SHINING IN ST. LOUIS
NEW AGE KOSHER FOOD FEST Chabad puts on feast for the senses with the creations of renowned Atlanta chef Page 8
JCA basketball team comes close to taking bronze at JCC games Page 10
ISRAELI TEENS IN JAX
P2G teens come to Jacksonville for a pair of memorable weeks during the summer Page 17 A publication of
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River Garden earns Fans come out for Jewish community fun with its eighth straight award for excellence the Suns day in its long-term care
Etz Chaim Rabbi Yaakov Fisch and family with More than 115 fans came out to the event CEO Marty Goetz, Foundation Board President Local teens with their Israeli counterparts and were recognized on the video board taking in their first American baseball game Suns’ mascot ‘Southpaw’ before the game Jeanine Rogozinski and Home Board President Marsha Pollock receive an unprecedented ers at the first-ever Jewish Community Fun put on this event, including Jewish Family BY ARIEL FRECHTMAN eighth consecutive Gold Star Award from state Jewish Federation of Jacksonville with the Suns Day. In addition to a post& Community Services, the Jewish ComSenator Aaron Bean / / Photo by Larry Tallis game base run and visits from Star Wars munity Foundation of Northeast Florida, arielf@jewishjacksonville.org
BY SKIP WILLBACH
River Garden Senior Services
In late July, River Garden Hebrew Home and the Wolfson Health & Aging Center received a very special honor from the state of Florida for an unprecedented eighth time. Florida Senator Aaron Bean, representing the fourth district (covering all of Nassau and a large portion of Duval Counties), who is also Chair of the Florida Senate Committee on Health Policy, visited the River Garden campus to present the agency with the Governor’s Gold Seal Award for Excellence in Long-Term Care, which it has received every year since 2009. Senator Bean presented the award to Marsha Pollock, President of the River Garden Home board, while Audrey Moran, Senior VP for Social Responsibility and Community Advocacy for Baptist Health greeted attendees on behalf of Baptist Health. The event took place in River Garden’s Cohen Auditorium and a reception immediately followed. Of the more than 680 nursing homes in the Sunshine State, River Garden is the only freestanding nursing home in the state to earn the award eight consecutive terms. The Gold Seal
8505 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32217
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Fun was had by all Sunday, July 31st, when more than 115 members of the Jacksonville Jewish community gathered to watch the Suns take on the Biloxi Shuck-
characters throughout the evening, Etz Chaim Synagogue’s Rabbi Fisch opened the game with a very special ceremonial first pitch. A big thank you goes out to all those synagogues and agencies who partnered with Federation and the Suns to
the Jewish Community Alliance and River Garden Senior Services in addition to Beth El – The Beaches Synagogue, Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple), The Jacksonville Jewish Center and Etz Chaim Synagogue.
Dan Nichols and Friday Night Live band to kickoff weekend of song and celebration at the Temple By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
Dan Nichols is one of the most dynamic, influential and beloved Jewish musicians in North America. His melodies have become an integral part of the spiritual and liturgical experience of countless Jewish communities. On Friday, Sept. 16th at 7 p.m., Nichols will lead Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) in worship during Shabbat services. At that time, he will be joined by the Temple’s ‘Friday Night Live’ adult band and ‘The Jew Crew’ teen band. The Sabbath celebration will be just the beginning of a weekend of song that will be capped off with a special communitywide concert, scheduled for Sunday, the 18th at 12:30 p.m., also at the Temple. This concert will be in support of the Federation’s annual campaign and serve as its kickoff event. “Dan and I go back more than 20
years,” explained Rabbi Matt Cohen, Associate Rabbi at The Temple. “I met him during my first summer at GUCI (Goldman Union Camp Institute) in Zionsville, Ind., and he preceded me as the camp song leader. When I had the opportunity to meet him, I immediately realized why he was so beloved because Dan has a neshama (soul),” Rabbi Cohen added. “His music, his words, his being are authentic and it is what I love about his music because he Renowned musician Dan Nichols will spend inspires us to ignite our souls.” In addition to leading worship with a weekend in Jacksonville, Sept. 16 - 18th Friday Night Live Band, Nichols will also a weekend in Northeast Florida. “This will lead Torah Study on Shabbat morning, be my first visit to Jacksonville and I’m beginning at 9 a.m., in advance of Sunday’s looking forward to seeing your fair city big concert. firsthand. More importantly, I’m interested “I am delighted to be joining Conin meeting you and experiencing how you gregation Ahavath Chesed and the entire create a holy community that sustains Jacksonville Jewish community for study, vibrant Jewish life,” he added. singing and celebration,” Nichols expressed of his excitement about spending See DAN NICHOLS, p. 14
Federation employee takes part in an international Partnership2Gether program By Jewish Federation of Jacksonville
During the past eight months, Federation Communications Director, Matt Franzblau has been taking part in a unique Partnership2Gether (P2G) program called ‘Leadership2Gether’, where Jewish young professionals from around the southeast are matched up with peers in Jacksonville’s sister region in Hadera-Eiron in Israel to write and respond to assignments and then share their answers with each other from across the globe. The assignments, which were developed by Hamidrasha at Oranim College in Israel, are provided on roughly a monthly basis with opportunities for further dialogue via e-mail and Skype. The goal of the curricu-
lum is to support this inaugural cohort in exploring their Jewish identity, while creating meaningful Israeli/Diaspora conversations, and gaining new perspectives on their role in the Jewish world. This fall, program participants will meet in person for the first time during a weekend retreat in Tennessee. Shelly Levi “The program has been pretty interesting thus far,” Franzblau explained. “It really gives you a unique perspective and opportunity to see into certain aspects of an Israeli’s life that you wouldn’t otherwise have during an
See P2G PROGRAM, p. 18
Matt Franzblau
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opinion and cartoons JJN’s Rabbinically Speaking Wishful Thinking This time of Year BY RABBI NOCHUM KURINSKY Chabad at the Beaches
It’s that time of the year again. The High Holy Days are upon us and we might as well face the passing of another year. And you might wonder to yourself: What do I have to show for this year? Is it a ‘write-off ’, or did I achieve my stated goals? What will I wish for in the coming year? Is it a repeat of last year’s wishes? It must be exasperating to discover that, in fact, this year’s wish list is really no different from last year’s, or the year before-or the year before that! Each year the various media outlets poll our hopes and dreams in advance of the secular New Year. Invariably it goes something like this: 1. World peace 2. Security 3. Success (both financial and with relationshipswe call it ‘Nachas’). Every year! Shouldn’t it change? Surely, if last year’s wishes were fulfilled we should have new ones for the New Year, and if they weren’t fulfilled, why ask again? So I wonder if maybe we’re aiming too high. I wonder if the lesson of the past year is to get more realistic and start aiming for something more within reach, something that might actually happen in the next year. A little less idealism and a little more realism-doesn’t sound like a very inspiring year.
The truth is that I’m putting the cart before the horse, because ‘Rosh’ Hashanah does not translate as ‘new’ year, and the date is not simply arbitrary (set to give us a fresh start); it marks an actual development. Literally translated, Rosh Hashanah means ‘head’ of the year; this is the day that G-d renders judgement of our actions, thereby setting the course of the coming year. In the Jewish New Year, the analogy is clear: just as the head is the origin of all vitality in the entire body-the brain instructs the movements of the body-so too it is with Rosh Hashanah. In it- and through it-is decreed the energy, vitality and blessing of the next twelve months. These are indeed solemn days, moments in time that will affect you long after they are gone; our conduct has far reaching consequences. And so I realize that I’ve been asking the wrong questions. Rather than toning down my expectations of G-d and how events may ‘play’ out, I should be asking myself, ‘what will I do’ to see these lofty wishes realized? Rather than lowering your wishes, elevate your conduct. The meditation of the past year is phrased thus: has my life and behaviour of the last 12 months been consistent with the wishes and hopes that I express over this solemn period? Have I been in touch with my inner, ideal, self and lived another day to
areas of life: the earnest regret of return or repentance if you prefer, expressing the desire to be truer to oneself; coming closer to G-d through prayer, and an increased awareness of one’s responsibility towards others-the ideal of tzedaka. By all means, make a wish. Then make it come true. Shana Tova! Rabbi Nochum Kurinsky and his wife Leah are co-directors of Chabad at the Beaches’ Aaron and Blanche Center for Jewish Life in Ponte Vedra Beach.
Rabbinically speaking is a monthly column written by clergy members in the Jacksonville Jewish community. If you are a Rabbi, hazzan or religious leader in NE Florida and would like to contribute your inspirational thoughts for a monthly column, please e-mail jjn@jewishjacksonville.org with your name, organization, congregation and which month you are interested in writing for and what topic, specifically you would like to write about.
RABBINICALLY SPEAKING reach those goals, or have I been disconnected from myself, living a surreal existence chasing the immediate opportunity and instant gratification? While it may seem farfetched that our Rosh Hashanah resolutions will impact on history, our Sages teach us, in one of the most moving High Holiday prayers, that ‘repentance, prayer, and tzedakah avert the evil decree’. Indeed, when considering which actions we should take on to enable us to realize our wishes, our focus should be in these three
The Jewish New Year and the High Holy Days BY FRED RASKIND Temple Bet Yam
The Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, falls on Monday, October 3rd this year. Locally and worldwide, Jews mark the start of the year 5777 on the Hebrew calendar, a hybrid solar-lunar calendar with fixed Hebrew dates, but dates that shift on the secular calendar. So why a New Year in the Fall? Originally it was tied to the upcoming agricultural harvest, and what better time for ancient peoples dependent on a good crop to pray and celebrate? Leviticus 23:24 reads: ‘In the seventh month, in the first day of the month, shall be a solemn rest unto you, a memorial proclaimed with the blast of horns, a holy convocation.’ Israelites then (and now) cease work and bring an offering to God. Today, Rosh Hashanah is a time to celebrate with family and friends the beginning of a new life opportunity, the chance to improve the quality of our religious and spiritual self through prayer, charity, and self-introspection, chesh-
Rabbi Fred Raskind from Temple Bet Yam of St. Augustine
bon ha-nefesh. The purpose is to literally take stock of our failings and identify ways to do better in the coming year. This is an act between the individual and G-d in the context of the congregation. That is why most of the prayers are in the plural: We have sinned, We ask for atonement, and We seek return / reconciliation. We celebrate with festive meals, sending New Year greeting cards, and often
wearing a new outfit as Rosh Hashana is serious, but not solemn. Yom Kippur (Oct. 12th) is solemn. Again, Leviticus 23:27-‘On the tenth day of this seventh month is the Day of Atonement; there shall be a holy convocation unto you, and ye shall afflict your souls; … It shall be unto you a Sabbath of solemn rest.’ All year at worship and in private devotion we ask for forgiveness—from G-d, from others, and even from ourselves. But Yom Kippur is a 24-hour ‘marathon’ of ritual, prayer, Torah readings, fasting, religious music and sermons to help us focus in depth on atonement, renewal and self-change; a ‘retreat’, so to speak. And we pray not just for the Jewish people, but for all peoples too. Rabbi Fred Raskind was born and educated in Boston. He graduated from Boston University and then attended Columbia University where he studied philosophy and comparative religion. He was ordained at Hebrew Union College, New York and has served pulpits in South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Florida.
Dry Bones Cartoons by Yaakov Kirschen
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community news
Anne Frank exhibit returns to Jacksonville
JJN Advertising Directory At the Jacksonville Jewish News, our advertisers are precious to us. It is with their support that the Jacksonville Jewish community has a newspaper. Advertising revenue also offsets the cost of production, so Federation dollars can be dedicated to helping Jews locally and overseas. Please continue to live generously and support our advertisers:
BY ARLENE WOLFSON
Museum of Science & History
Jacksonville’s Museum of Science & History (MOSH) will host an international traveling exhibit titled ‘Anne Frank: A History for Today’, which is curated by the United States’ Anne Frank Center. The exhibit will be in display Jan. 12th – Feb. 12th and portrays the moving story ofAnne Frank, a young, courageous Jewish girl who gained international fame after the posthumous publication of her diary, which was written while she and her family were in hiding during World War II. Using excerpts from her diary, along with stories and images of her family and those who hid with her, visitors are provided with an immersive opportunity to experience Frank’s buoyant symbolism for life amidst an era of persecution. The true story of the young Anne Frank serves as a powerful symbol and a role model for today, as her insights and courage continue to inspire students, educators and citizens more than 60 years after her diary was first published. The exhibit is designed to underscore the dangers of intolerance, anti-Semitism, racism and discrimination, and to inspire the next generation to build a world based on equal rights and
mutual respect. Anne Frank exhibitions from the Anne Frank Center have traveled throughout the country since 1985, and continue to be in high demand in cities across the U.S and Europe. In fact, this exhibition was presented in Jacksonville in 1993 with an attendance of 35,000 during the course of four weeks. Its broad appeal and continued relevance in the 21st century serves as the catalyst for its return to Jacksonville and for a new generation to view and experience it. ‘Anne Frank: A History for Today’ will be presented under a larger community initiative, Voices of Hope, guided by MOSH, which will incorporate coordinated programs with leading organizations throughout the Jacksonville area. The Duval and Clay County Public Schools, Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, Ritz Theater and Museum, all four local universities, OneJax, Jacksonville Human Rights Commission, Jewish Community Alliance, WJCT and others will present programs to connect Anne Frank’s life to the real challenges of discrimination and biases we face today. Additionally, the Museum will provide educational programming to include lectures, films and related presentations to stimulate conversation on the need for the acceptance of diversity.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • Due to its importance, admission will be free throughout the length of the Anne Frank exhibition so everyone can have access and learn from the lessons of her life. Those interested in becoming a docent (training is required) or to volunteer in another capacity, can go to themosh.org/support-us/volunteer to register. For questions, call Arlene Wolfson at 904-396-7062, ext. 214. Sponsors to date include Florida Blue (Liberators level), Interline Brands, The Delores Barr Weaver Fund (Bridge builders level), SteinMart/Jay and Deanie Stein Foundation Trust, DuBow Family Foundation, Spark Inc., Times Union Media (Peacemakers), PGA TOUR, Community Foundation of Northeast Florida (Heroes) and Bestbet, The Main Street America Group, Beaver Street Foundation, Inc., WJCT Ellipse, WJXT Channel 4 (Friends).
Handling a Jewish divorce in today’s modern secular society
BY LAWRENCE DATZ datzlaw.net
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, Jews who marry are less likely to divorce than the current Florida average for all divorces. Still, divorces seem to be fairly common in both Jewish and interfaith marriages. Although these divorces are largely like any other, some observances of Jewish law, culture and tradition can collide with secular society and its law. Perhaps the first thing that comes to mind when Jews divorce is a religious divorce, symbolized by a ‘get’ or ‘gett’. A get is a contract given by a husband to his wife terminating their earlier contract of marriage, or katubah. While a get does not affect a husband’s remarriage, it can impede his wife’s ability to remarry. As one might expect, obtaining a get has varying significance among the Orthodox, Conservative and Reform movements of Judaism. Nevertheless, since a get holds greater significance for a wife, she undoubtedly would like some assurance that her husband will cooperate in obtaining one – especially because, in some extreme cases, a husband’s lack of cooperation may be used as a form of extortion against her. So what happens to matters of religious significance like this in Florida dissolution of marriage actions? Can one be ordered to cooperate with obtaining a get? In an interfaith marriage, can one
be ordered to raise children in a particular religion? And what about a divorcing spouse being ordered to pay for tuition for a religious school? In Florida, the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and its religious companion provision in the Florida Constitution not only ensures freedom of religion, but also separates ‘church and state’. This means the government (the judicial branch in this context) cannot compel someone to adhere to a religious practice, but may prohibit a particular religious observance if it is ‘harmful to the child’. This means courts cannot compel someone to cooperate in obtaining a get, much less enforce agreements to raise a child in a particular religion. However, courts do have the authority to determine legal issues, such as timesharing plans for children and payment of certain expenses as an incident of child support. For example, a court may order timesharing consistent with religious observances such as for Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Pesach. If the parties enrolled their child in a religious school for secular and non-secular education, the court could order continued enrollment in that school and payment of its costs. In divorce, religious freedom can be a proverbial ‘double-edged sword’. On the one hand, we are guaranteed the right to practice the religion of our choice, a compelling reason many of our ancestors immigrated to this country. That same religious freedom, however, is the reason why our courts are prohibited from issuing orders endorsing the observance of a specific religion. If religious observance is important to someone who is divorcing, he or she should ask an attorney about what can be accomplished with an agreement and what a court can and cannot order. Lawrence Datz is a partner at Datz & Datz, P.A., with more than 30 years of family law experience. A lifelong member of the Jacksonville Jewish Center, he is Board Certified in Marital and Family Law and a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
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September 2016 - Av/Elul 5776
what's inside Adult Education................ p. 19 Business Directory........... p. 20 Chabad News......................p. 8 Community News...................... .............................p. 4-7, 25-26 Education ................................. ...........................p. 9-10, 12-13 Federation News....................... .............................. p. 16-18, 27
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Foundation ..................... p. 23 JCA ...................................p. 21 JFCS ................................. p. 22 Lifecycles.......................... p. 20 Mensch of Month............ p. 11 Opinion & Cartoons............ P. 3 River Garden.....................p. 24 Synagogue News............14-15 Top Stories...........................p. 1
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
community news
CTeen Beaches Chapter to hold kick-off brunch followed by Pokemon Go games gether to learning and give back to their communities. CTeen teaches teens critical leadership skills, putting power in the hands of the teens themselves. Through brainstorming, delegating, and executing, teens create and implement community service initiatives, charity fundraisers, in addition to local and national trips. Rabbi Eli Wilansky, the club’s director, saw that adults are sometimes irritated with teens, seeing them as ‘takers’ with nothing to offer until they grow up. Wilansky however, sees this outlook as the root of the problem, causing a vicious cycle. “How can anyone expect anything different when we refuse to give teens any responsi-
By Chabad at the Beaches
The Jacksonville Beaches Ponte Vedra chapter of CTeen is active and in full swing, and on Sunday, Sept. 18th at 9:45 a.m., it will hold its inaugural Kickoff event, featuring brunch and games. Games will include Gotta Catch All the Mitzvahs Scavenger Hunt, The Kabbalah and Torah of Pokemon Go. CTeen is a club for Jewish teens aimed at empowering youth to maximize their potential by offering programs to bring them to-
bility?” he asked. Rabbi Wilansky’s mentor, the Chabad Lubavitcher Rebbe, asserted that the relentless confusion and rebellion of the teenage years is the soul’s dissatisfaction with the status quo. “It is the fire of the soul that refuses to conform,” the Lubavitcher Rebbe explained. “It wants to change the world and is frustrated with not knowing how.” Rabbi Eli leads a CTeen chapter that harnesses this incredible potential and empowers its members to make significant changes and choices in their own lives, as well as in the community, and the result is a. CTeen group for teens, by teen because as Rabbi Wilansky
best sums it up, “We’re watching the development of the leaders of tomorrow.” The kickoff brunch will be held at the Aaron and Blanche Scharf Chabad Center at the Beaches (521 A1A N., Ponte Vedra) and parents are welcomed to attend. CTeen is a worldwide club aimed at engaging Jewish teenagers in Jewish practice and identity. The purpose of this all-new program is to provide a deeper and more advanced Jewish education to seventh through ninth graders and act as part of their Bar/Bat Mitzvah training, as well as a monthly get-together for young teens.
Jewish Java finds permanent home Adult ed events now in full swing at Jax Jewish at River Garden Senior Services BY ISABEL BALOTIN
Shalom Jacksonville Director shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org
Jewish Java has sure come a long way since Panera Bread, Let’s Nosh and Village Bread Café. Just by happenstance, Leslie Held, Jewish Life and Volunteer Coordinator at River Garden, came to one of the Java programs at Village Bread, where the attendance was so overwhelming that extra chairs had to be brought in to accommodate everyone. Seeing the need for more space for more people, Held said she would check with River Garden and ask if Shalom Jacksonville could hold its monthly Jewish Java programs there. As one of the Federation’s partner agencies, River Garden Senior Services responded with enthusiasm and in addition, generously offered to provide a delicious, complimentary bagel and lox breakfast and their Cohen Auditorium through October. Last month, River Garden Executive Director Martin Goetz
Executive Director Martin Goetz announces River Garden will be the permanent home for Shalom Jacksonville’s Jewish Java.
welcomed everyone and shared his appreciation of Federation’s generous financial support of River Garden Senior Services. During his talk, Goetz said that he and his staff were delighted to offer Sha-
lom Jacksonville’s Jewish Java a permanent home. This move will allow Java to ultimately expand its programming and provide more than enough space to invite locals to meet newcomers and reacquaint with old friends. River Garden’s gesture confirms that we are truly a cohesive and caring community, helping each other grow and thrive. Much appreciation goes out to August’s featured storytellers extraordinaire Rabbi Dov and Alina Kentof. Both, in their own way mesmerized the Java group of 60 with their personal and bubbe meise stories. The Sept. 7th program will feature Barbara Kiersh, genealogist, who will share lots of handouts and information to help you research your roots and on Oct. 5th, Stanley Greenfield, a participant in the ‘Volunteers for Israel’ program will talk about his experience in the program. Many more wonderful programs are planned and we invite everyone to join us no matter how long you have lived in Jacksonville.
Center
By Jacksonville Jewish Center
Another busy year is beginning for the Adult Education department at the Jacksonville Jewish Center as ongoing classes such as Talmud, Foundations of Judaism, and Service Skills continue, while students are signing up for the upcoming beginner’s Hebrew classes which are offered both in-person and online webinar-style. Additionally, the book club, ShalOM meditation, Coffee and Torah study, and Yiddish Club continue to meet monthly. A celebration of the end of the very first year of the Chai Mitzvah program will take place at Shabbat services on Saturday, Sept. 24th. This is a national program created as a way to engage adults in a Jewish journey throughout their lives. Participants attend monthly study sessions, identify something Jewish that they want to learn, take on or deepen an existing Jewish ritual and engage in social action. Stay tuned for announcements regarding 2016-17 speakers, classes, annual Marilyn and Louis Safer Shabbaton, along with other exciting learning opportunities
Trope class with Hazzan Holzer or take advantage of the Center’s beautiful Adult Library, featuring a great selection of reference books as well as Jewish fiction, history, language, cultural and auditory materials. Why not make this the year to get involved in Jewish education? Learn something new, get to know some wonderful people, stretch your brain and become more comfortable with your Judaism. Classes are forming now, so please contact Lois Tompkins at LTompkins@jaxjewishcenter.org, or visit our official webpage for the most updated information at JJCJax.org and click on the ‘Education’ tab.
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Community news
Jacksonville Jewish Film Festival welcomes a new chair By Jewish Community Alliance
Incoming JCA Board Member Sunny Gettinger brings her love of film and event planning to head up the JCA’s 2016 biennial Jacksonville Jewish Film Festival. The five-day event, which has become a fall fixture in Jacksonville, runs from Nov. 13th – 17th and will feature Jewish-themed films from all over the world being screened in Jacksonville for the very first time. The event combines film showings with post-screening events and has routinely drawn
crowds in the hundreds from all across the city. Film festival chair Gettinger and her committee want the film festival to give people a new perspective and awareness of the vibrancy of the Jacksonville Jewish Community. “The festival offers an opportunity to bring new groups together to discuss issues that are important in our community,” Gettinger said. “Film helps bridge divides and provide context for discussion of real problems.” For more information on film titles and speakers as well as sponsorship opportunities, visit jcajax.org/filmfest.
The 2016 Jacksonville Jewish Film Festival official logo (Above) A capacity crowd is on hand to view a flick from the 2014 Film Festival, held at the Jewish Community Alliance (Left)
Lunch and Learns to provide nourishment for the Body and the Soul this fall BY KEN JACOBS
Lunch and Learn Host
For the fourth year in a row, Lunch and Learns will provide an opportunity during the hustle and bustle of our hectic workdays to pause and reflect on how to bring meaning to our lives. Each month, Etz Chaim Education Director Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum visits with employees and professionals to conduct these engaging lunch programs at noon, alternating between Downtown and Mandarin office locations. Whether discussing the meaning of an upcoming holiday, everyday life issues, or personal growth, Rabbi Feigenbaum facilitates interactive discussions with enthusiasm and passion. In addition to providing a delicious
Rabbi Feigenbaum conveys a point to Lunch and Learn participants
kosher lunch free of charge, these monthly sessions are uplifting and informative. As Lunch and Learn participant Mike Abel puts it, “I always enjoy the Lunch and Learn with Rabbi Feigenbaum, because not only does he always
offer an interesting, insightful and relevant lesson, but it has also been most enjoyable to meet and get acquainted with other Jewish colleagues who work downtown and attend the classes.” This year’s Lunch and Learns
Both the Downtown and Mandarin sessions garner large turnouts
resume Downtown Sept. 16th at the law offices of GrayRobinson, P.A., and in Mandarin Sept. 21st at the JCA. These sessions are open to men and women of all denominations and backgrounds. We are grateful for the time that
Rabbi Feigenbaum devotes each month to provide a delightful oasis of meaning and inspiration in our daily lives. For further information, please contact Rabbi Feigenbaum at rabbifeigenbaum@ etzchaim.org.
Jax Jewish Singles to hit up the ‘finn Groups for Jewish meditation and spirituality can now be found throughout Jacksonville By Jax Jewish Singles
Join the Jax Jewish Singles this month where you can eat, drink and be lively at Blackfinn Ameripub, a lively restaurant and bar offering great American food. Contact Francine for details at 904-221-8061 or email her at francine.smith@comcast.net.
BY GAIL GREENFIELD
Jewish Meditation & Spirituality
Mindfulness and meditation are becoming an important part of health and wellness practices. However, many people are not aware that meditative practices have been an integral part of Judaism dating back to the time of the first temple in Jerusalem. There have been several Jewish meditation and spirituality groups in Jacksonville that meet weekly, and new ones will either start up or resume in September. Participants have found meditation useful in increasing feelings of peace and well-being which is so needed in this stressful world. Groups meet for an hour and begin with a discussion related to Jewish spirituality followed by a period of meditation. Below are listed the places, days, times and contact person for each group. The Coves resumes Monday, Sept. 12th at 1 p.m. Contact Leslie Held at lheld@rivergarden. org or at 904-886-8429. Beth El The Beaches Synagogue resumes Wednesday, Sept. 14th at 11:45 a.m. Contact Gail Greenfield at
gailsgreenfield@hotmail.com or at 904-534-7381. Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) sessions are held Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. Contact Judith Leibowitz at judithleibowitz@ comcast.net or via 904-3293446 in addition to Carl Kutlin at carlinweho@gmail.com or at 323-304-9287. Nocotee resumes Monday, Sept. 19th at 10:45 a.m. and will meet the first and third Monday of each month. Contact Sheila Lieberman at smlieb@ mac.com for more information. Julington Creek resumes Monday, September 12th and meets every Monday night at 7:30 p.m. Contact Rebetzin Dini Sharfstein at 904-701-4422.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
community news
Jacksonville delegates attend Hadassah’s national convention BY HELEN HILL
Jacksonville Hadassah
A number of local Hadassah members were proud to represent Northeast Florida, when they attended the 98th Hadassah National Convention in Atlanta, earlier this summer. Aviva Kaplan, Jacksonville Chapter President, Lin Pomerantz, Organizational VP for the Florida Central Region, Liat Walker, PRAZE Vice President for the Jacksonville Chapter, along with first-time attendee Gail Greenfield all made the trip north on I-75 in July and a highlight of the convention included learning about the ground-breaking research at the Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO). This is because the use of stem-cell therapies and other cutting-edge technology is giving hope to
Jacksonville’s delegation at the 98th Hadassah National Convention
Continued from pg. 1
By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
soundness and stability as well as an excellent record with the state Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. The Hebrew Home also had to have no ‘conditional’ ratings or appearances on the Nursing Home Watch List within 30 months of applying for the award, an evidence of community involvement, along with a stable workforce and some of the ‘best practices’ in elder care.
Jake Mendelson, son of Robin and Brian of Jacksonville, was invited to the U23 National Team Selection Camp this summer and has been named to represent the United States at the World Rowing Championships as coxswain for the Men’s Eight. From a group River Garden acknowledges that this award would not be pos- of 32 rowers and four coxswains, sible were it not for the outstand- Mendelson was the one coxswain ing efforts and successes of every accompanied by 12 rowers to make the team from this selection camp member of its team, from envihosted in New Hampshire. The ronmental and dining services to U23 team trained throughout the plant operations, and of course the summer in preparation to race at the
countless nurses, therapists, volunteers, and everyone involved in the day-to-day, 24/7/365 operation that is the Hebrew Home. River Garden.
Shofar Factory Presentation to be held at Fleet Landing world championships Aug. 21-28 in Rotterdam. “This talented group of athletes represents the future of USA rowing at the elite level,” Mendelson said. “Many of these men will go on to pursue Olympic dreams after this summer, and making the Under 23 team is a great step toward this,” he added of his accomplishment. “This level of competition shows national speed on the collegiate level, with the team being composed of recent grads or current students at the country’s top schools and the USA
By Chabad at the Beaches
In preparation for the Jewish New Year, seniors and residents will watch and learn how a Shofar (Ram’s Horn blown on the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah) is crafted at Chabad Beaches’ “Shofar Factory”. When the horns are complete, participants will learn how to perform the traditional sequence of notes sounded in synagogues around the world on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Chabad’s Shofar Factory will be held Monday, Sept. 12th at 2:30 p.m. at the Fleet Landing Retirement community, located at 1 Fleet Landing Blvd. oulevard, Atlantic Beach, FL. 32233. The event is free and open to the entire community. For those not familiar, the Shofar is the central symbol of Rosh Hashanah and the horn is sounded as part of the Rosh Hashanah service to indicate the sovereignty of the Divine and to call people to repentance. Indeed, hearing it sounded is the only biblical commandment associated with the holiday. The shofar is one of the most ancient instruments in the world, and is associated with many cardinal events in Jewish history, such as Abraham’s binding of Isaac and the receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai. The Shofar Factory is one of many Chabad Living Legacy programs, which links Jewish learning to Jewish practice through a series of creative, hands-on experiences. “Studies have shown that people absorb more when they are actively en-
tive ‘Defining Zionism in the 21st Century’ series. The delegates will be describing their experiences at the convention at Hadassah’s KickOff Luncheon, scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 27th, where they’ll share the podium with members Susan Board, Jeanine Rogozinski and Gail Greenfield, who will be giving a personal account of their recent visits to the Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem. Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, is a volunteer organization that inspires a passion for and commitment to its partnership with the land and people of Israel, enhancing the health of people worldwide through its support of medical care and research at the Hadassah Medical Organization in Jerusalem.
Mendelson Represents United States at World Rowing Championships
River Garden 8th Award for Excellence in LongTerm Care was created in 2002 by the Florida State Legislature to recognize Florida’s premier quality nursing homes that have exceptionally high standards and display excellence in the quality of care delivered to their residents. Prior to receiving the award, a nursing facility must undergo a rigorous examination to ensure strict regulatory compliance and the provision of enhanced programming and services. In addition, a site visit is made by representatives of the Governor’s Panel on Excellence in LongTerm Care. In order to receive the Governor’s Gold Seal Award, River Garden had to demonstrate the following. High quality care ranking among all nursing homes in the region, in addition to financial
millions of people afflicted with ALS, MS, macular degeneration, melanoma and diabetes. Hearing Dalia Itzik, who was Israel’s first woman Speaker of the Knesset, was also another high point for the Jacksonville delegation as she discussed shifts in women’s leadership at the Knesset. During the convention, the women also learned about gender equity in medical research and became even more motivated to advocate for women’s health issues, which is one of the platform priorities of Jacksonville Hadassah. Other speakers at the convention included Natan Barak, who founded the company that created the Iron Dome and control system, in addition to Caroline Glick, Deputy Managing Editor of the Jerusalem Post, who led a live session of Hadassah’s provoca-
gaged in the educational process, than simply listening to a lecture,” said Rabbi Nochum Kurinsky, Executive Director and spiritual leader at Chabad Beaches.”This is why Chabad has instituted Living Legacy workshops, which offer a multi-sensory approach to Jewish learning because our goal is to encourage Jewish kids and their families to enjoy and appreciate Judaism by offering fun and positive educational experiences.” For information or to reserve a space on the factory line, call Rabbi Eli Wilansky at 904-5359193 or email Eli@ChabadBeaches.com.
Jake Mendelson
team looks forward to racing for gold and bringing home some hardware from The Netherlands this summer.” This will be the third time that Mendelson has represented the United States in international competition as he served as coxswain with the 2015 Senior National Team in the coxed pair (2+), and as a member of the 2012 Junior National Team in the coxed four (4+). He is a 2016 graduate from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
chabad news
Ongoing & Upcoming Groundbreaking for Southside Chabad’s new center for Chabad events Jewish life set for Sept. 18th Mandarin Headquarters
Daily Chassidic Philosophy Weekday Mornings, Monday - Friday 6:40 a.m., and Sundays at 8:15 a.m. with instructor: Rabbi Yossie Kahanov. Insights on the Torah Portion Shabbos Mornings at 8:30 a.m. with instructor Rabbi Mendy Browd. Exploring The Talmud Tuesday Evenings, after Maariv with Instructor Rabbi Mendy Browd. Women’s Study Group Tuesday Evenings at 7:30 p.m. with instructor Rebbetzin Rivkie Kahanov Shabbos Live Join us for a memorable Shabbat dinner and monthly oneg, Sept. 30th. This is free and open to all, so experience the feeling of holiness that only Shabbat can bring with great food, insightful discussion, Chassidic melodies and a warm ‘Heimish’ atmosphere. Call 904262-6641 for more information or to reserve a spot.
Chabad of Clay County
Shabbat Dinner Upcoming Community Friday night (Shabbat) dinner – Sept. 9th at 7 p.m.
Chabad of Southside
Hebrew School CHS is for you! Families of all backgrounds feel comfortable and welcome as our school enjoys a well-earned reputation as a trendsetter in creative Jewish education for children ages five to 13. School is held Sundays from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Visit SouthsideChabad. com for more info.
By Southside Chabad
Chabad-Lubavitch of Southside will hold a special ground-breaking ceremony for its new center for Jewish Life, Sunday, Sept. 18th at 1:30 p.m. The 10,000 sq. ft. structure will be built at 11271 Alumni Way and will be equipped with a Sanctuary, student lounge, library, and a full-featured kosher kitchen for Shabbat and holiday meals, along
with a kosher café, a fellowship hall, activity room, and a reggio inspired preschool. The ceremony will mark the beginning of construction of the new facility which will no doubt stand as a beacon of pride to for the Jewish community in Northeast Florida in the future. Complimentary refreshments and special activities for children will also be available at the event.
The 10,000 sq. ft. space will be equipped with a sanctuary, student lounge, library, and a full-featured kosher kitchen among other amenities
Camp Gan Israel brings summer Jewish fun for everyone By Chabad Lubavitch of NE Fla
Campers at Camp Gan Israel at the local Chabads in Northeast Florida enjoyed a full week of Jewish themed activities, trips and Jewish pride. Each day kids explored another mitzvah such as Ahavat Yisroel-Friendship Day, Tzedaka-Giving Day and Shabbat Party Day. From painting, swimming, mad science, bowling, water park sliding, and lots of singing, campers had the experience of a lifetime and a summer to remember. Individual camps were held at Southside, S. Johns and Mandarin Campers practice their baking skills locations.
Kids took part in in games both inside and out during Camp Gan Israel
International Kosher Food Festival to feature the creations of a renowned Atlanta chef By Chabad at the Beaches
Chabad at the Beaches is Proud to Present a new age Kosher Food Festival, Sunday, Sept. 11th, from 12:00 – 3 p.m. at The Ponte Vedra Cultural Center (50 Executive Way). The fourth annual edition of this popular franchise will feature trendy, not to mention healthy, new Chabad of S. Johns age cuisine, along with old-time JKC Family Fun Day Jewish favorites, from eight select Sunday, Sept. 18th at 3:30 p.m. The countries around the world, including Argentina, Morocco, Spain, Jewish Kids Club presents a High Holiday Family Fun Day including Germany, Japan, Colombia, Israel and the U.S. The festival will offer crafts, fun games, prizes and the and activities for kids incredible Shofar Factory. For more entertainment as well as adults, food samplings information check out JewishSJohn- from around the world (for a nomisCounty.com. nal fee), to-go meals, local honey and apple tastings, and preparations Torah and Tea for the upcoming Rosh Hashanah Jewish holidays, in addition inforMondays, Sept. 12th, and 19th at mation on the overall health and 7:30 p.m. Join together with Jewspiritual benefits of Kosher cuisine. ish women for inspiring Torah This year’s event will feature discussions, Jewish meditation, original culinary inspirations camaraderie, hot tea, and delicious the of Chef Masha, who was born in refreshments to replenish the the Colombia and is the executive Chef feminine Spirituali-Tea. For more and owner of FuegoMundo Restauinformation email: Dini@JewishS- rant in Atlanta. Her restaurant has JohnsCounty.com been a local favorite for seven years, and specializes in Latin-Fusion
cuisine from the countries of South and Central America, the Caribbean and Spain. It’s the only restaurant of its kind in the world with LatinHealthy-Gourmet and Certified Kosher cuisine, appealing to both meat-lovers and vegetarians, and has an exhibition wood-fire grill in the center of the restaurant. Chef Masha’s passion is to inject love into her ‘from-scratch kitchen’, with the most flavorful and healthy local ingredients possible, to create new and old time favorites, with many gluten and dairy-free options as well as grass fed beef, organic, Latin, Mediterranean, vegan-friendly and
kid-friendly selections. Because the food festival will be held on such a somber anniversary in our nation’s history, a very special 9/11 Memorial wall will be on display and a ceremony with local firefighters and police officers in attendance will be held along with a reading of the victims’ names. This ceremony will remember and memorialize the heroes that lost their lives on that fateful day and will take place from 12 – 12:30 p.m., prior to the opening of the actual event. The festival is open to the public with a $3 per person cost for admission, however a free admis-
sion ticket will be offered to those purchasing more than two tickets in advance at KosherFoodFest. com. The event will also offer a free raffle as well as many surprises, prizes and entertainment. Through sponsorship opportunities, the new age Kosher Food Festival is an excellent and cost-effective way to gain broad exposure throughout the Ponte Vedra and greater Beaches Jewish community, as around 500 attendees are expected. Please visit chabadbeaches.com, or contact Rabbi Nochum Kurinsky in the Chabad at the Beaches’ business office at 904-543-9301 for more information about this or any other upcoming event.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
education
Torah Academy of Jacksonville proudly announces addition of four new members to its faculty
Standing Rabbi Weiss, Rochelle Miller, Seated Dr. Cantu & Lisa Cohen By Torah Academy of Jacksonville
Torah Academy of Jacksonville is excited to welcome a quartet of fresh faces to its hallways this coming schools year as Dr. Tonja M. Cantu, Rabbi Ephraim Weiss, Lisa Cohen and Rochelle Miller will be working with Academy
students this coming school year. Dr. Cantu will be leading the general studies department as its program and curriculum coordinator. She will be responsible for developing and maintaining curricular standards, staff and student academic development, programming, enrichment and extracur-
ricular activities. Dr. Cantu relocated to Jacksonville from Sacred Heart, Minn., and comes to Torah Academy with a wealth of relevant education and experience. She holds a bachelor’s in elementary education, a master’s in education, and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction. Dr. Cantu has more than 14 years of teaching and academic administrative experience in Minnesota. “My goal is to elevate teaching and learning at Torah Academy,” said Dr. Cantu. “By examining Florida State curriculum standards and the specific needs of the students and teachers at Torah Academy, I will be able to further develop curricular standards and provide the professional development training necessary to promote life-long learners,” she added. Rabbi Weiss joins the Judaic Studies team as its newest fulltime instructor. Having studied at some of the most prestigious Torah institutions in Israel, Rabbi Weiss comes highly qualified with the requisite energy and enthusiasm to help grow the school and community. He received his Rabbinic ordination from HaRav
Zalman Nechemia Goldberg of the Jerusalem Beis Din and is an accredited sofer and shochet. For the past several years, Rabbi Weiss has taught and tutored students of all ages and has positively impacted their lives. Cohen will be teaching social studies and language arts to middle school students at Torah Academy. She has her Masters of education in curriculum and instruction with a focus in digital learning and teaching. After spending many years in the legal profession, Cohen pursued her dream of teaching once her children had completed their college educations. She is very excited to become a part of the wonderful team of Torah Academy and hopes to instill a love of civics, history and writing in her students.
She has previously worked with Jacobson Sinai Academy of North Dade and FLVS Full Time Public (a virtual school). Miller is a Jacksonville native and is very excited to be a new faculty member at the Academy. She will be teaching math and science to middle school students. Ms. Miller is a familiar face at Torah Academy as she was a sought after substitute in the previous school year. She has a degree in accounting and is certified in Elementary Ed and ESE. Additionally, she taught in the Duval County school system for a dozen years and was a tutor for the Jewish Family & Community Services’ Inclusion program. Ms. Miller also teaches at The Temple’s religious school.
Block Gan’s next Shabbat family dinner to be held Sept. 9th BY NATHAN WOODS
Michele Block Gan Yeladim
This month, join other families with young children and Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten for a festive Shabbat Family Dinner and celebration with a special guest visit by PJ Library of Jacksonville. The program takes place Friday, Sept. 9 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. and the festivities are in collaboration with the JCA’s Family Programming and Jewish Outreach department, which provides Jewish-themed social and educational events for the entire community. The evening will include delicious food, fun songs, stories and games in the beautiful
Michele Block Gan Yeladim families will get to enjoy a festive Shabbat family dinner with a special visit from PJ Library of Jacksonville, Sept. 9th
Summer Swim Session
There was plenty of summer fun in the sun at Camp Gan Israel as kids cooled down and took part at local Chabads around Northeast Florida
outdoor courtyard and is a great opportunity to have a fun and meaningful family outing while also getting to meet other families in the community. The Shabbat Family Dinner program is open to the entire community, however the fee is $15 per family and $10 per JCA
valued member family. Registration for the event is required by Sept. 7th, so be sure to act quickly to guarantee your spot. For more information about the program, please contact Dave Flagler at 904730-2100, ext. 271 or Rochelle Golomb at ext. 259.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
EDUCATION
Parents are becoming more involved at Michele Block Gan Yeladim BY NATHAN WOODS
Michele Block Gan Yeladim
The educators at Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten know that a proper early childhood education requires a team effort. For this reason, a core element of the school’s approach is to support, encourage and provide meaningful opportunities for parent involvement. Collaboration between home and school is evident in events like Back-to-School Parent Night, where parents are informed of the many opportunities available for them to volunteer and assist during the school year. By getting involved, parents have the opportunity to contribute to their child’s education in a direct and impactful way.
Parents and grandparents are a wonderful resource,” Said Michele Block Gan Yeladim assistant director Rochelle Golomb. “Children are always so proud to share their loved ones with classmates.” Another way the school excels at parental involvement is by providing a Symposium Parent Morning as part of its annual educators’ symposium. This year’s program takes place the morning after the eighth annual Michele Block Gan Yeladim Early Childhood Symposium and features keynote speaker Tamara Kaldor from the Technology in Early Childhood Center at the Erikson Institute in Chicago. At the parent morning program, titled ‘Being a Media Mentor and Parenting in the Digital Age’, Kaldor will lead a stimulating
follow-up coffee talk on how parents can support their children’s use of technology in appropriate and meaningful ways as well as the latest guidelines and research on screen time. Gan parents love this wonderful annual opportunity to reap the same educational benefits local educators receive. Coffee and light refreshments are served at the program, which takes place Wednesday, Sept. 28th at 9:30 a.m. Symposium Parent Morning is free to Michele Block Gan Yeladim parents, but advanced registration is appreciated. To attend this exclusive parent event or tour the award-winning preschool, contact Rochelle Golomb at 904-7302100, ext. 259.
Parents participate in the Early Childhood Symposium Parent Morning
Martin J. Gottlieb Day School students DuBow Preschool lays and alumni compete in JCC Maccabi foundations for success through comprehensive Games infant & toddler program By DuBow Preschool
By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
Last month two current Martin J. Gottlieb Day School students, Zach Mizrahi and Ayden Israel, along with a pair of alums, Zach and Noah Rosin-Borrousch, travelled from Jacksonville to St. Louis to participate in the JJC Maccabi Games as part of the Jewish Community Alliance’s Makos basketball team. From July 31st to Aug. 5th, more than 1,200 Jewish youth from around the world convened in the heart of the Midwest to compete in Olympic-style sporting games.
The JCA’s Makos basketball team won three games while in St. Louis
The JJC Maccabi Games is the world’s second largest organized sports competition for Jewish teens and in addition to boys’ and girls’ basketball, other competitions included flag football, soccer, swimming, golf and track and field. The
JCA’s Makos won three games in the boys’ 14 and up basketball division, coming very close to earning a bronze medal. The team was coached by JCA Recreation Director Rio Robinson.
The goal of the DuBow Preschool is for students to leave knowing their letters, numbers and while having a great introduction to Judaic studies. Just as important, school administrators want their early learners to depart from the hallways of the school as confident, self reliant, and emotionally secure individuals. To accomplish this, the Foundations For Success Curriculum has been chosen for the infant and toddler classrooms, which has proven to be an invaluable asset in the school’s overall educational toolbox. Foundations for Success is a wonderful theme-based curriculum dedicated to infants and toddlers, maintained by up-to-date research, in addition to direct experiences in early childhood classroom settings. The infant/toddler curriculum focuses on four foundational areas, including relationships, senses and perception, in addition to movement and language. These four components are necessary for supporting infant and toddler development,
and each one works in tandem with each other as no one area exists on its own. Relationships happen to be at the center of the model as they affect all of the other areas of development. Through interacting with and acting in the environments at the DuBow Preschool, young learners experience all four-foundation areas simultaneously, by creating a unique and personal learning experience. The preschool’s learning environment is what makes DuBow so unique. From the school’s youngest infants in the Gozalim class to the ‘big kids’ in Tzeeporim, DuBow Preschool offers students a dual language environment, daily enrichment classes, and the lowest teacher to student ratio in the area with access to the Galinsky Academy, a program that truly takes a family from ‘Diapers to Diplomas’.
How to help your children GROW up with after school enrichment By Chabad of S. Johns
Do you want your child to grow into a productive, self-motivated adult with solid values? Where do you start? The GROW After School Enrichment Program is a studentled learning community which helps children develop emotional intelligence through a series of lessons that draw on the latest child-development research, fused with the timeless wisdom of the Torah. This program teaches kids solid Jewish values through creative hands-on activities such as art, drama, engineering, baking, social action mitzvah projects and teambuilding challenges. This school year GROW After School Enrichment is running a series of innovative workshops, including high holiday art and dream building where kids will explore and develop innovative engineering skills and deepen their relationship with the Land of Israel. Special programming also includes social action club, my pallate and the motivational Aleph Champ-Hebrew reading workshop. These classes are also convenient for parents as Jewish enrichment can be found at Durbin Creek Elementary School and takes place Tuesday’s at 3:45
pm. This year at GROW, who caters to elementary and middle schoolaged children, will help Jewish from many different schools connect and collaborate. “We are building the Jewish leaders of tomorrow, today,” said Mrs. Dini Sharfstein, Youth Director at Chabad of St. Johns. “We need to inspire kids to feel responsible for others and to help them see their own important place within the Jewish community and the world at large,” she added. “Our goal for GROW is that kids should be excited about being Jewish. They should be proud and love it.” With the above sentiments in mind, you send your kids to soccer practice, piano lessons and ballet recitals, so are you ready to give them a fun, meaningful Jewish experience, that will last them a life time? GROW Registration is open for the 2016-17 school year. For more information, visit JewishSJohnsCounty.com/GROW or email dini@JewishSJohnsCounty.com.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
mensch of the month
m o t m September
2016
Mike Elkin Volunteer who does good while making sure he is always on the move Social justice feeds Mike Elkin’s soul. Like so many of us, he was horrified by the June 17, 2015 incident at the Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, S.C., where a murderer entered a Bible Study gathering and killed nine people. For Elkin, it was not enough to express concern and to issue proclamations of solidarity. Instead, he insisted that we stand with the church members and organized a caravan of Temple members to spend a weekend in Charleston, culminating in a shared worship experience. Mike Elkin understands that as Jews we are commanded to perform acts of loving kindness each and every day. He spreads the impact of those actions by chairing Temple’s annual Mitzvah Day, when hundreds of Temple members fan out across the community to help social service agencies in our community. Elkin also organizes the cooking crew and does the shopping for Mitzvah Meals, a social action project of the entire Jewish community, where each year community volunteers pack 500 plus meals and deliver them to recipients of the Aging True Meals on Wheels program.
Elkin ‘prays with his feet’ and encourages his fellow community members to do the same, much like Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel did with Dr. Martin Luther King.
If you would like to nominate someone special for Mensch of the Month who volunteers both their time and efforts to the Jacksonville Jewish community, simply submit their name, photo and a short write-up about them to jjn@ jewishjacksonville.org
Jewish Historical Society to hold 451st anniversary event for oldest city By St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society
Jack A. Frisch, Ph.D., retired Professor of Anthropology at Wayne State University and SUNY Plattsburgh will help the St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society
mark the 451st anniversary of the founding of the first European City in what would become the United States. Professor Frisch will speak at this special event scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 8th at 7 p.m. in the Flagler Room of the Old Ponce de Leon Hotel on the Flagler College Campus. The evening will be dedi-
cated to understanding Conversos in the New World, focusing on Jews hiding from the Inquisition among the early Catholics of the Western Hemisphere. The program is free, as all are welcome and no advance arrangements are necessary. Call (904) 829-6481 for directions or more information.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
education
Registration now open for 2016 Michele Block Gan Yeladim’s Early Childhood Symposium BY NATHAN WOODS
Michele Block Gan Yeladim
Registration for the Michele Block Gan Yeladim’s eighth annual Early Childhood Symposium is now open. This year’s symposium, titled ‘Technology: Creative Use in the Classroom’, takes place Tuesday, Sept. 27th at 5:30 p.m. and focuses on the use of technology in early childhood education settings. The symposium’s keynote speaker, Tamara Kaldor, works as the assistant director of Technology in Early Childhood Center at the Erikson Institute in Chicago and has extensive experience on the subject of childhood technology use. Kaldor recently finished a stint in Washington, D.C., where she consulted with the White House on updates to the national recommendations for childhood exposure to technology.
These recommendations will be published in October. Since 2009, Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergraten’s award-winning annual symposium has provided educators in the Jacksonville area with a unique opportunity for collaboration with fellow educators and participation in an enriching and informative experience. This quality, professional development conference meets the criteria for formal continuing education units and the high standards of the Florida Association of Education of Young Childhood. The symposium evening also includes stimulating breakout workshop sessions, displays and a delicious catered kosher dinner. Registration for the 2016 symposium is currently open online at jcajax.org/ece and the event is open to Jewish educa-
tors at a reduced rate. To inquire about receiving a discount on registration fees, please contact Rochelle Golomb at 904730-2100, ext. 259 or rochelle. golomb@jcajax.org, prior to registering.
Camp KiTov wraps up its 70th summer of fun and friendships By Jacksonville Jewish Center
Summer 2016 flew by at Camp KiTov as campers and counselors enjoyed each week with a different theme, and a different field trip. The favorite field trip of the summer was to Pump It Up during Jungle week, where campers sure did act like monkeys while jumping, sliding and running around. Mrs. Susan Burkhart was with the camp, helping run its science program and enabling campers to explore gravity, excavation, floating, and so much more. Music was also a big theme this summer as favorite tunes could be heard with Mr. B and kids got good at freeze dance, while doing art
projects each week. Swim lessons were held most mornings and free swims were available for campers in the afternoons. Aside from the water sports, other sports were on hand for the taking as archery and fishing were held each week. The camps’ annual Ki Tov overnight was a huge success as counselors led hide and seek, flashlight tag, along with a late night snack, and even the ghost tour. Aside from the fun, there was much spirituality to be had as the Center’s clergy for helped bring in the Sabbath every Friday, enabling campers to sing songs, read books, and even see the Torah. Each year Camp KiTov strives
to build long lasting memories for the children and the camp prides itself on being more than successful in that vein. This was evident as Camp KiTov celebrated 70 years of fun summers in 2016. Even more fun will sure be had during the camp’s 71st summer in 2017, where friendships begin and the fun never stops.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
education
Martin J. Gottlieb Day School starts school year with special celebration By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
On August 22nd, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School began its 55th school year. The first day of school began with the annual blessing of the new Kindergarten class, presided over by Head of Schools, Rabbi Jim Rogozen. This meaningful ceremony took place in the school’s library, with the Middle School students lining the hallway to cheer on the incoming
five-year-olds as they made their way to their classroom. Parents were treated to a ‘Welcome Back’ breakfast courtesy of the Galinsky Academy PTA, and were able to relax and catch up on each other’s summer adventures. Founded in 1961 and formerly known as Solomon Schechter Day School, many of today’s students in 2016 are second or third generation day schoolers. Returning students and teach-
ers are excited about the busy year ahead, including the Middle School Mitzvah Program headed by Middle School Vice Principal Edith Horovitz, in which students leave campus every Friday afternoon to work on service learning projects around Jacksonville. For more information about Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, a Solomon Schechter K – 8, please call admissions director Nancy Davis at 904-268-4200, ext. 147.
Rabbi Rogozen gives the annual blessing of the new Kindergarten class
The Temple’s Religious Plenty of Jewish holiday celebrations School teaches students ahead at Michele Block Gan Yeladim BY NATHAN WOODS so that they can do Michele Block Gan Yeladim
BY NAOMI CHASE
Religious School Director
A core Jewish value of Temple’s Religious School program is to ‘Teach in order to do’. While it is important to align subject matter with the best developmental age to teach it and to ultimately perfect the methodologies that lead to mastery, using the learning answers the question, ‘Why learn this?’. From the earliest grades, Temple students are exposed to a Hebrew vocabulary rich in words relevant to Jewish living. They then see those words in action, through literature, prayer, art, music and a variety of other modalities which reinforce Hebrew in active ways. Phonics is taught later to advance and synthesize Hebrew language acquisition. Bar and Bat Mitzvah ceremonies are but one of many life cycle experiences that integrate Hebrew. The Temple’s educational process strives to involve parents and whole families so that worship services, holiday observances, life cycles events and social action
initiatives become the times and places where Jewish learning finds its natural expression. When experiences of learning are shared by the teacher, child, family, and community, they have enduring meaning. These are the ways that education drives more than just learning; it is how relationships are created and nurtured, and Jewish identity and commitment develop. It’s with this in mind that The Temple invites parents, grandparents and even those without children in the school to join in Religious School programs to learn to do, and to ultimately help bring the teaching full circle.
In the new school year, Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten gears up to celebrate the upcoming Jewish New Year and fall holidays. On Friday, Sept. 30th, preschool age children can celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, in the program, ‘Everything Apples’. This enrichment class is open to any children between the ages of three and six by Sept. 1st. Michele Block Gan Yeladim Judaics resource teacher, Morah Karen Morse, leads this special holiday class where children bake a delicious apple treat and make an apple project to take home. On Friday, Oct. 21, children, ages 3 – 6, can experience the wonderful holiday of Sukkot with ‘Sensational Sensory Sukkot’. This program is also led by Morah Morse and participating children will stimulate their five senses inside the sukkah, creating items to taste, touch, hear, see and feel.
Students celebrate Sukkot by having tasty treats inside the Sukkah
“Karen’s warm and inclusive nature, combined with her love of Jewish holidays and traditions, makes for a wonderful environment for her little friends,” said Michele Block Gan Yeladim director Theresa Levy. “Children love to be with her and these classes provide a special time to bond for all who participate,”
Explained Michele Block Gan Yeladim director Theresa Levy. Register for both of these exciting and enriching programs at jcajax.org. Both programs are $15 each, however JCA valued members are $10. For more information, please contact Theresa Levy at 904-730-2100, ext. 237 or Rochelle Golomb at ext. 259.
Selevan Religious School students benefit from new technology and programs this Learning how to maintain school year
your body, mind and spirit
By Selevan Religious School
The Bernard & Alice Selevan Religious School of the Jacksonville Jewish Center is off to a great start as classes in grades K-7 are filled with enthusiastic students, who are eager to continue their studies in Jewish history, Torah, rituals, holidays and, of course, Hebrew. Brand new books, computer licenses to the 24/7 online learning center, and school backpacks have been distributed, while computers and Smartboards are enjoyed in every classroom, with a never-ending variety of newly developed Jewish sites and games to keep students stimulated and busy. The lower school curriculum is being taught through a rotation of omanut (arts and crafts), sifrut (literature), musica (music) and teknologia (technology) classes. New this year is the addition Women listen to Dr. Owais of San Jose Chiropractic and Nechamie Browd, of ‘Fun with Hebrew’, where who discussed a holistic approach to having a healthy body and spirit students learn Hebrew colors,
Selevan religious school students get hands on experience with the Torah
months, numbers, conversation, and words related to their current studies. The Jewish Theological Seminary’s Project Etgar program is a huge hit with middleschoolers, utilizing cooperative learning and hands-on projects to challenge sixth and seventh graders of all backgrounds and abilities. Mitzvah Day and plenty of family programs allow par-
Read Hebrew America’s six week study course to be offered at Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
Do you regret never having learned to read Hebrew when you were a child or have you forgotten the Hebrew you learned back then and want a quick and easy refresher? If so, you are in luck because for the third consecutive year, The Temple will offer Read Hebrew America, beginning Sunday, Oct.
16th. There are two six-week segments to Read Hebrew America and at the conclusion of the very first session, participants will be able to recognize some letters and vowels and even read a complete sentence. By the end of the first six sessions, those in attendance will be reading short sentences and paragraphs from Mishkan T’filah. In the second six-week
segment, they’ll improve their reading skills, while building competence and confidence. For more information, or to register for the program, call the Temple office at 904-733-7078, or e-mail rsvp@TheTempleJacksonville.org. There is no charge for the program and you do not have to be a Temple member to participate.
ents to join in the fun, and field trips this year will include River Garden, F.A.N.N. as well as the Jacksonville Zoo. It is not too late to join the growing student body, so for more information, please visit the school’s official website at barsr.org or feel free to contact Principal Lois Tompkins via email at LTompkins@basrs.org or by phone at 904 268-4200, ext. 146.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
synagogue news
Etz Chaim Synagogue to host Rabbi Ken Spiro for fall Shabbaton
BY RABBI YAAKOV FISCH Etz Chaim Synagogue
Etz Chaim Synagogue is pleased to announce that it will host Rabbi Ken Spiro as its scholar in residence, Sept. 16-17th. He will be delivering multiple presentations over the weekend on the topics of ‘World Perfect: The Jewish Impact on Civilization’, along with ‘Why The Jews-The Eye-Opening Explanation of the World’s Longest Hatred’, and ‘The Seven Wonders of Jewish History’. Rabbi Spiro is a Senior Lecturer and Researcher for Aish HaTorahs Discovery Seminars
Rabbi Ken Spiro will be in Jacksonville Sept. 16-17th at Etz Chaim
and the JerusalemU. In addition,
he is a licensed tour guide from
the Israel Ministry of Tourism. Rabbi Spiro graduated from Vassar College with a BA in Russian Language and Literature and did graduate studies at the Pushkin Institute in Moscow. He has an MA in History from The Vermont College of Norwich University and Rabbinic Ordination from Yeshiva Aish HaTorah in Jerusalem. Additionally, the Rabbi has appeared on numerous radio and television programs such as B.B.C. Radio and TV, The National Geographic Channel, The History Channel, Channel 4 England and Arutz ShevaIsrael National Radio. He is the
author of ‘WorldPerfect – The Jewish Impact on Civilization’ published by HCI books and ‘Crash Course in Jewish History’ published by Targum Press. His writings and seminars can be accessed his website and aish.com. Born and raised in the U.S. Rabbi Spiro has lived in Israel since 1982, where he served in a combat infantry unit in the IDF and currently resides in Givat Zeev with his wife and five children. There is no charge to attend any of Rabbi Spiro’s lectures that weekend and they are open to the entire community. For more information, please visit, www.etzchaim.org.
Beth El Sisterhood’s 2016 Temple gift shop plans September sale to honor Wendy Efron’s memory game day set for Oct. 18 By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
The Sisterhood at Congregation Ahavath Chesed is planning to honor the memory of beloved Temple member and longtime Judaica Shop proprietor Wendy Efron with two storewide sales in September. Efron served as the buyer for the Gift Shop for almost 20 years and personally selected many of the beautiful Judaica items that will be included in the sale, which will take place Sunday September 11th and the following Sunday, Sept. 18th. “When I look around the gift shop, I see Wendy’s artistic influence, her taste and her eye for beauty,” said Renee Weinstein, co-chair of the Judaica Shop at The Temple. “I can’t think of a better way to remember her than having something she hand-picked to use
Wendy Efron of Blessed Memory
for a holiday or just to display in my home.” Efron, who passed away in May after a brief battle with cancer was featured in the February edition of the Jacksonville Jewish News for just that talent and ability. The sales will begin at 9:30 a.m. and run through 12:30 p.m. on both Sundays, with all of the items in the gift shop being available at a 10-percent discount. Money raised from the sale will benefit The Sisterhood, TIR and The Temple. “Wendy was dedicated to service in the Jewish community, and she was particularly devoted to our Gift Shop” said Weinstein. “We hope this sale will give everyone an opportunity to remember and treasure her legacy.” For more information on the sale or the shop, contact Renee Weinstein at rkwein@comcast.net.
By Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue Sisterhood
The sisterhood of Beth El – The Beaches Synagogue will be holding its annual game day, Tuesday, Oct. 18th from 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Breakfast, lunch, and drinks will be provided at the synagogue, located at 288 Roscoe Blvd N. in Ponte Vedra. Create a table of friends for Mah Jongg, bridge and board games, card games, or whichever game you want to bring. Those who don’t have a group to play with won’t have to worry as one will be found for them. There is a $25 minimum donation required and door prizes, 50/50 drawings and raffles will also be taking place.
Temple Bet Yam buys out the Limelight Dan Nichols Theatre for showing of Oklahoma in Oct. Continued from pg. 1 BY JACKIE WITTE Temple Bet Yam
‘Oklahoma’, where the corn is high as an elephant’s eye is coming to the Limelight Theatre of St. Augustine, Saturday evening, October 15th and Temple Bet Yam has bought out the house for Rodgers and Hammerstein’s endearing and enduring classic. Guaranteed you’ll be humming the famous tunes for quite a while, hors d’oeuvres will be served at 6:30 p.m. and the performance will begin at 7:30. Open seating
tickets are $30 for this fundraising event, so either contact Andi Marx at 904-460-9569 or amarx46@
comcast.net, or Terre Wallach at 904-826-0281 or terretsp@ bellsouth.net.
“I sincerely hope you can make special plans to join us as we gather to celebrate a year of giving and growing as my band, Eighteen, and I will be performing at The Temple in support of the Annual Campaign Kickoff for the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville.” “To this day, he (Dan Nichols) is the single greatest influence on my Jewish music journey,” Rabbi Cohen boasted. “I have been playing and we have been praying with his music at Temple for four years, so I am thrilled that our Jacksonville Jewish Dan Nichols will perform the weekcommunity has the opportunity end of Sept. 16 - 18th at Congregato be moved and uplifted by this tion Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) amazing talent.”
Hear more from Nichols’ band ‘Eighteen’ at dannicholsmusic.com
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
www.jewishjacksonville.org
synagogue news
The Temple blessed with new prayer books in time for high holy days By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
This High Holy Day season, the Temple congregation will be worshipping with a new prayer book, Mishkan Hanefesh (Sanctuary of the Soul,) which was adopted by the CCAR (Central Conference of American Rabbis) in 2015. This prayer book, like its Shabbat and Festival version entitled Mishkan T’filah (A Dwelling Place for Prayer) has an expanded view of each prayer on a two-page layout. “Pesach has the seder, Sukkot has the sukkah, and Chanukah has the candles, but the High Holy Days have only prayer, which is one of the most challenging and complex of all modern Jewish observances,”
explained Rabbi Rick Shapiro, Interim Senior Rabbi at Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple). Each prayer is represented in Hebrew, in transliteration and with one, or more English interpretations. A very instructive element of the prayer book is an index found in the margin of each page which shows the progress through the service, so each worshipper always knows exactly where the congregation is in the service. Karen and Frank Backilman blessed their Temple congregation with a most generous gift enabling the purchase of the entire suite of prayer books: Mishkan T’filah, the Shabbat siddur, Mishkan Hanefesh, the machzor for the High Holy
Days, the Shabbat siddur designed for children and the worship books for houses of mourning. In all, more than 3,250 new prayer books were purchased. The Backilmans’ gift was made in memory of their parents, Richard and Sheila Temko and Samuel and Yetta Backilman. “The words of our faith that were written in Hebrew centuries ago do not change, but each generation has a chance to breathe new life into their interpretation,” said Rabbi Shapiro, who along with Associate Rabbi Matt Cohen, will facilitate a conversation on the nature of prayer and its connection to spirituality, while exploring the ins and outs of this new prayer book. These discussions will take place on three successive Wednesdays,
Temple Bet Yam to hold wine and cheese membership fair BY JACKIE WITTE Temple Bet Yam
Wine and cheese will be served at Temple Bet Yam’s next membership fair and open house for new and prospective members. The event will be held Sunday, Sept.11th from 2-4 p.m. at the Synagogue, which is located at 2055 Wildwood Drive in St. Augustine. Temple Bet Yam is a warm, welcoming Reform congregation led by Rabbi Fred Raskind and was founded by 14 families in 1993. Today, 115 of tradi-
tional and interfaith backgrounds from St. Johns and surrounding counties call the congregation home. TBY has a vibrant Religious School directed by Heather Naughton, and also supports many groups and activities to serve everyone’s interests. From men’s club, to sisterhood, social justice, lifelong learning, choir, and social events, there is a lot to become involved in. Services are held twice a month with additional holiday observances and special events. To see what’s happening each month, go to the calendar at templebetyam.org or call 904-819-1875.
Jacksonville set to host its first ever multi-generational and community wide mega challah bake, Nov. 10th
By Etz Chaim Synagogue
The time has finally come to join the women of greater Jacksonville on Thursday Nov. 10th at 7 p.m. for an evening of Jewish pride, unity and inspiration during the area’s first ever multigenerational mega challah bake. While it sounds like the simple act of baking a special Jewish bread called challah, this mega challah bake which will be held at The Temple is much more than just that. It is an evening where women and girls of all ages, from every facet of the community will unite together under one roof through the centuries old tradition of baking challah. The cultural, spiritual and emotional significance of women baking challah through the ages will be discussed as it relates to the 21st century woman. Discover what the significance of baking challah has on your life as every woman who attends the event will learn how to make a delicious challah dough and then be taught how to braid their very own to take home and bake. The event will be accompanied by
live music performed by musician Sara Jacobs. The partnering organizations of this event are Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple), The Jacksonville Jewish Center, Federation Women’s Division, Beth El at the Beaches Synagogue and Etz Chaim Synagogue invite and encourage all women and girls from across the Jacksonville Jewish community to attend this momentous occasion. The event which will be hosted by The Temple (8727 San Jose Blvd.) requires a nominal $10 cover fee that will be used to cover expenses. All females ages 12 and older are invited to join, so for more information or to register, please contact event organizers at jaxmegachallahbake@gmail.com. The event is also searchable on Facebook at JaxMegaChallahBake. Space is limited, so please be sure to send in your RSVP by Nov. 3rd to reserve your spot. The hostess committee, consisting of Andrea Mail, Tammy Shummer, Caren Appel, Allison Jacob, Henny Fisch, Devora Feigenbaum and Sylvia Jaffa are looking forward to everyone being a part of this history making event.
starting Sept. 14th and will last until the 28th. Each session will begin at 7 p.m. at The Temple, so for more information, or to
register for the class, please call Edwinna at 904-733-7078 or email her at egreen@TheTempleJacksonville.org.
Temple Bet Yam to kick off High Holy Days with special S’lichot service
BY JACKIE WITTE Temple Bet Yam
High Holy Day services at Temple Bet Yam will officially begin with a special S’lichot service, scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 25th at 7 p.m. A reform
congregation, Temple Bet Yam is located at 2055 Wildwood Dr., in St. Augustine. Please refer to the October Jacksonville Jewish News for a complete listing with all High Holy Day schedules of synagogues and Chabad here in Northeast Florida.
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federation news
rGEN looks forward toward the fall after an active summer season
rGEN was out in full force for Jewish Community Fun with the Suns Day Inquiring minds and smiling faces at ‘Torah on Tap’
BY ARIEL FRECHTMAN rGEN Director arielf@jewishjacksonville.org
What a summer it’s been for rGEN. While working hard to plan dynamic, relevant programming for the upcoming year, Jewish young professionals stayed connected this summer through the ‘Mid-Month Mingle’ series which spanned the city, from from Tinsletown to Riverside and even San Marco. Through these networking-style happy hours, nearly 20 newcomers were introduced to the group,
rGEN held three Mid-Month Mingles in the summer
while existing friendships were strengthened over drinks and coffee at World of Beer, The Grape and Grain Exchange, and BREW. The series concluded in August at Kitchen on San Marco with rGEN first’s Torah on Tap in nearly half a decade. The event was hosted by Rabbi Tilman of the Jacksonville Jewish Center who led a conversation about Tisha B’Av and historical Jewish tragedy. In addition to the rGEN specific events enjoyed by young professionals, there was great participation among the rGEN crowd at the Women’s Division’s annual
Girlfriend Connection in May, as well as Jewish Community Fun with the Suns Day in July. As summer draws to a close, there is much to look forward to in the fall, including the upcoming Craft Cocktail Kickoff in September, and the annual Break the Fast and Sukkot celebration in October. Most importantly, the steering committee meets this month and would like to hear any and all feedback and suggestions from the community, so please pass them along to rGEN Director Ariel Frechtman at arielf@jewishjacksonville.org.
The rGEN men at one of the summer’s numerous ‘Mid Month Mingles’
Faces full of smiles and glasses full of choice hops at The Grape & Grain
rGEN ladies made an appearance at the Federation’s Women’s Division’s 11th annual Girlfriend Connection, held in May at the Jacksonville Jewish Center
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
federation news
Israeli teen delegation is a big hit during recent visit to Jacksonville
Trip to Peterbrooke
Great escape room
summer camp at the j
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
CLASSROOM HELP
TRIP TO RIVER GARDEN
BY JILL ABEL
Israeli Partenership Director jilla@jewishjacksonville.org
For two weeks in July, Jacksonville played host to an incredible teen delegation and their chaperone from our Partnership city of Hadera, Israel. The Israelis enjoyed their interactions with campers at many of our local Jewish Day Camps including the JCA Theater Camp and Camp Sabra, Camp Sheves Achim at Etz Chaim and also at Camp Ki Tov at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. In addition to working at the camps, the teens shared an evening of music with the residents at The Coves and experienced many fun local outings including The Great Escape Room, a historic tour of St. Augustine, a Peterbrooke Chocolate class and a painting afternoon at Yes You Canvas. During their stay, the delegation and their host teens attended services at The Temple, Jacksonville Jewish Center and Etz Chaim. Their trip was capped off with a special day at Universal Studios Orlando. One teen, Gili Hornung shared that this “opportunity to travel to the United States was a chance to see everything new but also to see that we all share the same connection,” and that “This experience has totally
changed my way of thinking.” Amit Hacohen, another teen said that “this Partnership is not just one-sided, as it’s important for Americans to travel to Israel, but we need to come here and make this connection, too.” A huge thank you goes out to the Lantinberg, Osher, RosinBorrousch, Sims, and Wright families for opening their homes and doing such a fabulous job of hosting the delegation. A special thank you is given to all of our host teens who interacted with the delegation and helped them learn more about the United States, Jacksonville and about the beauty of this special partnership that we share with our brothers and sisters in Israel. Delegation chaperone, Gal Karablikov shared that during his time here he really felt a sense of community because, “In Israel, Jews are everywhere and here (in Jacksonville) we feel like the people work hard to make this a strong Jewish community.”
Religious School opens Sunday, Sept. 11th
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
federation news P2G Program Continued from pg. 1 an abbreviated trip overseas.” Certain subjects tackled thus far between Franzblau, a 33-year old communications professional from New Jersey and his counterpart, Shelly Levi, who is in a similar stage of life and lives and works as an attorney in Hadera, includes responses to prominent and poignant quotes, how they view themselves in the world, conversations about previous travel to foreign lands, and special photo essays. “This program has enabled me to meet another Jewish person from halfway around the world and to learn about his mentality which has been shaped by his experience in the States,” Levi said. “In addition, this has been an amazing opportunity for me to expose my partner to what our life is like here in Israel and show him that it easily could become
his home.” “I think once we meet in the fall, it will be just so easy to communicate and connect because we have already laid the foundation for a solid friendship during our study this past year,” Franzblau echoed of his Israeli peer’s sentiments. “When an American Jew meets an Israeli, there is many times already a strong bond, but that bond will be made stronger because of our prior communication with one another and exploration of these deep and meaningful issues.” “I feel grateful to have been given the opportunity and the privilege to meet a new amazing friend,” Levi added. “I have no doubt that this friendship will become stronger and that we’ll see Matt a lot more here in Israel as he feels more and more at home here.”
The nearly yearlong course consists of 20 participants, 10 from the U.S. and 10 from Israel. “The idea of this program is the more you know about people somewhere else in the world, the more likely you are to feel connected and engaged in that place through the people,” said Rebecca Engel, Director of Strategic Initiatives at Charleston Jewish Federation. Charleston is one of 10 cities in the southeast region of the U.S. that is partnered up with HaderaEiron in Israel, and administrators there helped spearhead this unique program for a very specific reason. “Like many Jewish organizations, we were looking for a creative way to engage young professionals,with limited time but a desire for meaningful connections,” Engel explained.
That void has quickly been filled thanks to Hamidrasha’s curriculum, enabling young professionals in the U.S. and Israel to connect and make the distance between their desks and phones seem much smaller than halfway around the world. “As I get to talk to someone about what is going on day in and day out, I find they have the same kinds of general challenges there as we do here,” said Charleston participant Joseph Alvo. “We are very much the same, with one exception, and that is that we have found most Israelis take it for granted that they are mostly surrounded by a majority of other Jewish people in their daily life, while of course, that is not the case here in the United States,” he added. “My faith conjures a sense of pride, peace, and belonging to
Research your roots at September’s Jewish Java BY ISABEL BALOTIN
Shalom Jacksonville Director shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org
Federation’s Shalom Jacksonville’s September Java will be all about you. In less than an hour participants will have the tools to help them begin the process of finding out where their family came from and lots more. Amateur genealogists of all ages are invited to attend this event, scheduled Wednesday, Sept. 7th from 9 – 10:30 a.m., so they can begin this journey of discovery as early as possible. As it has for the past few
months, Java will be held at River Garden Senior Services, which is now the new permanent home for Jewish Java. The morning will begin with a bagel breakfast hosted by River Garden followed by programming. Barbara Kiersh, a retired genealogy librarian from the Jacksonville Public Library, who studied American Genealogy with the National Genealogical Society will lead the morning and the research. Kiersh is currently teaching Genealogy at UNF’s OLLI program and has been researching her own family roots for more than 20 years.
The program will be a brief introduction into beginning genealogy along with the resources available to finding your European and Sephardic roots. Beginning with the generation who came to America, discussions will focus primarily on the census, immigration and naturalization records, in addition to uniquely Jewish brick walls such as name changes. To assist you in the researching process, informational handouts will be provided in order to take home. RSVP for this event is required by Sunday, Sept. 4th by calling Isabel Balotin at 904-448-5000, ext. 206 or sending an email to
shalomjax@jewishjacksonville. org. Reservations are required so that enough food is available for everyone who would like to have some. Shalom Jacksonville is the official Jewish welcome wagon of Northeast Florida and is a program of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. We are delighted that our partner agency, River Garden Senior Services has generously offered their beautiful Cohen Auditorium and delicious food for all our Jewish Java programs.
something greater than myself, and connecting with an Israeli Jewish young professional gives me a deeper appreciation for this religion that is also so much a culture,” explained Charleston counterpart Katie Strumpf of her experience in the program thus far. “Despite living on different continents, we are linked through our Judaism, which transcends miles and drastically different societies.” Those two similar but very different worlds will converge Nov. 3-6 in Chattanooga, where both Israelis and Americans are scheduled to take part in a very special bonding experience through a number of various meaningful activities and discussions. Plans are also being developed for a potential trip for the Americans to Israel during summer 2017, so for more information on Partenrship2Gether’s Southeast consortium or to sign up for the next Leadership2Gether program, contact Jill Abel at 904-448-5000, ext 200 or via jilla@jewishjacksonville.org.
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September 2016 Av/Elul 5776 To include your adult education event in this listing please e-mail the Jacksonville Jewish News at jjn@jewishjacksonville.org, with the time/date or frequency of the event from your specific organization or synagogue, along with a short description of each program or event.
Special Events September 8th
Jewish Community Alliance (7 – 8 p.m.) STRESSED TO THE MAX – Join holistic health provider Dr. Jon Repole as he explains how excessive stress affects the body, and what you can do about it. The fee is $5, however JCA valued members are free. Advance registration is appreciated.
September 10th
Jacksonville Jewish Center (9:15 a.m.)
Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
www.jewishjacksonville.org
adult education SHALom MEDITATION - Please join us for 25 minutes of meditation in a Jewish environment where 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).
September 11th
Jacksonville Jewish Center (12:30 p.m.) YIDDISH ‘CLUB’ - This is an informal group of people with varying levels of ability. Meet other local speakers to practice the language, or to just shmooze a bisl! We’ll listen to Klezmer music, watch videos and films, read and speak in Yiddish, so please join us.
September 15th
Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (7 p.m.) BELLES BOOK CLUB - The BELLES (Beth El Literary Ladies Enjoying Sisterhood) Book Club will meet again, Thursday, Sept. 15th. The book to be discussed is Sala’s Gift by Ann Kirschner. Kirschner draws on her mother’s letters to tell Sala’s story which
gives evidence of humanity in the face of terrible conditions. Religious faith persisted despite the Nazi campaign to eliminate the Jews. Sala’s Gift is not only the story of Sala’s imprisonment, but also of her coming-of-age. The discussion will be led by Kirschner’s niece, Rachel Mitchell, and we may be lucky enough to have Ann herself attend via video conference. Jacksonville Jewish Center (7:30 p.m.) BOOK CLUB - open to all interested adults who meet at Barnes & Noble on San Jose Blvd.
September 17th
Jewish Community Alliance (8 a.m.) COFFEE & TORAH - Come enjoy a strong cup of brew and a tasty breakfast treat along with hourlong thought-provoking insights into the weekly Torah portion in the intimate setting of Rabbi Lubliner’s office.
September 24th
Jacksonville Jewish Center (during Shabbat services)
CHAI MITZVAH ‘GRADUATION’ – Chai Mitzvah is a national program created as a way to engage adults in a Jewish journey throughout their lives. Participants attend monthly study sessions, identify something Jewish that they wanted to learn, take on or deepen an existing Jewish ritual, and engage in social action. The new class will begin in October. Please contact Lois Tompkins at ltompkins@basrs.org for more information about signing up in advance for next year’s class.
September 25th
Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (9:30 - 10:30 a.m.) USING JEWISH TECHNIQUES TO RAISE SELF-RELIANT CHILDREN - Based on the Book Blessings of a Skinned Knee-Presented by Hilary Rotenberg, MSW and co-sponsored by JFCS. Bagels and coffee will be provided prior to the program at 9 a.m. Temple Bet Yam (7 p.m.) S’LICHOT SERVICE - temple Bet Yam will be holding its S’lichot service as part of its Life Long Learning program.
September 28th
Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (6:30 - 7:15 p.m.) BEGINNING HEBREW FOR ADULTS - This introductory class will be taught by Education Director Beth Brenner and is for those who have never learned Hebrew but always wanted to. This class will meet the second and fourth Wednesday of every month starting in October. Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (7:30 - 8:45 p.m.) INTERMEDIATE HEBREW FOR ADULTS - This intermediate class will be taught by Education Director Beth Brenner and is designed for those students who want to improve upon their basic knowledge of the Hebrew language. This class will meet the second and fourth Wednesday of every month starting in October.
Regular Events Saturdays
Chabad - Mandarin HQ (8:30 a.m.) Insights on the Torah Portion Shabbos Mornings with instructor: Rabbi Mendy Browd.
Sundays
Chabad - Mandarin HQ (8:15 a.m.) Daily Chassidic Philosophy with instructor Rabbi Yossie Kahanov. Jacksonville Jewish Center (10:15 a.m.-12 p.m) FOUNDATIONS OF JUDAISM CLASS - Classes are held at the JJC and are open to all, whether
you are considering conversion, seeking to understand a friend or relative’s religious choices, or simply trying to go beyond your childhood Jewish education. This month, the topics will be Jewish Identity and Spirituality, taught by Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner, and People of the Book(s), taught by Rabbi Jim Rogozen.
Mondays
Jacksonville Jewish Center (following morning minyan) MONDAY MINYAN MAPQUEST - Rabbi Lubliner takes us on a tour of Jewish cities, explaining history and current statistics of some well-known and not-sowell-known Jewish communities in our country. Jacksonville Jewish Center (11:30 a.m.) SERVICE SKILLS AND INTERMEDIATE LEVEL HEBREW - Learn about our JJC services, tunes, prayer fluency, and choreography. Must know Hebrew letters, but we’ll work on fluency together . Jacksonville Jewish Center (7:15 pm) TALMUD CLASS - Rabbi Lubliner explores communal responses to crisis in tractate Ta’anit. Open to all
Wednesdays
Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (10:30 a.m.) YOGA SHALOM AND MEDITATION SPIRITUALITY - Yoga Shalom meets every Wednesday at Beth El. Using a DVD with Cantor Lisa Levine and Carol Kurgoff, you will learn to relax your body, calm your mind, and nurture your spirit. We learn to use advanced, gentle chair modifications for each posture sequence. Immediately following Yoga Shalom is an hour of Jewish Meditation and Spirituality for you to study and grow spiritually within a Jewish framework (meditation resumes Sept. 14th). Chabad - Mandarin HQ (after Maariv) Exploring The Talmud in the evening with instructor Rabbi Mendy Browd. Chabad - Mandarin HQ (7:30 p.m.) Women’s Study Group with instructor, Rebbetzin Rivkie Kahanov. Jewish Community Alliance (6 – 7 p.m.) HEAL YOURSELF WITH FELENKRAIS – The Feldenkrais Method® is a form of mind-body cooperation using gentle movements to improve posture, coordination and flexibility. Dr. NancyLaurel Pettersen leads this class. The fee is $60 and $40 for JCA valued members. Held from Sept. 14th – Oct. 5th and registration is required by September 12.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
lifecycles Births
Haley Madison Greenspan was born to parents Nancy and Logan Greenspan of Atlanta, on Monday, July 25, 2016. Proud grandparents are Carol and Bruce Greenspan and great Haley Greenspan grandfather Milton Greenspan, all of Jacksonville.
Accomplishments
Rachel Alexandria Reindl, daughter of Jeff and Marcy Appelbaum Reindl has been awarded a fellowship position in Non-Profit Management with the University of Florida Hillel in Gainesville. The fellowship has been engineered to help lay a professional foundation and to nurture Rachel Reindl leadership Marcy Appelbaum development Photography through the lens of Judaism. Reindl will collaborate with a team of other students and working professionals to develop projects that help to engage the campus community. Reindl is a sophomore at UF pursuing a degree in Family, Youth and Community Sciences. Congratulations to Jeff Nykerk for winning a silver medal and second place in the 2016 USA Masters Games held July 21 – 24th in Greensboro, N.C. Nykerk competed in the 50 and over men’s singles tennis diviJeff Nykerk sion.
Weddings
Yanir Michael Demri and Courtney Ann Simmons were married Sunday, July 10th at the Bellevue Hotel in Philadelphia. The brother of the groom, Ori Demri, was the best man and the sister of the bride, Hailey Kiely, was the matron of honor. The groom is the son of Moti and Cindy Demri and Simmons Demri and graduated from UF with a degree in Design. He now works for JRM Management as a
Construction Project Manager in New York. The bride is the daughter of Lisa and Bruce Grossman and Albert and Jen Simmons. She graduated from Marymount College and later NYU with a Master’s in Education, and is currently an educational theatre teacher in the New York City public school system. The couple met briefly in Israel and by chance met again at a Shabbat dinner in New York City and the rest is history. They reside in New York City and will honeymoon in Mallorca and Barcelona, followed by a family celebration with all the groom’s relatives in Israel.
Milestones
Sharon and Bruce Witten celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, Aug. 21, 2016. Dr. and Mrs. Witten were married on that same date in 1966 in Houston, Texas, and honeymooned in Las Vegas and California. Dr. and Mrs. Witten are longtime Jacksonville residents, and Dr. The Witten Family Witten has practiced medicine at St. Augustine’s Flagler Hospital for more than 40 years. The Wittens have been active supporters of the Jacksonville Jewish Center, the Jewish Community Alliance, and many other philanthropic and civic organizations during their 50 years of marriage. The couple proudly shared their milestone with sons Douglas (Holly) and Jonathan (Julie), along with grandchildren Kevin, Matthew, Sadie, and Nora, all of Atlanta.
Sympathies
… To the family of Julian Moss, who passed away Wednesday, July 20th at the age of 88. He is survived by his five children and longtime companion Diane Boyd. Graveside funeral services were held July 22nd at The Temple’s section of Evergreen Cemetery. … To the family of Frank Colb, who passed away Sunday, July 24th. He is survived by his daughter Gloria Einstein and his son-in-law William Zoske. Funeral services took place, July 25th in Israel. Contributions in Frank Colb’s memory may be directed to American Red Magen David for Israel (ARMDI) or to River Garden Senior Services. … To the family of Jay Diamond, who passed away Monday, July 25th at the age of 82. He is survived by his wife Ellen, daughter Sheri (Marc) Litt and grandchildren Alex and Michael. Funeral services were held July 28th at the Ponte Vedra Valley Cemetery. The family requests that donations in memory of Jay Diamond be made to the National Kidney Foundation, Juvenile Diabetes Foundation or The Temple. … To the family of Shirley Koss Metlin, who passed away Tuesday, July 19th in Pittsburgh, Pa. She is survived by her children Paul (Jill) Metlin and Lisie (Jeff) Lipsitz, grandchildren Shaun, Jarod and Jennifer and great grandchildren Corey, Tyler and Hailey. Shivah was held Aug. 3rd and 4th at the home of Paul and Jill Metlin in Jacksonville. The family requests that donations in memory of Shirley
Koss Metlin be made to Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple). … To the family of Jacksonville Jewish Center member Marsha Berdit, who passed away Monday, Aug. 1st at the age of 88. She is survived by her children Charles (Susan) Berdit, Philip Berdit, Faye Berdit, and Ruth Jones, five grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Aug. 4th at New Center Cemetery in Jacksonville. Contributions in Marsha Berdit’s memory may be directed to Heartland Hospice Services of Jacksonville or to the Alzheimer’s Association. … To the family of Gerald Sohn, who passed away Sunday, Aug. 14th at the age of 84. He is survived by his wife Phyllis Sohn. A graveside funeral service was held Aug. 19th at Oaklawn Cemetery in Jacksonville. The family requests that donations in memory of Gerald Sohn be made to The Temple. … To the family of Irwin Gendzier, who passed away, Wednesday, Aug. 17th at the age of 93. He is survived by his wife Alois, children Susan (Jerry) Sternstein, Larry (Debby) Gendzier, and Dorothy (Mark) Slepikas, grandchildren Erin, Risa, Lauren, and Danny, in addition to a sister Sonya Lasris. Graveside funeral services were held Aug. 18th at the New Center Cemetery in Jacksonville. Contributions in Irwin Gendzier’s memory may be directed to the Jacksonville Jewish Center or to River Garden Senior Services. … To the family of Anna Barbara Anderson Dittus, who passed away Thursday, Aug. 18th. She is survived by her son, Eric Dittus. Shivah was held Aug. 25th in the Temple Chapel and the family requests that donations in her memory be made to The Temple. … To the family of Jacksonville Jewish Center member Edward Baker, who passed away Thursday, Aug. 18th at the age of 71. He is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth Baker Brite (Mark Brite), grandchildren Benjamin Brite and Roxanne Brite, brothers Marvin (Carol) Baker and David (Betsy) Baker, as well as their children and grandchildren. A graveside funeral service was held Aug. 22nd at the New Center Cemetery in Jacksonville. Contributions in Edward Baker’s memory may be directed to River Garden Hebrew Home. … To the family of Lilo Frisch, who passed away Friday, Aug. 19th at the age of 92. She is survived by her husband Harry Frisch, children Benjamin P. Frisch (Pat) and E. Karl Frisch, grandchildren Adam (Sierra) Frisch, Mark (Meredith) Frisch, Steven Frisch, Daniel Frisch, Erin Frisch, and great-grandchildren Lyla, Abby, and Hannah Frisch. A graveside funeral was held Aug. 22nd at the Etz Chaim section of Arlington Park Cemetery in Jacksonville. The family requests that donations in memory of Lilo Frisch be made to Etz Chaim Synagogue, River Garden Hebrew Home, or Hadassah.
Classifieds
Maid Services Available Housecleaning, laundry and cooking with reasonable rates. By appointment only. Call 904-387-9293 or leave a message. Ask for Lidia.
To submit an item for life cycles, please email it to jjn@ jewishjacksonville.org. Due date is the 15th of the month.
business card directory
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE
Renowned author list unveiled for 20th annual JCA Jewish Book Festival BY IMAN BYFIELD
Jewish Community Alliance
Each fall, the Jewish Community Alliance presents an annual Jewish Book festival that features a week of literary events for the entire Jacksonville community. From Nov. 1st – 10th, Jacksonville readers will once again converge for the 20th Annual JCA Jewish Book Festival. The festival, whose committee is headed up by JCA Board member and avid reader Nan Rothstein, has announced the selection of authors who will appear to discuss their work. In the past, featured presenters have included bestselling authors, prize winning journalists and noted historians. As usual, this year’s event will include a range of compelling topics that relate to Jewish history and culture. The festival
will include the following authors and books: Tuesday, Nov. 1 – Chanan Tigay, author of The Lost Book of Moses: The Hunt for the World’s Oldest Bible. In this historical account, the son of a renowned Bible scholar narrates his travels to eight countries to
determine if Moses Wilhelm Shapira did, in fact, find the world’s oldest Bible. Thursday, Nov. 3 – Jessica Fechtor, author of Stir. A national bestseller, Stir is an inspiring memoir about how Fechtor’s passion for cooking and baking fueled her miracu-
lous recovery following a brain aneurysm. Sunday, Nov. 6 – Ina Pinkney, author of Ina’s Kitchen: Memories and Recipes from the Breakfast Queen. Pinkney will share her favorite recipes from her 30 years as a Chicago restauranteur with stories about
the milestone moments and challenges she’s faced. Wednesday, Nov. 8 – Jennifer Brown, author of Modern Girls. Brown will discuss her debut novel about a mother and daughter, both pregnant, who wrestle with the limited opportunities and difficult choices facing women in 1930s New York. Thursday, Nov. 10 – Claudia Kalb, author of Andy Warhol Was a Hoarder: Inside the Minds of History’s Great Personalities. Using historical records and interviews with psychiatric experts, Kalb reveals the torments and triumphs of celebrated icons like Abraham Lincoln and Marilyn Monroe. All book festival events are free and open to the entire community. For more information about the authors and their work, visit jcajax.org/bookfest.
Family Fun For Everyone JCA Baptist Wellness Connexion offers programs for the community throughout September
The Jewish Community Alliance will hold its final Family Fun Day of the summer, scheduled for Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 5th from 11 a.m. – 3. The event is free for JCA members, providing a fun-filled afternoon of swimming, games and activities for all ages. / / Photo Credit - Krista Freeman
By Jewish Community Alliance
JCA HAPPENINGS September 2016 Av/Elul 5776
For more information or to register for programs at the JCA, call 904-730-2100 or visit our official website at www.jcajax.org.
Vandroff Art Gallery
From Sept. 1st to 28th, self-taught painter Jeffrey Luque and local photographer Amanda Rosenblatt explore the world of portraiture as inspired by various artists throughout history. The reception for this exhibit is on Sept. 4th from 1 – 3 p.m. From Sept. 29th – Oct. 26th, the Northeast Florida Art Education Association presents a cross-section of work by their members and students. The reception for this exhibit is on Oct. 2nd from 12 – 2 p.m.
Sunday Film Series
On Sunday, Sept. 18th at 2 p.m., see the humorous documentary, Yoo-Hoo, Mrs. Goldberg, which tells the story of actress, screenwriter and producer Gertrude Berg. This event is free to the community. Advance registration is appreciated.
Shabbat Family Dinner
Join other JCA families for a festive Shabbat dinner and celebration with PJ Library, Friday, Sept. 9th from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. This event is open to the community.
The fee is $15 per family and $10 per JCA valued member family. Registration is required by Sept. 7th.
Rosh Hashanah Seder
This special seder ceremony includes a light dinner and all the customs granting success and luck for the coming year. Join us on Sunday, Sept. 25th from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. The fee is $15 per family and $10 per JCA valued member family. Registration is required by Sept. 21st.
Save the Date for Pizza in the Hut
Join us Thursday, Oct. 20th as we carry on the tradition of shaking the lulav and holding the Etrog. A festive family meal will be served. Advance registration required by Oct. 14. This is free to JCA valued members.
Shabbat in the Lobby
Every Friday at 11:35 a.m., join us in the lobby of the JCA as we celebrate the Sabbath with traditional blessings, grape juice and challah. All are invited to attend and participate.
JCA Family Night with the Jax Armada
Have fun with other JCA families at an evening match as we unite to support our local soccer team on Saturday, Sept. 24th at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $17 and transportation is available from the JCA for $7 and $5 for JCA valued members. Reservations required by Sept. 21st.
Beginner Guitar Lessons
Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu
Learn the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and get fit in classes for children and adults on Mondays, Sept. 12th through Oct. 10th. The fee is $90 and $60 for JCA valued members. For information, contact Rio at 904-7302100, ext. 250.
This group lesson class teaches an introduction to singing, guitar, music theory and relevant techniques. Sessions are held Thursdays, Sept. 1st to 22nd from 5:15 – 6 p.m. for youth and 6:15 – 7 p.m. for adults. The fee is $40 and $25 per JCA valued member family. Registration is required by Sept. 8th.
JCA Fencing for Youth and Adults
Youth Studio Art Classes
Tryouts, for ages 8 to 14, are on Monday, Sept. 19th. Girls are at 6 p.m., and boys at 7 p.m. Selected players benefit from quality coaching and a structured training camp before joining a local league. 904-730-2100, ext. 250 for more information.
A beginning art class with instruction in drawing and painting on Thursdays, Sept. 1 to Oct. 20 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. The fee is $240 and $160 for JCA valued members, which includes supplies.
Stroller Fit Moms
Enjoy a great opportunity to bond with your baby in a stroller-based workout that blends Barre Pilates, yoga and power walking. This class is held on Fridays, Sept. 2nd through Nov. 18th and the fee is $165 and $110 for JCA valued members.
The JCA offers fencing classes for youth and adults beginning in September. Contact Rio at 904-730-2100, ext. 250 for more information.
JCA Select Basketball Team Tryouts
Adult Soccer League
League begins on Sunday, Sept. 11th. Form teams of six to eight players for 5-on-5 soccer or register individually or with a friend. Team rosters must be submitted by September 4th, so contact Rio at 904-730-2100, ext. 250 for more information.
JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE 2016-17 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $196,000
The JCA Baptist Wellness Connexion recently celebrated one year of bringing wellness services to JCA members and the Jacksonville community. Throughout the month of September, the Wellness Connexion is offering several educational programs for improved health and wellbeing. Tuesday, Sept. 13th – A Functional Approach to Asthma, Allergy and Sinusitis. Board certified ear, nose and throat surgeon Dr. Paul A. Walker explores common underlying challenges of allergies, asthma and sinusitis as well as functional treatment strategies, including sublingual immunotherapy. This program is free to the entire community. On Thursdays, from Sept. 15th through Oct. 6th – Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation. Learn to relax your body, use your breath to focus your thoughts and create a more positive outlook on life with Dr. Ellen Williams, licensed clinical psychologist. This fourweek program is $40 and $20 for JCA valued members. Monday, Sept. 19th – F.R.A.M.E.: Functional Rebalancing and Mobility Enhancements. Join physical therapist Bruce Cathcart to learn about balance, fall prevention and home safety tips at the Baptist Health AgeWell Center for Senior Health. This event is free to the community. For more information on these and other Wellness Connexion events, visit jcajax.org/wellnessconnexion. JCA members can visit the JCA website to take their Personal Wellness Assessment and schedule a meeting with a JCA Baptist Wellness Coach.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
JEWISH FAMILY and COMMUNITY SERVICES
Briefs
JFCS honors trio of volunteers at annual board social By Jewish Family & Community Services
As JFCS moves into its 100th year of service and the purchase of a new building, it was honored to PJ Library, the award winning recognize three selfless individuals free program for books and at the annual Board Social late last music is open to all famimonth. These three hardworking community members are helplies with Jewish children in Jacksonville. If your children ing to quite literally build JFCS’ bright future and they include, Sid are between the ages of six Ansbacher, Marc Angelo and Lanny months and eight years, they Felder. are eligible. Please sign up Ansbacher is the agency’s now by going to pjlibrary.org/ knowledgeable pro bono attorney, who brings reassurance and levity communities/jacksonville, or calling Whitney Kuvin at 904- to the uncharted journey as he continues the Ansbacher family’s 394-5724. long term commitment to JFCS. His experience and sense of humor shined through during the beginning of JFCS’ property search and will continue through the closing as he provides legal guidance and education in buying the new building to Executive Director Colleen Rodriguez and JFCS leadership. Angelo continues his longstanding commitment as a true Meals4You partner to JFCS in guiding RodriJFCS in partnership with River guez and the agency in identifying
PJ Library
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.
Executive Director Colleen Rodriguez with ‘Volunteers of the Year’ Marc Angelo and Lanny Felder the right building, creation of the right bidding process, and developing the right process for renovating. “I appreciate Marc teaching me a valuable life lesson, which is ‘Don’t worry until there is something to worry about,’ Rodriguez explained. “And he promises to tell me when that time is,” she added. Felder started out as a valuable member on the agency’s finance committee as members quickly
Fellow JFCS ‘Volunteer of the Year’ Sid Ansbacher realized he also has vast knowledge of land and building acquisition. He has been instrumental in ensuring the regulatory compliance while focusing on JFCS’ current and future needs. His calm and experience has been invaluable during this exciting process. Also at the social, Ellen Rosner was recognized for her outstanding leadership of JFCS. Rosner served as Board president from 2014-16. Her guidance and direction has played
Ellen Rosner was recognized for her leadership as president of JFCS from 2014-16 an integral part in the growth and success of JFCS and everyone at the agency is deeply grateful for the service, advice, and sense of personal responsibility all of its volunteers bring to the now century old organization. With partners like Ansbacher, Angelo and Felder, and leaders like Rosner, the organization is consistently reminded of how resourceful and giving the community it works so hard to serve is.
Second Gen Holocaust Max Block Food Pantry’s Survivors Writers’ Work match challenge exceeds shop announces 2016-17 donation goals meeting dates By Jewish Family & Community Services
The Second Generation Holocaust Survivors Writers’ Workshop is once again preparing for another engaging series led by local author Call2Go and WJCT contributor Stacey Call2Go is the transportation Goldring. Both of the daytime and program at JFCS. We work evening Writers’ Workshop sessions will take place at the Jacksonville with Checker Cab and are Jewish Center in the Shorstein happy to schedule rides for Room with catering from Margos Shabbat and Holidays at no Catering. Second Generation Holocharge. We also provide rides caust Survivors Writers’ Workshops for medical appointments are open to the community, so if and quality of life events. Call you would like to get involved or Whitney for more information have questions, please feel free to call Stacey Goldring at 904-739at 904-660-9268. 2970. Daytime Sessions begin at 11:30 a.m. with a light lunch being served while evening sessions start at 6:30 p.m. with a light dinner. The following is a schedule of writers’ workshops for the coming year.
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 904-394-5723.
JFCS Searching for Senior Companions
Jewish Family & Community Services is seeking companions to assist seniors with light housekeeping, meal preparations, errands, and, companionship. The ability to speak Russian speaking is preferred and part time as well as full time positions are available. To be considered for these positions, please complete our online application forms at jfcsjax.org. EOE/AA: including females/minorities/disabled/ veterans. We are a DFWP.
Max Block of blessed memory By Jewish Family & Community Services
Thank you to all of the generous and caring supporters who gave to the Max Block Food Pantry during the Feed A Needy Neighbor (FANN) Match Challenge. The overall goal of $10,000 was not only met, but it was exceeded, which means the entire $10,000
goal will be generously matched by The Block Family Foundation. During the summer months as children are out of school and eating all meals at home, the Max Block Food Pantry helps to close the even greater gap in meeting the needs of struggling families. The Max Block Food Pantry at JFCS depends on the generosity of the amazing community to support each other.
JFCS department of Jewish services welcomes four new members to its team By Jewish Family & Community Services
Patrece Davis - Davis was born and raised in Jacksonville. She graduated from Marymont University in 2005 with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and has Florida Professional Teaching Certificates in Elementary and Exceptional Student Education. She was employed as a teacher with Duval County Public Schools for the past nine years where she taught various grade levels. The last three school years she served as a special education teacher. It has always been a goal of her’s to work with a social services organization that promotes the well-being of children, families
and elders. Davis is happy to be pursuing this new career opportunity as a special education teacher for Jewish Family & Community Services, working at the Martin J Gottlieb Day School. Fred Sacklow - Sacklow moved from Queens, New York to Jacksonville at the end of March. He retired from the New York City Department of Education after working there for more than 30 years as a school social worker. During his employment, he worked at various schools providing student assessment and counseling both with groups and individuals, as well as completing psycho-social assessments with parents. For as
many years Sacklow also worked at a mental health clinic as a staff psychotherapist while maintaining his own part time private practice. He has also been involved in social work professional organizations. Not being quite ready to completely retire, the Big Apple transplant is very happy to be starting at the Martin J Gottlieb Day School as a part time guidance counselor. He enjoys working with young people and with the committed staff who provide for their education and care. Jula Shkurti - Shkurti serves as a Care Manager for Jewish Services as her skills allow her to implement plans to assist older adults and their families with all aspects of aging. She serves individuals and families with empathy and advocates for clients in order to permanently resolve challenges. Shkurti holds a
Bachelors of Social Work from the University of North Florida. Stephanie Goldstein - Goldstein is the Coordinator for JFCS’ new Compassionate Companions for Seniors in-home agency and is excited to be part of this new service. In her new role, Goldstein will hire and match companions to clients interested in in-home care services. She possesses experience assessing clients to help their specific needs and bring out their strengths. A Florida native, she grew up in Tallahassee and recently received her Master’s in Social Work at FAU in Boca Raton. Goldstein was very active at the Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach and worked as a USY and Kadima Advisor during her time in South Florida. She is happy to be in Jacksonville and to be involved in the Jewish community.
JFCS adoption program places 60 kids with forever families By Jewish Family & Community Services
For the 2015-16 fiscal year, The Department of Children and Families set a steep goal, which was to finalize 40 children with their forever families. The numbers are in and the target has been exceeded because as of June 30th the program
successfully placed 60 children with their forever families. Jewish Family & Community Services has been matching adoptive parents with children who need a home for more than 50 years. A dedicated staff is on hand and ready
to help, so if you our someone you know would like to grow their family, while at the same time helping a child in need, contact Laura Evans at 904-394-5747 or email her at levans@jfcsjax.org.
JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES 2016-17 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $279,000
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Ensuring a vibrant future Foundation proudly welcomes four for everyone new members to its board
Imagine if any child in our Jewish community could attend a Jewish day school tuition free or that any child wanting to go to a local Jewish day camp could do so without worrying about camp fees. Furthermore, let’s imagine that all of our seniors regardless of financial ability could live at home or in a caring facility with the proper care and in-home services. Can you imagine if children of all abilities could participate in programs and services with advocates as necessary and that inclusion programs were the norm and not the exception. Doesn’t this sound like the type of community we all want? Conversely, are you able to imagine a community without our vibrant synagogues, or any of our vital agencies or organizations? Those that came before us ensured that these agencies were established and consequently all of our vibrant Jewish organizations and synagogues are here because of generous people that came before us. These individuals raised money through capital campaigns to ensure that generations to come would have the services and programs needed to enrich our Jewish lives, culture heritage, and religious needs. Now, it is time for us to help these agencies to continue to assist our community in the future. How can you ensure that life goes on in Jacksonville’s vibrant Jewish community? It is so difficult to imagine what will be here in 20, 30, or even 50 years from now but, without the foresight and future financial backing of ongoing services, innovative programs could be in jeopardy or never come fruition. The JCF Professional Advisory Committee (PAC), chaired by Mark Kraus, is comprised of financial and estate planning professionals who are here to assist donors and prospective donors in achieving their planned giving goals. Judi Garwood, LUTCF, is a one of our PAC members who is most interested in legacy gifts in support of the Jewish community. “In addition to bequests, transfers of appreciated securities, or outright gifts of cash, you can name JCF the beneficiary of your life insurance policy,” Garwood said. “You may be looking to transfer ownership of a life insurance or initiate a new policy and your gift may entitle you to an income tax deduction and future premium payments may be tax deductible,” she explained. “There are many new types of life insurance available which give us more possibilities.” Here at the JCF, we don’t have crystal ball and we can’t see into
Judi Garwood
MONEY MATTERS By JEFF KLEIN, Executive Director future, but our business model is to secure endowment funds for all of the Jewish agencies, synagogues and Jewish day schools in our area. The JCF is here to ensure that families and individuals can establish their legacy gifts to support the Jewish community during their lifetime and beyond. Endowment funds both large and small will be maintained at the JCF in perpetuity. The way endowment funds are set up, only a small percentage of the total fund is spent in any given year and the program, service, or agency receives a gift forever from your personal fund. This is a wonderful way to make sure that your fund will continue to meet the needs of our community now and in the future. A young married couple recently met with me who were interested in establishing a fund to help their favorite charities. I suggested that they consider an insurance policy because by leveraging their dollars today, sometime in the future their endowment will be huge. The couple has since established a two life policy, where the JCF is the owner and beneficiary of the policy. Because the JCF owns the $250,000 life insurance policy, the annual premium of $1,230 (which will be paid to the Foundation) may be tax deductible. This couple has designated three local charities to be the beneficiaries of their policy and the $250,000 fund will grow in future years, but at a minimum will generate $12,500 per year. Additionally, this couple has earmarked their synagogue dues to be paid in perpetuity and has designated two other programs in the Jewish community to receive funding. One program focusses on needy children who do not have a place for Passover Seders, while the other is dedicated to helping single parent families who may need assistance during Chanukah. The wonderful thing about JCF endowment funds is that they may be tailored to support almost any nonprofit, synagogue, Chabad, or other organization that you may be interested in. They may also be left wide open to provide for those unmet or emerging needs of future generations. To learn more about how you might establish your personalized fund at the JCF please give me a call at 904-394-0720 or send me an email at jeff.klein@ jewishfoundationnefl.org.
Judy Silverman Kim Glasgal
BY JEFF KLEIN
Executive Director jeff.klein@jewishfoundationnefl.org
The JCF is excited to announce that four new members have joined its Board of Directors. Those new members include Kim Glasgal, Mark Kraus, Judy Silverman, and David Vandroff. Each incoming board member has unique personal and professional skills along with superb qualifications which make them an asset to the Foundation Board. Kim Glasgal - A graduate of Cornell University in Computer Science, Glasgal currently serves as the TechnologyAssistant at the Martin J Gottlieb Day School. Additionally she is a board member of member of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and is Campaign Chair of the Galinsky Academy.
Mark Kraus
Mark Kraus - The JCF Professional Advisory Committee (PAC) is comprised of financial and estate planning professionals who are here to assist donors and prospective donors in achieving their planned giving goals. Kraus is the incoming PAC committee chair and is a financial advisor with Innovative Financial Solutions PC, Inc. He looks forward to assisting the Foundation and community members with personal and Foundation financial goals. Judy Silverman – Silverman has held many distinguished roles on the local and national levels including serving on the National Women’s Philanthropy Board of the Jewish Federations of North America. She has also co-chaired the General Assembly of the Jewish Federations of North America. David Vandroff - Born and
David Vandroff
raised in Jacksonville, Vandroff has been with Vandroff Insurance Agency since graduating from the University of Florida in 1983 and has been Principal of the firm since 2000. At the agency, he is responsible for all sales activities and manages its day-to-day operation. Vandroff is married with two daughters and enjoys most outdoor activities, along with reading and travel.
New project manager, Thompson joins JCF
New JCF project manager Laura Thompson Esq.
BY JEFF KLEIN
Executive Director jeff.klein@jewishfoundationnefl.org
The Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida Inc. is pleased to welcome the newest member of its team in Laura Thompson, Esq. As Project Manager, Thompson will be assisting the JCF in a variety of ways including marketing, public relations, and helping to grow the organization. Currently, she is completing her Masters Degree in Nonprofit Management after working as a litigation attorney for the past eight years. Thompson has dedicated countless hours as a volunteer and board member for multiple nonprofit organizations throughout Florida. In her spare time, she enjoys any outdoor activity, is an avid reader, and is a fan of live music and comedy.
JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA 2016-17 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $83,560
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RIVER GARDEN SENIOR SERVICES
RIVER GARDEN 2016-17 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $184,000
Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
community news
Reflections on a recent Jewish women’s renaissance project mission trip to Israel BY SUZIE POLLACK BECKER JWRP Trip Participant
It was with a bright smile, meant to overcompensate for my trepidation, that I got into the car one Sunday morning this past summer and looked at my fouryear-old son and 15-month old daughter in the backseat, then at my husband who was driving, and thought, ‘they’ll be perfectly fine’. I stocked the refrigerator, left lists about everything- feeding, camp schedules, backpacks, medication, emergency contacts, so why was I crying behind my sunglasses the entire way to the airport? Would I make it for over a week apart from them? Was this trip truly worth it? When I first received the JWRP (Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project) application from a friend in the community, I researched the trip and was intrigued. The process of filling out the application, an interview with our city leader from Etz Chaim Synagogue, and the prospect of traveling abroad with a group of 13 women from Jacksonville that I didn’t really know, was bizarre. I am 40-years old and I was attending what had been described to me as
‘Birthright for Moms’ experience. How this trip would impact all of our lives, and our community, couldn’t be predicted. In the end, the talks that we engaged in about parenting, our relationships with our spouses, our responsibility-both independently and collectively-to our community at home and in Israel were both relatable and prolific. The spirit of sisterhood and bonding turned an adventure into a journey of the soul through the partnership of JWRP and Etz Chaim. The most impactful day for me was our trip to Jacksonville’s sister city of Hadera. While there,
we visited the Technoda Technological Education and Science Center, which opened my eyes as an educator. We then visited Neve Michael Children’s Village, which opened my heart and soul as a mother, educator and child of Israel. Neve Michael is the only multidisciplinary children’s home in Israel that also provides shelter and a loving home to more than 300 at risk children. The faces of smiling children who are cared for and loved, after having been subjected to some of the worst personal tragedies in their young
lives, haunted us and promoted an instant plan of action and social consciousness. On our way back to the bus, members of our group were making plans to take up collections of clothing, bedding, and specialty items for children to donate. The mission of JWRP is to change the world starting with women and in a tradition based almost exclusively in a masculine consciousness, we need to promote feminine consciousness. We are preparing to change the world as we focus on our responsibility
as Jewish mothers and wives-to impart the Torah’s teachings on morality and values to our sons and daughters, to know what would be a necessity at a children’s home that extends beyond a check as we reflect on our own families and the family of B’nai Yisrael. With this in mind, the Shabbat of my return, the glow of the candles was a bit brighter, the smell of the challah was a bit sweeter, and the hugs of my children were a bit tighter. I then thought to myself, ‘It does starts with women, but it sure doesn’t end there’.
Have some news you’d like to share?
Whether it’s a milestone achievement accomplished by a friend or family associated with the Jacksonville Jewish community, or simply a story, event or announcement to be shared, drop us a line at jjn@jewishjacksonville.org. You can also contact newspaper editor and Federation communications director Matt Franzblau directly at mattf@jewishjacksonville.or or by calling 904-448-5000, ext. 212. The Jacksonville Jewish News is published 11 times a years, in newspaper form from January to May and then again from August to December, with a Summer Magazine covering the months of June and July. For further information as well as advertising rates, log onto jewishjacksonville.org/news and for back issues go to issuu.com/ jewishnews.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
community news
Jewish St. Johns resident visits Israel on fashion trip
The trip also included a fashion show to check out the latest trends
BY TALIE ZAIFERT Trip participant
Talie Zaifert of St. Johns, Fla., was one of 36 women in the fashion industry who visited Israel this past summer on a trip organized by the Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project or JWRP and sponsored by the Israeli Ministry of Diaspora Affairs. This industry-specific trip was designed to give the women a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Israeli fashion and to allow them to gain inspiration from both the country’s designers and from the Land of Israel itself. JWRP feels it is important to ‘influence the influencers’, strengthen their connection with Israel and inspire them to return home and ‘change the world through Jewish
values’. The founding directors of JWRP believe that ‘If you inspire a woman, you inspire a family’, and ‘If you inspire enough families, you inspire a community’, then ‘If you inspire enough communities, you can change the world’. The 36 delegates, selected from more than 200 applicants, were made up of influential Jewish fashionistas from the United States, Canada, Australia, Estonia, Greece, Panama and South Africa. Zaifert, a merchandise manager and team coach for fashion jewelry company ‘Chloe and Isabel’ was among others in her trade including Annie Raphael, co-owner of the SlavinRaphael wholesale fashion agency in Canada; Dahlia Foroutan, a Hollywood costume designer for shows including ABC’s ‘My Wife & Kids’,
The ladies dressed up to take part in a special fashion photo shoot
the Disney Channel’s ‘Hannah Montana’ and Nickelodeon’s ‘Bella & the Bulldogs’, in addition to Emily Fine, a trend forecaster in New York for top clothing and footwear outlets and Mindy Scheier of New Jersey, who was recently featured in People magazine, after teaming up with Tommy Hilfiger to launch a line of adaptive clothing for children with special needs. During the trip the women got an exclusive look at Israeli designs during a private runway event at Beit Karandagi in Jaffa. Top Israeli fashion designers including Gadi Elimelech, Dorin Frankfurt, Gideon and Karen Oberson, Yaniv Persy, Yaron Minkowsky, Sabina Moiseyev, Liora Taragan and Shani Zimmerman headlined the show produced by Smadar Ganzi.
The group had a tour of Maskit, which is Israel’s first fashion house known worldwide, started by Ruth Dayan, Moshe Dayan’s wife. Maskit was founded in 1954 and shows the origins and evolution of the Israeli fashion industry. The fashion house went bankrupt in the 1990s but was revived in 2013 by Sharon Tal, one of the head designers at Alexander McQueen. “With all the amazing experiences, my favorite was spending Shabbat in Jerusalem, the holiest land in the world,” Zaifert shared. “I also loved connecting with the women who instantly became my sisters,” she added. “The sessions with Lori Palatnik, writer and Jewish educator who has appeared on television and radio, and Adrienne Gold, who was a fixture on
Zaifert at the Dead Sea
Canadian television for almost two decades, as host of her own daily fashion and beauty program, were thought provoking and life changing.” The itinerary also included a Tel Aviv style and fashion boutique tour, a visit to the Fashion & Tech co-working space and the WMN (Women Lead Ventures) coworking space in Tel Aviv, as well as numerous jewelry and fashion studios in Jerusalem. Shopping was built into every stop, which all the fashion loving women most definitely appreciated. The ladies also traveled from Tel Aviv to the Dead Sea and Masada in the Judean Desert to Jerusalem to Safed (Tzfat) in the north, where they had a photo shoot modeling designer jewelry and textiles.
Spend Saturday night at the Movies and at the Temple with Rabbi Rick Shapiro By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
Rabbi Rick Shapiro, Interim Senior Rabbi at The Temple, is hosting an exploration of the Jewish experience in America as portrayed in feature films. The monthly series begins Saturday, Sept. 10th at 7 p.m. with ‘The Frisco Kid’, starring Gene Wilder
as Rabbi Avram Belinsky and Harrison Ford as a compassionate train and bank robber named Tommy Lillus. Rabbi Belinsky lands in Philadelphia on his way to San Francisco, where he has been called to be the congregation’s first Rabbi. Quickly relieved of his belongings by a group of con artists, Avram optimistically
sets out alone on foot toward the Wild West. The film is a serious yet comedic tour de force of his journey. Each film in this series is followed by a discussion led by Rabbi Shapiro. Everyone is welcome to attend and of course, popcorn will be served, so mark your calendar for Oct. 8th for the next film, when Hester Street will be shown and discussed.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016
www.jewishjacksonville.org
federation news
Executive Director’s Message: Reflections on Israel
President Sandy Zimmerman, rGEN Director Ariel Frechtman and Executive Director Alan Margolies
BY ALAN MARGOLIES
Jewish Federation of Jacksonville alanm@jewishjacksonville.org
Each time we have the opportunity to be in Israel on a Jewish Federation experience, I think it’s safe to say that it is a wonderful and meaningful time for everyone. Many of you may be aware that our national organization, the Jewish Federations of North America, for the third year running sponsored a mission to Israel based on our Jacksonville model. A total of 60 volunteers and professionals from 20 communities across the continent shared a week in Israel, learning about the impact of our dollars and how to improve our fundraising abilities. While abroad, we had the chance to meet with a woman named Liat,
Ariel Frechtman and Sandy Zimmerman with collegues after a productive business lunch
who is an Ethiopian Jewish Israeli, now 37 years of age. She arrived in Israel with her parents when she was four and has been confronted with all of the challenges that Ethiopian Jewry faces, but now actually works for the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee or JDC, the same organization which helped her immigrate to her new home more than three decades ago. In addition to Liat’s inspiring story, we also met with young people who have made Aliyah from France because they no longer feel safe living a Jewish life in Paris. An employee for the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI), who is responsible for the most sensitive Aliyah of rescue from troubled countries such as Venezuela, Iran, Yemen and Turkey showed us that just two years into the French Jews’ Aliyah, they are now experiencing the joys they had
Frechtman, Zimmerman and Margolies enjoy a beautiful view with other mission participants
dreamed of prior to making this courageous move. Having these opportunities to see how exactly our Federation work helps provide freedom to so many of our fellow Jews, is so incredibly inspiring. Along with these soul stirring experiences, there were also plenty of opportunities to capture the spirit of Israel, taking part in Kabbalat services with hundreds of Israelis, Friday nights prior to Shabbat in both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, with the Mediterranean Sea as backdrop in Tel Aviv and at wonderful First Station in Jerusalem. It is also now possible to enjoy Segway and bicycle tours all over the country, which helped in exploring all of the nooks and crannies of the Old City in Jerusalem. The nightlife was also something to behold as the shuk at Mehane Yehudah in Jerusalem comes alive
The Land - Poem by Yitzhak Avraham A gentle breeze at morning’s dawn Presents the light of another day For no matter who you are Or where you are from, You know that you are home… At times it is hard to find the words to say How much we love this land, our land With a myriad of tastes and sounds It is the uniqueness of the people Making this the greatest place we have found There are seemingly endless beaches, And the sand brushing up against the sundrenched sea The chaos of the market place With spices from so many countries We have relished falafel, humus and shawarma too, Wine from vineyards so much a part of history And the way Shabbat is ushered in Letting us know that here we are truly free At times we stand in total awe,
Modern miracles abound… With the courage of those choosing to live here Defending a right to be… And so much of what’s experienced is sacred That while spirits soar, Our feet are planted firmly on the ground So we see that indeed emotions rise, With a diversity of paths one might choose to believe For as we learned from “The Little Prince”… It is only with the heart That one can truly see So yes…Each time that we are here We tap into a sense of who we really are, And an extraordinary depth of how we feel… Perhaps causing us to say a special prayer… For only time will tell If even with so many years of hatred Even the deepest wounds might
Recounting old Jewish Superstitions and Stories
Rabbi Dov Kentof and his wife Alina mesmerized the August Jewish Java group of 60 newcomers and locals with his wonderful stories.
heal… Allowing peace to finds its way To the blessed land of Israel. Yitzhak Avraham, a freelance writer, has previously appeared in the Jacksonville Jewish News writing of his experiences with Israeli wineries and his visits to the concentration camps in Poland
on Thursday evenings with dancing at bars taking place late into the night and artists happily creating their work on Saturdays after Shabbat. During the day, there are plenty of restaurants, kosher and non-kosher to sample from, which is easy to see why Israel is making its mark on the international culinary scene. There are also more than 300 wineries across the nation to sample from where some of the finest kosher and non kosher wine is being produced. In Tel Aviv at the Levinsky Market, many countries from the middle east offered a way to sample delectable food and drink from the region. Of course, no trip to Israel would be complete without stops at emotional and historically meaningful sites such as the Kotel (Western Wall), Yad Vashem and Massada, in addition to the awe and wonder
Mission co-chair Alison Goldstein Lebovitz addresses the crowd the amazing Dead Sea provides. The Federation is planning another very special journey to Israel in 2018, but this will be a once in a lifetime experience, as it will coincide with our homeland’s 70th birthday. The trip is scheduled for April 15- 24, 2018 and we are now taking deposits of $500 per person to guarantee space on this mission. If you have any questions, please call me at 904-448 5000, ext 207 or send me an e-mail at alanm@ jewishjacksonville.org. This will no doubt be an exceptional trip at an important time as Israel always offers us so much in the way of awesome inspiration. Please see the advertisement on the back page of this month’s Jacksonville Jewish News to learn more about our ‘Celebrate Israel at 70 Journey’ 2018.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2016