Jacksonville Jewish News - December 2017 by JewishLife Magazine

REGAINING MOMENTUM RETREAT MEET & GREET ON A TRIP TO ISRAEL WITH ISRAELIS IN TENNESSEE

ANNE FRANK’S STEPSISTER COMING TO UNF TO SPEAK Southside Chabad organizes special event which will take place in Page 4 March 2018

A half-dozen men from Jax go on recent JWRP trip Page 16

Trio of Jax women attend leadership conference held in Nashville Page 22

A publication of

December 2017

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JaxJewishTV • Volume 30, Number 6 • 36 pages

Jamie Geller to Federation’s annual Champagne Brunch to headline Lion of honor Israel at 70 with a nod to Herzl and Meir Judah and Major BY ERIN COHEN Although Herzl died more than 40 years before the establishment of the State of Israel, he was a tireless organizer, propagandist, Gifts event in Jan. and diplomat who had much to do with BY ERIN COHEN

Women’s Division Director ecohen@jewishjacksonville.org

The Jewish Federation of Jacksonville continues the recognition and festivities in honor of Israel’s 70th birthday year with its annual Women’s Division Champagne The Jewish Federation Brunch on Sunday, Jan. 7, at 10 a.m., inside of Jacksonville invites Maggiano’s at the St. Johns Town Center. the Lions of Judah and all major donors to experiThe community will host two very signifience the ‘Joy of Kosher’ cant and inspirational figures in Israel’s histhis year for a combined tory, Theodore Herzl and Golda Meir. The event featuring Chef Jamie authentic portrayal of these remarkable inGeller. The event will dividuals will be played by Michael Lifshitz be on Saturday evening, Queen of Kosher and Gail Byer, who will take us through Jan. 20 at the home of Jamie Geller significant speeches and moments in Israel’s Rebekah and Andrew history as we learn more about Herzl and Selevan. The program, which will include Meir and how they left their permanent dinner and a cooking demonstration will begin mark on Israel’s creation and development. at 7 p.m. There will be a lot to celebrate as we Theodore Herzl was born on May 2, continue the year-long festivities recogniz1860, in Budapest, Hungary, and died on ing Israel’s 70th birthday, and the menu for July 3, 1904. He is considered the founder the evening will reﬂect the occasion, having a modern, contemporary, Israeli ﬂare, featur- of the political form of Zionism, a moveing some new and interesting dishes from the country. This event is co-chaired by Sue Levine, Women’s Division Lion of Judah Chair and Jen Plotkin Major Gifts Chair and is in support of the Federation 2018 Annual Campaign, and a minimum contribution of $5,000 is required to attend. By Jewish Federation of Jacksonville Women’s Division Director erinc@jewishjacksonville.org

Golda Meir

Theodore Herzl

ment to establish a Jewish homeland. His pamphlet, ‘The Jewish State’ (1896), is considered one of the most important texts of early Zionism in which Herzl envisioned the founding of an independent Jewish state in the 20th century. He organized a world congress of Zionists that met in Basel, Switzerland, in August 1897 and became the first president of the World Zionist Organization established by the congress.

making Zionism into a political movement of worldwide significance. Golda Meir was best known as the fourth Prime Minister of Israel and the first woman to hold the title. Meir was an Israeli politician born on May 3, 1898, in Kiev, Russia. She and her family immigrated to Milwaukee, Wis. where she became an active Zionist. From the 1940s-’60s, Meir worked for the Israeli government in various roles including as Minister of Labor and Foreign Minister. In 1969, party factions appointed her as the country’s fourth Prime Minister, thereby also becoming the world’s third woman with that title. She died in Jerusalem on Dec. 8, 1978. The brunch and program is $36 to attend and in honor of Israel’s 70th birthday, a minimum pledge of $70 to the Annual

See CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH, p. 31

Ben Gurion’s grandson gives colorful narrative of Israel’s creation at Federation’s campaign kickoﬀ

See QUEEN OF KOSHER, p. 30

Federation launches special Give2gether campaign

By Jewish Federation of Jacksonville

Last month, the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville launched a special online giving campaign called give2gether, which is a unique fundraising platform that is both easy to share and easy to use. This campaign is an incredible opportunity for Federation, it’s partners and donors to spread the word of its mission and annual campaign efforts beyond Northeast Florida and to the global community that it serves.

8505 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32217

Jewish Federation of Jacksonville

Published Monthly POSTMASTER PLEASE DELIVER BY DEC. 1ST

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

See GIVE2GETHER, p. 31

Alon Ben Gurion, grandson of first Israeli Prime Minister David Ben Gurion, highlighted the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville’s annual campaign kickoff last month sponsored by Gray-Robinson. Held at Etz Chaim Synagogue, Ben Gurion took to the podium after an evening that featured drinks and dessert, in addition to an inspirational video spotlighting Federation’s work at home and abroad. Community leaders Haley Trager and Hal Resnick were also honored as Trager was given the Ilene Sari Selevan Young Leadership Award, and Alon Ben Gurion at Etz Chaim Synagogue Resnick (of blessed memory) was given the Joe P. Safer Community Service Award. Emma Pulley, Ben Gurion, who grew up in Israel and Shylie Bannon, now lives in the U.S., gave a captivating narJennifer Plotkin, rative about the creation of the world’s only Rich Plotkin and Jewish state, much of which his grandfather Allison Jacobs played an integral role. From conceptualization in the 1920s to declaration on May 14, 1948. The Prime Minister’s grandson also Photos by read the portion of a now famous 1937 letLarry Tallis ter that his grandfather wrote to his father (Armos), about the establishment of a See BEN GURION KICKOFF , p. 30

Shlicha Shelly Shalev with Ben Gurion

JFCS celebrates dedication of its new Southside building and Holocaust memorial gallery Photos by Larry Tallis

By Jewish Family & Community Services

Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS) recently celebrated the grand opening of its new Southside headquarters, the Alan J. Taffet Building, with a ceremony attended by approximately 300 community members. The celebration included a ribbon cutting and tours of the new building which features the Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery. The gallery is the only Holocaust memorial between Miami and Atlanta and will host rotating exhibitions to help educate the community. The dedication ceremony also honored the nonprofit’s 100 years of service with a commemorative time capsule. Diverse community members, including a JFCS foster care child and a Holocaust survivor, added mementos to the capsule to represent the nonprofit’s areas of community service. The new 30,000-square-foot headquarters provides space for the nonprofit’s range of

More than 300 attended the ofﬁcial dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony on Oct. 29th.

social services and will house a majority of the agency’s staff. “The Alan J. Taffet Building will be able to support the many ways we’ve evolved to help our community over the past 100 years,” said JFCS CEO Colleen Rodriguez.

See JFCS NEW BUILDING, p. 6

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

opinion and cartoons JJN’s Rabbinically Speaking: A lesson that Chanukah teaches us BY RABBI JOEL FOX

First Congregation Sons of Israel

As Chanukah draws near, we all look forward to the typical customs and foods we love – the dreidels, Chanukah gelt, sufganiyot, and latkes of course. But how many of us know what exactly we are celebrating? What is the lesson to be learned from this beloved holiday? How can we make all of this meaningful in the 21st century? We are celebrating the victory of the Hasmoneans during the Maccabean revolt over the Greek-Syrian oppressors that occurred more than 2,000 years ago. The Greeks enforced many restrictions on the Jewish people and this victory allowed the Second Temple in Jerusalem to be rededicated. Jewish homes and synagogues all over the world dedicate and celebrate this year after year. The celebration demonstrates the core of Jewish belief, which is that of one’s rights, ideals and justice. We are celebrating the triumph of a small group of resilient fighters over a powerful army of many. During Chanukah, we say a special prayer three times a day. That prayer, Al Hanisim (all the miracles), is repeated morning, afternoon and evening to emphasis this message. So here is something to think about: What is the difference between what happened

during Chanukah and the exodus from Egypt? What makes Chanukah different from the fight against the Babylonians who destroyed the first temple? The fact is that the Jewish People have had many enemies throughout our history, but none as formidable as ancient Greek culture was. Others relied on brute strength and might, but the ancient Greeks were different. They were an intellectual people and admired beauty, having a unique interpretation of what was going on in their world. The Greeks were gifted in music, learning, theatre and art and their advanced culture attracted and enticed the Jewish people, and many felt compelled to participate. In a sense this was the hardest fight that Judaism has ever had. Jews had a different set of morals and values for themselves. They were monotheistic and the Greeks believed in many deities. But as much as the Jewish people were attracted to the enticing culture, they knew there was a difference. Judaism introduced a moral coordinate that the Greeks did not have. Judaic teachings say that your personal conduct has an influence on what happens in the world. Our world is not only about beauty, but about ethics as well. So all of the other cultures were not a cultural threat the way the ancient Greeks were, not the Egyptians, or even the

RABBINICALLY SPEAKING Babylonians. So here we are today still recognizing the feat of the Maccabees over the ancient Greeks and the question is, ‘how is this all relevant today? The Ancient Greeks despised the Jews that would not assimilate because they did not participate in their way of life. They were intolerant because the Jewish people had the inner will to separate themselves and be different. To our great dismay, these attitudes continue today and we as modern Jews face the same ancient problems. There is still intolerance of Jew-

ish values and beliefs. Who would have thought that after the Second World War, when the entire world seemed to have been conscious of the brutality against the Jewish people, that there is a resurgence of anti-Semitism all over the world. Fortunately, in this century there is one enormous difference. Today there is the State of a Israel, a homeland and place where all Jews everywhere are welcome and have a place to go to where they belong. It is a country where morals, values, acceptance and tolerance is valued. This year, as we kindle the Chanukah candles, we pray and hope that the light will be in abundance and we ask that the radiance and luster shed itself upon each and every one of us throughout the entire year. May we all enjoy our time together with family and friends, sharing the beautiful traditions and customs of this joyous holiday. Happy Chanukah! Rabbi Joel Fox, also a cantor, has engaged congregations and audiences across the nation for more than two decades. Rabbi Fox grew up in Dallas, Texas in an enthusiastic home filled with a love of Judaism

and music. In his youth, he demonstrated a great deal of interest in music and singing. Even as a young child, he was performing in theater groups, playing the piano, and participating in synagogue choir. After completing his studies at the Rubin Academy of Music in Jerusalem, Rabbi Fox attended the Israel Institute of Cantorial Art where he learned with internationally known cantors such as Naftali Hershtik, Eli Jaffe and Moshe Stern. From 198992, Rabbi Fox served in the Israel Defense Force as a member of their acclaimed Rabbinical Army Choir. Following his service, Rabbi Fox moved back to the United States and served as Hazzan at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Rabbi Fox is a proud member of the Cantors Assembly, the largest body of Hazzanim in the world. He often leads services at First Congregation Sons of Israel in St. Augustine as part of their Visiting Rabbi Series. Rabbi Fox, his wife Tali, and their children Arianna, Daniella and Michael make their home in Rockledge, Fla.

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

The Shlicha Corner: Remembering the many miracles of the season

BY SHELLY SHALEV

number of reasons, Maccabees’s Hebrew letters are the following:

This month we are celebrating the festival of lights, most delicious sufganiot (traditional holiday donuts) and the oil associated miracle holiday of Chanukah. This holiday is one of the two holidays that were added on after the Torah with the other one being Purim. Chanukah is a real favorite to celebrate in Israel with the amazing sent of sufganiot and levivot all around the streets with different frosting such as jam, chocolate and even halva-oh so delicious! The victory of the Macabim (Maccabees) over the Greeks will always be reminisced as one of the greatest battles of Jewish history and an inspiration to us all for a

They stand for “who is like you in the gods oh god all mighty” which if you are the average Israeli soccer fan then you most likely compare Macabi Tel-Aviv soccer group to a higher entity (think of your favorite football player or team to understand). Also, the Maccabees win over Antiochus’s regime is so meaningful because it celebrates two kinds of miracles. One is the military victory of the vastly outnumbered Jews against the Greeks, and two is the spiritual victory of Jewish values over those of the Greeks. There is a moral here and that is that we are great at winning against all odds.

Community Shlicha jaxshlicha@jewishjacksonville.org

In Israel, Chanukah is felt in every place you go, as the customs are lighting the menorah and eating a sufgania, or two, or three. We then get together, say the prayer, sing the songs and connect through this Jewish victory. We of course have a lot to learn from Help Federation raise $10,000 in 30 days by going to http://bit.ly/2iaUcUk these days because the Greeks did not believe in the existence of a god and sought to change us ‘mityavnim’ who were the ones that were forced to leave Judaism for Greek customs and culture. So many times other powerAdvertising Representatives Barbara Nykerk • 904.733.4179 • 904.923-3205 ful people had tried to change us Eta Perras • 904.629.0466 throughout history, but we have the strength of the Maccabees and Editor & Communications Director we can overcome everything by Matt Franzblau • mattf@jewishjacksonville.org connecting together and shining Communications Committee a light upon the world we live in. Jon Israel, Chair I wish you and your loved ones a Shirley Bielski happy and tasty Chanukah! Helen Hill

Dry Bones Cartoons by Yaakov Kirschen

Michele Katz Joan Levin Andrea Mail Rachel Morgenthal Andrew Ocean Marsha Pollock

Federation President Ken Jacobs Federation Executive Director Alan Margolies 8505 San Jose Blvd. • Jacksonville, FL 32217 The Jacksonville Jewish News is published monthly. All submitted content becomes the property of the Jacksonville Jewish News. Announcements and opinions contained in these pages are published as a service to the community and do not necessarily represent the views of the Jacksonville Jewish News or its publisher, the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. The Jacksonville Jewish News is not responsible for the Kashruth of any product advertised. Copy due dates: All news, photographs, etc., must be received by the 6th of each month, and sent to jjn@jewishjacksonville.org. Ad deadlines: All ads must be received by the 15th of each month and sent to jjn@jewishjacksonville.org in .pdf format. Editorial support: Donna O’Steen, Erin Cohen, Natalie McElwee, Val Battini, Emma Pulley, Alan Margolies, Andrew Ocean

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

community news

Anne Frank’s stepsister coming to UNF and Chabad to speak By Chabad of the Southside

On Wednesday, March 7, Chabad of the Southside and UNF will proudly present a historic evening with Anne Frank’s childhood friend and stepsister, Mrs. Eva Schloss, who will share her experiences with Frank, including accounts of the publishing of Anne’s famed diary. Held at the University of North Florida, University President John Delaney will interview Mrs. Schloss on stage. “We are beyond thrilled to

host Mrs. Schloss for this historic evening because this is the last generation of youth who will have the opportunity to meet with survivors of the Holocaust, let alone with Anne Frank’s stepsister,” said Chana Novack, who together with Rabbi Shmuli Novack direct Chabad of Southside and UNF “We are so grateful to Mr. Delaney for his participation.” The event is free and open to the entire community. Tickets and sponsorships will soon be available. For more information, call Chana or Shmuli Anne Frank’s step-sister Eva Schloss Novack at 904-646-4434.

Jewish Genealogy Society of NE Fla. to hold ﬁrst meeting, Dec. 6th By Jewish Genealogy Society of Northeast Florida

Are you interested in learning more about your family’s history? Maybe your parents or grandparents didn’t talk much about their lives, but you may be able to find records (or relatives you didn’t know you had) to help put the pieces together thanks to a new Jewish genealogy group that’s forming here in Jacksonville. The group known as the Genealogy Society of Northeast Florida will hold its first meeting, Wednesday, Dec. 6, at River Garden Hebrew Home in the Cohen Auditorium Senior Services. The meet-

ing starts at 6 p.m., but you are encouraged to come early, as an informal ‘Dutch treat’ dinner will be served at 5 p.m., where attendees will get to meet other amateur genealogists. Those interested in learning more about how DNA might help their search or experienced researchers who would like to hear from others about their success in Jewish genealogy are welcome to attend and share their expertise finding the loose branches on their family tree. So whether you’re a beginner just starting to ask questions about your ancestors or you’ve been working at this for a long time, come join others

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: • Jewish Comm. Foundation of • Alhambra Theatre (p. 17) NE Fla. (p. 25) • Athens Cafe (p. 8) • Jewish Federation of • B&C Financial (p. 19) Jacksonville (p. 36) • Beachview Rentals (p. 11) • Jewish Federations of North • Beirut Restaurant (p. 32) America (p. 28) • The Bolles School (p. 33) • Larry Tallis Photo (p. 22) • Bob Ham Eyewear (p. 11) • Margo’s Catering (p. 12) • Brandon Pest (p. 12) • Mensch Express (p. 29) • Chabad’s Menorah • Memorial Emergency (p. 14) Workshop (p. 18) • NE Fla. Conservatory (p. 23) • Civic Orchestra Jax (p. 4) • Pediatric Dentistry (p. 29) • Dignity Memorial (p. 21) • Publix (p. 20) • DuBow Preschool (p. 2) • River Garden (p. 23) • Erica Jolles Round Table • rGEN Jax (p. 31) Realty (p. 29) • Stein Mart (p. 8) • Hala’s Mideast Market & • Shalom Jax (p. 17) Eatery (p. 10) • Super Sunday 2018 (p. 5) • Harbor Chase (p. 15) • The Tax Man (p. 29) • Impressions (p. 29) • UF Proton Therapy (p. 34) • Innovative Financial • Wajsman Home Team Solutions (p. 29) Realty (p. 7) • Israel Partnership (p. 22, 30) • Watercrest San Jose (p. 34) • Jacksonville Jewish Center • Whole Foods (p. 35) (p. 2, 16) • Women’s Division (p. 36) • Jax Jewish News (p. 22) For your advertising needs, please contact advertising sales reps Barbara Nykerk at 904-733-4179 or or Eta Perras at 904-629-0466.

Dec. 2017 - Kislev/Tevet 5778 who share a similar interest in Jewish ancestry as there will be many interesting stories to tell and much to learn from each other. For more information like and join the group’s official Facebook group called ‘Jewish Genealogy Society of Northeast Florida’ or email Marla Westberg at marla@ westbergfl.com and Isabel Balotin at isabelbalotin@yahoo.com.

Adult Education............... p. 33 Business Directory.......... p. 29 Chabad News .................. p. 19 Chanukah Directory........ p. 18 Chanukah News.............. p. 12 Community News........... p. 4-8 Education .................... p. 9-11 Fed News .......p. 22-23, 30-32

JCA ..................................p. 24 JCF.................................... p. 25 JFCS ................................ p. 26 Lifecycles ......................... p. 29 Opinion & Cartoons ........... P. 3 River Garden ....................p. 27 Synagogue News .......p. 13-17 Top Stories..........................p. 1

Read archived issues online at

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This month in JJN History Dec. 1995

22-years ago this month the JJN’s front cover had on it articles and information on the Federation’s Major Gifts Dinner as well as all things related to the Festival of Lights, including the JCA’s annual Chanukah celebration. The Jacksonville Jewish News also ran an article from the JTA on the tragic assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, which The December 1995 edition of the Jacktook place a month prior. sonville Jewish featured a story from the JTA on the tragic assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

community news

Kineret Weiss

A Woman in Action

ince moving to Jacksonville last year from Israel, Kineret Weiss has made an impact on the Jacksonville Jewish Community like none other. She is a founding member and the Principal for the ﬁrst Jewish High School in all of Northeast Florida, known as Jacksonville Torah High School, which opened its doors in August and is off to an incredible start. Similar to other progressive educational institutions, as well as traditional educational

schools, JTHS is based on a Hybrid Curriculum. This means that students participate in both live and online learning classes all of which Weiss oversees. Kineret seems to spend nearly all of her time working at the high school. She is so amazingly dedicated it is extraordinary. When she isn’t with her students, she is with her own kids and family as she is a mother of six and is married to Etz Chaim and Torah Academy of Jacksonville’s Rabbi Ephriam Weiss.

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.

2017 Dec. Violinist Boris Savchuck to perform at a Ponte Vedra dinner Dec. 10 BY MASHA HLEAP

Event Chef and Organizer

On Sunday, Dec. 10, virtuoso and violinist Boris Savchuck will perform during a unique evening at the Sawgrass Marriott in Ponte Vedra. The event, which will begin at 4 p.m. with a one-hour cocktail reception, will continue until 8 p.m. with a gourmet Latin dinner prepared by Colombian Jewish born Chef Masha. During dinner, Savchuck, who has put together a special playlist for the occasion, will perform for diners and their guests. Tickets to this event

are $45 per person and there is a limited seating of 40 people. To reserve your spot by Dec. 4, call 770-833-7471. Major credit cards will be accepted. Savchuck was born in the Ukraine where he began studying music at age six. He is classically trained and plays viola and violin. He immigrated with his family to Israel in 1990 and lives near the town of Ashdod. As an Israeli performance and recording artist, he is renowned for his world music that lights up your soul including Klezmer, romantic and Latin mu-

Jax Jewish Singles to go to Clark’s Fish Camp

BY FRANCINE SMITH Jax Jewish Singles

It’s a festival of lights year round at Clark’s Fish Camp, and it’s now time to support this local restaurant that suffered greatly from Hurricane Irma. They reopened in November and are ready to once again serve the community great food. Clark’s Fish Camp offers a full menu of quality seafood, giant prime rib, and chicken in a rustic dining setting. For date and time information, email francine.smith @comcast.net or call her at 904-221-8061.

Hero’s Eatery to hold an Israeli Chanukah party BY SHELLY SHALEV Community Shlicha

Violinist Boris Savchuck

sic, classical and traditional Jewish music rooted in eastern European culture. Savchuck has produced seven Jewish Music CDs in Israel and three of various genres in the U.S.

All of Jacksonville’s Israeli community is invited to come to Hero’s Israel’ style Chanukah party scheduled for 8 p.m., on Saturday Dec. 16. There will be a ‘Hafla’- an event filled with delicious sufganiot, Israeli beer and fun music. This will be a great opportunity to meet fellow Israelis and experience a beautiful first night of Chanukah together. Hero’s Eatery is Jacksonville’s only kosher restaurant and is located at 12276 San

Jose Blvd #709 in Mandarin. A big thank you to event sponsor Moshe Ohayon of Knockout Pest Elimination. For more information or to RSVP, please call Community Shlicha Shelly Shalev at 904-4485000, ext. 1210

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

community news JFCS New Building Continued from pg. 1 “No one walks through our doors with just one challenge, and our new headquarters is designed

so that we can assist people more comprehensively, offering them

the tools they need to help themselves,” Rodriguez added. The new building was made possible with the help of the ongoing Centennial Celebration capital campaign. The campaign, with a goal of $6 million, will aid JFCS in its mission of serving First Coast families of all races, religions and backgrounds. Lev and Ella Ladyzhinski, Alla Kurlat, Max Schekhter, Leonid Arbitman

Harry Frisch and Ina Taffet

Perry and Charles Mibab look at the photo exhibit together.

Melissa Jones, Laurie DuBow, Linda DuBow and Ina Taffet

More than 200 attend this year’s multigenerational Challah bake

BY ALLISON JACOBS Challah Bake Participant

A wonderful evening was had by all in attendance at the second annual Multi-Generational Challah Bake in late October as more than 200 women joined together in spirituality, friendship, education, and fun at Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple). Not only did the women learn the significance of Challah making, but all over the world, likeminded women were doing the same thing at the exact same time for the Shabbas Project connected with

the various Mega Challah Bakes. The ritual of Challah making is a mitzvah, and it doesn’t matter if you braid it three or six times, as long as it is made with love. Dini Scharfstein of Chabad of S. Johns, explained to the group the why and the how of creating a mitzvah each week. The women also engaged in song and dance with Etz Chaim’s Devora Feigenbaum and Ita Rabinowitz at the helm. Everyone was up clapping and dancing around the room. New this year were the Challah Doctors at each table to assist with the braiding of the dough,

led by Mandarin Chabad’s Rivke Kahanov. Each shared their expert techniques with the table and helped in the braiding of the beautiful challahs. By the end of the night, new friendships were formed and everyone couldn’t wait until next year. “It was a fun evening making challah with so many Jewish women from all across our community,” said Sue Nicotra. “The organizing team did a wonderful job preparing everything we needed to help make it easy, and we were able to socialize with old and new friends as we learned

Israeli chef arrives in Jacksonville to open up new Kosher catering business

how to prepare fresh challah.” The committee would like to thank all of the women who attended, in addition to the Gold Sponsors, the Silver Sponsors, and The Corporate Sponsors. A big thanks also goes out to The Temple for hosting this mega event and the sisterhoods of Beth El The Beaches, the Temple, the Jacksonville Jewish Center, Etz Chaim Synagogue, Chabad of Northeast Florida, and Talie Zaifert with Chloe and Isabel for donating door prizes. Special thank you goes to Olive my Pickle and Sweeta by Ita for provid-

ing some snacks for the evening and a huge shout out goes to the students at the Jacksonville’s Torah High School for helping to set up. The committee consisted of women from partner agencies around the city, including Andrea Mail, Tammy Shumer, Sylvia Jaffe, Christy Rosen, Henny Fisch, Devora Feigenbaum, Rivke Kahanov, Caren Appel, and Allison Jacobs, and was guided with love by Rabbi Feigenbaum. If you would like to help out for next year, please contact Rabbi Feigenbaum at 904262-3565, ext 5 or via jaxmegachallahbake@gmail.com.

Jewish Business Network of Jax’s November meeting headlined by legacy creator By Jewish Business Network of Jacksonville

BY RICKI BEN SIMON Gili’s Kitchen

A new Kosher chef has come to Jacksonville from Israel to open up a catering business in Mandarin. Gili Ben Simon, of ‘Gili’s Kitchen’ here in the U.S., is an owner of the EAT Catering Company in Israel that served 60,000 meals in 2016 alone. He is known for catering weddings, Bar Miztvas, Bat Mitzvas, and business/private events. With 18-years of experience under his belt and more than 4,000 events Chef Gili can cook barbecue, Asian cuisine, Mediterranean food, Italian / French food and traditional ‘Jewish’ dishes, including east/west Sfaradic and Ashkenazic The food offered by Gili’s Kitchen is Kosher with affordable prices and harbors

its own distinct style. The menu mimics the taste of non- kosher restaurants and gives the customer the the same professional experience. The founder of Gili’s Kitchen, is his sicter-in-law and Ponte Vedra resident Ricki Ben Simon, who started the business earlier this year. She started Gili’s kitchen in 2017 when she What began as a few comments on the tasty food at one dinner party led Chef Gili to travel across the world several times a year to keep growing his followers with Ricki. The strong supporter of the chef wanted to share her love for traditional yet modern kosher food after a few years of exploring new dishes with Chef Gili. After he agreed to move his kosher catering business from Israel to Jacksonville, the two of them took a different approach to

the Jewish cuisine. “Our vision was to make our dream our profession and give others the opportunity to enjoy Jewish cuisine as much as our family and friends have over the past couple of years,” the Ben Simons said. Both Ricki and Chef Gili aim to embody the true nature of Jewish cuisine by making fresh meals daily and available for purchase, while constructing holiday and Shabbat menus that are available throughout the year. They also plan to open their kitchen to all events and partiesincluding having Gili come and cook for family and friends at your house as a private chef. To take a glimpse at some of the unique menu items he offers, log onto giliskitchen.com, call 904537-1671.

The Jewish Business Network of Jacksonville held its second-tolast meeting of 2017 with a gathering on the city’s Southside at the offices of St. Johns Asset Management. The meeting was hosted by financial adviser Zachary Cohen and sponsored by entrepreneur and small business owner Dana Rogozinski. Rogozinski is a thirdgeneration Holocaust survivor and has turned her grandparents’ stories into wearable jewelry and conversation pieces which display

their numbers they were assigned while at concentration camps in Europe. Find out more about the Jacksonville native’s story and her growing collection at jakobella. com. For those interested in attending or sponsoring a future JBN meeting, email Zachary Cohen at Zach@stjohnsasset.com or search for the group on Facebook.

www.jewishjacksonville.org

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

community news Jewish book club for 2018 Young Concert Artists Series opens with violinist Benjamin Baker women to feature novel Baker has appeared as soloist with Karolina’s Twins for Dec. the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

By Jewish Community Alliance

Thanks to the generosity of the Berman Family and the JCA, in collaboration with the Young Concert Artists, Inc., is proud to present violinist Benjamin Baker in concert at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 28. This season marks Baker’s first tour in the United States with debut recitals at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. and New York’s Merkin Concert Hall. He is a winner of First Prize at the 2016 Young Concert Artists International Auditions. A native of New Zealand,

Benjamin Baker

in London and has performed with orchestras across Europe and the United Kingdom. Currently a resident of London, Benjamin studied at the Yehudi Menuhin School and at the Royal College of Music where he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Rose Bowl graduation prize. He plays on a 1709 Tononi violin on generous loan. This concert is free and open to the entire community. For more information, contact Thelma Nied at thelma.nied@ jcajax.org.

Jewish Ospreys enjoy a Kosher beef BBQ at Chabad By Chabad of the Southside

In early November dozens of Jewish Ospreys gathered for a southern Kosher barbecue. Served over pretzel buns with all of the accompaniments, students came back for thirds and fourths as they enjoyed each other’s company, lively music and words of wisdom from Rabbi

Shmuli Novack. This event is one

of 52 events for Jewish Students scheduled for this semester. For more information about Chabad at UNF, visit JewNF.com.

By Chabad at the Beaches

Chabad at the Beaches’ Jewish book club for women is beginning its fifth year and will be lead by Joan Csillag. Every month the club meets and discusses a new book which covers a wide variety of topics that meet various interests. This is a great opportunity to meet new people, share your thoughts and opinions, and hear other’s insights. This month’s meeting will take place Tuesday, Dec. 5th at 7:30 p.m. and will revolve around the novel ‘Karolina’s Twins’ by “Ronald H. Balson which chronicles the journey of a young Jewish Polish schoolgirl who becomes a Holocaust survivor wracked with regret, but also with much resolve. Lena Woodward is on a mission she has let lapse for 70 years. She must find her best friend’s abandoned twin daughters and is now determined to return to Poland to keep her sacred promise to her dead friend. This club is free of charge, however meetings are hosted at private homes, so an address is provided with reservations. For more information on this

or other Chabad at the Beaches programs and events, go to Chabadbeaches.com or call 904543-9301. To RSVP, email leah@ chabadbeaches.com or text 904504-0451. January’s meeting will take place at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 9, and the book will be ‘A Prince in Prison’ by Joseph Issac Schneerson with translator Uri Kaploun.

Hundreds turn out to discover culture at the JCA BY IMAN BYFIELD

Jewish Community Alliance

This past November, the JCA celebrated its Cultural Arts Month with a community-wide event to appreciate literature, film and the arts through the JCA Cultural Arts Festival and the 21st Annual Jewish Book Festival. Guests from all over the city came to hear a diverse lineup of authors and enjoy film showings and other events. The opening night on Thursday, Nov. 2, was a hilarious event featuring original Saturday Night Live writer Alan Zweibel and Pulitzer Prize winner David Barry, who presented their book ‘For This We Left Egypt?’A full house of more than 200 guests turned out for a night of wit and humor with these two comedic powerhouses. The crowd was all laughs as Zweibel discussed his start in comedy and early days as a joke writer. Barry gave insight into life as a Christian married to a Jewish woman, his family and how he, Zweibel and their co-author Adam Mansbach conceived the idea for their book. It was a great night of discussion and audience participation which

included a book signing. On Sunday, Nov. 5, festival attendees enjoyed a double feature and a fascinating look at the volunteer airman who fought for Israel’s independence as detailed in the book ‘Angels in the Sky’ by Robert Gandt. Gandt enthralled his audience with a powerful presentation and historical account of these brave servicemen in honor of Veterans Day. The discussion was followed by a showing of the film, ‘Above and Beyond’, which brought the story to the big screen. The festival continued on Tuesday, Nov. 7, with author Steven J. Ross’s presentation of his novel ‘Hitler in Los Angeles’ to an attentive audience. The

JCA’s first ever festival book club brought book lovers together for a collective examination of Ayelet Gundar-Goshen’s novel ‘Waking Lions’ on Nov. 9. UNF professor Kelsi Hasden facilitated the discussion of this gripping story, which Gunder-Goshen joined via Skype from Israel. The JCA Cultural Arts Festival didn’t just celebrate literature as the Nov. 11 event featured a Broadway Cabaret entitled ‘The Jewish Legacy’, performed by Mitchell Wohl and highlighting the Jewish composers and lyricists who have contributed to musical theatre over the years. On the morning of Nov. 12, the JCA partnered with PJ Library to bring

children and families an educational puppet play, ‘Tessa’s Tree’, presented by Curious Moon Puppets. Jacksonville-based Olive My Pickle provided a pickle tasting in keeping with the theme of the Nov. 12 afternoon event, which featured a showing the comedy film ‘The Pickle Recipe’. There was something for everyone at the JCA Cultural Arts Festival. Annabelle Gurwitch, author and former cohost of TBS’s ‘Dinner and a Movie’, led a fun Girls’ Night Out and presented her book ‘Wherever You Go, There They Are’ on Nov. 14. Author Adamn Valen Levinson closed out November’s events with a discussion of his novel ‘The Abu Dhabi

Bar Mitzvah’. Local improv comedian Matt Flagler joined Levinson for an evening that encouraged us to find common ground through humor. The JCA appreciates the generous sponsor support of this event, which enabled the JCA Cultural Arts Festival to be free and open to the community. The festival continues in January with a special extension event featuring author Abigail Pogrebin who will present her book ‘My Jewish Year’ at 7 p.m on Jan. 24. For details, contact Lior Spring at 904-730-2100, ext. 318 or lior.spring@jcajax.org.

River Garden Auxiliary to host its annual Tombola event in March By River Garden Auxiliary

2017 is rapidly coming to an end, and River Garden Auxiliary is very excited about its plans for Tombola 2018. With all the fun-filled activities and events on the schedule, it’s important to get the event off to a good start. With that in mind, mailings are being sent out in the hopes that you will participate in helping to make it a great success. The administration of Tombola is strictly on a volunteer basis and all monies collected, with exception of postage and prize money, go directly to the River Garden Hebrew Home to help with what is needed for the additional comfort, convenience and enjoyment of its residents. Lew Meisel is again the honorary chairman and Alice Sherman has also joined the efforts. There are four chances to win and the odds in 2018 are much improved as the cost is $50 for one ticket, $100 for three and tickets may be split. You now receive an additional third ticket for $100 as opposed to the $50 per ticket in years past. The grand

prize for this year is $2,500, with second prize coming in at $1,000. Third and fourth prize will get you $500 each. The drawing, which will take place on Anniversary Day, Sunday, Mar. 25 at River Garden, will be here in the blink of an eye, so please be on the lookout for your bright green Tombola tickets in the mail and respond as soon as you possibly can. The Auxiliary and River Garden are depending on their return to make Tombola 2018 a smashing success. If you do not receive a flyer, need additional tickets or have any questions, please contact Betty Abisch at 904-379-0055. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to win some cash while simultaneously helping the River Garden residents.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

community news

Jacksonville Hadassah to honor ‘Fab Four’ at Jan.’s Chai Luncheon BY HELEN HILL

Jacksonville Hadassah

On Tuesday, Jan. 30, Jacksonville Hadassah will hold its Annual Chai Luncheon at the Jacksonville Jewish Center, honoring the ‘Fab Four’ in the process. The quartet of women who have been selected for 2018 include, Sylvia Lubliner, Ev-

elyn Peck, Susan Sidle and Helen Hill. All are long-time members of Hadassah, in fact their collective years of membership total an incredible 170 years as they were all active in Hadassah before moving to Jacksonville. The honorees held many leadership positions throughout the years, including president, vice presidents, and chairs oversee-

ing Jewish education, American affairs, public policy, membership,

and publicity and programming to name a few. These women continue to be committed to raising public awareness and funds for the Hadassah Medical Organization of America. Hadassah’s local ‘Fab Four’ share a common love of Hadassah, the Hadassah Medical Center along with a strong enthusiasm for the work that the organization does both in Israel

and the U.S. Jax Hadassah is proud to have these four as members and looks forward to honoring them at this event. The event is open to all who would like to attend, so for more information, contact Liat Walker at 904-591-6984 or walkers. beach@gmail.com.

Jacksonville Jewish community invited to take part in preparing and delivering mitzvah meals from Dec. 24-25th BY RHODA GOLDSTEIN Mitzvah Day Organizer

For the sixth straight year, members of the Jacksonville Jewish Community will be spending Dec. 25 helping out their neighbors. Delivering meals on this day is surely a mitzvah and many projects remain the same as in past years but there are a few new ones added for 2017. Once again volunteers will be cooking, packaging and delivering approximately 500 Meals on Wheels for the Aging True Agency and people are needed to assist with all of the below jobs. On Sunday, Dec. 24, dinner will be cooked and served at the Gabriel House of Hope on the Mayo Clinic Campus. This facility houses patients and caretak-

ers who are in Jacksonville for extended Cancer treatment or for those who are waiting for, or have received organ transplants. Monday, groups will then be cooking and serving dinners at Ronald Mc Donald House, Helen’s House, Five Star Veteran’s Center and the

Sulzbacher Center. Helen’s House is a new Jacksonville facility that houses patients who are here for extended therapy at Brooks Rehab Center. Some of these locations accept food that is brought in and others need food to be prepared on-site.

St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society to show ﬁlm on hidden Jews in Dec. By St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society

The St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society in cooperation with the National Center for Jewish Film at Brandeis University will screen the documentary ‘Expulsion and Memory: Descendants of the Hidden Jews’, on Monday, Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. in the St. Augustine Campus Teaching Auditorium of St. Johns River State College. The event is

sponsored by the St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society as part of the quest to understand the environment in which crypto-Jews lived in the first Spanish period of St. Augustine. The program is free, as all are welcome and no advance arrangements are necessary. Please call 904-626-5956 for directions or more info.

Each of these places require a team of volunteers to prepare and serve dinner. Like in past years, the public is also encouraged to donate baked cookies that can be packaged and delivered to area first responders. This has been a favorite for those with young children who have been able to check out some of the fire engines. For the past half-decade, this day has been coordinated by Rhoda Goldstein from the Jacksonville Jewish Center, in addition to Mike Elkin and Wiatt Bowers from Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple), but the entire community is needed to make the day possible. This year volunteering for all of the above positions and roles can be done by using signupgenius.com. The website to indicate your mitzvah

choice is: signupgenius.com/ go/5080b4ca9ae2ba5f58-mitzvah. Please be sure to fill in all of the information and if for some reason, you are unable to access this website, please call Rhoda at 904-268-8124. If you sign up and then are ultimately unable to help, please let us know as soon as possible.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

education

Michele Block Gan Yeladim’s annual Martin J. Gottlieb Day middle school symposium adds a local touch in 2017 School’s retreat makes unbreakable BY NATHAN WOODS

bonds for all

Michele Block Gan Yeladim

Each year, Michele Block Gan Yeladim Early Childhood Symposium brings in a fascinating keynote speaker to address its crowd of Northeast Florida educators. This year was no exception as Dr. Rosemarie Allen, a respected leader in the field of education, came to share her perspective on social emotional success. In addition to Dr. Allen’s keynote address, there were also several breakout sessions during the symposium which enlisted the expertise of local figures. San Marco-based psychologist Dr. Elliott Rosenbaum led the workshop ‘Teaching Children to Trust Their Intuition’, which emphasized the nurturing of children’s intuition. Rosenbaum served as a clinical psychologist in the U.S. Navy and also founded the American School of Professional Life Coaching. Colleen Rodriguez, the executive director of Jewish Community & Family Services, led ‘Creating a Culture of Kindness in the Classroom’, which detailed intervention methods for bullying, isolation or unkind behavior in classroom environ-

By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School

One of two breakout sessions at the annual Early Childhood Symposium

ments. Rodriguez is a licensed social worker and has been with JFCS in Jacksonville for 20 years. Elise Summa, lead clinician at the University of Florida Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, led the ‘ABCs of Behavior’ workshop which taught the basics of behavioral analysis and how to reinforce appropriate behavior and respond to inappropriate behavior. These three local workshop leaders provided fascinating insight and value to the dozens of local educators who attended the Michele Block Gan Yeladim symposium.

The morning following the symposium, Dr. Allen led a special Parent’s Morning for Michele Block Gan Yeladim parents on social and emotional success at home. She provided hands-on activities and tools for parents to use in guiding their children to appropriate behaviors. Contact Rochelle Golomb at 904-730-2100 ext. 259 or rochelle.golomb@jcajax.org to find out how to become part of the school’s excellent educator team or to be added to the mailing list for next year’s symposium.

The last week of October was an exciting one for the Martin J. Gottlieb Middle School as all 32 sixth, seventh, and eighth graders travelled together by bus to Camp Ramah Darom in Clayton, Ga. for the annual Middle School Retreat. The event is a four-day getaway that turns classmates into family members through a variety of educational and recreational experiences. Beginning with a stop at Fuego Mundo, a kosher Latin-American restaurant in Sandy Springs, Ga., the retreat included ziplining, snow tubing, davening, horseback riding, nature hikes, and study of body image through the lens of Judaism. For more information about Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, a Solomon Schechter K–8, call 904268-4200. Sixth, seventh and eighth graders at Martin J. Gottlieb Day School had an unforgettable time while on ra four-day retreat at Camp Ramah Daron in Claton, Ga.

Temple’s Institute of Religion to shine a bright light during the festival of lights known as Chanukah BY MICHELLE PENSEN TIR Director

It’s hard to watch the news, check social media or talk to friends and family at times. The outside world has grown exceedingly angry and hostile. From Mother Nature to gun violence and terrorism to politics, I find myself cringing before turning to the news. My goal is to find the light in each and every day. Like so many others, I look forward to the weekend. Not for the reasons most do but because Sunday mornings provide the largest boost of light during my week. The cacophony created by TIR families meet-

ing and talking during Nosh and Schmooze can make it difficult for some to hear the announcement that Kehillah (community) is beginning. Parents are spending the entire morning with us to help with our students, to engage in discussions within the Education Committee, or to join the Temple’s weekly yoga class. Teachers shine more light on Wednesday evenings and Sunday afternoons, and I admire our teachers who continue to provide positive messages and teach lessons of Jewish values and how they connect to our secular and religious lives. Madrichim and students provide yet another

opportunity for teaching as we often forget how much we can learn from our children. The Temple’s teens are doing a terrific job engaging our middle school students in social action and social activities. They are creating events and opportunities to build the solid foundation young teens need today to stay connected to each other and to become the positive force they can be in our world. Congregants and Board of Trustees who are supporting TIR with praise, ideas and support provide more light and the Temple’s Brotherhood and Sisterhood are always willing to help create educational opportunities, or

Torah Academy of Jacksonville students start morning prayer routine By Torah Academy of Jacksonville

Daily davening has gotten off to a great start at the Torah Academy of Jacksonville thanks to the enthusiasm of its first and second grade students who have been partaking in Shachris. Students started saying only a modest amount of the davening and have been slowly adding more to their

Michele Block Gan Yeladim students present their annual art show. Students took on the roles of admission agent, ticket collector and docent to display an array of art projects created in various mediums.

Temple and TIR will be shining brighter than any hanukkiah this year.

Hebrew School on the Island

daily routine. Last month, students began adding the shemoneh esrei, starting with only the first bracha and are hoping to add one new bracha per week, depending on the fluency of the group. It’s a process that may take a few months, but in the end, students will be capable of praying like their grown-up counterparts.

Michele Block Gan Yeladim presents its student art gallery to the public By Jewish Community Alliance

serve our teens and youth. As we enter the month of December and celebrate the Festival of Lights, the

By Chabad of Clay County

Chabad of Clay County in Fleming Island is proud to be offering its very own Hebrew School where Hebrew reading

and Jewish values come to life. Chabad Hebrew School creates an environment that fosters creativity and unique styles of learning because at CHS we learn it, live it and love it!

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education

Block Gan adds another ‘Parent and Me’ class

BY NATHAN WOODS

Michele Block Gan Yeladim

As part of its ever-expanding selection of Parent and Me classes, Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten is proud to introduce the latest new offering: Sensory Sensations. This new Sensory Sensations class will ‘tickle the senses’ through touch, smell, taste, movement, sight and hearing. These kinds of experiences stimulate learning, encourage scientific thinking, and foster

social connections while children play, investigate, and explore. It also provides parents of babies and toddlers not yet in school with yet another opportunity to engage in their child’s education process. The class starts at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 9, and continues each week through the end of

February. It is free and open to the entire community. For more information on this new class or any other Parent and Me programs, please contact Michele Block Gan Yeladim’s parent liaison, Michelle Cutler, at 904-7302100, ext. 242 or michelle.cutler@ jcajax.org.

By Torah Academy of Jacksonville

etc. This went along with our essential question in reading and health which asked students to reflect upon and discover how kids move. The inside of the body

was also talked about, including organs that protected by bones and are able to move because of our muscles.

Ganeinu Preschool has weekly Challah bake and Shabbat party By Southside Chabad

Each Friday Ganeinu Preschool students celebrate Shabbat with a very special Shabbat Party. Boys and girls take turns being the Shabbat Abba and Shabbat Imma, ‘lighting’ Shabbat Candles and making the kiddush. Students make dough and bake their own Challahs and Music

Martin J. Gottlieb Day School teachers present at an state-wide education conference By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School

Torah Academy students have a ‘hands off’ lesson Last month, students in Torah Academy of Jacksonville’s first grade were able to appreciate and experience the vitality of our hands to everyday living and how they provide us with the necessary gross motor skills to live fulfilling lives. Students attempted to accomplish varied tasks without using their hands, including sharpening pencils, coloring, erasing, putting things away, balancing, reading a book,

Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

Teacher Devorah teaches Shabbat songs. “This program helps foster a love for Judaism and appreciation for tradition at an early age,” said Ganeinu Director Chana Novack. “Bringing home a fresh baked challah that she or he braided at school, gives students a healthy dose of pride and confidence, which is a major objective of ours.” For more info

In early November, two middle school teachers from Martin J. Gottlieb Day School were invited to present at the Florida Council of Independent Schools state-wide conference in Orlando. Stephanie Teitelbaum and Lauren Resnick, who teach Language Arts and Math, respectively, outlined the day school’s ‘Game On!’ initiative, which results from an FCIS grant awarded to the school last year. The grant empowered the middle school students to build and showcase their skills on a variety of subjects through board game creation using 3D printers, high-tech apps, and more. The board games that the students created not only highlighted their own knowledge about a particular subject, but when the games were played the entire class could use the games as a learning tool. The ‘Game On!’ initiative not only supported students in their learning process, but also provided educators and teachers with lesson plans and rubrics. The

Martin J. Gottlieb Day School teachers Stephanie Teitlebaum and Lauren Resnick

students and their teachers additionally created a website so that classrooms across the country could share their game ideas, provide game building instructions, or even send games to another classroom to play for constructive feedback. The project was an amazing learning experience for the students; however, it was even more exciting for teachers, who provided resources to other educators and classrooms who were ‘board’ with traditional lesson plans.

Chabad of S. Johns holds fun Sukkah dance party

about Ganeinu preschool, go to Ganeinu.com By Chabad of S. Johns

The Jewish Kids Club and GROW’s After School Enrichment Program recently teamed up to create a Sukkah Dance Party brimming with smiles and giggles and prizes and treats. While blenders whirled, and scoops of ice cream were whipped up into mouthwatering milkshakes, kids of all ages were movin’ and

groovin’ to the beats of modern Jewish music. Dance props included-but were not limited to the awesome balloon lulavs and etrogs and the games and party favors shook up the sukkah like never before. The Jewish Kids Club and the GROW After School Enrichment is a project of Chabad of S. Johns. To find out more, go to JewishSJohnsCounty.com or call 904-701-4422.

Michele Block Gan Yeladim to host Chanukah baking class for kids in December

BY NATHAN WOODS

Michele Block Gan Yeladim

What better way is there to get ready for Chanukah than by baking some delicious treats? Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten will host its Chanukah Holiday Baking class on Friday, Dec. 8, and participants will get to make and eat their own traditional Israeli jelly doughnuts (known as suf-

ganiyot) with the help of Morah Karen. All children ages three to six are welcome to register for the class, which is from 1:302:15 p.m. Registration is $10 for JCA members, and $15 for non members. For more information about this or other Michele Block Gan Yeladim holiday celebrations, please contact Rochelle Golomb at 904-730-2100, ext. 259 or rochelle. golomb@jcajax.org.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

education

Martin J. Gottlieb Day School teacher invited to participate in a national STEAM webinar By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School

In November, Shana Gutterman, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School’s Art Instructor and STEAM Influencer, participated in an online seminar with educators from across the country regarding innovation in education.

The seminar was organized by Prizmah, the Center for Jewish Day Schools based in New York City, which supports the culture of day schools by providing day schools with resources to help ensure that day school is a first choice for Jewish families everywhere.

Shana Gutterman

Torah Academy of Jacksonville students a-maized on their feld trip

Mrs. Gutterman’s contribution to the discussion specifically addressed the STEAM Program at Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, and how integrating modern technologies and cross-curricular activities strengthens academics and allows students to express their own uniquely modern Jewish identity. By sharing program strengths, challenges, and results, Mrs. Gutterman’s presentation

provided food for thought to other day schools looking to take their STEAM Program to the next level.

Kids to take up tools at Lowe’s Menorah building workshop By Chabad of S. Johns

By Torah Academy of Jacksonville

Earlier this fall, Torah Academy of Jacksonville students took part in a corn maze during a field

trip to Conner’s A-Maize-ing Acres in Hilliard. While there they also got to see and interact with animals, go on a hay ride, play in a large bin of corn inside the barn

PJ Library Shalom Baby to co-host Chanukah event in Dec.

By DuBow Preschool

The DuBow Preschool Treehouse (the preschool’s baby and me programming) and PJ Library of Jacksonville will be co-hosting a special Hanukkahthemed Shalom Baby event at the DuBow Preschool Friday, at 9 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 15. Shalom Baby is geared for babies from three to 18 months old, but siblings up to three-years-old are welcome to join in. Attendees will make a Chanukah pocket wall hanging and enjoy a special story time from PJ Library. This event is free to attend, but RS-

VP’s are encouraged for supplies. Please email amanda.watsky@ mjgds.org to RSVP or for more information.

and the older kids even drove some four-wheelers around the property.

Chabad of St. Johns is partnering with Lowe’s once again and this year it’s a pre-Chanukah Glowing Menorah Building Workshop, scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. Wearing mini Lowe’s aprons and goggles, the kids will each craft a remarkable Menorah with a host of supplies available from Lowe’s.Expect some light refreshments in the form of fried foods as we keep up the tradition to eat items that remind us of the miracle of the oil. And of course, Judah Maccabee will make his annual appearance to give us a taste of victory and the joy and warmth of the holiday. The workshop will take place at Lowe’s on 4040 Oldfield Crossing Dr., in Jacksonville where

children and their families are invited to join in this lively, interactive celebration of Chanukah. This event is open to kids of all ages and is free with your RSVP. The Menorah workshop is co-sponsored by Lowe’s and Chabad of St. Johns. Reservations are appreciated to ensure enough supplies. To RSVP and for more information email nfo@ JewishSJohnsCounty.com or call 904-701-4422

Kosher BLT is back in S. Johns for boys to men to enjoy By Chabad of S. Johns

The new and improved BLT at Chabad of S. Johns is really kosher and recommended by all Rabbis on a steady basis. Come once a month on a Sunday morning for Bagels, Lox and Tefillin. That’s right, you’ll be treated to a delectable Jewish brunch. Tefillin and instructions will be available as it only takes a few minutes and you don’t even need any Hebrew reading skills. Save the date for the upcoming BLT on Dec. 10 at 9:30 a.m. Not quite sure what Tefillin are? This might help as Tefillin is described as small black leather cubes containing parchment scrolls inscribed with the Shema and other biblical passages, wrapped on the arm and head of Jewish adult men and boys, 13 and older each weekday. For more infomation call 904-701-4422 or email Rabbi@JewishSJohnsCounty.com

Rabbi Mendel Sharfstein of Chabad of S. John wraps Teﬁllin on an older gentleman during a recent Bagels, Lox and Teﬁllin get together.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

chanukah news and events Atlantic Beach boasts big Chanukah ‘America’s Got Talent’ panied by warm latkes, music, ﬁnalist to perform at Town free raffl es and more. celebration “Chanukah’s a time for celeCenter menorah lighting brating the freedom to openly exBy Chabad at the Beaches

press our values and this menorah proclaims that message to the world”, said Mrs. Dafne Blank, Program Director of Chabad at the Beaches’ Aaron and Blanche Scharf Center for Jewish Life. The Atlantic Beach Chanukah party and menorah lighting is just one of many events that Chabad at the Beaches has planned for the Festival of Lights. For a full schedule of events, go to ChabadBeaches.com.

The Jacksonville Beaches’ Chanukah celebration will receive a significant boost this year, as on Wednesday, Dec. 13, a fast-paced hour of family Chanukah fun will begin at 5:30 p.m., at the Adele Grage Community Center (785 Ocean Blvd.) in Atlantic Beach. The lighting of a nine-foot menorah will take place at 6:30 pm., and this special event will be accom-

Chanukah gelt will be dropped from a helicopter in Nocatee By Chabad of S. Johns

On Tuesday, Dec. 12, at 6 p.m., the ancient custom of giving children gelt (money) on Chanukah will be taken to a whole new level as for the first time, you’ll witness a dramatic helicopter gelt drop. After the chocolate coins rain down in a spectacular shimmering shower, the kids will rush in and collect their treasures. This momentous event will take

place at the Nocatee Splash Park, followed by the kindling of a Giant Glowing Menorah in which families are invited to a Chanukah light show over the park. The show will be accompanied by lively music and a delectable smorgasbord of Chanukah treats. The lighting of a dazzling Glow-in-the-dark Menorah and the joyous, family atmosphere will be sure to keep children and children-at-heart engaged and entertained throughout the

evening. This special celebration is free and open to the public, so for more information on this event or other Chabad Chanukah events go to JewishSJohnsCounty.com.

Nine foot menorah to light up World the main Menorah is lit, everyone Golf Village will be invited to sing and dance and savor a delectable buffet of Chanukah treats, latkes, doughnuts and plenty of chocolate gelt. Believe it or not, the giant Menorah in World Golf Village is one of more than 10,000 public menorahs, sponsored by Chabad, throughout the world, so bring your family, neighbors, and friends. For more information about Chabad’s Chanukah events in St. Johns County, go to JewishSJohnsCounty.com or facebook. com/JewishStJohnsCounty.

By Chabad of S. Johns

If you live in the World Golf Village area, mark your calendars for 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 14, as Chabad of St. Johns will be in the neighborhood to light up the night and spread the joy of Chanukah. The huge nine-foot Menorah will be lit that night in front of the Trophy Tower. Everyone in attendance will light a candle and then pass the light on to someone standing close. Once

Israeli violinist Boris Savchuk to play at Ponte Vedra Chanukah celebration By Chabad at the Beaches

Chabad at the Beaches is gearing up for its largest Chanukah event ever, expecting hundreds to attend the annual community celebration Tuesday, Dec. 12 at the Ponte Vedra Cultural Center (50 Executive Way). The fun begins at 5 p.m., followed by a menorah lighting at 6:00, with free Chanukah delicacies. This year’s event will feature Israeli Violinist Boris Savchuk, a master musician, and as always, children will also have the opportunity to get their face painted and pose for photos in dreidel costume. Dinner packages with a choice of Zahava’s famous falafel

or a kiddie hot dog package will also be available for purchase. For those who don’t know, Savchuk is a world class musician who specializes in all genres of Jewish music (Chassidic, Klezmer, Israeli, Traditional, Yiddish). He also plays Latin, Jazz world, popular and improvisational music in his extensive repertoire. It is very, very rare to hear Jewish music at the level of authenticity which he performs as he is also a solo performance and recording artist who represents a Mesorah of Jewish Music which is a cultural treasure, and which has virtually disappeared from modern Jewish life and experience

By Southside Chabad

Welcome Chanukah with a grand Menorah lighting at the Town Center (in front of Maggianos), at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 12, and experience the wonder and whimsy of comedian, juggler and magician David Ferman. See why Hollywood stars and millions of Americans sent him to Vegas to perform live on the America’s Got Talent stage, while enjoying tasty Chanukah treats. In addition to the food and performance, a free raffle with amazing prizes including a UAV drone, will be

Magician David Ferman

held as well as the arrival of some VIP guests.

Chanukah on the Green event will be held for Beaches young Jewish professionals, Dec. 14 By Chabad at the Beaches

As the famous Adam Sandler song goes, ‘put on your yarmulke, because here comes Chanukah!’ ... with the Beaches’ Young Jewish Professionals. On Thursday, Dec. 14, the Beaches YJP will meet at Green Room Brewing in Jacksonville Beach at 7:30 p.m., complete with a menorah lighting ceremony and traditional holiday fare. Don’t miss this great opportunity to mix and mingle with a great group of young professionals in the Beaches area as the evening will feature delicious latkes paired with the Green Room’s own craft beers. There will also be games and prizes to win, so be sure to RSVP via Facebook at the Beaches YJP page. The vision of the Beaches YJP is to

create a community in which Jewish Professionals can support and stimulate each other’s careers while building a stronger connection to their heritage and enhancing their awareness of issues that impact the Jewish community. For any questions, please contact the Beaches YJP president, Max Lesser at 954732-8443.

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Violinist Boris Savchuk

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

synagogue news

World renowned lecturer Charlie Harary to speak at Etz Chaim’s Yom Limmud program By Etz Chaim Synagogue

On Sunday, Jan. 14 at 9 a.m., Etz Chaim Synagogue is proud to bring back its annual Yom Limmud program. Now in its fourth year, Yom Limmud is a day of studying and learning – designed to offer its participants the opportunity to develop a deeper connection to the fundamental concepts in Judaism, in an intellectually challenging atmosphere. With more than 200 participants from all over the community at previous year’s events, another record crowd is expected. Presented by world-famous lecturer Charlie Harary this year’s Yom Limmud will touch on the topic of ‘I Know God Exists but is He in My Life?’ Many of us believe in God, but do we feel Him in our lives? Do we have a relationship with Him? Do we turn to Him in the good times and the bad? Join Harary as he takes you on a journey through six specific concepts

designed to enable us to explore what it means to have a meaningful and real relationship with God. For those who don’t know, Harary is an internationally recognized educator, author, and lecturer and is driven by the belief that the potential for greatness resides within every person. By integrating wisdom found in science, psychology and spirituality, each person can live a more fulfilling life and, in turn, impact the world. Leveraging his unique expertise on personal success and social impact, Harary has become a sought-after speaker featured each year by almost 100 different organizations, businesses, conventions, and academic institutions. He has created TV media and online video campaigns that have inspired hundreds of thousands of people across the globe. The inspirational speaker also co-founded H3 & Company, a multimillion dollar venture capital and advisory firm.

Charlie Harary

Previously, he was the First Vice President and legal counsel at RXR Realty, a billion dollar real estate firm in New York and prior to that, he worked as an associate at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison and Davis Polk & Wardwell. Harary received his law degree from Columbia University where he was awarded the James Kent Scholar and the Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar. The principles he shares are not simply theory, however they are the same

Jacksonville Jewish Center will feature some stellar speakers in 2018 By Jacksonville Jewish Center

The Adult Education Committee at the Jacksonville Jewish Center is excited to invite the community to two premier speaking events in the coming months. On Thursday, Jan. 4, the Center will host Mordecai Dzikansky, author of ‘Terrorist Cop’, which is the fascinating story of a New York City policeman who was stationed in Israel by the NYPD to be a liaison to the Israeli government. His mission was to work with the Israeli anti-terrorist police units and follow/train with them, while collecting intelligence and interacting with them on operational missions, looking for their potential impact on New York. Detective Dzikansky will take you from the ghettos and pulse of the Big Apple to bombing scenes in Israel and around the Middle East, before coming back to the U.S. with practical applications of lessons he learned. He will entertain the audience in a ‘how a Rabbi’s son becomes a Jewish cop kind of way’, which will no doubt leave you feeling empowered with real life situations and tips for keeping your community, synagogue and

Stephen Berk

schools safe. Then, from Feb. 23-25, the annual Marilyn and Louis Safer Shabbaton will take place as this year’s scholar-in-residence will be Dr. Stephen Berk, who is the Henry and Sally Schaffer Professor of Holocaust and Jewish studies at Union College in Schenectady, N.Y. Dr. Berk is the former Chair of the Department of History, Director of the Program in Russian and East European Studies and helps advise the Hillel organiza-

tion at the college. Prof. Berk is considered a superb teacher as his lectures are in high demand as a guest speaker. He is widely known for his expertise on the Holocaust, Russia, the Middle East and a variety of Jewish subjects. The theme for the Shabbaton weekend will be ‘Being Jewish in Modern America’, and will include subjects such as the Jewish fight for civil rights, an interactive text study of the Balfour Declaration, and ‘Putin and Netanyahu in the Age of Trump’. Look for more information about event times and meal reservations which will be coming soon.

This year’s Yom Limmud is excpected to be as well attended as in 2017

principles he has used to successfully pursue his own impact in the world. Harary is recognized as a leading social entrepreneur and shares strategies for personal achievement and organizational excellence as a Clinical Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship at the Syms School of Business in Yeshiva University. He is also a Senior Lecturer for the Orthodox Union, Aish Hatorah and NCSY. In addition, the Yom Limmud speaker is an active com-

munity leader as he is a member of the Executive Board of the OU as well as the Founding Chairman of its Young Leadership Cabinet. He is also a member of the Conference of Young Jewish Presidents. Yom Limmud is sponsored by Lawrence and Kathy Kanter and family. For more information or to register , go to etzchaim.org, contact Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum at rabbifeigenbaum@etzchaim.org or call at 904-262-3565 ext. 5.

Two Temple members to star in local production of Annie

By Northeast Florida Conservatory

A pair of members from Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) will be starring in the Northeast Florida Conservatory’s production of the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical ‘Annie’. The show will run from Dec. 1–17, and centers around the adventures of everyone’s favorite redhead orphan in a mischievous musical adventure. “We’re excited to bring this

classic Broadway musical to Jacksonville,” said Northeast Florida Conservatory Executive Director Richard Dickson. “Our shows continue to sell out, so for the first time, we’ll be extending our dates to three weeks instead of two.” In this production, an adorable orphan named Annie escapes a run-down orphanage, the dastardly Miss Hannigan, and her no-good brother, Rooster. Annie is sure to charm the big-hearted billionaire Oliver Warbucks (starring Mark Snitzer), along with the unctuous Bert Healy and President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (both played by Andrew Ocean). With classic Broadway hits including ‘Tomorrow’, ‘It’s a Hard Knock Life’, ‘NYC’, and ‘Easy Street’, audiences are sure to leave with their smile muscles sore and songs in their heads. Located at 11363 San Jose Blvd., Bldg. 200, the Northeast Florida Conservatory’s production will be complete with 30 actors, a 16-piece orchestra, and beautiful set designs. Reserved-seat tickets are available at showtixnow. com for $20. For a complete list of dates and show times, go to nfconservatory.org.

Explore Sephardic customs and Ashkenazic rituals with Etz Chaim Synagogue’s Rabbi Fisch By Etz Chaim Synagogue

It seems that many of us define ourselves by our Sephardic or Ashkenazic ethnicity. That many times evolves into not only cultural difference but also varying halachic practices. Hence, Sephardim are eating rice on Pesach as Ashkenazim abstain. The recitation of Yizkor is considered sacred in Ashkenazic liturgy and non-

existent in Sephardic practice. Yet, if we are all descended from the same ancestors and believe in the same Torah, how are our customs and practices so different? Please come for this fascinating mini-series scheduled for four consecutive Mondays starting Jan. 8 at Etz Chaim Synagogue for this historical and cultural journey of Sephardic and Ashkenazic Jewry. Rabbi Yaakov Fisch

Brunswick’s Temple Beth Teﬁlloh gears up Chanukah for its 2018 Jewish Food Fest in Ashkenazic liturgy and nonexistent in Sephardic practice. celebration Yet, if we are all descended from By Temple Beth Teﬁlloh

the same ancestors and believe in the same Torah, how are our customs and practices so different? Please come for this fascinating mini-series scheduled for four consecutive Mondays starting Jan. 8 at Etz Chaim Synagogue for this historical and cultural journey of Sephardic and Ashkenazic Jewry.

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synagogue news

Six men from Jacksonville come back from Israeli with newfound momentum

BY CRAIG CHERRIN Trip Participant

Last month, I participated in the Momentum trip which is affiliated with Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project (JWRP). The JWRP program began about nine years ago with eight women traveling to Israel. Their goals included bringing Jews to the land of Israel to reignite and reeducate the Jewish values, faith and teachings in their everyday lives. Since its inception, the program has grown both in the number of participants as well as the breadth of the program. It has also expanded into incorporating men in this project. I had the pleasure of be-

ing one of six men to represent Jacksonville on the 2017 Men’s Momentum Trip. Half the group traveled to Israel for their very first time (myself included), and we were led by Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum of Etz Chiam Synagogue. Around 220 men from three different countries and from cities located across the U.S. met for the first time at Ben Gurion airport. We traveled to Tzfat to get a taste of its mysticism and walked past the possible origin of the development of Rabbinic laws and the concept of Shabbos. To cap it off, the men went to a small cavernous Mikvah pool and took a dip and all were infused with more spirituality after the fact.

The group then hunkered down in Jerusalem for the rest of the trip, taking day trips to places like the Dead Sea and Masada before witnessing 13 men on the trip who never had a bar mitzvah, participating in their simcha in one of the world’s oldest synagogues at the top of Masada after scaling the mountain. Celebrating Shabbat in Jerusalem was also a treat as we took part in many activities, including having all 200plus men sing and pray together at the Kotel as the sun was setting Friday night. On Saturday, Jews whom we never met opened their homes to feed us and pray with us. Later, we had the privilege to enjoy the third Shabbos meal with

young IDF soldiers, while talking to them about their service. Each day, we enjoyed thoughtprovoking discussions led by Charlie Harary pertaining pertaining to important topics such as our connection to each other, strengthening our marriages and raising our families through citation of Jewish teachings, with a perfect helping of Jewish humor intertwined. We also heard from the founder of JWRP Lori Palanitk as she shared some of her wisdom about family virtues. This trip successfully made us realize that Jews can be separated physically throughout the world, yet reveal that we remain connected. All 220 men who hardly

knew each other before the trip got along very well as they quickly tore down the barriers of their personal lives and opened up to one another. The six men in our group (Tony Adelson, Ben Becker, Craig Cherrin, Leif Rush, Ken Hilbert and Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum) easily became friends as we shared our experiences together, and I speak for the rest of the group in stating that our trip helped take our lives from the doldrums of the mundane and reinvigorated them with Jewish values and teachings. For those interested in going on a similar trip in the near future, contact Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum at rabbifeigenbaum@etzchaim.org.

The Temple to host its annual Chanukah been busy preparing the synagogue’s gift shop for its annual gift shop sale The WRJ Temple Sisterhood has Chanukah sale, which will take By Congregation Ahavath Chesed

The Temple Judaica Shop will hold a special sale on Dec. 3 and 10th

place in the lobby of The Temple Congregation Ahavath Chesed Dec. 3 and 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. In addition to a large selection of decorative menorah, dreidels and serving pieces for all occasions, shoppers will find a wide variety of gift items for children and adults of all ages. A

10-percent discount will be applied to all purchases during the sale, so don’t let the holiday creep up on you. If you are unable to visit The Temple during the sale, you can also schedule a private shopping appointment by calling Renee Weinstein at 904-608-6403 or Mindy Grinnan at 904-982-1080.

Etz Chaim Synagogue to hold annual Chanukah party in Dec. By Etz Chaim Synagogue

Etz Chaim Synagogue will be holding its annual Chaunkah Party, at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 16. Sponsored by Jim and Dinna Richman in honor of Rabbi Feigenbaum, Rabbi Fisch, and their families, this year’s party promises an entertaining evening for the entire family. The synagogue’s yearly menorah contest gives

kids the opportunity to bring their creativity to a whole new level. With special booths and art activities for the kids, games for the adults, and food and music for everyone - it’s not an event to be missed.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

The Temple prepares to host Rabbi Dr. Gary Zola for a December Shabbaton

Rabbi Dr. Gary Zola By Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple)

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) will host renowned Rabbi, Dr. Gary Zola Dec. 1-3. Dr. Zola is the Executive Director of the Jacob Rader Marcus Center of the American Jewish Archives and the Edward M. Ackerman Family Distinguished Professor of the American Jewish Experience & Reform Jewish History at Hebrew Union College in Cincinnati. “He has trained and inspired scores of rabbinical students who have now fanned out across this country and are sharing their passion with their congregations,” Temple Rabbi Matt Cohen explained. Rabbi Zola will lead Torah study on Shabbat morning, beginning at 9 a.m. and then ‘Lunch ‘n Learn’ will follow Shabbat worship. There is a $10 charge for lunch and reservations are needed. Call the Temple office at 904-7337078 or email rsvp@TheTempleJacksonville.org. His luncheon

The Devil in Jerusalem By Naomi Raven Reviewed by Sophia Pentel ‘The Devil in Jerusalem’ by Naomi Raven is set in Jerusalem in an ultra- orthodox neighborhood. The Mea Sharim area is settled with many sects of ultraorthodoxy. Each sect thinks that they are the true religion. When a leader of one of the sect shows interest a young family, they join the sect, believing their doctrines. Crisis strikes, as their two children end up in hospital. Then, the truth comes out. How can a young couple, both with religious background and desire to be closer to God by becoming more religious, be able to distinguish between a true religion and a cult. The book is mesmerizing and shocking. It is a story how people’s mind can be controlled by charlatans, masquerading as true believers. ‘The Devil in Jerusalem’ is based on true events that have happened in that neighborhood and is a very interesting book.

topic is ‘Great Voices, Civil Rights and Jews in the American South’. This presentation includes a series of recordings of some renown American rabbis as they preached to their congregants about the rise of Adolf Hitler, the outbreak of WWII, the struggle for civil rights in the 1950s and ’60s. “Rabbi Dr. Gary Zola is one of my beloved teachers from my HUC days,” explained Rabbi Cohen, “With the generosity of Dr. Larry and Kathy Kanter and their Fund for Jewish Preservation, I am thrilled to be able to bring this very special teacher to our congregation and to our community. His titles might lead one to think that he is a dry, scholarly history professor. He is a scholar, and and he is a steeped in knowledge about Jewish history. The entire community is invited to join with The Temple family and learn with Rabbi Zola as he will deliver the sermon at Erev Shabbat worship, beginning at 7 p.m. His topic will be ‘For I am an American and a Jew’. Rabbi Zola’s presentation at the Community Breakfast on Sunday, beginning at 10 a.m., will be based on his newest book, ‘We Called Him Rabbi Abraham: Lincoln and American Jewry’. Rabbi Zola will explain why many of Lincoln’s personal and professional characteristics have caused American Jews to describe the 16th president as a man who possessed a Jewish soul. “He makes all of come alive, whether he is talking about Reform Judaism, or American heroes, or historic documents, so I look forward to welcoming him and learning together as a community,” added. Rabbi Cohen.

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chanukah celebration and event directory Chanukah crafts, delicious dinner, facepainting and of course all of the exciting bouncing and play activities that Pump It Up is so famous for discounted rates RSVP by Dec. 5 by calling 904-646-4434. 8727 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32217 thetemplejacksonville.org 904-733-7078 Friday, Dec. 15th (6 p.m.) SHABBAT CHANUKAH - Worship followed by a festive Chanukah celebration including a Shabbat dinner with freshly made latkes, games and fun for all ages. $18 per person for Temple members and $22 per person for non-members, while children 12 and younger and just $10.

10167 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32257 etzchaim.org 904-262-3565

Saturday, Dec. 16th (7:30 p.m.) ANNUAL CHANUKAH PARTY - The synagogue’s yearly menorah contest gives kids the opportunity to bring their creativity to a whole new level. With special booths and art activities for the kids, games for the adults, and food and music for everyone.

Chabad Lubavitch of Northeast Fla. 10129 Haley Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32257 chabadjacksonville.org 904-262-6641 Sunday, Dec. 3rd Chabad of S. Augustine (11 a.m.) MENORAH WORKSHOP AT LOWE’S - Assist your child, who will be decked out in gloves and an apron, build their very own Menorah. Adults also welcome as we’ll hear the story of Chanukah, before enjoying traditional fried holiday foods and more. Your admission is free with your RSVP online at chabadsaugustine.com. Location of this workshop is at 1955 U.S. 1 in St Augustine. For more information email rabbi@chabadsaugustine.com. Chabad of S. Johns (2 p.m.) MENORAH WORKSHOP AT LOWE’S - In a Lowe’s apron your child will build their own unique Menorah and be able to take a picture with Judah Maccabee. A special olive oil press demonstration will also take place while you enjoy traditional foods fried in oil. The event is free with your RSVP. The Lowe’s is located at 4040 Oldfield Crossing Dr. in Jacksonville. RSVP at JewishSJohnsCounty.com or by sending an email to Info@JewishSJohnsCounty.com. Southside Chabad (2 p.m.) BARNES & NOBLE STORY TIME & GIFT FAIR - Kids will love holiday crafts and an exciting holiday stories while parents can enjoy Starbucks and browse titles and gifts for Chanukah at the Town Center’s Barnes & Noble. All purchases made that day will benefit Ganeinu Preschool. Wednesday, Dec. 6th Chabad of S. Johns (7 p.m.) MENORAH AND MARTINIS - The Jewish Women’s Circle of St. Johns invites you to an elegant, warm and creative evening where you’ll design your own magnificent Granite Menorah and bring out your inner artiste. This is a ladies only event, so join us and bring a friend. To RSVP go to JewishSJohnsCounty.com/JWC and to find out more about the Jewish Women’s Circle, contact Mrs. Dini Sharfstein at 904-7014422 or send an email Dini@JewishSJohnsCounty.com. Sunday, Dec. 10th Southside Chabad (5-7 p.m.) CHANUKAH GLOW IN THE DARK – Ganeinu Preschool proudly presents an event where your children will enjoy

December 12 Clay County Chabad (5 p.m.) GRAND CHANUKAH KLEZMER CELEBRATION - Grand Chanukah Klezmer Celebration – To be held at Orange Park Town Hall Park (corner of Park Ave. and Kingsley ave.), featuring Klezmer Music with ‘Guy and the Yehudas’, Jacksonville’s only authentic Klezmer Band. We will kindle Clay County’s largest Menorah and enjoy delicious hot Latkes, fresh doughnuts and drinks. Special Chanukah crafts will be on hand for all children and a grand raffle will take place. This event is free and open to the public. Chabad of S. Johns (6 p.m.) NOCATEE CHANUKAH LIGHT SHOW – This event features a Chanukah Light Show over Nocatee’s Splash Park, and for the first time, you’ll witness the dramatic helicopter Gelt Drop along with a glow-in-thedark Menorah, Chanukah foods and more. For more info send an email to info@ JewishSJohnsCounty.com or call 904-7014422. Monday, Dec. 13th Chabad of S. Augustine (5 p.m.) GRAND PUBLIC CHANUKAH CELEBRATION – You are invited to celebrate the Festival of Lights with a live performance art of a sand sculpture menorah followed by a lighting in the heart of America’s oldest city. The festivities will also include latkes, doughnuts, a free raffle, along with music and prizes. The event, which will be held at the Plaza de la Constitución is free and open to the public. Thursday, Dec. 14th Chabad of S. Augustine (5:30 p.m.) PALENCIA CHANUKAH PARTY - You are cordially invited to a public Chanukah celebration and menorah lighting adjacent to 701 Market St. Event to include the kindling of a giant 10-foot menorah, hot latkes, fresh doughnuts, music, and a raffle. Free and open to the public, so bring your friends and family. Chabad of S. Johns (6:30 p.m.) WORLD GOLF HALL OF FAME GRAND MENORAH LIGHTING - Let your Jewish pride shine as we kindle a nine foot Menorah right in front of the Trophy Tower, while noshing on delicious potato latkes and jelly doughnuts. December 16 Chabad of S. Johns (6:45 p.m.) TEEN LIMO PARTY - Jewish Teens from around St. Johns County will take a ride around town in a stretched limousine for the Chanukah party of their lifetime. For more information email Info@ JewishSJohnsCounty.com or call 904-701-4422. Clay County Chabad (8 p.m.) WINE AND CHEESE CHANUKAH PARTY – Held in Riverside, this lighthearted social Chanukah event will let people enjoy kosher wine and cheese and of course traditional latkes and doughnuts following the Havdallah service and menorah lighting. Party at Tehilla’s, located at 1250 Mcduff Ave S. Wednesday, Dec. 20th Southside Chabad (7 p.m.) LADIES CHANUKAH

FINALE AT NORDSTROM’S - Ladies, join Chabad of Southside’s Chana Novack for coffee, tea and Israeli doughnuts during the ﬁnal hours of Chanukah as we reﬂect on the messages of the festival lights and important takeaways. This event will take place at the Ebar in Nordstrom’s at the Town Center. To RSVP call 904- 646-4434 or visit SouthsideChabad.com.

8505 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32217 jcajax.org 904-730-2100 Friday, Dec. 8th (1:30 – 2:15 p.m.) CHANUKAH HOLIDAY BAKING - Get ready for Chanukah by making traditional Israeli doughnuts (sufganiyot) with Morah Karen. The fee is $15 and $10 for JCA valued members. For ages 3 – 6.

famous latkes, hotdogs, songs and entertainment. Enjoy youth activities and the lighting of our giant outside chanukiyah. Space is limited and this event is free for JCA valued members only. Reservations are required by Dec. 5.

1326 Egmont St. Brunswick, GA 31520 www.bethteﬁlloh.org 912-265-7575

Friday, Dec. 15th (6 p.m.) SHABBAT CHANUKAH CELEBRATION – Join us as we hold early Shabbat services followed by a Chanukah party at the Temple, celebrating the festival of lights together.

Tuesday, Dec. 12th (5:45 – 8 p.m.) JCA CHANUKAH PARTY - The JCA’s annual Chanukah celebration features our world

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chabad news

Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

Chabad’s annaul Chanukah at the Landing celebration to feature ﬁre on ice, with a special ice menorah By Chabad Lubavitch of NE. Fla.

As the Jacksonville Jewish Community anticipates the arrival of the holiday of Chanukah, Chabad’s attention is directed toward its annual Chanukah at the Landing event to be held, Sunday, Dec. 17. This year’s event will feature a special ice menorah, along with a grand Chanukah family carnival and fair, including games and inflatables. Expert ice artist David Graham, from ‘Cutting Edge Ice Sculptures’ will carve a glittering ice menorah, which will then be lit. Additionally ‘Captain Character’ will be there with his famous balloon twisting and face painting. “If you think that Jews don’t have fun in December, you have

yet to attend this exciting celebration of Jewish culture and pride,” said Rabbi Yoseph Kahanov, regional director of Chabad in Northeast Florida. Kicking off the event is the annual Chanukah Car Parade, which is a beautiful demonstration of Jewish pride and solidarity. More than 100 vehicles, adorned with custom designed Chanukah flags which are free to all participants, are expected to join the caravan toward the Landing. The convoy including Chabad of Southside, Beaches, St. Augustine, Clay County and St. Johns, will gather at 1:30 p.m. and depart at 1:50 p.m. Sharp from Chabad regional headquarters in Mandarin. Chabad at the Beaches will gather at 1:15 p.m. and depart at 1:30 p.m. sharp. All locations will

join a single procession toward the Jacksonville Landing, Hogan Street Entrance, where the Chanukah event will take place. The fun-filled afternoon will feature a variety of kiosks and exhibitions, including Judaica gifts, books and art, Chanukah doughnut decorating, carnival games and inflatables, an olive press demonstration, Chanukah arts and crafts, candle making, face painting, free latkes and a raffle. Dignitaries and public officials will convey Chanukah greetings and well wishes to the Jewish community and then the grand Menorah lighting will be held at 5 p.m. Chanukah, the Jewish festival celebrating the liberation and rededication of the ancient Temple in Jerusalem begins at nightfall,

Tuesday, Dec. 12, and is celebrated for eight days. The annual menorah lighting and fair is open to the public and free of charge, however food and other items will be sold. If you’re looking for good, kosher family Chanukah entertainment, don’t miss this spectacular celebration. For more information regarding the parade and/or program, please contact your nearest Chabad Center. This event is sponsored byall six Northeast Florida Chabads.

Beaches to hold Chanukah Shabbat dinner Jewish women’s circle By Chabad at the Beaches

Join your fellow Beaches Jewish residents for a delicious Chanukah inspired Shabbat dinner, Friday, Dec. 15 as Chabad at the Beaches is hosting this event on the fourth night of the holiday. Jews from

all walks of life are welcomed to attend this warm, welcoming atmosphere, with delicious food, kibitzing, singing and fun. Services begin at 6:30 p.m..followed by dinner. No synagogue affiliation necessary, however an RSVP is required. To reserve your space, call

904-543-9301 or send an email to info@chabadbeaches.com.

Ladies Starbucks meet-up to feature Chanukah white elephant gift exchange By Chabad at the Beaches

Don’t miss out on this fantastic girls night at Starbucks as all women are invited to the Jacksonville Beach location, Saturday night, Dec. 16, at 7:15 p.m. A fun night out with other women in the community in celebration of Chanukah will take place in addition to a white el-

ephant gift exchange. To take part in the exchange, you can bring a wrapped Chanukah gift valued at $10 or less. Starbucks is located at 975 3rd St. S. in Jax Beach. Please RSVP by calling 904-543-9301 or sending an email to Leah@chabadbeaches. com.

ongoing and upcoming events Clay County Grand Chanukah Klezmer Celebration - Tuesday Dec. 12 at 5 p.m. at Orange Park Town Hall Park (corner of Park Ave. and Kingsley ave.), featuring Klezmer Music with ‘Guy and the Yehudas’, Jacksonville’s only authentic Klezmer Band. We will kindle Clay County’s largest Menorah and enjoy delicious hot Latkes, fresh doughnuts and drinks. Special Chanukah crafts will be on hand for all children and a grand raffle will take place. This event is free and open to the public.

abad.com or call 904-646-4434.

Mandarin/HQ Daily Chassidic Philosophy Held weekday mornings, Monday – Friday, 6:40 a.m., Sundays 8:15 a.m., with instructor Rabbi Yossie Kahanov.

S. Augustine Kabbalah and Coffee - Sunday mornings from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Insights on the Torah Portion Shabbos Mornings, 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 Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m., with instructor Rebbetzin Rivkie Kahanov. Shabbos Live - Join us for a memorable Shabbat dinner and monthly oneg. The dinner is free and open to all to experience the feeling of holiness that only Shabbat can bring. Great food, insightful discussion, Chassidic melodies and a warm ‘Heimish’ atmosphere is to be had. Call 904-262-6641 for more information or to reserve a spot. Southside CHS - Chabad Hebrew School on the Southside - MidYear enrollment is now open. At CHS Jewish learning is meaningful and fun. The school enjoys a well-earned reputation as a trendsetter in creative Jewish education for children ages 5-13. From lively interactive classroom discussions to exciting hands on learning programs, it’s unique learning experience will engage, excite, involve, and inspire young minds and hearts. School is held Sundays from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Visit SouthsideChabad.com for more information. Yoga and Torah for Women: Unleash Your Inner Strength - Invigorating Yoga exercise followed by delicious and healthy refreshments and a thought provoking discussion of Jewish wisdom. No prior Jewish Education or Yoga experience necessary. Class meets every other Wednesday evenings by the St. Johns Town Center. To RSVP visit SouthsideCh-

Saturday Morning Shabbat Services Join us for services with Rabbi Shmuli Novack in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Our nonjudgmental philosophy embraces everyone, regardless of commitment or religious background. Services are held at 10:30 a.m., in a traditional setting, with a contemporary message. A traditional cholent luncheon follows services. Visit SouthsideChabad.com for more information.

Torah Studies – Examining the weekly Torah portion, Wednesday evenings from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. Beginners Shabbat Services and Kiddush – Held Saturday mornings from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. S. Johns GROW After-School Enrichment Program - The GROW After-School Enrichment Program will be starting the GROW Theater session Tuesday, Dec. 5, and takes place every Tuesday at 3:45 p.m. at Durbin Creek Elementary School. For more info visit JewishSJohnsCounty.com/GROW or email Dini@JewishSJohnsCounty.com BLT - Bagels, Lox, Tefillin - Join us once a month on Sunday morning for Bagels, Lox and Tefillin. Upcoming BLT on Sunday, Dec. 10 at 9:30 a.m. For more information call 904-701-4422 or email Rabbi@JewishSJohnsCounty.com Torah & Tea Series- Join together with Jewish women for inspiring Torah discussions, Jewish meditation, camaraderie, hot tea, and delicious refreshments. The feminine Spirituali-Tea held Mondays at 7:30 pm. For more information email Dini@JewishSJohnsCounty. com

www.chabadjacksonville.org

of St. Johns to hold a menorahs and martinis evening

By Chabad of S. Johns

The Jewish Women’s Circle of St. Johns invites you to an elegant, warm and creative evening where you’ll design your own magnificent Granite Menorah and bring out your inner artiste. On Wednesday, Dec. 6 at 7 P.M., kick back and get to know the Jewish women in your area by enjoying a martini (or two) with a gourmet Chanukah buffet on the side. at this event, you’ll discover your inner fire and explore the connection between women and Chanukah. The Jewish Women’s Circle (JWC) is a unique opportunity to connect with Jewish women from diverse backgrounds and affiliations in a warm, lighthearted atmosphere. Join us and bring a friend! To RSVP or find out more about the Jewish Women’s Circle, go to JewishSJohnsCoun-

ty.com/JWC or contact Mrs. Dini Sharfstein at 904-701-4422 and via Dini@JewishSJohnsCounty.com.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

federation news rGEN sends trio to leadership retreat in Nashville to bond and interact husband Inon and their three just the responsibility, but the opwith Israelis children. When I think of Israel, portunity of turning the trepidaI don’t think of a place I haven’t tion of “where they have not been” been, I think of a home. I think of Mor, Adi, Maya, Yael, Cheli, Tlalit, Zohar and so many more. This next generation has not

BY EMMA PULLEY

rGEN Director epulley@jewishjacksonville.org

“The task of the leader is to get his people from where they are to where they have not been,” as Henry Kissinger said. However, for those of us emerging into the adult environment so strongly referred to as “the real world,” some of us are a little apprehensive about what that means. “Where they have not been,” could describe many locations, many milestones, and many experiences that we ourselves have yet to arrive. In this age of readily available information, it is still easy to feel a little lost and small in a world that is much bigger than ourselves. Thankfully, I’ve had an opportunity that has lifted me out of those confines as this past November, I was fortunate to participate in the Leadership 2Gether program offered through the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville’s Israel Partnership Division. This learning cohort was comprised of a group of 20 young professionals10 Americans from the Southeast United States and 10 Israelis from our partner region of Hadera – Eiron. We spent 10 months paired together with guided lessons aimed at making cross cultural connections between our lives, our work, and our relationship to our Judaism. At the end of the program, we

into the hope and possibility of “where they will go.” And I for one look forward to the challenges of the tomorrow – L’Chaim!

The retreat brought together Israelis and Americans who had been corresponding with one another for nearly a year before their 1st meeting

spent an incredible week together here in Jacksonville and then in Nashville learning about local Jewish communities and discussing the responsibilities of the emerging adult generation and how we can each be a champion for evolving, inclusive Jewish life in our respective communities. The gift of being together in the same place for a week helped us see that, despite the uniqueness of where we each come from, we are all facing the same questions and

sharing the same hopes for the future. We could start to see in each other the eagerness to travel down the same roads together, even if we are still miles apart. “Leadership” is a word more ambiguous than it may seem. The definition varies across temperaments and levels of confidence. I

find that for myself, I often look for leaders in others and the absolute last place I look for a leader is my own mirror. But I should… Everything, all of it – the passion projects, the volunteerism, the fundraising, the connections – it starts with us. For all the good we wish to see in the world, we must set the example. Whether or not we recognized it at the time, we had been leading each other – guiding language, behaviors, fashions, food choices, etc. We had been exercising influence and setting our own examples for others to respond to and it came more naturally than we realized. For me, I discovered that leading is less about the ritual of buying a power suit or reading a self-help book and more about simple things like showing up and being present. Being a leader can be as easy as flashing a smile and letting someone know that they are welcome and that they belong. I left Nashville with many things- a really cool water bottle, a Johnny Cash t-shirt, a ton of ideas, but my most prized souvenir was a greater sense of global community. In a short amount of time, a world that felt impossibly large suddenly didn’t feel so overwhelming. In my mind’s eye, I can see the kibbutz where my partner Calanit lives with her

Israelis feel at home in Jax

The Israeli delegation from Partnership’s Leadership2Gether program stopped in the River City for a few days this fall en route to Nashville to meet up with the rest of their American cohorts. Here they are mixing and mingling with some people from the rGEN group in San Marco.

Dining (with) Alon

rGEN members pose with Alon Ben Gurion, grandson of Israel’s ﬁrst prime minister David Ben Gurion, following a lunch at Taverna in San Marco. Ben Gurion was the guest speaker at the Federation’s annual campaign kickoff, held at Etz Chaim Synagogue later on in the day.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

federation news

Have some news or a signiﬁcant milestone to share with the Whether it’s a milestone achievement accomplished by a friend or family associated with the Jacksonville Jewish com-

munity, or simply a story, event or announcement to be shared, drop us a line at jjn@jewishjacksonville.org. You can also contact

newspaper editor and Federation Communications Director Matt Franzblau directly at mattf@ jewishjacksonville.or or by calling

904-448-5000, ext. 212. The Jacksonville Jewish News is published 11 times a years, in newspaper from January to May

and then again from August to December, with a Summer Magazine covering the months of June and July.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE

Celebrate Chanukkah with the JCA By Jewish Community Alliance

Every year, the Jewish Community Alliance celebrates Chanukkah with a fun, family event for JCA members and families. This year, the JCA’s Chanukkah Party and chanukiyah lighting takes place on Tuesday, Dec. 12 from 5:45–8 p.m. The evening includes the lighting of the JCA’s giant outdoor chanukiyah, which was created by local artist David Ponsler, followed by dinner. JCA members are invited to gather and celebrate the start of the eight-day festival

of lights. Take part in the singing of traditional Chanukkah songs, and enjoy JCA’s famous hotdogs, latkes as well as youth activities and entertainment. This event is free to JCA valued members, however registration is required

by Dec. 5. The JCA Chanukkah Party is organized by the JCA’s Department of Family and Jewish Outreach. For more information, contact Dave Flagler at 904-7302100, ext. 271.

Save the date for the JCA’s annual fundraiser in Feb. By Jewish Community Alliance

The JCA will celebrate its 30th Anniversary on Saturday, Feb. 24, at 7:30 p.m. with a milestone

event recognizing honorary chairs David Stein, Howard Korman and Jeff Parker. For more information and to become a sponsor, contact Lior Spring at 904-730-2100, ext. 318 or lior.

Jewish community alliance HAPPENINGS December 2017 Kislev/Tevet 5778 For more information or to register for programs at the JCA, call 904-730-2100 or visit our official website at www.jcajax.org.

Dec. 13 at 12 p.m. This classic, film noir stars Gene Tierney and Dana Andrews. This is free and open to the community, however reservations are appreciated.

JCA PAC: Beauty and the Beast

The work of Kern Hercules will be shown until Jan. 3. The reception for the exhibit is on Dec. 3 from 4–6 p.m.

Bring your family and ‘be our guest’ for this JCA Performing Arts for Children presentation on Dec. 2 and 9 at 7:30 p.m. and December 3 and 10 at 1 p.m. Tickets sold at the door for $7.

JCA Chanukkah Party

Art in the Afternoon

Vandroff Art Gallery

JCA valued member families, join our annual Chanukkah celebration on Tuesday, Dec. 12. Reservations are required by Dec. 5.

Classic Move Magic

See Laura (1944) on Wednesday,

On Jan. 10 from 1–3 p.m., create kindness rocks for people to have as a reminder to be mindful and show gratitude. The fee is $15 and $10 for JCA valued members.

Symphony in 60

On Thursday, Jan. 4 at 5:30 p.m. enjoy refreshments and a concert, followed by a party with the Symphony musicians. The fee is $38 and $25 for JCA valued members. Registration is required by Dec. 21.

JCC Maccabi Games and ArtsFest

Jewish youth athletes, ages 13–17, can contact Rio at ext. 904-7302100, ext. 250 for information on how to participate in the 2018 JCC Maccabi Games and ArtsFest.

Martial Arts

Beginner’s Israeli Mixed Martial Arts and Youth Cuong Nhu are offered from Jan, 22–Apr. 30. For more information, contact Rio at 904-730-2100, ext. 250.

Youth and Adult Fencing

The JCA offers youth and adult fencing lessons beginning Jan. 10. For more information, contact Rio at 904-730-2100, ext. 250.

Youth Basketball League

Practice starts in Dec., so contact Mike at 904-730-2100, ext. 254 to schedule a make-up evaluation.

JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE 2017 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $186,590

Women’s Self Defense

This is a reality-based, self-defense introduction for women from Jan. 16–Feb. 6. No prior experience is necessary, so contact Rio at 904-730-2100, ext. 250 for more information.

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Jacksonville Jewish News â&#x20AC;˘ December 2017

JEWISH community foundation of northeast florida

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Briefs

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

JEWISH FAMILY and COMMUNITY SERVICES

JFCS celebrates ribbon cutting of its new building and Holocaust memorial gallery with 300+ attendees

PJ Library

PJ Library, the award-winning free program for books and music is open to all families with Jewish children in Jacksonville. If your children are between the ages of six months and eight years, they are eligible. Please sign up now by going to pjlibrary.org/ communities/jacksonville, or calling Whitney Kuvin at 904394-5724.

From L-R Laurie DuBow, Renie Levin, Jodie Leach, Morris Bendit, Colleen Rodriguez, Ben Frisch, Ina Taffet, Rhonda Passink, Eunice Zisser, Kalilah Jamall, Essence McKinney (Photo Credit Larry Tallis)

is the only Holocaust memorial between Miami and Atlanta. The gallery will host rotating exhibitions to help educate the community. The dedication ceremony also honored the nonprofit’s 100 years of service with a commemorative time capsule. Diverse community members, including a JFCS foster care child and a Holocaust survivor, added mementos to the capsule to represent the nonprofit’s areas of community

service. The new 30,000-squarefoot headquarters provides space for the nonprofit’s range of social services and will house a majority of the agency’s staff,. “The Alan J. Taffet Building will be able to support the many ways we’ve evolved to help our community over the past 100 years,” said JFCS CEO Colleen Rodriguez. “No one walks through our doors with just one challenge, and our new headquarters is designed so that we can assist people more comprehensively, offering them the tools they need

JFCS board VP Mary Edwards outside of a room that bears her name

Board Member Kimberly Sisisky and Board President Jodie Leach

By Jewish Family & Community Services

Meals4You

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

The Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery was designed by local Holocaust survivor, Morris Bendit. (Photo Credit Brandi Hill Photography)

Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS) recently celebrated the grand opening of its new Southside headquarters, the Alan J. Taffet Building, with a ceremony attended by more than 300 community members. The celebration included a ribbon cutting and tours of the new building that features the new Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery which

to help themselves.” The new building was made possible with the help of the ongoing capital campaign, ‘The Place We Make ... The Place That Makes Us’. The campaign, with a goal of $6 million, will aid JFCS in its mission of serving First Coast families of all races, religions and backgrounds. Dedicatory opportunities are still available. Please contact JFCS Development Director, Kathy Wohlhuter at 904-3945727 or by email at kwohlhuter@ jfcsjax.org

Call2Go

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

Pat Frisch and granddaughter Abby

Musician Rick Recht to perform at another JFCS ribbon cutting ceremony in January By Jewish Family & Community Services

JFCS invites you to attend the ribbon cutting and family festival celebration of the Allison Stein Robbins Building and the dedication of the Max Block Food Pantry. We will also be celebrat-

ing PJ Library Jacksonville’s sixth birthday with popular Jewish musician Rick Recht. This event will take place at 1:30 pm, Sunday Jan. 21 at 6261 Dupont Station Ct. E If you are interested in attending, please contact Donna O’Steen at 904-394-5714 or dosteen@ jfcsjax.org .

JFCS gears up for 2017 holiday gift-giving program By Jewish Family & Community Services

Jewish Healing Network

JFCS children and seniors need your help as every year, JFCS Become a Jewish Healing organizes a holiday gift-giving Network Volunteer at JFCS Program to serve the more than and help us fulfill the mitzvah 1,500 children the organization serves through its many programs of Bikkur Cholim. We need volunteers to make weekly vis- as well as seniors in need. The generous donors that provide gifts its or phone calls to a senior or the many clients are heroes and deliver food to those who can- now you as well as your family, your friends and your co-workers not get out. For more inforare encouraged to participate in mation, this rewarding program. please To lend a helping hand, please call Gail contact Donna O’Steen at 904at 904394-5714 or dosteen@jfcsjax.org. Should you choose to ‘sponsor’ a 394-5723. child or a senior, you will be sent

Last year’s staff and volunteers organizing gifts for children and seniors

a ‘wish list’ to fulfill. If you do not have time to shop, send a check to Jewish Family & Community Services 8540 Baycenter Rd. Jack-

sonville, FL 32256 with ‘Holiday Giving’ written in the memo line and the shopping will be done for you. Please consider warming the

JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES 2017 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $265,600

Rachel Sandler, Whitney Kuvin, Alicia Rauchwarger

heart of a child or a senior this holiday season.

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Jacksonville Jewish News â&#x20AC;¢ December 2017

river garden senior services

RIVER GARDEN 20117 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $175,160

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

lifecycles and business card directory B’nai Mitzvah

Josie Eden Sagasser will be called to the Torah Saturday, Dec. 2, at Beth El, the Beaches Synagogue. Josie is the daughter of Melinda Greenfield and Carl Sagasser and sister of Nathan Sagasser. Proud grandparents are Gail and Stanley Greenfield and Josie Sagasser her great grandparents of blessed memory were Sally and David Safer and her great-great grandfather was Rev. Benjamin Safer, the first Orthodox rabbi in Jacksonville. Josie is in the seventh grade at Landrum Middle School and is on the ‘A’ honor roll and in the gifted program. She plays tuba in windensemble and participates in drum line, and jazz band. She is also on the bylaws committee for student council. The Bat Mitzvah to be takes Muy Thai, a form of martial arts and enjoys lifting weights In the gym with her family. She also attends summer camp at Camp Ramah Darom in Clayton, Ga. Hope Freedman, daughter of Karen and Michael Freedman, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of her Bat Mitzvah, Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018, at Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue. Sharing in the simcha will be her older sister Grace, grandparents Carol Freedman and Norman Freedman (of blessed memory) from Jacksonville, and Sybil and Larry Michalove of Birmingham, Ala., in addition to many other friends and family. Hope is in the seventh grade gifted program at Landrum Middle School in Ponte Vedra Beach. She enjoys dancing and spending time with friends and family. Hope’s love of dance led her to choose for her mitzvah project a charity called ‘Traveling Tutus’. This organization collects, packages and ships dance costumes to children all over the world. Traveling Tutus primarily

donates to children in orphanages, children’s homes, title-one schools, foster care, or other non profits. Hope has been Hope Freedman collecting dance costumes with the help of her dance studio since September and plans to continue this collection every year.

Sympathies

… To the family of Sam Bono, who passed away Wednesday, Oct. 25, at the age of 80. Graveside funeral services were held Oct. 27 at the New Center Cemetery in Jacksonville. Memorial contributions may be directed to River Garden Senior Services or to the Jacksonville Humane Society. … To the family of Olga Tyson, who passed away, Tuesday, Oct. 31, at the age of 93. She is survived by her children Michael (Jean) Tyson, Diane Leino, Joseph Tyson; sister Ella Rogozinski; and granddaughters Amber Leino and Erica (Louis) Roig. She was predeceased by her husband Henry and sister Helene Pollan. A graveside funeral service took place Nov. 3, at the New Center Cemetery in Jacksonville. … To the family of Perry Cohen, who passed away Thursday, Nov. 9 at the age of 95. He is survived by his wife Shirley, children Danny, Rick, Mark, Marjie Nealon (Tom) and seven grandchildren. A graveside funeral service was held Nov. 12 at King David Garden (Greenlawn Cemetery) in Jacksonville and a meal of consolation followed at The Temple. The family requests that contributions in memory of Cohen be made to The Temple’s General Fund. … To the family of Doris Singer who passed away Wednesday, Nov. 15th at the age of 84. She is survived by her husband Fred

Singer; children Ilene (Jeffrey) Levenson, Gary Singer (Sue Ventura), and Richard (Dana) Singer; grandchildren Annie Levenson (Peter Ganong), Rachel (Ross) Carlson, Sara Singer, Brian Levenson, Eric Levenson, Josh Singer and Martin Singer; and greatgrandchild Ruth. Funeral services were held Nov. 19 at the HardageGiddens Mandarin Funeral Home Chapel in Jacksonville, followed by interment in the New Center Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the League of Women Voters Education Fund or the charity of your choice. … To the family of Ragen Shapiro, who passed away Wednesday, Nov. 22. She is survived by her husband Harry Shapiro, children Chana and Sruli Shapiro, mother Sandi Roth and brother Chaim (Bryna) Roth. She was the daughter of Torah Academy of Jacksonville’s founder, Mr. Robert Roth (of blessed memory). The funeral service took place Nov. 24 in the Etz Chaim Section of Arlington Park Cemetery. Shiva was observed at the home of Harry Shapiro. … To the family of Jacksonville Jewish Center member Irma Blattner, who passed away Wednesday, Nov. 22 at the age of 84. She is survived by her husband Sheldon; children Craig (Jody) Blattner, Gail (Larry) Kaplan; grandchildren Michael (Jennifer) Blattner, Carly (Marshall) Haslett, Allie Blattner, David Kaplan, Daniel Kaplan, Nathan Kaplan; and great-granddaughter Brenna Blattner. A graveside funeral service took place Nov. 27th at the New Center Cemetery in Jacksonville. Contributions in Mrs. Blattner’s memory may be directed to the Jacksonville Jewish Center or to River Garden Hebrew Home. To submit an item for life cycles, please email it to jjn@ jewishjacksonville.org. Due date is the 6th of the month. For guidelines of how to write Bar/Bat Mitzvah, wedding or obituary announcements, go to jewishjacksonville.org/news under “Share your news.”

business card directory

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federation news

Ben Gurion Kickoff Continued from pg. 1 of a Jewish state. “Nevertheless the Jewish state will not rely only on the Jews living in it, but on the Jewish people living in every corner of the world,” the letter stated. “A Jewish state must be established immediately, even if it is only in part of the country. The rest will follow in the course of time. A Jewish state will come.” Nearly 70 years later Ben Gurion’s vision and hopes have come true and are thriving in modernday Israel. A big thank you to the staff and clergy at Etz Chaim for hosting and to GrayRobinson Law Firm for sponsoring the event.

Queen of Kosher Continued from pg. 1 Nicknamed the ‘Jewish Rachael Ray’ by The New York Times, and the ‘Queen of Kosher’ by CBS, best-selling author Jamie Geller is the Founder and CEO of Kosher Network international (KNi), publisher of JOYofKOSHER.com and

Ilene Sari Selevan Young Leadership Award winner Haley Trager and Federation Board President Ken Jacobs

The family of Joe P. Safer Community Service Award winner Hal Resnick (of blessed memory) with Board President Ken Jacobs

Andrea Mail, Micki Green, Alon Ben Gurion and Manya Osher

the award-winning Jamie Geller’s JOY of KOSHER magazine. She is also host of the Chanukah Cooking Special with Jamie Geller on PBS and Create TV. Geller is a regular on the TODAY Show and has appeared on ABC, NBC, CBS and Martha Stewart Living Radio, and been featured in Forbes, Family Circle, Cosmopolitan and the Chicago Tribune among many others. After graduating magna cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa from New York University in just three years, the Kosher culinary maven enjoyed an illustrious career as

an award-winning TV producer and marketing executive for HBO, CNN and FOOD NETWORK. One of the most sought-after Jewish food and lifestyle experts

worldwide Geller and her husband have six children, which gives her plenty of reasons to get out of the kitchen. Those who plan on attending

this event should kindly RSVP by Jan. 12 to 904-448-5000, ext. 1208 or nataliem@jewishjacksonville. org.

Stephen Leimberg

cover for Conroy’s book, ‘My Life in Reading’. For a portion of the program, scheduled for Dec. 6 at 9 a.m., the talented photographer will offer up many useful suggestions for successful photography, especially when traveling. He will use some of his own photographs to show many examples of his suggested techniques and will demonstrate how the average photographer can improve the results.

a complimentary bagel breakfast followed by the very talented, animated and knowledgeable speaker, but an RSVP is a must by Dec. 1. Those in attendance can expect a very entertaining and educational presentation as his website (unseemmages.com) is well worth visiting to enjoy the full array of his outstanding work. Leimberg was the 2008 International Nikon-Popular Photography Mentor Series Grand Prize winner and he is an exhibiting member of the Amelia Island Art Association in addition to the Omni Plantation Guild and Gallery. His Faces of Amelia Portrait series features many Amelia Island notables and can be seen in many local magazines and art publications. Leimberg and his wife, Joann are active members of the Amelia Island Jewish Community (AIJC).

to make social connections and find out the latest happenings in the community. The monthly event is a joint program of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and its partner River Garden Senior Services. The Jewish Federation’s Shalom Jacksonville is the official Jewish welcome wagon of Northeast Florida. If you are new to our community or are newly interested in Judaism or to RSVP for the program, please contact Isabel Balotin at 904-448-5000, ext. 1206 or via shalomjax@ jewishjacksonville.org. Upcoming speakers include Donna Orender, who is the CEO of Orender Unlimited and is a recognized business leader, trailblazer, game changer and executive. The past president of the Women’s National Basketball Association will speak at Java, Wednesday, Jan. 3.

Dec. Jewish Java to feature award-winning photographer Stephen Northeast Florida, Leimberg also Everyone is invited to join Jewish Java meets the first photographed famous author Pat the fun at River Garden Senior Wednesday of every month as Leimberg Conroy for the inner back flyServices’ Cohen Auditorium for newcomers and locals are invited BY ISABEL BALOTIN

Shalom Jacksonville Director shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org

Jewish Java’s December speaker Stephan Leimberg, who is also known as the ‘Birdman of Amelia’, is acclaimed for his stunning painting-like prints of birds and other Amelia Island wildlife and landscapes. An award-winning nature photographer living in

The bagel theory and our very real need to connect

BY ISABEL BALOTIN

Shalom Jacksonville Director shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org

In an article written by Jessica Levine Kupferberg on aish.com several years ago, she described ‘bageling’ and the ‘Bagel Theory’, which stands for ‘the principle that we Jews, regardless of how observant or affiliated we are, have a powerful need to connect with one another. To that end, we find ways to ‘bagel’ each other, or to basically ‘out’ ourselves to fellow Jews. Now there are two ways to bagel. The brave or simply unimaginative will tell you straight out that they are Jewish (a plain bagel). But the more creative will

concoct subtler and even sublime ways to let you know that they, too, are in the know. Yes, most of us have bageled and have been bageled many times. I, personally have bageled people in line at the supermarket, airport, local events and many other places. Every once in a while, I get bageled and it illustrates our deep and strong desire to connect with one another. Perhaps you have bageled or have been bageled and would like to share your experiences. Please take the time to send your Bagel Theory story to Isabel Balotin at shalomjax@jewishjacksonville. com.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

federation news Jax Jewish teen creates connections with Israelis at home and abroad

Champagne Brunch Continued from pg. 1 Campaign is required to attend. This annual fundraising event is chaired by Michelle Pargman and Lauren Rickoff. The committee includes: Arlene Adelson, Ellen Balotin, Sue Elinoff, Karen Gare, Faye Hedrick, Risa Herman, Claudia Margolies, Marcy Rudowitz, Rebekah Selevan, Lauren Setzer, Haley Trager and Talie Zaifert.

RSVP for the Champagne Brunch by Dec. 29 by calling (904) 448-5000, ext. 1201 or go to jewishjacksonville.org/cb2018. Kosher meals are available upon request. For more info about the event or to make your annual campaign contribution, contact Erin Cohen at (904) 448-5000, ext. 1205 or erinc@jewishjacksonville.org.

About the Actors

BY BARBIE GOLDSTEIN Teen Exchange Participant

Michael Lifshitz

Gail Byer

Byer is known by audiences all over the world. Her portrayals of wonderful women include both Golde and Yente in ‘Fiddler on the Roof ’, Anna in ‘The King and I’, and Nellie in ‘South Pacific’. But the most meaningful role she has been privileged to portray, is that of Golda Meir. “It is an honor and a mitzvah to speak the words and impart the philosophies of one of the most admired Jewish leaders of all time,” Byer said. “It is vitally important to keep alive the legacy of Golda Meir for all future generations.”

Michael Lifshitz is an actor, director, choreographer, producer, and believe it or not, accountant. Coming from a Federation family, and as a former member of the National Young Leadership Cabinet, he recognizes the importance of Jewish continuity and how our past defines our future. He has been portraying Theodore Herzl throughout the country, both solo and in tandem, with Gail Byer, who portrays Golda Meir. From Carbondale, Ill. to Lake George, N.Y., he has thrilled in the opportunity to present and educate people about the life of the ‘father’ of the Zionist movement. “Many people know of Herzl only as half a quote... I love giving the story behind the man,” Lifshitz explains. “He’s a fascinating individual who never stopped working for what he believed in.”

Give2gether Continued from pg. 1

Scan QR code to donate

The goal of the giving campaign is to kickstart the 2018 Campaign by raising $10,000 in 30 days. With that in mind, Federation is asking that those reading this article take a moment and

share the campaign’s official webpage (http://bit.ly/2iaUcUk) via Facebook or email. Through generous donors like you, we know that it’s not only possible to meet this goal,but to exceed it. Thank you for your participation and interest in this year’s campaign as your support makes an impact on the lives of so many in need here in Jacksonville, over in Israel and around the world.

Hebrew Home Hootenanny

Folk singer Dan Kossoff delighted folks at Jewish Java in November as he played a number of well-known American folk songs from yesteryear, stretching from Lead Belly to Bob Dylan. Some in the crowd were given musical instruments to strum along to as Kossoff belted out the tunes.

Before I tell you about my incredible trip to Israel, I would like to thank everyone at the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville for making this trip possible because it was without a doubt the best experience of my life. I became involved in this program when the Israelis were in Jacksonville for the last few summers. As a result of their visits, I made some great friends during the past two years and I really wanted to go and visit them in Israel. Before we even landed in Israel, all seven Americans bonded in the airport and on the overnight trip to Ben Gurion Airport. We were greeted by the Israelis we had been talking to for over a month via Whatsapp. It was such a great feeling seeing Sharon, the girl who I was partnered with, in person for the first time. We had talked about all of our common interests for more than a month. The trip

planners could not have done a more perfect job with picking the family who hosted me as Esty and Ami, Sharon’s parents, were so incredibly kind and personable while Sharon’s brothers, Misha and Tal, were so intelligent and kind. Givat Ada, was the town where I stayed, which was 15 minutes from Pardes Hanna. Once we initially arrived in Jerusalem, we walked around and saw all the sights I had learned about since Pre-Kindergarten and I think that was the best feeling I had when I was in Israel. Seeing everything I’ve known for almost 16 years and being able to be a part of its history was truly amazing. I think most of the Americans teared up when they saw the Kotel, and we also saw King David, multiple murals, the Jewish Quarter, and many other historical sites. One of the most memorable parts of staying in Jerusalem was the overnight at the hotel, where we had a dance party for the remainder of the night in the hallway of the hotel. During

the day, it’s all about absorbing the history; but at night, it’s all about having fun with the whole group. Another favorite experience was the overnight we spent in the Bedouin Tents. I thought it would be somewhat dirty because it was a tent in the desert, but it actually reminded me of the kind of resort a desert-wanderer would see in a mirage. It was so much fun because we rode camels, ate the best food and had another dance party. That’s when I found out I had so much in common with all the Israelis. The last day was a free day we had, where I was able to see the friends I had made from previous Tikkun Olam trips to Jacksonville, who I didn’t realize how much I missed until I saw them again. Ultimately it’s about the connections you make over there that makes Israel more special. I’m so happy I went on a trip with other teens from our other Partnership cities to Israel, as I couldn’t imagine going there and not taking part in this program.

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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2017

federation news

The Jewish Federation of Jacksonville thanks you for your support! We appreciate our donors and want to express this each month in the Jacksonville Jewish News. Thank you to the following donors who have made a commitment to support the 2018 Federation Annual Campaign as of Nov. 15, 2017. Names printed in BOLD denote a gift that was made since Oct. 15, 2017. Dr. and Mrs. Mark Abramson Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Ackerman Mr. and Mrs. Howard Alterman Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Alterman Mr. and Mrs. Marc Angelo Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Appelbaum Mr. and Mrs. Henry Arnold Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Bannon Mrs. Rita Baumgarten Mr. Jack Bazinsky Dr. and Mrs. Matthew Becker Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Beckerman Mr. and Mrs. Jean Benjamin Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Odell Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Ira Berger Mr. Martin Berger Mr. Daniel Bergman Mr. and Mrs. Mark Berman Mr. and Mrs. Larry Bernard Mrs. Adrienne Biber Mr. and Mrs. David Bielski Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Board Mrs. Josephine Bonnett Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bossen Mr. Wiatt Bowers Ms. Michelle Branly Mrs. Joyce Braun Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Breault Dr. and Mrs. Andy Brown Ms. Alison Brown Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Burke Mr. and Mrs. Howard Buss Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Chait Mr. and Mrs. Barry Chefer Mr. and Mrs. Allan Cheiken Dr. Colleen Bell and Mr. Craig Cherrin Ms. Susan Cherry Mrs. Rita Clark Mr. and Mrs. Norman Cohen Ms. Joanne Cohen Dr. and Mrs. Donald Cohen Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Cohen Mr. and Mrs. Edward Constain Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Datz Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Davis Drs. Leo and Joanne Davis Mr. and Mrs. Jim De Arman Mr. and Mrs. Moti Demri Mr. and Mrs. Scott Dreicer Ms. Nanci Duchovnay Mrs. Jody Dughi Mr. and Mrs. Alexius Dyer Mr. and Mrs. Martin Edwards Mrs. Lisa Eisenberg Mrs. Marie Eisenberg Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Farhi Ms. Harriet Feinglass Dr. and Mrs. Neil Feinglass Mr. and Mrs. Edward Feldman Mr. and Mrs. Alan Feldman Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Feldman Drs. Howard and Dina Fetner Mr. and Mrs. Neal Finkelstein Ms. Cheryl Fisch

Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Fischer Mr. and Mrs. Ben Fishman Mr. and Mrs. Martin Flamm Mr. and Mrs. Michael Fleet Mr. and Mrs. Michael Freedman Mrs. Marilyn Freedman Dr. and Mrs. Marc Freeman Mr. and Mrs. Sheldon Friedman Mr. and Mrs. Steven Friedman Judge Jerry Funk Mr. and Mrs. Harold Garber Ms. Nicola Garner Mr. and Mrs. Simon Garwood Mr. and Mrs. Larry Geller Mrs. Alois Gendzier Judge and Mrs. Marvin Gillman Mr. Peter Levy and Ms. Kim Glasgal Mr. and Mrs. Martin Goetz Mr. and Mrs. Irwin Goldberg Mr. David Golding and Ms. Leslie Carmel Mr. and Mrs. David Goldman Mrs. Hilda Goldman Ms. Bea Goldsmith Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Goldstein Mrs. Gloria Goodman Mr. Jonathan Goodman Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Gordon Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Gottlieb Mr. and Mrs. Chris Gould Dr. and Mrs. Jesse Greenblum Mr. Gerald Greenspoon Mr. and Mrs. Edward Grenadier Ms. Ilisa Griffin Mr. Matthew Grinnan Mrs. Dolly Grunthal Drs. Randall and Shoshana Haas Mrs. Bonnie Hardy Mr. and Mrs. Robert Harris Mr. and Mrs. Alan Harrison Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hedrick Mrs. Leslie Held Mr. Steven Heller Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Herman Mr. and Mrs. Brian Herschkowitz John and Helen Hill Mr. and Mrs. Jay Holiday Mrs. Wendy Honigman Mrs. Judith Israel Mr. and Mrs. Ted Jackrel Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Jacobs Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Jaffa Dr. Edward Joseph Ms. Sharon Juhasz Mr. and Mrs. Norman Kagan Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kahn Dr. and Mrs. Robert Kanner Dr. and Mrs. Larry Kanter Mr. and Mrs. David Kasriel Dr. and Mrs. David Katz Ms. Libby Katz Mr. and Mrs. Manfred Katz Mr. and Mrs. Howard Kaufmann Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kessler Mr. and Mrs. Rudolf Kigel Ms. Simone Kilbourn

Mr. and Mrs. Gil Kleiner Mr. and Mrs. Henry Kopp Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kornhauser Mr. and Mrs. Leo Kreisel Mrs. Carolyn Krestul Mr. Don Kupfer Dr. and Mrs. Ron Kushner Mr. Carl Kutlin Dr. and Mrs. Dennis Lafer Mr. Howard Laner Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Langer Mr. and Mrs. James Lawson Mrs. Naomi Lazar Ms. Jean Lebowitz and Ms. Thelma Lebowitz Mrs. Dorothy Legum Mr. and Mrs. Stephan Leimberg Dr. and Mrs. H. Ronald Levin Mr. and Mrs. Sam Lewis Ms. Suzanne Lichter Dr. and Mrs. Larry Lieberman Mr. Tyler Curl and Ms. Jessica Ligator Dr. Leonard Lipkin Mr. Mark Lodinger Mr. and Mrs. Herman Lodinger Ms. Lucille Lustig Mr. and Mrs. Richard Mack Ms. Gabrielle E. Magid Mr. and Mrs. Steven Mail Mr. and Mrs. Leonardo Maiman Mrs. Ilana Manasse Dr. and Mrs. Alan Marks Dr. Ronald Mars Mr. Ben Marsh Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Martino Dr. and Mrs. Mike Mass Mr. and Mrs. Adam McDonough Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Melamed Mr. and Mrs. Paul Metlin Mr. A.J. Michaels Mr. and Mrs. Tony Milian Mr. Daniel Miller and Ms. Lior Spring Mr. Glenn Miller and Mr. Michael Miller Mr. Michael Miller Mr. and Mrs. Richard Miller Mr. and Mrs. Todd Morse Mrs Marlene Myers Judge and Mrs. Bernard Nachman Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Nadler Dr. and Mrs. Peter Natale Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Neadle Drs. Steven and Tmima Neihaus Ms. Kym Newlen Mr. and Mrs. William Newman Mr. and Mrs. Robert Nied Mr. Andrew Ocean Ms. Gloria Oehlman Mr. and Mrs. Moshe Ohayon Mrs. Donne Ordile Ms. Sandra B. Overton Ms. Marilyn Pagano Mr. and Mrs. Michael Paisner Ms. Leah Palestrant Mr. Michael Pallen

The Executive Director’s Message: December Push for Cash Hopefully, most everyone in the community is aware that the Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation are progressing toward a merger. We hope this process will be complete by year-end as our volunteer leadership and staff look forward to assuming the responsibility for planned giving for our Jewish community. I wanted to take this opportunity to make an appeal for cash during the month of December because this is our most important time of year for seeking fulfillment of pledges to the annual campaign. There are a variety ways to pay our gifts to include cash, personal checks, gifting stocks and for some, making payments from our IRA’s. In addition to paying our pledges to Federation this month, December is also a great time to set up a donor advised fund or to add to an existing one. The Jewish Foundation of Northeast Florida is still in full operation and can accept additional payments to donor

advised funds. If you prefer, The Jewish Federation of Jacksonville can set up a new donor advised fund with you. If you have any questions, please contact me at 904-448-5000, ext 1207. Thank you very much and have a happy New Year. Alan Margolies

Federation Executive Director

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Mr. and Mrs. Brian Pargman Mr. and Mrs. Richard Passink Ms. Adele Paul Mrs Evelyn Peck Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell Perin Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Persky Ms. Laura Platzer Mr. and Mrs. Michael Platzer Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Plotkin Mr. and Mrs. Richard Plotkin Mrs. Lita Poehlman Mr. and Mrs. Steven Porter Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Portnoy Mrs. Anne Presser Ms. Terri Quint Dr. and Mrs. Marco Rand Mr. and Mrs. Joel Rappoport Mrs. Cornelia Rappoport Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Raudt Mr. Edward Witlen and Ms. Marie Reitzes Mrs. Barbara Resnick Ms. Sondra Resnikoff Dr. Deena Richman and Mr. James Richman Mr. and Mrs. Matt Rickoff Mr. and Mrs. William Rifkin Mr. and Mrs. Skip Roach Dr. and Mrs. Chaim Rogozinski Mr. and Mrs. Sam Rogozinski Ms. Danielle Rogozinski Mr. Jeff Rood Ms. Margaret Rose Mr. William Rose Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Rosen Mr. Jerome Rosenbaum Dr. and Mrs. Elliott Rosenbaum Mrs. Elaine Rosenthal Mrs. Sandi Roth Mr. and Mrs. Paul Rothstein Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Rothstein Mr. Simon Rothstein Mrs. Arlene Rubin Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Ruby Mr. and Mrs. Leif Rush Mr. and Mrs. David Saag Mrs. Carol Sack Ms. Daryl Sadowsky Ms. Eleanor Safer Mr. and Mrs. Neil Sandler Ms. Mitzi Saul Judge and Mrs. Jack Schemer Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Schemer Mrs. Shirley Schemer Ms. Amy Schemer Mrs. Frances Schemer Judge and Mrs. Harvey Schlesinger Rabbi and Mrs. Avi Schochet Mr. and Mrs. Allan Sebotnick Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Seebol Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Selber Dr. and Mrs. Robert Selwitz Mr. and Mrs. Robert Shafer Mr. and Mrs. Joel Shapiro Mr. and Mrs. Steven Shapiro Dr. and Mrs. Craig Shapiro

Mr. Harry Shmunes Dr. and Mrs. Michael Shumer Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Siegel Dr. and Mrs. Arnold Signer Dr. and Mrs. Raymond Silbar Mr. and Mrs. Federick Singer Mr. Michael Smalling Ms. Laurie Smirl Mr. and Mrs. Avi Smith Ms. Dianna Smith Mr. and Mrs. Eric Smith Drs. Todd and Catherine Snowden Mr. and Mrs. Eugolio Soliven Dr. and Mrs. Michael Solloway Mrs. Carole Solomon Mr. and Mrs. David Solomon Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Spill Mr. Rob Armstrong and Ms. Barbara Stafford Mr. and Mrs. Martin Steinberg Mr. and Mrs. Murray Stern Mrs. Ann Stone Mr. George Strumlauf Ms. Linda Stuart Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Sugar Dr. and Mrs. Saul Sussman Mrs. Marilyn Tanney Mr. and Mrs. Howard Teitelbaum Ms. Marion Tischler Mr. and Mrs. Marty Trachtenberg Mr. and Mrs. Jason Trager Mr. and Mrs. Fred Tromberg Ms. Esfir Tulchinskaya Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Ullmann Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Van Mr. and Mrs. Jules Wagman Mr. and Mrs. David Wagner Mrs. Margie Weinstein Mr. Daniel Weinstock Mr. and Mrs. Dan Weisberg Mr. Mitchell Weiss and Mrs. Gale Cohen-Weiss Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Weiss Dr. and Mrs. Gary Weltman Mrs. June Weltman Mr. Jeff Wiener Mrs. Linda Wilkinson Mr. and Mrs. Skip Willbach Dr. and Mrs. Bruce Witten Dr. and Mrs. Eugene Wolchok Mr. and Dr. Arnie Wolf Mrs. Carole Wolpin Mrs. Daiva Woodworth Mr. Leon Yergin and Ms. Caryn Kenny Mr. and Mrs. Donald Young Dr. and Mrs. Larry Young Mr. and Mrs. Dana Zaifert Mr. Sandy Zimmerman Mrs. Barbara Zimmerman

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adult education December 2017 Kislev/Tevet 5778

Special Events

December 5th

Jewish Community Alliance (7 – 8:30 p.m.) WRITE FATHER, WRITE SON: A BOND BUILDING JOURNEY – Author and educator Joseph Cohen details how he built a relationship with his son through letter writing. All are welcome as this event is in conjunction with the Temple and is free to the community. Advance registration is appreciated.

December 7th

Jewish Community Alliance (6:30 – 8:30 p.m.) AYURVEDIC MEDICINE: BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN EASTERN AND WESTERN MEDICINES – Join holistic health practitioner Dr. Jon Repole to explore this ancient practice and its role in modern functional medicine. The fee is $8 and $5 for JCA valued members.

December 9th

Jacksonville Jewish Center (9:15 a.m.) SHALOM MEDITATION - Please join us for 25 minutes of meditation in a Jewish environment. From 9:15-9:30, we will offer some basic instruction of meditation technique and approach. Then, we will start our actual practice at 9:30 and go until 9:55 (in time for the Torah service).

December 11th

Jacksonville Jewish Center (7:30 a.m.) JEWISH BOOK CLUB - Meets in the Starbuck’s section at Barnes & Noble on San Jose Blvd. This month’s book is ‘Terrorist Cop’, by Mordecai Dzikansky

December 16th

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

December 17th

Jacksonville Jewish Center (12:30 P.M.) YIDDISH CLUB - Our monthly meetings will held in the JJC’s Kramer Library. This is an informal group of all ages 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 the fun.

Regular Events

Sundays

Jacksonville Jewish Center (10:15 a.m.–12 p.m.) FOUNDATIONS OF JUDIASM CLASS - Classes are held at the JJC, and are open to all, whether you are considering conversion, seeking to understand a friend or relative’s religious choices, or simply trying to go beyond your childhood Jewish education. This month’s unit is ‘Contemporary American Judaism’, and is being taught by Rabbi Merrill Shapiro Classes held Dec. 3, 10, 17. Jacksonville Jewish Center (9:15–10 a.m.) BEGINNING HEBREW CLASS - This year’s class will be taught by Etta Fialkow covering Alef-Bet reading skills and fluency. Classes scheduled for Dec. 3, 10, 17. Jacksonville Jewish Center (10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.) HEBREW CONVERSATION This new class will be taught Dr. Melvyn Cohen using the Pimsleur Method. No Hebrew reading skills are needed; the class is completely oral. Please call Lois Tompkins and reserve your spot. Classes held Dec. 3, 10, 17. Jacksonville Jewish Center SERVICE SKILLS - (intermediate Hebrew level). This is an ongoing class, designed to increase prayer fluency and help our congregants to become more comfortable in our Jacksonville Jewish Center weekday and Shabbat services.

Basic reading skills are necessary, but we will work together on fluency and prayer vocabulary. New class is being formed to begin in January.

Jacksonville Jewish News • December 2017

Celebrating a special silver anniversary

Mondays

Jacksonville Jewish Center (morning following minyan) MONDAY MINYAN MAPQUEST - Rabbi Lubliner takes us on a tour of Jewish cities, explaining history and current statistics of some well-known and not-sowell-known Jewish communities around the world. Classes held Dec. 4, 11, 18. Jacksonville Jewish Center (7 p.m.) TALMUD CLASS - Rabbi Lubliner explores communal responses to crisis in tractate Ta’anit. Open to all and classed scheduled for Dec. 4, 11, 18.

Hemming Park to hold a ‘totally lit’ Chanukah party in Dec.

Photo by Larry Tallis - River Garden Senior Services held its 25th annual Gala fundraiser this past November at the Sawgrass Marriott in Ponte Vedra. The theme was ‘Shimmer and Stars, River Garden Foundation’s Silver Anniversary Gala’. This year’s gala chair Jeanine Rogozinski took part in help celebrating the gala’s cherished history in the Jacksonville Jewish community, along with celebrating ﬁrst gala chair Barbara Parker among the many others throughout the years. Dinner and dancing followed an online auction and the program on the main stage.

Can You Find Six Jacksonville Rabbis?

By Hemming Park

Join Hemming Park, Jacksonville Public Library and AVANT MUSIC for an introduction to the Chanukah holiday and its related traditions from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14, as attendees will enjoy music by Cantor Jesse Holzer and Koltrain of the Jacksonville Jewish Center, in addition to story time and crafts with JPL and dreidel games. There will of course be a menorah lighting doughnuts or sufganyot. This event is free and open to the public and is the ﬁrst in a year-long series of Hemming Park events designed to celebrate the diverse cultures of Jacksonville. Hemming Park is located at 135 W. Monroe St., downtown. For more information about participating in this event, please contact christina@hemmingpark.org.

Can you spot a half-dozen rabbis from Chabads here in Northeast Fla.? Rabbis Kahonov (Mandarin), Novack (Southside), Kurinsky (Beaches) Sharfstein (S. Johns), Vogel (S. Augustine) and Feldman (Clay Co.) were six of 4,700 in this photo who attended the International Conference of Chabad emissaries in late Nov. This picture was taken in Brooklyn outside of Chabad international headquarters at 770 Eastern Pkwy., in Crown Heights.

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