March Northeast Florida Jewish Life Magazine by JewishLife Magazine

NORTHEAST FLORIDA

Jewish Life A PUB LICAT I O N 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

Passover

RECIPES INSIDE

celebrating A NIGHT

OUT

MARCH 2020 - NISSAN 5780 VOL. 32 NO. 17 | jewishjacksonville.org photo credit: Ivy Kfare, Jacksonville Jewish Center

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congratulations

Mary Edwards, recipent of The Joe. P Safer Community Service Award Stefanie Levine and Jeff Rood, recipents of The Ilene Sari Selevan Young Leadership Award

contents 5 COMMUNITY “IT WILL COME TO YOU” BE QUESTIONS WITH KELLIE SMITH FEATURES SECRET TO THE PERFECT SEDER

L’DOR V’DOR JFCS HONORS THE FRISCH FAMILY MIDDLE SCHOOL MITZVA

WORTH THE SCHLEP PURIM PASOVER SEDER

SCENE AND BE SEEN A NIGHT OUT WITH FEDERATION SIP AND SCHMOOZE

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

11 14

17 25

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LETTER FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Thank you everyone who attended our second annual A Night Out with Federation last month. Attendance was up—we had more than 100 attendees over last year’s event—and there was representation from every organization that the Federation and Foundation touches. These organizations continue to thrive with support from YOUR donations. A huge thanks to our friend Ben Becker who emceed our first-ever live telecast of the Super Sunday pledge drive. Thank you also to all of the representatives from our partner agencies that broadcasted with Ben, telling in their own words how the Federation and Foundation dollars help them. Nearly

3,000 Facebook followers tuned in live to hear stories from the agencies and Jewish day schools. Our volunteers made over 1,300 calls, securing your pledges for 2020. We raised over $140,000 in just one day but are still shy of our goal. There’s still time to make your pledge with the card on page 14. Join us in making a difference in our community! Purim is just days away, but in the publishing world we’re always a holiday ahead. This issue is dedicated to some of our favorite Passover recipes from our volunteers. Bookmark the pages, and refer to them as you’re planning your Seder in the coming weeks. If you only read one article in this issue, let it be the one written by Haley Trager, our Women’s Philanthropy Chair, represented our community at the at the National Young Leadership Shabbat Mission to Mexico City earlier this year. You can read more about her experience on page 11. Happy Purim and Passover season everyone!

Alan Margolies Federation Executive Director

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 Your Strategists, LLC Communications & Editorial Team jjn@jewishjacksonville.org

Rachael McGahee Comm. Assistant & Layout Designer rachaelm@jewishjacksonville.org Ellen Cohen Wilcox Sales Representative es_cohen@yahoo.com

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“IT WILL COME TO YOU”

By: Suzie Becker

I attended the Israel Partnership’s Educator Delegation sponsored by the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida this past December. For nearly 20 years, this program has cultivated relationships between educators in global Jewish and Israeli communities. I traveled on a bus through Israel with a diverse group of educators from the southeast U.S.; some had visited Israel, some hadn’t; some were Jewish by birth, some by choice, some not at all; and each of us had a different background and

affiliation. But we all shared one thing: a connection to Israel. We toured and learned alongside Israeli educators who became our host families (and friends for life) for a unique Shabbat experience. My hostess Iris Regev, a physical education teacher from Karkur, showed me what her Israel looks like, and we spoke about what being a mother, educator, and woman is like in Israel and the U.S. We visited several schools in Israel. Halfway into a wonderful, interactive session at Ramat Hanadiv, I asked the educational programs

coordinator what the intention of this trip was. “Wait,” she said prophetically, “it will come to you.” In small group workshops and larger presentations and discussions, my new educator friends and I shared our collective goals and strategies to nurture acceptance, kindness, and good will, alongside innovation as a path to happier and well-rounded students, children, and communities as global citizens. We discussed our opinions about what being culturally Jewish means in the U.S. and in Israel. However, I learned the most

from engaging with students. At Hadera High School where students create and build international prize-winning robots, they also take pride in their partnership club with students from the neighboring Arab village to develop leadership skills. In the end, we all had different opinions about our favorite foods, music, and holidays. We didn’t all pray the same, and we didn’t think anything of it. This trip was a meaningful experience that developed a connection to people, place, culture, and experiences.

NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE

BEQUESTIONS WITH KELLIE SMITH

This month’s question comes to us from Carin in Atlantic Beach: “Will the SECURE Act affect my ability to donate directly to charity through my IRA?” Utilizing your IRA to donate to charity is a unique avenue of philanthropy that we have discussed in past issues, and there no better time than the present to review some critical updates to pension law that could have an impact on your gift planning for the future. Late last year, Congress enacted “The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act of 2019” (SECURE Act). It is the most significant pension reform law in more than a decade. The SECURE Act, which became effective as of January 1, 2020, makes several important changes in the tax rules for qualified pension plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). If you have substantial pension and IRA holdings, it is imperative that you review these changes and their potential impact on your estate and gift plan. The changes will have considerable repercussions for retirement and wealth transfer planning, especially in the area of accelerating taxation of inherited IRAs. Here are a few significant

provisions in the SECURE Act that could affect you: Increase in Age for Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). The Act raises the trigger age for taking RMDs from 70 ½ to 72. If you did not reach age 70 ½ in 2019 or earlier, you will not be subject to RMDs until the year after you turn 72. Removal of Age Limitation for Contributions to Traditional IRAs. If you have earned income, you may be eligible to make deductible contributions to a traditional IRA regardless of age. Previously, individuals were prohibited from making contributions beginning in the year they turned 70 ½. IRA Charitable Rollover Age Unchanged. The Act does not change the age of 70 ½ years at which you become eligible to take advantage of the IRA Charitable Rollover and make Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from your IRA directly to a charity. This means that even if you are not yet required to take RMDs, you may benefit from the IRA Charitable Rollover if you are age 70 ½ or over. Note, however, that your QCDs will be reduced by any post-age 70 ½ deductible IRA contributions. Elimination of most “Stretch” IRA distributions. Prior to enactment of the SECURE Act, an individual beneficiary of a retirement plan could leave plan assets in a tax-deferred status for many years by spreading annual withdrawals over the life expectancy of a younger beneficiary in what was called a “Stretch IRA.” The SECURE Act changed that.

With limited exceptions, it requires inheritors other than your spouse to take full distribution within 10 years, possibly increasing the tax bite. You may want to designate the Foundation as your IRA beneficiary and create a Legacy Fund where you can support one or more charities in perpetuity while leaving other assets to family members. Alternative to Stretch IRA. As an alternative to a Stretch IRA, consider making a charitable remainder trust the tax-free beneficiary of IRA assets and provide for (taxable) trust payments of a fixed dollar amount or a percentage of the trust’s assets to your heirs over

their lifetimes. The SECURE Act can have a profound impact on your estate plan. No matter how you choose to utilize your IRA and pension holdings, I would urge you to consult with charitable giving professionals and your own professional advisors to assure that your plans are updated for these and other important changes. If you’d like to discuss using your IRA to create a Legacy Fund and support the causes that mean the most to you, call Kellie Smith at 904-512-3796.

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BACK TO THE BRONX & GOING TO BROOKLYN

By: Isabel Balotin, Shalom Jacksonville Director

The Jewish Federation and Foundation and River Garden hosted more than 70 former Bronx residents and other New Yorkers who enjoyed a very nostalgic program by writer Steve Samtur. During his slide presentation, Steve encouraged the audience to acknowledge the famous stores, eateries, stadiums, Bronx Zoo, Freedomland, beaches and more by shouting “Yo!” It was a delightful (and noisy) event, and many stayed afterwards to share their memories with old and new friends. Feeling neglected, some former Brooklyn residents requested a similar program. If you would

like to share your memories of this famous New York borough, please contact me, Isabel Balotin, (904) 224-1408 or shalomjax@ jewishjacksonville. org. I will always have a very special place in my heart for Brooklyn. Before moving to the Catskills, we lived in Williamsburg the first five years of my life and returned often to visit many in my family who lived in Sheepshead Bay, Canarsie and Bensonhurst.

L-R Leslie Held, Steve Samtur and Isabel Balotin, Photo credits: Andrea Marks

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Vashti’s Shuk!

The JJC Sisterhood Judaica Shop’s Annual Clearance Sale on Select Items On Display in the Jacksonville Jewish Center Lobby

Sunday, March 8, 2020 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

5780 Calendars, Apple/Honey Supplies, Aprons, Bookends, Books (Adult), Candles, Candlesticks, Challah Covers, Challah Trays, Children’s Books, Collectible Dreidels, Cutting Boards, Greeting Cards, Hamsas, Hanukkah Menorahs, Hanukkah Slippers, Holiday Puzzles, Jewelry, Key Chains, Kiddush Cups, Kippot, Matzah Covers, Matzah Plates, Mezuzahs, Michael Aram, Money Clips, Nambe, Passover Games, Personalized Puzzle That Reads Yakov (in Hebrew), Personalized Stool That Reads Zachary, Personalized Stuffed Lamb That Reads Rivka (in Hebrew), Picture Frames, Prints, Quest Collection Goods, Rolling Pins (Adjustable), Round Challah Boards, Seder Plates, Stuffed Toys, Tallises, Tallis Bags, Tallis Clips, Teellin Bags, Teellin Covers, Trivets, Tzedakah Boxes, Wedding Wrapping Paper, Wine Bottle Stoppers, Yads & MORE!

We will be discounting all tallises an additional 10% at the sale. (100 designs to choose from)

Sisterhood Judaica Shop at the Jacksonville Jewish Center 3662 Crown Point Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32257 904-292-1000 judaicashop@jaxjewishcenter.org @jjcsisterhoodjudaicashop

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WE MUST SUPPORT ISRAEL AND FIGHT ANTI-SEMITISM reprinted from Jewish News Syndicate

By: Jason Fischer, Florida House of Representatives

My first visit to Israel was incredible. It was a privilege to visit America’s closest ally in the Middle East as part of a delegation of state legislators from around the country. It was amazing to be able to meet with government officials, learn about the security situation facing Israel, see some of the history of Israel and the Jewish people first-hand, and learn more about the challenges Israel faces from the reprehensible BDS movement. The meetings with government officials on the trip were an invaluable aid in learning about Israel. It was a privilege to be able to meet with Ambassador David Friedman and members of

the Israeli Knesset. Their perspective on current events in the Middle East and Israel was informative. Learning about Israel’s security situation was an extremely moving part of the trip. Our delegation visited Sderot, a city in Israel that is on the border with Gaza and is constantly under rocket attacks from Hamas. In Sderot, there are bomb shelters everywhere, even on playgrounds. It was shocking to hear that a person in Sderot has 15 seconds from when a rocket siren sounds to take cover. As a parent, I cannot imagine driving somewhere when the siren is going off and having to get my family out of the car and to a bomb shelter in 15 seconds. I also took a tour of one of the terror tunnels that Hamas dug to attack Israel. My tour of Sderot reaffirmed my belief that Hamas is a terrorist organization, and that there is no moral equivalence between the Israel Defense Forces and Hamas.

See FISCHER p. 45

JFCS BOARD FOCUS STEVE SHERMAN

By: Ryan Allison

Steve Sherman is senior vice president and wealthmanagement advisor at the Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida Merrill Lynch Wealth Management office. He is a graduate of Florida State University with a degree in accounting. Originally from New Jersey, Steve started in the investment industry in 1985 and joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 1989. He has been a training advisor to the firm in its corporate headquarters, as well as a manager in Jacksonville, Florida. Steve's ability to tailor intricate strategies to clients’ situations is a true attribute and is appreciated by all of his clients. Steve is a past president of the Jewish Community Alliance, a past board member of the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida, and a past board member of the Jewish Federation and Foundation of Northeast Florida. He is also a graduate of Leadership Jacksonville. Steve currently serves on the advisory board of the Jewish Community

Alliance Foundation, is a board member of the University of North Florida Foundation Board, and is the newest board member of Jewish Family & Community Services. He also serves on the board of the Southern Legal Counsel. In 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013, Steve was named as one of Barron’s Top 1,000 Advisors List and in 2019 and 2020 was named as the Forbes “Bestin-State Wealth Advisors." Thank you, Steve, for your commitment to JFCS and the community.

RIVER GARDEN RECEIVES NINTH GOLD SEAL

By: River Garden Senior Services

In January, River Garden Hebrew Home for the Aged received its ninth Governor’s Gold Seal Award for Excellence in Long-Term Care. Of the hundreds of nursing homes in Florida, River Garden is the only free-standing skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility to earn this distinction

nine times. Created in 2002, the Gold Seal Program recognizes Florida nursing homes that “demonstrate excellence in long-term care over a sustained period, promotes the stability of the industry, and facilitates the physical, social, and emotional wellbeing of nursing home facility residents." The award designation stands for a three-year term.

NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE

FROM JACKSONVILLE TO POLAND

By: Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum

Our very own Rabbi Fisch went on a journey to Poland this past summer. He led a small group from Jacksonville, Florida that visited some of the darkest areas of Jewish History, which included the Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp, Madajnek, and the Warsaw Ghetto. The visit also included visiting some of the sites of the rich Jewish History from the last 1,000 years.

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AM YISRAEL CHAI: CABINET RETURNS FROM MEXICO CITY By: Rabbi David Kessel, The Jewish Federations of North America

In January, the National Young Leadership Cabinet met in Mexico City for a three-day Shabbat experience. Haley Trager represented Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida at this event. Mexico’s Jewish communal organizations mirror those in the U.S. and Canada, and– while Jews have lived in Mexico for over 500 years– the largest waves of immigration took place

following the Holocaust, when Mexico’s Jewish institutional infrastructure was established. The Comite Central de la Comunidad Judia/Central Committee of the Jewish Community formed in 1938 to help Jews fleeing Europe following Kristallnacht. The Cabinet experienced the sweep of Mexican Jewish history, from the first synagogue founded in 1885, to the Jewish Documentation

& Research Center, which opened last January. Following World War II, the Mexican Jewish community had a building boom, including two magnificent, modern campuses we visited: the Colegio Hebreo Monte Sinai/ Monte Sinai Jewish Community School and the Centro Deportivo Israelita/ Jewish Sports Center or JCC. The Monte Sinai community

campus had state-of-the-art facilities and multiple buildings, including a synagogue, athletic center, science and technology labs, as well as a beautiful outdoor pavilion with panoramic views of Mexico City. The Jewish Sports Center is one of the largest JCCs in the world, with over 18,000 members.

See KESSEL p. 46

VOLUNTEER ROCKSTAR: SHERI TRAGER WEISS

By: Donna O’Steen

Sheri Trager Weiss is a familiar fixture at Jewish Family & Community Services. In 2016, 2017 and 2018, she served as the chair of the JFCS Holiday Gift Giving program and spent many a December day working with staff to fulfill holiday wish lists. In 2019, she helped JFCS ensure that over 1,700 children and 52 seniors had gifts for Chanukah and/or Christmas. Sheri also participated in the inaugural Foster Teen Birthday celebration. She was

one of six women who kick-started the program. She purchased gifts, a cake, and lunch for an 18-year-old boy who had never celebrated a birthday. She then assisted the boy with finding a job and moving into his own apartment, plus she provided furnishings for all the comforts of home. Sheri also serves on the JFCS Development Committee and the Annual Event Committee throughout the year. She is available to lend a helping hand if needed. In her spare time, Sheri loves to play tennis, hang out with her

friends, and enjoy time with her husband, Jeff, two daughters, Shelby and Jolie, as well as her pets. Not only does Sheri go above and beyond for JFCS, she also does it for the entire community. She sees the need and does not hesitate to step in and provide assistance. Sheri is the heart of everything she does. She is a true JFCS Volunteer Rockstar!

The entire community is invited to an

INTERFAITH MISSION TO ISRAEL JULY 19 – 27, 2020 Presented by the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida

HIGHLIGHTS TO INCLUDE: • The most important Jewish and Christian Sites throughout Israel • Old Jaffa • The new Museum of the Jewish People in Tel Aviv • Our partnership community of Hadera • Caesaria • Ancient city of Dan • Acco • Golan Heights • Safed • Mount of Beatitudes

• • • • • • • • • • •

Kayaking on the Jordan River Nazareth Archeological finds at City of David The Western Wall Shabbat in Jerusalem Yad Vashem Massada and the Dead Sea Mount of Olives Church of the Holy Sepulchre 5-Star Hotels The tastes, sounds, culture and history of Israel

To learn more about this unique opportunity to explore Israel and to learn about these two faiths, please contact Federation Executive Director Alan Margolies, at 904.224.1410 or alanm@jewishjacksonville.org.

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HARRY SHMUNES CELEBRATED AS MINYANNAIRE OF THE YEAR

Throughout the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s rich 120 year history, there may not be an accomplishment more significant than having a continuous daily minyan. Each day, twice a day, our members gather in the morning and evening for prayer. It has helped build and strengthen this congregational community and

provides an opportunity to help those in need of a minyan so they may recite the kaddish in memory of their departed loved one. Many of our members, affectionately called “Minyannaires”, take on the responsibility of attending one, two or more of these services each week. For the past five years, we have celebrated these members during a special Minyannaires Shabbat, where they are featured participants throughout the morning service. We have also honored one member who has gone over and above to make sure that our daily minyan thrives and flourishes. This year, The Center

GO GREEN DURING TIYUL TO SHUL

By: Danielle Berke

This year’s Jacksonville Jewish Center intergenerational Tiyul to Shul is Shabbat morning, April 4. This award-winning program encourages worshipers to walk together to and from Shabbat services. By getting out of our vehicles and strolling with others to synagogue, we increase our appreciation of the outdoors and create an enhanced sense of Shabbat community. This year our theme is “Going Green,” pointing toward a healthier and more mindful appreciation of the environment, as well as Shabbat’s significant potential to reduce our carbon footprint in this time of climate change. In keeping with the theme, services will take place outside at the Center’s Beth Shalom Park, beginning at 9 a.m.,

and include Birkat Ha’Ilanot, a special blessing recited in the month of Nisan as trees come into bloom. All are welcome to join us, no matter how they arrive! In the coming weeks, the Jacksonville Jewish Center community will group those interested in walking together from various meeting points at staggered times. Cognizant that many do not live within walking distance of the synagogue, there will be designated “Park-’NWalk” locations so that more people can meet up and participate in Tiyul to Shul. Additional information will be distributed to the community through Center communications. Please call the Center at 292-1000 if you are interested in joining a Tiyul-toShul group.

proudly honored Harry Shmunes as our sixth annual Scott Zimmerman Minyannaire of the Year. In the early 1960s, a teenage Harry worked 8th Street Pic N’ Save, along with Sam Bennett, a Center member and store manager. They would receive phone calls for additional men needed to make a minyan. Harry and others would briefly leave their jobs to run over the Center and return after minyan. Harry’s supermarket career took him to Gainesville, where he married his beloved wife Joni in 1978 and where their three children, Adam, Ilana, and Ross, were born.

He eventually returned to Jacksonville and joined the Center to ensure their Jewish education. As he moved up the corporate ladder, it became somewhat easier for him to attend the Center’s minyan on an occasional basis. After a brief move to Chicago in the 1990s, he returned to Jacksonville and was able to regularly attend minyan in the mornings. In 2005, Marco Rand, then the chair of the religious committee, asked Harry if he could take on the responsibility of minyan captain for that day.

See SHMUNES p. 46

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SUPERSUNDAY LIVE The Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida extends a huge THANK YOU to our selfless volunteers, lay leaders, donors, sponsors, partner representatives, and those who tuned in to watch this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Super Sunday LIVE phone-athon, a community first! With your support, we were able to raise $142,406 in just ONE DAY which will go so far in supporting Jewish services and programs across Northeast Florida and around the world. We would like to sincerely thank the following supporters: Gary and Nancy Perlman, our Super Sunday sponsors, for their longtime support of this significant day, along with Super Sunday LIVE 2020 chair, Jeff Rood, as well as Ben Becker, our Facebook live reporter for his time, support, and energy on Super Sunday. Ben kept our viewers laughing and engaged the entire time while allowing everyone who took part in the day a chance to shine, highlighting the important work that they do. To see a few of our favorite photos from that day please check out our Facebook page.

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR WONDERFUL EVENT PARTNERS!

Photo Credit: Tallis Photography

However, even with all of your support we still have not met our goal with enough funds to support the partner agencies you care about. Please go online and donate today on our secure website, http://bit.ly/ SSPayment2020 or cut out the pledge card below and mail it to: 8505 San Jose Boulevard Jacksonville FL 32217. Please note, your pledge is payable through December 31, 2020. Watch for more highlights from Super Sunday in our April issue of JLM.

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NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE

ere is the secret, there is no such thing as a perfect seder, so let’s set ourselves up to control what we can and not worry about the rest. It is very difficult to please every guest when you are asking them to sit in their chair for the looooong seder meal. Within 30 minutes of arrival everyone will find something that is “not their favorite” but will politely put up with it because of their love for you. So that is where we are going focus to achieve perfection. The love. Let me explain. The key to the perfect seder is to find one thing that will make each guest feel included or special...in their own way. For example, Uncle Mike always complains about the Manischewitz wine, so this year grab one bottle of Moscato d’asti and put it in front of his spot with a name tag. The kids love matzo balls but hate gefilte fish, so this year surprise them with a random matzo ball on their plate instead of fish for a laugh. Bubbie may always complain about the brisket (because it is not how she makes it) but has a sweet spot for chocolate. Make sure to grab a fun chocolate item for her to dote over. (I happen to know that The Fresh Market is going to have chocolate seder plates this year!) Have a guest coming that you know nothing about? Order some jumping frog toys from Amazon and secretly hand them to the guest asking them to surprise the group during the 10 plagues by having them jump around the table. This way, even though you will not be able to achieve perfection in everyone’s eyes, each person has a “warm and fuzzy” moment to think back on and be happy about...and that - in its own way - IS perfection. We asked members of the community to help you achieve “perfect seder love” this year by telling us their favorite Passover recipes. Perhaps one of these recipes can make your guests smile and help them leave your seder with that warm, fuzzy and FULL feeling. Chag kasher v’same’ach everyone.

By: Deborah Shapiro

enjoy our community’s favorite Passover recipes on the following pages.

Chocolate Chip Meringues

By: Haley Trager Women’s Philanthropy Lion of Judah Chair

INGREDIENTS: 2 egg whites 3/4 cup sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 1/4 tsp. salt 1 cup mini chocolate chips 1 cup broken pecans (optional) INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 350ºF. Line 2 cookie sheets with aluminum foil. 2. With an electric mixer, beat egg whites until peaks begin to form. Slowly add sugar. 3. Add vanilla and salt. Beat until everything is very still and very shiny. 4. Fold in pecans and chocolate chips. 5. Drop by teaspoon onto prepared cookie sheets and place in 350ºF oven. Turn off the oven and forget the cookies until the next morning. ***Don’t make these cookies on a rainy day.

My Grandmother's Apple Farfel Kugel By: Ben Marsh Young Professionals & Families Chair INGREDIENTS: 3 cups matzo fearful 1/2 cup raisins 1/4 cup melted butter 1 cup sugar 3 large apples, sliced 5 eggs, well beaten 1 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. lemon zest INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 350ºF. 2. Soak farfel until soft. Drain and press out water. 3. In a large bowl combine farfel, raisins, butter, sugar, apples, eggs, cinnamon and zest. 4. Bake in a greased 9 x 13-inch pan at 350ºF for 45 minutes or until apples are tender.

Savta Leah's Matzah Cake By: Shylie Bannon Young Professionals & Families Past Chair

Rather than attempting to masquerade as a leavened cake, this recipe fully embraces the salty, crunchy texture of matzah and envelops it in a delicious, creamy chocolate frosting, reminiscent of the southern traditional icebox cake. My Savta Leah made this cake every year for Passover, when it often doubled as my birthday cake, and I have the sweetest memories of helping her dip the matzah in the Manischewitz, and licking the bowl after making the frosting. You can top this cake with the traditional coconut or crushed hazelnuts, or, if you're feeling more festive, use colored sugars.

INGREDIENTS 3.5 oz. (100 grams) good quality dark chocolate 7 oz. (200 grams) margarine for pareve cake, butter for dairy 3.5 oz. (100 grams) confectionerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s/powdered sugar 2 Tbsp. cocoa powder 1 tsp. Nescafe or other instant coffee crystals

2 Tbsp. Cherry Herring (optional, or can substitute any liqueur) Manischewitz wine (grape or blackberry flavor) 1 box kosher for Passover Matzah Topping of choice: shredded coconut, crushed hazelnuts, slivered almonds, sprinkles or dessert sugar

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Create a double boiler on your stove by filling a saucepan with two-inches of water, then placing a heat-proof bowl directly over the saucepan so it rests in the saucepan, but does not touch the water. Break the chocolate into relatively uniform sized chunks, and add to the bowl with a splash of water. Melt slowly by heating the saucepan on medium heat, stirring the chocolate frequently to ensure it does not burn or seize. Remove from heat. 2. In a stand mixer fixed with a paddle attachment or using a hand mixer with the standard beater attachments, combine margarine, sugar, cocoa powder and Nescafe until fluffy. 3. Add the melted chocolate to the margarine mixture and mix again until incorporated and fluffy. The texture should be light and easily spreadable. 4. If incorporating liqueur, add the Cherry Herring and mix again until just incorporated.

5. In a baking dish or casserole dish large enough to accommodate a standard piece of matzah, pour Manischewitz wine until it is deep enough to soak a piece of matzah. 6. Prepare a cake stand, matzah plate, or other plate large enough to accommodate a piece of matzah laying flat. 7. Dip a piece of matzah in the wine so that it is fully immersed. Remove from the wine, and place on the cake stand. 8. Spread a thin layer of frosting on top of the soaked matzah. 9. Repeat steps 7 and 8, laying soaked matzah on frosting, until you have about 6-8 layers of matzah. Make sure you leave enough frosting that you will be able to coat the sides and top of the cake. 10. Add topping of choice, and place in the refrigerator to chill. To serve, cut into small squares, and enjoy!

Leah’s Knaidelah

By: Leah Ben Yehuda, Jacksonville Hadassah

For as long as Matza Balls (knaidelah) have been made by Jewish mothers and gourmet chefs, much debate is associated with what makes a good knaidelah. Should matzo balls be firm or fluffy? Plain or filled? Made with chicken fat, oil or marrow? Personally, I think I have come up with the perfect combination and wanted to share my recipe in the Passover edition. First, a little story. I worked with this recipe for some time and, when my husband and I lived in Lakeland, Florida, I developed this recipe for a seder we were having in our home. It served 35 people. Then, the next year, I was asked to make the kneidlach for the synagogue seder, where we were serving 160. I not only did this successfully, I now have a chart showing exact amounts for making matza balls for anywhere from 35 to 160 people, and several numbers in between! No matter how many knaidelah you make this year, here’s wishing you a Happy and Zissen Pesach. Leah’s Knaidelah (serves 35 people) INGREDIENTS: 10 eggs 5/8 cup any light oil (i.e., vegetable, canola; not peanut oil) 5/8 cup soup stock 2 1/2 cups matzah meal 1 teaspoon dried dill 1 teaspoon dried tarragon 1 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic 1/4 teaspoon white pepper INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Combine all ingredients until well mixed. Cover tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (can be kept in refrigerator for up to 2 days). 2. Drop by rounded teaspoons into simmering chicken soup. 3. Cover tightly and reduce heat to keep it simmering for 20 minutes. Can be made in 2 or 3 batches, depending on the size of your pot, and can be frozen, after it is made, for up to 2 months.

Delicious & Easy Passover Brisket

By: Barbara Jaffe, Past chair Investment Oversight, Foundation INGREDIENTS: 3 lbs. beef brisket 2 Tbsp. olive oil Salt and pepper for seasoning 16 oz. Coca-Cola (not diet) 1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce 1 package of dried French onion soup mix ½ cup dried plump apricots ½ cup of dried prunes ½ cup dried cherries ½ cup dried apple slices INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 325ºF. Sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of brisket. 2. On a stovetop, heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or deep oven safe skillet. When oil is hot, sear brisket on top, bottom, and sides until completely browned. 3. Turn heat off, add Coca-Cola and Worcestershire sauce to pan. Sprinkle dried soup mix on top of brisket. Cover pan and place in 325ºF oven for 2 ½ to 3 hours. 4. Add dried fruit to pan, incorporating fruit into brisket juice. Recover pan and place back in the 325ºF oven 20 minutes more or until brisket is tender. 5. Slice against the grain. Pour sauce and dried fruit over the top of the brisket. Serve hot and enjoy.

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JFCS HONORS THE FRISCH FAMILY By: Jewish Family & Community Services

Jewish Family & Community Services is privileged to honor the Frisch Family at our 2020 annual event, Impacting Today, Transforming Tomorrows, which will be held on April 2 at 6 p.m. at the Prime Osborn Convention Center. The Frisch family has played an integral role in JFCS’s success for many years, supporting the organization in deeply meaningful ways. During the Capital Campaign, the Frisch family named the first Holocaust Memorial Gallery to be opened between Miami and Atlanta, The Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery. The family felt compelled to have a place in the Jacksonville, Florida community where people could

learn about the Holocaust, as well as remember. Additionally, the space provides a safe place for Holocaust survivors and groups within the community to be educated about the atrocities that took place during World War II, and about the people who endured and survived them. “JFCS and other nonprofit organizations are so lucky to have supporters like the Frisch family. We see them all helping, from generation to generation. Each member of the family doesn’t just give generously, they also provide their time and talent to enhance the

community. The Frisch family is committed to making the Jacksonville community stronger and that is evident in everything that they do,” JFCS Executive Director Colleen Rodriguez said. The Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery is located in the Jewish Family & Community

Services Alan J. Taffet Building at 8540 Baycenter Road, and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about the Frisch Family and the Gallery, visit JacksonvilleHolocaustMemorial.com or contact Gail Furman at gallery@jfcsjax.org.

DAY AND RELIGIOUS SCHOOL STUDENTS CELEBRATE HAGGIGAT HASIDDUR By: Brian Pargman

Mazel Tov to first-grade students at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School and Bernard and Alice Selevan Religious School! The students recently participated in a service known as “Haggigat

HaSiddur” (receiving one’s prayer book). This ceremony acknowledges and celebrates the beginning of one’s Jewish educational journey. Continuing a special tradition, parents created a prayer book cover for their child as a keepsake. This morning was a wonderful opportunity for friends and family members to see our talented students lead an entire service in Hebrew—almost all by themselves! Again, Mazel Tov to our talented students and Toda Rabah to our teachers for their guidance!

NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE

MICHELE BLOCK GAN YELADIM PARENT AND ME PROGRAM REINVENTS ITSELF

By: Danielle Wirsansky

For the spring session of the program, Parent and Me is restructuring to offer the regular and most popular courses while adding some new classes into the mix. Many of the original classes that are remaining, like Story Time and Make Music, are changing days of the week; most classes are changing times to occur later in the day to be more conducive to the nap schedules of smaller children. New classes to the program include Toddler Yoga, taught by Gisela Reis, which will focus on the toddler’s

experience of yoga, and Family Yoga, which will take place on weekends to allow whole families to attend the sessions together. Michele Block Gan Yeladim Director Theresa Levy got her start at the school 28 years ago as the main instructor for the Parent and Me program, which offers classes and activities that are free and open to the community. “We have moved from a fee-based, mini-preschool day to a program that is free and open to the community and focuses on specialized classes like music, movement, literacy, aqua play, or sensory

experiences.,” says Levy. “The participants are making connections and building a support network.” For more information on

Parent and Me classes at Michele Block Gan Yeladim, visit jcajax.org/ece

MARTIN J. GOTTLIEB DAY SCHOOL ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Beth Greenburg Wolpoff

Beth Greenburg Wolpoff (’83) has worked for a variety of Jewish nonprofits over the past 25 years. After receiving her B.A. from George Washington University and taking graduate courses at the Jewish Theological Seminary, she moved back to the Washington, D.C. area. It was her love of Jewish education that drew her to working in the Jewish community. She began her career at a JJC overseeing children and family programs, including their day camp. Wolpoff later earned her Master of Social Work degree with a concentration in Planning & Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University

before moving to New Jersey where she met and married her husband, Howard. For the past nine years, Wolpoff has worked at River Garden Senior Services. She moved back to Jacksonville, Florida when her oldest son was just one year of age and she was expecting her second child. “I always wanted my children to grow up at the Jacksonville Jewish Center and attend the Day School,” Wolpoff said. All three of her children attended the DuBow preschool and have attended the Day School, beginning in kindergarten. “I love that my children have been taught by some of the same educators who taught me and fell in love with being Jewish, have a strong Jewish identity, and understand the importance of being part of a community.”

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MY LIFE-CHANGING SUMMER ABROAD

By: Jamie Bielski

This summer, I went to Poland for one week and Israel for six weeks for Ramah Israel Seminar. We spent the first week in Poland, where we learned about the atrocities of the Holocaust. It was difficult to see the places where mass destruction of my own people occurred, but it made my journey to Israel that much more meaningful. When I landed in Israel, I immediately felt such an appreciation for the land of solace and protection that the Jewish people did not always have. We began our journey through Israel in the north where we stayed at Hodayot for a week. While we were there, we kayaked on the Jordan river, took a cruise on the Kinneret, went on a few different hikes with scenic views,

and visited the city of Tzfat. We made our way down to Jerusalem, my favorite city, where we spent most of our time on Seminar. The first week we went to the Kotel for Shabbat, did the Archeological Dig, visited Tel Aviv, learned about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the West Bank, and visited Har Hertzel. The next Shabbat was spent with my cousin who lives just outside of Tel Aviv. It was such a special, relaxing weekend for me, as I was able to spend it with family in the Holy Land. Soon after Shabbat, Jamie Bielski (right), recipient of the Elikan Promising Young Leader Scholarship Award I was off to the Negev, the and took a four-hour break desert, for three nights and four days for a challenge called Desert around lunchtime, during the hours the heat was too intense to Survival. We hiked all morning

hike; then we continued hiking until dinner time. Desert Survival taught me so much about how I can push myself, both physically and mentally, to complete a goal I set for myself, no matter how difficult it is. The last week of Ramah Seminar was spent in Kibbutzim in the south. The final few days of the program were spent hiking Masada, swimming in the Dead Sea, shopping on Ben Yehuda, and spending our last Shabbat together, as Seminar, back in Jerusalem. I will carry this memory with me throughout the rest of my life and will always remember how incredible and life-changing my summer with Ramah Israel was. Jamie Bielski is an Elikan Promising Young Leader Scholarship Award recipient.

April Jewish Java K9s for Warriors

April 1, 2020 | 9 - 10:30 a.m. Founded in 2011, K9s for Warriors rescue and train shelter dogs to be paired as Service Dogs for warriors with service-connected Post-Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injury and/or Military Sexual Trauma. As the nation’s largest provider of service dogs for disabled American veterans, K9s’ mission is to end veteran suicide and return our warriors to a life of dignity and independence. Our speakers will be Stephanie Vogt, Community Relations Manager and Brett Simon, co-founder and president of K9s For Warriors. Brett oversees Canine Operations and created the training curriculum utilized by the program. Roughly 90% of the service dogs come from shelters or are owner-surrendered. Instead of a life of abandonment or euthanasia, they are given a new purpose. With each graduate pair, K9s saves two lives-- it rescues the dog, and the dog rescues the warrior. Military veterans- Please wear an article of clothing representing your military branch of service.

RSVP to Isabel Balotin at shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org or 904.224.1418 | Complimentary breakfast provided River Garden Hebrew Home 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd.

K9s For Warriors 23

COMMUNITY

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W H AT â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S H A P P E N I N G I N N O R T H E A S T F LO R I DA

Community -Wide

Purim Carnival

brought to you by the Galinsky Academy PTA & Jacksonville Jewish Center

Sunday, March 8, 2020 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

3662 Crown Point Road, Jacksonville, Fl 32257 Advance Wristband Purchase (by March 6): Individual $20 / Family $36 At the door Wristband Purchase: Individual $30 / Family $46 Individual includes up to two adults with one child Family includes two adults and multiple children

Order today at ptapurimcarnival.eventbrite.com Activities Include: Over 17 Fun Booths Inflatables Climbing Rock Wall Oversized Games Petting Zoo Pony Rides Puppet Show Balloon Animals Face Painting Cotton Candy & Popcorn & SO MUCH MORE!

Food & Drinks Kosher Food by Margo's Catering will be available for purchase during the carnival!

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JCA CAMP YALLA NEW SUMMER EXPERIENCE

LIFE EXPERIENCE(D) River Garden’s exceptional legacy of care spans nearly 75 years.

By: Britney Bean

The JCA has introduced a brand-new specialty summer camp this year. JCA Camp Directors Rio Robinson and Mike May were excited for the opportunity to create this new, high-energy camp geared toward spontaneity and unique experiences. Youth entering grades seven through nine can join Camp Yalla for a summer like no other. Each week has a different theme, and all specialties are off-site. If your child loves to cook, Camp Yalla is partnering with Jax Cooking Studio to teach campers the importance of kitchen safety and teamwork while learning how to cook with healthy, local ingredients. If your child is an adrenaline seeker, Adventure Camp week will wow and excite them! Activities may include rock climbing, zip lining, rope courses, kayaking and much more. For campers

that love being outdoors and active, Camp Yalla offers Surf into Summer which emphasizes ocean awareness, surfing techniques, surf etiquette, proper equipment, and wave selection. Camp Yalla also offers Explore 904: Wildlife Week, where campers get to be one with nature and explore the different ecosystems and wildlife in the area. Activities during this week may include a trip to Little Talbot Island, local Jacksonville beaches, or the Jacksonville Zoo. In Camp Yalla, campers are encouraged to go outside of their comfort zones and try their hand at new activities. By allowing campers to take risks and face challenges, Camp Yalla fosters independence, resiliency, and self-esteem in a safe environment. For more information about JCA Summer Camps and registration, please visit jcajax.org/ camp.

From short -stay skilled nursing and rehabilitation to adult day and long-term care—our continuum of services has honored generations of families and raised the bar for senior living.

Visit RiverGarden.org or call (904) 260 .1818

Come See For Yourself! Join Us At Our 74th Anniversary Day Sunday, March 29 | 3 – 6 p.m. FUN FOR A LL

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MUSIC

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RGSS-19-001 River Garden DATZ JACKSONVILLE JEWISH NEWS Ad 4C 3.75”x 9.5”

March: Anniversar y Day (due Feb. 10)

NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE

MIDDLE SCHOOL MITZVAH

By: Edith Horovtiz

What does a week of bonding, team building, community service, education, and more look like? At the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, this describes the annual Middle School retreat. Every morning began with the shacharit service, followed by a delicious, hot breakfast. Highlights of our first day included a visit to a trampoline park and to an escape room. Bouncing with friends and collaborating to master the escape allowed students the opportunity to strengthen existing friendships and form new ones. The second day of the retreat featured a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) competition and then our annual CHOPPED competition. Team building mixed with a lot of fun was the goal of both competitions. On the third day, students traveled to experience zip lining in Ocala, Florida. As they encouraged each other to meet the challenges, one could hear laughter and feel the excitement. Viewing the beautiful landscape from high above was a thrill for all. Dinner at a kosher buffet in Orlando, Florida was a treat on the way to Give Kids the World Village— the highlight of the retreat. This nonprofit resort is for children with critical illnesses and their families. The resort

provides accommodations and access to donated theme-park tickets. At Give Kids the World Village, students served dinner, welcomed guests, and helped to

run the resort’s America’s Got Talent show. Helping critically ill children and their families was an amazing experience for our students. It was an opportunity to perform the mitzvah of

“bikkur cholim for” in a truly meaningful way. After spending the night in Orlando, the final day was spent touring the Kennedy Space Center.

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JEWQ! STUDY, COMPETE, SHINE!

EXPLORING THROUGH CLAY PLAY

By: Britney Bean

Maria Montessori once said, “The human hand allows the mind to reveal itself.” At Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten, students do just that through clay play. By playing and creating with clay, children explore and express themselves in new ways. Clay play provides an especially exciting opportunity for children who are nonverbal to be able to express themselves. Through the school’s new art studio, which just opened this academic year, children in every age group can visit and engage in many different art mediums. However, clay play is a focus of the studio this year. The Kindergarten class also got to work with renowned local clay artist, Tim Bullard, to create chanukiyahs from scratch. There are many benefits to clay play for children of all ages. It stimulates their developmental growth, as children manipulate clay through a variety of movements that improve dexterity. It also fosters hand-eye coordination and increases a

By: Chabad of St. Johns

child’s ability to focus. Clay play reinforces mathematical understanding through pattern making and offers children the tactile experience of differentiating different weights and sizes.

Noam, Eva, and Adam, accepted their trophies with pride. They had spent the past several months studying and came in at the top of Grow After School’s JewQ competition. Soon, they will be making their way to New York City for the International Championship with kids from all over the world. As part of the Grow After School program, a project of Chabad of S. Johns, children had the opportunity to join JewQ, an international learning program. Grow students studied from a specially designed book packed with basic concepts in Judaism; plus they learn about many of the mitzvot. After learning the material on their own, kids at Grow got to compete, and the winner plus the top two contestants will

make their way to New York for the grand international JewQ Championship. “I’m in awe of what these students were able to accomplish,” said Mrs. Dini Sharfstein, director of the Grow After School Enrichment Program for Chabad of St. Johns. “They really invested themselves in their studies, and their efforts paid off. The goal of this program was not only for the students to learn more about their religion, but also to connect with it and make it their own. After witnessing this performance today, I believe we have successfully met our goal.” For more info about the Grow After School Program, visit JewishSJohnsCounty.com/ GROW, email Dini@JewishSJohnsCounty.com or call (904) 701-4422.

Everything you need, at your fingertips. Welcome to Starling. Welcome Home. Starling at Nocatee and San Jose offers Assisted Living, and Memory Care lifestyles full of unmatched convenience and vitality. Come see our luxurious communities to discover what makes Starling the region’s premier senior living destination, including:

It even increases their literary growth by introducing new words like coil, pinch, and other verbs to describe their clay play, as well as allowing them the experience to come up with and share their own stories through their creations.

• First-class, personalized services • Exquisite dining experiences • Holistic wellness offerings

• Dynamic engagement opportunities • Resort-style amenities

Join us for our Open House – 3/11 5-7 pm

Starling at Nocatee | 999 Crosswater Pkwy. Ponte Vedra, FL 904.372.1134 | StarlingAtNocatee.com

Starling at San Jose | 9075 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 904.299.8807 | StarlingAtSanJose.com

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The Galinsky Academy Presents...

Jacksonville’s FIRST EVER Jewish Music & Arts Festival Sunday, March 22, 2020 First Act - 12:30 PM Beth Shalom Park at the Jacksonville Jewish Center www.ShirMadness2020.com

Honoring Arlene & Evan Yegelwel & The Jewish Community Alliance Event Chairs Rachel Morgenthal & Sandy Shapiro

Campaign Chair Erik Rostholder

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS* (as of January 28, 2020)

Double Platinum $50,000+

DuBow Family Foundation • Debbie & Mel Gottlieb • Trager Family Foundation

Platinum $25,000+

Horovitz, Mizrahi, & Morgenthal Family • Terrell Hogan Yegelwel, P. A.

Gold $18,000+

Groupie $1,000+

Music Enthusiast $1,800+

Karen & Stuart Applebaum • Bettman & Rotenberg Families Ashton Brodsky • Chelsey & Brett Dasher • Cindy & Moti Demri and Family Britini & Corbyn Greer • Risa & Stuart Herman Leora & Hazzan Jesse Holzer • Margie & Aaron Holzer Christina & Mark Levine • Michelle & Drew Margol • Vanessa & Allen Morris Jennifer & Rick Plotkin • Dr. Joshua & Jodi Rogozinski Rabbi Shira M.T. Rosenblum • Ellen & Alan Rosner • Dr. Beth & Leif Rush Sakofs Family Foundation • Shari & Mark Saye Kendall Sisisky Valliere & Sean Valliere • Sara & Bruce Werner

Setzer Family • Steve Sherman • Zimmerman Family: Chase & Morrie Dr. Rebecca & Allan Andrew • Shylie & Jesse Bannon • Carrie & Dave Bielski Zimmerman • Elyne & Charles Zimmerman • Nancy & Seeman Zimmerman Harriet & Ernie Brodsky • Dr. Jeffrey & Gaby Bubis • LaVerne & Andy Cantor Dr. Denise Sherman & Yakov Feig • Linda & Nathan Franzblau Silver $10,000+ Sierra & Adam Frisch • Pearl & Alan Harrison • Faye & Dan Hedrick Ansbacher Law and Lewis & Sybil Ansbacher Family Foundation Dr. Kenneth & Paula Horn • Dr. Marc & Jessica Kaye Dr. Mark & Rhonda Fleisher • Kim Glasgal & Peter Levy Whitney & Grant Kuvin • Amy & Don Levinson Dr. Emily & Erik Rostholder • Selevan Family Foundation Rabbi Jonathan & Susan Lubliner • Elaine & Ricky Mack Shorstein Family Foundation • Arlene & Evan Yegelwel Claudia Baker & Leonard Magid • Carol & Joel Morris Robin & Jeffery Morris • Drs. Tmima & Steve Neihaus Stage Manager $5,000+ Kathy & Morrie Osterer • Cheryl & Jay Plotkin • Wendy & Fred Pozin Etta Fialkow & Drs. Sandy & Craig Shapiro • Pat & Ben Frisch Lauren & Matthew Rickoff • Dr. Harris & Meryl Rittenberg Dr. Larry & Phyllis Goldberg • Drs. Ilene and Jeff Levenson Dr. Abe & Marjie Rogozinski • William Rose Joseph & Dorothy Mizrahi Jewish Music Fund Kellie Kelleher-Smith & Jason Smith • Dr. Manny & Rita Stearman Judith & Stephen Silverman • JJC Sisterhood Dr. Doug & Melissa Storch • Dr. Edwin & Helene Thall Booking Agent $3,600+ Dr. Gene & Brenda Wolchok Erica Leibo • Spark, Inc. The Arnold Family • Merle & Ron Cherry • Sheri & David Goldstein The Jaffe Group at Morgan Stanley • Debby & Don Kaye Dr. Garry Kitay & Debbie Banks • Dr. Ronnie & Joan Levin Donna & M.G. Orender • Dr. Chaim and Jeanine Rogozinski Blair & Zach Sherman • Shilts CPA • Kimberly & Richard Sisisky Taverna-Kiley & Sam Efron • Drs. Marte & Paul Wasserman Wells Fargo - The Private Bank • Dr. Bruce & Sharon Witten

Music Fan $365+

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ENRICHMENT PARTNERSHIPS FLOURISH

SHEVA Q&A

By: Danielle Wirsansky

*Sheva, which means seven in Hebrew, is a powerful number in Jewish thought and practice. The Sheva framework employs seven core principles of early care and education and contemporary and ancient texts, using seven Jewish lenses to reveal universal values. Sheva classrooms weave these values throughout their educational day. Kerstin Teutonico has been an educator with the JCA since 2018. She was also chosen to participate in the competitive Israeli Learning Seminar (ILS), a professional development opportunity for Jewish communal professionals. Here, she reflects on the Sheva* framework:

By: Danielle Wirsansky

Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten has many enrichment partnerships with prominent Jacksonville, Florida organizations. However, one of its most unique and long-lasting

partnerships is with the Jacksonville Zoo. Many of the school’s partnerships engage the Junior Kindergarten or Kindergarten classes, but the Jacksonville Zoo partnership is exclusive to the Teddy Bear age group (3 to 4 years old). This year, zoo partners visited five times throughout January and February to work with students. Students met different animals, like penguins; a hairless guinea pig; Jimmy, a green and black poison dart frog; and Jiffy Pop, a corn snake.

Beyond meeting the animals, students learned about the differences between baby animals and adult animals, how animals move, and how the senses of animals differ from the senses of human beings. The children engaged in dramatic play and transformed themselves into the animals they met. Through the Animal Tales program, students also read stories following animal protagonists before meeting the same kind of animal they had just read about. The partnership with the Jacksonville Zoo is one of the highlights of the Teddy Bear students’ year. The younger students eagerly await the upcoming school year when they can benefit from the Zoo’s visits to the school. For information on Michele Block Gan Yeladim’s Enrichment programs, call (904) 730-2100, ext. 259.

Q: How do you think students and their families can connect to the Sheva framework? KT: People from all walks of life are searching for deeper meaning and fulfillment. The seven lenses of the Sheva framework reveal universal values that provide an easily understood, ethical model for living in an increasingly confusing and difficult world. Q: In what ways does the Sheva framework shape your classroom? KT: The Sheva framework inspires as much as informs. It helps enrich students’ learning as it provides guidelines for a positive learning environment along with values, such as being present in the moment, gratitude, responsibility, and belonging. These lenses are already reflected in the way we approach our work daily. They are reflected in the ways we structure our time, our curriculum, our classrooms, the quality of our relationships with our

See SHEVA p. 46

WORTH THE SCHLEP N O R T H E A S T F LO R I DA’ S E V E N T C A L E N DA R

Family Hamentashen Bake March 1 12:30 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

For Purim, join the JCA, PJ Library, Federation and Etz Chaim Synagogue to bake festival treats and enjoy games and crafts. This event is free and open to the community. RSVP at https://events.idonate.com/ hamentashbake2020 Shorashim March 1 10:00-11:00 a.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

A parent and me group intended for children 0-36 months. Facilitated by Edrea Porter with guests Michelle Penson and Cantor Barry, Shorashim meets from 10:00-11:00 a.m. on all Sundays there is TIR. Attendees do not need to be Temple members. Invite your friends! TIR-Temple Institute of Religion March 1 9:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

TIR is the Temple's Religious School and is available to students from 3-years-old through 10th grade. Contact Michelle Penson at mpenson@thetemplejax.org for more information. Beyond Belief: Reflections on Jewish Faith, Reason,

and Experience with Rabbi Feigenbaum March 2, 9, 16 & 30 7:15 p.m. Etz Chaim

Our beliefs color the way we see the world and help us to make sense of the inevitable challenges that confront us. Jewish faith is a dynamic, powerful force within us. This course will take a closer look how Jewish beliefs bring meaning to their lives and guide their choices.

p.m.

AARP TEk Classes March 3 10:00 a.m., 12:00 & 3:00

For those wanting to learn more about their smartphone or automobile technology, consider registering for an AARP class. There is no charge & classes are open to all! https://local.aarp.org/ news/aarp-tek-jacksonvillecourses-fl-2018-02-13.html Meditation Talk March 3 6:00 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

Join Eugene Bebeau, MD, as he discusses various types of meditation and the benefits from a holistic perspective. This event is free and open to the community. Medabrim Ivrit March 3 6:30 p.m.

Practice your Hebrew at the JCA with Shaliach Rotem Gabay through topical

conversation. This event is free and open to the community. River Garden Auxiliary Special Event Luncheon March 3 12:00 p.m. The Jacksonville Jewish Center

The Auxiliary’s annual special event will be hosted at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Themed as ‘A Day in the Park’, it will be a perfect time to enjoy the company of friends and, of course, shop and take in a fashion show. Tickets are $50. https:// rivergardenauxiliary.square. site/ Understanding Israel Today Part 3 March 3 | 7:15-8:30 p.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

Third in his four-part series, Harvey Leven will discuss Israel’s security. 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 with Michelle Penson March 3 10:30 AM-11:30 a.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

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 wisdom-everyone is welcome. Jewish Java March 4 9:00 a.m. River Garden

Speaker: Julianna Jaffe RSVP to Isabel Balotin at shalomjax@jewishjacksonville. org or 904.224.1418. JTS Distance Learning: Legal Fictions March 4, 11 & 18 11:45 a.m. Jacksonville Jewish Center

Join the Center as we continue learning with the Jewish Theological Seminary's Distance: A Jew and a Gentile Take a Cruise: Halakhic Legal Fictions Through the Lens of Mekhirat Hametz. The course will be taught by the Conservative Yeshiva's Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Dr. Josh Kulp. Cost is $36.

Brewery

JCA Hosts Ladies Night Out March 5 6:00 p.m. Wicked Barley

Get your Brewery Passports stamped as we discover local breweries for Ladies Night Out! This event is $5 for non-members and free for valued members. Israeli-Style Potluck Schabbat Dinner March 6 6:30 p.m.

WORTH THE SCHLEP Jewish Community Alliance

Bring your families for an Israeli-style potluck dinner at the JCA. This event is free and open to the community. Torah Study March 7 9:00-10:00 a.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

Join the clergy to explore and discuss the weekly Torah portion and the Haftarah. A light breakfast is served starting at 8:45 a.m. No prior knowledge is expected. Meditation Talk March 8 6:30 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

Practice your Hebrew at the JCA with Shaliach Roem Gabay through topical conversation. Free to the community. Purim Carnival March 8 12:00-4:00 p.m. Jacksonville Jewish Center Community-Wide Purim Carnival brought to you by

the Galinsky Academy PTA & the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Includes over 17 fun booths, inflatables, climbing rock wall, oversized games, petting zoo, pony rides, puppet show, balloon animals and so much more! Kosher food by Margo's Catering will be available for purchase. RSVP at ptapurimcarnival. eventbrite.com Purim Renaissance Faire March 8 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

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Come celebrate Purim at Temple! We are having a Purim Renaissance Faire to benefit TIR. Come in costume and join the revelry! Games, food trucks, pie throwing, inflatables, and more! Tickets available at thetemplejax.square.site Sunday Film Series: David and Bathsheba March 8 2:00 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

Come see this great film at the JCA! The showing is free and open to the community. Teens & Seniors Hamantashen Bake March 8 10:30 a.m. River Garden Senior Home

Calling all Jewish Teens! Join us for pre-Purim fun and give back to the community by helping seniors bake Hamantashen and pack Mishloach Manot (gifts of food) in honor of Purim! For more info and to let us know you will be joining contact us at: Dini@ JewishSJohnsCounty.com or call (904) 701.4422 Temple Bet Yam's Gigantic Indoor Yard Sale March 8 7:00 a.m.-3:00

p.m. 2055 Wildwood Drive, St. Augustine FL, 32086

Just off SR207 next to Ray's AutoBody Looking for household items, artwork, furniture, electronics, toys, books, and more? Look no further! Come to Temple Bet Yam’s gigantic indoor yard sale. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity!

Megillah Readings and Family Feud Purim Events

March 9 6:16 p.m. March 10 7:10 a.m. & 5:00 p.m.

Jacksonville Jewish Center Join us for Erev Purim Minyan/Megillah at 6:15 p.m. followed by delicious Sisterhood-made hamantaschen/ice cream treats! We'll have a traditional reading Tuesday morning and celebrate Purim throughout our school day. At 5:00 p.m., the community is invited for a Seudat Purim (festive meal) called "Family Feud/Fleishig Food." Brisket Sliders: $15 adults/$5 children. Call (904) 292-1000 Marvelous Super Hero Purim March 9 7:30 p.m.

Join us for the ultimate Superhero Purim! Super fun! Super food! Come dressed as your favorite Jewish Superhero or in a costume of your choice to win a prize. Fun for all ages! To RSVP or for more info visit JewishSJohnsCounty. com. Call 904.01.4422 or email Info@ JewishSJohnsCounty.com Purimania March 9 7:45 p.m. Chabad Mandarin Headquarters

Men women and children will gather together at the Chabad Center to listen to the Megillah and say Boo to Haman. Everyone, young and old, are encouraged to come in Purim costumes. Special prizes for all children dressed up. Light

break-fast will be served. Purim in Outer Space March 9 6:30 p.m. Chabad at the Beaches

Purim in Outer Space will feature Purim excitement for all ages: Space Magic Starring Michael Chrozniak, Cool Space Adventure with Lee Giat NASA Astronomer & Astronaut in Training, Megillah Readings, Star Walk Masquerade, Space Activities Hamoontashen & Other Delicious Space Food! Register at chabadbeaches. com For info call 904-5439301 or 904-770-0502 Let’s Do Lunch: Taverna March 10 | 12:00 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

Meet us at Taverna for our monthly lunch outing! This event is $5 for non-members and free for valued members. Purim Italian Style March 10 5:00 p.m. Chabad Mandarin Headquarters Live music, Captain Character puppet and magic show, along with balloon twisting and face painting. The celebration will open with a social hour offering a selection of great kosher wines and other fine spirits, followed by a delectable dinner featuring Italian cuisine. Purim Megillah Reading with Rabbi Merrill Shapiro March 10 10:00 a.m. Parker Chapel / River Garden

Come join us as we hear and read the Megillah on Purim. The community is welcome and costumes are highly encouraged!

NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE Wisdom with Rabbi Goodman March 10 10:30-11:30 a.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

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 a.m. This group focuses its discussion on contemporary issues viewed through a Jewish lens. Share some wisdom, gain some wisdom-everyone is welcome. Discover Israel Film Series: "When Heroes Fly" March 11 7:00 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

See a showing of "When Heroes Fly" at the JCA! This showing is free and open to the community. JCAtion Day Field Trips (Grades K – 8) March 10, 12 and 27 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. or 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

When school is out, join us for these exciting trips! These events are $30 per day for non-members and $20 per day for valued members. Tuesday, Mar. 10, Bowl America - Thursday, Mar. 12, Trampoline Park - Friday, Mar. 27, Adventure Landing Ayurveda: Creating A Healthy Dinasharya March 12 6:00 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

Join Dr. Jyoti Vohra, of Ayurvedic Center of Health and Healing to discover how to regulate your daily routines. This event is $5 for non-members and free for valued members.

YP&F Quarterly Cocktails Purim Style March 12 6:00 p.m. Prati Italia @ the Town Center

RSVP by March 6 to Fayeh@ jewishjacksonville.org Please bring along a jar of fruit preserves (like you find in a hamentashen) for our mitzvah project to recieve a free drink ticket. Safe Sitters Course (Grades 6 – 12) March 13 9:30 a.m. Jewish Community Alliance

Your teenager will learn skills to navigate emergency situations when home alone or babysitting. This course is $83 for non-members and $55 for valued members. Torah Study March 14 9:00-10:00 a.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

Join the clergy to explore and discuss the weekly Torah portion and the Haftarah. A light breakfast is served starting at 8:45 a.m. No prior knowledge is expected. Young Concert Artist Series: Aristo Sham, Piano March 15 3:00 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

Enjoy award winning pianist Aristo Sham’s performance at the JCA. This event is free and open to the community thanks to the generosity of the Berman Family. Jewish Genealogy March 15 10:00 a.m. River Garden

Come see the film “Above and Beyond,” the first major

feature-length documentary about the foreign airmen in the ’48 Arab-Israeli War. It brings together interviews with the pilots, as well as stunning aerial footage, to present a fascinating, little-known tale filled with heart, heroism and high-flying chutzpah. Anti-Semitism: New Unease in Europe and the U.S. March 17 7:00 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

Join Günther Jikeli as he explains the resurgence of antisemitism in Europe and the U.S. This program is free to the community an made possible through the Dr. Larry and Kathy Kanter Fund for Jewish Preservation. Registration required by March 13. Jacksonville Hadassah Hosts The Healing Power of Art March 17 10:00 a.m-12:00 p.m. Baptist Medical Center South

Join Hadassah for docent-led tour of the art collection at Baptist Medical Center South. We honor our Keepers of the Gate. Not a Keeper? Learn how you can play a major role ensuring the health of the people of Israel and around the world. Questions? Call Goldie Lansky (904) 9105344. Wisdom with Cantor Barry March 17 10:30 a.m11:30 p.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

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 wisdom-everyone is welcome. Blue Sky Golf March 18 Blue Sky Golf Club The Beth El Brotherhood will be hosting a night of golf at the Blue Sky Golf Club on Monument Road. The night practice includes a closest-tothe-pin contest, a putting contest, a corn hole contest, shuffleboard, great food, and of course fun. RSVP: David Adler (330) 472-8720 or dadler6154@gmail.com. Discover Culture Extension Event: The Color of Love - Marra B. Gad March 18 7:00 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

Join us at the JCA for Author Marra B. Gad’s lecture on her book “The Color of Love”, a story about what we inherit from our families. This event is free and open to the community thanks to the support of our sponsors. Erev Shabbat Worship with FNL March 20 7:00 p.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

Enliven your Shabbat spirit with the Friday Night Live Band! They fill the sanctuary with music that is spiritual and joyous and we hope it will be a welcome addition to your Shabbat. Along with singers, the band includes guitars, percussion, piano, keyboard, clarinets, trombones, violin, saxophone and hammered dulcimer.

WORTH THE SCHLEP Torah Study March 21 9:00-10:00 a.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

Join the clergy to explore and discuss the weekly Torah portion and the Haftarah. A light breakfast is served starting at 8:45 am. No prior knowledge is expected. Shir Madness March 22 12:30 p.m. Beth Shalom Park Jacksonville Jewish Center

A Jewish music & arts Festival that's multi-generational, multi-denominational, and multi-sensational benefiting Jewish youth and education. Pre-Pesach Event-Women empowered! March 24 7:00 p.m. Chabad at the Beaches

The Jewish women in Eqypt were a force to be reckoned with! Get empowered before Passover. Experiencing freedom means feeling safe. Have an awesome evening of Krav Maga & empower yourself with street smarts & safety tips for women with Andrew, a former CIA agent. RSVP chabadbeaches.com Dafne 904-770-0502 Wisdom with Rabbi Raskind March 24

10:30-11:30 a.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

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

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issues viewed through a Jewish lens. Share some wisdom, gain some wisdomeveryone is welcome. Women's Health March 24 6:00 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

Join Paulami Guha, MD, from North Florida OB/GYN at Baptist Jacksonville downtown, to discuss topics relating to women’s health. This event is free and open to the community. Historic Merrill House Tour and Lunch March 25 8:45 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

Take a walk through history in this best kept example of 19th century Queen AnneEastlake Victorian architecture. This event is $23 for non-members and $15 for valued members. Holocaust Remembrance through Stories and Symbolism March 25 10:00 a.m. Cohen Auditorium / River Garden

‘LiterARTure’ partners Stacey Goldring & Cindy Edelman will bring their deep and abiding interest in Holocaust Remembrance in advance of Yom Hashoah to the audience at River Garden. Refreshments will be served. RSVP at platzer@rivergarden. org or (904) 886-8429. Drop It Like A Squat March 26 6:00 p.m. Jewish Community Alliance

New to squats? Join personal trainer Paula Saraga to learn how to do this exercise properly. This clinic is free for valued members only.

Mini Minyan March 27 5:30- 6:30 p.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

Join us with your children, your friends and your neighbors. Cantor Barry and Michelle Penson will be leading us in song and prayer. A lite dinner will be served. Savoring San Marco Food Tour March 27 10:30 a.m. Jewish Community Alliance

Enjoy a casual 1.7 mile guided stroll through Historic San Marco with Taste of Jacksonville Food and try 5-6 local restaurants. This event us $90 for non-members and $60 for valued members.

Temple

Torah Study March 28 9:00-10:00 a.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The

Join the clergy to explore and discuss the weekly Torah portion and the Haftarah. A light breakfast is served starting at 8:45 a.m. No prior knowledge is expected. River Garden 74th Anniversary Day March 29 3:00-6:00 p.m. River Garden

Face-painting, pony rides, and Tombola. Vintages art sale, train rides & BBQ! Don’t miss this afternoon of fun! Shorashim March 29 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

A parent and me group intended for children 0-36 months. Facilitated by Edrea Porter with guests Michelle Penson and Cantor Barry, Shorashim meets from 10:00-11:00 a.m. on all Sundays there is TIR. Attendees do not need to be Temple members. Invite your friends! TIR-Temple Institute of Religion March 29 9:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

TIR is the Temple’s Religious School and is available to students from the ages of 3 through 10th grade. Contact Michelle Penson at mpenson@thetemplejax.org for more information. Wisdom with Cantor Barry March 31 10:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple

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. Lion of Judah Luncheon March 31 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. Hosted by Monique Miller

RSVP by March 23 to Jennifer Rensch jenniferr@ jewishjacksonville.org or 904-224-1401

NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE Jewish Java April 1 9:00 a.m. River Garden

Speaker: K9S For Warriors RSVP to Isabel Balotin at shalomjax@jewishjacksonville. org or 904.224.1418. JFCS Impacting Today Transforming Tomorrows April 2

5:45 p.m. Prime Osborn Convention Center

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the JFCS 2020 Annual Event. Impacting Today - Transforming Tomorrows will be held on April 2, 2020, at the Prime Osborn Convention Center. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information, contact Susie Menaged at 904-394-5727 / smenaged@jfcsjax.org Register now at www.jfcsjax.org/ event2020 Tiyul to Shul April 4 9:00 a.m. Jacksonville Jewish Center

This award-winning program encourages worshipers to walk together to/from Shabbat services. Shabbat Morning Services will take place outside at the Center’s Beth Shalom Park, beginning at 9:00 AM, and include Birkat Ha’Ilanot, a special blessing recited in the month of Nisan as trees come into bloom. Society of Healers Brunch April 5 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. The Federation & Foundation of NE Florida

RSVP to Jennifer Rensch

jenniferr@jewishjacksonville. org or 904-224-1401. The event will be held at the JCA. Community Passover Seder April 9 8:00 p.m. Jacksonville Jewish Center

Join Rabbi Shira M.T. Rosenblum and Hazzan Jesse Holzer at the Jacksonville Jewish Center for a lively, participatory, song-filled Seder for all ages. 7:30 p.m. Mincha and Ma'ariv 8:00 p.m. Seder. Details at: jaxjewishcenter. org/passoverseder. 2nd Night of Seder April 9 7:30 p.m. YP&F

*More details to come. Passover Seder April 8 & 9 7:00 & 7:30 p.m. Chabad at the Beaches

Passover Seders at the Beach- Join Chabad at the Beaches for a seder experience you will cherish. Enjoy Gourmet Passover Cuisine, celebrate the holiday in a warm welcoming environment, discover the haggadah and the timeless messages of Passover. Reservations required www.chabadbeaches. com- For questions call 904-543-9301 or 904-7700502 Annual Community Wide Holocaust Remembrance Day Program April 19 3:00-5:00 p.m. Beth El The Beaches Synagogue

Yom Hashoah Annual Community Wide Holocaust Remembrance Day Program at Beth El The Beaches Synagogue Service led by

Rabbi Michael Matuson Program to feature “Sheer Luck,” a documentary of one man's life in pre-war Poland and his five years in various concentration camps. Open to the entire community. Marilyn & Louis Safer Shabbaton April 24-26 Jacksonville Jewish Center

Dr. Mark Leuchter will be at the Center to Jacksonville as scholar-in-residence. His special interest is in how Judaism, in its evolution, interacts with surrounding cultures. Dr. Leutcher’s current research focuses on how contemporary Antisemitism is a product of ancient mythology. For more information visit jaxjewishcenter.org. 4th Annual Nocatee Shabbat Dinner

May 1 6:30 p.m. Nocatee Crosswater Hall Celebrate Shabbat with a delectable, four-course dinner in a warm Shabbat atmosphere. The evening will begin with a brief candle-lighting ceremony for women and a joyous welcoming of Shabbat. Reservations required: JewishSJohnsCounty.com/ Nocatee. JTS Distance Learning: Jerusalem of Gold May 5, 12, and 19 11:45 Jacksonville Jewish Center

Join the Center as we continue learning with the Jewish Theological Seminary's Distance: Jerusalem of Gold: The City and Its Women in Rabbinic Literature. The course is taught by Dr. Sarit Kattan Gribetz. Bring a dairy lunch. Cost is $36.

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A NIGHT OUT WITH FEDERATION

Richard and Kimberly Sisisky

David Robbins and Barry Zisser

Mauri Mizrahi, Alan Margolies, Alison and Ken Jacobs

Photo Credit: Tallis Photography

Iris and Mark Kraemer

Haley Trager and Iris Kraemer with the Turnstiles, a Billy Joel Tribute Band

Carole Wolpin and Sue Levine Sandy Zimmerman, Marcy Sandler, Sarah Fraden

Julia Silver, Joey Mintz, Nicole and Andy Brown

Jimmy and Irene Jaffa, Kellie Smith and Lauren Setzer

Photo Credit: Tallis Photography and Rachael Mcgahee

Mauri Mizrahi and Jen Plotkin

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River Garden supports diversity and inclusion, and on February 4, CEO Marty Goetz had the pleasure of speaking with OneJAX, an interfaith organization of UNF dedicated to achieving civility, understanding and respect for all. This event, titled 'In the Eyes of the Beholder', was part of the OneJAX Civil Discourse Series. The night began with a self-guided tour of the 'Abraham: Out of One, Many' art exhibit followed by a moderated panel discussion exploring how individuals hear the same story but interpret it differently, and more specifically how we all live in the same city yet have varied viewpoints.

Panelists Marty Goetz, CEO of River Garden, Cindy Funkhouser, President and CEO of Sulzbacher and Dr. Mobeen Rathore, UF Health, with moderator Kyle Reese, Deputy Director of OneJax Institute.

Bernie Grossman, Ph. D. and teacher in the adult education classes through OLLI at UNF, was the guest speaker at Lunch with Lois at The Coves on January 29, 2020. His topic was 'Artificial Intelligence' (AI). He explained some of the technological changes that we can expect in the not so distant future, and reminded that although some of the changes are frightening, historically technology has improved the standard of living. AI is a fascinating subject!

(L-R) Bernie Grossman, Lois Chepenik and Cheryl Fisch at The Coves.

Diane Raines, former Chief Nursing Officer of Baptist Hospital, with Marty Goetz.

NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE Love was in the air on Tuesday, January 28, when Hadassah Jacksonville honored Stacey Goldring with this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tricia Bettman Leadership Award at their Chai Society Luncheon. The 150 attendees also heard an overview of Antisemitism from Keynote Speaker Elizabeth Gelman, Executive Director, Florida Holocaust Museum in St. Petersburg, FL. Thanks to all Chai Society members and Keepers, the successful event brought the chapter closer to fulfilling promises to the people served in the U.S. and in Israel. For more photos, go to their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/HadassahJacksonville/

Hadassah Jacksonville President Liat Walker, Tricia Bettman Leadership Award Recipient Stacey Goldring and Chai Society Chair Jodi Seitlin

Honoree Stacey Goldring with her family at the luncheon.

Hadassah members Isabel Balotin, Juliana Jaffe Leven and Arlene Adelson pose before the luncheon.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about making connections!!! Eleven years ago, Shalom Jax welcomed former Southfield, Michigan residents, Arlene and Tony Adelson, to Jacksonville. Recently, I met Julianna Jaffe Leven who coincidentally is from Southfield. I introduced Arlene and Julianna to each other at this Hadassah meeting and, Bingo! They went to the same high school, graduated the same year and have many friends in common. Small Jewish world.

Keynote Speaker Elizabeth Gelman, Director, Florida Holocaust Museum

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Members of The Coves join for a casual 'Happy Hour' chat before dinner.

Chabad Headquarters/Mandarin Babka Bake: Women gathered together and learned the art of Babka baking with Rivkie Kahanov, and learned some words inspiration as well.

(L-R) Anne Baur, Marti Martin, Francine Friedman, Tom Crawford, Marilyn Stein, Cecile Goetz & Pat Rosenthal.

Long-time friends meet regularly for Mahjong at The Coves at River Garden.

(L-R) Bebbie Brust, Judy Shorstein, Judy Greenfield and Debby Katz.

Community friends gathered at River Garden on February 2 for 'Back in the Bronx' with Steve Samtur. With his collection of memories and photos from the 1940s, -50s and -60s, everyone celebrated their experiences of growing up and living in the Bronx.

(L-R) Elinor Snow, Carol Matoren, Harvey Matoren, Steve Samtur, Bert Kagan and Art Fields.

NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE The Beaches area hosted it's bi-monthly Sip & Schmooze this past month. Attendees enjoyed an opportunity to network with Beaches community members, as well as a Federation overview from Jewish Federation and Foundation Campaign Chair, Jennifer Plotkin. The next Sip & Schmooze will take place on March 25 at a new location, Nona Blue, and is hosted by Marcy Sandler and Robin Deegan.

Susanna Murphy and Marcy Sandler

Karen Duncan, Robin Deegan and Suzanne Tunnell

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Young professional paint night at the kollel.

NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE 100% Fun Times at Martin J. Gottlieb Day School! To celebrate the 100th day of school, Kindergarten started the day making ‘100 Days Smarter’ crowns. They made bubble gum machines with 100 gumballs and had a 100-day special snack, yummy. Next up was making a necklace with 100 beads using groups of tens or fives. They had ‘100 minutes of recess’ and completed a 100 Hershey Kiss Hunt! Students wrapped up our celebrations by using an aging app to turn ourselves into 100-yearolds and wrote about what we might be doing at that age.

On February 4, the American Cancer Society held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Hope Lodge. In attendance were Dr. Scot and Alex Ackerman, representing Ackerman Cancer Center and Kellie Smith, Jewish Foundation Director.

Dr. Scot and Alex Ackerman, pictured left. Kellie Smith, Foundation Director, pictured right at the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Hope Lodge.

On January 20, Cantor Barry participated in the second annual Ecumenical Prayer for Peace, coordinated with OneJax for a day of reflection and togetherness in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King at the Cummer Museum.

Pictured from Left to Right: Cantor Barry, Dr. Mobeen Rathore, Rev. Tiffany McCall, and Kyle Reese

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More than 100 children came together to bake Challah for the Kids Mega Challah Bake 2020. 175 pounds of flour, lots of smiley faces and LOAVES OF FUN! Thank you to all of our sponsors, the JCA, PJ Library, Camp Gan Israel, Chabad of St. Johns & Chabad of Northeast Florida and all our volunteers and teens for bringing Jewish unity and pride to Northeast Florida!

River Garden loves inter-generational activities.

Kids kneading their very own challah at the Kids Mega Challah Bake After a visit filled with Tu B’Shevat insights and song, the boys from Rabbi Browd’s class at the Cheder of Jacksonville spend a moment enjoying nature on the River Garden campus.

On January 24, members of The Temple came together for a Potluck Dinner before Shabbat services. Participants from Mini Minyan, together with Michelle Penson and Cantor Barry, led everyone in the candle lighting blessing and Kiddush.

Kids beaming with their beautifully braided challahs at the Mega Kids Challah Bake in St. Johns.

Michelle Penson, Cantor Barry, and Mini Minyan members leading the candle lighting blessing.

NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE The Jewish Federation and Foundation of Northeast Florida hosted a private tour of the Jacksonville Amazon Fulfillment Center for Lions of Judah and Friends. This was a fun opportunity for Lions to spend time together, while learning how Amazon deliverers packages so quickly.

Dubow Preschoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parparim students had a special visit from Rosemary and Thor, two bearded dragons, and Leo, a little Maltese-Cocker mix. As the current curriculum focus is on pets, the children observed the animals and asked lots of questions.

rly e t r a u Q cocktails

Purim Style (Bring your mask!) Thursday, March 12 | 6:00 p.m. Prati Italia @ the Town Center RSVP by March 6 to fayeh@jewishjacksonville.org Mitzvah Project: Please bring jars of fruit preserves for donation to the JFCS Food PantryÂ

FISCHER Continued from pg. 7

During the trip we took a tour of the City of David. The City of David is tangible evidence of Jewish history during the time of the Second Temple. We walked on the foundation of what they believe was the palace of King David. We also saw the base of Pilgrimage Road and the Pool of Shiloah. The fact that the United Nations continues to try to erase the Jewish connection to Israel is not only morally reprehensible, it is also an affront to thousands of years of archaeological history that proves the Jewish people’s connection to the land of Israel. Our delegation also visited Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust museum and memorial. It was sobering and frightening to learn about how the Nazis were able to combine their rabid anti-Semitism with the world’s indifference in order to perpetrate one of the worst genocides in human history. Especially now with the resurgence of anti-Semitism, the Holocaust serves as a sobering lesson that teaches us that we must aggressively

SHUMES Continued from pg. 14

eventually resumed “temporary” captain status for Monday mornings. His advice to those that have not made minyan as part of their routine is just to try. Get a feel for each of each of the different minyans as each has their own level of camaraderie that may be a better match for you. Many will socialize right after the minyan, whether to gather for breakfast or even happy hour. You will never know what you are missing until you give it a try. Ideally, he invites you to try Monday mornings. Please join us on Shabbat morning, March 14, as we honor Harry and all the Minyannaires on Minyannaire Shabbat.

Our delegation also visited the Golan Heights, a strategically important piece of high ground that overlooks both Syria and Israeli communities in the Galilee. Before Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967, the Syrian army used to shell Israeli farmers with artillery. Israel has received international pressure to “return the Golan Heights to Syria.” After standing on this strategic high ground, I understand why Israel is adamant about maintaining its presence there. From where I was standing, I could see the Syrian civil war raging between different terrorist factions. Imagine if Islamic State or Hezbollah was on top of the Golan Heights instead of the IDF. It would be frightening. Seeing the history of Israel up close was eye-opening. It’s one thing to hear that the Jewish people have thousands of years of connection to the land of Israel, but it’s another thing to see it first-hand.

Harry agreed to become the captain “temporarily”, which has continued to be a running joke as he successfully took the leadership reigns for Monday mornings for the next decade. After the passing of his beloved wife Joannie, Harry “temporarily” stepped back from the captain responsibilities while still attending Monday and adding additional days to also assist others with their need for a minyan. After his retirement, he would attend minyan at both the Center and Etz Chaim to make sure that both congregations would be able to have a minyan each day. Harry

confront and defeat antiSemitism. We must not be silent. We also learned about the BDS movement, the purpose of which is to destroy the State of Israel through economic warfare. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it best: “BDS should stand for bigotry, dishonesty and shame.” I visited the so-called “apartheid wall” that these BDS activists continuously refer to. The security fence is a necessary measure to protect Israeli citizens from terrorism and was built in response to suicide bombers who were blowing up supermarkets, shopping malls and pizza parlors. Israel has a right and obligation to protect its citizens. I also visited a winery in the Golan Heights and learned about the European Union’s attempt to label products made over the so-called “Green Line” as “settlement products.” The E.U. court’s ruling is also nothing

short of an embrace of the BDS movement and a signal that Europe is willing to tolerate anti-Semitism. I am proud that states like Florida are on the front lines of fighting anti-Semitism and supporting Israel. In response to the uptick in anti-Semitic attacks, the Florida legislature created a state fund that awards security grants to Jewish day schools. Florida also passed the toughest anti-BDS law in the country, which Governor Ron DeSantis enforced, causing Airbnb to reverse its policy of delisting Jewish homes in Judea and Samaria. As a state lawmaker, I look forward to finding ways to strengthen Florida’s relationship with Israel and fight anti-Semitism. Jason Fischer serves portions of southern Duval County in the Florida House of Representatives. A Jacksonville native, Jason resides in Mandarin with his wife, Melinda, and their three young sons.

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KESSEL Continued from pg. 11

The Jewish community in Mexico City is highly-structured and extremely active, 95% of Jewish children in Mexico attend a Jewish school, and most visit Israel following their bar/bat mitzvah. The various sub-cultures within the Mexican Jewish community still preserve the unique traditions of their countries-of-origin, creating a diverse tapestry of Jewish life with influences from Syria, the Balkans, Greece, Turkey, Russia and Eastern Europe. JFNA President & CEO, Eric Fingerhut, spoke from the bimah at Comunidad Bet El, where Cabinet joined with 45 local community leaders for Shabbat services and dinner.

SHEVA Continued from pg. 29

students, and the partnerships we build with the families in our communities. In order to fully integrate the Sheva framework, our school is making diligent efforts to first educate teachers about the framework, as well as provide each classroom with new supplies, such as natural toys. books, and art supplies that

Fingerhut inspired the group with a call to action–using Joseph’s question to his brothers during their reunion in Egypt–‘Od avi chai/Is my father still alive?’–which became a rally cry for the movement to free Soviet Jewry–Am Yisrael Chai, Od Avinu Chai. Young Jewish leaders fueled the movement and set an example for Cabinet today to be out-in-front on the community’s key issues. “The Jewish community in Mexico was beyond what I ever imagined. They are such a tight-knit community who love each other, their Judaism and Israel,” Haley Trager said. “Their hospitality is inspiring and made me want to be a better Jew. I’m excited to share what I learned with my community back home.”

Has any of your personal information changed recently? Please email us at info@jewishjacksonville.org if your email, phone number, or address has changed so you can stay up to date on all things Jewish in Jacksonville.

help the children explore their world more intentionally. Q: What do you like most about the Sheva framework? KT: I applaud the school’s move to integrate the Sheva framework because it reflects my view of young children as unique, capable, and full of potential, as persons with complex identities, individual strengths, and capacities.

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Itinerary Highlights (subject to change): • Five-star hotels • Dinners at award-winning restaurants • Walking tour of historical Old Jaffa and artsy Neve Tzedek • Guided cu linary tour of the m arket • Visits to Independence Hall and the Center for Israeli Innovation • Partic ipate in a hands-on Israeli cooking workshop • Exclusive programming in our partnership community of Had era • Enjoy the outdoors with an activity along the Mediterranean coast

• Visit Ya d Vashem, Israel's Holocaust memorial and museum • Welcome Shabbat at the Western Wall and enjoy a festive Shabbat meal with IDF Lone Sold iers • Briefing on the complex security i ssues f ac ing Israel's border with a private border tour • Sta rg azi ng and jeep ri des in the Ramon Crater • Hear from various speakers on the politic s of Israel, hi story and heritage, and fem ale empowerment and entrepreneurship • Experience Yorn Ha'Zikaron and Yorn Ha�tzmaut

Co-chairs: Whitney Kuvin, Jill Metlin, Jennifer Plotkin, Lauren Setzer For p ricing and deta i Is, conta ct Lauren Rickoff a t 904.224.1406 or l aurenr@jewishjacksonville.org.

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 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 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 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;0â&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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 47

3 pieces. Time to set out the seder plates. Pass down the wine, and bring the matzah. Three, please, all nicely stacked. Pass down old stories, and gather new recipes. Time to set out the seder plates. Happy Passover from all your friends at Publix.