involved with.” - Sheri Trager Weiss, Holiday Gift Giving Program volunteer

Holiday gifts ﬁlled the Parker-Wilf Board Room at JFCS

to know that we took part in giving people a warm holiday season and we are both looking forward Linda Singer of the Nocatee based to next year!” - Donna O’Steen and Martha Shalom Club organizes their Lawson, JFCS various contributed gifts

“Working on the holiday program was enlightening as we got to see a lot of excited and happy children and seniors. It was gratifying

“Jula and I had the pleasure of delivering holiday gifts to our clients because each and every client was so touched by the gifts

they received. One of our clients got a new set of pots and pans and she just moved to Jacksonville and had nothing in her apartment. When I gave her the gift, she started to cry, as she could not believe the generosity of her donor. The next time I visited her, she was happily cooking corn beef in her new pots, which was her grandmother’s recipe! -Hilary Rotenberg and Jula Shkurti

JFCS holds Iris Young in its heart after the death of longtime former executive director By Jewish Family & Community Services

JFCS is forever indebted to amazing leader, Iris Young, who served as Executive Director of Jewish Family & Community Services from 1984–2011. Young passed away this past Jan. 10th at the age of 63. She will best remembered for guiding the agency during its tremendous growth from just a few employees

in 33 years ago to nearly 100 in the earlier part of this decade. She worked tirelessly to form collaborative alliances across Northeast Florida by establishing programs that help stabilize and empower families in crisis and the community is forever a better place because of Iris’s vision and leadership. “Iris was an amazing woman as she dedicated 38 years to JFCS and the community in which it serves and was the Executive

Director for 27 of those years,” current agency executive director Colleen Rodriguez remembers of her predecessor. “Iris never let her challenges hold her back because she was fearless, and always ready to be the ‘first out of the gate’ with a new project.” Young will be greatly missed as her legacy will live on for generations. Her family requests that donations in her memory be made to Jewish Family and Community Services.

Iris Young, JFCS Executive Director from 1984-2011

PJ Library will hold ‘Socks, Songs and Stories’ event at River Garden Senior Services Sunday, February, 19th By Jewish Family & Community Services

Children ages six months to eight years old are invited to spend the morning with residents at River Garden Senior Services, Sunday, Feb. 19th at

10:30 a.m., for a story time and craft session for the residents. A special guest will be there to lead everyone in songs as well, so please RSVP to Whitney Kuvin at wkuvin@jfcsjax.org by Feb. 12th, if you are planning to come.

JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES 2016-17 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $279,000

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA What can I do? How does a Meet the JCF’s Interim Exec. Director, young donor start funding Laura C. Thompson, Esq. an endowment MONEY MATTERS BY LAURA C. THOMPSON Interim Executive Director

If you have just graduated college or are beginning your career, it can be intimidating to think about how you are going to make a difference in the Jacksonville community. Whether you want to support your Temple, your alma mater, or other local nonprofit organizations, trying to begin your philanthropic journey often seems overwhelming. Questions may swirl in your head such as, ‘Where do I start?’, ‘How am I able to make a difference when I have limited resources?’, and ‘What organizations need my help the most?’ At the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida (JCF), we want to make it easy for young donors to come up with a strategy to best help our community at any giving level. Many young donors assume that they will need to wait until they have significant assets (cash, property, etc.) before entering the world of charitable giving. However, this is not the case, because if your employer offers you a life insurance policy, you may already have the ability to start an endowment fund. The first step in this process is to determine what type of fund you want to establish based on the capital you have available to invest.For most philanthropists, this entails looking at what assets you have now and what assets you will have in the future. There are a variety of funds that are available through the JCF. As young donors, an endowment fund is often the best choice because it may be established without an immediate cash donation. An endowment fund is an investment fund established by a foundation that makes consistent withdrawals from invested capital. The capital in endowment funds, often used by [nonprofit and religious organizations] is generally utilized for specific needs or to further a company’s operating process. Using a life insurance policy to establish an endowment fund’s capital is often appealing to donors because it’s a flexible, cost-effective, and in many cases tax-advantaged way to make a major gift that will benefit the nonprofit institution. Though the investment capital will not be available to the nonprofit immediately, once the funds from your life insurance policy become accessible, the JCF will begin investing those funds in a manner intended to grow the value of the initial investment.

Jewish Community Foundantion of NE.

By Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida

Laura C. Thompson, Esq. was recently announced as the Interim Executive Director for the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida. She is presently finishing a Masters Degree in Nonprofit Management after working as a litigation attorney for the past nine years in the fields of criminal defense and family law. Thompson has dedicated countless hours as a volunteer and board member for multiple nonprofit organizations throughout Florida. Her primary experience in her nonprofit career thus far has centered on grant management and reporting, budget planning and analysis, fund raising, reorganization, and the development of policies and procedures.

Each year, the proceeds from the invested capital may then be used to fund one or many organizations. Once you have decided to use your life insurance policy to begin an endowment fund, the next step is to determine what organizations you want to benefit. Endowment funds may be either restricted endowments or unrestricted endowments. The funds of the unrestricted variety may be used in any way the recipient chooses. Restricted endowment revenue may have limitations put in place by the donor to serve a specific purpose. You will choose what restrictions (if any) you would like placed on your endowment, such as designating the funds for a specific organization, or further designating funds for a specific purpose within the organization. A common example is a university scholarship that is restricted to students pursuing a career in a certain field, but other examples specific to our community include designating the funds to assist with adult education at the Jacksonville Jewish Community Alliance (JCA), to assist with the acquisition of new art pieces for MOCA (The Museum of Contemporary Art), or to provide for the operating costs of a specific Chabad. Finally, the name of an endowment fund is often important to many donors. Though many endowment funds are named after the donor, you also have the option of naming your fund in a host of rGEN Director Ariel Frechtman different ways. Some choose to name their fund based on the work the nonprofit will be doing or based BY LAURA C. THOMPSON on the purpose of the fund. Others Interim Executive Director choose to name their fund after a family member or relative and the When they begin considering JCF is here to help you narrow long-term giving options, not every down your choices and decide how young professional knows exactly best to represent your fund through where their philanthropic journey its name. will take them. Oftentimes young Would you like to begin helping donors think about what may be your community? Start by setting done now, rather than thinking an appointment with the JCF to about how to sustain local and review your options. We are here international organizations in the to help you decide what type of future. When Ariel Frechtman fund best suits your needs, what decided that she wanted to make assets are needed, and who will a difference, she knew exactly benefit from your bequest. Please contact JCF Interim Director, Laura what path she wanted to take, one that would benefit both our Thompson, Esq. via phone at 904Jewish community and the Nation 394-0720 or through an email at laura.thompson@jewishfoundation- of Israel. By donating locally and working for The Jewish Federation nefl.org. of Jacksonville, Frechtman already helps support the day-to-day needs of the Jewish community, but the unique part about her as a young philanthropist comes from her understanding of planned giving. She knows that providing for needs of organizations in the future is an essential part of keeping those organizations alive and in her case, this entailed the formation of an endowment fund. As the Director of rGEN (Our Generation) with the Federation, Frechtman assists with and provides programming for young Jewish professionals in our area. “rGEN’ offers an exciting and meaningful array of programs for all stages of young adult life from young professionals, young newcomers, and couples, to families, men and women, and to emerging community leaders,” she explained. “rGEN events are designed to promote awareness of the Federation, our local and overseas partner agencies, and our local synagogues as well as promote social interaction among young Jews.” The New Jersey native has always had personal and familial ties

When Thompson decided to move into the nonprofit world full-time, she sought a position that would allow her to use her contract and negotiation skills, while also allowing her to serve her community and others. She began at the JCF as the Project Manager because of the organization’s dedication to the Jacksonville area and ensuring the longevity of Jewish organizations, and as she begins her journey as the Interim Executive Director, Thompson is committed to bringing accountability, knowledge and dedication to her position. She is excited to continue working with the Board of Trustees in furtherance of the JCF’s mission to create charitable gifts that will financially sustain our community. In her spare time, Thompson enjoys any outdoor activity

JCF interim executive director Laura C. Thompson, Esq.

(especially with her dog), is an avid reader and podcast listener, and is a supporter of live music, comedy, and theatre.

The proﬁle of a JCF Donor: Ariel Frechtman, rGEN Jax Director

Frechtman’s grandparents

Frechtman and her grandfather

to both Israel and to charitable giving, as she has a sister and cousins who currently live in the country and has traveled to visit them. Additionally, after traveling to Israel for a mission trip, she learned that her grandparents, Greta and Roman Rubinstein, had taken their own mission trips to Israel. Furthermore, Frechtman learned that in 1991, her grandparents were recognized by The Jewish Theological Seminary of America and by the Congregation Adath Jeshurun in Elkins Park, Penn., for their support of the Masorti (Conservative) community in Israel. Through the Rubinstein’s generous gift, the Congregation Hod V’Hadar in Kfar Sava was able to build a synagogue and community center. Inspired by this discovery, the rGEN director became even more dedicated to ensuring the longevity of the conservative movement in Israel and chose to further honor her family’s ties to the area by naming her endowment fund after her Zayda. The Roman Rubinstein Endowment Fund specifically provides funding for the Federation to sponsor a mission trip to Israel for one Jacksonville young professional each year. Frechtman feels strongly that in a community such as ours, wherein less than one-percent of the population is Jewish, it is essential that a relationship is cultivated between Jewish young professionals and Israel. The endowment also designates the Jewish Community Alliance of Jacksonville to receive funding for a program entitled the “JCA Professional Seminar,” which is designed to enhance professional leadership and promote the understanding of Jewish identity,

knowledge, practices and customs. When Frechtman began considering charitable estate planning options, she learned that having a life insurance policy was one way for her to begin her endowment fund. Although some of her family members in Israel have committed to supplementing fund with money now, she intends focus on her personal donation and on encouraging other members of her family to start their own endowments. For Frechtman, charitable giving through an endowment fund is a personal mission, a generational mission, and a mission for the Nation of Israel. She wants to encourage other young donors to think about their missions in life and how they too may help sustain the organizations that assist in Jewish communities here and throughout the world. According to her, setting up the endowment was an easy process, as she met with the JCF to discuss her goals, worked with the organization to tailor the language of her endowment agreement to meet her needs, and was able to honor an important member of her family and of the greater Jewish community by naming the endowment after her Zayda. At the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida, we are committed to helping you plan your long term giving strategy. Call us at 904-3940720 to see how you may follow in the footsteps of Frechtman and her family. To learn more about the JCF, log on to jewishfoundationnefl.org and for more information on rGEN and its mission, check out their page in the Federation News section of this edition of the JJN.

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA 2016-17 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $83,560

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RIVER GARDEN SENIOR SERVICES

RIVER GARDEN 2016-17 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $184,000

Jacksonville Jewish News â&#x20AC;¢ February 2017

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

education

Michele Block Gan Yeladim staff returns from recent trip to Israel BY NATHAN WOODS Michele Block Gan Yeladim

This past December, several members of Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten faculty traveled to Israel with staff members from Jewish Community Alliance, Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and Jewish Family and Community Services. The travelers were treated to a beautiful and enriching experience in Israel, and many were making their first-ever trip to the country. This voyage came after spending the year reading and studying together to better understand the complexity of the land. While in Israel, they

Faculty from Michele Block Gan Yeladim join JCA staff as well as JFCS and Federation employees traveled to Israel this past December

DuBow Preschool is moving full STEAM ahead with innovative new learning approach BY AMANDA WATSKY

mersing ourselves in the culture, we were able to realize what life is like as an Israeli and how we can encompass some of these cultural aspects into our daily and professional lives.” The knowledge and experiences brought back by the traveling faculty members will aide Michele Block Gan Yeladim educators in enhancing their teachings of Israeli history and culture. It will also help with their mission of making Israel a larger part of the everyday identity of the school. To learn more about the Israel trip and how it will enhance Block Gan’s curriculum, contact Rochelle Golomb at 904-730-2100, ext. 259.

Martin J. Gottlieb Day School engineering lab scores big with generous donation By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School

DuBow Preschool

When STEAM was initially coined and introduced into educational institutions, many educators began incorporating specific activities that taught science, technology, engineering concepts, and arts or math into their curricula. As our knowledge of implementing STEAM in early education increased and the benefits of these activities became clear, it ignited a shift in teaching where STEAM wasn’t just demonstrated for one activity or lesson, but in a way that encouraged open-ended free play throughout the day, challenging little ones to independently problem solve, and beginning to help even the smallest toddlers identify their frustrations with failure as an opportunity for growth. At the last professional development day, DuBow Preschool teachers brainstormed practical ways that STEAM can be incorporated into any lesson. Teaching in conjunction with growth mindset tends to solidify knowledge, creates growth opportunities for many different types of learners, and also teaches little ones about resilience. With a sturdy science program

explored famous landmarks, experienced intriguing presentations, and worked with local educators to better understand the Israeli educational experience. Upon returning to Jacksonville, participants sat down with the rest of Michele Block Gan Yeladon faculty as well as Israeli shlicha Dana Marmari to enjoy an array of Israeli foods. Those who went on the trip also shared their experiences with the rest of the staff. “After spending the past year studying and learning about Israel with my fellow Jacksonville peers, exploring and experiencing Israel was a surreal and amazing experience,” said Michele Block Gan Yeladim Administrative Coordinator Alexandra Lewis. “By im-

and arts and math permanently infused into all of the school’s classrooms, its efforts have been to incorporate more engineering and technology into daily lesson plans. Some of this is free exploration through loose parts, engineering challenges using legos or other building pieces. Students also find ways to construct out of everyday items some of the unique or playful things they read about in stories. A balance is found in allowing children to confidently and independently explore, while providing them with a safe and exciting way to do that. When you teach a child that their brain is an organ, but can also be a muscle from which they can build and master things, some of the frustrations that young children feel with failure, can be more easily identified and expressed. In addition to the engineering opportunities, teachers are consistently adding technology resources to their STEAM library. The latest classroom addition, Code-a-Pillars, helps teach basic

The STEAM learning approach is fully integrated into all programs and levels at DuBow Preschool

coding skills to students. Within a spiraling curriculum, each of the classes gets to play with the toy and the youngest ones learn cause and effect, vocabulary words, and have fun interacting with the movements and noises that it makes. As the students grow, they begin to learn about directionality, sequence, and learn an important key, which is that they are actually the programmer and telling it what to do. Finally, DuBow’s VPK classes work on challenges or games, to see if they can specifically program it to do certain things. There is a ton of trial and error, but the resilience learned from projects not going exactly the way it is intended is an amazing lesson for any one, including the young and the young of heart.

As previously reported, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School has launched a STEAM initiative, combining subject matters of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics for lessons and projects that get the left and right sides of the brain working together. With an initial donation from the Galinsky Academy PTA, the STEAM lab was able to start building a maker-space, in which students can work independently and collaboratively on creative engineering projects. Because of the immediate, positive impact this program is having on student learning, one school family decided to take the STEAM program to the next level, and has generously committed $20,000 to start the school’s STEAM fund. “We couldn’t be more excited to receive this gift,” said Shana Gutterman, the day school’s art teacher and one of the STEAM leads. The gift enables an initial purchase of a Flashforge 3-D printer and Sphero, a tool that teaches coding and is adaptable for all ages of students, from Kindergarten through Eighth Grade. “In today’s changing world, the overwhelming majority of our

Students are busy building with electrical circuits and robotic components students will hold jobs that don’t yet exist,” explained science teacher Karianne Jaffa. “Our STEAM program is preparing them for that world.” For more information on Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, a Solomon Schechter K-8, please call Nancy Davis at 904-268-4200, ext. 147.

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education

Martin J. Gottlieb Day Schoolers take their learning south to the Orlando Science Center By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School

There’s no better way to learn about our planet than to actually go out and explore it, and recently that is just what The Martin J. Gottlieb Day School’s Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grades did. Of course these classes investigate the solar system in class as part of Florida’s science standards, but an adventurous field trip to The Orlando Science Center solidified that curriculum and introduced them to a wealth of first-hand experiences on the topic.

Students watched ‘Journey to Space’, a planetarium film which chronicles man’s journey out of earth’s atmosphere. Featuring breathtaking images and interview with both male and female astronauts, the film gave the students insight into the extensive technology and engineering work that has made space travel possible. Next, the Discovery Lab Workshop gave students unique opportunities to use a tape measure to show planetary distance to scale, the ability to utilize play dough to create models of the

Fourth and ﬁfth grade students at Martin J. Gottlieb Day School pose for a picture following their recent ﬁeld trip to the Orlando Science Center

Torah Academy of Jacksonville hold its annual Chanukah Party By Torah Academy of Jacksonville

Torah Academy of Jacksonville held its annual Chanukah party in December, with great food and fun games. A raffle was also held in addition to the much anticipated cupcake wars which followed lunch. Students also had the chance to celebrate the festival of lights by watching a special Chanukah inspired music video in between the food and the fun.

planets, and the space to make telescopes with convex and concave lenses, replicating day and night cycles. Students also delved into concepts behind the Sun’s energy, and finally in an exhibit called ‘Our Planet’, experiments and attractions allowed students to explore extreme weather conditions. Overall it was an amazing experience, and students can’t wait to see what other opportunities await them as they explore the world. For more information on Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, a Solomon Schechter K-8, please call Nancy Davis at 904-2684200, ext. 147.

Southside Chabad holds fifth annual Chanukah bookfair and storytime at St. Johns Town Center

Celebrate grandfriends’ Shabbat with Michele Block Gan Yeladim, Feb. 17th Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten classes will celebrate from 10:45 - 11:30 a.m. No registration is required for this event, so for more information, please contact Rochelle Golomb at 904-7302100, ext. 259.

Students at Michele Block Yeladim will be able to celebrate Shabbat with their ‘grandfriends’, Friday, Feb. 17th during two seperate sessions

BY NATHAN WOODS Michele Block Gan Yeladim

Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten’s commitment to involving families in the education process doesn’t stop with the parents. That’s why each year the school encourages its students to invite their ‘grandfriends’ for a Shabbat celebration. The annual Grandfriends’ Shabbat

will take place Friday, Feb. 17th this year and is a great chance for grandparents or special friends to take an active part in the cultural celebrations at Michele Block Gan Yeladim. Whether they’re referred to as Bubbie, Zayde, Grandma or Grandpa, the school invites these special guests to come join its students in an enjoyable, memorable, intergenerational experience. The Busy Bee and Grasshopper classes will celebrate from 10 10:30 a.m., while the Teddy Bear,

Balloon Filled Menorah

It was a wonderful fourth night of Chanukah in Clay County as those celebrating, lit a spectacular Menorah made just of baloons

By Southside Chabad

Just before the beginning of Chanukah, children delighted in a fascinating Festival of Lights tale, and created holiday crafts while enjoying delicious suf-

ganiot (jelly doughnuts) as their folks enjoyed a coffee and a tour of the Jewish book selection at Barnes & Noble. This annual Chanukah event has become a family tradition now in its ﬁfth year.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

super sunday puzzles and games

Be a community hero and ﬁll out this superhero crossword puzzle in CROSSWORD PUZZLE CLUES advance of Federation’s Super Sunday Superhero Crossword Puzzle

Find answers at waynexiaolong.wordpress.com

Superman is not from (20 Down). He is an (8 Down) from a planet called Krypton. His (21 Down) named him (24 Across). His father, Jor-El, found out that their planet was going to (22 Across). Jor-El sent his baby son to (20 Down) in a (3 Down) to save him. Baby (24 Across) was found and (27 Across) by Jonathan and Martha Kent. They named him (2 Down). The Kents raised him as their own son in on their farm in a small (14 Across) called Smallville, (5 Across) in the United States. As he grows up, Clark ﬁnds out that he has (17 Down) powers. He cannot be hurt. He is (7 Down) enough to lift almost anything. He can (4 Down) like a bird. He can run and move faster than a speeding (23 Across). He has can see through walls and shoot heat from his (6 Across). He can (4 Across) things with

his cold breath. He decides to use his special powers to ﬁght (12 Across) and save people in (25 Across). He wears a blue and red (2 Across) and cape to keep his identity (18 Down). He moves to a (10 Down) called (16 Across), and becomes a journalist for the Daily Planet, the most popular (19 Across) in the world. He falls in (11 Across) with another journalist, (13 Down). His only (9 Down) is a (15 Down), a radioactive rock from his home planet. It makes him (11 Down) his powers. His (26 Down) use it to hurt him. (15 Down) comes in many colors, but is usually (1 Down).

Do you have some news you would like to share with the JJN? By Jacksonville Jewish News

Whether it’s a milestone achievement accomplished by a friend or family associated with the Jacksonville Jewish community, or simply a story, event or announcement to be shared, drop us a line at jjn@jewishjacksonville.org. You can also contact newspaper editor and Federation Communications Director Matt Franzblau directly at mattf@jewishjacksonville.or or by calling 904-448-5000, ext. 212. The Jacksonville Jewish News is published 11 times a years, in newspaper from January to May and then again from August to December, with a Summer Magazine covering the months of June and July. For further information as well as advertising rates, log onto jewishjacksonville.org/news and for back issues go to issuu.com/

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

adult education February 2017 Sh’vat/Adar 5777 To include your adult education event in this listing please e-mail the Jacksonville Jewish News at jjn@jewishjacksonville.org, with the time/date or frequency of the event from your specific organization or synagogue, along with a short description of each program or event.

Special Events

February 2nd

Jewish Community Alliance (7 – 9 p.m.) SECRETS OF THE NIGHT SKY – Get a glimpse of the planets in our solar system through high powered telescopes. The fee is $24 and $16 for valued members.

February 4th

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (7 p.m.) SATURDAY AT THE MOVIES The American Jewish Experience on Film. The Pawnbroker starring Rod Steiger. Evening begins with Havdalah and ends with a discussion of the film, led by Rabbi Rick Shapiro.

February 5th

Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (9 - 10:30 a.m.) RELIGIOUS SCHOOL COFEE TALK - Mindfulness Meditation for Children: Presented by Sheila Leiberman. Bagels and coffee will be provided prior to the program at 9:00. Jacksonville Jewish Center (12:30 p.m.) YIDDISH CLUB - JJC Kramer Library. This is an informal group of all ages with varying levels of ability. We’ll listen to Klezmer music, watch videos and films, read and speak in Yiddish.

February 7th

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (7 p.m.) JEWISH LITERATURE GROUP February selection is ‘My Michael’ by Amos Oz. Everyone is welcome and you can to join the group at any time.Held at Kelsi Hasden’s home RSVP to Kelsi or contact her for further information at khasden@ gmail.com. Congregation Ahavath Chesed (7:30 p.m.) JEWS IN THE HINTERLANDS Assistant Professor Shari Rabin, a scholar of American Judaism and Associate Director of the Pearlstine/ Lipov Center for Southern Jewish Culture at The College of Charleston will recount tales of the Jewish experience in the 19th century, beyond the Lower East Side of New York. Thank you to Dr. Larry and Kathy Kanter for bringing this learning opportunity to our community.

February 8th

Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (5 - 5:45 p.m.) INTERMEDIATE HEBREW FOR ADULTS - This intermediate class will be taught by Education Director Beth Brenner and is designed for those students who want to improve upon their basic knowledge of the Hebrew language. This class meets the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. Jewish Community Alliance (6:30 – 9 p.m.) MOSIAC MIRROR WORKSHOP

– In this two-day workshop, create a design of your choice using the direct mosaic method. Registration required. The fee is $105 and $70 for JCA valued members.

February 9th

Jewish Community Alliance (7 – 8:30 p.m.) THE DIFFERENT FACES OF ISRAEL - A ‘Discover Israel’ program will be held in which we will explore and discuss the diverse populations and cultures of Israeli society, from the Ethiopians to the Russians, Bedouins and much more. For more information, call 904-730-2100, ext. 239. $5 admission, free for valued JCA members.

February 11th

Jacksonville Jewish Center (9:15 – 9:55 a.m.) SHALom MEDITATION – Held the second Shabbat of every month Please join us for 25 minutes of meditation in a Jewish environment. At 9:15-9:30, we will offer some basic instruction of meditation technique and approach. We will start our actual practice at 9:30 and go until 9:55 a.m., just in time for the Torah service.

February 13th

Jewish Community Alliance (7 – 8:30 p.m.) DON’T GET HACKED - Join this informative evening with Amanda Videll from the FBI Division of Cyber Crimes to learn how to protect yourself getting hacked. The fee is $5, however JCA valued members are free.

February 15th

Jewish Community Alliance (6:30 – 9 p.m.) MOSIAC MIRROR WORKSHOP – In this two-day workshop, create a design of your choice using the direct mosaic method. Registration required. The fee is $105 and $70 for JCA valued members.

February 18th

Jacksonville Jewish Center (8 – 9 a.m.) COFFEE & TORAH – Held the third Shabbat of every month. Come enjoy a strong cup of brew, a tasty breakfast treat, and thoughtprovoking insights into the weekly Torah portion in the intimate setting of Rabbi Lubliner’s office.

February 21st

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (12 p.m.) LUNCH AND LEARN – Held at Village Bread on San Jose Blvd. Come and satisfy your thirst for a thoughtful and active discussion of current events in the United States, Israel and around the world through the lens of Jewish values and tradition, led by one of Temple’s rabbis. Event is a dutch treat lunch. RSVP to the Temple or contact us for further information at info@ thetemplejacksonville.org. Jacksonville Jewish Center (7:30 p.m.) JJC JEWISH BOOK CLUB - Open to all interested adults and meets at The Barnes & Noble on San Jose Blvd.

February 22nd

the second and fourth Wednesday of every month.

those seeking personal growth and knowledge. Feb. 6th, 13th, 27th.

February 26th

Jacksonville Jewish Center (6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.) TORAH TROPE CLASS - Taught by David Wolinsky, Ritual Director. This class will begin your journey into the world of chanting Torah and attendance of all the classes will maximize the experience. Feb. 6th, 13th, 27th.

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (2 p.m.) MATTERS OF THE HEART AND GENDER EQUALITY IN MEDICINE (GEM) - Educational Program. Jacksonville Hadassah in partnership with the WRJ Temple Sisterhood at the Temple. Event is free, however an RSVP is recommended by calling 904-608-9049.

February 28th

Jewish Community Alliance (2 – 7 p.m.) EXPLORING THE LINK BETWEEN HEARING LOSS AND DEMENTIA – A free hearing screening will be from 2 – 6 p.m. Paul Walker, MD, from Baptist ENT Specialists details cutting edge research on hearing loss and dementia at 7 p.m. Free to the community. Reservations are required.

Regular Events

Sundays

Etz Chaim Synagogue (after Shacharis) THE CHABURAH - The Chaburah is a text based Talmud study learning program with an emphasis on practical Halacha. After preparing the source materials with a learning partner, a brief synopsis and discussion is led by Dr. Elliott Rosenbaum. Hot coffee and pastries are served. For more information or to sponsor this event, please speak with Avi Smith or Jonathan Gross. Jacksonville Jewish Center (9:15 – 10 a.m.) ALEF BET HEBREW CLASS – Taught by Lois Tompkins and will be held at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Feb. 5th, 12th, 26th.

Jacksonville Jewish Center (7 p.m.) TALMUD CLASS - Rabbi Lubliner explores communal responses to crisis in tractate Ta’anit. Open to all, Feb. 6th, 13th, 27th. Jacksonville Jewish Center SERVICE SKILLS - (intermediate Hebrew level) This is an ongoing class, designed to increase prayer fluency and help our congregants to become more comfortable in our Jacksonville Jewish Center weekday and Shabbat services. Basic reading skills are necessary, but we will work together on fluency and prayer vocabulary. All are welcome to join us, Feb. 6th, 13th, 27th.

Tuesdays

Etz Chaim Synagogue (8 p.m.) TALMUD STUDY - Learn the Talmud as you never have before with Rabbi Rabinowitz. The class will slowly and methodically study the sixth chapter of Tractate Brachos and delve into its many intricacies. Previous Talmud study is recommended but not required. Congregation Ahavath Chesed (10:30 a.m.) WISDOM YEARS - A weekly discussion group about contemporary issues viewed through a Jewish lens. Everyone is welcome to join the conversation at any time.

and fulfillment to the experiences of our lives in the past, present and future. Feb. 8th and 22nd. Etz Chaim Synagogue (8:45 a.m.) JAVA FOR THE SOUL – Class is for women and is taught by Rabbi Feigenbaum. The weekly class on The Ethics of our Father you will discover how these messages are relevant to our daily lives. This is an informal class that offers a unique blend of inspirational insight and practical tools for our daily lives. Jacksonville Jewish Center (10 a.m.) YOGA SHALOM - Keep that New Year’s resolution alive and commitment to yourself by exercising and get in shape in 2017. Join us at the Jacksonville Jewish Center for a low impact Yoga Shalom class. We will meet the second, third, and fourth Wednesdays of the month. No fee or prior experience is necessary, so just bring a positive attitude and a towel or exercise mat. To sign up or for more information contact Sandy Selwitz at selwitzs@gmail.com or Naomi Lazar at naomilazar2014@ gmail.com. Sessions held Feb. 15th, 22nd.

Thursdays

Etz Chaim Synagogue (8:45 a.m.) JAVA FOR THE SOUL – Class is for women and is taught by Rabbi Feigenbaum. The weekly class on The Ethics of our Father you will discover how these messages are relevant to our daily lives. This is an informal class that offers a unique blend of inspirational insight and practical tools for our daily lives.

Jacksonville Jewish Center (10:15 a.m. – 12 p.m.) FOUNDATIONS OF JUDIASM CLASS - Classes are held at the JJC, and are open to all, whether you are considering conversion, seeking to understand a friend or relative’s religious choices, or simply trying to go beyond your childhood Jewish education. Classes are ongoing, so join us at any time. The fourth unit, taught by Rabbi Howard Tilman, is called Ethics and Values, where we will explore the foundations, evolution and application of a wide range of Jewish values, and outline the big picture of what it means to live a Jewish life. Feb. 5th, 12th, 26th.

Jewish Community Alliance (10 a.m. – 12 p.m.) POTTERY - Learn the fundamental methods of clay forming, hand building and wheel throwing. Registration required by Feb. 24. The fee is $162 and $108 for JCA valued members. Classes are held from Feb. 28 – Apr. 4.

Etz Chaim Synagogue (6:50 p.m.) NOSH & DRASH - This class is taught by Rabbi Fisch and covers Torah portion that are every week in synagogues. Yet for many of us there is a major disconnect between the words from this ancient text and our lives. Please come for an informal discussion and see the weekly parsha come alive like never before. Hot potato kugel from Sweeta by Ita will be served for participants to enjoy.

Jewish Community Alliance (12:30 p.m.) Jewish Community Alliance WELLNESS CONNEXION HEART HEALTH SERIES - Join Nancy Crain, PA, to learn more about your heart health. Free and open to the community. Feb. 7 – Mar. 7.

Jewish Community Alliance (7 – 9 p.m.) FIGURE DRAWING - Learn to draw an anatomically correct human figure. Registration required by Feb. 21. The fee is $173 and $122 for JCA valued members. Classes are held from Feb. 23 – Mar. 30.

Mondays

Wednesdays

Jewish Community Alliance (6:15 – 7 p.m.) BEGINNER ADULT GUITAR LESSONS - This class teaches an introduction to singing, guitar, music theory and relevant techniques. Bring your own instrument. The fee is $40 and $25 for JCA valued members. Sessions are held Feb. 16 – Mar. 9.

Jacksonville Jewish Center (following minyan) MONDAY MINYAN MAPQUEST - Rabbi Lubliner takes us on a tour of Jewish cities, explaining history and current statistics of some well-known and not-so-well-known Jewish communities in our country. Feb. 6th, 13th, 27th. Jacksonville Jewish Center (12:15 p.m.) PARSHA CLASS - Held in the Kramer Library, where we continue to explore each week’s Torah portion. There will be opportunities to address questions relating to modern issues, family dynamics, and personal dilemmas. See how the Torah is made relevant through midrash (interpretive narrative), halacha (Jewish law), and even science. This class presumes no prior background, so it is perfect for parents wanting to parallel their children’s learning, and for

Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (10:30 a.m.) YOGA SHALOM, MEDITATION AND SPIRITUALITY - Yoga Shalom meets every Wednesday at Beth El. Using a DVD with Cantor Lisa Levine and Carol Kurgoff, you will learn to relax your body, calm your mind, and nurture your spirit. We learn to use advanced, gentle chair modifications for each posture sequence, so bring your mat and we will see you at the next session. Immediately following Yoga Shalom is an hour of Jewish Meditation and Spirituality for you to study and grow spiritually within a Jewish framework. Congregation Ahavath Chesed (7:30 a.m.) PIRKEI AVOT - Learn and then head to work. Join Rabbi Cohen and your Temple friends to explore and discuss these Jewish wisdom texts in ways that will help add meaning

Saturdays

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (9 a.m.) TORAH STUDY - Join the Temple clergy to explore the Torah portion of the week and readings relevant to the Jewish holidays. A light breakfast is served starting at 8:45 am. Saturday morning Shabbat services begin at 10:30 am.

Hebrew school for grownups debuts a new winter course By Chabad of S. Johns

If you have questions about your soul, the aleph-bet, or even odd passover customs, you’re in luck, that’s because Hebrew School for Grownups is starting a new course this winter. Hebrew School for Grownups is when men and women from the area get together to discuss the mind-boggling parts of Jewish life. It’s where intriguing little things that make us tick are discussed, like does G-d actually care about the mitzvot we do? As a kid, Laurie didn’t attend a formal Hebrew school, but when her son

came home from Bar Mitzvah Discovery, he couldn’t stop talking about what he’d learned. His excitement was contagious and Laurie thought to herself, “This is awesome! How do I sign up?” After talking with a few parents and the Rabbi about her own curiosity, Hebrew School for Grownups was born. “We’re excited to start a new session of Hebrew School for Grownups,” said Rabbi Mendel Sharfsteien. “Last time, the course was phenomenal, and everyone’s been asking when the next class will start,” he added. “Most of us are so busy, so it’s hard to make

time for ourselves to learn as adults,” said Eric. “But doing this once a month makes it easy to say this is my time to study and find out about the ‘why’ of Judaism.” Because the topics are chosen by you, email Rabbi Mendel rabbi@jewishsjohnscounty.com to RSVP and let us know what you’re curious about. Whether or not you’ve had a chance to attend Hebrew School as a kid, you’ll fit right in. Hebrew School for Grownups will take place once a month on Sunday evenings in St. Johns, so RSVP for the address. Hebrew School for Grownups is a project of Chabad of St Johns. To find out more, visit JewishSJohnsCounty.com or call 904-7014422.

Hebrew school for grownups has been a big hit that brought large crowds

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Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2017

SYNAGOGUE NEWS

The Temple to celebrate the New Year of trees in style, Feb. 11th By Congregation Ahavath Chesed

Tu b’Shevat or the ‘New Year of the Trees’, is Jewish Arbor Day. The holiday is observed on the 15th (tu) day of the month of Shevat, which corresponds this year to Saturday, Feb. 11. Scholars believe that Tu b’Shevat was originally an agricultural festival, marking the emergence of spring. After the destruction of the Temple in 70 C.E., the holiday became a way for Jews to symbolically bind themselves to Israel by eating foods that are grown there. In the 17th century, the Kabbalists created a ritual for Tu b’Shevat similar to the Passover Seder.

“The Tu b’Shevat Seder is an

opportunity to connect with our faith in diverse ways,” explained Rabbi Shapiro, Interim Senior Rabbi at The Temple. “We celebrate Judaism’s appreciations of our natural world, reconnect with mystical spirituality, plant trees and build bridges with Israel,” he explained. “We sing festive songs and share exotic fruits and nuts with our families, friends and fellow congregants and the entire community is welcome to join us for an evening celebrating the bounty of Israel, Jews connection to the natural world and the start of spring, after a dark, cold winter.” The festivities begin at 5 p.m., with Havdalah, so reserve your spot now by sending an email to rsvp@TheTempleJacksonville.org.

Chabad at the Beaches presents a Jewish book club for women, as every month the club meets and discusses a new book. The novels cover a wide variety of topics that meet various interests. This is a great opportunity to meet new people, share your thoughts and opinions, and hear other people’s insights as well. The next meeting will take place Tuesday, Feb. 7th at 7:30 p.m., and it is free of charge. The Women’s monthly book club will in February to discuss ‘The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street’, which is bestselling author Susan Jane Gilman’s IndieNext pick novel about an immigrant girl’s transformation into an indomitable businesswoman in early 20th century New York.

As a child in 1913, Malka Treynovsky fleed Russia for New York with her family, only to be crippled and abandoned

By Congregation Ahavath Chesed

The community is invited to Saturday Night at the Movies, Saturday Feb. 4 at The Temple, at 7 p.m. to view the 1965 film, ‘The Pawnbroker’, starring Rod Steiger. This monthly film series begins with Havdalah and ends with a discussion of the movie led by Rabbi Rick Shapiro. ‘The Pawnbroker’ was directed by Sidney Lumet, whose life story was just released on American Masters, a WJCT series. The film is Morgan Freeman’s feature film debut and it was adapted by Morton S. Fine and David Friedkin from the novel of the same name by Edward Lewis Wallant. The film was the first American movie to deal with the Holocaust from the viewpoint of a survivor and it earned internain the streets. Taken in by a tough-loving Italian ices peddler, tional acclaim for Steiger, who launched his career as an A-list Treynovsky survives, but when actor. The film was among the she falls in love with Albert, first American movies to feature they set off together across nudity during the Production America in an ice cream truck Code, and was the first film to seek their fortune. Slowly, featuring bare breasts to receive she transforms herself into Production Code approval. Lillian Dunkle, ‘The Ice Cream Although it was publicly anQueen of America’ and head of nounced to be a special excepan empire of ice cream franchises and a celebrated television tion, the controversy proved to be first of similar major chalpersonality. Spanning 70 years, lenges to the Code that ultimately Lillian’s rise, fraught with setbacks, triumphs, and tragedies is led to its abandonment. In 2008, inextricably linked to the course ‘The Pawnbroker’ was selected of American history itself, from for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by Prohibition to the disco days the Library of Congress as being of Studio 54, but when her past described as ‘culturally, historistarts catching up with her, her cally, or aesthetically significant’. world implodes spectacularly. With the rise of Hitler, Sol The book club is hosted at Nazerman (Steiger), a Germanprivate homes and address information is given with reserva- Jewish university professor, was dragged to a concentration camp tions. For information, please along with his family. While call 904-543 9301, email info@ there, he saw his two children die chabadbeaches.com or visit and his wife raped by Nazi ofchabadbeaches.com.

Jewish book club for women to review book about the ice cream queen of Orchard St. By Chabad at the Beaches

The Temple’s Saturday night at the movies to feature Feb film ‘The Pawnbroker’

ficers in the camp. Now he operates a pawnshop in East Harlem, while living in an anonymous Long Island apartment. Numbed by his experiences, he has worked hard not to experience emotions. Nazerman is bitter and alienated, viewing the people around him as ‘rejects and scum’. Nazerman is idolized by a young Puerto Rican, Jesus Ortiz, who works for Nazerman as his shop assistant, but the youth’s friendship is rebuffed, as are the overtures of Marilyn Birchfield, a neighborhood social worker. Nazerman eventually learns that Rodriguez, a racketeer who uses the pawnshop as a front, makes his money through prostitution. Nazerman recalls his wife’s degradation and wants no part of it. This of course results in a clash with Rodriguez, who threatens to kill Nazerman. Meanwhile Ortiz, his feelings hurt when Nazerman says that Ortiz means nothing to him, spitefully arranges for the pawnshop to be robbed by a neighborhood gang. During the robbery, Nazerman refuses to hand over his money. Ortiz takes the gang member’s bullet intended for Nazerman and dies in Nazerman’s arms in the street.

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