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JEWISH NEWS JEWISHJACKSONVILLE.ORG | VOL. 32 NO. 3 | DECEMBER 2018
Martin J. Gottlieb Day School takes schoolwide trip to MOCA By Jewish Federation of Jacksonville
Art and Education came together on Wednesday, Nov. 14, as students from the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School spent the day at MOCA, Jacksonville’s Museum of Contemporary Art. The Zimmerman Family proudly sponsored the school-wide field trip and worked in collaboration with Nan Kavanaugh, Director of Marketing and Communications for MOCA. Elli Zimmerman, MOCA Board Member believed the children would benefit from the opportunity to experience the exhibit, FRANK STELLA UNBOUND: LITERATURE AND PRINTMAKING which was organized by the Princeton University Art Museum. Between 1984 and 1999, the American artist Frank Stella executed four ambitious print series, each of which was named after a literary work that had a distinctive narrative structure: the Passover song Had Gadya, a compilation of Italian Folktales, the epic novel Moby Dick, and the illustrated encyclopedia Dictionary of Imaginary Places. Through these four bodies of work, Stella evolved printmaking projects of unprecedented scale and complexity that both transformed the artist’s visual language-as well as his working process in all media-and represent a technical and expressive milestone in printmaking. Nearly 100 Martin J. Gottlieb students and faculty perused the gallery as the Jackson-
Myron Flagler
Myron Flagler: 20 years at the JCA
See MOCA, p. 21
By Jewish Community Alliance
Myron Flagler retires from the Jewish Community Alliance at the end of this month after more than 20 years of service to the Jacksonville Jewish community as the JCA’s Executive Director. Flagler joined the JCA in 1998 and led the agency through milestones that brought the JCA to the vanguard of JCCs across the nation. “When Howard Korman and I offered Myron the position of executive director, he gave a quick ‘yes!’” recalled David Stein, JCA honorary chairman of the board, life board member and past president. From the start of his appointment, Flagler reimagined JCA programs and offerings and continued to build on the successes that had been established before he joined the agency. Some notable early milestones include burning the mortgage in 1999 and naming the JCA campus in memory of Ed Parker in the same year through a generous contribution from
8505 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32217
Jewish Federation of Jacksonville
Published Monthly POSTMASTER PLEASE DELIVER BY DEC. 1ST
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Jacksonville, FL Permit No. 146
See FLAGLER, p. 26
Federation Annual Champagne Brunch to feature Sharon Tal By Jewish Federation of Jacksonville
Each year, the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville brings the women of the Jacksonville Jewish community together for its Women’s Division Champagne Brunch event. Federation will welcome Sharon Tal, successful Israeli entrepreneur and head designer of the fashion house, Maskit, on Sun., Jan. 6, 2019, from 10 a.m.-noon at Epping Forest Yacht Club. An honors graduate from Shenkar College, Israel’s leading design school, Sharon started her career at Lavin in Paris, interning under former chief designer, Alber Elbaz. She then went on to work at Alexander McQueen in London as the head designer responsible for embroideries. Working under Lee McQueen, Sharon created the embroideries for the celebrated spring/ summer 2010 Plato’s Atlantis collection, among others. Since returning to Israel, Sharon has successfully revived Maskit, Israel’s
first fashion house, founded in 1954 by Ruth Dayan. Maskit was born out of an ideology to help immigrants arriving to Israel find work using their unique craftsmanship. Sharon, with Ruth’s blessing, has infused Maskit’s rich heritage with modern fashion and exclusive designs. Couvert: $36 per person, includes breakfast and program. A minimum pledge of $70 to the 2019 Annual Campaign is required to attend, payable through December 31, 2019. Registration for Champagne Brunch is open until December 28. To RSVP, call 904-448-5000 ext. 1201 or go to goo.gl/hUrdZA.
Q&A with Sharon
Before Tal makes her way to the Sunshine State, we caught up with her to ask a few questions.
See TAL, p. 26
Sharon Tal
JJN Index
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content Adult Education 27 Chanukah Event Listing 22 Community News 13, 15-17 Education 18-21 Federation News 3-4, 7 JCA 23 JFCS 24 Life and Legacy 5-6 Lifecycles 26 Opinion 8 River Garden 25 Synagogues 9-12
ADVERTISING DIRECTORY At the Jacksonville Jewish News, our advertisers are precious to us. It is with their support that the Jacksonville Jewish community has a newspaper. Advertising revenue also offsets the cost of production, so Federation dollars can be dedicated to helping Jews locally and overseas. Please continue to live generously and support our advertisers: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Alhambra Theatre (p. 2) Athenian Owl (p. 22) Athens Cafe (p. 15) Beachview Rentals (p. 11) Bob Ham Eyewear (p. 27) The Bolles School (p. 28) Brandon Pest (p. 27) Chef Chan Asian Cuisine (p. 22) Dignity Memorial (p. 30) Erica Jolles Realty (p. 9) Hala’s Mideast Eatery (p. 11) Jewish Federation of
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
Jacksonville (p. 3, 4, 6, 7, 12, 13, 20, 21, 26, 28, 29, 31, 32) Jumpin’ Jax (p. 12) Margo’s Catering (p. 19) Publix (p. 14) River Garden (p. 15) Stein Mart (p. 10) Starling at San Jose (p. 21) Watson Realty Corp. David Butler & Clair Corbett (p. 13) Wolfson Children’s Hospital (p.16) Yemen Blues (p. 17)
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JEWISH NEWS credits Editor & Communications Director Natalie McElwee nataliem@jewishjacksonville.org Editorial Support Val Battini, Kelsey Schutter, Sherrie Saag, Karen Backilman Federation Executive Director Alan Margolies Federation President Ken Jacobs
Advertising Representatives Barbara Nykerk 904.733.4179 • 904.923-3205 Eta Perras 904.629.0466 Communications Committee Iman Byfeld Jon Israel, Chair Donna O’Steen Shirley Bielski Sherrie Saag Helen Hill Kari Bell Michele Katz Joan Levin Andrea Mail Rachel Morgenthal Marsha Pollock
The Jacksonville Jewish News is published monthly. All submitted content becomes the property of the Jacksonville Jewish News. Announcements and opinions contained in these pages are published as a service to the community and do not necessarily represent the views of the Jacksonville Jewish News or its publisher, the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. The Jacksonville Jewish News is not responsible for the Kashruth of any product advertised. Copy due dates: All news, photographs, etc., must be received by the 7th of each month, and sent to nataliem@jewishjacksonville.org. Ad deadlines: All ads must be received by the 15th of each month and sent to nataliem@jewishjacksonville.org in .pdf format. 8505 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32217 | 904-448-5000
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FEDERATION NEWS Hanukkah message from Federation Executive Director Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
BY ALAN MARGOLIES
Federation Executive Director
I
t is challenging to write a message including thoughts about what happened in Pittsburgh, when I know this will not reach everyone until the beginning of December. And yet, there are some things I want to share with our community. The week prior to the tragedy in the Jewish community of Pittsburgh, we were in Israel for the General Assembly (GA) of the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA). It was a joyful time for Israelis and North American Jews, and Jews from all over the world to be together.
The conference brought together Jewish people from all of our religious streams, to discuss issues that concern all of us today. The events of Shabbat on October 27 stand in such stark contrast to the GA! Another 11 names added to the memorial, reminding us of the impact of anti-Semitism on our Jewish people. With Hanukah on the horizon (first candle on December 2), it is important to see how much needed light was shed upon the Pittsburgh
Jewish community: *The Islamic Center of Pittsburgh within five days of the shooting donated over $140,000 to the Jewish Federation. *United Airlines provided free travel to anyone traveling to Pittsburgh for the funerals. *An anonymous corporation donated $1 million to aid the families of the victims and to help with future security needs. *The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with the Jewish Agency, dispatched the Israeli Trauma Coalition to Pittsburgh in the hours after Shabbat ended in Israel. *Chairman of the executive of the Jewish Agency traveled to
Pittsburgh. *The Pittsburgh Penguins hockey team raised money for the Jewish community. *United Way of Pittsburgh has worked in full cooperation with the Jewish Federation, JCC, JFCS and synagogues. *And, virtually every city in North America held solidarity vigils. In Jacksonville, we saw more than 1000 people gather at The Temple for our important event. In Jacksonville, we are blessed with outstanding synagogues and agencies. We respect one another and work extremely well together. The volunteer and professional leadership, and our rabbis, never take this for granted.
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On December 31, Myron Flagler will step down as the executive director of the JCA following 20 years of service. It has been a privilege to work with Myron. His contribution to the quality of life here in Jacksonville will always be appreciated. It might seem a cliché to ask everyone to remember, as we light the candles on our Hanukah menorahs, to count our blessings and appreciate anew how lucky we are to live in this wonderful community. Going forward, we will continue to do all we can to make our community a better place in which to live for all people. I hope this Hanukkah will be a happy time for everyone.
rGEN members gather before JCA Cultural Arts Festival event BY FAYE HEDRICK rGEN Director
Monday evening, November 5th, a fun crowd gathered before hearing from Izzy Ezagui, former IDF soldier and author. Izzy spoke about his experience before and after losing an arm in the Israeli army. rGEN was enthusiastic about this special evening’s partnership with the JCA’s Cultural Arts Festival.
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federation news
Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
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Annual rGEN Mini Mission takes community members ‘Here, There, and Everywhere’
BY FAYE HEDRICK rGEN Director
This year’s Mini Mission on Friday, November 9, was a great success. Haley Trager was our enthusiastic chairperson as we visited local partner agencies throughout the day. Participants visited Jewish Family and Community Services (JFCS), River Garden, The Jewish Community Alliance (JCA), The Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, and Torah Academy to see how Federation dollars directly save and change the lives of those around us. This year, the participants took part in a service project, helping to sort and donate toys for the JFCS Holiday Toy Drive. Participants heard from both Haley and Alan Margolis, our Jewish Federation of Jacksonville’s Executive Director, about the partnership programs we support overseas. Participants viewed two videos, one from JDC, American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, and one from JAFI, The Jewish Agency for Israel. These videos revealed how our community brings Jews to Israel, bringing Israel to our community, helps many of the world’s neediest, builds Jewish life and leaders, empowers all Israelis, and responds to global emergencies. Among this year’s participants were incoming Executive Director for The JCA, Adam Chaskin, and new Congregation Ahavath Chesed Rabbi, Rabbi Elizabeth Bahar. It was a special and unique opportunity to see and hear from local agency directors and school leaders about the ongoing communal ways our Jacksonville agencies support the Jewish community. The day concluded back at the JCA where the current JCA Director, Myron Flagler, told us about the amazing things happening under JCA’s roof and conducted a special and meaningful conversation about community. We were so excited to share our unique partnerships with those new and old to Federation and to Jacksonville. We have already heard back from participants eager to engage with our partner agencies and with our Federation.
rGEN, PJ Library to host Community Havdalah event Community-wide event to take place on January 12 at Jacksonville Jewish Center BY FAYE HEDRICK rGEN Director
COME TOGETHER with rGEN and PJ Library for a special Havdalah event on Saturday evening, January 12. We will join with our Jewish schools and agencies to close the Sabbath. The children from the DuBow Preschool, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, Gan Yeladim, and Torah Academy, along with members from The Temple, The Jacksonville Jewish Center, Etz Chaim, and Beth El are all encouraged to come. We will sing, make s’mores, listen to the guitar, and stories under the stars. The event will take place at 7:15 p.m. in the Ansbacher Pavilion located outside in the back of The Jacksonville Jewish Center. RSVP by Fri., Jan. 4, to events@jewishjacksonville.org
life and legacy
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
The best Hanukkah gift you can give your family: An estate plan
BY MARK MOSS
Law Offices of Mark F. Moss, PLLC
BeQuestions with Kellie Smith This month’s question comes from Federation Board Member Jen Plotkin: “I’d like to learn more about how to endow my Lion of Judah giving. What are my options?” This is an excellent questions and a topic that many women in Jacksonville care very deeply about. In fact, the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville’s Lion of Judah Endowment program is happy to report 16 endowed Lions. We are so proud of these women and their passion for the future of the Jewish community. For our readers who might not know: women in our community who give $5,000 or more to the annual campaign are recognized as a Lion of Judah. Lions proudly wear a gold Lion of Judah pin that symbolizes the strength of women. This group has grown to over 100 Lions since the program’s inception in 1972. The Women’s Division is launching a new program this year, the Lion of Judah Step-Up Program, which invites women to increase their gift over three years to the Lion of Judah Level while receiving the benefits of being a Lion, which include attending the annual event and the International Lion of Judah Conference. The pin is given as a gift in year three. Step-Up Levels: Year 1: $1,800, Year 2: $3,600 and finally Year 3: $5,000. Now let’s add the E for endowment: a LOJE is a permanent restricted fund, created to ensure the perpetuation of a donor’s Lion of Judah level annual campaign gift and is established with a minimum of $100,000 or more in the donor’s name. Creating a LOJE is a powerful statement of a donor’s commitment to tzedakah, providing a legacy for herself, her family and her community. Establishing a LOJE allows women the opportunity to endow her gift in perpetuity and ensure the community she is passionate about can continue to grow and strengthen in the future. A LOJE may also choose to enhance her Lion of Judah pin by adding a flame, known as the Or l’atid (light unto the future) to recognize this commitment. The Lion of Judah is a symbol of a Jewish woman’s strength, a symbol of her caring about the organized Jewish world. This incredible program has brought together women of all ages and from many walks of life and has played an essential role in advocating for social justice, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, preserving human dignity and building Jewish identity. Every woman has a unique family and financial situation. In recognition of different estate planning and tax objectives, a LOJE can be easily and positively designed to match an individual’s personal circumstances in a beneficial way. We can assist in the conversation or provide you with the necessary material to start the conversation with your financial and legal advisors to design a Lion of Judah Endowment that will
See BEQUESTIONS, p. 6
Hanukkah. Chanukah. Hannukah. Hannukkah. Channukah. Regardless of how you spell it, the Festival of Lights is quickly approaching. We’ll celebrate with dreidel, sufganiyot, latkes, and of course, lighting the Hanukkiah. Sure, everything sounds great so far, but you’re likely wondering ‘Mark, how does estate planning factor in here?’ Stay with me… After a long battle Judah and the Maccabees found a small amount of oil that burned for eight days. We all have heard the famous story. Oh, you heard a different story? Was it about the eight-day celebration following the rededication of the Second Temple, but did not have any reference to the miracle of oil? Or was it due to the fact that Sukkot could not be observed at its proper time due to the war, which led to the delayed observance of Sukkot that occurred on the 25th of Kislev? Among the most important Jewish holidays, how is there still so much confusion about the real story of Hanukkah? The Mishnah gives no details about the rules and customs of Hanukkah. The Torah provides no reference, since the Torah was already written. The Gemara provides a few more details, but only three lines are devoted to the events of Hanukkah; however, there are three pages that detail when, where, and
Mark Moss
how the Hanukkah lights are to be lit. When it comes to your life, wouldn’t it be great if there was just one story? It would prevent confusion, arguing, and unnecessary legal costs for your family. If only the Maccabees had better record keeping! While enjoying that delicious foil-wrapped chocolate gelt and family time, differentiate yourself from the Maccabees and ensure there is only one story about your life – and that you are the author. While estate planning – or life planning, as I like to call it – may seem like a taboo topic, it is a critically important one to discuss at the holidays. Family members may be scattered across the country, and rarely
find themselves all together. Take advantage of having your loved ones together and use that precious time to have the important conversations. In the spirit of Hanukkah, be the shamash for your family – take the lead and light the way for your loved ones to follow. These conversations do not have to be somber or morbid. They should come from a place of love and care. You love your family and do not want strife over who becomes the guardian of your minor children, what health care decision you would have made, what type of burial or funeral you would have wanted, or who gets your tchotchke collection(s), for example. These conversations are the first step in establishing your legacy. You may have the best latke recipe, but is that how you want to be remembered? What do you want to pass on to the next generation? Life planning goes well beyond simply who will get your assets. Planning is not just for the affluent. Be wary of online planning. Aside from the impersonal, detached approach, DIY planning can, and often results in, errors that are costly to correct. Why chance your family’s future to website instead of hiring an experienced professional? Ensuring your loved ones are taken care of once you pass speaks volumes to your character and how much you care for them. So, make sure that your wishes are known, will be legally enforceable, and that there is only one story for your legacy.
What’s On the Shelf: Antique and Rare Books Appraisal BY ALAN BREUS
The Breus Group Estate and Collectibles Appraisal and Brokerage
When faced with a deluge of “rare old tomes” how do you sort and separate the valuable finds? Consider the following before contacting a qualified appraiser of rare or antique books. We don’t read as much as we used to as we now have a more varied menu of life options and many of us wonder what to do with books that we have inherited or our own collected libraries that we or our heirs have little interest in maintaining. Titles We begin with the titles. Catcher in the Rye? For Whom the Bell Tolls? To Kill a Mockingbird? As reading was a major pastime (no TV) in the late 1800s and early 1900s, the printing of books, magazines and broadsides were the distraction of the day. Many fine volumes were written but unless the title endured the test of time as a real classic, it probably has not risen to be a collector’s valuable prize for sale or for donation. The Heir If you are an heir to known collectors who had an inventory of their library, they probably knew what information was important to document. This goes a long way for a rare or antique book appraiser to be able to research and judge the current market value. If they weren’t sophisticated collectors, but, rather avid readers, consider the following… The Dust Jacket Look at your books. Do you see a cloth or paper dust jacket protecting the covers? Throughout the nineteenth century, nearly all dust jackets were discarded at or soon
after purchase. Many were discarded in bookstores as the books were put out for display, or when they were sold; there is evidence that this was common practice until World War I. The period from the 1820s to 1900 was a golden age for publishers’ decorative bookbinding, and most dust jackets were much plainer than the books they covered, often simply repeating the main elements of the binding decoration in black on cream or brown paper. Cloth dust jackets became popular late in the nineteenth century. These jackets, with the outer cloth usually reinforced with an under-layer of paper, were issued mostly on ornamental gift editions, frequently in two volumes and often with a slipcase. Other types of publishers’ boxes that were also popular in the second half of the nineteenth century included those designed to hold multi-volume sets of books. The jackets on boxed volumes were often plain, sometimes with cutouts on the spine to allow the title or volume numbers of the books to be seen. After 1900, book bindings became less decorative making it cheaper for publishers to make the jackets more attractive. By 1920 jackets were regularly printed with multiple colors, broad advertising and blurbs; even the underside of the jacket was a new site used for advertising. Dust jackets from the 1920s and later were often decorated in art deco styles
sought by collectors. Some of these are worth far more than the books they cover. The most famous example is the jacket on the first edition of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, published in 1925. Without jacket, the book brings $1,000 or so. With the jacket it can bring $20,000 or $30,000 or more, depending on condition. First Editions Another key to establishing value is to uncover whether or not it is a first edition. There are standard identification criteria that first editions conform to because most, not all, first edition books follow an established identification method established by each book publisher. These first edition criteria are details about what a book looked like when it was initially printed as a first edition. These details include certain codes on the copyright page, the type of the binding, and particular text on the dust jacket. In addition to the first edition criteria, there are occasionally points of issue that describe a part of a book that changes during the first printing without the publisher’s standard first edition identification marks changing, thus creating some copies of the first edition that have the “point”, and some that do not have the “point”. The most common type of first edition points of issue are typographical mistakes that were changed during the first printing. In these cases, the copies with the mistake are more desirable because they represent the earliest state of a first edition. Those first sheets now form the issue point that collectors use to determine how early in the printing process the sheet was printed. Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huck-
See ANTIQUES, p. 26
For more information, contact Kellie Smith at kelliek@jewishjacksonville or 904-512-3796
life and legacy Join us Dec. 6 at Manifest Distillery for Hey B’nai… with special guests Mel and Debbie Gottlieb By Kellie Smith
The Young Philanthropy Program, B’nai Tzedek, is EXCITED to announce its relaunch! This impactful program for next generation grant making will launch with by awarding $45,000 in 3 three-year grants within our Jewish community! Each of our local agencies, schools and synagogues were invited to submit a request for funding of an existing or new program or need identified by their leadership. Voting for these submissions by the B’nai Tzedek “Next Gen Philanthropists” will take place December 9th, 2018 through January 15th, 2019 via ballot. The 3 winning programs will be announced thereafter and the first grant awards distributed in late spring. Each year, a grant report will be made available to fund holders in the young philanthropy program so that they can see the impact of the causes they have chosen to champion. The next generation in Jacksonville stand to inherit an incredible history of success
BeQuestions Continued from pg. 5 help each donor realize their philanthropic visions and, at the same time, meet the required criteria. There are various ways to create endowments, many of which do not have to be funded during a donor’s lifetime. Here are four different ways to set up a LOJE Fund: 1. Bequest in your Will 2. IRA’s and Retirement Plan Funds 3. An Outright Gift of Cash 4. Life Insurance Policy A LOJE fund created in the amount of $100,000 is expected to annually generate at least the Lion of Judah minimum of $5,000, calculated at a yield of 5%; a $200,000
and tzedakah. This special program gives the upcoming generations an opportunity to build on that success and to learn, over time, how to put passion into action within our community. These young philanthropists are the future of our community and they will soon, if not already, be filling seats on boards and choosing which local community programs will receive their charitable gifts. We are so grateful to community leaders Mel and Debbie Gottlieb for bringing this meaningful program to Jacksonville: “With my wife Debbie, we started the the B’nai Tzedek Young Philanthropy Program in 1999, to encourage the mitzvah of tzedakah in the Jewish youth of Jacksonville. We decided to invest in not just the “idea” of tomorrow, but in the “people” of tomorrow. We believe in the power of young voices and their ability to make a meaningful impact on the future,” said Mel Gottlieb. Please call Kellie Smith at 904-512-3796 with any questions you may have about this process.
fund will yield a minimum of $10,000; and a $1 million fund will yield a minimum $50,000 annually. LOJE funds are invested and prudently managed for maximum yield. If you are in the position to create your fund in life, you are able to see your fund at work and use it to inspire others. We are continually inspired by the dedication of all our Lions and have been challenged to reach 25 LOJEs by 2020. In January, I will accompany 12 Lions to South Florida for the International Lion of Judah conference to experience the power of Lions and to learn how we can better grow our endowment program in North Florida. Above all, I look forward to honoring the collective legacy of the Lions of Jacksonville.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
B’nai Tzedek Young Philanthropy Fundholders Jacob Abraham Madison Abraham Rachael Abram Ariela A. M. Allen Jordan Allerding Harrison Andrew Nicole Ansbacher Michael Appel Michael Appelbaum Eliza Aretz Benjamin Arnold Richard Bailys Nicole Bailys Geoffrey Berlin Samuel Bernard Susan Bernhardt Arielle Bernhardt Grace Beyer Jamie Bielski Allie Bielski Elizabeth Bistrong Alexandra Block Noah Jacob Borrousch-Rosin Zach Borrousch-Rosin Cory Brenenson Louisa Brinn Reecca Brown Rachel Buff Alex Caplan Benjamin Chafetz Danielle Cheiken Gabrielle Cohen Martin Cohen Benjamin Davis Julia DeBardeleben Joshua DeBardeleben Alyssa DeCrispino Rachel Dranetz Dalia Dryden Sophie DuBow Charlie DuBow Shira DuBow Allison Duncan Rebecca Duncan Zachary Edelman Jonathan Edelman Lauren Edwards David Edwards Haley Falick Joshua Feig Shira Ferman Talia Fetner Ben Finck Joshua Fleet Ariella Fleet Talia Fleet Adam Friedman Remy Frohman Austin Gardner Jennifer Gartner Delta Gatewood Hannah Gendzier Alyson Giambalvo Sienna Glassman Mathew Glassman Gabriella Glassman Julian Glassman Jacob Glassman Jennifer Goetz Andrew Goldman Elizabeth Goldman Brad Goldring Jeffrey Goldring Aliza Goldstein Max Goldstein Ilan Goldstein Scott Goldstein Barbie Goldstein Amanda Gomer
Jerry Gomer Edyn Gottlieb Alyse Granat Sydney Gross Madison Grosse Matthew Harris Benjamin Hecht Stephanie Hecht Jacob Hecht Lily Hernandez Craig Herring Max Horovitz Sarah Hunter Ayden Israel Brett Jackrel Emily Jackson Sarah Jacobs Joshua Jacobs Maiah Jaffa Ava Jaffa Garrett Jaffe Joshua Jolles Sarah Joseph Jack Joseph Caroline Joseph Maggie Joseph Seth Karstaedt Shaina Katz Rebecca Katz Erica Katzin David Kaunitz Sage Kaye Jillian Kight Lindsey Kight Matthew Kingson Sarah Kirkwood Jonah Kitay Shira Kitay Jessica Kopp Elissa Kraemer Jason Krantz Shelby Krantz Benjamin Lantinberg Hannah Leach Shimrit Lee Tal Lee Annie Levenson Eric Levenson Brian Levenson Noah Levin Stefanie Levine Kara Levine Emily Levine Victoria Levine Jenna Levine Ellis Levine Shosana Levy Rachel Levy Evan Levy Micah Lewis Danielle Lewis Itamar Lubliner Elior Lubliner Gabrielle Magid Sabrina Mail Jasmine Mail Faye Maiman Neil Maiman Elana Maiman Lauren Margol Ali Margolies Carolyn Margulies Daniel Marmelstein Sarah Miller Joshua Miller Jonathan Mizrahi Debra Mizrahi Hannah Mizrahi Eli Mizrahi
Ryan Mizrahi Max Mizrahi Evelyn Mizrahi Zach Mizrahi Vivien Moritz Zachary Morris Maci Morse Trudy Morse Rebecca Nathans Arin Nathans Sarah Neadle Erin Nicholson Eddie Norton Britney Norton Jacob Orender Zachary Orender Danielle Palombo Amy Perlman Ariella Phillips Harrison Phillips Jacqueline Phillips Montgomery F. Phillips Max Pittman Laura Platzer Sara Plotkin Shaina Plotkin Jereme Pozin Zachary Pozin Noah Pozin Charlie Raitt Ashley Reiter Aaron Resnick Louis Richman Sara Richman Jennifer Richter Lawrence Richter Luria Rittenberg Shira Rittenberg David Rivera-Clapp Leah Robbins Laura Rogovin Jessica Rogozinski Laura Rogozinski Dana Rogozinski Jonathan Rogozinski Zachary Rogozinski Max Rogozinski Danielle Rogozinski Abigail Rotenberg Jillian Rosenberg Gabe Rosner Adam Rothstein Nina Rothstein Sophie Rothstein Avi Rubin Micah Rubin Brandon Ruckh Sydni Rudowitz Josie Sagasser Jonathan Sandler Paul Sandler Ethan Sandler Laura Sandler Ari Sandler Zach Sandler Sarit Sandler Elan Sandler Dustin Sandler Brooke Saye Rachel Schemer Zachary Schemer Leslie Schemer Sarah Schemer Eva Schildhause Matthew Schimmel Jodi Beth Schneider Samuel Schwartz Harris Lee Schwartz David Selber
Jackie Selevan Alexandra Selevan Joshua Shapiro Jessica Shapiro Rachel Shapiro Jennifer Shorstein Mathew Shorstein Benjamin Shorstein Benay Shorstein Arnie Silverberg Alexandra Silverberg Matthew Silverstein Zach Silverstein Hannah Silverstein Justin Simmons Connor Simmons Lawrence Sims Logan Sims Caroline Snowden Kyle Solloway Rachel Solomon Samuel Sommers Cameron Spiritas Aaron Stark Rachel Stark Talor Stayer Robert Stern Logan Stern Joshua Stevens Carly Stevens Hannah Stone Lauren Tavar Sydney Teitelbaum Emily Teitelbaum Mason Teitelbaum Ariella Tesler Alec Tompkins Brandon Trager Elli Trager Brooke Trager Jacob Unger Andrew Vining Kyle Vining Arielle Wajsman Alexander Wajsman David Walker Rachael Warfield Erin Weintraub Rachael Weston Zach Whiteley Sam Whitman Sarah Wilde Parker Wilf David Wilf Jonah Willens Gabriel Willens Shea Beth Williams David Williams Michael Wohl Mitchell Wohl Rachel Wolf Jacob Wolfson Alex Wolfson Jared Wolfson Allison Wolfson Joseph Yarish Samuel Yarish Tania Yegelwel Scott Youker Steven Youker Reesa Zaifert Jeremy Zaifert Brooke Zimmerman Samantha Zimmerman Alyssa Zunic Ashley Zunic
federation news
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
The benefits of end-of-year giving
BY KELLIE SMITH
Director, Planned Giving and Endowments
Tax season is not welcomed in to our lives as other seasons are – celebrated with changing leaves, warm scarves and deliciously spiced coffee. And though there is a distinct lack of calculatorshaped cookies or decorative wreaths made of accumulated tax receipts, with the right information, you can joyfully prepare to manage your records, maximize your tax benefits and make a charitable impact all at the same time. First things first: in preparation for tax season, be sure to add up the money you donated to nonprofit organizations, synagogues, and schools. If you donated things like clothing, furniture or other household items, you need to determine their value. Make sure you use good judgment and don’t overvalue your donations. Note that the law now demands more substantiation than in the past to back up charitable deductions. Under the
old rules, taxpayers needed a receipt to back up any charitable contribution of $250 or more (a cancelled check was not sufficient). That’s still the case for contributions of $250 or more. But now you also need a receipt or a cancelled check to back up deductions for smaller donations as well. Be mindful that under the current tax law you can deduct charitable donations only if you itemize your deductions. For instance, let’s say that it’s getting close to crunch time and you don’t have a charity in mind to give your money to. Don’t fret! You can still take advantage of the tax benefits by opening up a Donor Advised Fund and giving the money away later on when you’ve had more time to make decisions. Your Jewish Community offers a competitive DAF program with a low threshold to open a fund. Here are some additional tips to consider for year-end giving: • A gift to a qualified charitable organization may entitle you to a charitable contribution
deduction against your income tax if you itemize deductions. You must itemize in order to take a charitable deduction. Make sure that if you itemize, your total deductions are greater than the standard deduction. If they’re not, stick with the standard deduction. • A contribution is deductible in the year in which it is paid. Putting the check in the mail to the charity constitutes payment. A contribution made on a credit card is deductible in the year it is charged to your credit card, even if payment to the credit card company is made in a later year. • Most, but not all, charitable organizations qualify for a charitable contribution deduction. You can deduct contributions only if they are made to or for the use of a qualified recipient. No charitable contribution deduction is allowed for gifts to certain other kinds of organizations, even if those organizations are exempt from income tax. Contributions to individuals, political campaigns, foreign governments, foreign charities, and certain
private foundations similarly are not deductible. • There are limits to how much you can deduct, but they’re very high. For most people, the limits on charitable contributions don’t apply. Only if you contribute more than 20% of your adjusted gross income to charity is it necessary to be concerned about donation limits. Under the new tax law, if the contribution is made to a public charity, the deduction is limited to 60% of your contribution base. For example, if you have an adjusted gross income of $100,000, your deduction limit for that year is $60,000. The rules on 20% limits and 30% limits are way too complicated to delve into in this space, if you have questions consult with your tax adviser to determine whether these other ceilings will apply. If you give an amount in excess of the applicable limitation to charity in one year, the excess is carried over for the next five years. • The IRA charitable rollover offers tax benefits for those that qualify. The IRA Charitable
Rollover allows individuals who are 70 1/2 years old to donate up to $100,000 to charitable organizations directly from their IRA, without that donation being counted as taxable income when it is withdrawn. This includes endowment funds created within qualified organizations. This is a great opportunity to create your legacy or help an organization secure their future. To qualify, contributions must come from a traditional IRA or Roth IRA, and they must be made directly to a qualified charitable organization. There are no holidays or rituals associate with tax season, and honestly, we can’t believe a jointfiling form printing party hasn’t caught on sooner. But no matter how you proceed through the coming seasons, remember that giving can be a tradition at any time of year in any cozy corner of our beloved community. The Jewish Federation of Jacksonville appreciates our donors, our friends and our families – we wish you smooth sailing through documenting deductions and a joyous New Year.
Dec. 5 Jewish Java features local author’s fascinating personal story BY ISABEL BALOTIN
Shalom Jacksonville Director
The Jewish Federation’s Shalom Jacksonville and River Garden Senior Services invite newcomers, locals and friends to Jewish Java at River Garden’s Cohen Auditorium (11401 Old St. Augustine Rd.). This popular monthly program, held the first Wednesday of every month, begins at 9 a.m. with a complimentary bagel brunch followed by an entertaining and interesting local speaker. On Dec. 5, Dr. Robert L. Gold will share his personal
story of discovery, “Searching Sing Sing Prison for My Father.” Among the 15,000,000 European immigrants who entered the U. S. in the first two decades of the 20th century, thousands settled in the slums of NYC. A small minority became criminals, and one of them was Dr. Gold’s father who was imprisoned in Sing Sing. And it is his tale, which Gold discovered when he was forty-years old, that is the subject of this fascinating story. Sing Sing in known for its high-profile prisoners, David Berkowitz, “ Son of Sam,” bank robber Willie Sutton and sadly, Ethel and Julius Rosenberg. Robert L. Gold is a professor emeritus of history,
and entertaining public speaker and a prolific writer. He has contributed articles and reviews to many magazines and newspapers in the Southeast and especially Florida. In St. Augustine, he penned the popular newspaper column, Essays from Eldorado, a historical script for sightseeing train guides and the story of the city’s 450year history provided to millions of visiting tourists. He is presently teaching a class for the OLLI program at UNF. Please RSVP by Dec. 2 by calling Shalom Jacksonville director Isabel Balotin, 904-448-5000 x 1206 or Shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org.
opinion Rabbinically Speaking: Changing Life With One Candle At A Time BY RABBI AVI FEIGENBAUM Etz Chaim Synagogue
Reflecting back on these past few months, one can’t help but be struck by the multitude of terrible tragedies that have occurred. From the horrific shooting of eleven synagogue worshipers, brutally murdered in the midst of their prayers; to the constant rocket attacks on our brothers and sisters in the south of Israel; and the list goes on. We have all reacted in some way or another. We are all looking for hope. We have attended candlelight vigils, we have heard emotional speeches by politicians and community members, and yet we still ask ourselves, “Now what? What do we do next?” But as much as the grief threatens to overtake us, I am reassured by the words of Eli Wiesel: “Just as despair can come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings.” We have within us the power to rebuild. To get back up and strengthen ourselves. To start again. But how do we find that inner strength under the despair and learn to channel it? The holiday of Chanukah is upon us. The festival of lights and latkes, of donuts and Chanukah parties. But leaving aside the fun and games, the main mitzvah of Chanukah is lighting the menorah. Every household is obligated to light at least one Chanukah Menorah. We light one candle on the first night, and build upwards, adding one candle every night. Think about every other time we light candles in Judaism. The Chanukah lighting is unique. Shabbat Candles – we light at least 2 candles every week. Havdalah – we take two wicks and put them together to create a flame. But on Chanukah, we start with just one. One candle. One flame. And then we build. Not by putting a group of candles together all at once, but slowly, adding one more candle every night. Why this change? The Commentaries explain that Chanukah is the guide of who to move forward from the darkness. All it takes is one small light. One small good deed. One hello to your neighbor; one smile at a co-worker. One small action, one small light – that leads to another. And slowly, every day, these actions add up, filling the world with light. But to start. Rather than despairing that the whole world is filled with darkness, start with just one candle, and see the world change with that small simple action. So while we cannot change the past, we can affect the future. It is up to us to learn from the past and look into the future. Let us unite to perform mitzvot and bring light into the world, rather than God forbid unite in the darkness of tragedy. And just like the Chanuka menorah – let us light the first candle, which will lead the way for so many more candles to come. Am Yisrael Chai.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
Shaliach Corner: October programs lead to inspiration BY ROTEM GABAY Community Shaliach
The month of November gave me amazing opportunities to lead a variety of Israeli educational programs in many agencies of our Jewish community. On the Memorial Day of the Prime Minister Itzhak Rabin, I met with the 3rd and 4th graders of the Religious School at The Temple. Together, we learned about democracy and different opinions. We used the “Point of View” cards and we saw the variety of types and faces of people. Then, we thought about the similarities and differences between them. On Rosh Chodesh Kislev, we blasted off to space with the wonderful students of the Torah Academy. We learned about Ilan Ramon, the first Israeli astronaut and about the fascinating project of Space II which plans to send the first unmanned Israeli spaceship to the moon in February 2019. One of my exciting special opportunities this month was to lead for the first time the “Medabrim Ivrit” program for American Hebrew speakers. Our goal is to get to know
other Hebrew speakers and to discuss of current topics in Israel - through these experiences, we will create a platform to improve our language skills.
I am full of motivation and inspiration for more amazing programs - in more many agencies and with more new people in our community.
THE Four Questions with Diane Rothstein By Jewish Federation of Jacksonville
Each month, we feature a Lion from our community. This month’s featured Lion is Diane Rothstein. Q: Why is being a Lion meaningful to you? A: As women we participate in making the world a better place as we create Jewish homes, raise Jewish children, and participate in our Jewish Communities. Being a Lion has allowed me the honor and privilege of being part of a global women’s philanthropy, to collectively participate in something much greater than myself, and to have an even bigger impact. As a group, we help to make the world a better place one person, one community, and one agency at a time, wherever the need might be. Q: What was your first Federation event? A: Honestly, it was almost thirty years ago and I don’t remember! What I do remember though are the wonderful women I met when I moved to Jacksonville who were so enthusiastic about Federation. Once I learned about all that Federation was doing, I became a supporter and participant. It has been an important part of my life, having chaired, hosted, served, and participated in a number of ways. My most profound memory though, is of my very first Lion of Judah meeting. It was so special to me to be able to participate at the Lion level, the women attending were those I admired, and it was being held at Epping Forest Yacht Club. We had two guest speakers - Jewish college students safely living in Israel, but only because they were in great danger in their country, and rescued from their dormitory by the IDF in the middle of the night. I knew then that I needed to support Federation to the best of my ability. It was so powerful to hear their stories, and to know that their beautiful young lives were saved because of Federation. Q: What is your favorite Federation memory? A: I have three actually! • A disaster occurred somewhere in the world, and Federation issued an appeal. In twenty-four hours we raised upwards of $35,000 in our community alone! • When I attended my very first International Lion of Judah conference, I looked around the room and realized that a
Mitchell and Diane Rothstein and Mary and Jeff Edwards
•
few thousand women had committed millions of dollars to Federation in those three days. It was amazing! And of course, my three Federation mission trips to Israel! We visited a number of agencies that Federation dollars support in Israel, and met people whose lives were changed for the better, because of that support.
Q: What Jewish tradition do you want to pass on to your children? A: Everything - I hope and pray! Tikkun Olam, good values, kindness, generosity, a life of purpose and service to others. We light candles on Friday night, and celebrate the Jewish holidays in our home. My children attended Gan Yeladim, Beth Shalom Hebrew School, Beit Midrash, Jewish camp, youth group activities, mitzvah projects, and have all been to Israel more than once. They are now wonderful adults and have begun their own Jewish traditions and practices at home and in their communities. They are living Jewish lives and I’m very proud of them!
December Mensch of the Month R
achel Brodsky is synonymous with fun, kind, and dynamo. She is always eager to help and to do. Rachel is thorough, and when a program, activity or event comes up, she’s the first to engage. Rachel is creative, detail oriented, and cares so much about her community. She currently serves as PTA President for The Martin J. Gottlieb Day School and The DuBow Preschool. Rachel and her husband, Colman, co-chaired this year’s River Garden Gala and planned a fabulous evening. Both Rachel and Colman are signed up to be in this year’s JJC Futures group, the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s Leadership Development Program. During the program, they will learn more about the history of the Jacksonville Jewish Center and help plan for its future. Rachel is passionate about her involvement in this community, her family, and being a dear friend to many. Rachel, Colman and their chilRachel Brodsky dren, Alex, Ansley and Ashton love to travel and love adventure. Rachel and her family are long-time members of our Jacksonville Jewish community and we’re so lucky to have their support and involvement. Mazel tov on being selected as Mensch of the Month, Rachel.
synagogue news
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
Community turns out for Mega Challah Bake By Talie Zaifert
Jacksonville’s third annual multi-generational Mega Challah Bake took place on Thursday, October 25, 2018, at Congregration Ahavath Chesed bringing together more than 200 Jewish women from around the community. The Mega Challah Bake began from the Shabbat Project, a global grassroots movement that brings Jews from across the world together around our shared heritage of Shabbat. The initiative was introduced in South Africa in 2013 and now communities all over the world are hosting their own Mega Challah Bake to bring Jewish women together to learn how to make and braid challah dough and learn about the significance of this mitzvah. This year, Jacksonville had the honor of having Ruchi Koval, parenting coach, author, educator, musician and motivational speaker, as a special guest to lead the challah making demonstration, which was a big treat! The evening included ingredients to make challah to bake at home, a buffet of many varieties of challah and dips, and music and dancing. Special thanks to the local partnering organizations of this event, Congregation Ahavath Chesed, the Jacksonville Jewish Center, Etz Chaim, Chabbad of North Florida, Federation’s Women’s Division and Beth El at the Beaches. A very special thanks to Host Committee Chair, Tammy Shumer and her wonderful team, Rivky Appelbaum, Henny Fisch, Rivkie Kahanov, Andrea Mail, Michelle Penson, Melanie Setzer and Talie Zaifert. Additional thanks goes out to all the event volunteers and generous sponsors!
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synagogue news
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
Temple Bet Yam to celebrate 25th Anniversary on Dec. 15 By Jacqueline Witte
The year was 1993 and two couples out for an evening concert both lamented the absence of a Reform Jewish congregation in St. Augustine. Together they planned to visit congregations in adjoining towns, but finding nothing that was comfortable they stated in jest, “We may have to start our own Congregation.” This they did. After contacting and getting guidance from the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, now the Union of Reform Judaism, they placed articles in the local newspaper and notices at Wal-Mart and Publix asking for responses from anyone interested in forming a Reform Jewish Congregation. To their surprise and delight the response was good and within several months they held a meeting at the St. Augustine Public Library with twenty-five people in attendance. Shortly thereafter the first service was held at the Village Academy, a local nursery school. The attendees brought their own chairs and were provided Xerox copies of a service in Gates of Prayer. The service lasted twenty minutes. Over the years other locations hosted the congregation, including the Franz Academy and the Unitarian Universal Fellowship. The new congregation took the name Temple Bet Yam or Temple by the Sea. A logo for the new Temple was designed by a local artist and included the Star of David and the ocean waves. The logo was repainted over a Century 21 real estate sign and hung adjacent to the Unitarian sign. Shortly thereafter the Congregation adapted a Constitution and was incorporated with the State of Florida. All was accomplished within less than a year. The one thing missing was a Torah. A small New Jersey congregation, which was merging with a larger one, donated one. A congregant who was visiting New Jersey agreed to bring the Torah to its new home. Continental Airlines, when learning of the contents of the large package, did not wish to place it in the baggage compartment and agreed to place it in a first class seat. The congregant rode in coach. Temple Beth Emet in Penbrook Pines, Florida, donated a “mobile ark” which they no longer needed. That Ark is now on permanent display. A congregant donated velvet fabric which was made into a Torah cover. The dedication of the Torah took place with a parade through downtown St. Augustine with the Torah riding in a carriage provided by the Gamsey Carriage Company and led by a motorcade provided by the St. Johns Sheriff. Klezmer music
was played by the St. Augustine Jazz Society as the Torah was passed from member to member and then place in the Holy Ark. In 1999 a building fund was established and a permanent Temple complete with a second Torah and a formal Ark was built in 2002. Located at 2055 Wildwood Drive, the Congregation has grown from fourteen founding families to over one hundred with services held twice monthly. The Congregation has an active Men’s Club and Sisterhood. It is a participant in many community activities including Dining with Dignity and an annual tree planting celebration. The Temple has a religious school, an adult education program, a choir, and hosts many social events. On Saturday, December 15, at 6:45 p.m.Temple Bet Yam will hold a special celebration for its twenty fifth anniversary. For more information please call 904 819-1875 or email tby25th@gmail.com.
Do a mitzvah - be a volunteer this December By Jacksonville Jewish Center
December 25 is our day to go into our community and feed our neighbors and we need YOU to help. We will be cooking, packaging and delivering holiday meals to 500 people who receive Meals On Wheels, while regular drivers enjoy the holiday with their families. We will be baking and packaging and delivering cookies to our first responders, who will be spending their holiday at work to help and protect us. Visitors to Jacksonville who find themselves here with sick or injured loved ones will appreciate the meals that we prepare and serve at both Ronald McDonald House and Helen’s House.
Veterans at the Five Star Veteran’s Center live there while trying to get their lives together. They love to have us come and not only feed them, but visit and talk to them. Those in our community who are homeless and spend the nights at our Sulzbacher Center look forward to the hot holiday meal that we will be preparing and serving to them. New this year will be cooking and feeding teens at our Youth Crisis Center and Touchstone Village. Some in the Youth Crisis Center have run away from home or have been shut out of their homes Touchstone Village provides transitional living services to young adults ages 18-21 who may be homeless, aging out of foster care or in a va-
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riety of other situations which limit self-sufficiency. They are looking forward to our holiday meal and interacting with us. Also new this year is a Game Day with residents at River Garden. This is a great opportunity to bring young children in to play games and interact with residents while a lot of staff are home with their families. For more information email Michelle Branly at michellebranly@hotmail.com or Rhoda Goldstein at rhodagoldstein@hotmail.com. You can sign up by going to Sign Up Genius at https://www.signupgenius.com/ go/60B0B4AA9A928A4F85-2018. Help us make this a wonderful holiday and mitzvah day.
Beth El Sisterhood Fashion Show gives to the community By Sherill Herzfeld
The Beth El Sisterhood’s annual Fashion Show was a huge success all around. The show featured fashions by Athleta of Town Center, Carla Shoes & Accessories of Ponte Vedra Beach and custom beaded cuffs by Erica Mesquit. “We had a record crowd in attendance,” Sherill Herzfeld, the fashion show chair stated. “It was a packed house at Beth El and everyone enjoyed themselves.” A prosecco bar with berries and finger foods by Jessica Day Healthy Gourmet made the evening special. Modeling the outfits were Beth El Sisterhood members. They had a “glam squad” to get them ready for the show. Many thanks were given to Susan Birch and her Dior makeup team
and to Sara Marvin and her Lux Hair Studio team. Community outreach is a priority for the Beth El Sisterhood. “Tonight, we collected donations in conjunction with Jewish Family & Community Services for a large number of Holocaust survivors in Jacksonville living under the poverty level” Sherill told us. Colleen Lloyd Rodriguez from JFCS spoke about how the donations help their cause as a whole. “It was astounding to hear how poorly they live and what the JFCS does to help them daily” Sherill added. For further interest in donating to JFCS, please visit jfcsjax.org. For further information on Beth El Sisterhood and Beth El The Beaches Synagogue, please contact the synagogue office at 904-273-9100 or visit us at bethelbeaches.org.
synagogue news
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
Chai Society honors Tricia Bettman By Helen Hill
Jacksonville Hadassah will hold its Chai Society luncheon on Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019, at Deercreek Country Club. Tricia Bettman, of blessed memory, will be honored posthumously with the first annual Tricia Bettman Leadership Award. The community is invited to attend this special event. Selected not only because of her dedication to Hadassah, Tricia held many leadership roles as both a volunteer and professional. She was a life member of Hadassah and served on both the chapter and region boards. She was active on various committees at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Tricia never stopped wanting
to give back to her community, believed in social justice and worked tirelessly to support campaigns and causes. She served as a docent at the Cummer Museum, belonged to several book clubs and ran a book club for seniors at the Coves Residences in River Garden Hebrew Home. Most importantly, she was a devoted wife, mother, daughter and sister to her family. Professionally, Tricia taught high school history and was a faculty member at UNF. In this realm, her leadership skills helped to serve as a positive role model for her students. Later, and for more than two decades, she ran her own successful company, the North Florida Center for Training and Development, leading semi-
nars and serving as a motivational speaker for corporations and the military throughout the country. “We are working with a group of some of Tricia’s closest friends and colleagues to put this program together,” Chai Society Chair, Jodi Seitlin, shared with us. “Tricia was, above all else, the best of friends to so many people from so many diverse sectors because she was genuine, dependable, and truly interested in nurturing meaningful relationships with others. Invitations will be mailed within the next few weeks. For further information, or to share your own personal reflections, memories, or special stories to be included in the program, contact Jodi at 904-254-2322 or jodiseitlin@gmail.com.
Rabbi Dr. Nadia Siritsky, MSSW, BCC to lead Temple Bet Yam By Temple Bet Yam
Rabbi Dr. Nadia Siritsky comes to Temple Bet Yam with a diverse background, having served as Vice President of Mission of a large interfaith hospital system. In addition to her congregational experience, at the Temple in Louisville, Kentucky, and also at Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, Rabbi Nadia has worked as an interfaith chaplain and psychotherapist in several settings including hospice and palliative care, as well as consulting, fundraising and grant writing for nonprofit organizations.
Rabbi Siritsky has lived in several countries, including studying in Jerusalem for almost three years. She was recognized as a Louisville Bingham fellow in 2016, working with the city to develop innovative new approaches to violence reduction, community outreach and health. She is passionate about working with interfaith families and “tikkun olam”- the “healing of the
world” one relationship at a time. She has spoken at several Union for Reform Judaism Biennials about how to create more inclusive congregations using evidence-based strategies. On November 2nd, she held her first official Sabbath prayer service, and was moved by the attendance and worship participation of non-Jewish clergy and community neighbors, who joined her in honoring the memory of those killed in Pittsburgh. She is looking forward to getting more involved in the broader community, and is grateful for the warm welcome that she has already received.
Spirational Shabbos with the Travelling Chassidim BY RACHEL SHYKEN Etz Chaim Synagogue
This past Shabbos, Etz Chaim welcomed the Travelling Chassidim to Jacksonville. Five couples made the journey from New York to fill our Shabbos with an incredible sound and beauty. The Travelling Chassidim travel the country every Shabbos, spreading joy, unity, and “classic Jewish spirit.” While here, the Chassidim lead an inspiring Friday Night Carlebach-style davening, harmonizing uplifting melodies to accompany the prayers. After dinner, a Chassidic “tisch” (oneg) brought additional
members of the community for singing and Chassidic stories, which continued through services and lunch the next day. The climax of this particular Shabbos was Havdalah. After the beautiful Shabbos spent with the Chassidim, they plugged in their guitars, violins, and microphones, arranged the piano, and showed us how the Chassidim “do” Havdalah. Upon finishing the prayers, the Chassidim erupted in dancing and singing bringing everyone to their feet while ice cream sundaes were served. The Travelling Chassidim were a wonderful addition to our Shabbos.
Elvis is back… at the Florida Theatre By The Temple
Jill Metlin, WRJ Temple Sisterhood YES Event Chair, invites everyone to the Premier Elvis Birthday Bash on Jan. 12, 2019, at 7 p.m. at the Florida Theatre. World class Elvis impersonators, Mike Albert and Scot Bruce, along with the Big E Band return to the Florida Theater to celebrate Elvis’ 84th birthday. Celebrate the birthday of the King of Rock and Roll while supporting the YES Fund, which raises money to provide scholarship assistance to
students training to be rabbis, cantors and Jewish educators. Tickets are $36 for prime center seating. “Dance in your blue suede shoes” at the Chart House, 1501 Riverplace Blvd 32207, for a Dutch treat Happy Hour at 4:30 p.m. Come early for discounted cocktails and free hors d’oeuvres. Have dinner, if you prefer. And we will carpool to the theater. To RSVP: $36 check made out to Temple Sisterhood, Attention: Elvis show, mailed to Temple 8727 San Jose Boulevard 32217 by Dec. 21.
synagogue news
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
A personal reflection
We came together to pay respect, to pray and to support each other Contributed by an anonymous community member
On October 27, an unspeakable act of violence and hatred occurred in the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh. Eleven innocent souls were killed that Shabbat morning. Two days later, on Monday evening October 29, the Jacksonville community came together in solidarity, seeking solace and comfort. Even one month later, the thoughts and feelings of that evening remain close to my heart - and for each of you who were present, I hope this captures the essence of this Vigil Against Hate. We came together to pay our respects to the those who died, to those who were wounded and to all of their families. Unfortunately, scenes of candlelight vigils throughout our country are not new, thanks to extensive media coverage, but this is the first one I have actually attended. I was surprised how moved I was, surrounded by an overflowing room of love and compassion. Throngs of people came to Congregation Ahavath Chesed. Some
parked at great distances and walked to the synagogue. Inside, walls were opened, chairs were added, and yet there were still people standing. Some came broken hearted, some came outraged, and some came to show respectful opposition for crimes against humanity. All stood together, lit their candles together and raised their voices together with pure and unfiltered reverence. We came together to pray. Thanks to Rabbi Elizabeth Bahar of Congregation Ahavath Chesed, Rabbi Yaakov Fisch of Etz Chaim Synagogue, Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner and Hazan Jesse Holzer of the Jacksonville Jewish Center, we were led to pray for the souls of those who died. We prayed for strength to see the light in times of darkness and to be a light in the world. We prayed for our country. We came together to support each other. Jews from every level of observance, Orthodox, Conservative, Reform – affiliated or unaffiliated. There was an outpouring of support from interfaith community. The clergy community from diverse backgrounds and leadership from
throughout the City of Jacksonville, including the Mayor and the Sheriff, attended. We stood beside each other, in many cases reached out to hold the hand of a stranger, and we literally “held each other up.” We were brought together because of an act of violence and hate -- hate directed to a religious group in a house of worship in these United States of America. It was a blatant act of Anti-Semitism. A chilling act of violence that for most Jews touched a nerve dangerously close to home. And yet, miraculously, this also is what brought us together. With gratitude to the 1200 individuals who attended Jacksonville’s vigil, and the thousands of communities across this nation who have also come together to stand united, we are reminded that we are not alone. Whether side by side or with miles between us, we are all one people. May we continue to reach out to each other to overcome fear and hate. May we continue to pay respect, to pray and to support each other in the shared vision of bringing peace and light into the world.
Crypto-Judaism in America: Discovery and Recovery of Jewish Identity in the 20th and 21st Centuries By The Temple
Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) will welcome Dr. Seth Ward, professor in the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at the University of Wyoming, on December 11 at 7 pm. The Dr. Larry and Kathy Kanter Fund for Jewish Preservation are the sponsors of this learning opportunity which is open to the entire community. Genealogy studies in recent decades have led to a stream of
individuals, many of Spanish descent, who recognize their Jewish heritage. In the Dr. Seth Ward Middle Ages, Spain was home to a large Jewish population but social pressures, persecution and the 1492 Edict of Expulsion led to mass conversion to Catholicism.
Many conversos, as they came to be known, came to the Americas. Many families retained kinship ties and a recollection of Jewish heritage for several generations, while most assimilated into the Spanish mainstream. Now, with the help of genealogy studies, identification of “strange” customs, artifacts or family traditions, we are discovering an astonishing array of approaches to Judaism. Dr. Ward’s presentation will place this phenomenon in the context of major trends of religious
change and development from WW II to the present and discuss its continuing significance in an age that emphasizes personal choice of religious and community identity. Dr. Ward received his Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD from Yale University. He is a Board member of the Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies and was the first Research Fellow at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Sephardic and CryptoJewish Studies Program. He has lectured throughout the world
including Israel, Canada, China, Britain and Spain. In addition to his academic interests in CryptoJews, Dr. Ward lectures on Jews of Muslim lands, Jewish-Muslim relations, Mormon-Jewish relations and Islamic sacred and legal texts about Jews and Israel. He is widely published in a number of scholarly journals and blogs at http://drsethward. wordpress.com. Dr. Larry and Kathy Kanter welcome the community to this learning experience. Wine and beer will be served.
December Jewish Java “Searching Sing Sing Prison for My Father” Wednesday, Dec. 5th 9:00-10:30 am River Garden Hebrew Home - Cohen Auditorium 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd
In the first two decades of the 20th century, 15M immigrants entered the U.S. from Europe. Among the thousands who settled in the slums of NYC, a small minority became criminals. When Prof. Gold was forty years old, he discovered his father was incarcerated from 1924-30 in Sing Sing Prison. Hear this fascinating story told by a very engaging speaker.
Robert Gold
(Prof. Emeritus of History)
Complimentary Bagel Breakfast by Reservation Only RSVP ASAP to Isabel Balotin at 904-448-5000 x1206 or shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org
community news
Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
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JCA Discover Culture Festival a great success By Jewish Community Alliance
The JCA annual Discover Culture Literary, Film and Arts Festival, held from November 1 to 15, was an immensely successful event with record attendance. The festival, which featured four author events, a book club, five films, a family concert and a cabaret, offered something for everyone. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, the JCA’s Jewish Cultural Arts Festival was free and open to the entire Jacksonville community. The festival opened on November 1 with author Martin Fletcher, who presented his novel, Promised Land, to almost 150 attendees. Fletcher enthralled the audience with his story of two brothers amidst the tumultuous early years of the Jewish State of Israel. He also addressed current global issues and discussed his approach of looking at these “big stories” through the lens of the “little” personal stories that define these moments. Day two of the festival brought a showstopping performance by the JCA Theatre department. Nothing Like a Dame brought renditions of favorite showtunes by Broadway divas of Jewish heritage to the JCA stage. Over 240 people came to hear local performers Christine Phillips, Aaron DeCicco and Kathy Sanders honor Barbra Streisand, Idina Menzel, Bette Midler, Bebe Neuwirth, Marissa Jaret Winokur and others. This Saturday night event was a hit and fun for all who at-
tended. Other author events included Israeli Defense Forces squad commander and Special Forces sharpshooter Izzy Ezagui who presented his novel, Disarmed, on November 5. The novel tells the story of his journey of recovery and perseverance after losing his arm in an attack near the Gaza strip. Ezagui spoke to an audience of over 100, that included attendees as young as 13, with an inspiring message of overcoming adversity. The excitement continued with author Marilyn Simon Rothstein, who brought laughs to Girl’s Night Out audience with her presentation of her hilarious and heartwarming novel, Husbands and Other Sharp Objects, on Novem-
ber 7. Author features concluded with a visit from Marc E. Agronin, a renowned geriatric psychiatrist, who challenged his audience to look beyond outdated notions of aging. For the second year in a row, the festival included a book club event, facilitated by UNF professor Kelsi Hasden. Participants in this event discussed New York Times bestselling author Chloe Benjamin’s The Immortalists and Skyped with the author. The festival’s family event with educational performer Miss Emily proved to be fun for all ages. Film showings also had record attendance with hundreds present at the screenings of A Bag of Marbles, Daughter of the Holocaust, which featured Jacksonville native Irene Jaffa’s family story, Sammy Davis, Jr.: I’ve Gotta Be Me, An Act of Defiance and Wendy’s Shabbat rounded out the festival films. This festival would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of festival chair Sherrie Saag and committee members Lisa Ansbacher, Nicole Brown, Susan Elinoff, Sunny Gettinger, Kelsi Hasden, Hazzan Jesse Holzer, Faye Hyken, Katie Kight, Dan Kossoff, Jan Margolies, Rachel Morgenthal, Sandy Oasis, Jennifer Plotkin, Edrea Porter, Emma Pulley, Jackie Simms, Michele Steinfeld and Eunice Zisser. Additionally, support from many festival sponsors made this important cultural arts event available to the entire Jacksonville community.
Jacksonville Hadassah presents “Women Who Lead with Jewish Values” By Jacksonville Hadassah
On November 13, Jacksonville Hadassah presented “Women Who Lead with Jewish Values,” a panel discussion of women exploring leadership in a Jewish way according to Judaic principles and values. Pictured (L to R) are Raquel Scharf-Anderson, Head of Schools, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School and the DuBow Preschool; Rabbi Shira M.T. Rosenblum, Associate Rabbi at the Jacksonville Jewish Center; and Mauri Mizrahi, Associate Administrator of River Garden Senior Services. Attendees contributed to The Hadassah Foundation, an investor in social change for girls and women in the U.S. and in Israel. Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, was founded over a century ago and has remained unwavering in its commitment to women’s health and well-being, to Israel and to Jewish values and continuity. To learn more, go to their Facebook page, HadassahJacksonville.
Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
Have a Happy Chanukah. And share what it means to you. #ChanukahPublix
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community news
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
Tikkun Olam... new perspectives on Israel BY JASMINE MAIL Tikkun Olam participant
Even though I’ve been to Israel with my family several times, traveling on the Tikkun Olam teen program was a very different way to experience the Jewish state. As I hadn’t been to Israel in three years, I was nervous not really knowing what to expect this time around. What I did know was that I would be living for two weeks with an unfamiliar Israeli family in our Jacksonville sister city of Hadera. What I didn’t know was whether I’d feel comfortable in this new environment. Because my older sisters, Sabrina and Zoe, had gone on this teen tour and loved it, they encouraged me to do the same. When we first arrived at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion airport, we were greeted by smiling Israeli teens holding welcome signs. To my surprise, I immediately felt like I was home. My host, Ayallah, and her family, consisting of her parents and three brothers, were very friendly and treated me like part of the family. I had Shabbat dinner, discussed Israeli and American politics, and practiced my Hebrew with them. Staying with Ayallah’s family was a completely different experience than the other times I had been to Israel. I loved being able to see everyday Israeli life. I didn’t feel like a tourist, because I was immersed in Israeli culture. Initially, I was worried about being on a trip with mostly complete strangers, but all sixteen Israeli and American teens got along really well. Because we were all Jewish and similar ages, we had a lot in common. Everyone immediately clicked. Surprisingly, the language barrier was not an issue, since the Israelis spoke English really well.
Even though, we’d spend almost twelve hours a day together, we never got tired of each other. Most evenings, after the formal activities were done, we’d choose to hang out at one of the Israelis’ homes. The Israeli teens taught us their favorite dances, songs, and phrases in Hebrew. I also had an amazing time getting to know Ayallah’s local friends. One of my favorite memories from the trip was when we worked in a camp with young Israeli children. The first day was a challenge. Because the little kids didn’t know Hebrew, it was hard communicating with them. Then we started doing activities with them. We made slime, did art projects, and taught the campers line dances such as the Cotton Eye Joe. I ended up bonding well with many of the children and was sad to leave. Being surrounded by mostly Jews was
another incredible part of being in Israel. I never felt as in touch with my Jewish identity than when I was in the predominantly Jewish nation. Since my school only has a few Jewish students, it can be hard to feel connected with Judaism. One highlight was having strangers say “Shabbat Shalom” to me every Friday when passing. I felt very safe in Israel, because I was in the Jewish homeland, surrounded by people with similar beliefs and background. Hearing the stories of the brave people who fought and died for the Jewish homeland at Mount Herzl was an emotional experience. What truly impacted me about the stories was learning that many of the soldiers were only a few years older than me. I can’t imagine what these eighteen year olds felt fighting and risking their lives for the Jewish nation. I remember in that moment feeling so proud to be Jewish and even more connected to Israel. Our two weeks in Israel were filled with a variety of activities, including visiting
different locations like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Akko, Masada, and Tzfat. Two weeks may seem like more than enough time to be in a small country, but I can’t wait to go back and experience more. While it was hard leaving Israel, it was so much fun having some of the Israeli teens visit Jacksonville. Things we take for granted like Target and our many fast food chains were new and exciting for them. Going with them to Universal and Aquatica in Orlando were among the highlights of their visit here. This trip has inspired me to get more involved with Israel and Jewish-related activities. I hope many other Jacksonville teens can experience this wonderful trip in the future. Hopefully, like me, they will make new lifelong friends. I am truly grateful to our Jewish Federation for sponsoring me on this unforgettable journey. Also, special thank you to Joan Levin and her family for the Joan Levin Gift of Israel subsidy!
Dine with the Jax Jewish Singles By Francine Smith
It’s a festival of lights year round at Clark’s Fish Camp. Come join us as we marvel at the many lights and enjoy the crazy ambiance. Clark’s Fish Camp offers a full menu of quality seafood, giant prime rib, and chicken in a rustic dining setting. For date and time, email francine.smith @comcast.net or call 221-8061.
A unique place to be Surrounded by a community of caring. Rated #1 in the state of Florida by U.S. News & World Report, River Garden delivers the highest
quality care with the greatest attention to every detail. We are sincerely grateful to our donors for their financial support. Your caring enables us to do what we do today and will help make us even better in the future.
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COMMUNITY news Mark your calendars for Mitzvah Day
Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
By Rhoda Goldstein
Our annual community mitzvah day is quickly approaching on December 25 and plans have been made for us to feed our Jacksonville neighbors and some of those who are here temporarily. Again this year, we will be working with the Aging True Agency and preparing and delivering about 500 Meals on Wheels to our community’s shut-ins. We will be needing help with the cooking, packaging and delivery of these meals. Those who receive these meals always look forward to our visit, not only with their dinner, but with our smiles and kind words. We will be cooking and serving hundreds at Sulzbacher Center and the new Sulzbacher Village, our home for the homeless in Jacksonville. This is another place where we offer not only food for those who find themselves without permanent shelter, but kind and caring people who are feeding them because they care. Ronald McDonald House is the place for families who find themselves in Jacksonville because of a sick or injured child. Many of them are here for extended treatment and look forward to having members of the Jacksonville community come in and prepare a hot meal for them after many of them have spent hours at their child’s bedside in one of our area hospitals. Helen’s House, like Ronald McDonald House, is a home away from home for families with loved ones at Brooks Rehab due to strokes or injuries. They too have spent hours at the side of their loved ones and are grateful to have us come in and prepare a hot holiday meal for them. Those who live at the Five Star Veteran’s Center are there for many reasons. Some suffer from PTSD and need treatment and shelter, some live there while learning a skill so they can go to work, and some are there due to homelessness. This is a special community and love to have us come in and not only feed them, but interact with them. New this year will be the dinner we prepare at our Youth Crisis Center and Touchstone Village. Founded in 1974 as Florida’s first runaway program, Youth Crisis Center has grown to one of the largest and best-known providers of services for youth and families. YCC’s emphasis on care is for those who have been exposed to traumatic situations such as divorce, homelessness, relocation, loss of life, and abuse. Having the Youth Crisis Center available helps to keep runaways and homeless teens off of the streets and out of danger. Touchstone Village is a Transitional Living program that has been developed out of a community need. According to the National Survey of Homeless Assistance Providers and Clients, 12% of the homeless population was 17-24 years old.
Within three years of aging out of the foster care system, the Annie Casey Foundation reports that 37% will be incarcerated and 50% will be homeless at some point, becoming our new homeless and “disconnected” population. Touchstone Village provides Transitional Living services to young adults ages 18-21 who are in extended foster care or may be homeless. Many of the residents have been in the foster care system and/or delinquency system and are without the resources needed to live independently in the community. Touchstone Village provides each resident with: Rental of an individual apartment on YCC’s campus for a nominal fee. While in residence theY get Life skills training, Academic monitoring and support, Career development training, and Mental health therapy and psychiatric services. Also on our list of mitzvah projects for this day are the packages of cookies that are baked with love and appreciation and delivered to our local area first responders. 2018 has been a difficult year for firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) personnel. Firefighters and EMS workers are often the first on the scene to not only witness an accident, injury or shocking event, but also deal with the emotional repercussions – both within themselves and their community. They are on the frontlines of emergency calls and, because one in five Americans has a mental illness, are likely to encounter someone in crisis. Over time, that takes a toll. First responders are more likely than members of the general public to develop behavioral health problems, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, and firefighters are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty .Do you know that the National Council for Behavioral Health has introduced the MentalHealth First Aid Fire/EMS module to provide a fundamental understanding of the common mental health challenges experienced by first responders and the skills to identify and respond to someone who may be in crisis. The program also teaches postcrisis strategies for first responders to better assess and access support for themselves, their colleagues and community members. You can help #BetheDifference for our first responders. First of all we can all Get trained. If you’re already trained in Mental Health First Aid – awesome! If not, look for a course in your area and bake some cookies or deliver some for our Mitzvah Day project. Success of this day depends on YOU! Please sign up NOW. For more information or to pick your place to volunteer, email Rhoda Goldstein at rhodagoldstein@hotmail.com or .Michelle Branly at michellebranly@hotmail.com
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JSU - Strengthen Jewish identity and connection to Israel By Joey Hamaoui
Jewish Student Union (JSU) is back for its second year here in Jacksonville. JSU is an organization that helps Jewish public and community day school students organize Jewish themed clubs in their schools. The local adviser joins the teens at their club meetings and they do fun Jewish-themed activities while enjoying free food. JSU opened modestly last year in Stanton College Preparatory School and this year had over 130 teens sign up for information about the club. This past weekend 5 teens joined the new city director on a weekend trip to North Miami Beach where
they joined together with over 100 teens from South Florida, Tampa, Orlando, Savannah, and Columbia. They spent an inspiring Shabbat together and then spent Sunday at Universal Studios Islands of Adventure. This year JSU is working together with teen leaders who’ve requested JSU come to their schools and we hope to open two new chapters by the end of the year in Atlantic Coast High School and Creekside High School. For more information about JSU or to request a club in your school please contact Joey Hamaoui at (305) 764-7212 or email HamaouiJ@DoJSU.org
Jewish Business Network: Biscuits, bonding and the business of law BY JUDITH FOX-GOLDSTEIN “Word by Word”
Hosted at Maple Street Biscuit, JBN members were taken on 40-year, professional journey of entertainment law, by attorney, Carolyn Herman. Carolyn Herman: Outgoing, intelligent, vivacious and, committed to the law and creative arts, Carolyn – a native New Yorker, and sole member of her Jacksonville Beach firm, takes a no-nonsense approach to avoiding disasters for her clients and uses real world strategies in an attempt to resolve legal issues that occur. Her enthusiasm for the creative arts, including film, music theatre, literature and the visual arts, has carried her through decades of exciting adventures, alliances and collaborations which have enhanced her life tremendously. With expertise in trademark, copyright and business law Carolyn is a graduate of Cornell University, Fordham Law School (J.D. 1977) and George Washington University National Law Center (LL.M. 1982). “My practice always has been about educating as well as advocating. I am also a former entertainment and intellectual property law professor. I have been a speaker at numerous continuing legal education seminars domestically and internationally.” Networking Benefits: Join JBN! Don’t Miss Out on Grow-
ing Your Business! There is no doubt that networking extends your reach to new clients, referrals and business growth. Interacting for mutual benefit, and the privilege of getting to know other professionals is one of the great advantages of our monthly JBN meetings. The best referrals come from people who know your skill level, personality and integrity. That insight can only come from truly understanding their business and trusting in the confidence you have in their integrity and business ethics. The goal of networking is to ‘grow your business’ and what better way than through direct referrals! It’s also very cost-effective because networking can be used as a tool to finding investors, customers, staff, suppliers and business partners. Your responsibility is to make certain you’re visible by attending meetings, giving presentations and building your reputation as a responsible, knowledgeable, reliable and supportive resource! Happy Holidays and we’ll see you in 2019! Stay tuned for details! Please mark your calendars for January 11, 2019 and join us for another fantastic meeting! If you’re planning to attend, RSVP to zach@stjohnsasset.com. Thank You and have a safe and Happy Holiday. Here’s to a wonderful New Year!
COMMUNITY news
Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
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Yemen Blues Headlines Winter Music Series at Jacksonville Jewish Center Contributed
Arik Einstein, Zohar Argove, Shlomo Artzi, Meir Ariel….the list goes on and on. Household Israeli musicians who are rarely known outside of Israel. More and more Israeli musicians are heading out of Israel to make a name for themselves on a global stage. Avishai Cohen, Idan Raichel, Kutiman, Balkan Beat Box. The world is coming to realize the deep musical traditions coming out of Israel. Yemen Blues, the newest Israeli darling to explode onto the world music scene is in high demand as they headline major music festivals from Sydney, Tokyo, Berlin, and New York. On December 20, Yemen Blues adds Jacksonville to its long list of cities demanding their presence. A collaboration between the Jacksonville Jewish Center and local music nonprofit Avant are bringing Yemen Blues for a free one-night performance. It’s the first time Yemen Blues will perform in Northeast Florida. Ravid Kahalani, Yemen Blues’ fearless leader, singer and front man recalls growing up in Elon Moreh, a small religious village in the desert of Samaria. Growing up in a religious home, Kahalani was exposed to Hasidic and Yemenite tunes from a very young age and synagogue life. “It was a Yemenite synagogue, a very simple building, and I remember the powerful feelings I had as a child when singing the verses of the prayers. It was always about singing and accurately pronouncing verses in a perfect Arabic accent.” In 2010, Kahalani founded Yemen Blues bringing together musicians from New York, Uruguay, and Israel. The musicians bring a variety of backgrounds, sounds, and musical styles resulting in the unique sound of Yemen Blues ability to bring Yemenite, West African, Latin, and Jazz influences together. Sometimes hailed as Arabic funk and blues, the ensemble has moved audiences around the world since then and worked with well-known producers and artists from around the world. “Being able to bring current Israeli artists that are creating a worldwide buzz is exciting,” says Jacksonville Jewish Center’s Hazzan Jesse Holzer. “Last year, we partnered with Avant to bring Pharaoh’s Daughter to Jacksonville from New York. It was one of the most talked about concerts we’ve produced, and we wanted to continue our partnership with Avant by bringing Yemen Blues here. It’s important for people to know that Jewish culture, especially its musical tradition is something that is still being written, contributed to, and bringing light into the world. It’s an honor to bring that to Jacksonville.” The Jacksonville Jewish Center continues to positively impact the community with music from Jewish artists around the world. The Jacksonville Symphony regularly plays in the sanctuary as part of the Center’s commitment to bringing music to the Jewish community. Yemen Blues speaks to a wider audience merging the mixed Yemenite culture of Muslims, Christians, and Jews with contemporary overlays of rock, blues, jazz, and funk. Equipped with a microphone and a gimbri (a three-string bass originating in Morocco), deep vocals, and magnetic energy, Israel’s newest musical missionary is determined to spread his message to a diverse audience. “Avant’s mission is to enrich community by revealing the power of music through
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diverse arts experiences,” says Keith Marks, founder of Avant. “Avant is intended to bring people together, exposing new cultures, and giving people a proverbial passport into other cultures. Music allows people to melt away allowing people form different walks of life to be in a room, share an experience, smile in unison, and, hopefully, walk away feeling enriched through a shared community experience. Yemen Blues is exactly the type of artist we envisioned when we launched Avant.” Avant, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, launched three years ago with a gift of a catalogue of Jewish music to the Jacksonville Public Library. Since then, the organization has produced eight large-scale productions, many featuring prominent Jewish musicians from around the United States. Since its inception, Avant has turned into a weekly radio show on WJCT and produced a number of film screenings, and educational/community programming. Most recently, the group brought Jewish ensemble Rashanim for a concert at the Museum of Science and History’s planetarium. Yemen Blues’ performance in Jacksonville is an opportunity for a wide audience to come together to celebrate culture, music, and humanity. “A lot of people take music as entertainment or something that will make them feel a certain way,” Kahalani says. “But music is actually a reminder of how to behave in front of each other. Music shows us how to be a human being in this world.” For more information or to register for tickets, go to avantcurious.org or call (386) 295-3687.
education news
Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
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Michele Block Gan Yeladim partners with Jax Zoo for in-class learning By Roxanne Gordon
Every year, Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten partners with several local organizations to offer enrichment opportunities to students in the arts, sciences and other disciplines. Through a partnership with Jacksonville Zoo, a representative will visit the school’s Teddy Bear classes for three special learning sessions this coming January. Students will receive a special treat with this zoo visit. The first program, “I Like to Move It, Move It!” explores the mobility of various animals. Students will have the opportunity to study how different classes of animals move, including snakes, insects and larger, four-legged animals. They will also participate in fun exercises to emulate these movements. In the second program, “Zoo Babies,” students learn about the development stages of different animals, including the infant stage and growth to maturity. They will also receive a lesson on how baby animals survive in the wild. The final program, “Sense-sational animals” provides a sensory activity for children to have in person interactions with animals and learn about them. This partnership is another way Michele Block Gan Yeladim connects students to nature and the environment and provides engaging enrichment opportunities. For more information on this program, contact Roxanne Gordon at 730-2100 ext. 259.
Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, DuBow Preschool students celebrate Grandparents, Grandfriends By Brian L. Pargman
Over 70 grandparents and grandfriends packed the Benjamin Setzer Social Hall at the Jacksonville Jewish Center on November 8 as invited guests of DuBow Preschool and Martin J. Gottlieb Day School students. Hugs and kisses were plentiful as Bubbies and Zaydes were treated to a delicious breakfast. After a welcome and a school update by Head of Schools, Raquel Scharf-Anderson, the attendees listened to Karen Hanson from Jacksonville Family & Community Services speak about the importance of cross-generational relationships and the positive impact that those relationships can have on a young person’s life. Students threeyear-old to grade 8 treated the guests to a beautiful rendition of Hineh Ma Tov and Oh Hanukkah. Mrs. Scharf-Anderson remarked, “it was a wonderful turnout and it truly was an honor to share all of the wonderful things that take place at our schools everyday. We loved hosting so many friends and relatives who play such a meaningful role in our students’ lives!” As a special gift to the Grandfriends and Grandparents, a complimentary family portrait was taken at the conclusion of the event and will be mailed to each family.
Torah Academy visits Jaguars Stadium By Torah Academy of Jacksonville
Torah Academy upper grades took a field trip to TIAA Bank Field, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Students were provided VIP access to the facilities. They learned about the various career opportunities associated with professional sports and stadium life, from reporter to player to owner…and so much more - students were encouraged to dream big! They even met Shad Khan’s personal valet and chef who taught them about the induction cooking surfaces located in Mr. Khan’s private viewing box. TA students had a great time learning all about the nitty gritty details of what goes into football night, as they enjoyed a guided tour and a full hands-on experience!
education news
Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
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Martin J. Gottlieb Day School third graders participate in virtual learning By Lisa Ross
Third graders at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School have been traveling a great deal this year. They have been to Montana, Utah, South Carolina, Wyoming, and Georgia. You might wonder how they are paying for all this travel. It’s actually free because they have been participating in Mystery Skype sessions with other classrooms and museum docents. Lisa Ross, their third grade teacher, wanted to find a way to make the social studies content about geography meaningful to her students. Mystery Skype sessions provide students an authentic way to learn about geography. Through a secure website two classrooms connect with each other and students ask questions to try to guess where the other class is located. They may ask only “yes” or “no” questions. For example, when the class recently skyped with students in Montana, they began by asking questions such as, “Are you in the Southeast region of the U.S.? Do you border an ocean? Does your state border Indiana?” Each class took turns asking the questions. Once students determined the location of the other class they got to know each other. They learned about their climate, natural resources, hobbies and curriculum and found out how much they had in common and how they differed. One unanticipated benefit of these sessions is that students in
Torah Academy adopts new Israeli homeland virtual curriculum By Torah Academy of Jacksonville
the class learn how to explain about the kippot our boys wear. “The boys wear a kippah on their head to show respect for G-d,” a student explained. Our third graders showed off the variety of designs and some of our students were surprised that there were people who didn’t know what a kippah was. Imagine the gasps of disbelief when the students learned that the children in those classes might not ever have met a Jew-
ish person before. Mystery Skype sessions are a great way to get students hooked into learning about the world. In this classroom’s case, connecting virtually has been all about geography, but while engaging in the activity, the students also work on their speaking and listening skills, their critical thinking skills, and collaboration skills--all transferable competencies that prepare our students for success.
Torah Academy’s fifthsixth grade started a new and exciting curriculum harnessing the power of technology and the internet to learn more about our homeland, Israel. Students are offered a weekly virtual session with a live teacher in Israel. Although we may be thousands of miles apart, the webcam, digital projection, loudspeakers and workbooks lend the feeling of sharing the room with the instructor. The name of the program is Eretz Chemda which literally translates as the desirable land. The first lesson focused on what makes Israel so special and why it is indeed the object
of insatiable desire by so many of the world’s countries, religions and nationalities. As the year progresses, students will be learning about other aspects of the Holy Land, focusing on the special mitzvot which can only be performed there. The teacher is very engaging and students quickly warmed up to him. It was pretty cool to see him point and say, “You, sitting in front in the middle - what’s your name?” As an experienced educator, he rapidly learned the students’ names and began calling on them as they raised their hands to eagerly participate in the discussions. Students are loving the lessons and gaining a deep appreciation for Jewish life in Israel.
education news
Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
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Torah Academy presents Art Fair & Poetry Recital
Michele Block Gan Yeladim Educator Support Network has successful first meeting By Roxanne Gordon
The Michele Block Gan Yeladim Educator Support Network began in November with a meeting focused on building a school family. The network is comprised of a group of over thirty educators selected from attendees to the 10th annual Michele Block Gan Yeladim Early Childhood Professional Conference that was held in October. It includes eight follow up learning sessions, four of which are facilitated by Nicole Mercer, the conference keynote speaker and expert in positive guidance and conscious discipline. In the first network meeting, the cohort learned about creating safe spaces for children to encourage learning. Participants examined the connection between a supportive school family and children’s comfort
DuBow Preschool, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School admissions news By Brian Pargman
The excitement is apparent throughout the hallways at the DuBow Preschool and Martin J. Gottlieb Day School and the admissions cycle for the next school year is in full swing. Admissions Director, Amanda Watsky, reports that enrollment is up 25% this year and she is busy helping prospective families with their enrollment needs for the 2019/2020 school year. “Parents have been very impressed with our new STEAM LAB and the fact that we offer students the opportunity to learn another language. Combined with our Judaic Studies program, we offer students a unique experience, unlike any other that you will find in the Jacksonville area.” Prospective students are encouraged to spend part of the day visiting classes so they can see first hand what a typical day looks like in the schools.To find out more about the schools programs or to schedule a personalized tour, contact Ms. Watsky at amanda.watsky@mjgds.org or 904-268-4200.
with asking questions and exploring, and they were introduced to “I love you” rituals which help children feel safe and loved as educators build a school family. The next meeting is scheduled for December and will focus on handling challenging behavior, including tantrums in the classroom, as well as using positive guidance to understand the root of challenging behaviors, the various developmental stages and how to respond to challenging behavior. Other important points to be covered are keeping composure and building resilience. This cohort provides a valuable opportunity for educators to elevate their everyday practices and increase the opportunity for success in the classroom. The Educator Support Network will continue over the next year.
By Torah Academy of Jacksonville
Students in the 3rd and 4th grades researched poems that spoke to their hearts and senses of humor. Led by Mrs. Kimberly Monsalve, selections included works by poets the likes of Sara Allen, James McDonald, and Kenn Nesbitt, to name a few. Each student then prepared a canvas drawing depicting the theme of the poem. After weeks of preparation and practice, students were psyched and ready to display their artwork and recite their poems to the public. Families and community members convened at Torah Academy for the recitals and art presentations, as each student presented to those gathered. It was truly an inspirational event with each student’s personality on full display; some eliciting wild laughter and others bringing the crowd to tears. We look forward to the many other programs and fairs scheduled throughout the year where TA students will be afforded additional opportunities to explore other aspects of their creative potential and learn how each and every one of them can truly shine!
education news
Michele Block Gan Yeladim positive guidance conference a success By Roxanne Gordon
On Tuesday, Oct. 16, Michele Block Gan Yeladim hosted their 10th annual Professional Development Conference at the Jewish Community Alliance. One hundred and seventy educators joined keynote speaker Nicole Mercer to learn about the principles of positive guidance and conscious discipline. Thanks to generous sponsorship by the Chartrand Family Fund, The Community Foundation of Northeast Florida and CSX, the conference was free and open to the community. Mercer, a conscious discipline certified instructor and educator with over fifteen years’ experience incorporating the techniques of positive guidance and conscious discipline into her curriculum, created an open environment for attendees to grasp methods for use in the classroom. Her keynote has
been described as “relatable and understanding of the challenges of both teaching and parenting.” The address covered the mental, social and emotional development of children and how to understand and connect to their perspectives in order to address children’s needs. Mercer used various analogies to remind participants of the limitations of child expression and provided methods to responding to child behaviors that take those limitations into account. The event also included a presentation for parents the following morning where Mercer shared ways to incorporate methods of positive guidance within the home. Over the next year, a group of select participants will continue the study of positive guidance in an Educator Support Network. This network includes monthly meetings, some of which will be facilitated by Mercer.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
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Children’s Book Drive December 3rd – January 11th
We need your help! Join us as we collect books for
school children in Israel. You can help by dropping off picture books or easy readers (new and gently used) at the Federation through January 11th. For more information, please contact Jill Abel: JillA@JewishJacksonville.org Work: (904) 224-1445 Cell: (904) 477-2235
New Fine Arts curriculum at Torah Academy By Torah Academy of Jacksonville
Torah Academy is very excited to announce that we have added some wonderful new elements to our Fine Arts curriculum for our kindergarten through 8th grade students. Girls in grades 3-8 are now enjoying a class entitled Dance and Movementby Mrs. Rivky Appelbaum, a personal trainer and skilled athletics instructor. Simultaneously, the boys are attending a course on Choir and Vocal Training with Shlomo Li, a music fellow-
MOCA Continued from pg. 1 ville Jewish Center’s cantor, Jesse Holzer performed the Had Gadya. “We try very hard to make sure our children understand art is in everything and this demonstrated the ties between education, religion,
ship student at University of Florida, Gainesville. Rabbi Rabinowitz, a veteran Judaic studies teacher, is lending his musical talents in helping guide this pro-gram. In addition, Kindergarten through 2nd grade students are learning Music Theory with Shlomo Li as well. Students are being introduced to the skills associated with voice modulation and the ba-sics of rhythm and tone. We are very excited to be incorporating these valuable state standards into our weekly schedule! and art in an impactful way,” said Rachel Scharf-Anderson Head of Schools. This is the first exhibition to focus exclusively on the vital role that world literature played in his powerful exploration of the print medium. (insert Melanie Setzer Quote) Special thanks to Bruce and Edith Horovitz, Hazzan Holzer, Preston and Joan Haskell, MOCA staff and especially the
Zimmerman Family for this meaningful day.his working process in all media-and represent a technical and expressive milestone in printmaking. Nearly 100 Martin J. Gottlieb students and faculty perused the gallery as the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s cantor, Jesse Holzer performed the Had Gadya. “We try very hard to make sure that our children understand art
is in everything and this demonstrated the ties between education, religion, and art in an impactful way” said Rachel Scharf-Anderson Head of Schools. This is the first exhibition to focus exclusively on the vital role that world literature played in his powerful exploration of the print medium. “This field trip was truly a gift to the students of Martin j gottlieb
day school. To seize an opportunity to connect their Jewish heritage to contemporary art, at our very own MOCA, was exceptional,” said Melanie Setzer, parent of Martin J. Gottlieb Day School students. Special thanks to Bruce and Edith Horovitz, Hazzan Holzer, Preston and Joan Haskell, MOCA staff and especially the Zimmerman Family for this meaningful day.
Hanukkah event listings Etz Chaim Synagogue December 8 at 7:15 pm at Etz Chaim Synagogue: Join us for fun activities for the kids, food, games and see who our Top Jewish Chef Competition winner will be!
Jewish Community Alliance
Sunday, Dec. 2 1 – 5 p.m. Holiday Shopping Trip Grades K – 5 can join JCA Youth Services for a trip to the Town Center on Sunday, Dec. 2 from 1 – 5 p.m. The fee is $30 and $20 for JCA valued members.
Chabad December 2 1:30 PM Hanukkah @ the Landing with Tali Yess As the Jacksonville Jewish Community anticipates the arrival of the holiday of Hanukkah; Chabad’s attention is directed towards the 25th “Annual Hanukkah at the Landing” event to be held on Sunday, December 2.
“If you think that Jews don’t have fun in December, you have yet to attend this exciting celebration of Jewish culture and pride” according to Rabbi Yoseph Kahanov, regional director of Chabad in Northeast Fl. This year’s event will feature: Talented Musician and popular singer, Tali Yess. Tali is a young reMonday, Dec. 3 cording artist strongly influenced by modern day 5:45 – 7:30 p.m. Jewish artists and the music of his father, the legJCA Hanukkah Party Join the JCA for its annual JCA Hanukkah Party endary Chassidic Folk Singer/Songwriter Moshe Yess. While studying music in University, he also as we light the chanukiyah and enjoy dinner, songs and crafts. Free for JCA valued members developed a strong attraction to the heartfelt soul stirring Niggunim (Chassidic Melodies), specifionly. Tickets are available at the JCA Front cally those without words..Tali’s musical repertoire Desk. Registration required. is vast and spans across generations of both Jewish and American music and he inspires audiences Tuesday, Dec. 4 across North America. His Hanukkah Line-up 3:30 – 5 p.m. includes a sampling of the various genres. You can Sammy Spider Sufganiyot expect to clap, sway and dance! Children, ages 2 – 6, can hear the Hanukkah story and bake jelly doughnuts to celebrate the Additionally Captain Character will be there with holiday. The fee is $8 and $5 for JCA valued his famous balloon twisting and face painting members. Kicking off the event is the annual Hanukkah Car Parade – a beautiful demonstration of Jewish Wednesday, Dec. 5 pride and solidarity. Over one hundred vehicles, 4 – 5 p.m. adorned with custom designed Hanukkah flags, Holiday Cookies for All Share the joy of holiday festivities with a cookie (free to all participants) are expected to join the caravan towards the Landing. bake and take at the JCA. The fee is $15 per The convoy including Chabad of Southside, family and $10 per individual. Registration Beaches, St. Augustine, Clay County and St. Johns, required by December 3. will gather at 1:30 pm and depart 1:50 Sharp from Chabad regional headquarters in Mandarin. Chabad @ the Beaches will gather 1:15 and depart at 1:30 sharp. All locations will join a single procession towards the Jacksonville Landing, December 9 Hogan Street Entrance, where the Hanukkah event 12:00 PM JFCS Hanukkah Party for Holocaust Survivors at will take place. The fun-filled afternoon will feature a variety of Jacksonville Jewish Center Music program and latka buffet lunch. RSVP to kiosks and exhibitions, including: ∙ Judaica Gifts, books and more Gail Furman at gfurman@jfcsjax.org. ∙ Judaica Art ∙ Hanukkah Donut Decorating ∙ Carnival Games and Inflatables ∙ Olive Press Demonstration Temple Bet Yam celebrates Hanukkah and Shab- ∙ Hanukkah Arts ‘N’ Crafts bat with a short service, a pot luck dinner with ∙ Candle Making ∙ Face Painting potato latkes, and a Hanukkah play on Friday, ∙ Burgers, Hot Dogs, and Falafel December 7. The festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. Congregants will bring their menorahs and the ∙ Popcorn sanctuary will be aglow with the lights of many ∙ Free Latkes! ∙ Free Raffle! Hanukkias. The Religious School students, joined by several of our congregation, have pre- Dignitaries and Public officials will convey Hanukpared a skit with a modern twist on the Hanuk- kah greetings and well wishes to the Jewish community. kah story. Chag Chanukah Sameach! The grand Menorah lighting will be held at 5:00 pm. Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival celebrating the liberation and rededication of the ancient Temple Shabbat worship with JAFTY and Friday Night in Jerusalem begins at nightfall, Sunday, DecemLive at 6 pm ber 2nd and is celebrated for 8 days. The Festival Friday, December 7, 2018 is marked by the lighting of an eight-pronged Hanukkah Celebration continues with dinner, Candelabrum called a Menorah, or Chanukiah, games and fun for all ages! commemorating the symbol of victory of a small Temple partners with JFCS Clothes Closet. Jewish army against a vastly oppressive Assyrian Bring new jeans and/or jacket. Sizes 6x - 20 ap- Greek regime during the 2nd century BCE. preciated. The Annual Menorah Lighting and Fair is open $20/Temple member and $24/non-member to the public and free of charge. Food and other (Adult price is $30 after December 2) items will be sold. Participants will be treated to $12 for children 12 and under delicious hot potato latkes and prizes. FREE for children 3 and under If you’re looking for good, kosher family Hanukrsvp@TheTempleJacksonville.org or call 733kah entertainment, don’t miss this spectacular 7078 Celebration. For more information regarding
Jewish Family & Community Services
Temple Bet Yam
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
the parade and/or program, please contact your nearest Chabad Center. Sponsored by Chabad of Northeast FL. Mandarin/Headquarters. Beaches. Southside. S. Augustine. Clay County. S. Johns
Michele Block Gan Yeladim welcomes shaliach into classroom activities By Roxanne Gordon
Michele Block Gan Yeladim has welcomed community shaliach Rotem Gabay to their school. Rotem joins Judaics instructor Morah Karen in providing engaging classroom activities. He brings his expertise on Israeli and Jewish traditions and holidays, and shares cultural practices through games and sports. He also assists in facilitating programs for holiday celebrations, parties
and more. The opportunity to have a shaliach in the classroom brings many benefits such as exposing children to Jewish culture and traditions from a young age, including Israeli music, language and art. It also encourages diversity awareness and acceptance of differing cultures. Michele Block Gan Yeladim is excited for this opportunity for cultural exchange and further support of Judaics in the classroom.
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jewish community alliance
page 23
Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
Let your inner rock star take center stage at the JCA’s Annual Fundraiser
#shinethelight at the JCA Hanukkah Party By Jewish Community Alliance
On Monday, Dec. 3 from 5:45–7:30 p.m., the JCA will hold its annual JCA Hanukkah Party. The event brings member families together to recognize the start of the eight-day festival of lights with an evening of celebration and community. As in prior years, the JCA Hanukkah Party will include a gathering outside to light the JCA’s giant outdoor chanukiyah, created by local artist David Ponsler. This year, JCA Board President Brent Trager will officiate the lighting ceremony, and JCA Family and Jewish Outreach Director Dave Flagler will lead prayers and songs. After the lighting ceremony, JCA families will enjoy a festive, family-style dinner and games and crafts for children. This event is free to JCA valued members. Registration is required by November 28. Admission tickets will be available at the JCA Front Desk. For more information or to register, call 730-2100 ext. 228. On the day of the event, use #shinethelight and tag the JCA (@jaxjca) in your Hanukkah celebrations.
By Jewish Community Alliance
Save the date for the Jewish Community Alliance’s 2019 annual fundraiser, Let’s Rock! The event will take place on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. with the Berman and Stoddard Families serving as honorary chairs. “The JCA is an important part of the Jacksonville Jewish community and has been significant to my family since the beginning. We are thrilled to support this important fundraising effort benefitting so many who otherwise would not have access to the JCA and all it has to offer,” says Rochelle Stoddard, JCA Board Vice President and Berman and Stoddard family
event liaison. This fundraiser, which benefits the JCA’s annual fundraising campaign, supports many JCA programs as well as membership and assistance for families in need. Last year, the JCA awarded more than $330,000 in scholarships for children, families and senior adults. As part of the JCA’s mission, we never turn anyone away for their inability to pay. Sponsorships and ticket sales are crucial to the success of this event. For more information regarding tickets or sponsorship opportunities for the event, please contact Kendall Sisisky Valliere at 730-2100 ext. 231 or kendall.valliere@jcajax.org.
Jewish Community Alliance HAPPENINGS Dec. 2018/Sh’vat Adar 5779
For more information or to register for programs at the JCA, call 904-730-2100 or visit our official website at www. jcajax.org.
Vandroff Art Gallery
The work of Keith Doles will be featured until January 2. The reception for this exhibit is on December 2 from 3 – 5 p.m.
Sunday Film Series
See Berlin Correspondent (1942) on December 16 at 2 p.m. This is free and open to the community.
Inside Israel Film Series
The Band’s Visit screens on Monday, Dec. 17 from 7 – 9 p.m. This is free for JCA valued members only.
JCA Winter Basketball Camp
This camp, from December 26 – 27, incorporates highintensity training to improve overall skillset. Contact Mike May for details at ext. 254.
Mary Poppins
JCA Performing Arts for Children presents Mary Poppins on December 1 and 8 at 7:30 p.m. and December 2 and 9 at 1 p.m. Tickets are $7 at the door.
Jacksonville Teens Volunteer
On Sunday, Dec 9 from 1 – 4 p.m., teens ages 12 – 18 can volunteer to make magic reading blankets with JCA Youth Services.
Dinner with the Artist: Keith Doles
See into the New Year
Join our December Vandroff artist for a Dutch treat dinner at River & Post to learn about his process and what inspires him on Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 6:30 p.m. The fee is $8 and $5 for JCA valued members.
Holiday Shopping Trip
On Sunday, Dec 9 from 1 – 4 p.m., teens ages 12 – 18 can volunteer to make magic reading blankets with JCA Youth Services.
Bowden Eye Associates hosts a free eye and aesthetics (Botox, fillers, etc.) screening on Thursday, Dec. 6, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Grades K – 5 can join JCA Youth Services for a trip to the Town Center on Sunday, Dec. 2 from 1 – 5 p.m. The fee is $30 and $20 for JCA valued members.
Volunteer
JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE 2018 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $189,197
jewish family & Community services briefs Volunteers rally around JFCS
page 24
Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
Board Focus: Daniel Sandler By Jewish Family & Community Services
PJ Library
PJ Library, the award-winning free program for books and music is open to all families with Jewish children in Jacksonville. If your children are between the ages of six months and eight years, they are eligible. Please sign up now by going to pjlibrary.org/communities/jacksonville, or calling Whitney Kuvin at 904-394-5724. Volunteers meeting in JFCS’ Chartrand Tolerance Education Center: Arlene Adelson, Sarah Bailey, Gayle Bailys, Suzie Becker, Stacey Blum, Kelly Corbett, Cecilia Cristol, Patrikia Dallas, Nancy Davis, Helen DuBow, Sue Eaglstein, Mary Edwards, Jackie Goldman, Irene Jaffa, Amy Juall, Francine Kempner, Ginny Lafer, Nancy Lantinberg, Michelle Margol, Nancy Nykerk, Debbie Parker, Amber Piernick, Barbara Resnick, Ellen Rosner, Debra Setzer, Chair, Lauren Setzer, Melanie Setzer, Judy Silverman, Kimberly Sisisky, Chair, Cheryl Stein, Lonnie Steinberg, Sara Tans, Staci Wilf, Eunice Zisser Not pictured: Erica Jolles, Ginny Lafer, Jodie Leach, Andrea Mail, Rachel Morgenthal, Kim Robbins, Stacey Rohrer, Tammy Shumer, Kim Silbar, Linda Stein, Sheri Weiss
Meals4You
JFCS in partnership with River Garden is pleased to bring you our meal program, Meals4You, from our kitchen to yours. Meals are delicious, nutritious, convenient and delivered right to your door. Jewish dietary laws are observed. Call Whitney for more information at 904-394-5724.
Call2Go
JFCS is now using a Lyft product called Concierge, which allows JFCS to arrange rides on behalf of its clients, including the ability to schedule rides up to a week in advance. Lyft has also partnered with GreatCall, a senior-focused cell phone company, which will help seniors use Lyft without having to navigate the smart phone app. Anyone using a Jitterbug phone can now simply press ‘0’ and arrange a ride with the company. To learn more or schedule rides, please call Whitney Kuvin at 904-6609268.
Jewish Healing Network
Become a Jewish Healing Network Volunteer at JFCS and help us fulfill the mitzvah of Bikkur Cholim. 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, please call Gail at 904-3945723.
By Jewish Family & Community Services
A dedicated team of over 40 volunteers gathered in the Chartrand Tolerance Education Center at JFCS to discuss how volunteers can help with vital needs in the core program areas of our social services agency. Debra Setzer and Kimberly Sisisky co-chair the Programs & Services Committee and described many volunteer and giving opportunities. Following is a list of opportunities. PJ Library: Volunteering to help with events as well as reading opportunities Holiday Gift Giving: JFCS needs help in all aspects of giving holiday gifts to more than 1,400 children and seniors this season Holocaust Survivor Food Program: Volunteers are needed to help package and make food deliveries to Holocaust survivors in Jacksonville.
Monthly Hello: Many Jewish seniors live alone and have no family. Volunteers are matched with a Jewish senior and visit once a month in their home. Administrative and Clerical: Answering phones and providing reception service at JFCS Tutoring: Tutoring and academic support to middle school students Max Block Food Pantry: Stock and fill Max Block Food Pantry shelves, assist staff serving families coming in to receive food, and, when a delivery truck arrives, unloading and stacking for later unpacking – e.g. for Thanksgiving and the Holiday season. Fanny Landwirth Clothes Closet: Unpack bags of donated clothing, sort and hang up clothing for clients, assist clients when picking out clothing.
Eight Jewish, eight Muslim women meet in Chartrand Tolerance Education Center By Jewish Family & Community Services
In September, Sabeen Perwaiz, Executive Producer of TedX Jacksonville, launched a women’s group focused on dialogue between Muslim and Jewish women in Jacksonville. The setting for these dialogues would be one in which women would feel comfortable asking questions they might not ask elsewhere. Lev B’lev (Heart to Heart) will gather 16 women (8 Jewish & 8 Muslim) over a six-month period to do just this. At the request of these women, the meetings will be held in different Jewish and Muslim spaces. The first meeting was held in the Chartrand Tolerance Center in the Alan J. Taffet Building of Jewish Family & Community Services on Sunday, October 14. After the meeting, Sabeen lead a tour of the Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery. If you need space for a program of social or cultural significance, please contact Geege
Sabeen Perwaiz
Schuman at gschuman@jfcsjax.org or (904) 394-5720. Our Chartrand Tolerance Education Center is designed to facilitate your meeting needs.
Born in Canada, Dan moved to Jacksonville as a teenager. He graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and a Master of Business AdminisDaniel Sandler tration from the University of Central Florida. His background in strategic marketing and advertising has given him the experience needed to successfully market brands for both B2B and B2C companies throughout their lifecycle. Dan served as a marketing strategist for the Orlando Sentinel, a Tribune property. While there, he worked on campaigns for Pepsi, the launch of LEGOLAND, Nemours, Publix, Pizza Hut, Winn-Dixie, multiple movie studios and more. Dan currently serves as the head of marketing for Isel, an industrial lubricant manufacturer based out of Jacksonville. In this position he directly oversees the marketing and creative team for the organization, as well as branding, promotions, lead generation, market research, creative endeavors and communications. He has been a critical leader for the launch of multiple new product lines and the complete rebranding of the company. Dan is a board member for the Jacksonville chapter of the American Marketing Association. He also has served on the board for Isel and IDCH Management. Dan chaired the IDCH management independent director search committee, leading to the hiring of three independent directors. He also co-chaired the CEO search committee for Isel. In his personal time, Dan volunteers for MakeA-Wish, Give Kids the World, FARE, and other charity groups. His wife of nearly 15 years, Rachel Sandler, is a teacher for the St. Johns County public school system. Rachel also volunteers for JFCS’ PJ Library program. Dan and Rachel have two amazing children, Jordan and Alexis. Dan has built his career successfully finding the best ways to position brands in the marketplace and his goal is to do the same for JFCS by way of leading the Marketing and Communications committee. Thank you, Dan, for all that you do for JFCS!
Shalom to new Director of Development
United Way rally a success
By Jewish Family & Community Services
By Jewish Family & Community Services
Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS) is pleased to welcome Susie Menaged as Director of Development. Susie brings more than 13 years experience in development, including major gifts, annual giving, volunteer recruitment and management, special events, public relations and grant writing. As Director of Development for JFCS, she will lead the completion of JFCS’ $6M capital campaign, head the agency’s April 4th annual fundraising event, and continue to develop strong relationships within the entire Northeast Florida community.
JFCS’ team of 187 individuals dedicated to helping people help themselves gathered together to raise money for the United Way of Northeast Florida. Staff organized a bake sale, raffled off prize baskets, had dress-down days, and even signed paycheck deduction agreements. The United Way of Northeast Florida solves our community’s toughest challenges by connecting people, resources and ideas. They are one of JFCS’ strongest partners.
JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES 2018 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $269,311
river garden senior services
Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
page 25
A Spirit of Thanksgiving By River Garden Senior Services
904-260-1818 www.rivergarden.org 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32258
briefs Adult Day & Support for Caregivers If you or your loved one needs a little extra support, we invite you to attend a monthly caregivers support group or ask about the River Garden Adult Day program. For more information contact Dr. Sue Krall, PhD, ARNP. 904-886-8421 or skrall@rivergarden.org
River Garden would like to recognize the volunteers, donors and families that help make our community thrive. Thousands of volunteer hours are recorded each year at River Garden, adding an extra special touch to the care we provide. We also appreciate the dedication of our Auxiliary, board members and trustees. Their contribution of time and energy is priceless. In late October, River Garden was once again rated by US News & World Report World Report as a top performer in our field. Our
donors are a key to this success, as their contributions fill financial gaps left by other payor sources. Our superior care and programs would not be possible without this fiscal support. Lastly, we are grateful for the overall support of local families and the Jacksonville Jewish community. Our agency is founded on principles of honor and love. We are thankful to all who embrace and promote these same values. If you’d like to join our volunteer team, make a yearend donation or visit our campus, we’d love to hear from you. Our doors are always open.
Look at the masterpieces: Cooperative Art with Children & Adults By River Garden Senior Services
There is no shortage of talent at River Garden, especially when it comes to working with a paintbrush. On Sunday, October 28, Chrissy Granados, Expressive Arts Coordinator, guided adult-teen painting pairs through an exercise called ‘Partner Painting.’ Starting with a blank canvas, simple sketch and reference photo, each team works to recreate a piece of art. The end result is an amazing wall display outside of our rehabilitation pavilion. Leslie Held, Director of Jewish Life, coordinated the activity with Amanda Collins, Youth Services Director, and teens from the Jewish Community Alliance. She says, “These projects are a positive way to connect the younger generation with our residents and Members, sharing a common interest to create beautiful paintings. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome!” If you’d like to learn more about intergenerational opportunities at River Garden, please contact Leslie Held at 904-886-8429.
Purposeful Living Our campus is home to many devoted and caring volunteers whose acts of kindness make a real difference. From teens to those who are young at heart, we invite you to become a part of our team. Create your own convenient schedule and experience personal fulfillment. Contact Leslie Held at 904-886-8429 or lheld@rivergarden.org Remember River Garden when honoring or memorializing your loved ones Donating to River Garden is an uncomplicated, feel-good activity. Here are several ways we’ve made it easy for you. Simply go online: www.rivergarden.org/donate Or mail to: Development Department River Garden Hebrew Home 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd. Jacksonville, Florida 32258 Or call: 904-886-8432 From Generation to Generation L’Dor V’Dor Remember River Garden and the entire Jewish Community in your will.
- Please Note As an integral part of the River Garden community, you have priority access to our care system when our programs can best meet your needs
River Garden Senior Services
Admissions: 904-886-8420 Adult Day Care: 904-288-7858 Donations: 904-886-8432 Foundation: 904-886-8430 Home Health Care: 904-288-7851 Rehab/Therapy: 904-886-8454 The Coves: 904-292-2683 Volunteers: 904-886-8429 CEO Marty Goetz: 904-260-1818
Upcoming events at River Garden Senior Services December 11 Pick n’ Paint Pottery Palooza
Bring your artistic spirit for a fun evening of ceramics at River Garden. We have hundreds of ceramics pieces ready for you to create your very own masterpiece. After just a couple hours of painting and socializing, you will have created a wonderful work of art, and your handiwork will be ready for pick-up within 7-14 days. Refreshments provided. Please make your reservation a.s.a.p., as space is limited. $25.00 per person. Barbara Safer— 268-1329 or barbsafer@aol.com.
January 22 Donor Luncheon
Celebrate a Tropical Paradise with the River Garden Auxiliary as they host their annual Donor Luncheon at River Garden. Doors open at noon; plan to come early so you can check out the raffle items and socialize before lunch. Tickets are $40 and there are also various levels of sponsorship that help fund the Auxiliary’s mission to help the residents of River Garden with special quality initiatives. Please remember this is one of the Auxiliary’s biggest fundraisers of the year so we hope to have everyone fully support this event. Mark your calendar now and look for your invitation to arrive in early January. If you have a question, feel free to contact Ellen Rubens, event chairperson, at (904) 651-6607.
RIVER GARDEN SENIOR SERVICES 2018 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $177,607
lifecycles Mazel Tov
Antiques Continued from pg. 5 leberry Finn has over seven documented (and corrected) mistakes during the printing process. If you have all of them (or many of them) in your copy, it can be worth over $10,000. Other copies with a few mistakes are usually worth between $500-1,000. These issue points can be found in online references to bibliographical information gathered on each book.
Mazel Tov to Paul and Kalpana Berman and big sister Nadia Anjali of Portland Oregon, on the birth of their son Ethan Ajay Berman on Tuesday, September 4 th 2018. Proud grandparents are Eric and Polina Berman of Jacksonville and Arun and Malathi Palaniappa of Coral Springs, Fla.
Sympathies The Jacksonville Jewish Center community is saddened by the passing of Annette Bursteen, the mother-in-law of our member, Russell Selevan, just after midnight on November 18th. We extend our condolences to her family: children Alan (Dawn) Bursteen, David Bursteen, the late Ilene (Russell & Fran) Selevan; and grandchildren Jackie, Hope, Mandi, Marisa, Bailey, Braden, and Brooke. Contributions in Mrs. Bursteen’s memory should be directed to the Ilene Selevan Endowment Fund at the Jacksonville Jewish Cente. May the Holy One comfort the members of Annette Bursteen’s family among all the other mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
To submit an item for lifecycles, please email it to nataliem@jewishjacksonville.org. Due date is the 6th of the month.
Tal Continued from pg. 1 Q: What was your career like before Maskit? A: I studied in Shenkar Collage in Israel (ranked number 6 in the world for fashion design) and did my internship for two seasons with Alber Elbaz for Lanvin. Then I moved to London and started working for Alexander McQueen as the head designer for embroidery. Q: What made you want to go into the fashion industry? A: I always liked the creation process and wanted to be part of it. I was thinking which design segment I should choose; whether product design or fashion design and today I am enjoying both worlds. Q: You were a head designer for McQueen. What made you decide to return to Israel? A: I got pregnant while working with McQueen and return to Israel to give birth. After spending time with family and friends, I felt at home and decided to stay in Tel Aviv. Q: What has your journey been like with Maskit? A: Maskit is definitely a journey. It started almost seven years ago when I met Ruth Dayan, the founder of Maskit and spent a lot of time with her doing research and understanding the origins of Israeli fashion. After two years of research, we decided
page 26
Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
Signed Copies Always look for author autographed books. An author’s signature and possibly a personal comment can mean an increase in value of ten times or more of the book
Flagler Continued from pg. 1 the Parker Family. The first Chanukkah party was held in December of 1999 and has become one of the agency’s most festive annual events, bringing hundreds of member families together. The year 2001 saw the naming of the building after David Stein, and in 2005, the JCA preschool was renamed Michele Block Gan Yeladim in 2005 in memory of founders Mickey and Beverly Block’s daughter. “Myron is the consummate professional educator. He uses every opportunity imaginable to help unite and grow our Jewish Community. JCA staff adore him, his colleagues love him, and the community is infinitely better and stronger because of him. Professionals of Myron’s caliber do not come along all that often, but when they do, they make all the difference in the world,” remarked Martin Goetz, CEO of River Garden Senior Services. More milestones accompanied these early achievements, including the addition of a kindergarten program to JCA early childhood education in 2000, the
in most cases. For example, an unsigned copy of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Tender is the Night without a dust jacket might bring around $300. With a simple signature, it could bring $8,000. In November of 2004 a copy that was signed and given to the poet Archibald MacLeish brought $23,500. As Part of an Archive Books may contain compilations of documents and papers that are part of a larger collection, often with original handwritten passages and notes. There are also volumes to sets that include letters, state documents and rare engravings such as “The Life and Works of Abraham Lincoln” by Nicolay and Hay. The 24th volume contains 30+ such gems that increase the value of the set many fold.
creation of the J Institute in 2005, a Capital Campaign in 2006 to raise funds to expand building space—which led to a new and improved, state-of-the-art fitness center, art and ceramic studio, expansion of the Dubow Adult Center and the addition of new ECE classrooms—and further expansion of early childhood education in 2014. Flagler’s commitment to connecting the agency to Israel and Jewish culture was exemplified through the organization of JCA Staff Israel trips in 2012 and 2016. In partnership with the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville, the community welcomed its first shaliach in 2016. “It has been my pleasure to work in partnership with Myron during his time at the JCA. How fortunate are we that we had the best JCC director serving our Jewish community! We have accomplished things that no other federations and Jewish community centers have even attempted, including our trip to Israel and sharing our shlichim,” said Alan Margolies, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. Myron has prided himself on establishing partnerships with leaders, staff, community members and colleagues, such as with Baptist Health to establish the Wellness Connexion, a free wellness service to help people achieve their wellness goals. Under Flagler’s guidance, the JCA has
Alan Breus is one of the top estate appraisers in the country, and member of the editorial board of Trusts & Estates journal, Alan advises and consults with universities, charities, brokerage firms and accounting firms in the areas of estate tax, insurance and non-cash related donations of fine art objects and insurance related financial instruments. For more information or inquiries about your own personal collection:
Website: http://www.thebreusgroup.com Phone: 408-660-7071 Email: alan@thebreusgroup.com alan@thebreusgroup.com
been a leader in the JCC Association’s Excellence in Benchmarking survey since 2010, in addition to the recipient of 66 JCC Association Biennial Excellence Awards. This past January, at the JCA 30th Anniversary Celebration, Flagler announced the establishment of the Sol and Hilda Goldman Memorial Endowment for Early Childhood and Camp Scholarships for $4.5M a gift that is no truer testament to the JCA’s work and growth under Myron’s leadership. As an agency and a community, the JCA honor’s the achievements of the last 20 years and Flagler’s dedication to serving the Jewish community and the Jacksonville community at large and his commitment to upholding the JCA mission. “Working with Myron for the past 20 years has been a valuable experience. As a leader, he always provided vision for the agency and was accountable, in control and decisive. He built a team of dependable and awesome staff with incredible longevity and always preached the one thing we can count on is change itself. We will approach this change as in the past with intention, thoughtfulness, adaptability and gratitude for Myron’s amazing work and for what we have to look forward to in the future!” said Nancy Green, JCA assistant executive director.
to revive the brand and give it a new life with Ruth’s support and wisdom. Five years ago, we have launched Maskit and the journey continues. Q: What keeps you inspired in your work? A: Traveling Israel from the desert to the Golan Heights and meeting local artists. Q: What inspired your new collection? A: The last collection was inspired from the Sodom and Gomorrah story which is a world of inspiration. Q: What is your favorite part of what you do? A: I like the process of development, when the sketches become a clothing piece and we are trying it on a human body. I like when customers find a piece that match their personality and they are very happy. Q: What has been the best moment in your career? A: Wow, a tough question... I think the first show when we launched Maskit with 1,500 people in the audience and Ruth Dayan on the stage celebrating her 97th birthday was an amazing climax. Q: What are your goals for the future? What do you hope to accomplish with Maskit? A: We would love to bring Maskit back to its good times when it was an international fashion house inspired from Israel. I want people to wear it and enjoy it all over the United States.
Sunday, February 3
adult education Upcoming events at JCA
December 4 6:30 – 8 p.m. The Scoop on Poop Functional medicine nutritionist Trisha Howell teaches you how to manage the reoccurrence of gastrointestinal annoyances. The fee is $5; JCA valued members are free. December 6 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. See into the New Year Bowden Eye Associates hosts a free eye screening for health and aesthetics (Botox, fillers, facial rejuvenation, etc.). Appointment required. Call 730-2100 ext. 228. Free to the community. December 6 7 – 8:30 p.m. Dealing with Toxic People Join counselor Karen Hanson to learn how to reduce anxiety, ease tension and avoid clashes when dealing with people. Advance registration appreciated. The fee is $5; JCA valued members are free. December 10 6:30 – 8 p.m. Medical Marijuana: Is It for You Herbalist Tali Kentof and medical marijuana practitioner Dr. John Simons discuss the different types of marijuana and how they can work to reduce pain. The fee is $5; JCA valued members are free.
Upcoming events at Jacksonville Jewish Center Weekly Programs: Monday Minyan Mapquest Monday mornings, following morning minyan: Rabbi Lubliner takes us on a tour of Jewish cities, explaining history and current statistics of some wellknown and not-so-well-known Jewish communities around the world. December 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Talmud Class Rabbi Lubliner explores communal responses to crisis in tractate Ta’anit. Open to all! Mondays 7:00 p.m. December 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Beginning Hebrew Reading 10:30 am at the JJC Class is closed, but a new class will begin in January. Please contact Lois Tompkins at LTompkins@jaxjewishcenter.org to get on the list! December 3, 10, 17 Foundations of Judaism class Sundays 10:15 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Classes are held at the Center, and are open to all, whether you are considering conversion, seeking to understand a friend or relative’s religious choices, or simply trying to go beyond your childhood Jewish education. In November, we’ll cover Unit 3: “Rhythms of Jewish Living” as we explore Jewish calendar, Shabbat, and prayer. December 2, 9, 16 ShalOM Meditation Please join us for 25 minutes of meditation in a Jewish environment! At 9:15-9:30, we will offer some basic instruction of meditation technique and approach. We will start our actual practice at 9:30 and go until 9:55 (in time for the Torah service). We meet in the Kramer Library at JJC. December 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 December 7-9: Marilyn and Louis Safer Shabbaton Open to the community! The Center welcomes Rabbi Dr. Analia Bortz. Call 292-1000 for more information about the many free events throughout the weekend. December 9: YIDDISH “CLUB” This is a group of people who meet monthly to enjoy Yiddish culture and language. We begin
with a short lesson, watch videos, listen to Klezmer music, and/or discuss Yiddish stage, movies, and humor! Perfect for ALL, whether you know the language or not please join us! We meet in the Kramer Library (JJC) 12:30-1:30. December 11: Center Book Club open to all interested adults. We meet in the Starbucks section of the Barnes & Noble Book Store on San Jose. The book for December is The Lost City of Z, by David Grann December 15: Coffee & Torah Third Shabbat of every month Come enjoy a strong cup of brew, a tasty breakfast treat, and thought-provoking insights into the weekly Torah portion in the intimate setting of Rabbi Lubliner’s office. 8-9 a.m.
Upcoming events at Etz Chaim Synagogue Chassidus Workshop featuring the Torah of Rav Moshe Weinberger with Rabbi Rabinowitz Monday @ 7:30 December 10 and December 17, 2018 Make a decision to live a life by design, not by default. Rabbi Moshe Weinberger, the rabbi of Aish Kodesh Synagogue and a Spiritual Advisor at Yeshiva University, is world famous for his clarity and passion as he shares the teachings of the Chassidic masters. Last year, Rabbi Weinberger taught a class at Citi Field which inspired hundreds. Thanks to the Orthodox Union, this class is available for everyone - even in Jacksonville. Over a two week period, we will watch together this life-changing class, while pausing at appropriate intervals to both check for clarity and to have discussions. The goal is to both be inspired and to figure out how to use this class to bring positive change to your life. Guest Speaker Rabbi Steven Weil on the Challenge of Jewish Day School Affordability December 11, 2018. Rabbi Steven Weil, the Senior Managing Director of the Orthodox Union and the son of German “Viehhaendler,” grew up on a cattle farm in Upstate New York. His love for learning began early, and as a teenager prevailed upon his parents to send him away to Yeshiva. He continued his education at Kerem B’Yavneh and Yeshiva University, concurrently completing his ordination at the Rabbeinu Yitzchak Elchanan Theological Seminary and a Master’s in Business Administration from NYU’s Stern School of Business. Rabbi Weil began his career teaching, and then began pulpit work; first at the Young Israel of Oak Park, Michigan and then at Beth Jacob Congregation in Beverly Hills, California. Rabbi Weil has served internationally as scholar-in-residence on land and sea and is a passionate advocate for Israel and Jewish education. Rabbi Weil resides in New Jersey with his wife and seven children. Scholars in Residence Nili Couzens December 14-15, 2018 Nili Couzens is a JWRP Trip Leader and a popular Jewish Educator. She is a sought-after motivational speaker and has spoken on tours across the U.S., Israel, Greece, South Africa, and Central America. Nili has been involved in women’s Jewish education and community leadership for over 20 years. She is the Founding Director of Jewish Life Seminars, a Jewish educational organization in Philadelphia and has recently moved to Israel with her husband and children.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
Dec. 7-9: Annual Marilyn and Louis Safer Shabbaton By Jacksonville Jewish Center
The annual Marilyn and Louis Safer Shabbaton will take place on December 7 through December 9. This year’s Scholar-In-Residence is Rabbi Dr. Analia Bortz, the first female rabbi in South America who completed her rabbinical ordination in Jerusalem. She is also a medical doctor who served in several hospitals and clinics around the world. As a bioethicist, Rabbi Analia is founder of several international initiatives, and is active in a wide variety of physical and mental health organizations. She is also an author of many publications, including The Voice of Silence: A Rabbi’s Journey into a Trappist Monastery. She will be speaking throughout the weekend on a variety of subjects such as “Ima on the Bima”, “The Many Flickering Lights of the Festival of Lights”, and “Bioethics: When Technology Becomes a Blessing and a Curse” (genetic engineering, cloning, organ transplantation, and the medical use of cannabis). Meal reservations are now closed, but speaking events are always open; details can be found by visiting www.JJCJax.org under “Adult Education” or by calling the Jacksonville Jewish Center at 292-1000. All events, except for some pre-event meals (Friday evening dinner
Rabbi Bortz
and Sunday brunch), are free and open to the public, thanks to a very generous donation by the Safer family in loving memory of their parents, Marilyn and Louis Safer. Please join us!
Jacksonville Jewish Center presents “The Evolving Earth” By Jacksonville Jewish Center
On Sunday, January 6, at 10:00 am, the Jacksonville Jewish Center is pleased to bring back visiting Professor Stephen R. Cantor. Dr. Cantor is a teaching lecturer in physical science at Plymouth State University, and has been a popular speaker for many years at the Center. The interactive-style learning session will be preceded by a light breakfast at 9:30, compliments of the Adult Education department. Professor Cantor will present and discuss The Evolv-
ing Earth. In this lecture, we will discuss the scientific fact that nothing about the earth is fixed, permanent, or unchanging. A glance of the map of the world suggests that at some time in the past the continents may have been joined together in one or two supercontinents. We also plan to talk about the rise and fall of the dinosaurs, Neanderthals, and, the evolution of the human species. Additionally, we will discuss a rabbinical interpretation that there is no biblical problem with human looking-creatures, such as the Neanderthals, predat-
ing Adam. This program is open to the public. Please plan to join us!
We have moved! Come visit us at our new address. 9965 - 24 San Jose Blvd. By Carrabba’s
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
JO IN U S FO R AN O P E N H O U SE
Ponte Vedra Beach Campus Fri., Jan. 11, 9-11 a.m.
Whitehurst Campus Tue., Jan. 15, 9-11 a.m.
Bartram Campus Thu., Jan. 17, 9-11 a.m.
Explore a World of Opportunities Bolles Life includes a superior curriculum and the greatest variety of high-quality educational offerings in Northeast Florida for grades Pre-K to 12. Extraordinary opportunities and grand discoveries await you in our vibrant, global community. Join us for an Open House to experience a day in the life of our students. We encourage you to see
for yourself how our high-caliber teachers engage students in exciting, active and challenging learning. Try Bolles Life for a day and you might not want to leave! Discover the possibilities at Bolles. To find an upcoming Open House, please visit www.Bolles.org or call (904) 256-5030.
San Jose Campus Fri., Dec. 7, 8 a.m. Fri., Jan. 18, 8 a.m.
Four Unique Campuses Ponte Vedra Beach Pre-K–5 Whitehurst Pre-K–5 Bartram 6–8 San Jose 9–12 Day school Pre-K through 12 and Boarding for Grades 9–12 with 5- and 7-day options.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
Making a better world takes the right ingredients. This Chanukah, while you’re frying up the latkes, serve something that will make it an even happier holiday for the whole family — especially your global family. Everything you need is within reach. And the recipe is simple. Pour in a heaping mixture of nurturing and strengthening Jewish life. Add helping the vulnerable. Inspiring the young. And safeguarding our people. All these ingredients are automatically folded in together through your gift to Jewish Federation of Anytown. So, please measure generously. Make it a truly happier Chanukah for your entire family. Give today.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2018
The lights of Hanukkah. we remember the true meaning of Hanukkah: the triumph of faith and courage over all adversity. As you celebrate the miracles of the season with family and friends, may peace and fulfillment find you during this Festival of Lights and all year long.
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Jewish Federation of Jacksonville, Jewish National Fund, & JCA present
For The Love Of Israel A Partnership Journey To Israel June 11 – 20, 2019 This 10-day experience includes: • Incredible hotels in Tel Aviv, the Negev, Jerusalem and the North • The tastes, sounds and vibrancy of Tel Aviv • Bedoin experience • Jeep rides at the Ramon Crater in the Negev • Shabbat in Jerusalem • Yad Vashem • Massada and the Dead Sea • Old City of Jerusalem • Golan Heights • Safed • Stargazing • Wineries • Seeing first-hand the work of Federation and JNF A $500 per person refundable deposit will secure a space for you on this journey. Make checks payable to the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. For further information, contact Alan Margolies at 904 448 5000 ext 1207 or at alanm@jewishjacksonville.org
THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF JACKSONVILLE PRESENTS:
A Night Out with Federation February 7, 2019 6 p.m. Special Reception 7 p.m. Event Start Jacksonville Marriott Featuring the music of BeatleBeat Plated dessert and open bar General Admission: $30 Co-chairs Daniel Miller, Jeanine Rogozinski & Haley Trager *Generously sponsored by: GrayRobinson, Attorneys at Law Ansbacher & Schneider, P.A. Dr. Chaim & Jeanine Rogozinski The Jaffe Group at Morgan Stanley Wells Fargo - The Private Bank *As of 11.28.18
A minimum gift of $36 to the 2019 Federation Annual Campaign is required to attend.