CELEBRATING IN STYLE 10 Years of the Girlfriend Connection
ROLLING OUT THE RED CARPET Jacksonville premier of Catskills themed film calls for encore presentation Page 6
WELL TRAVELED SCROLLS
America’s Torah makes a stop in Jacksonville
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JEWISH NEWS July
2015
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Tammuz/Av
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Son of Nazi officer turned Jewish convert to speak at Society of Healers event
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www.jewishjacksonville.org
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@jaxjewish
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A publication of the
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28,
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24
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Jewish community marks end of year with 24th annual celebration & meeting
BY ERIN COHEN
Women’s Division Director
When reflecting on the history of the Jewish people, particularly during World War II, we find what seems to be endless despair, misfortune and tragedy. However, entwined in the stories of heartbreak, also emerge tales of true courage, humilDr. Wollschlaeger ity and kindness. With this in mind, the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville’s Society of Healers, healthcare professionals division, is honored and humbled to welcome Dr. Bernd Wollschlaeger to our community for its next event. He will share his personal and professional journey which demonstrates that against all odds change is possible. The program will be held Sunday, August 30, at 10:30 a.m. at the home of gracious hosts, Dr. Mark and Mrs. Holly Emas. Dairy brunch will be served and we thank Mark and Holly in advance for opening up their lovely home to the community for this special morning. In addition to his accomplishments in the medical field, Dr. Wollschlaeger is also a renowned author and his book
See SOCIETY OF HEALERS, p. 4
Jeff Klein, Sue Nussbaum, Marsha Pollock, Alan Margolies, Sandy Zimmerman and Adam Frisch at the annual agency celebration and meeting
Keynote speaker Dr. Ken Stein impresses with knowledge & expertise of middle eastern affairs By Jewish Federation of Jacksonville
The Jewish community recognized the completion of another successful year during the 24th annual agency celebration and meeting, May 28th. The event was held at the JCA and featured a cocktail hour before the benediction which was given by Rabbi Howard Tillman of the Jacksonville Jewish Center. The night’s emcee, JCA president Adam Frisch then yielded the floor to former Federation president Richard Sisisky who formally installed the agencies’ new officers and board members for the coming
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cance of having all of the Jewish community agencies together under one roof for a night of pomp and circumstance. “It’s wonderful because we all have similar board members but they change and then we bring in new members and we get to meet them,” said Jewish Family and Community Services executive director Colleen Rodriguez. “We get to talk about all that we do, all that we accomplish and how we work together to serve the community.” “It’s really something special that we have here in Jacksonville,” Frisch explained. “That we’re actually able to combine all the big agencies here in town and have an annual meeting together is something that we all should be proud of.”
See ANNUAL MEETING, p. 12
Etz Chaim’s Rabbi Fisch makes impactful visit to Washington D.C. BY MATT FRANZBLAU
Federation Communications Director
Jewish Federation of Jacksonville
year. Once the evening’s official business was complete, Dr. Ken Stein, a professor of contemporary Middle Eastern history, political science and Israeli studies at Emory University, gave a spirited and authoritative analysis of the current climate in the Middle East. Dr. Stein’s speech covered some of the past issues and incidents which have led Israeli, Arab and American leaders to their present stance on the region and those who inhabit. “Great organizations attract great speakers so it is a testament to what all of our organizations here in Jacksonville have become to be able to attract somebody of the stature of Dr. Stein,” Frisch said. “It really shows how much we have evolved in the past 25 years and what we can look forward to in the next 25,” he added. The event, nearly a quarter of a century old is a unique one among its peers and those in attendance recognized the signifi-
Mike Nussbaum with Caren Appel
In early June, Rabbi Yaakov Fisch of Etz Chaim Synagogue joined the Orthodox Union’s Advocacy Center for its annual mission trip to meet with lawmakers and high ranking politicians in our nation’s capital. Rabbi Fisch was the lone clergy member from the northeast and central Florida regions to make the journey in hopes of conveying his thoughts and opinions on a host of issues, ranging from energy efficiency to the pressing matter of the United States’ negotiations with Iran and its nuclear program. The group of approximately 100 had a full slate of meetings and eating engagements with policy officials on the agenda, including a sit down with White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough. “We were actually thanked many times by the lawmakers for taking the time to come to Washington because they say it’s important for them to hear from citizens directly,” Fisch said about his most intimate and impactful trek to Washington. “They encouraged us to keep speaking up because ultimately they have to answer to their con-
stituents and they want their constituents to speak loud and strong on this.” The Rabbi’s day began in the house of representatives where the OU met with individual members of the legislative body. It then continued with a talk from Israeli ambassador to the U.S., Ron Dermer, who is also a native Floridian, born in Miami beach. The group was then treated to a Glatt Kosher lunch in the senate, where it heard from a number of prominent politicians throughout the meal, including New York senator Chuck Schumer, who said the country’s pending negotiations with Iran was possibly the single most important vote he will participate in during his 40 plus years in congress. In addition to the topic of Iran, Fisch and his cohorts were also able to speak at length about two other points of legislative action currently in front of U.S. lawmakers. The first, the Nonprofit Energy Efficiency Act, which is a bill aimed at providing grants to organizations such as the Orthodox Union in order to cut down on their energy costs and helping preserve the environment in the process. The second concerned the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which through
Rabbi Yaakov Fisch of Etz Chaim Synogogue joined fellow members of the Orthodox Union on a recent trip to our nation’s capital to meet with lawmakers and White House officials
See DC TRIP, p. 3
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
education
America’s Torah makes a stop in Jacksonville
Torah Academy of Jacksonville hosts school wide science fair BY NICHOLE DEESE
Torah Academy of Jacksonville
Students from the Torah Academy of Jacksonville are read inspirational messages on America’s Torah during the traveling exhibit’s recent visit
BY MATT FRANZBLAU
Federation Communications Director
Students at the Torah Academy received an interactive look into our people’s sacred text as the traveling educational vehicle tabbed ‘America’s Torah’ made a stop at the school in late May. Students of all grade levels took part in activities which included inking their Hebrew names on mezuzah parchment paper to writing special messages of encouragement and inspiration on a rotating torah scroll placed on the program’s official vehicle. Scribe Peretz Goldstein also took time to give students an in depth lesson on the torah and its profound place in Jewish life. “The main reason why we are bringing this program into the schools is because the youth is the future of this generation,” Goldstein explained. “They are the foundation of what we are trying to establish for a brighter future in this world.” Goldstein was studying at Talmudic University in Miami when he was presented with the opportunity to take part in this unique venture, which was created following the tragic death of Rabbi Joseph Raskin, who was gunned down last August while walking to a Miami synagogue. Goldstein and his team started their cross country trek in south Florida in March and have spent
the past few months making their way up the coasts of the Sunshine State, with Jacksonville being one of their final stops before crossing state lines. “We are not getting bogged down in the negativity,” he added. “But instead we are looking forward toward the future and showing society what it means to be an American and a Jew.” Goldstein’s crew has hit religious and public schools throughout the state as well as fire and police stations in addition to holding sit down’s with city leaders from Fort Lauderdale to Fort Myers. Their goal is to visit as many of the 50 states as they can, spreading their message of peace and understanding. “We are trying to go back to the core of what it means to be an American,” Goldstein explained. “In our constitution we have something that says ‘one nation under God’ and there is a reason it’s also on the dollar bill. This country was founded on precepts of faith, so we want to give that back to American society and show that we can all coexist.” The America’s Torah truck and RV made two more stops in the Florida panhandle before heading north to Alabama and the rest of the 49 states. For more information or to donate to the program’s cause, visit its official website at americastorah.org.
Block Gan’s Granfriends’ Shabbat spans the many Jewish generations
Both the young and the young at heart took part in a special Grandfriends shabbat put on by Michele Block Gan Yeladim’s Preschool
BY MOLLY SWEET
Michele Block Gan Yeladim
For Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool’s Grandfriends’ Shabbat, roughly 70 guests came to celebrate the Sabbath with their families for a truly intergenerational experience. The gather-
ing was led by Rabbi Lief from Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) as well as Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool Judaics teacher, Morah Karen Morse.
From experiments to in-depth explanations, it was all on display at the Torah Academy of Jacksonville’s schoolwide Science Fair. Held just before the conclusion of the school year in late May, students explored different scientific methods and even put a few to the test, while the entire solar system was examined and displayed along each hallway. To lead off the fair, first grade students were afforded the unique experience of performing actual experiments for their kindergarten and second grade counterparts. The hypotheses they tested were the differences between salt water and fresh water, if an object will reflect light or not, which bird beak is designed to crush seeds Students displayed the results of their experiments and what soil makes the best imprint. Stuon poster boards such as this one at the science fair dents also examined the age old question, ‘just because something costs more is it worth it?’ Some students had to overcome obstacles These labs allowed the students to experiment during those experiments, while others made it with hands on activities which they have learned look fairly simple. The judges had a very diffiabout throughout the year. cult time deciding the winners of the fair but afAfter watching the experiments in the auditer careful consideration, the following students ence, second grade students made presentations were recognized as best in show: about assigned planets they researched using the • Aliza Kaiser, who built a crane from sticks, library’s resources. They did this using a large thread spools and a cardboard box. Her hypothdisplay board and a 3-D model of their respecesis was testing its durability. tive planets. To wrap-up the fair, the Academy’s • Herschel Rabinowitz, who tested which type third graders conveyed their understanding of of water temperature dissolves Alka-Seltzer the scientific method by also displaying their retablets better. search findings on a display board. Accompany• Duvidle Rabinowitz, Yitzy Rabinowitz, and ing their boards were experiments or props from Chaim Goranson, who all worked together to experiments they conducted. test vehicle speed to weight ratio.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
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community news
Hilary Rotenberg JFCS Care Manager
July
DC Trip Continued from p. 1 the Department of Homeland Security provides grants upwards of $75,000 to nonprofit entities to better train their staff and better secure their facilities. “We were there to speak about the concerns those in our communities have about security,” Rabbi Fisch explained. “This program is slated to be severely downsized so we really wanted the lawmakers to know that this is something we need in order to worship in comfort,” he added. Originally the program was given $25 million to work with when it was created in 2005, but it is scheduled to be scaled back
“This is not only a concern for Israel … This is a concern for the United States as well.” –Rabbi Yaakov Fisch to just $13 million in funding. This initiative was spearheaded by the Orthodox Union and with the JFNA when it was established a decade ago. The capstone experience of the trip then took place in the afternoon when Rabbi Fisch, along with fellow members of the delegation, were able to talk with President Obama’s chief of staff about the United States’ ongoing negotiations and eventual vote on a nuclear deal with Iran. “We really emphasized to the lawmakers and the White House the concerns that we have,” Fisch said. “We didn’t just say in theory that we need a good deal with Iran but we emphasized that all the mainstream pro Israel organizations came around and offered five bullet points that we are insisting be included in the final deal.” Those five pillars for what the OU and its partners would see as a good deal include anytime and anywhere inspections, phased sanction relief, having Iran provide the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) with a complete report on its past
2015 nuclear activities in addition to the capability of dismantling the country’s machinery and lastly the duration of a brokered deal. “We really found that both members of the house and the senate were very receptive to this,” he added. “They are looking at it very seriously and it was reassuring to hear at least the President’s chief of staff saying that we were being well represented and that they were not going to just sign a deal for the sake of signing a deal.” Fisch and his peers were not the only ones in attendance that day who viewed this matter with a sense of urgency as members from congress spoke about what threats a nuclear Iran would pose to the U.S. “Iran has something called ICBM which stands for Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles, which can be outfitted with nuclear warheads,” he explained. “They don’t need ICBM’s for Israel because it is on the same continent but they are making them so that they can reach America, so it was encouraging to see how seriously they are taking it and it also gives us a big sense of responsibility that we should be engaged advocates in this process.” Following the important talks surrounding Iran, Fisch and the rest of his group were treated to dinner, where the French ambassador to the States, Gerard Araud spoke about what French authorities are doing to combat the rise of anti-Semitism in the country. Once Rabbi Fisch arrived back in Jacksonville, he had time to reflect on his visit with some of our nation’s most influential men and women. “It’s important for us to realize there are 535 members of congress, so we have to advocate to all 535 because these men and women are going to be voting on the P5+1 deal within a couple months,” he explained. “OU’s mission is to enhance Jewish life, so one aspect of that is advocating in Washington or at state governments for the interest of the Jewish community and it was an honor to take part in those efforts,” he added. For more information about the Orthodox Union’s Advocacy Center, it’s mission and its recent activity, go to advocacy. ou.org.
Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Hilary grew up working alongside her father to support Jewish seniors in a local nursing home. In fact, at the age of 12, she built a table in her living room for the nursing home’s Torah. Because of these early activities, it was not too far of a stretch to imagine that she was destined for a career in Jewish geriatric social work. After receiving her Master’s Degree in social work in 2002, Hilary worked for Jewish Family Services of Metropolitan Detroit before relocating to Jacksonville in 2009. As a result she found her way to Jewish Family & Career Services in 2013 following stints at a pair of community care facilities in the area. For the past two years Hilary has been working as a care manager for JFCS where her primary focus is making sure that Jewish seniors have the best quality of life possible. In her position, she works with families to ensure that everyone under her care is happy, healthy and safe. “My goal is to build a relationship of trust so that we can walk the journey together,” Rotenberg said about her work. “We try to design solutions to meet their needs along with their Jewish values.” Within this
last year, she and JFCS co-worker Naomi Miransky have worked with more 100 seniors and their family members to help accomplish that goal. The Jacksonville Jewish community reminds her of her Canadian home because it is so close-knit. “Here, everyone looks out and truly cares for one another,” she explained. Hilary is currently a member of the Jacksonville Jewish Center in addition to the Center’s Re:Mind Committee (working with mental health issues in the community). She also she serves as the JFCS representative to the Jacksonville Community Council’s ReThink Aging Initiative. Hilary and her husband Marc have two daughters, ages nine and five. She will celebrate her second anniversary with JFCS in a few months. If you have someone in mind you would like to nominate 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
River Garden Auxiliary to hold open house By River Garden Auxiliary
More than 90 years ago a group of Jewish women in Jacksonville formed what was known as The Ladies Hebrew Sheltering Aid Society. Their goal was to establish a home for the aged in the City of Jacksonville and Duval County. Although the name of the group has changed since its formation in 1922 and the location has shifted from Riverside to Mandarin, the people associated
with it continue to work toward the same goal, caring for the elderly. Today, River Garden Hebrew Home and Senior Services provides long term care, short stay programs, palliative care, adult day care, occupational, physical and speech therapy in addition to home health care. The facility is still supported by the Auxiliary’s many fundraising efforts and all of the money raised goes straight
to River Garden to support its many programs because enhancing the lives of residents is the group’s main focus. Membership to the Auxiliary is open to everyone and those interested in joining are invited for an open house, Sunday, Aug. 9, from 1-3 p.m. Questions or RSVP’s can be directed to Rhoda Goldstein at rhodagoldstein@ hotmail.com and Evelyn Peck at ijpeck@bellsouth.net.
Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
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community news
July Java presents American themed trivia for the fourth BY ISABEL BALOTIN
Shalom Jacksonville Director
Join us for the Federation’s monthly Jewish Java, scheduled for Wednesday, July 1 from 9-10:30 a.m. at Village Bread Café, located at 10011 San Jose Blvd in Jacksonville. Since the Fourth of July is approaching, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to test people’s knowledge of American history, so be sure to brush up on your state capitals, presidents and other interesting facts. Prizes will be awarded to the winners. If you are new to the area and are interested in meeting friendly locals or other newcomers, this is the program for you. Those in attendance will find out
about the latest happenings in the community and if you purchase a breakfast, you will get a free cup of coffee. For those who are not familiar, the Federation’s Shalom Jacksonville is the official Jewish welcome wagon of Northeast Florida. All programs are casual and are held in public spaces or individual homes. Events are designed to foster friendships and encourage community connections. It doesn’t matter how long you have lived in this area, you are always welcome to join us. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Isabel Balotin at 904-448-5000 x 206 or via shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org.
JJN Ad Directory - July 2015 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: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
B&C Financial (p. 14) Beachview & Party Rentals (p. 15) Beirut Restaurant (p. 22) Bob Ham Eyewear (p. 22) Brandon Pest Control (p.8) Davoli’s Catering (p. 12) DuBow Preschool (p. 13) Erica Jolles - Magnolia Properties (p. 15) Feed a Needy Neighbor Food Drive (p. 18) Heekin Clinic (P. 2) Impressions (p. 21) Innovative Financial Solutions (p. 14)
• • • • • • • • • • • •
JJN High Holidays (p. 7) JCA - Discover Israel (p. 24) Jerry Seebol (p. 21) Kutsher’s Movie (p. 15) Margo’s Catering (p. 10) Northeast Florida Conservatory (p. 16) PaigeWajsman-Creeks Realty Group (p. 15) River Garden Senior Services (p. 11, 20 & 23) Shalom Jacksonville (p. 13) Stein Mart (p. 10) The Tax Man (p. 21) Vandroff Insurance (p. 3)
For your advertising needs, please contact advertising sales representative Barbara Nykerk at 904.733.4179 or Eta Perras at 904.629.0466.
what's inside Business Directory...........p. 21 Classified Ads ...................p. 21 Community News..................... .........................p. 3-4, 6, 10-11 Editor’s Column .............. p. 22 Education ................................ ..................... p. 2, 8, 13-14, 16
Federation News ............. p. 12 Foundation .................... p. 19 JCFS ................................ p. 18 JCA ..................................p. 17 Lifecycles ..........................p. 21 Opinion ............................... P. 5 River Garden ................... p. 20
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Torah Academy of Jacksonville fundraising dinner a success
Photos by Larry Tallis
BY EMILY ROSENBAUM Torah Academy of Jacksonville
In late May, more than 150 people came to recognize the Torah Academy of Jacksonville during its 12th annual dinner and celebration. The theme for the evening was ‘the transforming of our children’, symbolized by beautiful butterfly decorations inspired by Kim Robbins. The dinner chairs included Robbins, Caren Appel, and Emily Rosenbaum and they chose this theme because the Torah Academy of Jacksonville not only transforms its students but also has itself transformed from a school of just five students to a flourishing institution with more than 60 pupils. The night began with a tour of the school, its classrooms, com-
Society of Healers Continued from p. 1 ‘A German Life: Against All Odds Change is Possible’ describes his struggle growing up in Germany in the shadow of his father, a highly-decorated World War II tank commander and Nazi officer. He eventually converted to Judaism, emigrated to Israel and served in the Israel Defense Forces as a Medical Officer. “When my children began asking about my parents and my past, I made the decision to tell them the truth about my family and my upbringing,” Wollschlaeger said. “I wanted them to understand what so dramatically changed my life, to give them a sense of knowing their family history in a way that was different than my own experience. Sharing with them in this way would cause me to explore the relationship between my father and myself, and how that relationship was overshadowed by the Holocaust and everything associated with it,” he added. “The unresolved conflict between my father and myself, combined with his complete denial of any wrongdoing, motivated me to search for answers. I found those answers within my newly acquired faith—and learned that against all odds, lasting change actually is possible.” Bernd Wollschlaeger, MD, FAAFP, FASAM is a board certified family physician who is in private practice in Aventura, Fla.
puter lab, library, and the newly renovated outdoor classroom and playground. It then continued with the presentation of awards which included two truly special couples, Fran & Russell Selevan, who received the Pillars of Jewish Education Award and Deborah & Steven Shapiro, who received the Kesser Shem Tov Award. The four were chosen because of their leadership and commitment to helping see the academy flourish. The honorees all spoke about the importance of the Torah Academy in their lives and why it is integral for them to support Jewish education. Dinner was held in the Etz Chaim social hall which was transformed into a gorgeous dining area where butterflies on branches were suspended from the ceiling. The meal began with
He received his medical education in both Germany and Israel, completing his residency training at Jackson Memorial Hospital, in Miami. Wollschlaeger went on to obtain additional training in addiction medicine and is a Fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Wollschlaeger also serves as a Voluntary Clinical Assistant Professor of Family Medicine at a number of south Florida schools, including Miami, Florida International and Florida State. Additionally, he is a former board member of the Florida Academy of Family Physicians (FAFP), and the past
president of the Dade County Medical Association (DCMA) in addition to the Florida Society of Addiction Medicine (FSAM). In 2012 he received the FAFP Family Physician of the Year Award and he is also the recipient of the 2014 German American Business Chamber Award of Excellence. Wollschlaeger is also an active member of both the AmericanJewish Committee of Greater Miami and Broward chapters and is the chair of Project Interchange an educational institute of AJC, which brings opinion leaders and policy makers to Israel for a week of intensive travel and learning. While there, participants experience Israeli society, connect with their Israeli counterparts and learn about the country’s extensive contributions to their fields.
Rachelli Fisch, a graduating eighth grader, sharing how the Torah Academy of Jacksonville helped her with public speaking, which is a tool she now uses as an advocate for Israel. Following her speech was a beautiful video, created by Jeanine Hoff, showcasing the students. Afterwards former student, Zev Lee, spoke about how his Torah Academy experience helped prepare him academically for The Bolles School. The evening concluded with remarks from president Larry Appel, who shared why the presidency is so meaningful to him. The school would like to thank its dedicated donors and many sponsors for making it the most successful evening in the history of the Torah Academy of Jacksonville.
This past spring, he released his most recent works, novels entitled ‘Samson’s Shadow’ and ‘Stauffenberg: My Live in the Shadow of a Hero’. He also actively participated in the documentary ‘The Ghosts of the Third Reich’, which aired in the U.S., Europe, Brazil and China. In addition he is producing a documentary named ‘Elias’ Dream: A Man’s Journey Toward Peace’, which highlights the issue of Jewish – Arab Coexistence in Israel. “Bernd Wollshlaeger’s story epitomizes everything that is decent about the human soul,” said Dr. Michael Lewis, chair of Society of Healers. “He represents the finest of the German nation creating real tikun for the actions of his forebearers, and in the process embraced the Jewish people. This program is going to be exceptional and I highly encourage our medical community to come out and hear his story.” Havura HaMarpeh/Society of Healers is a new Federation division for Jewish healthcare professionals in the Jacksonville community. This group was formed for the purpose of bringing all healthcare professionals together in support of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville’s mission, as well as for social/networking opportunities. The Federation is currently in the early planning stages for a Jacksonville medical professional’s trip to Israel in July of 2016. If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity or would like to inquire further about the August event, please contact Erin Cohen at erinc@ jewishjacksonville.org or 904448-5000 x 205.
Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
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opinion
Tempered Joy: Continuing a work in progress BY HAZZAN JESSE HOLZER Jacksonville Jewish Center
The very first commandment given to Israel before the great Exodus from Egypt was the observance of Rosh Chodesh, the acknowledgment of the new moon. Henceforth, the Jewish people have always been bound to sacred space and sacred time. Living in a secular world, events on our Jewish calendar often take on new meaning when they seemingly collide with major moments for the vast majority of our secular society. The sharing of the Major League Baseball playoffs and the High Holidays, ‘Thanksgivukkah’ or Memorial Day weekend and Shavuot are but a few of the occasions enhanced over the past few years by their unique juxtapositions. For the first time since 1863. The 17th of Tammuz falls on Shabbat, our weekly day of rest, and the Fourth of July, our nation’s Independence Day. The 17th of Tammuz is a fast day (the fast is observed on Sunday, July 5th) and commemorates a number of historical events. A few moments stand out for me. For instance,
the 17th of Tammuz occurs 40 days after the festival of Shavuot, in which we recall Moses ascending to Mount Sinai for 40 days. The 40th day was the one Moses broke the two tablets upon seeing the Golden Calf. Generations later, the 17th of Tammuz is most known for being the day that the walls of Jerusalem were breached, leading to the destruction of the Temple. This moment of breach begins a three-week period called bein hametzarim (between the straights), which leads to the Ninth of Av, the day commemorating the destruction of both temples; the saddest day on the Jewish calendar. The congruence of these three moments creates a whirlwind of sensations- the peace and serenity of the Sabbath, the raucous celebratory nature of Independence Day, and the deep contemplation amidst the collective sadness and pain of moments long-long ago that took place on the 17th of Tammuz. Taking these emotions head on requires balance, recognizing that each sentiment can help us grow as individuals and as a community. This sense of balance is not unknown throughout our customs and rituals.
Throughout the High Holiday season, we listen to the broken call of sh’varim, a reminder that we are all broken, that we all strive to better ourselves in a broken world. Our pilgrimage festivals are tempered by the recitation of Yizkor, the RABBINICALLY memorial service. The joy of a wedding is tempered by the breaking of a glass, which is a reminder of the destruction of Jerusalem, the brokenness all around us, and the responsibility of newlyweds to go forth and repair it. Independence is never handed to someone, but rather it is earned and fought for. Even when independence is realized, those moments of exultation are clarified knowing that freedom is never implied from here on in. It’s our
SPEAKING
responsibility to continue to fight for what is right and just. For one day we celebrate because the next day, the walls may be breached. Tomorrow, the tablets may crumble as we forget our collective mission- ohev shalom v’rodef shalom (love peace and pursue peace) for Klal Yisrael and all humanity. The Fourth of July and the 17th of Tammuz remind us of the fragility of this world and of our responsibility to share a sense of freedom with all. When Jerusalem’s walls were breached, the people had two options. Seeing the end in sight, those in Jerusalem could’ve responded like their brethren, generations later on Masada, who resorted to mass suicide. The Jews fought back for three weeks until the battle was lost. Losing Jerusalem was an immense tragedy for the Jewish people, but losing themselves would’ve been much more devastating. When pain and suffering surrounds us, even when it seems like the end is imminent, we must continue to fight for freedom. When our city denies the freedoms of all, it is incumbent upon us to forge ahead in signing a comprehensive Human Rights Ordinance. When our American
Jewish community is sullied by a group of rabbinic leaders who lack proper boundaries, we must work even harder to paint a picture of a synagogue community that is safe, meaningful and open. When our modern day Israel struggles to hear the voices of all, we must fight for religious pluralism. Our values should never be compromised on this journey to perpetuate freedom for all. As the Fourth of July fireworks blast off, they will no doubt shine brightly into the night’s sky. May their brightness illuminate both the struggles of this world and the tools to repair it and may we continue to find ways to celebrate together. Amidst the fragility of time and space, may we celebrate the way in which we live our lives, bringing freedom and love to all who are in need. As the famous Greek philosopher Anonymous once said, “A life well loved is a life well lived.” Hazzan Holzer serves as the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s cantor, where he facilitates all the music for services and the musical groups as well as overseeing the b’nei mitzvah program. In addition to those responsibilities he also teaches music and tefillah skills in the all of the schools of the Galinsky Academy.
Shalom Jacksonville: A new neighbor’s experience BY DENNIS BAIR
Florida Baseball Academy
Shalom, Jacksonville! My name is Dennis Bair and I am Jewish. I recently moved here from the Steel City (Pittsburgh Pa.), where I was a member of Beth Hamedrash Hagadol – Beth Jacob Synagogue, led by legendary Rabbi Stanley Savage. I grew up at Temple B’nai Israel in McKeesport, Pa., under the direction of Rabbi Leonard Winograd and I am a proud alum of the Naiditch House. I also happen to be a former professional baseball player, drafted by the Chicago Cubs as a pitcher, but I moved to the Jacksonville area to become the pitching coordinator for the Florida Baseball Academy in St. Augustine. A few months before moving here, I called Isabel Balotin of Shalom Jacksonville and I was pleasantly surprised with what a delightful lady she was. After a brief conversation, she put me in touch with another former Jewish athlete in the area, Jeff Manin. In the tradition of Abraham, Jeff and his son Harrison opened their home for me to stay and on my first Sunday here in Jacksonville, Jeff took me to the Jewish Center for its weekly Jewish men’s softball game. There I met Dan Wohl who is the commissioner of Jewish softball in Jacksonville and I
could tell by his handshake that this guy could play. Before the game, I looked around and saw a field full of older guys whipping the ball around and announcing their presence with authority.
Dennis Bair These guys were hitting the ball hard and making all sorts of great plays. During the game, I met a skilled competitor named Paul Metlin. He introduced himself to me and tried to spike me at the same time, like a kosher Ty Cobb; as you can imagine we became instant friends. It turns out we are both Allderdice High School graduates from the Pittsburgh area, so it was nice to meet someone down here from my own backyard. I was even invited to his wife Jill’s Bat Mitzvah at The Temple. Later in the fall as my Jewish
Jacksonville experiences grew, I attended Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services at Chabad. I was blown away by the rabbi’s sermon as it was so rich with Jewish knowledge. I was lucky enough to meet a very warm and inviting man inside the Jewish Center named Don Kriss, who smiled and told me I was in the right place. Don and I are of similar size and strength, and it felt good to be with a fellow big and tall Jew. He introduced me to Danielle Berke, who ushered me in to meet the rabbi. Rabbi Lubliner was brilliant right off the bat and I felt like I was in my manager’s office again, but this time not for missing curfew! I can see why - he is respected as such a great leader here, because he made me feel like an important part of the community from day one. He even took me over to the Mikvah at Etz Chaim, and invited me to Passover Seder. Aside from my baseball and synagogue experiences I also atteneded a Jewish Java meeting with Isabel. While there, I learned that there are more than 50 Holocaust survivors here in Jacksonville and I wanted to volunteer to spend time with them. As it turned out, the work they needed was all on the computer, which is not my specialty. Instead I was asked if I could help work with the younger Jewish popula-
tion in the area as a tutor. Since I coach young players for a living, I figured it was a no brainer. Every Wednesday I began to go to the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, where I acted as the reading tutor for several outstanding young Jewish boys. Together, we read a lot of Dr. Seuss books, wrote essays on ipads, threw footballs and told a lot of jokes. Cindy Land, Lori Wayne and all of the staff members at the school made me feel like a celebrity. To the many other Jews in Jacksonville who I’ve met and to those I haven’t yet, thank you
for making me feel so welcome in your community! I know when we are united as Jews, we open ourselves up to receive G-d’s divine gifts and I have received many gifts here. Because of this, I am proud to be counted among you. Those new members of the community here in Jacksonville wanting to become involved with Jewish life and activities can contact Isabel Balotin, Shalom Jacksonville Director at 904-4485000 ext. 206 or shalomjax@ jewishjacksonville.org
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JEWISH NEWS Advertising Representatives Barbara Nykerk • 904.733.4179 Eta Perras • 904.629.0466 Editor & Communications Director Matt Franzblau • mattf@jewishjacksonville.org Communications Committee Jon Israel, Chair Shirley Bielski Helen Hill Michele Katz Joan Levin Andrea Mail Rachel Morgenthal Andrew Ocean Marsha Pollock Federation President Sandy Zimmerman 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 deadlines: 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.
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community news
Test your tennis skills on the courts at the JCA BY IMAN BYFIELD
Jewish Community Alliance
The JCA tennis department offers several programs throughout the year to help players of all ages and proficiencies reach their tennis goals. With summer upon us, JCA Tennis continues to offer quality instruction with ongoing clinics for men, women and children as well as the addition of two new instructional sessions. The additions to the JCA’s lineup include two weekend tennis clinics. The Youth Tennis Clinic for kids ages 7-10 is offered from 4-5 p.m., on Saturday’s. This program is for beginner and intermediate players and was designed so children would
be able to learn the game in a way that is fun and interesting. The adult Stroke of the Week Clinic will be held Saturdays from 5-6 p.m., as players can learn a different stroke each week during an intensive drill session. JCA Tennis will also continue to offer clinics during the week this summer for children ages 4-18. For that age group, there are several beginner to
Sterman takes home national advocacy award
advanced programs, including Pee Wee Quick Start Tennis, Junior Quick Start Tennis, Junior Varsity and Varsity Tennis. For adults, the JCA offers tennis teams for both women and men. The women’s teams ranges from levels A to C, in addition to a new working women’s team. The men also have their 3.0-3.5 clinic and beginners can join Tennis 101 to learn the basics or even schedule a private lesson with one of the JCA’s professional instructors. For those interested, league play begins in August and continues through April 2016. For more information, contact Reggie at 904730-2100, ext. 317 or email him at reggie.exum@jcajax. The JCA will hold two additional tennis clinics this summer, the stroke of the week clinic for adults as well as the youth tennis clinic for kids ages 7-10 org.
Welcome to Kutsher’s delights sold out crowd, encore screening set for Aug. 2 Photos by Larry Tallis
A capacity crowd was on hand at River Garden to view the Jacksonville premier of ‘Welcome to Kutsher’s’
Food and familiar faces could be found prior to the screening of the much anticipated Catskills film
Gail Sterman (left) being presented the award by Dorothy Pacella, president of the National Friends of Public Broadcasting
BY STAN CLEILAND WJCT
Congratulations to WJCT Board Member Gail Mendelson Sterman who was recently given the National Friends of Public Broadcasting’s Grassroots Advocacy Award. Sterman, who is also a Board Member of the Association of Public Television Stations (APTS), received the award in Austin, Texas, during the annual PBS meeting.
The Grassroots Advocacy Award is given to a volunteer or coordinator who has demonstrated leadership skills in organizing, maintaining or enhancing a grassroots government advocacy program at their station resulting in a significant contribution to that station or to the public media system. Mendelson Sterman is also a member of the Board of Trustees at Congregation Ahavath Chesed, The Temple.
Jax Jewish Singles Samples Culinary Creations By Jax Jewish Singles
Join the Jax Jewish Singles for Sunday brunch in July as it samples the offerings from Kitchen on San Marco which is a learning lab for students from Culinard, the
Culinary Institute of Virginia College. Everything is made fresh with local and regionally sourced ingredients. Contact Francine for the exact date and time at 904221-8061 or email her at francine. smith@comcast.net.
River Garden Director of Marketing, Skip Willbach holding court before the feature presentation
BY ISABEL BALOTIN
Shalom Jacksonville Director
One could hear a pin drop in the Cohen Auditorium at River Garden last month as nearly 130 people watched the film Welcome to Kutsher’s, a unique look at life in the Catskills. The nostalgic morning brought back many memories for those who vacationed or worked in the area and whatever their connection was to the Borscht Belt, the film conjured up all kinds of memories. Due to the tremendous response and long wait list, an encore presentation has been
River Garden CEO Marty Goetz posing with some fellow fans of the Borscht Belt after the theatrical premier
scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 2 at 1:30 p.m., again in the Cohen Auditorium at River Garden Senior Services, 11401 St. Augustine Road. Desserts and coffee will be served prior to the screening as this joint program is offered free of charge by the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and its partner River Garden Senior Services. Even those without Catskills connection are able to enjoy the documentary as it’s a revealing look into an important period of Jewish history and culture. Attendees are encouraged to invite their friends to the encore as well. Shalom Jacksonville would like to thank Martin Goetz, CEO
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or River Garden, Skip Willbach, Director of Marketing for their support of the program and the use of their wonderful facility. A special shout out goes to the friendly and patient Mimi Kaufman for taking reservations and Larry Tallis, a truly talented and professional photographer. Shalom Jacksonville looks forward to continuing its partnership with River Garden and bringing the film to other venues in Northeast Florida in the coming months. For more information or to RSVP to the next showing, please contact, Mimi Kaufman at 904-880-4014 or events@jewishjacksonville.
org .
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Deadlines
All news, photographs, etc., must be received by the 6th of each month; all ads must be received by the 15th of each month and sent to jjn@jewishjacksonville.org.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
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EDUCATION Torah Academy of Jacksonville names new head of general studies
Michele Block Gan Yeladim summer camp boasts stellar and experienced staff
These four directors at JCA Summer Camp have a combined 70-years of experience in the industry
BY MOLLY SWEET
Michele Block Gan Yeladim
Victoria Goodyear will be the Torah Academy of Jacksonville’s new head of general studies and comes to the First Coast from south Florida By Torah Academy of Jacksonville
The Torah Academy of Jacksonville is pleased to announce a new position within its school structure: the position will be head of general studies, filled by Victoria Goodyear. Goodyear comes to Jacksonville from south Florida, where she most recently spent three years as a curriculum specialist and response to intervention coordinator at a pair of Franklin Academy Schools. Goodyear will relocate to Jacksonville in July to take this assignment and will report to Rabbi Shaya Hauptman, the Academy’s Head of School. This new position is responsible for general studies curriculum standards, development and implementation in all grade levels. “I really am so very thrilled at this opportunity,” Goodyear said. “Everyone has made me feel welcomed and a part of the Torah Academy family. I am look-
ing forward to embarking on this journey of excellence!” Aside from her educational experience in the Sunshine State, Ms. Goodyear has also spent time overseas in Abu Dhabi as a curriculum specialist, participating in major education reform in the Middle East. Before becoming a curriculum specialist, Goodyear spent 10 years as an elementary education teacher and in addition to her leadership and instructional experience, she also has secured many community based partnerships and grants for her past schools. She possesses a Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education and Master’s degrees in Education with concentrations in curriculum and instruction as well as a educational administration. Outside of school, Goodyear likes to spend time relaxing and volunteering at the beach.
Martin J. Gottlieb Day School students shine at national competition By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
The Martin J. Gottlieb Day School is proud to announce that three of its middle school students have brought home awards after participating in the Teen ELI Talk Contest. Jewish Day School students from around the country were invited by the Schechter Day School Network to participate in the event and three of the top five honorees were students at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School. The event was open to students in grades 6-12 across the U.S., with the goal of inspiring and rewarding students and schools who embrace passion, curiosity and 21st century learning. ELI Talks are inspired by Jewish ideas and address issues of Jewish religious engagement (E), literacy (L), and identity (I). Originally inspired
by TED Talks, the mission of the program is to go beyond the mere sharing of great ideas to real engagement, while sparking deep conversations about the implications of those ideas for the community. ELI Talks are given by some of the Jewish world’s most thoughtful and inspiring personalities.
For eight weeks during summer, the Jewish Community Alliance becomes the daily home to roughly 700 campers who from early morning to late afternoon, are busily engaged in many fun activities. With the first session now complete, camp is off to a smooth start thanks to the hard work and preparation of the JCA summer camp staff. With a combined 70-years experience between all camp directors and a consistent staff of year-round employees to go along with a comprehensive training program for all camp counselors, it’s no surprise that the JCA’s summer
camp operates so successfully, year after year. The capable summer camp directors are no stranger to the facility as they are also JCA department directors during the school year. “Camp is a yearround project for us because as soon as summer camp is over, we start making preparations for the next year,” said Camp Gan Yeladim Director Theresa Levy. “That’s how we are able to make camp such a great experience each year.” In addition to the camp directors, several of the counselors are year-round employees. “Of our Camp Gan Yeladim and KinderCamp staff, most are also year-round teachers, making them trained and confident edu-
cators,” said Rochelle Golomb, Michele Block Gan Yeladim assistant director. The same also rings true for several Camp Sabra and Habonim counselors, who are year-round employees in the youth services department. Although much of the JCA summer camp staff is already highly trained, in the days leading up to camp, all staff members participate in a professionally led, in-service counselor training program to further develop leadership skills, recreational activity ideas and other tricks of the trade to better prepare them for summer. Equipped with a wonderful staff and a full slate of fun activities, JCA Summer Camp looks forward to continuing its great summer schedule ahead.
Michele Block Gan Yeladim welcomes McNamee to speak at annual symposium BY MOLLY SWEET
Michele Block Gan Yeladim
During the past six years, the Annual Michele Block Gan Yeladim Early Childhood Education Symposium has become a significant event for the Jacksonville community. Drawing teachers from across the area, the symposium offers the chance for early childhood educators to hear the insights of eminent scholars in the teaching field. From the keynote speaker to break-out sessions with clinicians, the evening celebrates the early childhood profession and encourages educators to pursue continual professional development. This year, Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten faculty members are eager to welcome keynote speaker, Professor Gillian McNamee, who is the director of Teacher Educa-
Professor Gillian McNamee
tion at the Erikson Institute, one of the nation’s premier graduate schools in child development. In addition to her role at Erikson, McNamee is also the co-director of the Assessment for Teaching and Learning Project, interim director of the New Schools Project
and has co-authored two books: ‘Early Literacy and Bridging: Assessment for Teaching’ and ‘Learning in Early Childhood Classrooms’. During this year’s symposium, entitled Creating Wonder, Dr. McNamee will speak to participating educators about developing their unique ability to tap into, nourish and celebrate each child’s sense of wonder. If last year is any reflection of the success of the event, the seventh annual Michele Block Gan Yeladim Early Childhood Symposium promises to be worthwhile for all who attend. Creating Wonder will take place, Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 5:30 p.m. For more information or to register contact Rochelle Golomb at 904-730-2100 ext. 259 or e-mail her at Rochelle. golomb@jcajax.org.
Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
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synagogue news
Joyful learning is alive and well at the Jacksonville Jewish Center BY LOIS TOMPKINS
Principal, Bernard & Alice Selevan Religious School
Following a highly successful year in which the Bernard & Alice Selevan Religious School introduced a number of innovative new programs, registration is now open for those parents wishing to enroll their children for 2015-16. This past school year saw the implementation of a number of new initiatives including Judaism through the Arts, the Online Learning Cen-
ter, and a new family Shabbat program. Classes are filling up quickly though as this coming school year will feature these exciting programs as well as some new components such as schoolwide mitzvot and expanded T’fillah experiences with the clergy. With one full year of this program now under its belt, the school’s staff has been able to further customize and improve the arts and online programs and cannot wait to share it with
Temple Bet Yam installs new board of trustees
the incoming crop of students this fall. Detailed information can be found on the school’s official website at www.basrs.org, visit the ‘Parent Portal’ to register. For those wanting to receive a firsthand glimpse of the school’s signature programming and award-winning curriculum, call principal Lois Tompkins at 904-268-4200 ext. 146 to schedule a comprehensive tour and in-person meeting.
This past school year saw a number of new initiatives at the Alice Selevan Religious school including Judaism through the arts and online learning center in addition to a family Shabbat program
The Temple Turns Jewish education upside down with innovative approach BY NAOMI CHASE
Temple Religious School Director
BY CAROL GLADSTONE Temple Bet Yam Publicity Chair
Temple Bet Yam installed its 2015-16 Board of Trustees last month. They are: President:Terri Kamm, Vice President: Al Sibarium, Treasurer: Art Rogove, Recording Secretary: Marcia Rector, Financial Secretary: Nancy Sorkin, Corresponding Secretary: Rhona Botnick, Immediate Past President: Barbara Carman, Constitution/Parliamentarian: Ileine Hoffman, Facilities: Jeff Kamm, Lifelong Learning: Elliot & Min Stone, Membership: Barbara Rogove, Newsletter: Bev Darkatsh, Publicity: Carol Gladstone, Religious School: Denise Mensh, Ritual: Chuck Meiselman, Social Justice; Joe and Andrea Marx,
Ways and Means: Dinah McNamara and Shelly Cohen. Additionally, the Men’s Club President is Bernie Levy and the Sisterhood President is Jackie Witte. The Religious School is led by its new director, Heather Naughton. Temple Bet Yam, led by Rabbi Fred Raskind, is an active and welcoming, Reform congregation, located at 2055 Wildwood Drive in St. Augustine. The congregation has a long history of involvement in the community. The Religious School welcomes children from pre-school (four years) through B’Nai Mitzvah, with additional opportunities for teenagers. For further information go to templebetyam.org. or call 904-819-1875.
UNF Holocaust professor to give talk at The Temple By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
“Learning is a lifelong process of keeping abreast of change and the most pressing task is to teach people how to learn,” said Peter F. Drucker, Austrian-born American management consultant, educator and author. He is described as the founder of modern management theory. At the Temple, we agree with Mr. Drucker, that’s why we are training our faculty this summer in new instructional methodologies and building a collaborative spirit among them. “Teachers teaching teachers makes for a highly productive practice as it places colleagues in alternating roles of leadership and learning,” explained Associate Rabbi Matt Cohen. In addition to new Hebrew instructional models, Torah will be taught through ‘Philosophical Inquiry’ at all grade levels. This method fosters curiosity and questioning,
the precursors of critical thinking and collaborative problem solvg Students will share with and ing. inspire one another in addition to learning to respect the diversity of their perspectives. They will link themselves with a historic Jewish tradition after which this method is modeled. Additionally, it is the Temple’s goal to bring a fresh approach to the teaching and learning of a prized Jewish value, Tzedakah, righteousness. The Temple’s social action initiatives will be linked with its B’nei Mitzvah tzedek projects to classroom learning and to the expression of learning in real time. Eighth graders will also
study prophets and reform Judaism while confirmation students will meet community leaders and exemplars of Jewish philanthropy, civic engagement, social and religious services. Library, music and art will be threaded throughout the curriculum to diversify instruction and add depth and scope to the whole educational profile. The very important subject of Israel will be taught with new technologies and curricula that explore teaching the modern state first, then and now and showing the progression from its biblical roots and ancient significance. Parents are always invited and welcomed into the classrooms for shared learning experience as each Sunday morning will begin with T’filah, which models Jewish communal worship and Reform Jewish practice. Through its curriculum and programming, the Temple believes that Jewish learning is and will continue to be a lifelong endeavor.
Jacksonville Jewish Center Men’s Club Honors Arlene Yegelwel with award By Jacksonville Jewish Center Men’s Club
University of North Florida Professor Theo Prousis is scheduled to speak about the Holocaust, Thursday, July 16 at The Temple. Prousis has been teaching students about the event for more than two decades and will be talking about the tragedy as a moral touchstone for the Jewish people. The longtime professor received his Ph.D. in European History in 1982 and began working at UNF two years later. A few semesters into his teaching career, he determined that because so much of European history intertwines with the Holocaust, an independent course should be taught on the subject. Dr. Larry Kanter once took the course and was impressed by Professor Prousis’ passion for teaching the material. Prousis was invited by Dr. Kanter to speak at Temple after asking him why, as a gentile, he
is so passionate about the Holocaust and compelled to teach this important subject to his students. Ironically enough, Professor Prousis grew up in Skokie, Ill., which was a community that at one time had many Holocaust survivors living in it. After just five years of instruction at UNF, he was tenured in 1989 and promoted to full professor in 1996. In 2006 he received the University’s highest academic honor when faculty members recognized him as a distinguished professor, honoring his overall excellence in teaching, scholarship and service. The entire community is invited to attend and refreshments will be served prior to the talk, which is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Lawrence and Kathy Kanter Foundation for Jewish Preservation.
Martin J. Gottlieb Day School kindergarten teacher Arlene Yegelwel was recently recognized for all of her hard work inside the classroom as she was given the Brit Hinukh (Covenant of Education) Award by the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s men’s club. Represented by Dave Schmerer, the club presented her with the honor at the Galinsky Academy’s annual PTA Teacher Appreciation Dinner. Yegelwel, who began her teaching career in Charleston, S.C., holds a Master’s Degree in guidance counseling. She has been helping shape young minds at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School for almost 14 years now. Arlene Yegelwel (center) is presented with the Brit Hinukh (Covenant of Education) Award from the Jacksonville Jewish Center men’s club at the Galinsky Academy’s annual PTA Teacher Appreciation Dinner
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community news JCA heads to sea on special cruise No other day like Opening Day!
From Oct. 19-24, the JCA’s senior adult program department will set sea aboard Carnival’s Fascination cruise ship to the Bahamas By Jewish Community Alliance
The Jewish Community Alliance is known for bringing diverse, quality senior adult programming to the Jacksonville Jewish community. From mature adult fitness and recreational activities to arts and entertainment, the JCA continues to offer new programs and opportunities for mature members of the community to stay fit, learn new skills and most of all have fun. Following recent trends showing an increased interest in cruises among senior adults, the JCA is taking its mature adult members on a cruise this coming October. From Oct. 19-24, the JCA’s
senior adult program department will board Carnival’s Fascination cruise ship right here in Jacksonville for a wonderful trip to the Bahamas. The five night stay will include stops in Freeport and Nassau, as adults ages 50 and over are invited to catch some sun, tour the islands, sample fine food and enjoy nightly entertainment. The reservation deadline for this program is Aug. 20, and the cost of the trip includes transportation from the JCA to the port as well as all taxes, fees, cancellation and medical insurance. For complete details, including cabin options and cost, contact Sandy Oasis at 904-730-2100 ext. 322.
Etz Chaim Men’s Club to hold general elections By Etz Chaim Men’s Club
Etz Chaim Synagogue’s Men’s Club will hold its next general election, Sunday, Aug. 2 at 5 p.m. A complimentary dinner will be served to all paid members who attend. The event itself is open to any male member of the Jewish Community and the same goes for those wishing to put their names up for consideration of office.
Dues are $25 per year and must be submitted to the synagogue office by Friday, July 24 in order to be eligible to vote. All those wanting to have their name placed on the ballot must email Hashap@gmail.com no later than Friday, July 3. Please call 904-262-3565 for further information about the club or it’s upcoming election.
Center Softball kicked-off the 2015 season in early June with more than two-dozen participants coming to the ball field at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Both teams took turns cranking out hits and runs, but it was ultimately the team with one Rabbi that came out on top versus the team with a pair of Rabbi’s by an 11-10 score. Those interested in playing can contact Dan Wohl at dwohl@bellsouth.net.
Selling in Style: A BMW Party Felice Caliestro became the first Mary Kay sales agent in northeast Florida to win a BMW. This is her 16th Mary Kay earned automobile, but the first that’s black. Believe it or not the previous 15 were all pink! Congratulations Felice on this most unique and momentous accomplishment!
Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
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community news Etz Chaim’s WIFI provides unique Jewish Jacksonville Hadassah to hold annual summer book review experiences for Jacksonville women BY HELEN HILL
Jacksonville Hadassah
BY SYLVIA JAFFA Etz Chaim WIFI
This past year, WIFI, Etz Chaim Synagogue’s Women’s Informal Inspiration Group, hosted a series of free and exciting events for women all over Jacksonville. Together, more than 65 women had the opportunity to bake uniquely flavored hamentashens, learn the secrets behind making delicious challahs and creating stunning cheesecakes for the holiday of Shavuot in addition to designing beautiful fruit platters for the holiday of Tu B’shvat. At each women-only event,
inspirational words of wisdom were shared and new friends were made. A special thank you should be extended to all the gracious hosts of WIFI events during the past year for opening up their homes and making these events possible. Those include Carrie Bielski, Allison Jacobs, Andrea Mail and Paige Wajsman. The group is also fortunate to have had teachers like Henny Fisch and Devora Feigenbaum, who delivered insightful and spiritual messages at each event while also providing incredible baking tips. Jeanine Hoff, Director of rGEN, a division of the
Jewish Federation of Jacksonville helped co-sponsor WIFI’s Purim and Shavuot program. Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum of Etz Chaim created WIFI as an opportunity for Jewish women in the community to meet, inspire and build relationships while celebrating Jewish holidays. There will be more exciting WIFI events when it returns this fall with a jam packed calendar. For more information on upcoming events or the group itself, please contact Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum at 904-262-3565 ext. 12 or by e-mail at rabbifeigenbaum@etzchaim.org.
Learning how to take charge of one of the most important decisions you will ever make BY DR. SUE LEGER-KRALL River Garden Director of Home and Community-Based Services
Life is full of important events and milestones, all of which help shape our decisions. We choose which school to attend, we select the person with whom we hope to spend the rest of our lives, but the decisions associated with life and health issues can run the emotional gamut. This is because they may be joyful decisions, such as if and when to have children, but they also may be as stressful as choosing a course of therapy after a difficult diagnosis.
One decision you do not want to leave to chance is who will make the decisions concerning your resuscitation options should you collapse and need CardioPulmonary Resuscitation or CPR. Few of us wish to make these difficult choices and human nature often leads us to make no decision at all. Unfortunately, at that time it is then too late and someone else must decide - usually the emergency medical technician or EMT when rescue services arrive at your door. This month a panel of River Garden experts will discuss this most important topic during a forum entitled, ‘Making Informed
Choices About AND (Allow Natural Death) and DNR (Do Not Resuscitate)’. The panel is scheduled to take place Thursday, July 9 and will consist of Dr. Marcela Dobren, M.D., Baptist Health; Dr. Sue Leger-Krall, Ph.D., ARNP; and Elliott Palevsky, MA. The event will be held at River Garden’s Cohen Auditorium, starting at 5 p.m. with refreshments and the discussion is scheduled to take place from 5:45 – 7 p.m, there will also be time for a brief Q&A. Please be sure to RSVP no later than Monday, July 6 by calling 904-288-7851 or by sending an email to jglassman@ rivergarden.org.
Temple Offers a Taste of Judaism in July By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
Are you curious about Judaism, or do you know someone who might be? Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) is wetting appetites and satisfying cravings for that very learning and connection with an appetizer known as “A Taste of Judaism.” The event is an opportunity for anyone, at any level, to connect and learn about Judaism,” said Senior Rabbi Joshua Lief. “Jews can join us for a refresher course,
non-Jews from the larger community are welcome to participate as an introduction to Judaism and those Jews who are currently not affiliated with any synagogue can not only learn about Judaism, but the Temple itself.” A Taste of Judaism will offer a modern, Reform Jewish perspective on living in today’s complex society. Sessions will be held in a comfortable setting which encourages lively discussion and will cover Jewish spirituality, values and the Jewish People as a whole.
Classes will meet for three sessions on Thursdays, July 16, 23 and 30th at 7 p.m. The program is text-based, so participants can follow along and take materials home with them for further study. A Taste of Judaism is open to the entire community, Jewish or not, and there is no cost to attend. Refreshments will be served. Reserve your seat by calling the Temple office at 904-733-7078, or emailing learning@thetemplejacksonville.org. RSVP’s by July 14 are greatly appreciated.
The Jacksonville Hadassah has a number of exciting and intriguing books to be reviewed on its summer slate. A biography of King David, a coming of age novel as well as a book written by a NY Times best-selling author and a cookbook will all be studied this month as a part of the organization’s annual summer book review. The weekly event will be held each Tuesday during the month of July at the Jacksonville Jewish Center, 3662 Crown Point Road. The lineup is as follows: • Tuesday, July 7. David: The Divided Heart (Jewish Lives), written by David Wolpe; reviewed by Rabbi Howard Tilman
• Tuesday, July 14 – Nation by the River, written by Gabe Galambos; reviewed by Evelyn Peck • Tuesday, July 21 – The Museum of Extraordinary Things, written by Alice Hoffman; reviewed by Aviva Kaplan • Tuesday July 28 – Aromas of Aleppo: The Legendary Cuisine of Syrian Jews, written by Poopa Dweck; reviewed by Leah Ben-Yehuda Come early for a little socializing and a Hadassah Update at 10:30 a.m., followed by the book reviews, starting promptly at 11 a.m. For additional information or to RSVP, contact Aviva Kaplan atavivajkaplan@gmail.com or 813-435-0547.
MAKE SURE IT’S DECISION
Make Informed Choices about AND and DNR Not Sure What AND and DNR are all about? Come see for yourself! Join River Garden Experts
Dr. Marcella Dobren, MD, Baptist Health Dr. Sue Leger-Krall, PhD, ARNP Elliott Palevsky, MA
Thursday Evening July 9, 2015 5:00pm - 7:00pm Wine and cheese at 5:00 PM Panel Discussion begins promptly at 5:45 There will be plenty of time for your questions and answers
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
federation news
Girlfriend Connection celebrates 10 years of learning and laughter with Jewish Federation
Carrie Bielski, Kim McDonough, Jenn Neuman & Ann Tiefenthaler
Eunice Zisser, Chase Zimmerman and Sue Eaglstein
Shirley Bielski and Talie Zaifert
Photos by Larry Tallis
BY ERIN COHEN
Women’s Division Director
On May 13, more than 150 guests helped the Women’s Division celebrate its 10-year anniversary of the Girlfriend Connection. This event, which is a fundraiser for the Federation’s Annual Campaign, is open to all women in the Jacksonville Jewish community and over the years has brought in an array of incredible speakers. This year, the guest speaker was Alison Lebovitz, author, television host and co-founder of ‘One Clip at a Time,’ a non-profit organization based in Chattanooga, Tenn., which empowers students to advocate for themselves and make a difference in their communities. Lebovitz shared entertaining stories and amusing scenarios that she has experienced as a daughter, wife and mother, all of which helped mold
her into the person she is today. The accomplished author also emphasized the responsibility to not only incorporate philanthropy and acts of kindness in our lives, but the importance of teaching our children why they should give back. A huge thank you goes out to Carrie Bielski and Talie Zaifert, the event co-chairs, who along with a fantastic event committee made this milestone celebration a memorable one. Additional thanks to the night’s table sponsors, benefactors, patrons and donors who helped make the evening the biggest success to date for a Women’s Division event. The Federation Women’s Division wishes everyone a relaxing and enjoyable summer and is looking forward to picking up again in the fall with more engaging, entertaining and educational programming.
Annual Meeting Continued from p. 1
Jay Stein (L) and Steve Silverman (R) with keynote speaker, Dr. Ken Stein
Dorri Kraus, Naomi Lazar and Isabel Balotin
Scan code to watch special annual meeting video on ...
Eileen Leader, Rebecca Johnson, keynote speaker Alison Lebovitz and Paige Wajsman
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
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education
Jacksonville teen to travel to Israel in July BY JILL ABEL Israel Partnership
This month, Sabrina Mail, daughter of Andrea and Steven Mail and a rising sophomore at Stanton College Preparatory School will take part in the Israel Partnership Tikkun Olam trip. Mail will be joined by teens from Chattanooga and Knoxville, Tenn., as well as Richmond, Va., as they make their voyage to the Middle East. The program participants will be hosted by families in the partnership region of HaderaEiron for two weeks. While overseas, Sabrina and the American teens will travel with their Israeli peers to learn more about our sister region in addition to experiencing the beauty of Jerusalem, Masada, the Dead Sea, Haifa and Tsfat. Aside from sightseeing, the students will be working on several projects of Tikkun Olam repairing the world. Liat Walker, a fifth grade
Sabrina Mail will head overseas this month as part of the Israel Partnership Tikkun Olam trip
teacher at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School will also serve as the chaperone for the teens while in Israel. The Jacksonville Jewish community looks forward to learning more about the group’s experience upon its return but until then they are wished N’siah Tova as they head toward the homeland.
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By Jacksonville Jewish News
Whether it’s a milestone achievment accomplished by a friend or family member associated with the Jacksonville Jewish community or simply a story, event or announcement to be shared, drop us a line at jjn@ jewishjacksonville.org. You can also contact newspaper editor Matt Franzblau at mattf@jewishjacksonville.org or 904-4485000, extension 212.
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ENCORE PRESENTATION N Join us for the second screening of this ZRQGHUIXO ¿OP
Sunday, August 2 at 1:30 pm Cohen Auditorium River Garden Senior Services 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd. Coffee and dessert will be served RSVP a must by July 29th to: Emma at events@jewishjacksonville.org or Mimi at 904-880-4014
Second showing by popular demand! Program and dessert courtesy of Federation’s Shalom Jacksonville and River Garden Senior Services
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
EDUCATION
To Learn is To Teach, To Teach is to Learn BY NAOMI CHASE
Religious School Director Congregation Ahavath Chesed
“Mi kol milamdai hiskalti” – a verse from Psalms, 119:99 and referenced in many other Jewish texts, seems apropos as we reflect on the school year just completed at The Temple and share its educational visions for next year. “From all of my teachers have I learned,” is one way to understand the text. Indeed, I have learned from many teachers this year. Another way to understand the verse is, “More than from all of my teachers have I learned,” – which is to say, I have also learned from our students who in turn have learned from one another. Both interpretations inform the changes we intend to make in our religious school
Naomi Chase
next year here at Congregation Ahavath Chesed - The Temple Jacksonville. A new constellation of faculty and teachers will be engaged with multiple classes so that a majority of them will get
to know more of the school’s children. These interactions will be more representative of real congregational life and they will no doubt promote greater collaboration of Temple constituencies with learners in addition to giving greater opportunity to express learning through Temple initiatives. Content will also be more clearly described and aligned and this should help parents see what their children are learning and how it leads to skills acquisition and application in real time. Personal life cycle events, worship, holiday celebrations and social action events will all be equally weighted and just as the psalmist described, more teachers will produce deeper learning, in and outside the synagogue.
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DuBow Preschool’s Parent & Me classes feature a unique number of programs geared to kids’ needs at specific ages of development. From music and movement to sensory and physical activities, parents can join their little ones as they explore their new world in a safe and invigorating environment.
DuBow Preschool Parent & Me classes offers plenty of summer sessions By DuBow Preschool
Dubow Preschool’s parent and me classes will continue to offer sessions throughout the summer months. A full description of programming can be found below: Family Music: A great first Parent & Me class If you are a parent who has just made it past the newborn phase with your little one and are itching to get out of the house, this is a great first Parent & Me class for you. The class is appropriate for babies three months and up as Family Music and Movement is a proven way for parents to bond with their baby. Studies show that babies who participate in interactive music classes with their parents achieve earlier communication skills, smile more, and are easier to soothe, even from as young as two months. Family Music & Movement classes incorporate songs with movement and various hand held instruments. Accompanying that programming will be some wonderful stories as well as American Sign Language and cooperation practice. This is also one of those rare classes where siblings are encouraged to attend. Three sessions are being offered this summer June 17, July 8, and July 15. For more information or to sign up online visit facebook.com/familymusicandmovement
Color Splash Color Splash is a parent and me sensory class designed for parents and children to have handson exposure to varying textures, smells, and tastes in an environment which encourages learning through experience. The class is designed to focus on one color each week as well as teaching and reinforcing vocabulary and overall language development. This class is recommended for children ages 10 months to about 3.5 years as they participate in a structured schedule of short circle time with songs in addition to independent exploration of various materials to awaken their senses as well as snack and story time. This summer, Ms. Natalie is offering two sessions with three available time options per session, including a new afternoon time (12:30 - 1:30pm). For more information go to facebook.com/colorsplashclass or contact colorsplashclass@ gmail.com. Stroller Workout This program starts in September and is a brand new class for the stroller crowd starts this September. Get fit and stay fit, while enjoying an hour with other moms. Look for this new Parent & Me class offered by DuBow Preschool and stay in the loop by going to facebook.com/strollerworkout
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
SYNAGOGUE NEWS
Beth El the Beaches supports community through sandwich sale By Beth El – The Beaches Synagogue and we thank them for the meals
The fourth annual Beth El – The Beaches corned beef sandwich sale was a great success, not only for the synagogue but also for the community. This year’s program again served two very important organizations; The Donna Foundation which supports women living with breast cancer and the Mission House, which provides food and services to the needy. “All of us at Mission House are so appreciative of the donation and for the caring Beth El members’ selfless act of kindness and giving,” said director Lori Anderson. “They have set the standard for all to follow
they are providing to our community.” Money raised through the sale will help feed more than 500 needy residents of the Beaches and a check will be presented to both organizations with the grand total of proceeds generated from the event. Beth El Rabbi Michael Matuson was ecstatic with his congregation’s outpouring of support through the sale of those savory sandwiches. “Proverbs 22:16 teaches us that a generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor,” he explained. “I am very proud of everyone’s efforts and for accomplishing their goal in
Summer Kollel Returns to Etz Chaim Synagogue By Etz Chaim Synagogue
Etz Chaim Synagogue is proud to announce that its annual summer kollel is returning in 2015 and is scheduled to take place in mid-July. The summer kollel is an outstanding program which combines meaningful study, warm ruach and great camaraderie for an extended weekend. This year’s program will begin Thursday July 9th and wrap up on Sunday July 12th, and the theme is ‘Navigating the Maze for the Kosher Consumer’. The scholars in residence for the kollel are Rabbi Elie Eleff from the Orthodox Union Kosher Division and Deborah Shapiro, former kosher food category manager and current loyalty and digital marketing manager for Southeastern Grocers. The presentations will range in topic from, how to enjoy kosher craft beers in the microbrewery age, to how to get a plant to be certified kosher. Additional subject matter will include, not your mother’s chicken soup and
Summer Kollel will be held July 9-12th, this year at Etz Chaim
how to explain the kosher equation to your friends. Etz Chaim Synagogue is proud to be affiliated with the Orthodox Union and its kosher division. The Summer Kollel is an opportunity for members of the larger community to learn about all aspects of kosher life and the inner workings of the world’s largest kosher certifying agency. The entire Jewish community is invited to attend and there is no charge to view the presentations.
support of all of these important programs.” Denice Goldberg, Chairperson of the fundraiser also chimed in, praising the synagogue’s participation. “It is our responsibility to reach out to our community through social action and service and this sale provided us the resources to share this success with our neighbors,” she said. “We give our sincere thanks and gratitude to all of those who made this sale a success and we look forward to next year’s continued support of our community programs.”
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
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education
DuBow Preschool’s Parparim class helps kids come out of their cocoon BY NATALIE DAYAN
ment and more importantly, the transformation that we observed in his younger brother throughout his year at DuDow Preschool, far exceeded our expectations. Our once extremely shy, soft spoken, and clingy three-year-old slowly morphed into a talkative, thoughtful and playful little man. Our son’s experience in the Parparim class truly lived up to its name. Parparim in Hebrew means butterflies and there is no better way to describe his growth this year than to compare it to a transformation from a caterpillar into a beautiful, strong butterfly. The amazing friendships he made with his classmates will surely act as stepping stones to many healthy social interactions with his peers
Dubow Pre School
The move to a new city can always be a challenging one, especially when little ones are a part of the family. The change of environment, home, weather and school can often lead to stressful reactions in both children and adults, this is why we were so happy to discover that the transition into a new school occurred seamlessly for both of our older boys. Our oldest son adjusted so well into his kindergarten class, but he had always been very flexible in that way. The adjust-
Michele Block Gan Yeladim teaches students to love and care for animals
Few spots remain for prospective students at DuBow Preschool By DuBow Preschool
With the help of ecological organizations such as the St. John’s Riverkeeper in addition to the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool students learn about Florida’s endangered wildlife
BY MOLLY SWEET
Michele Block Gan Yeladim
The compassionate treatment of animals is a fundamental tenet of the Jewish faith. This philosophy recognizes the link between how a person treats animals and how a person treats human beings. It stresses the importance of preventing tza’ar ba’alei chayi or the suffering of living creatures. In addition to spiritual reward, caring for animals also encourages cognitive, social, emotional and physical development according to Dr. Sheryl Dickstein, director of humane education for the ASPCA. At Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten, compassion for animals is an
intrinsic part of the curriculum and is exemplified in the way that students encounter, interact with and even care for animals in their own classrooms during the course of the school year. Through ongoing partnerships with ecological organizations like the St. Johns Riverkeeper as well as the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool students learn about Florida’s endangered wildlife and how to help protect other animals from being in harms way. “Over the course of the year, students have seen owls, turtles, snakes, alligators and mice to name a few,” said Rochelle Golomb, Michele Block Gan
Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten assistant director. “The zoologists teach our students to be gentle and allow them to carefully touch or hold the animals.” Each year, students collect items for the school-wide tzedakah or charity projects. This year, the school collected nearly seven boxes full of pet supplies to donate to the Jacksonville Humane Society. They also donated money to Florida Fish and Wildlife, the Jacksonville Zoo Manatee Critical Care Facility and Owl Encounters. With the help of their teachers students have cared for hatching chicks, guinea pigs, hamsters, frogs and various other class pets.
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in the near future. The love and nurturing that was given by our son’s teachers and the entire preschool staff was truly unmatched. We always felt secure in knowing that not only was our child being loved, but that he was also obtaining a wealth of knowledge through direct learning and handson experiences. We are so grateful to DuBow Preschool for being a part of our child’s transformation and look forward to Voluntary Pre-kindergarten (VPK) next year!
The mission of DuBow Preschool for nearly 75 years has been to offer a supportive, creative, safe, enriching, and developmentally appropriate environment for the youngest members of the community. Challenging students to stretch their unique potential has created a place to grow toward maturity and independence. The overarching goal of DuBow is to work with families to provide a first school experience which instills a joyful and solid foundation for student learning, but most of all a love of being Jewish. By choosing the DuBow Preschool, families are choosing not only a unique early childhood program, but also a loving community. The children benefit
from exceptional programming, led by committed and experienced staff which includes the likes of preschool professionals, clergy, and specially trained teachers. The beautiful preschool, its playgrounds and gardens are just the beginning as DuBow is fortunate to be housed in the Jacksonville Jewish Center. It is also lucky to be part of the Galinsky Academy, which provides an excellent facility, rich in shared resources. To schedule a personal tour, call Shereen Canady at 904-2684200 ext. 143 or send an e-mail to scanady@dubowpreschool.org. Prospective parents are also invited to take a sneak peek at what is going on inside the hallways and classrooms of Dubow by checking out the classroom blogs at dubowpreschool.org, simply click on the Parent Portal.
Assessment: The Key to Productive Change BY NAOMI CHASE
Temple Religious School Director
“A revolution is afoot in the teaching of Hebrew in part-time Jewish educational settings,” said Nachama Moskowitz, Director of Education at the Jewish Education Center of Cleveland. The research and the innovations it has generated are the genesis for actions to change decades old systems and strategies that are not producing Hebrew competence in our students today. At The Temple’s Religious School, we are ready to make some very exciting changes so that we can better deliver instruction and produce more impactful and enduring results. Competence in Hebrew supports all Jewish learning, so it’s time to expand Hebrew’s usefulness beyond just prayer and Torah reading. The curricular goals of the reform movement continue to include competence in Hebrew phonics and it will be more systemically integrated into the Temple’s religious school program to optimize its value to the whole Jewish educational experience. This past year, the Temple piloted a new Hebrew in-
structional model called ‘Hebrew Through Movement’ in both the second and fourth grades, where the students who took part showed remarkable progress. The program is predicated on building comfort and facility with Hebrew vocabulary from prayers, values, customs and holidays prior to mastering phonics. Students are also visually stimulated as they are often up and out of their seats, watching, mimicking actions and speaking Hebrew in their own voices. Uniquely trained teachers will deliver ‘Hebrew Through Movement’ in an expanded format from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade next year. This foundation places the school’s sixth and seventh grade students in good stead to phonetically decode at a more developmentally appropriate time. At these grade levels, a new model will be launched, as ‘Learning Hebrew Side By Side’ places individual students with a teenaged personal trainer (with adult supervision) to complete a computer-based learning plan. That plan also provides tactile, visual and verbal exercises designed to strengthen phonics and comprehension skills.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
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JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE
Family Fun Days continue throughout the summer at the Jewish Community Alliance
By IMAN BYFIELD
Jewish Community Alliance
In late May, the JCA celebrated the opening of the Howard and Joy Korman Outdoor Pool with the sixth annual Cardboard Boat Regatta and Family Fun Day. JCA members and their families came out in droves to enjoy the great weather and have fun in the pool. Regatta participants competed with impressively constructed boats in the 50-yard, last boat standing
race and enjoyed free refreshments and DJ entertainment. Race winners were presented with prizes, and the day continued with additional swim time and fun for the whole family. Free events such as these are great opportunities for JCA members to meet each other and enjoy quality time with other families within the community. The JCA is scheduled to hold two more Family Fun Days this summer for members to enjoy.
The next event will take place, Sunday, July 5, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m and JCA members can enjoy a day of fun and games, including free hot dogs, chips, and other refreshments in addition to DJ entertainment and games. The final Family Fun Day this season will take place in September, for more information, contact Rio Robinson at 904-730-2100, ext. 250 or e-mail him at rio.robinson@ jcajax.org.
jca happenings For more information or to register for programs at the JCA, call 904-730-2100 or visit our official website at www.jcajax.org.
Limited spaces still available at JCA Summer Camp The Jewish Community Alliance Summer Camp 2015 is underway, but there are still limited spaces available for new campers. A pair of two-week sessions remain and are scheduled for July 13-24 and July 27-Aug. 7. Theatre Camp has just one session left, which will take place July 13-Aug. 7.
JCA Summer Camp combines fun activities with a fabulous facility and a top-notch staff to provide a safe, happy and positive camping experience which produces lifelong memories for campers. Activities for children ages two and up include swimming, arts and crafts, sports, music, dance and theater. Camp Habonim, a specialty camp for children entering grades three to six, allows campers to concentrate on a specialty track in addition to traditional camp activities. Specialties offered include pottery, basketball, cooking, Krav Maga, Lacrosse, ice skating, tennis, soccer, golf, science and much more. The JCA also offers postcamp Adventure Days from August 10- 14. For more information on JCA Summer Camps, visit www.jcajax.org/camp to view the online brochure. To check availability for JCA Summer Camp, contact the JCA registrar at 904730-2100 ext. 228 or 233.
art Fitness Center, gym, cycling and exercise studios, but you also can cool off in the JCA’s two swimming pools. The Howard and Joy Korman Outdoor Pool is open Saturday’s from 1-5:30 p.m., and on Sunday’s from 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. During the week it’s available for use from 5:30 a.m. -9:15 p.m., Monday through Thursday and from 5:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. on Friday’s. The Richter Family Indoor Pool offers open swim hours from 1-5:30 p.m. on Saturday’s and from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday’s. Monday through Thursday it is open from 5:30 a.m.- 9:15 p.m. and from 5:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m., each Friday.
Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten Registration is open for the 2015-16 school year at Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten for children ages 12 months to 6 years. Our innovative environment, unique curriculum and the partnerships at our facility provide integrated programming which gives students unparalleled excellence in early childhood education. For more information, call 904-730-2100 ext. 235 or visit www.jcajax.org/ece.
JCA After School Program
Beat the heat at the JCA Not only can you work out in an air-conditioned and comfortable climate during the summer months at the JCA’s state-of-the-
Registration is now open for the JCA’s After School Program for the 2015-16 school year. This program nurtures, encourages and stimulates your children’s interests with a variety of activities, all in a positive environment which your child will surely love. Limited spaces are available and free transportation is provided from some schools. For more information,
call 904-730-2100 ext. 245 or visit www.jcajax.org/youth.
Vandroff Art Gallery The photographs of the talented Carol Curtis will be featured from July 3-29. Carol has enjoyed photography as a hobby since her retirement in 2005. She belongs to the Art Guild of Orange Park and the Beaches Photography Club. This is her second solo show at the JCA and a reception will be held on July 9 from 6-8 p.m.
JCA Film Series ‘In Our Own Hands: The Hidden Story of the Jewish Brigade in World War II’ tells the story of His Majesty’s Jewish Brigade, the only all-Jewish British fighting unit in the war. From the trenches of northern Italy to the refugee camps of war-torn Europe, this film unravels the thrilling tale of young Jewish soldiers who carried the weight of a people on their shoulders. This program is free of charge and will be shown Sunday, July 19 at 2 p.m. The entire community is encouraged to attend.
Fun with Fossils
The dates for this course are on Mondays, July 20- Aug. 24 from 7-9 p.m. The fee is $153 and just $102 for JCA valued members.
Lunch Bunch This off-site meet up is back by popular demand. On Thursday, July 16 at 12 p.m., come to Green Erth Bistro to meet new friends and enjoy a nice lunch. This program is Dutch treat.
Tour and Taste with the JCA On Thursday, July 30 at 9:45 a.m., enjoy a guided tour through the Anheuser-Busch Brewery’s state of the art facility including a review of the beer making process and a sample tasting. After the tour, head over to River City Brewing Company for a Dutch treat lunch. The fee for the tour is $30 and $20 for JCA members.
Pedicure and Dinner Join us at Mandarin Landing on Thursday, July 2 at 4 p.m., for pedicures at the Aveda Institute, followed by a 6 p.m. dinner at Enza’s Italian Restaurant. This program is Dutch treat.
Enjoy a morning of collecting fossils with John Owens of Coastal Fossil Adventures, LLC, on Sunday July 26 from 7:30-10:30 a.m. We’ll meet in the Mickler’s Landing/Beach parking lot at 7:30 a.m. The fee for this program is $24 and $16 for JCA valued members. Registration is required by July 22; children 10 and older are welcome with a parent.
Adult Art Classes Oil painting with Gordon Meggison emphasizes color and composition and is for students with basic oil painting skills who wish to expand their knowledge.
JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE 2015 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $208,000
904.730.2100 wwwjcajax.org
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Briefs
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JEWISH FAMILY and COMMUNITY SERVICES JFCS announces new co-chair FANN Food Drive well on its way to 10K goal for 2016 Heroes Among Us By Jewish Family & Community Services Gayle Bailys
PJ Library PJ Library, the award winning free program for books and music is open to all families with Jewish children in Jacksonville. Children between the ages of six months and eight years are eligible. Please sign up now by going to www.pjlibrary. org/communities/jacksonville, or calling Ilene Schinasi at 904-394-5724.
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 Ilene Schinasi for more information at 904224-6287.
Call2Go Call2Go is the transportation program at JFCS as we work with Checker Cab company. We are happy to schedule rides for Shabbat and Holidays at no charge and we will also provide rides for medical appointments and quality of life events. Call Ilene Schinasi for more information at 904224-6287.
Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
Plans are currently underway for the JFCS annual fundraiser, Heroes Among Us. While still basking in the success of this year’s event under the direction of the talented team of Susan DuBow, Debra Setzer and Jeanine Rogozinski, the organization is pleased to announce that Cathy Klein and Gayle Bailys have graciously agreed to co-chair next year’s event. Brief biographies of each of the new co-chairs can be found below. Cathy Klein Cathy is a 10-year resident in the Jacksonville area and along with her husband Stuart have three children. She is a member of Congregation Ahavath Chesed - The Temple and works at UF Health.
Gayle is a member of the Jacksonville Jewish Center and has served as recreation and youth director there for 27 years. She has also been a sisterhood board member as well as a past president, not to mention a gracious recipient of numerous awards highlighting her hard work. At River Garden, Gayle served as a gala co-chair and is a past president of the Auxiliary. Additionally, Bailys has served as a board member and officer of Hadassah and NCIW. She and her husband David, have two children, Jeremy and Richie. If you are interested in becoming involved with the Heroes Among Us Committee, please contact Sandy Duggan, JFCS Director of Development at 904394-5727, or email her at sduggan@jfcsjax.org.
JFCS receives more than 3K in Claims Conference Funds By Jewish Family & Community Services
JFCS is pleased to announce that it has received a Claims Conference Grant of $3,750 to support its popular Holocaust Family Gatherings for 2015-16. This new funding will help the organization in continuing to reach out to Holocaust Survivors and their families who have participated in Café Europa style social programming during the past two years. These funds will enable JFCS to offer additional social programs that help meet the needs of
local survivors such as workshops facilitated by community educators. It will also help continue popular events such as the annual Chanukah and Passover model Seder programs. Transportation is available for survivors from Jacksonville and the Palm Coast area where many Holocaust survivors live. JFCS would again like to thank the Claims Conference and to all who helped support the organization’s Holocaust Family Gatherings in the past and will continue to do so in the near future.
Gate River Run 5K Walk nets $3,500 for JFCS
By Jewish Family & Community Services
Since the start of the 2015 Feed A Needy Neighbor (FANN) food drive in May, donations have been pouring in to support the JFCS food pantry. In just one month, 50 percent of the $10,000 goal has been met and the campaign continues through the end of July. Last year, JFCS served more than 77,000 meals to hungry families in the Jacksonville community. Hunger and nutritional needs increase during the summer months as children who are on summer break would normally receive a free breakfast and lunch while in school. It is estimated that 53,000 kids in Duval Coun- JFCS is more than halfway to its $10,000 ty will be without these goal for the FANN Block Family Challenge meals as a result. Additionally JFCS would like to thank the by making your donation today! Go to jfcsjax.org and on the doBlock Family Food Challenge of nate page, type in FANN. Phone $10,000. Since 1987, the Blocks donations are also accepted by have graciously supported the calling Tamir Schlosser at 904FANN food drive in addition to 394-5737 and checks can be sent their continued support of the to the JFCS office at 6261 Dupont food pantry throughout the year, Station Ct. E., Jacksonville, FL especially during the holidays, 32217 another time of increased need.
JFCS announces May employees of the month By Jewish Family & Community Services
Jewish Family and Community Services would like to congratulate Jackie Heggs, accounting supervisor and Chauncey Johnson, family services counselor as its Employees of the Month under the core value of professionalism. Voted upon by JFCS staff, Jackie and Chauncey are described as hard workers who are willing to do what it takes to get the job
By Jewish Family & Community Services
The 5K Walk for Charity sponsored by the Gate River Run raises thousands of dollars every year to support local charities in the community. A portion of each entry goes directly to local charities who volunteer 60 hours or more dur-
ing the Expo. This year JFCS received a grand total of $3,500 and in support of this donation, two-dozen JFCS staff members volunteered at the Expo earlier this spring by handing out packets, timing chips and t-shirts.
Jewish Healing Network
Become a Jewish Healing Network volunteer at JFCS and help us fulfill the Mitzvah of Bikkur Cholim. If you are interested in helping, you can make a weekly visit or phone call to a senior or you can even help us deliver food to those who are not able to go out for a mail. For more information, please call Ilene Schinasi at 904-394-5724.
Please accept their challenge
JFCS JOB BOARD Jewish Family & Community Services is seeking a full-time school counselor who will provide a comprehensive counseling program to help students achieve academic, personal, and social success. Requires a Master Degree in Guidance and/or School Counseling from an accredited college or university. A minimum of two years of teaching, counseling, or other similar experience is required. Knowledge of Jewish practices, customs, values and traditions. If you are interested in being considered, please complete the employment application form on our website at www.jfcsjax.org. EOE/AA:females/minorities/disabled/vets DFWP
JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES 2015 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $294,500
done. In addition to being diligent employees they are always kind with each and every one of their clients and co-workers. They are indeed the quiet ones who treat everybody with respect, while positively representing the organization in all that they do and JFCS is lucky to have them. Congratulations to you both!
w www.jewishjacksonville.org
Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
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JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
New Beginnings at the JCF Jewish leaders, whether they have been of religious standing, political activism or pillars of the community bring certain Jewish values to the table. Our JCF leadership, both past and present represent every segment of the community. However, all of our board members share in the JCF mission to grow and oversee endowment funds and planned By JEFF gifts to ensure a vital future, KLEIN, while maintainExecutive ing current services and Director programs. Here at the JCF, our volunteer leadership, who make up our committees and board have expertise in many fields including investment management and estate planning. They represent the legal and financial arenas as well as the business, accounting, medical and health professions. These dynamic individuals who give their time and expertise to the JCF are led by newly appointed president Sue Nussbaum, MD, MBA. Dr. Nussbaum understands the importance and the responsibility of prudently investing endowment fund assets at the JCF. With nearly $41 million in current and future assets held for individuals and our partners in various capacities, the JCF has made a significant effort and allocated various resources in the management of our portfolio. Barbara Jaffe, JCF investment oversight committee chair along with the IOC members, oversee the funds that are invested. Currently, the IOC is conducting an RFP or request for proposals. The proposals are now complete and the committee is actively analyzing results, which include everything from assets under management, performance, services and fees. When completed, the JCF’s investment oversight committee will make a formal recommendation to the JCF board for investment advisory services. Our leadership is critical to the growth of the JCF and Dr. Nussbaum has worked closely with immediate JCF past President Mark Green as well as the JCF nominating committee to secure the organization’s new officers, who will help guide and grow the Foundation. With this in mind, Ronald Elinoff, Michael Korn and Gary Perlman have all agreed to serve as vice presidents and each brings a vast amount of community knowledge to this critical position. Our other talented officers include Larry Appel, JCF secretary; Jeff Edwards, assistant secretary; Matthew Edelman, treasurer: Mel Gottlieb, assistant treasurer; Andrea Mail and Richard Sisisky, Create a Jewish Legacy co-chairs and Barry Zisser, who will act as the nominating committee chair. Dr. Nussbaum is also looking forward to her work with the incredible members of the JCF’s board of trustees and welcomes our newest board members in Sue Levine, Adam Marmelstein and Gary Wilkenson. I am personally looking forward to working in partnership with Dr. Nussbaum and all of the Foundation’s officers and board members. For more information about the JCF please contact me at 904-2656855 or jeff.klein@jewishfoundationnefl.org.
MONEY MATTERS
Nussbaum named new JCF board president and a commitment to our Jewish future.” While Executive Director of We Care, Nussbaum was selected The Jewish Commuas a 2010 Woman of Influence and nity Foundation of Northeast as a 2012 Eve Finalist. AdditionFlorida’s Board of Trustees ally, she has an exceptional hishas named Sue Nussbaum, tory in development and fundraisMD, MBA, as its new board ing, built from 15 years of work president. Dr. Nussbaum, who in the non-profit sector, securing is beginning her third year on the funding required to provide the JCF Board, will succeed sustainable community resources. Mark Green as the outgoing “We will continue to focus president. on growing the JCF through “I am excited to have been education and conversation,” she selected to serve as the JCF explained. “The first question president,” Nussbaum said. “I a potential donor should ask is, plan to continue building on Newly installed Foundation board president Dr. Sue Nussbaum & ‘What is important to my family our prior leaders’ successes in and me in building a stronger Jewexecutive director Jeff Klein during May 27th’s annual meeting developing a legacy of Jewish community?’ There are many ish life in our community. We “I am looking forward to getting to vehicles for building legacies both are so fortunate to have a vital and thriving know our Jewish partners more intimately in the intermediate and long term. At the Jewish community and all of us want to through conversations about their needs, JCF, we will make sure these opportunities ensure that this is true for our children and interests and fresh ideas for the future,” are available for you to take advantage of. our children’s children l’Dor v’Dor. Our Nussbaum said. “As an Executive Director Moreover, the Northeast Florida community partners, including our Jewish agencies and for non-profit We Care Jacksonville for five will come to value the JCF (as well as the religious organizations are the key compoyears, I have connected with many individu- entire Jewish community) as our new grantnent of this legacy,” she added. als and organizations that truly care about making initiative begins to make a signifiDr. Nussbaum assumes the JCF presiden- our community. I am driven by meeting cant impact.” cy with a strong skill set and education. She and exceeding goals and expectations by Dr. Nussbaum is married to Michael S. earned her MBA from the Wharton Gradubuilding a strong team and getting results. Nussbaum, MD, who is Program Direcate School at the University of Pennsylvania We are fortunate to have Jeff Klein, our tor and Chief of the Division of General and her MD from the University of Cincinnew Executive Director, and his staff, Jean Surgery at UF Health Jacksonville. They nati. As an internist, she has spent much of Brantley (Bookkeeper) and Kevin Rogers have two daughters, Jackie, 27 and Rachel, her career combining her work in health (Project Coordinator), to guide, support and 24 as well as a very active Golden Retriever prevention with quality improvement and strengthen our efforts. Jeff is a seasoned named Sophie. access to health care. professional with a passion for Jewish life
BY KEVIN ROGERS
Jewish Community Foundation
Mark Green and Barry Zisser Recognized BY KEVIN ROGERS
the JCF.” Zisser was presented with the Donziger Legacy Leader Award, given on occasion At its May meeting, the JCF to an individual who exemplifies the legacy Board of Trustees took time out of the JCF’s inaugural president, Michael of its busy agenda to recognize Donziger. In accepting the Legacy Leader Mark Green and Barry Zisser for Award, Zisser offered this moving tribute: their leadership and commitment “Michael Donziger was my colleague, to the JCF. good friend and mentor. We were both born Green is no stranger to this as and raised in Brooklyn, and were ardent he has been recognized for his fans of the Dodgers. I became so impressed service as president of the JCF with Mike and his commitment to his faith, for the past four years. “When family and friends,” Zisser explained. Mark took over as president of “Mike quickly became my mentor and the JCF we were building on got me involved in synagogue activities, our strong launch of the Create the Federation, fundraising and requested a Jewish Legacy program,” said that I join him and several others to estabRichard Sisisky, past JCF presilish the Jewish Foundation of Northeast dent. “Knowing Mark’s steady Florida,” he added. “I am so honored, hand was at the helm, enabled us Barry Zisser (Left) and Mark Green (Right) after being honhumbled and proud to accept this award to continue to grow our signature ored by the JCF board of trustess during their May meeting named for one of the most outstanding and program. The well-earned level of unforgettable individuals ever to grace the Sisisky explained. “Mark embodies all the respect for Mark’s integrity and Jewish community of Jacksonville’s presattributes you want in a lay leader and all of community stewardship from our board, ence.” us owe him a huge debt of gratitude for his partner agencies and synagogues allowed thoughtful and very effective leadership of us to begin the next phase of our growth,”
Jewish Community Foundation
Foundation happenings • The RFP (Request for Proposal) project undertaken by the Investment Oversight Committee (IOC) of the JCF has moved into the evaluation phase. The JCF has received proposals back from all of the investment management firms who were invited to participate. The IOC is now engaged in the tedious process of carefully analyzing and evaluating the hundreds of pages contained in each firm’s proposal. At the end of this phase, the committee will decide on a list of finalists who will be brought in for face to face interviews.
• After months of hard work, the JCF Board of Trustees is nearing completion of its new strategic plan. • The JCF is beginning a website redesign process to jewishfoundationnefl.org. We look forward to keeping you updated on the progress of this project as well as sharing more about the amazing nonprofit that is doing the work. • And finally, Mazel Tov to Deanna Brown from the entire Jewish Community Foundation for being named a 2015
Money Masters Honoree by the Jacksonville Business Journal!! Deanna Brown is the Co-Founder, along with Glen Ullman, of Ullmann Financial.
4932 Sunbeam Rd., Ste 200 Jacksonville, FL 32257 904.394.0720 jeff.klein@ jewishfoundationnefl.org
JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA 2015 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $88,422
Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
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RIVER GARDEN SENIOR SERVICES 19th Annual River Garden Golf Classic Supports Education! By MICHELLE BRANLY, Development Associate
904-260-1818
www.rivergarden.org 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32258
Briefs - Remember As an integral part of the River Garden community, you have priority access to our care system when our programs can best meet your needs.
Come And Volunteer At River Garden - It Feels Good… It Does Good Treat yourself to the River Garden experience. The River Garden Campus is home to our dedicated and caring volunteers. From teens to golden-agers, we invite you to become a part of our volunteer team. Create your own convenient schedule… We guarantee your personal fulfillment!! Interested in volunteer opportunities at River Garden? Please contact Leslie Held at 904-886-8429 or email lheld@rivergarden.org
It was a beautiful day at Deerwood Country Club on Wednesday, April 29th for the 19th River Garden Classic. A gathering of 135 golfers took to the course where they had a chance to show their skills with prizes awarded on every hole. The day ended with a reception and awards presentation led by long time event co-chairs, Mark Lodinger and Michael Price, and emcee John Hamel of Dignity Memorial. Tournament proceeds benefit The Albert Z. Fleet Geriatric Training Center at River Garden, a Florida licensed notfor-profit post-secondary school which trains nursing assistants and provides continuing education for existing staff. The nursing assistant program offers classroom training and clinical experience in a long-term care facility. Each student has the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills required to pass the Florida certification
Golf Classic chairs Mark Lodinger (L) and Michael Price (R) with Title Sponsors Janne and Jody Brandenburg.
exam and function successfully as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), in a long-term care facility. Certification is required for employment in long-term care facilities. Since the tournament’s inception in 1997, more than $1 million has been raised for the school. This year, Hardage-Giddens Funeral Homes & Cemeteries returned as Title Sponsor for the event. Hardage-Giddens is a
Caregivers, friends and family - monthly support group reminder Dealing with family issues of aging and illness? Our support group meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month, 3:30-4:30 PM in the Adult Day Care Center in the Frisch Family Pavilion. For more information, call or email Dr. Sue Krall, PhD, ARNP: 904-886-8421 or skrall@rivergarden.org.
Remember River Garden when honoring or memorializing your loved ones Donating to River Garden is an uncomplicated, feel-good activity. Here are several ways we’ve made it easy for you… x Simply mail to: Development Department River Garden Hebrew Home 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd. Jacksonville, Florida 32258 x Or call: 904-886-8432 x Or go online: www.rivergarden.org/donation From Generation to Generation… L’Dor V’Dor Remember River Garden and the entire Jewish Community in your will.
River Garden Senior Services
Admissions........... 904-886-8420 Adult Day Care ........... 288-7858 Donations .................... 886-8432 Foundation .................. 886-8430 Home Health Care ...... 288-7851 Rehab / Therapy .......... 886-8454 The Coves ................... 292-2683 Volunteers ................... 886-8429 CEO Marty Goetz ....... 260-1818
RIVER GARDEN 2015 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $195,000
member of the Dignity Memorial® network of more than 1,600 funeral, cremation and cemetery service providers. For more than 84 years, Hardage-Giddens has been Jacksonville's premier provider of funeral, cremation and cemetery services assuring quality, value, caring service and exceptional customer satisfaction. Their commitment has remained unchanged
Clockwise from Top Left: One of the beautiful new pin flags displaying the logos of the River Garden Classic and title sponsor Dignity Memorial, with their slogan “Life Well Celebrated”; dressed for a day on the links, Ronald Giddens drives the ball a mile; Jody Brandenburg, of title sponsor Hardage-Giddens, with River Garden CEO Marty Goetz, sporting hats from their alma maters; the fabulous volunteers who are instrumental in helping make the River Garden Golf Classic the wonderful event it is; the fearless foursome of Jeff Wiener, David Honig, Michael DuBow and Jeff Leach
and they have always responded to the changing needs of the community. "We are proud to continue to support the wonderful work that River Garden does in the community," said Jody Brandenburg, Pr esident of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Homes & Cemeteries. "The Albert Z. Fleet Geriatric Training Center at River Garden is a vital community resource which helps meet the increasing need for certified nursing assistants in the local area, as well as providing continuing education to River Garden staff." River Garden is delighted to announce that Hardage-Giddens Funeral Homes & Cemeteries will sponsor next year’s tournament as well. To learn more about the River Garden Foundation, the Golf Classic or the school, visit www.rivergarden.org, email Michelle Branly at mbranly@rivergarden.org, or call 904-886-8431.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
LIFECYCLES Births Mazel Tov to Kyle and Sejung Steinfeld and big brother Miru of Oakland, Calif. on the birth of their daughter, Sonah Meinen, March 12th. Proud grandparents are Michele Sonah Meinen and David Steinfeld of Jacksonville as well as Joanne and Paul Park of Hamburg, N.J.
B’nai Mitzvah Lily Eve Zager, of Corpus Christi, Texas became a Bat Mitzvah on Shabbat Bamidbar (May 23) at Congregation Beth Israel in Corpus Christi. Zager is a sixth grade honors student at Incarnate Word Academy Middle School. She loves ballet and jazz dancing and just comLily Zager pleted her Photo by Eddie Seal performance in the Corpus Christi Ballet’s spring performance of the Wizard of Oz. Zager also enjoys snowskiing, boating, knee-boarding and traveling. For her mitzvah project, Lily chose to collect books for all ages for JayNii Streetwise Foundation. Streetwise is a not-for profit organization based in Accra, Ghana dedicated to keeping children off the streets and in school. While living in Ghana, Lily and her parents helped to build a library for the organization. Lily is the daughter of Jana and Josh Zager, she has an older brother, Nathan, who is in ninth grade. Her grandparents are Robin and Al Zager of Fair Haven, N.J. and Lois and Alan Chepenik of Jacksonville.
Itamar (L) and Elior (R) Lubliner
Elior and Itamar Lubliner, sons of Rabbi Jonathan and Susan Lubiner, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of their B’nai Mitzvah, Aug. 22, at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Sharing in the simcha will be their brother, Avichai, 16; their grandmother, Sylvia Lubliner, of Jacksonville; and many other friends and family. Elior is entering the eighth grade at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School. He is an avid reader, loves to play basketball and enjoys cooking. He just completed the year as First Clarinet for an award-winning local school band. Itamar is also entering the eighth grade at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School. He, too, is passionate about reading and playing basketball. A budding writer, Itamar was the Seventh Grade Chapter Winner of the DAR American History Essay Contest. Elior and Itamar spend their summers at Camp Ramah Darom, a Conservative Jewish summer camp in the mountains of Northeast Georgia. For their mitzvah project, Elior and Itamar will be helping Martin J. Gottlieb Day School middle schoolers to create bags of snacks that can be distributed to feed those in need.
Engagements
Harris & Stanley
Amanda Leigh Harris, daughter of Tom and Debby Harris and granddaughter of H.C. and Marilyn Sims, is engaged to Christopher Stanley, son of Wayne and Karen Stanley of Prattville, Ala. The wedding will be May 14, 2016 in Jacksonville.
Accomplishments Congratulations to Michael C. Lewis, MD, recipient of the Distinguished Service Award at the Florida Society of Anesthesiologists Annual Meeting. This award is the highest tribute the Society can pay Michael C. Lewis to an FSA member for an outstanding clinical, educational or scientific achievement as well as contributions to the specialty and exemplary service to the Society. Lewis is also a Jewish Federation of Jacksonville board member and the chair of Society of Healers, the Federation’s healthcare professionals division. Rachel Erin Harris, daughter of Tom and Debby Harris and granddaughter of H.C. and Marilyn Sims, has graduated from University of Louisville School of Dentistry. Rachel will be practicing in Jacksonville. Amanda Leigh Harris, daughter of Tom and Debby Harris and granddaughter of H.C. and Marilyn Sims, has graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Music in Clarinet Performance. Hannah Berman was given the 2015 Presidents’ Leadership Award by the United States Golf Association and American Junior Golf Associations. Berman is the daughter of Mark and Betsy Hannah Berman Berman Credit: Jancisk Photo of Ponte Vedra and was one of just two in the nation to earn the earn honor which was created to recognize a male and female junior golfer who demonstrate leadership, character and community service through their involvement with the Leadership Links program. The 17-year old created a fundraiser for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation five years ago for her Tzedakah project in anticipation of her Bat-Mitzvah, calling it ‘Hitting it with Hannah’. Since then she has raised more than $5,000 through the event in addition to donating countless hours away from the course, volunteering her time and efforts. She was honored for her accomplishments, June 24 while playing at the Rolex Tournament of Champions, one of the world’s most prestigious events for junior golfers.
Dr. and Mrs. A. L. Green are happy to announce the graduation of granddaughter Jaclyn A. Shapiro from the University of Denver with a Masters Degree in Psychology on June 6, in addition to grandson David B. Gross who graduated from Bucknell University Magna Cum Laude, May 15 with a Bachelors Degree in Economics. Jaclyn is the daughter of Fred and Linda Shapiro of Scottsdale, Ariz., and David is the son of Barry and Joanne Gross of Media, Penn.
Sympathies ... To the family of Richard Melvin Albert who passed away Sunday, May 24 at the age of 93. Albert is survived by his daughter, Jacksonville Jewish Center member Jeanine (Dr. Chaim) Rogozinski as well as her siblings Carolyn Albert and Nancy (Tony) Kaufman, in addition to Richard’s grandchildren, Ariel and Taryn Kaufman, Rachel (Blair) Hyman, Erin (Arlen) Weintraub, Jonathan and Danielle Rogozinski, and Richard’s brother David (Ginette) Albert. The funeral service was held May 27 at Temple EmanuEl in Dallas, Texas. Donations in Richard Albert’s memory may be made to the Jacksonville Jewish Center, River Garden Hebrew Home or to the charity of your choice. ...To the family of Richard Bailey, brother-in-law of Jacksonville Jewish Center member Lawrence (Barbara) Jaffe. Bailey is survived by his two sons Marlin and Brian in addition to two grandchildren. Funeral services were held June 4 at the First Congregation Sons of Israel Cemetery in St. Augustine. Contributions in Richard memory can be made to the Jacksonville Jewish Center. ... To the family of Joyce Danos, who passed away May 29 at the age of 80. She is survived by her daughters Celeste Danos (Rochelle Miller) and Collette (Michael) Smith as well as sons Stephen (Lisa) Danos, Matthew (Dorine) Danos and seven grandchildren in addition to a great grandson, Nicholas. Funeral services were held June 2, in Larose, La. The family requests that contributions in memory of Joyce be made to the Sisterhood TIR Scholarship/Youth fund. ... To the family of Robert Feldman. He is survived by his sons Ed (Barbara), Benjy (Jocelyn) Feldman, and to his grandson Noah. Funeral services were held June 5, at the Arlington Cemetery. Rabbi Yaakov Fisch of Etz Chaim Synagogue officiated the service. ... To the family of Professor Maurice Heins, who passed away June 4 at the age of 99. He is survived by his sister-in-law Jules (Leonore) Wagman and wife Hadassah. The couple was approaching their 75th wedding anniversary, Aug. 25. Funeral services were held June 8, in Minnetonka, Minn. ... To the family of Ken Jacobson who passed away May 28th at the age of 73. He is survived by his wife and fellow Etz Chaim Synagogue member Bobbi as well as his children Arlene, Judy and Adam. Funeral services were held June 1 at the Evergreen Cemetery in Jacksonville. ... To the family of David Khazanovich, who passed away Friday, May 22 at the age of 75. He is survived his wife Yelena, daughter Galina (Davis) Kitchens, and granddaughter Natalie (Paxson) Troutman and Cailyn Kitchens. The funeral service was held May 27, at the New Center Cemetery in Jacksonville. Contri-
butions in David Khazanovich’s memory may be made to the Jacksonville Jewish Center, where he was a long time member. ... To the family of Ann “Pi” Elizabeth Brown Marko, who passed away Saturday, May 23 at the age of 82. She is survived by her son Adam Marko, his wife Jennifer and her grandson, Max Marko. A memorial service was held May 29 at Congregation Ahavath Chesed – The Temple and burial took place May 31 at Mount Nebo Memorial Gardens in Miami. The family requests that contributions in memory of Ann Marko be made to the River Garden Hebrew Home, where she most recently resided. ... To the family of Shoshana Naomi Schmerer, who passed away June 8 in Austin, Texas. She is survived by her husband Matthew, his parents David and Priscilla as well as her brotherin-law, Jason Schmerer. Funeral services were held June 11, in Paramus, N.J.
Classifieds Jewish Family & Community Services is seeking a part time Service Coordinator, 12 hours a week to be responsible for two services for the Jewish community: transportation and meals. Requires a high school diploma and 12 months of office experience. Transportation is provided to seniors. Services are provided by a local cab company. Meals4You are nutritious frozen meals delivered to clients weekly. The meals are prepared according to dietary law by River Garden. If you are interested in being considered, please complete the employment application form on our website at www.jfcsjax.org. EOE/ AA:females/minorities/disabled/ vets DFW
To submit an item for lifecycles, please email it to jjn@jewishjacksonville. org. Deadline 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.”
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
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editors column
Q&A with Federation Executive Alan Margolies
BY MATT FRANZBLAU
Federation Communications Director
As the newly minted editor for the Jacksonville Jewish news, I wanted to sit down with Federation executive director Alan Margolies as he concludes his 25th year of service to the Jacksonville Jewish community. During our interview, I asked the Merrick, N.Y. native questions on a range of topics from what keeps his perspective on his position fresh to why he feels it’s important to become involved in one’s Jewish community. Matt Franzblau: “Thanks so much for taking the time out of your schedule to sit down and talk with me today. Now I know this is a special month for you because you are celebrating your 25th anniversary as executive director with the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. Does it seem like it has been that long?” Alan Margolies: “It kind of does because when I saw that photo collage of me which was posted on Facebook, it had pictures of me when I was much younger, much thinner and I had a lot more hair. But in all seriousness, things are much different and much better. I think there are a lot of things to be proud of and I think the two most significant are, one, that we are raising two and a half million dollars when we were raising about a million 25 years ago, and two, we do have these relationships that we have carved out with our local agencies and synagogues which is a real improvement and something to be proud of. Those things don’t happen without the partnerships that we’ve created and honestly it’s not about me, it’s about the
12 presidents I have worked with, who have unselfishly given their time, talents and resources. It’s also about the relationships that we’ve built with the executive directors, the presidents and Rabbis of the local agencies and synagogues.” Franzblau: “What would you say is something that has really surprised you or was something you did not expect when you first came here 25 years ago, that you now have experienced?” Margolies: “There are a lot of things. For one, while this is Florida, other than the weather we are nothing like south Florida. There is a real sense of community here and I think the kinder, gentler, hospitality is different and it is different than most people think. This is a very special, kind, wonderful place to live and raise a family and it’s not that I didn’t think it wasn’t a wonderful place to begin with, I just didn’t know. The other thing is that it is different because I grew up in the northeast and I lived for a long time in south Florida, where there are a large percentage of Jewish people as part of the population. Here in Jacksonville we are less than one percent of the total population of the city. That, whether it is surprising or not is something that is different and I think with that being said, we do a pretty good job of getting air time given that we are such a small percentage of the overall population here.” Franzblau: “Being here for a quarter of a century now, what keeps this job fresh? What do you look forward to everyday when you come in to your office and keeps you invigorated?” Margolies: “In general, every two years we have a different president to serve in the top volunteer position and that keeps it fresh because each of these 12 outstanding individuals who I have had the privilege of working with these last few years are different from one another. They bring different strengths and talents to our organization and that keeps it fresh. Another thing that has kept it fresh for me is that right now we have the strongest staff we have ever had and we are
all aligned. I have always had good staff to work with here but right now it’s just a really great group of people. Another thing that has kept it fresh for me is that if we look around at the agencies which we are funding locally, they continue to grow and get better. All of these organizations have the most outstanding executive directors behind them and because of that our local agencies meet and exceed the benchmarks whenever they are measured up against all others. I feel like Myron (Flagler), Colleen (Rodriguez), Jeff (Klein) and Marty (Goetz) are all so outstanding with what they do that it has caused me to want to continue to grow and get better.” Franzblau: “What are some of the exciting projects or ventures that you are looking forward to here at the Federation or in the community?” Margolies: “The campaign is always the number one priority that we have and it is challenging to raise money every year, yet I know that we can do better. It is great that we are almost at 2.6 million but I want to get to three million. We got to two million a while ago and everyone knows the economy had a couple of rough years but things are better, so I want to try to have us grow together to three million dollars which is a real possibility. Also when we look at what our major local recipient organizations are challenged with and are trying to accomplish, these are things that I would like to support and help make happen. So when Jewish Family and Community Services says that they want to better meet the needs of our local Holocaust survivors, I’d like to see if we could help them or when the Jewish Community Alliance wants to bring a shlicha here from Israel, I’d like to see if we could make that happen together. When River Garden is embarking on an outstanding home health care program, if we could support them to make that a reality or when the Foundation wants to turn the hundreds of declarations of intent they have signed into permanent endowment funds I would want to assist them in getting that accomplished. Finally when our outstanding Jewish day schools want to increase enrollment and make their stellar educational opportunities available to Jewish children who are challenged it would mean a great deal to me
to see that happen. I also look forward to working with all of the synagogues to continue to create a dynamic and exciting synagogue life together. Franzblau: “How much are you looking forward to the joint mission that the JCA and the Federation will be taking to Israel next April? Margolies: “Myron Flagler and I are viewed as poster children for the relationship a JCC and Federation executive director should have together. We honestly don’t see any other way to do this and part of that has enabled us to put together a trip to Israel next April 10th through the 18th. Our two national organizations have agreed to help us do this together and it will include all of the fabulous things that would be on a Jewish federation mission but it is not going to be a typical Federation trip because we are doing it together. We are both very excited about it and I can promise anybody who goes with us that we are going to make sure it’s another fabulous opportunity.” Franzblau: “I am obviously new in town and have already gotten a sense of the Jewish community here in Jacksonville, but what do you hope others who move here or just come for a brief visit will say after going to an event or meeting those who are actively involved in the community?” Margolies: “First of all, the fact that we have organizations in the community that have respect for one another and get along is excellent. It makes it easier for all of us to go to work every day because we are in a supportive environment rather than environment that is treacherous. We see that evidenced in another way in that the professional leadership of the organizations here have been in place for quite a while and there are communities that have the reputation of not really respecting their professionals but here they do. Also, the volunteers here are wonderful and it seems apparent that they have a mutual respect for and want to take care of the executive directors of the staffs of our organizations. That is so important and I would want people to recognize that about our community. Lastly I would want them to see that we have a growing Jewish community as the orthodox community is growing, and our day schools are excellent. So
I’d want people to come here and say, ‘great infrastructure, great local organizations, excellent synagogues, great day schools’, because it is a solid place to live and raise a family.” Franzblau: “What would you say to anybody who is not at all involved or not as involved in Jewish life here in Jacksonville on how important it is for a Jew to be immersed in their community?” Margolies: “I think that before people might find it important, I am hoping that they would find it to be lovely and fun in celebrating our Judaism. You can begin doing that by lighting candles on Friday night or by going to services at any of the synagogues, so I think it is empowering if people choose to participate. One of the things that makes us unique is that anybody who wants to participate can and often are able to grow into positions of leadership with the Federation and other organizations in the community in a fairly quick manner because we welcome that. I hope that it is a nurturing experience for people who become involved because I think if you ask some of those 12 that I have mentioned who worked as presidents over these 25 years, they would say it has been nothing short of a nurturing experience and that’s because we have tried to make it that way for all of our leadership.” Those wanting to become more involved in Jewish life here in Jacksonville are encouraged to visit the Federation’s official website at jewishjacksonville.org. Anyone interested in attending the Federation and JCA’s joint mission to Israel in April 2016 can call executive director Alan Margolies at 904-448-5000, ext. 207 or e-mail him at alanm@ jewishjacksonville.org acksonville
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015
synagogue news Temple 20’s and 30’s has summer fun for everyone Donations for Operation Isaiah pour into the Jax Jewish Center By Jacksonville Jewish Center
Plenty of fun gatherings such as the ones above are still on tap this summer for the Temple 20’s and 30’s group or T3 as it is known. Pictured is dessert at the multi-course mystery dinner (June 5) and tubing at Ginnie Springs (June 13) By The Temple 20s and 30s
Congregation Ahavath Chesed or the Temple’s social group for 20 and 30 something’s is known as ‘T3’. Less than a year old, the group is already making waves in the Jacksonville Jewish community with fun events planned throughout the summer such as First Friday’s, which include events like schul followed by a multi-course mystery dinner or day trips to destinations such as Ginnie Springs near Gainesville. The group was started last August when executive board member
Wiatt Bowers approached fellow synagogue member Nicole Brown and former Temple confirmand Nicole Miller about creating a venue for that age group of Temple goers to meet, socialize and worship. Even though the summer has already begun, it’s not too late to get involved and take part in some of the other activities planned during the dog days. Some of those gatherings include a beach clean-up volunteer day followed by brunch on July 5, a sports outing such as a Suns
or Sharks game, scheduled for July 25 and even a special T3 one-year anniversary celebration on Aug. 7 with more details to follow. Regardless of congregation membership, the group is open to all 20 and 30-year-olds in the Jacksonville or surrounding Jewish community. To start your T3 summer, go to the group’s official facebook page at facebook.com/The-Temple-20s30s or contact group administrators at thetemple20sand30s@ gmail.com.
The Jacksonville Jewish Center’s program, ‘Operation Isaiah’ continues this month with people donating food, toiletries and baby supplies to the Winn Dixie Pantry. The pantry is located at the Jewish Family and Community Services office and thus far folks have donated large quantities in order to meet the demands of the community. The members of the congregation as well as the three schools located on the campus of the Center have all chosen to participate in the year-round drive because hunger refuses to take a month off. Due to the economic crisis and rising unemployment rates in Jacksonville, the shelves of the pantry are being depleted
DuBow Preschool exceeds one family’s expectations BY JOSEPH MERWIN
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on a daily basis. Because of this, those tasked with stocking the shelves are having a hard time meeting the demands of the community which is need of these life-saving items. Donating is easy as there are carts in the lobby of the Center as well as in the school for people to drop off their food and various other supplies. The items currently in desperate need are diapers, wipes and baby food in addition to canned and packaged food as well as toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap and shampoo. The Jacksonville Jewish Center is located on Crown Point between Old St. Augustine Road and San Jose Blvd.
DuBow Preschool Parent
My daughter attended two different preschools here in northeast Florida and another in Gainesville between the ages of two and three. These preschools were not at all bad and were staffed by decent and responsible individuals. Nonetheless, my intuition plagued me with a need for something better for my daughter. It was because of this feeling that in the summer of 2013, I enrolled my then soon-to-be four year-old in the DuBow Preschool and I will never forget my first impression of it. Preschool director Shereen Canady so kindly gave me a tour when I first contacted her following an intensive preschool search in the Jacksonville area. The tour was impressive, with highlights that included an age appropriate science lab and science teacher, two teachers per class which made for a low childto-teacher ratio and regular field trips, not to mention a balanced curriculum and occasional interaction with the day school students (grades kindergarten through eight). These aspects, coupled with valued support from the overall community certainly added to the allure of this newly discovered school. Not only did the highlights of the tour surpass what was discovered on previous preschool tours around town, but the cost was on par with the programs that did not quite offer what DuBow did. With this in mind, I decided that the DuBow Pre-
school was where my daughter needed to be. The morning after my tour I returned to the administrative office to turn in my completed paperwork and begin the process of enrolling her. Even though I had already made up my mind that DuBow was for us, the real clincher came as I was finalizing the enrollment form in the office. That’s when three boys from the upper preschool class walked in and were glowing with confidence, joy and peace. They interacted with several of the teachers that were tending to routine administrative tasks in the office that morning and the mutual respect that unfolded was incredible. I was confident that these boys were displaying a high morale because of the environment at the preschool. Fast forward two years later and it is fair to say that DuBow Preschool has exceeded all of my wishes for my daughter’s early childhood education. She is the happiest, most joyful fiveyear-old I can imagine and she often does not want to leave school when I pick her up. Her social development has been absolutely exemplary and her academic progress is better than expected. She is constantly bringing home new songs to sing, showing us practical and useful crafts for the holidays and has already made what I expect to be lifelong friendships. These great qualities she now possesses are in large part because of the exceptional programming being delivered to students by the Preschool’s teachers.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • July 2015