NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Jewish Life A PU B LICATION O F JE WI S H FE DE RAT ION A N D FOU N DAT ION OF N ORT H E AST F LO R I DA
JUNE 2020 - TAMUZ 5780 VOL. 32 NO. 20 | jewishjacksonville.org photo credit: Torah Academy
OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
contents COMMUNITY YOU’VE GOT A (GIRL)FRIEND IN ME
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L’DOR V’DOR MAZEL TOV TO THE CLASS OF 2020
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FEATURES OUTREACH: TELE-COUNSELING
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SEE AND BE SCENE MOTHER’S DAY AT RIVER GARDEN
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COMMUNITY RESOURCES
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COVID-19 Resources & Community Information These are uncertain, challenging times for the world, our country, Israel and our community. The Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida is ready to fulfill the mandate of “kol yisrael arevim zeh b’zeh” (all of Israel are responsible for one another). Our shared Jewish values provide a roadmap for weathering this coronavirus storm. As always, we translate those values into actions that define us: saving lives, caring for the sick and performing acts of loving kindness. Obviously, it is not business as usual. Though our office is closed, we remain very much
open for business to help the hungry, the sick and others at-risk. Below you will find a community resource guide with information for not only your local Jewish community, but city information and other resouces from the WHO and the CDC. If you or your family need help and you cannot find the resources you need here, please don’t hesitate to reach out to info@jewishjacksonville.org and we will assist you in any way we can. For updated information, please go to our website at jewishjacksonville.org.
www.jewishtogether.org
Virtual community and informative resources, powered by The Jewish Federations of North America.
www.jacksonville.com/topics/coronavirus
The Florida-Times Union is a good resource for local pandemic-related news. No sign up required.
www.jfcsjax.org The Max Block Food Pantry will have bagged food available for pick-up between 1-3:00 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday at our Dupont location (6261 Dupont Station Court East). When you come to the food pantry, please park in a numbered space in front of the pantry, stay in your vehicle, and turn on your hazard lights. Someone will come to your vehicle to assist you. Teletherapy (pg.17) is currently being offered either online or over the phone. Counseling is offered on a sliding scale based on income. Many different insurances are also accepted, including Medicaid. Call 904-394-5706 to schedule an appointment.
www.NowInStock.net
NowInStock.net - Keep an eye online for information regarding restocks of much needed items, like household cleaners, hand soap and toilet paper.
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LETTER FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Last week, we celebrated the holiday of Shavuot. The name Shavuot (weeks) refers to the timing of the festival, held exactly seven weeks after Passover. These weeks have been like no other in recent memory! Shavuot commemorates the giving of the Ten Commandments at Mt. Sinai. I was taught that when we gathered at Mt. Sinai to receive the Torah, we were more together as a people than at any time in our history. As our Jewish community begins to reopen, we will be challenged in how we gather together, work together, and heal together, perhaps like never before. How will services return to our synagogues? How will our children return to school? How are we to conduct our board and committee meetings? How are we to hold our fundraising and other events? The answers to these and other questions are not so easily found. There is real power, however, in really living with these questions, being open to discovery, to growth and change. However, one thing I know for sure is that the strong partnership within this community, shared among the volunteer and professional leadership and our clergy, will power potential and ensure a successful path forward.
Jewish Federation & Foundation Staff
Alan Margolies Federation Executive Director alanm@jewishjacksonville.org
Lauren Rickoff Director, Campaign & Women’s Philanthropy laurenr@jewishjacksonville.org Kellie Smith Director, Foundation kelliek@jewishjacksonville.org
Emma Pulley Associate Director, Administration & Planned Giving emmap@jewishjacksonville.org Faye Hedrick Director, Young Professionals & Families fayeh@jewishjacksonville.org
Pat Burke Director, Finance & Administration patrickb@jewishjacksonville.org Val Battini Finance Specialist valb@jewishjacksonville.org
Isabel Balotin Director, Shalom Y’all shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org Jill Abel Director, Israel Partnership jilla@jewishjacksonville.org
Rotem Gabay Israeli Shaliach jaxshlichut@jewishjacksonville.org Jennifer Rensch Campaign Coordinator jenniferr@jewishjacksonville.org
Alan Margolies Federation Executive Director
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Your Strategists, LLC Communications & Editorial Team jjn@jewishjacksonville.org Ellen Cohen Wilcox Sales Representative es_cohen@yahoo.com
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YOU’VE GOT A (GIRL)FRIEND IN ME By Lauren Rickoff, Jewish Federation and Foundation of Northeast Florida
The Annual Women’s Philanthropy Girlfriend Connection provided connections in a new way, virtually. More than 50 women participated in the Jewish Federation and Foundation of Northeast Florida event in May—the first community-wide Zoom event that Women’s Philanthropy hosted. Co-chairs, Kiley Efron and Debbie Parker, adjusted beautifully to the new
Event Co-Chair Kiley Efron
situation. Their prepandemic vision included an event where women could learn tools and strategies for mindfulness and living in the moment. Topics that were more relevant than ever as people were not only forced to slow down, but to stop. Guest speaker, Linda Janasz, gave attendees tools for overcoming anxiety during these uncertain times. “The Girlfriend Connection was the first event I attended 12 years ago when I moved to Jacksonville. I was invited by a friend and was
overwhelmed by how welcoming the community of women were,” co-chair Kiley Efron said. “I have since attended the event many times and have always left feeling inspired. I was honored to have the opportunity to help shape this year’s event as co-chair along side Debbie Parker.” Janasz instructed us to begin every day with gratitude, because it primes our brain for resilience. If there is beauty in the person, there will be harmony in the house. If there is harmony in the house, there will be order in
Event Co-Chair Debbie Parker
the nation. And if there is order in the nation, there will be peace in the world. “We wanted to choose a topic that would be beneficial to all our girlfriends. Of course, we never imagined that we would actually need someone like Linda to give us the necessary tools to guide us through a pandemic,” Parker said. “I am grateful that Jacksonville has such an amazing group of women involved in the Federation and it was thrilling to see so many people attend via Zoom.”
Event Guest Speaker Linda Janasz
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NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE
BEQUESTIONS WITH KELLIE SMITH
HOW HAS COVID-19 AFFECTED CHARITABLE GIVING?
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How has Covid-19 impacted our nonprofit community? It goes without saying that this pandemic has wreaked havoc on our economy, most nonprofits will suffer a significant setback for quite some time and some will be at risk for organizational downsizing. While board leaders, donors, volunteers and other supporters of these nonprofits have admirably stepped up, it will be challenging to fully mitigate the impact on our organizations. Now, like never before, nonprofits need others to “lean in.” The change in our way of life is taking a tremendous human and economic toll, and it’s also impacting charitable organizations throughout our community and across the country. Our Jewish organizations and their missions may be among those that have been hit hardest. Some support people who are hungry, who face challenges beyond our comprehension. Others bring us spirituality and are there for us as we honor and celebrate milestones throughout our lives. Some of the most affected will be our schools that we rely on to educate our children. Think about that, what will the next
generation of Jews look like if we are unable to walk through the doors of our shuls and schools? According to a 2012 report, “Charitable Giving and the Great Recession,” the Great Recession of 2008 reduced total charitable giving by 7.0% in 2008 and 6.2% in 2009. The authors report that giving did increase slightly in 2010, but only by 1.3%, followed by an increase in 2011 of just 0.9% — hardly a recovery at all. For charitable organizations, the current crisis could be even more catastrophic than the Great Recession was. While we don’t know how much economic damage COVID-19 will cause, the rapidity of the decline so far has people understandably concerned about the potential hit to their businesses and personal finances. In turn, they are likely to forego charitable contributions as a way of cutting expenses and preserving capital. Regardless of finances, just about everyone has the ability to help a nonprofit in some meaningful way. You can donate time and professional skills if financial contributions are impossible. Key skills in demand now include legal, medical, management, real estate, and financial expertise. People with social media, marketing, and public-relations skills are also needed. All of these skill sets can mitigate the impact to nonprofits. As we slowly begin to re-enter public spaces and navigate these uncharted financial times we must remember that we need the
nonprofit organizations within our Jewish community. Social distancing will change the way our organizations are able to raise money and some may struggle to find their way on a new path. As donors, volunteers, board members and community members, we have a responsibility to help our organizations reinvent the way we stay connected and financially successful. How we react during this crisis not only shows what we are made of, but also has the potential to influence the future. We all have the opportunity to use this unique moment to make our world a better place and ensure that
vital nonprofit organizations remain viable. And remember this: Our children are watching us closely during this difficult time. How we act during times of adversity will surely shape their views and conduct in the future. This crisis need not — must not — lead to the loss of our humanity. To quote Albert Einstein, “In the midst of every crisis, lies great opportunity.” Yes, and in the midst of every crisis lies great responsibility. May this time bring out the best in us and remind us that we are all responsible for one another.
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KEEPING FAITH ALIVE: QUARANTINE SURVIVAL KIT By Faye Hedrick, Jewish Federation and Foundation of Northeast Florida One of the most important things to maintain (and strengthen) during this uncertain time in our modern world is keeping a well-built foundation rooted in religion, faith, and tradition. However, without a constant effort, it can also be one of the first things to go. Our faith, like our health, requires effort and attention to ensure it remains strong. One thing that has been highlighted during this time for our family is the importance of looking inward and identifying (and just, if not more importantly, prioritizing) opportunities to weave faith and tradition into our new normal. This can be through family cooking of a favorite holiday recipe—we went with brisket! It can be through a Zoom Bar Mitzvah (Great job, Jacob!); reading and discussing a special book
(Thanks, PJ Library!); signing in for a Shabbat morning service and feeing a deep connection or realization to your Rabbi’s sermon; or just going for a walk and
appreciating all we have to be thankful for in the world—even now, maybe even now more than ever. If you haven’t already, look for a silver lining in this
unprecedented time and look for opportunities to strengthen your own family’s foundation, especially when it is harder than ever to do.
GAINING INSIGHT INTO ISRAEL’S IMPACT
By Lior Spring, Jewish Community Alliance
In January, the Myron Flagler Israel Learning Seminar (ILS) cohort began their yearlong study in preparation for travel to Israel at the end of this year. In that time, the group explored various aspects of Israeli history and culture as well as Israel’s current contributions to the world. The most recent session with ILS participants covered the geography of Israel and how the landscape has changed over
the years. The session also explored Israel’s role as the start-up nation of the world and Jewish peoplehood. This introduction to Israel enlightened the Jacksonville Jewish communal professionals participating in the program as it related to their overall understanding of Israel and their work. “I’ve gained a lot of insight into how Israeli children are taught. The environment lends itself to freedom, discovery and exploration. It allows children
to think for themselves as very capable individuals but also work as a team,” Michele Block Gan Yeladim instructor, Rachel Ledesm said. “Children learn through experiences and these are things that can be applied to my teaching here at Michele Block Gan Yeladim,” Director of Prevention at Jewish Family and Children Services Jennifer Wirz said. “I am gaining a much better understanding of the history and current status of Israel and the Jewish culture.
I work with a wide variety of clients in Child Protective Services who are all very diverse. Better understanding leads to better relationships and in child welfare, better outcomes for our families.” The Myron Flagler Israel Learning Seminar is made possible through the generous donations of community sponsors. The endowment will allow a cohort to study and visit Israel every three years. For more information, contact lior.spring@jcajax.org.
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NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE
RIVER GARDEN WELCOMES NEW BOARD PRESIDENT for the last three years. Dr. ‘Larry’ Goldberg has been an active board member at River Garden since 2010. He is In April, River Garden held also a current member of the its Annual Meeting via Zoom. board at the Jacksonville Jewish Over 100 members of the Center, and a former JFCS community attended virtually board member. Newly retired as we elected board members after over 40 years in practice, for River Garden Senior Dr. Goldberg enjoys reading, Services and installed officers exercise, and board cooking and members of travel. He and River Garden his wife Phyllis Hebrew recently Home, The celebrated River Garden their 50-year Foundation anniversary; and The they are the Coves at proud parents River Garden. of two During the daughters and meeting, grandparents River Garden to three. River welcomed Dr. Garden is Larry fortunate to Goldberg, River Garden Board of Directors have Dr. newly installed President Dr. ‘Larry’ Goldberg Goldberg’s President of medical perspective leading the River Garden Hebrew Home, agency during this and thanked Susan Cohen for unprecedented time. her service as board president
By Kari Bell, River Garden Senior Services
ASKING FOR HELP IS A SIGN OF STRENGTH
By Donna O’Steen, Jewish Family and Community Services
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Asking for help is hard for most people. It’s even harder for someone who has always been the source of support for others to be on the other end of the equation. Acknowledging that you need help is not a weakness. Jewish Family & Community Services is here to support you through the difficulties that have arisen due to COVID-19, and our caring staff are especially
qualified to help you get through this trying time. JFCS offers confidential services to those in the Jewish community who are struggling. Services include: rent and mortgage payments, utility payments, private food pantry appointments, mental health counseling and many other types of assistance. For a free, private consultation, contact Jewish Services Director, Hilary Rotenberg, at 904-394-5722 or email her at info@jfcsjax.org. JFCS is here for you. JFCS is #hereforjax.
All other board leaders remain unchanged: Gloria Einstein, President of River Garden Senior Services; Denny Lafer, President of The Coves at River Garden; and Sandy Zimmerman, President of The River Garden Foundation. The work of our agency continues, even during these difficult and stressful times. Thank you for your continued support.
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JCA HONORS BROWN AND BRIGMAN
By Iman Byfield, Jewish Community Alliance
Each year, the JCA recognizes members of the JCA community who have gone above and beyond in service to the agency with the Howard Korman President’s Award and the JCA Special Service Award. The Howard Korman President’s Award recognizes a JCA board member who embodies the qualities of leadership, vision and courage during the program year. Nicole Brown is being honored for her work as chair of the 2020 JCA Fundraiser, A Night in New Orleans. As chair of the event with her
husband, Andy, Brown led the JCA executive committee to a new fundraising record as well as record event attendance for a non-milestone year. Brown is also a JCA Ambassador, a member of the 2019 Jewish Cultural Arts Festival committee, a member of this year’s board nominating committee and a class parent in her son’s Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool class. “It was truly a pleasure to collaborate with Nicole on this event and help implement her vision for A Night In New Orleans,” JCA Development Director, Lior Spring said.
Andy and Nicole Brown--Nicole is the recipent of the Howard Korman President’s Award.
organization to others,” JCA The Special Service CEO, Adam Chaskin said. Award is given to a person “We are extremely grateful who demonstrates to Lathun for his continued outstanding service to the JCA, and Lathun Brigman is advocacy for the JCA in our community.” being honored for his role as part of the JCA Fundraiser Committee. Brigman worked alongside the JCA Executive Committee to help raise record funds for the JCA’s fundraiser in a non-milestone year. Brigman and his wife Deborah are longtime JCA members and supporters. “Lathun is truly a believer in the JCA’s mission. He has seen, firsthand, the benefits of the JCA’s work, and he is passionate Lathun Brigman is the recipent of The JCA about relaying the Special Service Award importance of our
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NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE
GETTING IN TOUCH WITH YOUR ROOTS
By Marla Westberg VP, Genealogy Researcher, Jewish Genealogy Society of Northeast Florida
With many of us indoors and not pursuing our usual activities, now is a good time further your genealogy research and learn more about your family. If you are new to genealogy, here are a few tips to help you get started. • Create an account on JewishGen and check out the databases, or revisit the databases again: jewishgen.org • Explore the online databases are Beit Hatfutsot (the Museum of the Jewish People): dbs.bh.org.il • Use FamilySearch to look
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for census records and other info. familysearch. org/en/ Participate in a free Genealogy webinar through the New York Genealogical and Biographical society. Past webinars are available for replay: newyorkfamilyhistory. org/blog/upcoming-freewebinars Watch free videos from past RootsTech conferences (just made available at no cost!): rootstech.org/videoarchive Learn with a video at Ancestry Academy: ancestry.com/academy/ courses/recommended Look for your relatives’ passenger manifests. Use
the Steve Morse page stevemorse.org • Check out Avotaynu for Jewish Genealogy resources: avotaynu.com • Have you missed any meetings? Visit our website to see past presentations: jgsofneflorida.wordpress. com/presentations/ • Phone calls are back in fashion. Call family members and share stories. Maybe someone
will remember something you didn’t hear before! • Look through old photos. Do you have any with unidentified people? Share them with your family. Maybe someone can offer more information. If you need more information, the Jewish Genealogy Society of Northeast Florida can help. Email us at jgsnefl@gmail. com
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! By Kari Bell, River Garden Senior
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(L-R) Beth Wolpoff, Michelle Branly & Phyllis Vandermolen from the River Garden Foundation office share their appreciation.
COVID-19 may have kept golfers off the green for the annual River Garden Classic in April, but that didn’t damper their dedication to the organization. Through commitments made by many generous sponsors and donors, River Garden raised more than $71,000 this spring.
River Garden wishes a heartfelt thanks to Janne & Jody A. Brandenburg, President, Hardage-Giddens Funeral Homes & Cemeteries, Title Sponsor; Matt Tucci, Jacksonville Market Director, HardageGiddens Funeral Homes & Cemeteries, Title Sponsor; Paul Campbell, North Florida Managing Director, Dignity Memorial, Title Sponsor; Mark Lodinger & Tom Harris, Tournament Chairs; Ed Grenadier, Michael Price, Lewis Price, Bruce Fowler and Paula Kukelhan, 2020 Golf Committee.
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IN MEMORIAM:
SHARON SIEGEL COHEN
If you’re reading this, then I finally lost my battle with ALS. I like to have the last word, so here are my final thoughts. Since I was diagnosed in 2018, I tried to fight the disease with grace and dignity. I was surrounded by my family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, doctors and caregivers who became my warriors. In 1939, in his iconic speech, baseball legend Lou Gehrig said he felt like the luckiest man on the face of the earth. Despite this cruel disease, I often felt like the luckiest woman on earth. I was married to the love of my life, Joel Cohen, for 27 years. He died in October 2019 and before his death, he had become my caregiver. He would have been touched by all the love and support I had.
Our son Martin was our pride and joy. He will continue to make us proud through hard work, compassion and humor. My parents, Helen and Eddie Siegel were by my side every day; always there to help and encourage me. I was lucky they were my role models. My sister Frances Schube was my champion. I’m lucky to have her, my brother-in-law Mike Schube, my nephew Ryan and our dear Darci in my life. I appreciate the love and kindness Joel’s brother Stan and my sister-in-law Nancy showed me. They were here for Martin as well. I am lucky to have my Aunt Rosalind, Uncle Phillip and many cousins in my journey. I feel lucky to have my amazing friends. Through my battle, they have been at my side. They are beautiful, compassionate and showed me love every day. I am honored they were in my life. My other family was at WJXT, Channel 4. I worked there as Executive Producer for 33 years. My colleagues have been with me through my
IN MEMORIAM: GILBERT KRANTZ
With a heavy heart we announce the passing of Gilbert Krantz on May 10, 2020. Gil was a devoted husband to Sondra, loving father to Steven, Alan, and Jonathan, adoring grandfather, and beloved brother. He was born July 19, 1929 in Brooklyn, NY to Gussie and Morris Krantz. Gil is survived by
his sons Alan Krantz (Adria), Jonathan Krantz (Susan), grandchildren Jason (Lila), Shelby (Dylan), Caroline, Adam and Rachel. He liked to golf, brag about his sons and all his grandchildren, but mostly he loved to spend time with his family who will miss his smile and gentleness greatly.
journey, and they have rallied to help me. It was a joy and privilege to work with them. I graduated from Wolfson High School in 1975 and my wonderful classmates have been there with encouragement. A proud Gator, I graduated from UF in 1979. I was President of Delta Phi Epsilon Sorority and my sisters came from around the country to be with me. In my career I worked at WSB in Atlanta and then at WTVT in Tampa. The friends and colleagues I made in Atlanta and Tampa touched my life in many ways. I was lucky to have neighbors who have been so thoughtful. I was lucky to have Dr. Michael Pulley and his team at UF Health overseeing my care. I was lucky to have Melissa, Joy and Danielle taking care of me at my home with such sweetness. I was lucky to be
inspired by Evan Yegelwel. I was lucky to be on the regional board of ALS. I was honored to receive the courage award from Orangetheory Fitness and become an ALS ambassador from the Florida ALS chapter. I was lucky to be on the Board of River Garden Hebrew Home and a member of the Jacksonville Jewish Center. During one of the ALS walks, my team was named Sharon’s Songbirds. When anybody left or retired at WJXT, I wrote them a song and sang it. Of all the songs that I can think of, the one that now means the most to me is “Thanks for the Memories.” I am lucky to have had a wonderful life. My final wish is to find a cure for ALS. Lou Gehrig was diagnosed in 1939. It’s time to find a cure. Thank you all for being part of my life.
MAZEL TOV: BRANDON MELAMED
Mazal Tov to Brandon Melamed on graduating from Stanton College Preparatory High school. Melamed will be enrolled at Aish HaTorah - Gesher for a gap year study program starting next fall in Jerusalem, Israel. He will be dual enrolled with Yeshiva University in New York City. Additionally, Melamed is the current President and Founder of the Jewish Student Union (JSU) at Stanton Prep, President of NCSY Jax and
Vice President of NCSY Greater South. He has participated on NCSY trips to Israel and Poland including BILT (Boys Israel Leadership Training) and TJJAP (The Jerusalem Journey Ambassadors Poland).
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L’DOR V’DOR F A M I LY, E D U C A T I O N A N D S E N I O R L I V I N G
FIFTH GRADE STUDENT WINS INTERNATIONAL PRIZE By Brian Pargman, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
In celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day, 13,400 students representing more than 200 middle schools and high schools from around the world competed in the OpenDor Media’s Global Trivia Challenge. From April 29 to May 1, the students had the opportunity to participate in an online Kahoot quiz with questions based on OpenDor Media’s six-part Israeli history video curriculum students reviewed this year. Martin J. Gottlieb Day School 5th grader Itamar Ohayon
captured the first place prize. The Israeli history curriculum consists of video classes that bring together archival footage, original text and analyses, and multiple historical narratives to bring a nuanced perspective on Zionism and Israel’s founding to the students. The six classes are: The Convoy of 35, Women of Zionism, The Yom Kippur War, What Is Zionism, UN Resolution 181, and Israel’s War of Independence. The Englishlanguage videos have been translated into 12 languages: Bulgarian, Czech, Danish, Finnish, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hungarian, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, and
Spanish. The trivia contest scores students based on correct answers and the speed in which they respond. Guest presenters include Israel’s Minister of Defense Naftali Bennett, journalist Sivan RahavMeir, human rights activist Natan Sharansky, and psychologist Tal BenShahar. “I’m so proud of Itamar because he set a goal for himself, spent a lot of time preparing for the competition, and achieved an amazing goal,” Martin J. Gottlieb Day School Judaic Studies Coordinator Liat Walker said. Mazel Tov, Itamar!
JCA LOOKS FORWARD TO SAFE, FUN SUMMER By Iman Byfield, Jewish Community Alliance
Over the past couple of months, the JCA has been diligently working on a plan to offer safe, socially responsible summer child care for families in the community who historically relied on JCA Summer Camp to keep their children active and engaged during the summer months. While the JCA is unable to offer camp as it has in previous years, it is offering a new program, J Days of Summer, which begins on
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June 1. J Days of Summer takes into account recommendations from government and health organizations in order to provide the safest experience possible for children. This will include daily temperature checks and medical questionnaires for staff and participants, increased hand washing policies/practices and more frequent disinfecting of surfaces and items which children come in frequent contact. There will also be a reduction in group sizes and
the elimination of group mixing. These protocols and procedures are a part of the JCA’s continued efforts to ensure the safety and
well-being of everyone in our community as they look forward to a fun, engaging summer.
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MAZEL TOV TO THE MARTIN J. GOTTLIEB DAY SCHOOL CLASS OF 2020!
Back Row (Left to Right) Jacob Morgenthal (Greenwood School), Mark Gruenbaum (Ponte Vedra High School), Jacob Gross (Mandarin High AICE Program), Sam Kaplan
(Wolfson IB), George Setzer (Wolfson IB), Evan Wolpoff (The Bolles School), Aiden Smolensky (Wolfson IB), Masha Bezverkh (Douglas Anderson School of the Arts),
Madelyn Milrood (Mandarin AICE) Front Row (Left to Right) Michal Babadzhanov (Jacksonville Torah High School), Adalia Moyer
(Jacksonville Torah High School), Lily Davis (Mandarin High AICE Program), Elliana Tesler (Creekside High School, Digital Media Academy), Talia Zagai (Wolfson IB)
GABAY READS TO MICHELE BLOCK GAN YELADIM KINDERGARTEN STUDENTS FROM ISRAEL
By Danielle Wirsansky, Jewish Community Alliance
When the COVID-19 pandemic forced Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten to close its doors for the safety of its students, faculty and the community, educators and students began looking for ways to connect digitally. Story telling is a way for students of all ages to connect with their teachers, even through a computer screen. Rotem Gabay, the
Jacksonville community’s shaliach, returned to Israel during this time. While home, he became a digital storyteller and mystery reader for the school’s kindergarten class. He read “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” by Dr. Seuss, a fitting tale for children quarantined at home and longing to leave. To make it even more special, Gabay read the book in Hebrew. Hearing one of their favorite books read aloud in Hebrew was a truly exciting moment for the students. Michele Block Gan Yeladim Kindergarten classes
have studied Hebrew this year, and Gabay’s story telling gave them the opportunity to hear how Hebrew sounds more conversationally as well as the rhythm of the language. Students also learned how to apply the vocabulary they learned and how to contextualize a story that they already
knew but now in a different language.
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NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE
FACULTY RECOGNIZED BY NATIONAL JCC ASSOCIATION
By Danielle Wirsansky, Jewish Community Alliance
On May 4, the National JCC Association recognized Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten staff in their daily newsletter during National Teacher Appreciation Week. The Educator Spotlight featured Natalia Fisher, the school’s Curriculum Coordinator: “It’s Teacher Appreciation Week in North America and our teachers have been redefining excellence no matter what challenges may arise. Today we honor the educators from the Jewish Community Alliance of Jacksonville where together with their ECE Curriculum Coordinator, Natalia Fisher, they work hard to keep the
Jewish lenses alive and visible in everything they do.” The National JCC Association also included a video from Fisher that documented student and faculty’s experience with the transition to online learning and how teachers use the Sheva lenses in their online lessons and activities. In a note to the faculty, Early Childhood Education Director Theresa Levy wrote, “I knew you were special but now North America knows too! A special thank you to all of you for your talent and passion,” she wrote. “You made an amazing pivot to connect in very different ways. Natalia inspired us and brought it all together in her documentation.”
SUMMER READING FOR KIDS By Crystal Whitman, Jewish Community Alliance
As we move into summer and restrictions are lifted, people are beginning to think of travel, summer camps and seeing family and friends. Books are a great way to help start conversations about upcoming events with our children. Cynthia Rylant’s book The Relatives Came is a wonderful story about summer vacation. This silly story talks about traveling by car, where one can go, and who or what might be seen? It can be used to discuss the people in your family. Do your children have any relatives that remind
them of those in the story? How do your children feel when it is time to leave their special place? More book recommendations: • How Will We Get to the Beach by Brigitte Luciani • Down by the Cool of the Pool by Tony Mitton • The Berenstain Bears Go to Camp by Stan and Jan Berenstain • Picnic at Camp Shalom by Jacqueline Jules (PJ Library Book) Whether you travel someplace far or have a staycation right at home, let books join you and your children on your adventures.
CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES! By Justin Sakofs, Jewish Community Center
The Jacksonville Jewish Center proudly recognized the graduates of the Bernard and Alice Selevan Religious School on May 31. These students committed themselves to Jewish learning by learning Hebrew, developing synagogue skills, and forming the foundation of Jewish community. This year’s graduates included: Jacob Campbell, Max Carson, Benjamin Marmelstein, Scott Miller, Jadyn Reff, Noah Wasserman
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and Ari Willens. These lifelong learners will continue expanding their knowledge through participating in the Jewish Teen Leadership Initiative. Here they will continue to explore Jewish thought through ancient and contemporary texts, podcasts, videos, and more. The graduates will be recognized with a special Havdalah ceremony as part of their graduation and one will be presented with the Joni Shmunes Mensch of the Year Award.
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F A M I LY, E D U C A T I O N A N D S E N I O R L I V I N G
KINDNESS PREVAILS AT RIVER GARDEN
By Kari Bell and Pam LaMontagne, Nurse, River Garden Senior Services
Over the last several weeks, River Garden has been the recipient of many acts of kindness from Gili’s, students, ISEL and CitiBank. Thank you for sharing your good works with River Garden. On suggestion from one of our nursing supervisors, Stephanie Evans, we’ve also instituted an internal ‘act of kindness’ by way of encouraging morning announcements on our campus. Each announcement is delivered by a different employee, and here is one to share from nurse Pam LaMontagne: Each and every one of us makes a difference in someone’s life every single day. When I think of River Garden, I am reminded of what is needed for a “Garden” to flourish…and the following poem, with a play on words, comes to mind.
Plant 3 “peas”….Peace of mind, Peace of heart, and Peace of soul Plant 4 “squash”….Squash gossip, Squash grumbling, Squash indifference, Squash selfishness Plant 4 “lettuces”…Let us be kind, Let us be faithful, Let us be hopeful, and Let us love one another Water freely with patience, and cultivate with compassion and understanding.
Kindness makes a difference. Have a beautiful day!
Top: River Garden employees enjoyed a tasty appreciation gift from Gili’s Restaurant. Thank you Ricki Ben Simon and Chef Gili. Middle left: College student Cole Westbrook delivered nearly 60 face shields and 150 mask straps for our clinical team. He made these by organizing 3D printers in Jacksonville. What an effort.
Middle right: Dovie Tinana, APRN, modeled sanitizer donated by local manufacturer, ISEL. They provided two cases of product at no charge to River Garden. Bottom: CitiBank employees, via postable.com, sent 50+ letters are from staff coast-to-coast, Maine to California. Kari Bell delivered these notes of encouragement to brighten the day for residents and staff.
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GOODBYE AND SHALOM TO THE SUES By Danielle Wirsansky, Jewish Community Alliance
Suzanne Johnson began working at Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten in 1995. Sue Berka began in 2004. This May, at the end of the school year, both women retired from their shared position of office assistant at the school. During her tenure at the school, Johnson served in various positions, including Grasshopper lead educator, kindergarten assistant and Teddy Bear Lead before finally becoming one of the school’s office assistants. “Suzanne is super smart and an amazing educator; very loving and clear about boundaries. In the office, she is incredibly organized, focused, efficient and hard working,” Early Childhood Education Director Theresa Levy said. “Her sense of humor got us through many
challenges over the years!” Berka has always been a part of the office team where she endeared herself to all the faculty members and Suzanne Johnson families. “Sue was with.” always so kind and loving to Beloved by co-workers, the children and went out of students and families for her way to be helpful to the years, Johnson and Berka parents. Her genuine have made an impression on concern was palpable,” Block Gan’s Administrative Coordinator Donna Jacoby said. “She was a team player and always went above and beyond to help out. She always had a warm smile and a great sense of humor. The Sues made a great team and were super fun to work
congratulations
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Sue Berka
so many little lives and their families. Both will be sorely missed by all at Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten.
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answering the call By Laurie Berger
W
hen the COVID-19 lockdown started at the end of March, I thought about the elderly in our Jewish community and those who are facing the impact of the virus alone and may need help. I contacted Vickie Kennedy, Director of Education at Beth El – The Beaches Synagogue and expressed to her that I would be here should any volunteer opportunities arise. She told me she would let me know as soon as something came up. About a week later, Vickie called and connected me with Jewish Family & Community Services’ Phone-a-Friend program for seniors and Holocaust survivors. I was matched with Natalya, a Holocaust survivor. Other than being a survivor, I knew virtually nothing about Natalya, and I was very nervous the first time I dialed her number. Once Natalya answered my call, my nervousness immediately went away. I told her who I was and why I was calling and she welcomed me with open arms. I told Natalya a little bit about myself and my family. My son, Ethan, became a Bar Mitzvah in January and my 10-year-old daughter, Jordyn loves music and playing trumpet. When I mentioned music, Natalya shared her love of the subject. In the Ukraine, Natalya was a singer, a conductor and started the first Jewish choir at the music conservatory in Kiev. When she came to the United States, she did the same in Denver, Colorado. I asked her if she would be willing to sing something for me. She hesitated and quietly agreed. She chose to sing a Jewish song that she said the Jews would sing in the concentration camps instead of crying. It brought tears to my eyes and I felt so thankful that she was willing to open up like that. I called Natalya weekly. Each time she
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expressed gratitude and appreciation for my calls and the time we spend together. Natalya continued to tell me about her life, her accomplishments and her struggles. She occasionally sang and played piano for me. My daughter played trumpet for her. The last time we spoke my daughter played Hatikva for her. I feel so blessed to have “met” her and can’t wait to visit Natalya in person when the pandemic is over. She told me when I come I must bring Jordyn and her trumpet. What started as me reaching out to help the elderly during this challenging time has become a journey I never imagined I would be on. I have never had a personal relationship with a Holocaust survivor. I am grateful for Natalya and that my children can learn from her. It’s important to keep the stories of the Holocaust alive and relevant for future generations. Natalya has given me that opportunity in a very personal way for me and my family.
Laurie, Ethan, Jordyn and Ira Berger
outreach REACHING OUT
By Lorna Wittenrich, Jewish Family and Community Services
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, there have been myriad concerns about mental health. Social isolation, while necessary, has taken a toll on us as a community. Finding silver linings amid the disarray of a pandemic can be difficult, and for many, it still seems impossible. But in our work at Jewish Family & Community Services’ Dupont Counseling Group, there have been notable positive outcomes that are worth celebrating—and sharing. As providers of mental health services, our community relies on us to foster the development of cognitive and emotional skills that allow them to cope with life’s many challenges. They look to us to help support them as they work to discover deeper purpose and connection in
their lives. In light of the pandemic, our agency spent countless hours creating a game plan that would still allow us to provide these urgentlyneeded services to the community. As the number of local coronavirus cases became increasingly unsettling, our counseling group transitioned our in-person services to tele-counseling: video chats or phone meetings that effectively serve as a remote counseling session. To date, we’ve held more than 800 of these sessions with both new and existing clients. What we realized is that we have actually been able to reach more clients than we ever expected, and we’ve reached people who historically had trouble receiving services before. Our counselors have had the opportunity to connect with many individuals whose mental health state was so overwhelming that we rarely saw them in our office. Clients who would
regularly reschedule appointments—or skip them outright—are now showing up on the screen right on time. Many have told us that on their worst days, the burden of physically getting out of bed and heading to their counseling session was oftentimes too difficult. Tele-counseling removes that barrier, so the client is able to connect with a counselor from anywhere.
“We’ve reached people who historically had trouble receiving services before.” And it opens doors for our counselors as it gives them even more insight into the home environment that the clients are experiencing and how that affects their mental health. What was once a picture of life at home described to us at the office is now a live look at the exact details,
which is immensely helpful in creating effective treatment plans. Our work during the COVID-19 crisis has expanded our capabilities and deepened our relationships with clients in unexpected ways, but the silver lining that shines brightest is our vision for the future of counseling—a direct result of the successes we’ve seen in our clients. Tele-counseling is beginning to be appreciated not just as a workaround, but as a mainstay method of critical mental health services. We hope that other agencies will continue to adapt and offer new methods of connection so that we can build a stronger community, regardless of the difficult times surrounding us. Lorna Wittenrich is a licensed mental health counselor and director of clinical services at Jewish Family & Community Services’ Dupont Counseling Group. For more information or to get help, visit JFCSJax. org.
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SEE AND BE SCENE THROUGH THE LENS IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA
DuBow Preschool teachers recently stopped by some homes to visit a few students during the school closure due to COVID-19. They sure do miss their students!
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SEE AND BE SCENE
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THROUGH THE LENS IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Mother’s Day was certainly different this year than ever before! Thanks to ‘moms’ – and all the women in our lives - who support, love & nurture us. Your heroic efforts are sometimes overlooked or taken for granted, but always appreciated! Happy Mother’s Day to some of the moms at River Garden: (l to r) Marilyn Stein, Alois Gendzier and Rose Plotkin
While no technology can take the place of real human interaction, River Garden residents and members of The Coves have enjoyed using Zoom to meet with friends and family. If you need help connecting with a loved one at River Garden, please call Leslie Held, Laura Platzer or Kari Bell at (904) 260-1818. Pictured above: Helene Coleman celebrates her birthday via Zoom.
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NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE
Martin J. Gottlieb Day School students celebrated graduation two weeks before the actual event with a virtual graduation. The graduation ceremony highlighted each student with individual speeches, diplomas, and a slide show that featured the students’ experiences from preschool until now. Yard signs allowed them to proclaim their pride, cakes were prepared for each family, and we held a class party at an Escape Room (online of course).
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Lorene Minton celebrates her 102nd birthday. Congratulations!
WORTH THE SCHLEP V I R T U A L E V E N T S YO U C A N E X P E R I E N C E AT H O M E
CONGREGATION AHAVATH CHESED THE TEMPLE Sisterhood’s Jewish Book Review with Goldie via Zoom June 3 at 1:30 p.m. Join Sisterhood in a discussion led by Goldie Lansky of The Weight of Ink by Rachel Kadish. Contact Laurie at legsimmons@gmail.com to receive your emailed invitation. The Temple’s Torah Study Saturdays 9:00 a.m. Join the clergy to explore and discuss the weekly Torah portion and the Haftarah. To RSVP and receive the Zoom code, go to: https://forms.gle/ oTYxw9Aj483QrDLy9 Understanding Israel Today Part 4 taught by Harvey Leven, M.A. June 23 at 7:15 p.m. The final in his four part series, Harvey Leven will discuss Israel & The Palestinians: One State, Two States, or Even Three States. RSVP to rsvp@ thetemplejax.org. Admission is free for Temple members and $10 per session for non-Temple members. Tickets can be purchased at thetemplejax. square.site Wisdom via Zoom Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. Wisdom is not Torah Study, but the teachings from Torah and other learned Jewish texts are often referenced. Wisdom meets
every Tuesday at 10:30 AM. This group focuses its discussion on contemporary issues viewed through a Jewish lens. Share some wisdom, gain some wisdomeveryone is welcome. RSVP Here: https://forms.gle/ m7PNxwtnhzLVhjpt5
JACKSONVILLE JEWISH CENTER Shabbat Morning Live with the Center’s Clergy Team Saturdays at 9:30 am Click Here to Join Havdalah: Close Shabbat with Hazzan Holzer and your Center Family Saturdays at 8:40 pm (this time will change each Saturday to be slightly later) Click Here to Join
Rosenblum Wednesdays at 11:00 am Click Here to Join Coping with Loss…with Beth Shorstein Wednesdays at 3:00 pm Click here to join Families with Young Children — Bedtime Sh’ma and a Story Wednesdays at 7:00 pm Click Here to Join Your Coffee, Our Torah: Parshat Online Discussion Thursdays at 11:00 am Click Here to Join Mishnah with Justin hosted by Justin Sakofs
Thursdays at 3:30pm Click Here to Join
JELF No Go Virtual Fundraising Event June 17 at 7:15 p.m. JELF.org, a non-profit that provides financial aid to Jewish undergrad, grad and vocational students, will host a 45-minute virtual fundraising event at JELF.org/nogo2020. The event features a conversation with Dr. Angela Duckworth, famed author of the best-seller “Grit – The Power of Passion and Perseverance.”
Sunday Morning Services Sundays at 8:30 am Click Here to Join Weekday Morning Services Monday through Friday at 8:00 am Click Here to Join Weekday Evening Services Sunday through Thursday at 8:00 pm Click Here to Join Learning with Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner Mondays at 7:00 pm Click Here to Join Healing Service hosted by Hazzan Jesse Holzer Tuesdays at 5:00 pm Click Here to Join From the Rabbi’s Kitchen to Yours…with Rabbi Shira
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COMMUNITY RESOURCES HELP ACROSS NORTHEAST FLORIDA Admissions 904-886-8420 Adult Day 904-288-7858 Home Health Care 904-288-7851 Outpatient Rehab 904-886-8454 The Coves 904-292-2683 Volunteers 904-886-8429 Foundation 904-886-8430 MAIN 904-260-1818
River Garden is the go-to resource for high-quality adult care in Jacksonville. Honoring our Jewish traditions, the dedicated staff, leadership and volunteers are all committed to a best-inclass experience. Whether it is for you, your spouse, parents or friend, be sure to request River Garden.
PJ Library, the awardwinning 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 904-394-5724.
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, contact Nicole Brown at 904-394-5724
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 Nicole Andrews at 904-394 -5810 for more information.
Become a Jewish Healing Network volunteer at JFCS and help us fulfill the mitzvah of Bikkur Cholim. We need volunteers to make weekly visits or phone calls to a senior or deliver food to those who cannot get out. For more information, call Hilary Rotenberg at 904-394-5722
FEDERATION 2019 ALLOCATIONS: Jewish Community Alliance: $189,250 Jewish Family & Community Services: $272,000 River Garden Hebrew Home: $177,700 Martin J Gottlieb Day School: $112,000 Torah Academy of Jacksonville: $46,000 Overseas Allocation - JFNA: $684,130 Other Organizations: $56,160 23
We're looking forward to seeing you again. Our offices are located inside the Jewish Community Alliance campus, so please be sure to review the guidelines and procedures listed on their website before visiting us: www.jcajax.org. Our website continues to list resources to help small businesses, families, and those who are left vulnerable during this time. As our community begins the reopening proces s, we will also be sharing important dates and details as they are announced. For the most current information visit: www.jewishjacksonville.org/ covid19resources.
Im\ďż˝ Jewish& Foundation Federation OF NORTHEAST FI.ORIOA
jewishjacksonvi Ile.org