JJN Mar 15 by JewishLife Magazine

PARTNERSHIP SHALOM JACKSONVILLE Educators make Join the Jewish Java connections with crowd for a Purim-style Israel partners Jokefest.

AMELIA ISLAND Growing Jewish community holds Shabbat, services

page 2

page 4

Jewish News

March

Jacksonville

2015

•

Adar/Nisan

5775

Celebrating 10 years of girlfriends connecting

•

www.jewishjacksonville.org

•

www.facebook.com/JaxJewish

page 4

A publication of the

JEWISH •

Volume

27,

FEDERATION

OF JACKSONVILLE

Number

•

pages

Super and Thank You Sunday a hit

By ERIN COHEN

Women’s Division Director

Ten years ago this May, the Federation Women’s Division started what has become a special tradition – an evening of laughing, learning and friendship called the Girlfriend Connection. The Women’s Division is proud that this event, which brings together Jewish women of all Alison Lebovitz ages, backgrounds, lifestyles and giving levels, is marking this significant anniversary. Save the date for Wednesday, May 13, at 6 p.m. at University of North Florida. This year event co-chairs, Carrie Bielski and Talie Zaifert, along with a dedicated event committee, will help us celebrate 10 years of loyalty and commitment to the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. Our featured guest will be Alison Lebovitz. Alison is an author, television host, speaker and executive who believes that each of us has the power and responsibility to make this world a better place. She is co-founder and president of One Clip at a Time, a nonprofit inspired by The Paper Clips Project started in Whitwell, Tenn., which promotes student activism and supports service learning in classrooms across North America. Alison has been busy traveling the Federation Women’s Division circuit and receiving incredible reviews for her talk as she shares her Jewish story and

8505 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32217

Jewish Federation of Jacksonville

POSTMASTER PLEASE DELIVER BY MAR. 1

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

See GFC, p. 22

Photos by L. Tallis

By JEANINE HOFF rGEN Division Director

The newly rebranded Super and Thank You Sunday was a major success. With more than 60 volunteers representing our six local agencies, the rGEN Steering Committee and the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville’s Board of Directors, thousands of individuals were called in an effort to raise funds and thank those who already committed to supporting our 2015 annual campaign.

rGEN Chair Daniel Miller and Super and Thank You Sunday Chair Shylie Bannon kicked off the morning with a video spotlighting our local and overseas beneficiary agencies. That video can be seen on YouTube at http://youtu.be/FfjyuZmiy2A or by searching rGENJax on Youtube. A tremendous amount of thanks goes out to the staff of the Jewish Community Alliance for hosting the event, the staff of Gan Yeladim for providing babysitting services, and Larry Tallis photography for taking such beautiful photos of the morning.

Join the celebration: River Garden’s 69th anniversary By SKIP WILLBACH River Garden

River Garden’s 69th Anniversary Day celebration will be held Sunday, March 22, from 3 to 6 p.m. Debby Kaye, River Garden Home board member, will chair the day, which has become a wonderful intergenerational community event. The afternoon will include musical entertainment by One More Time, a barbecue, kiddie train rides, a bounce house, pony rides, clowns, face painting and wonderful desserts provided by the River Garden Auxiliary. Sharon Smith and Alice Sherman will serve as the auxiliary’s

co-hostesses for the afternoon. In addition to the outdoor festivities, the annual business meeting of River Garden Senior Services will begin at 4:30 p.m. New officers and board members will be installed. It is hoped that many community members will attend this meeting as this important moment in River Garden’s history is celebrated. River Garden has served thousands of families in this community over these past 69 years. Come and celebrate what River Garden – with support from the entire community – has accomplished. “Each year more and more people

See RIVER GARDEN, p. 22

Also, we couldn’t have done it without the help of our sponsor, Periodontics Laser and Implant Dentistry – Dr. Gary Perlman. Perlman’s support of this event was absolutely incredible.

Martin J. Gottlieb Day School wins challenge The Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, one of the six local recipient agencies of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville, won the

See SUNDAY, p. 22

page 2

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/JaxJewish

COMMUNITY NEWS

Shabbat, Holy Day services observed in Amelia Island Investment Portfolio Analysis Retirement Income Strategies Retirement & Estate Strategies Some of Amelia Island’s 28 members participate in the January Shabbat services. By Jewish Community of Amelia Island

The Jewish Community of Amelia Island is an informal group of individuals and couples that fosters and promotes a Jewish identity in this part of Northeast Florida. The group holds monthly Shabbat services at a member’s home that is either followed by an oneg or preceded by dinner with dessert. The services follow The Gates of Prayer, are led by Ron Price and are conducted in a participatory style. The Torah portion for the week generates lively discussion, and the service includes musical accompaniment.

hing.

The JCAI also convenes for Passover, when those attending include family and friends, and the group swells to over 80 people. High Holy Days are observed, as well, with Rabbi Robert Goodman leading the services. In the winter, JCAI attracts many to celebrate Chanukah, in which we hold a latke-making contest. Reservations are now being accepted for the first night of Passover Seder, April 3. All who are interested are invited to join us. You can contact Debbie Price at DEB203@aol. com or call her at 904-310-6060 and 203-313-3925 (cell) for more information.

Mark H. Kraus CLU®, ChFC®, CASL®

Financial Advisor, Registered Representative, Financial Services Representative

markk@ioms.com

Executive Benefit Strategies Wealth Accumulation Strategies

www.ioms.com

William R. Verhagen CFP®, CPA, CFS, CLU®, ChFC®, CASL® Financial Services Representative, Investment Advisor (Florida / Indiana)

bill@ioms.com

Thank you for the opportunity to be the last financial advisor you will need 4190 Belfort Rd., Ste 300, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.924.6310

50 Leanni Way #C-4 Palm Coast, FL 32137 386.597.2856

Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, New York, NY 10166. Securities and investment advisory services offered by MetLife Securities, Inc. (FINRA/SIPC), a registered investment adviser. Both are MetLife companies. Innovative Financial Solutions, Inc. is not affiliated with MetLife Securities, Inc. L0215409801[exp0716][FL]

Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 • Early Learning Center

ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE

Friday, March 13 to 11 Friday, December 12- 9• a.m. 9 a.m. to a.m. 11 a.m. REGISTER NOW! Call (904) 579-1042 or visit sjcds.net/OpenHouse

Anything. Located in Orange Park, FL • Pre-K3 to Grade 12 • (904) 579-1042 • sjcds.net

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

www.jewishjacksonville.org

page 3

COMMUNITY NEWS

JCA Young Concert Artist Series features violinist Stephen Waarts By IMAN BYFIELD

Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool

The JCA continues its 2015 Young Concert Artists Series with a recital by violinist Stephen Waarts on Sunday, March 15, at 3 p.m. at the JCA. A San Francisco native, Waarts began his musical training with Suzuki violin and piano lessons and went on to study with Li Lin at the San Francisco Conservatory. Having received recognition from a young age, he has been praised for playing “with technical command and a totally natural sense of musical drama” (Strings Magazine). Waarts has performed over 30 standard and rarely performed violin concertos and as a soloist with numerous orchestras throughout California. He is the winner of the 2013 Young Concert Artists International Auditions and made his debut recitals at the Kennedy Center and Merkin Concert Hall. Waarts’ other accolades include first prize at the 2014 Menuhin Competition, second prize and the audience prize in the 2013 Montreal International Competi-

Stephen Waarts tion, and first prize in the 2011 International Louis Spohr Competition for Young Violinists. He works with Aaron Rosand at the Curtis Institute, where he is the Frank S. Bayley Annual Fellow. The Young Concert Artist Series is part of the JCA’s commitment to bringing quality cultural arts programming to Jacksonville. Thanks to the generosity of the Berman Family, all concerts in the Young Concert Artists Series are free for the community. For more information, contact Thelma Nied at 904-730-2100, ext. 227, or Thelma.nied@jcajax.org.

Dine with the Jax Jewish Singles By Jax Jewish Singles

Join the singles for Sunday brunch at Biscotti’s located in Avondale. A local landmark known not

only for its Sunday brunch but also for its decadent desserts and signature biscotti. Please contact Francine for details at 904-2218061 or email francine.smith@ comcast.net.

Thank you 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: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

29 South Restaurant Athens Café B&C Financial Beachview & Party Rentals Bob Ham Eyewear Brandon Pest Control Camp Shalom Classic Kosher Catering Davoli’s Catering Erica Jolles - Magnolia Properties Jewish Community Alliance Jewish Family and Community Services Jewish Museum of Florida

• Margo’s Catering • Mark Kraus, MetLife • Orange Park Medical Center • PaigeWajsman-Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty • River Garden • St. John • St. Johns Country Day School • Stein Mart • Temple Sisterhood • Winn Dixie • World Rhythmics Gymnastics • Business Directory, p. 22

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 Community ................... p. 2 Jewish Community Foundation ................. p. 19 Education....................... p. 7 Federation .................... p. 4 Jewish Family & Community Services... p. 21

Jewish Community Alliance ........................ p. 18 Lifecycles...................... p. 22 Obituaries..................... p. 22 River Garden................ p. 20 Synagogues ................. p. 13 Women’s page ............. p. 5

Junior golfer donates to CFF By Cystic FIbrosis Foundation

It somehow seemed fitting that the day after President Obama mentioned in his State of the Union Address the incredible strides the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has made toward a cure, that the Jacksonville Chapter would receive a surprise donation from a local girl who volunteered her time and talents to finding a cure. Hannah Berman of Ponte Vedra Beach recently donated $3,155.50 to local CF Foundation Executive Director Steve Oswald, who was accompanied by seven-year-old CF patient, Cammie Naff of Neptune Beach. The 16 year-old Ponte Vedra High School Junior has been raising money to fight CF since she was 12 when she started a program called Hitting it with Hannah. Hannah hits tee shots for each foursome at charity events in exchange for a $20 donation that goes to whichever

charity is hosting the tournament. She has done this several times for CF. “Seeing Hannah give that check to Cammie was a truly touching moment,” said Oswald. “It is amazing to see a young adult like Hannah, who has been doing this since she was 12, and for no recognition at all,

take such a leadership role in our community. It is inspiring. I hope it shows other kids that no matter how young they are they can make a difference. I know it meant a lot to Cammie to see a big girl doing something cool like Hannah did. It showed Cammie that she’s not alone and even kids care about her.”

J Institute announces March programs By Jewish Community Alliance

Every month, the JCA’s J Institute brings a new schedule of wellness and education programs for adults in Jacksonville. February featured programs in support of Heart Health Month that included free heart health screenings and programs on preventing and reversing heart disease. J Institute programs for March explore more useful and interesting wellness and enrichment topics. On March 19, explore your artistic side in Canvas and Cocktails, a fun social arts event from 6:30 to 9 p.m. If you have been feeling the stress of the new year, from March 2 through 23 the J Institute has a new clinic combining the ancient arts of yoga and meditation, or Yoga-

tation, designed to improve flexibility, reduce stress and increase energy. While there are many reports and studies on the benefits of making smarter food choices, deciphering the various food labels has become a point of confusion for many shoppers. In Understanding Food Labels on March 12, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., Dr. Jon Repole, nutritionist and holistic health practitioner, will provide a virtual walk through the grocery isle to explain nutritional labels and ingredient statements. In the final installment of the Optimal

Thinking, Optimal Living series on March 25, at 7 p.m., Dr. Elliot Rosenbaum will lead a discussion on Optimal Fulfillment. Finally, the J Institute offers two programs highlighting the current state of Jewish affairs. Unmasking Modern European Anti-Semitism on March 3 provides an in-depth analysis of European anti-Semitism, where it is going and how to combat it as a community. On March 31, join the J Institute for America and Israel: The Way Forward, an enlightening discussion on the future of Israel. Registration is required for all of these J Institute programs. For more information, contact Dorri Kraus at 904-730-2100, ext. 239, or dorri. kraus@jcajax.org. To register, visit www.jcajax.org/ji. The J Institute, experience it.

Perlman to perform March 24 By FSCJ Artist Series

Itzhak Perlman will perform at Jacksonville’s Times-Union Center’s Moran Theater on Tuesday, March 24, at 7:30 p.m. for one night only. Tickets are on sale now through the FSCJ Artist Series, sponsored by Chase, the official presenter of the Jacksonville show. Undeniably the reigning virtuoso of the violin, Itzhak Perlman enjoys superstar status rarely afforded a classical musician. Beloved for his charm and

humanity as well as his talent, he is treasured by audiences throughout the world who respond not only to his remarkable artistry, but also to his irrepressible joy for making music. Itzhak Perlman has established himself as a cultural icon and household name in classical music. He continues to celebrate the rich tradition of Jewish and klezmer music in the 2014-15 season, which takes him to both new and familiar major centers around the world. Having performed with every major orchestra and at venerable

concert halls around the globe, Itzhak Perlman was granted a Kennedy Center Honor in 2003 by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in celebration of his distinguished achievements and contributions to the cultural and educational life of the United States. Tickets for Itzhak Perlman in Concert in Jacksonville start at $42.50 at www.artistseriesjax. org, 904-442-2929. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more at 904-442-2947 or groupsales@ fscj.edu.

St. Johns selected to participate in Apple’s international Teacher Vanguard Certification By St. Johns Country Day School

Over the past year St. Johns Country Day School has initiated an aggressive technology and training program that brings contemporary technology and teaching techniques into the classroom to support its students. As technology in the real world has changed, so have our students. St. Johns is focused on educating learners, preparing them for a future college experience that

is heavily influenced by today’s cutting-edge technology. The school’s Director of Technology Dr. Adam Gaffey recently announced that the school has been selected to participate in Apple’s elite Teacher Vanguard Program. St. Johns is now one of 180 institutions in the world that are approved to offer Apple Vanguard Certification to their teachers. The teaching faculty at St. Johns has already begun to participate in the most up-to-date

technology training. To prepare, Gaffey spent a week at Apple Headquarters in Cupertino, Calif., getting certified to teach the program to the school’s faculty. “The training was both intense and exciting. For 12 hours a day I lived and breathed how to best use technology in the classroom. The entire time we focused on how students learn and how to use technology to support the modern learner,” said Gaffey. “We are preparing our students to do everything, become anything.”

page 4

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/JaxJewish

PERSPECTIVES/FEDERATION NEWS

The changing reality of the college campus By RABBI HOWARD TILMAN Jacksonville Jewish Center

he past 12 months have been very frightening for Jews. Operations and terrorist attacks in Israel, attacks targeting Jews and growing anti-Semitism across Europe and a sense of uneasiness for Jewish people around the world have left many of us feeling very concerned. Included in this list of causes for concern must also be the changing reality of college campuses here in the United States. Although the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement has been around for nearly 10 years, it has gained a great deal of momentum these past two years especially on college campuses. For those unfamiliar, BDS

is a movement led by proPalestinian supporters aimed at encouraging people and organizations to stop supporting companies that do business in Israel. There has been a great deal written about the major flaws with this strategy – it places blame for the situation squarely on Israel, it distorts well-accepted historical facts, and it holds all Jews responsible for specific Israeli policies – but in spite of these flaws, the movement continues to spread to college campuses across the country. In November, the student government at UCLA passed a BDS bill encouraging the university to divest from Israel. (University administrators have wisely decided to ignore this resolution.) In January, the student government at the University

RABBINICALLY SPEAKING

of California – Davis passed a similar resolution. At the time of this writing, a movement has appeared at Northwestern University, my own alma mater, where students are attempting to convince the university that investing in companies that do business with Israel is morally and ethically wrong. Even while I whole-heartedly abhor the goals of BDS movement, I do understand that political and social change frequently come from similar boycott movements. What is terrifying about the BDS movement though is not only the push for an un-just political cause, but rather the rhetoric that is often associated with this movement. After the BDS resolution passed at UC Davis, a student leader posted on social media that “Hamas & Shariah law have taken over UC Davis.” The very next day, swastikas were spray

JDC writes letter to editor on Ukrainians By JDC

The New York Times published last month the following letter on American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee’s work in Ukraine addressing the growing humanitarian crisis.

Aid to war-torn Ukrainians

To the Editor: Your Feb. 7 front-page dispatch from Donetsk, Ukraine, rightly points to critically increasing need in eastern Ukraine, a

humanitarian crisis expanding every day (“Shivering, Hungry and Tearful in Rebel-Held Eastern Ukraine”). In addition to the thousands of elderly and desperately poor Jews we care for in the conflict zone, we also see an increasing trend in the need for our services among working families suffering from unemployment and economic ruin as a result of violence and chaotic conditions in the region, with nearly 1,000 people added to our aid rolls in the last month. Their situation stems not just from the collapse of the Ukrainian

currency and soaring food and medicine prices. Winter’s cold, rising utility costs and strict limits on energy use have also taken a heavy toll. In the face of such conditions, hope can seem lost for many. But we know that the sense of community we extend to them — through a bowl of soup, a space heater or a box of supplies — is a warming reminder that they are not alone. Michal Frank, New York, director of the former Soviet Union department at the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee.

Partnership: Making connections in Israel By ANGELA THEOBALD

painted on the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity house on campus. AEPi is the only officially Jewish fraternity the world. In a promotional video for Northwestern Divest, students held Israel responsible for the tragic deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner. Being proud of an internationally recognized terrorist organization is not fighting for human rights. Utilizing a symbol of the Nazi party that committed the worst genocide in history is not the moral imperative. Holding Israel responsible for tragedies that took place in St Louis and New York does not support Palestinian rights. These are all forms of anti-Semitism, spreading senseless hated of the Jewish people. Universities are supposed to be where new ideas and new research come from. They are supposed to be where the next generation of leaders learn and

train. They are supposed to be safe places where all are comfortable expressing their outlooks and identities. The fact that many universities are becoming harbors for this hate-driven movement is not just a tragedy, but it is terrifying. What will happen in 20 years when our next generation of social, political, business, and religious leaders all spent years maturing in environments like these instead of learning freely and safely? As this school year begins to reach its close it is incumbent on all of us – all of us as Jews, all of us who oppose senseless hatred – to do what we can to ensure that this environment does not continue to spread. To ensure that our youth is well-educated about what they may confront and be forced to put up with during their college years. And to ensure that anti-Semitism has no place in our society.

Jewish Java Purim Jokefest set for March 4 By ISABEL BALOTIN

Shalom Jacksonville Director

Get into the Purim spirit, and join newcomers and friends for a Jewish Java Jokefest on Wednesday, March 4, 9-10:30 a.m., at Village Bread, 10111 San Jose Blvd. Since Purim will be celebrated on March 5, we thought it would be fun to share jokes and funny experiences with each other. The casual atmosphere and the friendly regulars make this monthly event a great entry point for newcomers and those

newly interested in the Jewish community. Find out the latest happenings in the Jewish and general community. You’ll enjoy free coffee with your food purchase. We meet the first Wednesday of every month. Mark your calendars now. To RSVP or for more information, please contact Isabel Balotin, 904-448-5000, ext. 206, or shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org. Shalom Jacksonville is a program of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and is the official Jewish welcome wagon of Northeast Florida.

Israel Partnership

When I was first asked to write this article, I sat for a long time looking at the flashing cursor on my laptop’s screen. After all, who am I to write an article about Israel just based on my eightday experience? That’s when I decided that I would start with the beginning of my trip and the running theme of connection. I ventured to Israel on the Educator Delegation sponsored by the Israel Partnership Program of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. The first night of my journey consisted of a visit to the Kotel. For those of you who have not been there, mere words cannot express the awe felt while there, if not for the spiritual value, then definitely for the historical value, knowing that when you are standing at the wall, thousands of people have placed prayers in the same wall that you are placing yours. The air is charged with energy, full of hope and wonder. It is the kind of experience you wish you could bottle and take back to your students, to inspire their prayers to well up inside of them and to help them feel connected. The next day, as we were touring Jerusalem, there happened to be a harpist sitting on a ledge just within the Jerusalem Gate in the old city. As our group rounded the corner, she began to play HaTikvah. As we began to sing along with her instrumentals, a feeling of connection developed within me. Connection to Israel, connection to those whom I was with, a deeper connection to my own Jewish soul. How I wish I could

Jacksonville

Jewish News Advertising Representatives Barbara Nykerk • 904.733.4179 Eta Perras • 904.629.0466

instill that sense of connection in my students! At one point we made the obligatory visit to a kibbutz. After all, what trip to Israel is complete if there is not a visit to a kibbutz? We visited Ein Shemer kibbutz and toured its green house before working on our Jewish peoplehood project. The unique thing about Ein Shemer to me was its inclusivity. All over Israel it seemed that Arab and Jewish citizens were constantly involved in a struggle with one another, but at Ein Shemer there was peace. All were welcome, and all were connected to one another due to the simple fact that they were human. Connection seems to be the one thing we work toward having as humans, and there they were succeeding in making that a reality. Finally, we traveled to our schools. My school, Govnim High School, was open and welcom-

ing. The goal of traveling to the school was to make a connection between Israeli youth and our American youth. While I participated in activities and took a tour of the school, it was made apparent that their students are developing something that I hope we can instill in our own Jewish students, and that is a feeling of connection to Israel. In the end, the trip was all about making connections and how to take those connections and bring them back to our schools to establish a lasting union. Though we are still working out the logistics, I do believe that our students in the Temple Institute of Religion at Congregation Ahavath Chesed will make their connections with new Israeli friends. Hopefully, they too will one day take their developing connection and travel to Israel in search of how to bring back their experience to the community.

Communications Committee Jon Israel, Chair Shirley Bielski Helen Hill Michele Katz Joan Levin Andrea Mail Rachel Morgenthal Andrew Ocean Marsha Pollock Federation President Hal Resnick 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.

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

New York meets Jacksonville

By River Garden Auxiliary

There’s no place quite like the Big Apple, and you can get there without leaving Jacksonville by attending the 19th annual River Garden Auxiliary Special Event on Thursday, April 23, at the Jacksonville Marriott. The auxiliary will be honoring Betty Abisch and Fran Leibowitz, past co-chairs of the Auxiliary Special Event. You’ll think you’re on Canal Street or trendy stores in Greenwich Village as you shop at the silent auction beginning at 11 a.m. After lunch at Shelly’s Deli, you’ll be treated to a fashion show direct from Fifth Avenue presented by A’propos Boutique. Your friends in the auxiliary will be walking the runway as the

models. The special event is co-chaired by Rhoda Goldstein and Ilana Manasse. For further information and reservations, call Rhoda at 904-268-8124 or Ilana at 904733-7765. The minimum donation to attend is $50. Other sponsorships are available with reserved tables for eight for $500 sponsors and $1,000 patron contributors. The River Garden Auxiliary members work to financially support River Garden Senior Services and its programs. Members volunteer thousands of hours to help provide for the needs of the residents. All monies raised by the auxiliary are returned to River Garden to enhance the lives of the residents.

Join Beth El Sisterhood By Beth El Sisterhood

Join us as we serve our synagogue, support our community and enrich our lives. Beth El Sisterhood has enjoyed and will continue to enjoy serving Beth El with our providing Onegs and Kiddushes, a full service gift shop and fundraising so we can give back and assist in the financial support of our synagogue. We proudly serve our community in a variety of ways. Some recent examples include when we delivered four carloads of food to our First Responders on Christmas Day and we sponsored Relay Station 1 during the 26.2 Donna Run.

We enrich our lives with our Girls Night programs, which have included a SteinMart fashion show, line dancing lessons, crafty night when we learned to braid hallah and made a no-sew blanket, and scrapbooking. We are looking forward to a cooking class in March and Bunco in May. We will enrich our lives by participating in our Tu B’Shevat Seder and Miriam’s Seder in March. This is just a sample of the events our energetic, creative, caring and fun loving group has enjoyed and plans to enjoy. For more information about any of the events or membership, please contact Vickie Kennedy vk1996@ aol.com or 904-318-7204.

Sisterhood honors Morris By Center Sisterhood

On Jan. 31, Center Sisterhood honored its Torah Fund Campaign donors and presented this year’s Horty T. Gendzier Woman of Achievement award to Robin Morris. Robin has been a strong supporter of the Torah Fund Campaign and a leader in Center Sisterhood for over 30 years. Robin exemplifies the goal of the Torah Fund Campaign – women ensuring the future of Jewish education – in her role as an educator at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School. While wearing her Morah Rachel hat, she has been teaching at the Center for over 37 years. In addition, she attended Ivriyon at JTS – an in-house intensive program for non-Israeli Hebrew teachers from around the world. In addition to celebrating Robin and the Torah Fund

page 5

www.jewishjacksonville.org

WOMEN’S NEWS

Women’s Activism is alive and well

policy statements on the issues facing world Jewry are combating anti-Semitism and supporting Israel. We urge you – this month, in honor of Women’s History Month – to invest your time, energy and skills, and help us continue to make history through activism. Whether you are a member of Hadassah or whether you are a potential member, you are cordially invited to join us at a Hadassah social on Sunday, March 8, at 1 p.m., when we will also feature a program, Why Israel? Why Now? For further information, call Leah Ben-Yehuda, president, at 904-543-8128, or Shoshana Haas, membership VP, at 904262-3537.

By Jacksonville Hadassah

Survey the lives of American Jewish women, and chances are you will hear countless stories of their activism in social justice movements. American Jewish women – from the immigrant generation to the millennials today, have invested their time, energy and skills in righting the world’s wrongs in the fight for social equality. That is the spirit of the American Jewish woman. And, it is in this spirit and in recognition of Women’s History Month, that we recognize the women of Hadassah the Women’s Zionist Organization of America – past and present. Hadassah members have long advocated important issues in both the United States and

throughout the world. The advocacy policy priorities adopted by Hadassah include: gender equality in medical research, women’s preventative health (such as Every Beat Counts: Hadassah’s Heart Health Program), human trafficking (a program that Jacksonville Hadassah helped to sponsor last month), and affordable healthcare. Among its

Eye Exams Now Available

Performed by an Independent Doctor of Optometry

Bob Ham Eyewear 9760 San Jose Boulevard (across from Outback Steakhouse)

(904) 268-5949 We provide service after the sale! Our reputation has been built on serving you since 1969. George Sweat, Dr. Sheila Merritt, OD; Kathy Whitman; Bob Ham

Visit us today in our new location!

Exams Prescription Eyeware ■ Contacts ■ ■ CONGREGATION AHAVATH CHESED WOMEN OF REFORM JUDAISM

Sunglasses

stronger together

TEMPLE SISTERHOOD CONGREGATION AHAVATH Extends an invitation to women of CHESED all ages To attend the 22 Annual WOMEN OF REFORM JUDAISM nd

stronger together

TEMPLE SISTERHOOD Julie R. Spitzer Memorial Women’s Seder ExtendsThursday, an invitation to women of all ages March 26, 2015 To attend thep.m. 22nd Annual 6:30

Julie R. SpitzerMiriam Memorial $108Women’s Seder Rachel $72 March 26, Angel Thursday, 2015 $54

Patron $366:30 p.m.

Chai $18

Young women ages 6 – 16 $9 Miriam $108 Passover light vegetarian fare will be served.

Rachel $72

Angel $54

$36‫ חרות‬, we encourage Chai $18you to attend In the spirit Patron of Freedom, womendaughters, ages 6 – granddaughters 16 $9 this event withYoung your mothers, and all of the special women in your life.

Passover light vegetarian fare will be served. Seating is limited to the first 250 reservations. In the Please spirit include of Freedom, ‫חרות‬ , we to encourage you to attend your check payable Temple Sisterhood. R.S.V.P. by March 16, 2015 this event with your mothers, daughters, granddaughters and

all of the special women in your life.

For more information, contact Shana Boer at 406-0080.

Donors, the nearly 300 members of the community in attendance enjoyed a performance by NYU’s premiere Jewish acapella group, Ani V’ata. For more information about the Torah Fund Campaign and how it supports the seminaries of the Conservative Movement, visit www.jtsa.edu/_Support_JTS/ Torah_Fund.

Seating is limited to the first 250 reservations. Proceeds from event benefit House. Please include yourthis check payable toHubbard Temple Sisterhood. R.S.V.P. by March 16, 2015 For more information, contact Shana Boer at 406-0080. Proceeds from this event benefit Hubbard House.

page 6

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/JaxJewish

Sharing new beginnings

FEDERATION NEWS

rGEN Young Professionals Network teams up for Purim By JEANINE HOFF rGEN Division Director

rGEN’s Young Professionals Network has teamed up with the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s SoShul Network and Congregation Ahavath Chesed’s Temple

20s and 30s group to celebrate Purim with Purim Another One 2. This event is a follow-up to last year’s successful Purim Another One happy hour, presented by rGEN. rGEN Chair Daniel Miller was thrilled about bringing the

three groups together to copresent a Purim celebration. Co-presenting has been one of Miller’s goals as chair of rGEN because he believes that we are one community, and when we unite, we are stronger and more successful.

Do you wanna bake a haman(taschen)?

By JEANINE HOFF rGEN Division Director

By ISABEL BALOTIN and JUDITH FOX-GOLDSTEIN Shalom Jacksonville

For some of our new families, moving to Northeast Florida can be culture shock. While the common denominator of our newcomers is Judaism, there are other aspects of their lives that require certain connections. My philosophy is to find out as much as I can about the person and introduce him/her to others with similar interests, lifestyle, background, etc. Judith and Michael Goldstein recently moved here from Hawaii. Judith and I had been emailing for months prior to her move to St. Johns County. She graciously shares her thoughts about her Shalom Jax and Jewish community experiences. Having moved here from the Big Island of Hawaii, everything was new, overwhelming and larger than life. Not sure where to begin, I reached out to Isabel Balotin for some familiar connections and advice on acclimating to St. Augustine. Little did I know that Isabel and the Jewish community would be not just the beginning, but a continuous and relentless lifeline of information and friendship. I was so delighted to meet Isabel in person at the January Jewish Java. After getting a warm hug from her, she introduced me to Marvin and Carole Feldman, whose gracious warmth truly overwhelmed me. They literally took me into the fold and made me feel like one of the ‘ohana (family). Although traveling back and forth to Hawaii has not enabled me to get together with them, I extend a sincere mahalo (thank you) to

the Feldman’s for their extension of friendship and hope to connect with them in the future. Shortly after the Java event, at Isabel’s suggestion, Sandy Selwitz called. We met for a delightful breakfast and really clicked. She’s so very warm, interesting and bright, and it was very gracious of her to host me for breakfast at the Metro (what a wonderful discovery that was!). Sandy and I had many common interests, and we plan to meet again soon. Mahalo, again. Another couple we look forward to meeting shortly is Leigh and Jay Greene, who have graciously sent us all kinds of information about the community and Northeast Florida. It truly warms my heart that you and the community are putting forth such incredible effort to help us adjust. The warmth and generosity come through every e-mail and your help (or as we say in Hawaii - your kokua) has been very important to me. As a stranger in a strange land, so much is overwhelming, The only counter balance to that feeling of isolation is making new friends, and finding people you relate to and enjoy being with. Friends create that sense of belonging and kinship. I’m not sure there is anything more important than a sense of community and bonding. With no intent of a planned agenda – just an extension of friendship – Isabel is an incredible resource. She has set the bar very high in the welcome wagon field, and she has made me want to pay it forward to all those who have reached out to welcome us. The gift of friendship is invaluable, and I am very grateful for her kokua. Mahalo and aloha – or as we say in Hawai`i, shaloha!

rGEN Guys Night Out enjoys some Whiskey Business By JEANINE HOFF rGEN Division Director

It was a night of whiskey, bourbon and rye tasting at rGEN’s Guys Night Out event, Whiskey Business. Host Jesse Bannon shared his expertise on whiskey as well as some of the history of whiskey making in the United States. Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum of Etz Chaim also joined the guys, sharing some thoughts on why

Jews are encouraged to drink until we don’t know the difference between cursed is Haman and blessed is Mordechai. rGEN Chair Daniel Miller was excited about the event given the recent rise in bourbon and whiskey drinking in the United States. According to Bruce Schreiner of the Associated Press, “U.S. revenue for bourbon and Tennessee whiskey rose by 9.6 percent to $2.7 billion last year.”

rGEN’s Girls Only (GO) and Etz Chaim’s WiFi (Women’s Informal Inspiration) have teamed up to co-present, Tic Tac Dough: A Mother and Child Hamantaschen Baking event, in Julington Creek at the lovely home of Allison Jacobs on Sunday, March 1, at 3:30 p.m. Both Girls Only and WiFi have been doing programming throughout the

Jewish community geared toward engaging younger Jewish women. This is the first of two events that Girls Only and WiFi will present together in Julington Creek. The next event is a Shavuot cheesecake baking event in May at the home of Carrie Bielski. Bielski will also chair another women’s event in May for the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville along with Talie Zaifert. Together, they will chair the 10th Annual Girl-

friend Connection. Look for more details about the cheesecake baking and the Girlfriend Connection coming soon. For more information on rGEN Girls Only or upcoming events, please visit www.jewishjacksonville.org/rGENJax. For more information about Etz Chaim’s WiFi, please contact Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum at avifeigenbaum@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page, WiFiJax.

25 OFF

PEST/LAWN/TERMITE

Locally owned & operated by Stuart M. Herman

Save $25 Off Any New Annual Service Contract

Valid For New Annual Services Only. Not Valid With Any Other Offer.

WWW.PESTFREE.COM • CALL TODAY FOR A FREE INSPECTION Jacksonville 739-9916

Orange Park 272-1920

Beaches 285-6362

St. Augustine 826-4362

Fernadina 261-8880

Palm Coast 447-0013

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

page 7

www.jewishjacksonville.org

EDUCATION

Block Gan participates in educator delegation Voted America’s Best Department Store

See all the latest Spring

trends

By MOLLY SWEET

Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool

In December, a group of educators from the Jacksonville community participated in a unique travel experience abroad. In a trip organized by the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville’s Israel Partnership Program, 24 teachers from nine different Southeast Consortium communities traveled to Israel for a week long educator’s delegation to Hadera-Eiron, Jacksonville’s partnership region. Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten teacher Jenn Baker enthusiastically signed up for her first Israel experience. “The trip gave me so much perspective. To teach in a Jewish school in the United States is one thing, but to actually visit Israel and see the culture before your eyes is a completely different experience,” reflects Jenn. “I learned so much from my week in Israel and I’m really excited to bring that back to my classroom.” It’s not just Jenn’s students who benefit from her travel insights. The other faculty members at Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten delighted in her shared reflections, stories and photos from her time in Israel.

“We are thrilled Jenn got to experience Israel through an educator’s lens,” says Rochelle Golomb, assistant director of Michele Block Gan Yeladim. The program included a week of touring destinations in the country, school site visits, home hospitality and comprehensive visits to schools similar to those of the teachers. Participants traveled to Hadera, Pardes Hana-Karkur, Menashe Regional Council and Alona. In each destination, there were opportunities for cultural exchange with Israeli educators, with the intent of developing meaningful engagement between the Jacksonville Jewish community and the Jewish community in Israel.

The Jewish Educators Assembly, the professional organization of educators in the conservative movement, just completed its 63rd Annual Conference at the University of Maryland. Lois Tompkins of the Jacksonville Jewish Center was among those in attendance. The four-day gathering brought together congregational school principals, heads of Solomon Schechter Day Schools, early childhood directors, bureau and agency personnel and informal educators from all across North America and Israel. The theme of this year’s conference was Engaging With Israel: New Realities / New Opportunities. Marc Rosenberg of Nefesh B’Nefesh and David Breakstone, vice chair of the World Zionist Organization, were among the featured speakers. Additional sessions were led by the Center for Israel Education in Atlanta and the iCenter from Chicago. Attendees previewed the new film, “Beneath the Helmut,” a compelling look at the stories of four Israeli teens from diverse backgrounds as they enter the army. A

Voted America’s

BEST DEPARTMENT STORE by USA TODAY 10Best readers

Earn a $10 Reward for every 300 points! Join today in store or visit

steinmartrewards.com

Jax Jewish News Ad Job Number: ............................................................. March 2015 Ad Run Date: .................................................................. 2/13 Release: ......................................................................... 6.0833" x 7" Ad Size: .......................................................................... Velox/Slick: NO Color matchprint/film: NO Special Instructions:...................................................... b/w

JEA holds 63rd annual conference in Maryland By Jacksonville Jewish Center

up to 60% OFF department store prices, every day

highlight was a visit to the Israeli Embassy in Washington for a policy briefing, and questions and answers. Participants shared ideas and information on topics such as teacher supervision, report cards, and evaluations and standards for Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Another round of workshops showcased new ideas and materials from organizations including Chai Mitzvah, the Institute for Southern Jewish Life, United Synagogue, JTS and Behrman House’s Online Learning Center. Participants also viewed new texts, materials and resources as they browsed vendors and exhibitors. Torah study sessions were held, and a great deal of networking took place with participants sharing ideas and information over meals and get-togethers. The conference provides a rich opportunity for professional growth, exploration of new trends and ideas, and acquisition of concrete programs and materials to bring home to each school and synagogue. For more information about the Jewish Educators Assembly visit us on the web at www.jewisheducators.org.

...................................................... Linescreen ......................................................

Glori Katz ...............

Lori Price ................

Leigh Flemister.......

Susan Miller ...........

Lori Chelf ................

Celeste Hite............

Anthony Agresta ....

zip disk:

Buyer ......................

Ship: ......................................................

Spell Check ............

Laser copy:

......................................................

Modern Regional Cuisine in Historic Fernandina 904-277-7919

page 8

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/JaxJewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

EDUCATION

Michele Block Gan Yeladim prepares for Purim

DuBow Preschool’s Tu B’Shevat celebrated with parsley and dads By DuBow Preschool

By Block Gan

During Purim, it is customary to exchange Purim baskets, or misloach manot, which translates to “sending of portions.” Derived from the Book of Esther, this tradition ensures that everyone has food for the Purim feast. Students in Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool have been preparing Purim baskets for a few special recipients this year — JCA staff members. The students will celebrate Purim by parading through the building in their costumes to deliver the treat-laden baskets. “I got a basket last year. It was such a sweet gesture and quite a surprise,” says Molly

Sweet, who teaches music at Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool. Every class decorates a basket, picks a different staff person and fills the baskets with chocolates, fruits and hamantaschen. “We are one big community and the students love seeing the delighted reactions of our members as we parade in costume carrying groggers and giving out baskets,” says Rochelle Golomb, assistant director at Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool. Preparations are also under way for the school wide Purim Play Day, in which parent volunteers help with carnival-like stations while handing out prizes and hamantaschen. The excitement is palpable.

Mommy Sale is almost here By DuBow Preschool

This is a sale unlike any other in town. Mark your calendars: April 19, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. The Mommy Sale will be an annual sale held at the Jacksonville Jewish Center every spring. Parents will find all the baby and young children’s items they need in one huge gymnasium. New parents (and grandparents if baby will be visiting their house) can shop for all the gently used baby gear and clothes they need at nice, low

prices. Experienced parents can rent a table for $25 and sell their clothes and gear and keep 100 percent of the profits. It’s like a large indoor yard sale with 60plus families selling only items for pregnancy through 5 years old. We are looking for volunteers for the day of the sale. Admission is $1. Reserve your table now – the buzz is spreading fast. Find information on shopping or selling at: www.facebook. com/themommysale.

facebook.com/ Beachview Tent Rentals

912-510-3800 GA

BEACHVIEW.NET

904-381-8877 FL

This Tu B’Shevat our students celebrated by planting seeds with important members of their family trees. Holding our Donuts with Dads program on the same day allowed for dads, grandpas, uncles and other family members to join us in having a sweet treat as they planted seeds. Parsley seeds were planted in small cups with fresh soil. When watered at home, our hope is that they will grow into beautiful plants that will help us fill our Passover Seder plates. To celebrate the New Year of the Trees all of our classes learned new holiday songs; and even our smallest friends are singing about the apples, paper, and wood that come from trees. Beautiful tree themed crafts are hanging in the classes and have also been added to our art gallery in our entrance. It was a special event, made even more special because we could share it with people that mean so much to us.

Hemming Park extravaganza planned By SILVIA ROMERO CAVIN DuBow Preschool

Tzeeporim students at the Dubow Preschool will enjoy a unique experience at Hemming Park in downtown Jacksonville at the end of March. In the early 1820s, this public square was created by Isaiah D. Hart, considered to be the founder of Jacksonville. After his death, his relatives sold the space to the city for $10. Surrounding the park were the St. James Hotel and other fine establishments, patronized by well- off people living within the 3-mile radius from the center of the park. Meanwhile,

there were muddy roads, cows and pigs just outside the perimeter, as Jacksonville was expanding its city core. Presidents such as Roosevelt, Eisenhower and Kennedy and Nixon have given talks right in Hemming Park. Previously called Hemming Plaza, the newly renovated Hemming Park caters to families and people of all ages in a variety of ways. The space is under massive transformation by creating more green space, the recent addition of a café, a performance stage and a kids’ zone. Students will enjoy taking the Skyway into Hemming Park, interacting with the Imagination

Playground equipment, watching a magician and enjoying life-size chess pieces right in the park on their visit. There will also be engaging musicians and art viewing opportunities for the children to experience. Downtown’s renaissance is evident in the surrounding businesses, such as Sweet Pete’s, City Hall, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Main Library and the Bullbriar restaurant in the Marble Bank building. Its partnership with Downtown Vision and others is creating a buzz of vibrancy and awakening in our urban core. For more information, visit www.hemmingpark.org.

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

page 9

www.jewishjacksonville.org

EDUCATION

Baby’s first class gathers Tzedakah project of the for Family Music and Movement month features Kelsi

Young Gift of Care

By DuBow Preschool

Every Wednesday, 12 little music makers and their mommies, daddies, or grandmas gather in a room at the DuBow Preschool to sing about animals, ABCs, their bodies and learn about the world of music. This is a mixed-age class, which research shows to be the most natural way for children to learn. The 4-month-old in our class learns from the 18-montholds, and the 2-year-olds sometimes learn new skills by demonstrating to younger friends. It’s a wonderful first class for mom and baby. As they grow they can get more out of the different aspects of class. For the older kids, it’s a great introduction to class format, listening to the teacher, and transitioning from one activity to the next. This class

By DuBow Preschool

has 12 sections, always done in the same order so that they learn a routine. Each child develops a level of confidence by knowing what comes next. This class is open to the Jack-

sonville community, so reserve a spot and bring a friend. Next session begins March 4. Limited to 12 spots. More information at www.familymusicandmovement. com.

Michele Block Gan Yeladim offers extended hours for working parents By MOLLY SWEET

Every Friday, the children and families at the DuBow Preschool are encouraged to participate in the mitzvah of tzedakah, righteous giving. During February all money collected was donated to the Kelsi Young Respite Care Fund. Kelsi Leah Young (1/28/05 – 12/1/05) was a patient in the Community PedsCare program. Her family and friends established the Kelsi Young Respite Care Fund in 2008 in her honor to ensure that more families have access to respite care. More than $196,000 has been raised to date allowing for

respite care to the more than 280 children and families in the Community PedsCare program. Families who received respite care attended school meetings, siblings’ activities, funerals of family members and doctors’ appointments, among other things. Several in the Young family are alumni of the preschool at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Morah Miriam and Michelle Margol suggested that we share the important work that the Kelsi Young Fund is doing and ask our families to support them. To learn more and help more families have access to respite care, visit http://www.supportcommunityhospice.com.

Classic Kosher Catering, Inc

904-386-5610 classickoshercatering@gmail.com

Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool

According to a 2014 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 59 percent of families with children, all caregivers within the home work. Demands of the workplace can call parents away from their children early in the morning and keep them until late into the evening. For those parents, Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool’s extended hours allow them to maintain a full-time professional schedule, while their children participate in stimulating and enriching activities all day. Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool is fully operational from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. “Many of our parents are full-time professionals, so we try to make sure that our hours of operation can fit their schedules,” says Rochelle Golomb, assistant director of Michele Block Gan Yeladim. How do Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool instructors keep their students engaged for a full day? Instructors team up to provide the most structured, ageappropriate, engaging activities. An average day includes regular class instruction, movement and physical education, project-based activities, community curriculum partnerships, literacy time and afternoon enrichment classes like sports, cooking, Spanish, theatre,

Announces the return of…….Seders

To Go!

Tired of changing over your kitchen early, just to cook?

Want a homemade traditional Seder without the mess?

music, swimming and yoga. “Our goal is to meet each child’s needs,” says Golomb. “When a child needs us for 10 and a half hours, we provide quality childcare and education for the entire time. We keep children engaged and stimulated within the appropriate age group and environment until the very end of

the day when you see very small groups or even one to one ratios.” Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool has enrollment offerings from three hours a day twice a week to all day, Monday through Friday. Tours are welcome any time. Call 904-730-2100, ext. 259, for more information.

For Girls & Boys approx. 7-16 years

ENROLL NOW!

Jacksonville

Then try our Select-A-Meal! Choose one from each column: Main Course

Side Dish

Vegetable

Sweet brisket (brined, with apples) * Savory brisket (wine and onions) * Stuffed chicken (1/4)

Farfel casserole – sweet or savory Mushroom/ celery stuffing

Candied fresh sweet potatoes * Rosemary bliss potatoes *

Vegetable kugel *

Steamed or roasted vegetables *

Dessert Brownies

Chremslach (small dried fruit pancakes) Stewed cinnamon apples *

Herb stuffed breast cutlet Veggie loaf with gravy *denotes non gluten ingredients

Jewish News

All dinners come with gefilte fish and your choice of matzo ball or tomato vegetable soup.

Due Dates

$27.99 per person

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.

Attention Alumni:

There’s still time to reserve your spot for this year’s Camp Reunion (March 26th—29th)! Call or E-mail for further details.

CampShalomFL@gmail.com · www.CampShalom.net Winter: P.O. Box 160306, Miami, FL 33116 · 305.279.0401 Summer: 168 Camp Shalom Trl, Orange Springs, FL 32181 · 352.546.2223

FAMILY SPECIAL! Seder for 10—only $250. (includes all seder plate items) Order deadline: Monday, March 30th All meals delivered Friday, April 3

Special orders available upon request

page 10

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/JaxJewish

EDUCATION

Jacksonville Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2009Jewish News • March 2015

Galinsky students raise SYN Michele Block Gan Yeladim Beth Shalom Congregat SYNA Open Housefor kicks local off SYNA nonprofit live theatre is just a walk away money Beth Shalom Congregati new year’s plans Beth Shalom Congregatio Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2009 Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2009

Jacksonville Jewish News • September 2009

Beth Shalom Congregatio

By MOLLY SWEET

Open House kicks off Plans are inHouse high gear at Beth Open kicks off new year’s plans Shalom for an exciting year. Open House kicks off new year’s plans A successful open house and new year’s plansand the brunch was held recently

Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool

Throughout the year, students at Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool excitedly prepare for field trips to see live theatre productions. But instead of climbing on a school bus, they open their classroom doors, head down the hallway and enter the world of make believe. Joining them are students from area schools, making the JCA’s theatre productions a top field trip destination in Jacksonville. These theatre programs are designed for students in preschool through grade two, and are often based on classic children’s stories and traditions. Throughout the year, there are eight or nine different productions, each with several performances, adding up to 50 to 60 shows a year with about 25,000 in attendance. “Prior to a Magic Wardrobe in-house field trip, our instructors begin incorporating themes from the play into their classroom lessons to familiarize students with

Plans are in high gear at Beth

congregation is eagerly welcomPlans in high gear at Beth Shalom for are an exciting year. ingAall their new members. Shalom for an exciting successful house and Plans are open in high gearyear. at Beth A ritual successful open house and the The is busy brunch was held recently and Shalom forcommittee an exciting year. brunchtowas held recently and the with plans enhance the High congregation eagerly A successful is open housewelcomand congregation is eagerly welcomHoliday services and to make brunch was held recently and the ing all their new members. ing all their new members. the congregation services more enjoyable and is eagerly welcomTheThe ritual committee is busy ritual committee is busy ingwith all members. spiritual astheir well as morethe incluwith plans tonew enhance High plans to enhance the High Thewelcoming ritual committee ismake busy Holiday services and sive and to tonewcomHoliday services and tomake with tomore enhance the High services enjoyable and services more enjoyable and ersthe to the theplans synagogue. Holiday services and to make spiritual as well as more incluspiritual as well as more incluOur adult education comthesive services more enjoyable and and welcoming tonewcomnewcomsive anddedicated welcoming mittee is to to creating spiritual as well as more incluers to the synagogue. ers to the synagogue. newsive andand innovative classes and welcoming to comnewcomadult education comOurOur adult education

the story and get them excited for the show,” says Rochelle Golomb, assistant director of Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool. “It’s especially nice for students who are too young to go on field trips off campus. This gives them exposure to the ultimate dramatic play without even leaving the building. We can provide that stimulating experience to students who otherwise would not see live theatre

until much later.” The JCA is the only continually producing children’s theatre program in the area, offering a place for students to learn and grow in their love for performing arts. “We’re a theatre where everyone is welcome. The JCA is very proud of reaching so many children in our community through our Magic Wardrobe Theatre,” says Shelly Hughes, JCA theatre director.

Healthy start made fun at DuBow Preschool By SHEREEN CANADY DuBow Preschool

Learning how to take care of our bodies, eating healthy foods, and getting plenty of physical exercise is fun. As children’s bodies and brains develop, healthy food and physical activity is a must for normal growth and development. The children at the DuBow Preschool have been trying out new foods, growing vegetables, learning to cook, and participating in fun indoor and outdoor physical games. The teachers have been learning about how to integrate healthy

programs for the congregants to B enjoy and learn. com The membership committee welc has instituted a new promotion mun programs for the congregants to Beth for new members for the comof op enjoy andfor learn. commit programs the for congregants to ing year. Dues newcomers Beth Sh Theand membership committee welcom enjoy learn. programs for the congregants to committed Beth S to Beth Shalom will be $360 has instituted a new promotion The membership committee munity welcoming enjoy and learn. committe for one year of membership, hasThe instituted a newfor promotion munity tha for new members the of oppo membership committee welcomin which includes seats forcomthe High for new for the comofmunity opportun ing year.members Duesa for newcomers has instituted new promotion th Holidays. ingBeth year.Shalom Dues forwill newcomers to for new members for be the$360 comof opport Regular worship are to Beth will be services $360 for one year offor membership, ing year.Shalom Dues newcomers forBeth one year ofevenings, membership, held Friday followed which includes seats for$360 the High to Shalom will be which seats for and the High by an includes oneg Shabbat, SaturHolidays. for one year of membership, Holidays. day mornings followed byHigh a deliwhich includes seats for the Regular worship services Regular worship services areare cious Kiddush luncheon. Minyan Holidays. held Friday evenings, followed held Friday evenings, followed worship services are services are held Tuesday eveby an oneg Shabbat, andSaturSaturby Regular an oneg Shabbat, and held Friday evenings, followed day followed a delinings and Sunday mornings. day mornings mornings followed bybya deliby an oneg Shabbat, andMinyan Saturcious Kiddush luncheon. Minyan cious Kiddush luncheon. Sisterhood and Men’s Club day mornings followed by aevedeliservices are held Tuesday services are held Tuesday are also busy planning evefor the cious luncheon. Minyan nings Kiddush and Sunday mornings. nings andyear Sunday mornings. Boo Bo coming with exciting proservices are held eveSisterhood and Men’s Sisterhood andTuesday Men’sClub Club Join Joiu gramming. nings and Sunday mornings. are also also busy planning for Bow are busy planning forthethe that

choices into their daily routines and lessons. The DuBow Preschool joined the National Early Care and Education Learning Collaborative, a collaborative implemented by Nemours and funded by the Centers for Disease Control. The project is an intervention aligned with “Preventing Childhood Obesity in Early Care and Education Programs”, selected standards from “Caring for Our Children” and the goals of Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move!” child care campaign. “We are examining our practices and making some positive

changes. We have begun familystyle dining during snack time and cooking more whole grains. Last week the children enjoyed their snack of brown rice and fruit. Another grain the children enjoyed serving themselves was quinoa,” shared Katherine Morris, one of DuBow Preschool’s ECELC leaders. The school has also started germinating the seeds that will soon be planted in their class organic vegetable gardens. The children will soon be enjoying tomatoes, cucumbers and zucchini muffins, just a few of the veggies they will grow, harvest, clean and prepare.

Federation seeks Communications Director

The Communications Director coordinates the production, design and editing efforts for the monthly Jewish community newspaper. Other responsibilities include: managing the Federation website, oversight of social media and other marketing efforts. The ideal candidate will have previous experience producing a newspaper and have excellent writing, editing and layout skills. Proficiency with InDesign is preferred. Graphic design experience a plus. Competitive salary and benefits package offered. Email resume to patrickb@jewishjacksonville.org.

“DEPENDABLE SERVICE YOU CAN RELY ON”

BUY • SELL INVEST WITH US! paige@paigewajsman.com 904.476.4120 Cell 904.629.4663 Office ilan@paigewajsman.com 352.234.4526 Cell www.paigewajsman.com

issynagogue. dedicatedtotocreating creating ersmittee to the mittee is dedicated new innovative classes and By new Galinsky Academy Our adult education com-and andand innovative classes mittee is dedicated to creating new and innovative classes and Students at the Galinsky

S So

tha coming year proSisterhood andexciting Men’s Club Join show coming yearwith with exciting prosho gramming. are also busy planning fortheir the own Tues. Religious School held that gramming. Tue coming year with rally and run onexciting Sunday,proFeb. 22. 25, show 29 25, gramming. The children collected sponTue sorships from their families and Buzz 25, Bu friends prior to the fun run, and Natura Na beeke Bu on Memories of Love Day the bee will sh Natu students learned about the orga- and wil h bee nization and the families that it and Wed., will has helped. We and The J The fun run consisted of a Wed Thi one-mile loop on school grounds. one

Beth El education director BethElEleducation education director Beth director doubles as cantorial soloist Beth El education director doubles as cantorial soloist

Academy schools are raising money to help families dealing with illness to El forget their pain When Beth The Beach for a little while. When Beth El Synagogue sought toThe hireBeach a new OnWhen Feb.director 17, sought Martin J. GotBeth ElitThe Synagogue toBeach hire a new education was hard to education director it was hard Synagogue sought to hire a newto tlieb Day School and DuBow imagine it would find a Beach professionWhen Beth El The imagine it woulditof find professioneducation director was hard to Preschool students allabargain. ages al cantorial soloist into the Synagogue sought abargain. new al cantorial soloist inhire the imagine it would find a professionheld aBut rally and fun run to benefit Buteducation that isthat just what a search comdirector it was hard to issoloist just what a search comalimagine cantorial in the bargain. the Memories of Love itfound. would find aFoundaprofessionmittee found. mittee But that is just whatinabased search tion, organization incomal an cantorial the bargain. “When the search commit“When the soloist search commitmittee found. Butteethat just what awe search metisNaomi Chase, we were Jacksonville, which works tocomtee met Naomi Chase, were “When thenot search commitmittee found. impressed only with her wide create joyful memories for chilimpressed not only with her wide tee range met Naomi Chase,commitwe were ofparents experiences and her a “When the search dren whose are facing range of experiences andalso her impressed not only with her wideher intellect, but we with teeobvious met Naomi Chase, were life-threatening illness. obvious intellect, but also with range of experiences andStudents herwide sincere passion to with help Beth Elher to impressed not only her at the Bernard & Selevan sincere passion to Alice help Beth El to obvious but also with her grow and develop,” said Marcy range ofintellect, experiences and her sincere passion help Beth El her to Sandler, Bethto Elbut vicealso president. grow and develop,” said Marcy obvious intellect, with “She can help develop our religrow and develop,” said Marcy Sandler, Beth El vice president. sincere passion to help Beth El to gious school, besaid sure, but Sandler, Beth Eltovice president. grow and develop,” “She can help develop ourMarcy reli-she cancan also assist with confirmation, “She help develop our reliSandler, Beth El vice president. gious school, to be sure, but she adult education, music programgious school, to be sure, but she “She can help develop our relican also assist with confirmation, ming and more. Her experience can also assist with confirmation, gious school, to be sure, but she adult education, musicofprogramas an administrator a Jewish adult education, music programcanday also assistwill with confirmation, school make for a smooth ming and more. Her experience ming and more. Her experience adult education, music programtransition as she moves into the as an administrator of asming an administrator ofaexperience aJewish Jewish and more. Her role of education director. As an dayday school will make for a as added an administrator offor a share Jewish school will make asmooth smooth bonus, she will her transition she moves into the daygift school will make for a smooth transition as she moves into the ofas song as our cantorial soloBy DuBow Preschool rolerole ofist.” education As an transition as shedirector. moves into of education director. Asthe an rolebonus, ofChase’s education director. As an added she will share her added bonus, she will share her experience spans Are you looking forshare a fun added bonus, she will her and Conservative congreof song asour our cantorial sologiftgift ofReform song as cantorial sologroup to andsoloplay iscantorial a member of giftgations, of socialize, songand as she ourlearn ist.” ist.” several professional organizations with? Shalom Baby is spans the place ist.” Chase’s experience spans Chase’s experience including the National Association Chase’s experience spans to meet new friends, learn new Reform and Conservative congreReform and Conservative congreofand Temple Educators. Reform and she Conservative congregations, and is a member of songs stories, talk about child gations, and is you, a member of “Asand Ishe teach I will learn gations, she is aorganizations member of several professional development, and celebrate Shabseveral professional organizations from you and, together, we will several professional organizations including the National Association bat and other holidays. grow,” said. “The congregation including theshe National Association including the National Association of Temple Educators. This is aEducators. free playgroup open is very warm. It feels like home.” of Temple of “As Temple Educators. I teach you,her I will learn Chase began duties as eduto all in the Jewish community. I teach you,I will I will learn “As“As Iyou teach learn and,you, together, we will Wefrom have children ranging in age from you and, together, we will from you and, together, we will grow,” she said. “The congregation from newborns through 2 year grow,” she said. “The congregation grow,” she said. “The congregation is very warm. It feels like home.” is Chase very warm. Ither feels likehome.” home.” is very warm. It feels like began duties as eduChase began her duties eduChase began her duties asasedu-

doubles as cantorial soloist doubles as cantorial soloist

Parent Jennie DeBardeleben remarked, “It’s wonderful for the children to learn about and support such an amazing organization that’s based right here at home. It’s a special day for everyone.”

is t Well

Recr isclu th

Tues. club

Nigh Tue Re

Wed., Tue

Beth El’s new education director,

Calling all toddlers, babies and their loved cation director and cantorial soloist on Aug. 4. “The hiring of Naomius Chase ones: Come play with represents a turning point in the

NaomiEl’s Chase, Beth Eldirector, in Beth newvisited education Calli Nig We Beth El’sChase, new education director, late July as a cantorial soloist. Naomi visited Beth El in Please Wed Naomi Chase, visited Beth El in Beth El’s new education director, “Jaco Ca late as aand cantorial cationJuly director cantorial soloist. soloist

late JulyChase, as a cantorial soloist. Naomi visited Beth El in Bids” Ple Ca on Aug. 4. Jeann late“The Julyhiring as a cantorial soloist. “Ja Plea of Naomi Chase cation director and cantorial soloist Tues. represents a turning point in the Bid “Jac on Aug. 4. cation director and cantorial soloist life of our congregation. Adding a Bids Jea “The 4. hiring of Naomi Chase on Aug. full-time professional position for Jean Tue “The hiring of Naomi represents a turning pointChase in the education director/cantorial soloist Tue life of our congregation. Adding a represents a turning point in the life of our congregation. Adding a indicates thatmonth Beth Elwe is alive and olds. Last celebrated full-time professional position life of our congregation. Adding a for full-time professional for growing and that we areposition respond Purim together and participated full-time for education director/cantorial soloistin education director/cantorial soloist ing to theprofessional needs of our position growing  a costume parade. It was a blast. education director/cantorial soloist community,” said Judy Poppell, indicates that Beth ElElis alive andand  indicates that Beth is alive We invite allthat totrustees’ join us in the Beth El board of presiindicates that Beth El isare alive and  growing and we respondgrowing and that weare respond  dent. growing and thatof we are respondcoming months. ing to needs ing tothe the needs ofour ourgrowing growing     Beth religious ing to theEl’s needs of ourschool growing Upcoming play dates at the     community,” said Judy Poppell, community,” said Judy Poppell, enrollment doubled last year, community,” said Judy Poppell, Beth El board of trustees’ presiDuBow Preschool: March 13,     Beth El boardofof trustees’ presiand itEl celebrated its first graduatBeth board trustees’ president. March 27 (Passover fun), May 1   dent. ing classes of confirmation and   dent. Beth El’s religious school (Mother’s Day celebration), consecration students. For more May    BethEl’s El’s religious school Beth religious school enrollment doubled last year, information on registration, visit a.m.    29 (water doubled play day) atyear, 11:15 enrollment doubled last year, enrollment last and it dates celebrated itsBartram first graduatwww.BethelBeaches.org. Play at the Trail     and ititcelebrated itsits first graduatandclasses celebrated first graduat   ing of confirmation and Branch Library: April 16 and ing classes ofof confirmation ing classes confirmation andMay   consecration students. For and more   14 at 11:15 a.m. consecration students. For more   consecration students. For more information on registration, visit information visitvisit    informationononregistration, registration, www.BethelBeaches.org.  www.BethelBeaches.org.  www.BethelBeaches.org.

The Athens Cafe family www.BethelBeaches.org. wants to wish our customers: The Athens Cafe family family Theall Athens Cafe

The Athens Cafe family wants wish wants to to wish wants to wish all our customers: all ourNew customers: Happy Year! all our customers:

HappyNew Passover! Happy Year! Serving Lunch Mon.-Fri. & Dinner Mon.-Sat. Family Owned

Happy New Year! The Dupont Station

Serving Dinner Mon.-Sat. Mon.-Sat. Serving Lunch Lunch Mon.-Fri. & Dinner 6271 St. Augustine Road, Family Owned

Suite 7 Serving Lunch Mon.-Fri. & Dinner Mon.-Sat. Jacksonville, FL 32217 Family Owned The The Dupont DupontStation Station 904.733.1199 Fax 733.1269

6271 Augustine 6271 St. AugustineRoad, Road, TheSt.Dupont Station Suite Suite77 Jacksonville, Jacksonville,FL FL32217 32217

6271 St. Augustine Road,

904.733.1199 904.733.1199 Suite 7 15% off Dinner with this Fax coupon. Fax 733.1269 733.1269

Jacksonville, FL 32217

Not valid with any other coupons. 904.733.1199

Fax 733.1269

Creeks Realty Group, LLC--12627 San Jose Blvd., Suite 504 Jacksonville, FL 32223

Well onk The is the We one clubs.

 

 

  

   

03/01/15 (WEEK 09) - WD - JACKSONVILLE JEWISH NEWS - 10.25 X 16

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

page 11

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Wishing you and your family A H A P PY A N D H E A LT H Y PASSOVER

Deborah & Ita

- Passover 20

10 ssover 20 Eidel - Pa

The Shapiro Family - Pa ssover 2015

Passover 2015 Hilde & Yosef -

Hilde & Yosef Passover 2010

Eidel & Ha rriet - Pass over 2015

399

669

Joy of Kosher

KEDEM GRAPE JUICE

We have partnered with Jamie Geller, “Queen of Kosher,” again to bring you 20 new Passover recipes sure to please your family.

64 oz.

5 lb. regular or whole wheat

With card

HOLY LAND SHMURA MATZO

VICTOR WINE OR ZION MOSCATO

1599

699

1 lb.

750 ml.

With card

Save up to $13.49 on 2 with card

FOR

Raspberry, apricot, chocolate or praline nut • In the bakery

With card

FOR

Locations below carry fresh kosher meat and dairy items:

11701-10 San Jose Blvd. in Jacksonville (904) 886-1976 1520 W. University Blvd. in Jacksonville (904) 448-5400

With card

8 oz.

With card

STREIT’S MATZO

With card

Save up to $4.49 on 2 with card

$ 79

lb.

LAY’S PASSOVER POTATO CHIPS

FOR

12 oz. egg or whole wheat

259

J&J CREAM CHEESE

10 oz.

COMPLIMENTAR

With card

FOR

With card

6 oz. In the dairy department

64 oz.

ALLE FIRST CUT BRISKET

COMPLIMENTAR

50 oz.

MANISCHEWITZ MACAROONS

1159

GOLD’S HORSERADISH

KEDEM APPLE JUICE

399

FOR

PRIGAT JUICE

JELLY ROLLS

Passover Haggadahs and coupon booklets available in select stores.

YEHUDA MATZO

Complimentary

SCHTARK SHREDDED CHEESE 8 oz.

With card

459

TNUVA EMEK SLICED CHEESE

399

YEHUDA GEFILTE FISH

6 oz.

7 oz.

24 oz.

With card

1099

FOR

GLICK’S KETCHUP

NESCAFÉ TASTER’S CHOICE

NER MITZVAH MEMORIAL CANDLE

OSEM CONSOMME MIX

24 oz.

7 oz. instant coffee

1 count

14.1 oz.

With card

PASSOVER MEALS MADE EASY

Passover meals available at select stores. Please visit winndixie.com/Passover for locations and recipe ideas.

9999

14999

13999

ROASTED CHICKEN DINNER: 4, Half Apricot Roasted Chickens

BRISKET DINNER: 4 lbs. Fully Cooked Brisket Style Beef

CORNED BEEF DINNER: 4 lbs. Sliced Glazed Corned Beef

Serves 8-10

ALL DINNERS ALSO INCLUDE: • 2 lbs. gefilte fish - homestyle with carrots or 24 oz. chopped chicken liver • 2 qts. matzo ball soup (2 qts. chicken broth & 8 matzo balls), 2 qts. vegetable soup or 2 qts. tomato soup • (1) tray apple strudel and (1) tray chocolate brownies

CHOICE OF (2) TWO FAMILY SIZE SIDES: • Spinach, potato, zucchini, cauliflower or sweet matzo kugel • Carrot Tzimmes • Matzo farfel Meals and a la carte items prepared by Webermans Traditional Foods - Glatt Kosher for Passover

page 12

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/JaxJewish

EDUCATION

MJGDS Middle schoolers work as software engineers By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School

Building on the success of last year’s Whack-A-Haman game, seventh graders at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School are again collaborating with Jewish Interactive, a software development company based in Israel and South Africa, to create an interactive app that will be available on iTunes. In this year’s game, called Race To The Red Sea, players must escape from ancient Egypt by surviving various obstacles, such as lice, hail, and locusts. Describing the game as similar to Temple Run 2 or Subway Surfer, student Rebecca B. describes the game as “educational but really fun at the same time.

It’s by kids for kids, so that is pretty awesome.” As part of the project, the students have Skyped with software developers in both South Africa and Israel, and are learning many real-world skills. “They are obviously learning about the holiday of Passover in a fun way. What has been amazing is watching the kids work in teams on project management, marketing, game development, art design and audio engineering. These are skills they’ll take with them beyond middle school,” says teacher Shana Gutterman. Race To The Red Sea will be available on iTunes the week before Passover begins.

Michele Block Gan Yeladim offers youth yoga By MOLLY SWEET

Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool

Recent studies have shown that students exposed to yoga tend to be less reactive and more optimistic. They have better focus, concentration and interactions with peers. Yoga and other contemplative activities can help children learn to regulate their emotions and behaviors in a healthy way. Research by Dr. Sat Bir Khalsa of Harvard Medical School shows that long-term yoga and meditation practice changes the part of the brain that regulates resilience to stress and emotional reactivity.

Thanks to the help of esteemed JCA yoga instructor Gisela Morgan, Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool offers yoga in many capacities for JCA families. Gisela has been with the JCA for several years as a certified yoga, Pilates and Pilates reformer instructor. A graduate of the Laban Centre of Movement and Dance in London, Gisela established herself in the world of contemporary dance in London before coming to Jacksonville. She now teaches yoga and Pilates to people of all ages and fitness levels, from mothers-to-be and children to senior citizens.

Michele Block Gan Yeladim Kindergarten class participates in a yoga practice with Gisela once a month throughout the year as part of their physical education. For children ages 3 to 6, Adventure Yoga incorporates animal and nature poses in a fun setting, where students improve flexibility, balance, coordination, concentration and self-esteem. Young Yoga offers a similar format for children ages 6 to 9. Having a baby? This spring Gisela will lead a new prenatal yoga class for moms to be. Call 904-730-2100, ext. 259, for more information. Namaste!



  Olympian Training World Class Coaches National Championship Teams Call Today for a Trial Class 

 

Passover Take-Out 2015 – 5775

Sharing Passover with Jacksonville for over 15 years. Thank you for your continued support. Let the tradition continue.

Herb Crusted Chicken with a Mushroom Marsala $11 Roasted Brisket with a Sweet Wine Sauce $12 Quinoa Stuffed Portabella with a Pesto Drizzle $10 Traditional Herb Baked Chicken (2pc) $9 Grilled Salmon with a Golden Raisin Chutney $12 Matzo Kugels $4~ Tzimmes $4~ Squash Souffle $4 Matzo Ball Soup $3 ~ Chopped Liver $10 lb Charosets $7 lb ~ Chocolate Torte $25 We will be taking Passover Take-Out Orders Until March 27

10% Discount on all $100 orders

904-268-4200, Ext. 142 margoscatering@aol.com



Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

page 13

www.jewishjacksonville.org

SYNAGOGUE NEWS

Temple travelers discover colonial Jewry in Savannah By ANDREW OCEAN

Congregation Ahavath Chesed

Fourteen members of the Jacksonville Jewish community joined Rabbi Joshua Lief, Temple’s senior rabbi, for a three-day tour of Savannah and a study of its colonial Jewish history. The second annual tour group enjoyed the 1997 movie, “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” filmed on location in Savannah, on the ride north before arriving at the Jewish burial grounds of the De Lyon – De La Motta Cemetery and the Mordecai Sheftall Cemetery, dedicated in 1773. “It’s an awe inspiring place,” said Liz Figura, “to think that beginning in 1733 Jews have played a substantial role in growing the Georgia colony and later helping to create our country.” The burial grounds are also a historic Revolutionary

War battlefield, a rally point for colonials during the Battle for Savannah in 1779. After a brief tour of Congregation Mickve Israel, constructed in 1878, we celebrated Shabbat

with the congregation. In 1790 Georgia granted the congregation a charter, thereby confirming the legal status of the third oldest Jewish congregation in the United States. Jews have been prominent

in all aspects of the commercial, cultural and political life of the community. Today, Mickve Israel continues to be an active spiritual community, affiliated with the reform movement. The evening ended with Shabbat dinner at the world renowned Garibaldi’s Restaurant followed by a horse-drawn carriage ride through the old city. The chilly weather did not detract from the tour guide’s sense of humor or the group’s appreciation for the architecture and the stories told about almost every building. Shabbat morning we returned to Mickve Israel, following a brief stop at the Forsyth Park Farmer’s Market. Shabbat afternoon included a tour of Colonial Park, where some of America’s famous founders are buried and a Shabbat nap. Since no trip to Savannah would be complete without a visit to the

famous Leopold’s Ice Cream shop on East Broughton Street, the group celebrated havdallah and an ice cream treat. On Sunday morning, we retraced the humiliating march of the colonial period’s newly arrived slaves from the Custom House through the City Market. As we walked silently through the city streets, we reflected on the Jews who participated in the slave trade and whose descendants later marched, praying with their feet, during the civil right movement of the 1960s. The Jepson Center of the Telfair Museum was our final stop. Designed by Moshe Safdie, it stands in modern contrast to the historic dwellings in its neighborhood. “It was a wonderful trip,” declared Joan Palmer, “I can hardly wait to do it again next year!”

Exploring the history of colonial Jewry in Savannah, Georgia By ANDREW OCEAN

Congregation Ahavath Chesed

On July 11, 1733, 42 Jews from London arrived in the new colony of Georgia anticipating freedom of worship and hoping for prosperity. Their first communal act, after landing in Savannah, was the initiation of divine services. More than a minyan was immediately available, and the settlers brought a Torah scroll dating from 1454 to their new home. In 1732 approximately 6,000 Jews were living in London. The more affluent and established Jews provided generous financial support by subscribing to Oglethorpe’s new colony of Georgia. Members of the Spanish and Portuguese Bevis Marks Synagogue were among the subscribers and became the founding families of Congregation Mickve

Israel in Savannah. Savannah’s Jewish community followed a sequence different from the two older Jewish communities in New York (1654) and Newport (1695), and markedly different from the newer colonial Jewish settlements in Philadelphia (1739) and Charleston (1749). The Savannah settlers first founded a congregation, then a cemetery, followed by a mikvah on April 2, 1738. The other colonial communities first established a cemetery, followed by the mikvah, and ultimately founded their congregation. Mordecai Sheftall was a prominent merchant and leading Jewish citizen of Savannah. Born in 1735, Mordecai married Charleston-born Frances Hart in 1761. He became a founding subscriber to Congregation Mickve Israel in Savannah and provided

Let’s discuss your financial future

904.273.9850 We have found that most people who go to a “financial advisor” ultimately find out that they are really just dealing with a financial salesman. Their assets are invested in different mutual funds or annuities that have internal fees that are difficult to understand.

We do things differently... We do not sell financial products like mutual funds or annuities

Nor do we earn any commissions

We are fee only money managers, who invest your assets in individual stocks and bonds Our Portfolio Services Include: • Asset Management • Retirement Planning • 401(k) Rollovers

Jan Butensky, Founder

• IRA, 401(k) and 403(b) Management

Allan Cohen, Founder

Pershing LLC (a subsidiary of Bank of New York Mellon Corporation) is our third party custodian and is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC®).

www.ButenskyCohen.com • info@ButenskyCohen.com 110 PROFESSIONAL DRIVE STE 101 • PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL 32082

the community with land for its first Jewish cemetery. Sheftall was the Jewish representative among the original five incorporators of the Union Society, a non-denominational philanthropic association formed by Savannah’s religious organizations to assist widows and poor children. Sheftall joined the Continental army when war broke out and was appointed commissary general of purchases and issues to the Georgia militia in 1777. In this position, he was responsible for supplying the colony’s soldiers with food, clothing and materiel and often spent his own money to

purchase supplies for the volunteers. He was imprisoned by the British in 1778 with his 15-yearold son, Sheftall Sheftall. Refusing to provide information about the American’s sources of supplies, or to renounce the patriot cause, father and son were transferred to the prison ship Nancy. After several months, Sheftall and later his son were paroled Sunbury, Ga., under close British surveillance. The Sheftalls managed to flee from Sudbury on an American brig bound for Charleston, S.C., but were again captured by the British and sent

to Antigua, where they remained prisoners until the spring of 1780. Once freed, they headed for Philadelphia. In Philadelphia, despite his own financial hardships, Mordecai helped fund a new synagogue for Congregation Mickve Israel. When the war ended in 1783, Mordecai returned with his wife and children to Savannah. Georgia granted him several hundred acres of land in recognition of his sacrifices on behalf of independence. He died in 1797 at age 62 and was buried in Savannah with full honors in the Jewish cemetery he created.

page 14

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/JaxJewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

SYNAGOGUE NEWS

Students take action against human trafficking By JONAH BENNETT and the 8th grade TIR Class Congregation Ahavath Chesed

Our world is not perfect. In our Sunday school class with Rabbi Cohen, we learn about tikkun olam. Our effort to repair the world is to take a stand against human trafficking. Human trafficking is the buying and selling of human beings. In the United States, Florida ranks third in the number of people that are trafficked, and Jacksonville is the third highest in Florida. When our class learned that the most targeted group for human traffickers includes kids our age or younger, we decided it

was our obligation to take action. I cannot imagine what it is like to be a victim of human trafficking, and I don’t want anyone in our community or elsewhere to fall victim to this heinous crime. Our class is supporting Rethreaded, an organization based in Jacksonville that breaks the sex trade by assisting individuals who have been trafficked. We are collecting T-shirts and donating them to Rethreaded. Survivors of human trafficking will use these T-shirts to make scarves, headbands and other products that are sold to the community. We donated hundreds of Tshirts to Rethreaded at the Let Our People Go human trafficking educational program at the

Etz Chaim partners with JFCS’s FANN By Etz Chaim Synagogue

Hunger knows no bounds. Nationally, 1 in 4 children don’t know from where their next meal will come. Locally, 1 in 6 Northeast Florida families are faced with food insecurity. The fastestgrowing cohort in this group is the working poor, struggling day in and day out just to make ends meet, often forced to choose between paying for food and paying for medicine or utilities. This year, we have teamed up with Jewish Family & Community Services to spearhead a congregation-wide food drive for the Feed A Needy Neighbor program. Established in 1987 by concerned citizens in the local Jewish community, FANN reaches out to those who need it most. Through their onsite Emergency Food Pantry, JFCS provides nutritious nonperishable food items to over 8,600 individuals each year, which equates to over 77,000 meals. As a shul with compassion for people of need, it is our time to come together and open our hearts, hands and pantries to those not as fortunate. Donations should be nonperishable grocery item such as: meals in a can, canned veggies, canned tuna, dry beans, canned meats/ poultry, macaroni and cheese, rice, pasta (bagged preferred), canned soup, evaporated milk, peanut butter, jelly, oatmeal, nonfat dry milk, canned fruits and baby food. Please make sure that food is unopened and has not expired. For further information, contact Yosef Meyer at 904-535-2317.

Temple in February. We plan to continue our effort and donate even more shirts to the organization at the end of the school year. Now, as Madrichim, assisting TIR teachers with young children, we also want to

help educate them and ensure that they are safe and protected from human trafficking. We encourage all of you to join our effort and, together, just as Rethreaded sews a new garment out of old T-shirts, we can

sew a new story of peace and just treatment for all. Collection boxes for the T-shirts are in the lobby of the Temple. Please donate 100 percent cotton T-shirts with no side seams and minimal graphics.

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

page 15

www.jewishjacksonville.org

SYNAGOGUE NEWS

Beth El puts on the Ritz

Center Shabbaton set for March 6-8 By Jacksonville Jewish Center

The community is invited to participate in the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s annual Marilyn and Louis Safer Shabbaton. This year, the scholar-in-residence will be Judy Klitsner, senior lecturer at the Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies. Judy weaves together traditional and modern scholarship with her original interpretations of biblical text. Her style is described as lively, interactive and text-based, and she is particularly fond of uncovering the vibrant conver-

By Beth El The Beaches Synagogue

sation that takes place between the Bible’s parallel stories. Registration for meals are now closed, but all are welcome to join us for her presentations on Friday evening (When Bad Things Happen to Good Biblical Characters); Shabbat morning (Did Jonah and Noah Share the Same Boat?) and Saturday afternoon (The Tent, the Field, and the Battlefield: Upheavals in the Roles and Fortunes of Biblical Women). For times and details, please visit www.jaxjewishcenter.com or call Lois Tompkins at 904-268-4200, ext. 146.

Beth El guest mixer includes book review By Beth El The Beaches Synagogue

Join us for Beth El’s next Member and Guest Mixer on Sunday, March 8, at 5 p.m. We will review the book “A Jewish Girl & a Not-So-Jewish Boy” by Sandra Armstrong. This nonfiction story of the author’s life growing up as a Jewish girl and the twists and turns after marrying a non-Jewish boy is relatable to anyone who has lived this scenario. Find out how Sandra and her husband make it work and about the variety of

Jewish rituals and experiences they navigate together. The discussion will be led by our own Marla Dahlenburg and a limited number of books signed by the author will be available for purchase at the end of the evening. A little nosh, a little wine, a little discussion and a lot of fun – that’s what these Member and Guest Mixers are all about. We hope to see you there. For more information, please contact Gail Greenfield at 904-534-7381 or gailsgreenfield@hotmail.com.

They came as flappers, gangstas, glitzy, glamorous gals in gowns and chic cocktail attire, men decked-out in tuxes. The energy was electric, the music swinging, our glasses clinking among feathers galore. It was the bees knees. And why not? Beth El The Beaches Synagogue was putting on the Ritz. We’ve worked hard to maintain a Jewish presence and home at the beach. It’s difficult to imagine that the synagogue just celebrated its 25th anniversary. There were many visionaries who saw a need for our community to have a spiritual temple to call our own. Here is the list of our early founding members and leaders: Alan Solomon, Dr. Scott Ackerman, Jeff Korn, Alyssa Korn, Dr. Alan Honig, Claire Stoopeck, Dr. Ron Kirsner, Stuart Williams, Stuart Beckerman, Loretta Cornelius, Dr. Karen Toker, Steven Boyne, Judy Poppell, Marty Siegal, Priscilla Fadale, and Neal Goldman as Presidents. Some of our additional founding members include: Carole Solomon, Alex Ackerman, Vickie Kennedy, Miriam Schneck, Mort and Sybil Golde, Michael Schwartz, Rachel MarcusMitchell, Joy Shultz, Eileen Krimsky and John Moreland, Michael and Ellen Matza, Len and Judy Elikan, Michael Koren, Elana Schrader, Steven and Betsy Siegel, Buzzy and Paula Klausner, Judy and Len Elikan, Stuart and Estelle Beckerman, Sherry and Jerry Chait, M.G. and Donna Orender and many more. We were a grass roots movement that became a reality. We wish to thank our incredible Ritz committee for all their hard work, creativity, putting up with us, determination, humor and wit. You truly have made this a successful event. They are: Molly Kushner, Tammy Shumer, Karen Freedman, Abby Steele, Vickie Kennedy, Rita Goldman, Joanne Jogodinski, Marla Dalhenberg, Genia Aquilar, Laurie Berger, Lisa Udell, Marion Cohn-Spitzer, Terry Schare and Stacey Jewesak. Our spiritual guidance and board leadership enabled us to fly high and attain our goals. Thanks to Neal Goldman, president, and our rabbi, Michael Matuson, without whom we would be lost in the

desert. Also we wish to thank our community, congregants and many, many gracious and generous businesses in support of our auction and event. Special thanks to our Ritz sponsors: Magnate- The Orender family; Mogul- Stephen and Rita Goldman, Glen and Lisa Ullmann and Randy and Jen Levinson, David and Vickie Zuckerman-Easy Edit Video; BaronBobby and David Adler, Sherry and Jerry Chait, Michael and Karen Freedman, Charlie and Sharon Frohman, Neal and Sharon Goldman, David and Julie Marco, John and Rachel Mitchell, Joy Shultz, Mike and Tammy Shumer, Michael and Abby Steele, Pete and Cathy Winterfield, Betsy and Steve Siegel; Donors- Michael and Stephanie Cills, Marcia and Danny Cohen, Donald and Colleen George, Nancy Honig, Randy Kammer and Jeff Wollitz, Buzzy and Paula Klausner, Larry and Sheila Lieberman, Steven Ritter, Debbie Thornblum, Cyril and Karen Toker.

SPRING SAVINGS EVENT RECEIVE

40% OFF

ONE REGULAR-PRICED ITEM* BEGINNING MONDAY, MARCH 2, 2015 THROUGH SUNDAY, APRIL 5, 2015 ST JOHN OUTLET 490 OUTLET MALL BLVD. SPACE 1085 ST. AUGUSTINE, FL 32084 (904) 824-4646

page 16

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/JaxJewish

SYNAGOGUE NEWS

Discovery Seminar attracts about 150 Jews to Etz Chaim

Rabbi Spitzer Memorial Women’s Seder planned

By DR. GENE WOLCHOK

By Temple Sisterhood

On Feb. 8 at Etz Chaim Synagogue, I attended the Discovery Seminar presented by Rabbi Yaakov Solomon, a psychotherapist from Brooklyn, N.Y. A diverse group of 150 Jews were in attendance. The topic of the seminar was Who Wrote the Torah? Prior to attending the seminar, I would have said it was 80 percent likely that man had written it and 20 percent likely that G-d had written it. He delivered a most compelling argument making the case that G-d had written the Torah. A central theme that reflected this idea were the uncanny statements from the Torah that were proven true with stunning accuracy. This included the verse in the Torah about Jewish people being an eternal nation. Solomon methodically presented factual information about the Jewish people. Judaism was the first religion to proclaim monotheism. Yet the Jewish people survived tremendous resistance with centuries of persecutions, pogroms and the Holocaust. The Jews were also witness to

the rise and fall of the great superpowers and their cultures. Despite our resiliency, we remain few in number. There are roughly 6 billion people on earth and Jews represent onetenth of one percent of the global population. The qualitative impact of the Jewish people is far greater. For example, they have received about 25 percent of Nobel prizes. Three of the four greatest scholars of the 20th century (Einstein, Freud, Marx) were Jews.

Another central theme was the uniqueness of the origins of Judaism. It was a national and collective experience and not just transmitted to one individual when nearly 3 million Jews gathered at Mt. Sinai to hear the divine revelation. As I left the seminar I reflected that based on all the compelling information, I believe that the 80-20 odds of the authorship of the Torah have been reversed. But I am still learning.

Jacksonville Jewish Center to hold Minyannaires Shabbat on March 14

By Jacksonville Jewish Center

On March 14, the Jacksonville Jewish Center will celebrate Minyannaires Shabbat, in which we will pay tribute to our longstanding congregational minyan and to our members that attend, lead services and create the community that makes our minyan so special. Will we also honor our first Minyannaire of the Year Marco Rand. Marco is a long-standing member of the Center, a former religious committee chair and current minyan captain. Marco is a shining example of the best our

minyan has to offer. Our members that attend minyan are special. They give of themselves to ensure that there is always a place for someone to say kaddish, whether in the chapel or during a simultaneous minyan in a house of mourning. They embrace their minyan community and are proud of the individual service that they attend. And the best part is, there is always room for more. Weekday minyan can be the service that is most comfortable for one that wants to attend services, but may not find what they are looking for on Shab-

bat morning. There will always be an open door for those who want to try one of our 21 weekly services. During Minyannaires Shabbat we recognize our minyan participants. Some will lead parts of the service, while others will share their experiences as a minyan regular. Services begin at 9 a.m. The Jacksonville Jewish Center holds services daily for Shacharit in the morning and Mincha/Maariv in the evening every day of the year. For minyan times, please go to jaxjewishcenter.com.

Shalom Jacksonville presents

Jewish Java Jokefest Wed. March 4 from 9-10:30 a.m. Village Bread Cafe, 10111 San Jose Blvd Get into the Purim Spirit and share a joke or funny experience with friends and newcomers. Hamantashen for all. RSVP Isabel Balotin, 904-448-5000x206 or

shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org Please remember the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and the Jewish community in your will and estate plans.

Temple Sisterhood invites the entire community to the 22nd Annual Rabbi Julie R. Spitzer Memorial Seder. Spitzer was a pioneer in her day who refused to allow the Jewish community to ignore that domestic violence happened in nice Jewish families, too. Her passion saved lives. She empowered Jewish women to cast aside their shame, recognize they were victims, and realize they deserved a safe environment for themselves and their children. In honor of Spitzer, the proceeds of the Women’s Seder will benefit Hubbard House, Jacksonville’s comprehensive domestic violence shelter established in 1975. Since its inception, the Women’s Seder has raised $62,000 for Hubbard House. This year’s Seder will be held Thursday, March 26, at Temple beginning at 6:30 p.m. In the spirit of L’dor Va’dor, grandmoth-

ers, mothers and daughters from the Jewish community and from the non-Jewish community are encouraged to attend. The new vegetarian menu will be a culinary delight. Shana Boer, who has served on the TIR faculty for many years, is co-chairing the event this year. “I am so excited to share with my sisters much of what I have been teaching our students. The Seder experience reminds us of the chains of slavery and their devastating effect on the individual. It also reminds us of our responsibilities to others now that we are free. It is incumbent upon us all to unchain those still enslaved by domestic violence, poverty, no access to education and work skills, all those who have been denied human decency. No one is truly free until all of us are free.” Call the Temple office at 904-7337078 to make your reservation. Your check is your confirmed reservation.

Jacksonville Symphony comes to Temple By Congregation Ahavath Chesed

Cover the Town with Sound concert series stops at Temple on Sunday, March 1, at 3 p.m. The entire community is welcome to attend this free concert featuring the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra’s brass quintet. “This one-hour concert can be an introduction to classical music for the younger members of the community,” explains Tony Kamnikar, vice president of education for Jacksonville Symphony.

“Each light classical favorite will be introduced, and everyone is encouraged to participate in the question and answer segment at the close of the concert. For our JSO subscribers and donors, this is a more intimate musical experience than you enjoy downtown.” The brass quintet includes Julian Kaplan and Brian Osborne on the trumpet, Debra Fialek on the French horn, Jeff Peterson on the trombone and James Jenkins on the tuba.

Congregational Passover Seder set for April 3 at the Temple By Congregation Ahavath Chesed

Make plans now to join the Temple family for a Passover Seder on Friday, April 3, at 6 p.m. “There is a seat at Temple’s table for everyone to experience the story of freedom and redemption. No one should be alone as Passover begins,” explains Rabbi

Lief. “We left Egypt, everyone together, man and woman, child and beast. Together as a community, we re-tell the story so our children will understand and so we are reminded of our responsibilities as a free people.” Call the Temple office at 904733-7078 to reserve your space at our table. Everyone is welcome.

Sisterhood goes on retreat By Temple SIsterhood

WRJ Temple Sisterhood’s ever popular annual retreat weekend is right down the road. All women are welcome to come together at Marywood Retreat Center for the

weekend of April 24-26. There will be inspiration, study, prayer, social actions projects, friendship, food and fun – we promise. For more information, contact Marcia Grado at 904-521-4301.

Monthly dinner with Rabbi Matuson set for March 5 By Beth El The Beaches Synagogue

On Thursday, March 5, at 6:30 p.m., join the Beth El Brotherhood and Sisterhood as they host a lively dinner and discussion with Rabbi Michael Matuson.

Feast on pastrami, corned beef and potato knishes flown in straight from Katz’s Deli in New York and join in the conversation with the rabbi. To RSVP please call Marla Dahlenberg at 904273-9100.

Jacksonville Jewish News â&#x20AC;˘ March 2015

www.jewishjacksonville.org

FEDERATION NEWS

JEWISH

FEDERATION

OF JACKSONVILLE

We proudly thank everyone who helped make Super and Thank You Sunday a success Our sponsor:

Our Super and Thank You Sunday volunteers: Irene Attali Shylie Bannon Ilene Bomser Nancy Davis Moti Demri Sandra Duggan Len Elikan Laura Evans Devora Feigenbaum Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum Rachelli Fisch Tammy Fisch Yehoshua Fisch Henny Fisch Rabbi Fisch Gail Furman Nicola Garner Kim Glasgal Cindy Handmaker Andrea Hernandez Jon Hill

Leora Holzer Ken Jacobs Andrew Jaffa Eliana Jaffa Maiah Jaffa Erica Jolles Maureen Klein Jeff Klein Cindy Land Michael Lewis Judy Lewis Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner Andrea Mail Stephanie Majesky Ben Marsh Daniel Miller Mauri Mizrahi Robin Morris Alyse Nathans Arin Nathans Mike Nussbaum

Michelle Pargman Jennifer Plotkin Kevin Rogers Colleen Rodriguez Rabbi Jim Rogozen Aliza Rosenbaum Emily Rosenbaum Elliott Rosenbaum Hilary Rotenberg Arthur Rosenthal Rabbi Avi Schochet Stephanie Seebol Andrea Seebol-Smithers Nicole Sena Brown Mark Shainbrown Emily Teitelbaum Liat Walker Lori Wayne Rachel Weinstein Sandy Zimmerman

Special thanks to: Myron Flagler and the staff at the Jewish Community Alliance for hosting this event Theresa Levy and the staff at Gan Yeladim for helping us with babysitting services Photographer Larry Tallis Please remember the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and the Jewish community in your will and estate plans.

page 17

page 18

JCA offers wickedly fun theatre camp By IMAN BYFIELD

JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE

JCA fundraiser is a success thanks to community support

scale show. This year’s shows

By Jewish Community Alliance

Fun Summer.” Last year the camp staged the beach-themed, “Teen Beach Movie” and Grease-esque “Welcome to the 60s.” Registration for the JCA’s 2015 Summer Camp session is now open. For more information on Stage Door Theatre Camp and other JCA Summer Camp programs, or to register, visit jcajax.org/camp or call 904730-2100, ext. 252. Register by March 13 and receive a special gift.

The JCA’s annual fundraising event, held on Saturday, Feb. 28, was a huge success thanks to the tireless efforts of chairs Pat and Ben Frisch and Mary and Jeff Edwards, who worked alongside the ever-devoted planning committee. Our fabulous committee included Alexandra Ackerman, Suzette Allen, Caren Appel, Sharon Bloom, Lauren Edwards, Sue Elinoff, Lauren Feiner, Adam Frisch, Sierra Frisch, Allison Jacobs, Glenn Miller, Monique Miller, Debbie Parker, Nancy Perlman, Kim Robbins, Jeanine Rogozinski, Ellen Rosner, Diane Rothstein, Ryan Saltz, Fran Selevan, Rebekah Selevan, Allison Korman Shelton, Blair Sherman, Kendall Sisisky, Kimberly Sisisky, Randee Steinberg, Linda Stein, Alison Trager, Stacie Wilf and Chase Zimmerman. This event would not have been possible without the generosity of our sponsors: Alexandra & Scot Ackerman, Suzette & Michel Allen, Jordan Ansbacher, Baptist Health, Block Family, Sharon & Malcolm Bloom, Deborah & Lathun Brigman, Harriet & Ernie Brodsky, LaVerne & Andrew Cantor, Capital Analysts of Jacksonville, Michael DeSanto/ Barnett Chepenik Insurance, DuBow Family, Sue & Fred Eaglstein, Cindy & Dan Edelman, Mary & Jeff Edwards, Sue & Ron Elinoff, Flagler Family, Florida Blue, Frisch Family, Meredith & Mark Frisch, Debbie & Mel Gottlieb, Ken Jacobs /Gray-Robinson, P.A., Nancy & Mark Green, Irene & James Jaffa, Jaffe/Zimmerman Families, Tracy & Jacques Klempf, Korman & Shelton Families,

Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool are “Epic 80s” and “’Wickedly’

The Jewish Community Alliance’s Summer Camp has a variety of programs allowing campers to explore their interests, and experience new and exciting activities. The Stage Door Theatre Camp gives campers interested in the performing arts the unique experience of working with theatre professionals. Led by the JCA’s Theatre of Youth Director Shelly Higgins Hughes, Stage Door Theatre Camp has become Jacksonville’s most popular creative arts program. Students learn to express themselves through song, dance, acting games, and arts and crafts. In addition to training in musical theatre-style and aerobic-style dance in the Fit for Broadway class, campers are also given daily free swim and special event activities. The program meets for two four-week sessions: June 15 to July 10 and July 13 to August 7, with varying time options for registration. At the end of each session, participants stage a full

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/JaxJewish

JCA 2015 Fundraiser Committee, from left, bottom row: Sharon Bloom, Kimberly Sisisky, Linda Stein, Lior Spring, Alexandra Ackerman, Nancy Green. Top row: Ryan Saltz, Adam Frisch, Sierra Frisch, Pat Frisch, Mary Edwards, Allison Jacobs, Monique Miller. Not pictured: Suzette Allen, Caren Appel, Laren Edwards, Sue Elinoff, Lauren Feiner, Glenn Miller, Debbie Parker, Nancy Perlman, Kim Robbins, Jeanine Rogozinski, Ellen Rosner, Diane Rothstein, Fran Selevan, Rebekah Selevan, Allison Korman Shelton, Blair Sherman, Kendall Sisisky, Randee Steinberg, Alison Trager, Stacie Wilf, Chase Zimmerman. Rabbi Joshua & Rebecca Lief, Jan & Bruce Lipsky, Monique & David Miller, Michael & Glenn Miller, Moore Stephens Lovelace, P.A., Debbie & Jeff Parker, Nancy & Gary Perlman, Kim & David Robbins, Rogers Towers, Jeanine & Chaim Rogozinski, Ellen & Alan Rosner, Selevan Family, Setzer’s Appliances, Sylvia & Joel Shapiro, Steve Sherman – Current/ Sherman Group, Merrill Lynch, Sisisky & Sherman Families, Linda & David Stein, Lonnie & Bruce Steinberg, Stein Mart, Rochelle & David Stoddard, Trager Family Foundation, Synovus Bank of Jacksonville, Tracey & David Vandroff, Wells Fargo, Stacie & Larry Wilf,

Brenda & Gene Wolchok, Susan & Stephen Wolchok, Robin & David Wolf and Zimmerman Family Foundation. We would also like to extend a special thank you to the Atlantis Resort, Baha Mar Resort and Casino, bestbet Jacksonville, Certifiedsteakandseafood.com, Coley’s Confections, DJ Chill Will, Impressions San Marco, Larry Tallis/ Tallis Photography, Perfect Parties, Southern Wine and Spirits, as well as all those who sold raffle tickets on behalf of the JCA, especially Michael DeSanto and Barbara Nykerk. Thank you to all who attended the event, purchased raffle tickets and supported the JCA’s 2015 fundraising campaign.

JCA valued members. Registration required by March 19.

pespecialist@jcajax.org. Games are held at Bolles High School Stadium Field Sundays, March 29 to May 31, 4 - 7 p.m. The fee for this program is $90 and $60 for JCA valued members.

JCA happenings For more information or to register for programs at the JCA, call 904-730-2100 or visit www. jcajax.org.

Vandroff Art Gallery

The paintings of Jan Koss are featured until March 25. Now that she is settled in Florida, Jan’s love of vibrant color is reflected in her capture of the natural beauty of landscape, flower and beachscape paintings.

Young Concert Artists Series

Violinist Stephen Waarts performs on Sunday, March 15, at 3 p.m. The 2013 Young Concert Artists International Auditions winner is the current Frank S. Bayley Fellow at the Curtis Institute. He is also an accomplished mathematician. Thanks to the generosity of the Berman Family, this concert is free to the community. Reservations are requested.

JCA Film Series

A.K.A. Doc Pomus on Sunday, March 22, at 2 p.m. Brooklynborn, polio-stricken Jerome Felder became a blues singer in Greenwich Village. Taking the name Doc Pomus, he became one

of rock and roll’s most brilliant songwriters. His timeless hits infuse this biography. This event is free and open to the community. Reservations are requested.

Yoga-tation

Combining the ancient practices of yoga and meditation can help you improve flexibility, reduce stress and increase energy. Join certified instructor Gisela Morgan for this exciting new class and walk away feeling relaxed and refreshed. Dates for this course are Mondays, March 2 to 23, 5:45 - 6:45 p.m. The fee is $60 and $40 for JCA valued members. Registration required.

Unmasking European Anti-Semitism

A representative from the AntiDefamation League gives an in-depth analysis of European Anti-Semitism, where it is going and how we can act to combat it as a community. This program is on Tuesday, March 3, 7 - 8:30 p.m. The fee for this program is $5; JCA valued members are free. Advance registration appreciated.

Live from NY recast

America & Israel: The Way

Forward. Join Dalia Rabin, former Israeli deputy minister of defense, and Dennis Ross, ambassador and former Mideast envoy to President Clinton, on Tuesday, March 31, at 7 p.m. for an enlightening discussion on the future of Israel. This program is $5; JCA valued members are free. Advance registration appreciated.

Pottery

This eight-week course teaches hand-building, wheel-throwing and how to glaze and finish pieces using high-fire glazing techniques. No previous clay experience required. A bag of clay is provided if needed. The course is on Tuesdays, March 10 to April 28, 10 a.m. - noon or 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. The fee for this course is $216 and $144 for JCA valued members.

Optimal Fulfillment

The final installment of the Optimal Thinking, Optimal Living series, led by master life coach Dr. Elliott Rosenbaum, teaches you how to use the power of your mind to achieve your most optimal life. This program is on Wednesday, March 25, 7 - 8:30 p.m. The fee is $12 and $8 for

Understanding food labels

On Thursday, March 12, 7 8:30 p.m., join nutritionist and holistic health practitioner Dr. Jon Repole as he virtually walks you down the grocery aisle and explains how to decipher nutritional labels and ingredient statements. The fee for this program is $5; JCA valued members are free. Advance registration appreciated.

Red Cross-certified lifeguard training

Certification dates are March 11 to 19. For more information, please contact the Aquatics Department at ext. 240. The fee for this program is $285 and $190 for JCA valued members.

Youth flag football league

The JCA Youth Flag Football League is for ages 4 to 17. A mandatory skills evaluation will be held at Bolles High School on March 8, with play dates on Sundays, March 29 to May 31. The fee is $150 and $100 for JCA valued members. For more information, contact Coach Rio at ext. 250 or rio.robinson@jcajax.org.

Adult flag football league

Form teams of six to eight players for 5-on-5 flag football. Register individually or with a friend and be placed on a team. Rosters must be submitted by March 22. To register a team, contact Geoff at ext. 254 or

JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE 2014 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $205,000

904.730.2100 wwwjcajax.org

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

page 19

www.jewishjacksonville.org

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA

Recognizing strong women leaders By JEFF KLEIN

Jewish Community Foundation

urim is one of those fun holidays and Jewish celebrations that people of all ages enjoy. From the Purim costumes, depicting the likes of Mordechai and Queen Esther, hamentashen the delectable three cornered pastry, to the reading of the Megillah the unforgettable story of a courageous women, this is truly a holiday that engages people of all ages to eat, drink, and to be merry. Central to the holiday is a celebrated woman, Queen Esther, a woman known for her beauty who transcended and evolved into a leader, standing up for her beliefs. Interestingly, however, she was not always a leader. She was a commoner who ascended to become queen who ultimately worked to achieve her life’s passion — saving the Jews of Persia. Esther was courageous and exuded confidence in the face of adversity and impending doom. It’s fitting, consequently, that Esther is remembered during March this year, which is Women’s History Month, since she is an esteemed woman in history. Locally, women in leadership roles at the Jewish organizations and synagogues as both lay volunteers and professionals, continue to transform our community and our boards. Women donors of all ages have made a significant impact in the community, as well. Our Foundation has many Queen Esthers. Some, unfortunately, are no longer with us, while others are shaping the future for the community through their philanthropy and engagement. The Foundation has many women donors, volunteers, and committee members. Our Queen Esthers balance family, professional, and volunteer engagement. Some of our women donors, like Barbara Jaffe, chair our Investment Committee. Other women who serve on our Foundation Board include Sue Nussbaum, Andrea Mail and Ellen Rosner. In addition the Foundation is blessed to have many women donors who have ensured that the Jewish community will have the needed funds now and in future years. These woman have established endowment funds, signed declarations of intent and have made provisions in their estate plans. These wonderfully inspired and dedicated leaders and donors understand the role and importance of women being engaged and giving back to the community through philanthropy, and as mentors and role models for future generations of lay leaders and professionals. Queen Esther, having lost her family, her home, and her freedom, persevered. Her transformation from orphan girl to queen and a leader is breathtaking. Queen Esther rose from ordinary circumstances to take on a huge responsibility — saving the Jewish people. Today’s woman, whether she is a generous Foundation donor, a dedicated volunteer, or one of our esteemed professional colleagues, uses her intellectual and spiritual resources to achieve miraculous results and inspire all of us. Happy Purim to one and all, and a heartfelt thank you to all of our Queen Esthers. Jeff.klein@jewishfederationnefl.org

MONEY MATTERS

Partner highlight – River Garden By Jewish Community Foundation

When you think of the Jewish community and women’s leadership, the one organization that immediately pops to the forefront is River Garden. Marsha Leibo Pollock is the president of the River Garden board. She brings a lifetime of passion and history to her lay volunteer capacity. There are many women who serve in many capacities today at our partner agency, chairing committees from the annual gala to the River Garden Auxiliary. The women professionals at River Garden provide exceptional leadership. Betty Sorna, chief financial officer; Kathy Osterer, chief development officer; Carol Thomas, chief nursing officer; Bobbie Jo Mentz, director of therapies; Leslie Held, volunteer coordinator; Amber Hochstetler, director of admissions; Sue Krall, director of home health; Allison Lloyd, director of pharmacy; Kelli Walker,

director of human resources; and Dr. Ana Orman, medical director, just to name a few. Today’s seniors demand, as they should, a place to live their lives in comfort and dignity; a place where seniors can age gracefully in place with access to healthcare if needed, and social and recreational programs to enrich their lives on a daily basis. Our River Garden is the jewel of our community. Women played a crucial role in the establishment of River Garden dating back to 1922 as the Ladies Hebrew

Aid Sheltering Society helped establish River Garden Hebrew Home in 1946, Florida’s first Jewish home. Women today play an essential and vital role in the future of River Garden. Planned giving and the establishment of endowment funds will ensure that current services can be provided and that River Garden will be able to meet unmet needs well into the future. The Ladies Hebrew Sheltering Aid Society had a vision of providing care to those less fortunate. They had a dream, a plan to establish a place where the aged could be cared for in their waning years. Fast forward 69 years, and we have a facility that is state of the art and is financially secure. With continued support through endowments, the Foundation’s partner, River Garden, will be here for many years to provide care and caring to future generations of Jewish seniors. You’ve come a long way baby.

Lion endowment makes powerful statement By KEVIN ROGERS

Jewish Community Foundation

Last month, an estimated 114.4 million viewers tuned in to witness the highly anticipated matchup between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLIX. While this year’s game was an instant classic, many viewers had little interest in what happened on the field. Instead, they were drawn to the game by the commercials. Advertisers spend millions of dollars on a single commercial slot in a battle to capture the attention of what is normally the largest television audience of the year. This year’s batch of commercials were much like those in previous years: some were great, some were bad, some made you laugh, others made you cry and a few left you scratching your head in confusion. One commercial that garnered a host of positive reviews was the Always: #LikeAGirl spot. To quote Maura Judkis of the Washington Post, “On a day that glorifies masculine athleticism, Proctor & Gamble makes viewers consider female strength as well” (look it up on Youtube if you missed it – it’s worth 60 seconds of your time).

Norma Kipnis-Wilson and Toby Friedland of Miami dreamed of creating a program that would symbolize a Jewish woman’s strength, caring and financial commitment to Jewish causes. From their collaboration, The Lion of Judah program was established to recognize women who contributed $5,000 or more to the Federation’s Annual Campaign. Recognizing that their annual gift should continue even when they are no longer here, some of these same women have established a Lion of Judah Endowment Fund at the Foundation. A LOJE may be established using cash, appreciated assets like stock, mutual funds or even real estate, leaving a bequest in your will. Many women have purchased a life insurance policy that will create their own personal LOJE. Recently a young women wanted to establish a LOJE. To establish a LOJE that would generate $5,000 per year, that fund had to be 20 times that amount or $100,000. This young women decided to purchase a life insurance policy with a value of $100,000. The Foundation grant policy is to spend 5 percent of the value each year so that this fund will provide a Lion of Judah gift at this woman’s demise

of $5,000. The LOJE makes a powerful statement of a woman’s commitment to tzedakah. Once you’ve establish your LOJE, you may also choose to enhance your Lion of Judah pin by adding a flame, representing the everlasting light. Jeff Klein, the executive director at Foundation, will walk you through the process of creating a LOJE that is right for you. Please call 904-265-6855 or email jeff. klein@jewishfoundationnefl.org today. And remember, by creating a LOJE with the Foundation, your legacy will live on. The Northeast Florida community will benefit from your generosity for years to come.

Advisor spotlight: Barbara Jaffe By KEVIN ROGERS

Jewish Community Foundation

One of the core responsibilities of a financial advisor is to develop a plan of action for the client that will enable them to achieve their financial goals. Some people have a unique set of needs based on unusual life circumstances. But by and large, most of us face a common set of goals. Two common goals are providing for the college education of children/grandchildren and ensuring an adequate savings has been built to provide for a secure retirement. These goals normally have very specific dates by which they need to be achieved. For example, if you have a daughter entering the sixth grade, you know you have seven years to save for her college education. If you are 40 and want to retire at 60, you know you have 20 years to save for retirement. These deadlines bring a sense of urgency not only to develop a plan, but also to take disciplined and decisive action to implement the plan. As folks mature and move past these financial hurdles, their needs change. A couple who has successfully put children/ grandchildren through college, built a comfortable retirement nest egg, and are enjoying their retirement years begin to face a new set of questions. “You’ve successfully completed the

Barbara Jaffee basic things, now what are the lasting things you want to address? After spending a lifetime working toward achieving tangible goals, it can become difficult shifting priorities to more intangible goals. These often include fundamental life questions such as ‘What legacy do I want to leave for my family and my community? What causes do I want to support both now and after I’m gone?’ As an advisor, helping clients fulfill these additional dreams is one

of the most rewarding things I do.” Jaffe believes it’s essential for individuals and families to introduce their financial advisors to the Jewish Community Foundation and its executive director, Jeff Klein. “I have worked with Barbara and other financial advisors who were advising clients and encouraging them to use a portion of their accumulated assets to establish a lasting legacy in the form of a JCF endowment fund,” said Jeff Klein. “A legacy that will perpetuate the values and passions of the parents or grandparents for future generations.” “My experience and history with the JCF is extensive: I was a part of the group that founded the JCF, helped write the Investment policy statement that guides the stewardship of funds held by the JCF, serve as a JCF trustee and chair the JCF’s Investment Committee. It is rewarding, both as a financial advisor and a JCF trustee, to see the JCF grow and mature into the role of making it possible for folks to leave a Jewish legacy that is meaningful and lasting for their family as well as the Jewish community at large.” Barbara Jaffe serves on the Board of the Jewish Community Foundation and is the chair of the Investment Oversight Committee. She has been a financial advisor since 1978.

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA 2014 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $50,000

page 20

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/JaxJewish

RIVER GARDEN SENIOR SERVICES

RIVER GARDEN 2014 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $192,000

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

www.jewishjacksonville.org

page 21

JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES Briefs

Inclusion program succeeds with sibling support

By Jewish Family & Community Services

PJ Library

PJ Library, the award-winning free program for books and music is open to all families with Jewish children in Jacksonville. If your children are between the ages of 6 months and 8 years are eligible. Please sign up now by going to www.pjlibrary. org/communities/jacksonville, or calling Ilene Schinasi@904-394-5724.

Call2Go

Call2Go is the transportation program at JFCS. We work with Checker Cab. We are happy to schedule rides for Shabbat and holidays at no charge. We also provide rides for medical appointments and quality of life events. Call Ilene for more information 904-224-6287.

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 help us deliver food to those who cannot get out, please call Ilene at 904-394-5724.

JELF applications available March 1

Applications for interest-free loans for post-secondary education (college, graduate school, vocational and professional courses) will be available to Jewish students for the 2015-2016 school year from the Jewish Educational Loan Fund. The loan application will be available March 1 – April 15 on JELF’s website at www.jelf.org. JELF loans are need-based and offer lastdollar financing, meaning that JELF provides the final dollars that bridge the gap between a student’s total financial resources and the cost of attending school. Applicants must be enrolled full time in a program leading to a degree or certificate at an accredited institution that is located in the United States, be a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and be able to demonstrate financial need (FAFSA application required). For more information, contact Renie Levin, local JELF administrator at Jewish Family & Community Services at rlevin@jfcsjax.org, 904-394-5721 or visit www. jelf.org.

On Feb. 1 children ages 8-12 gathered at Jewish Family & Community Services for support, fun and friendship. What united these children is that they have each have a sibling with a

disability or special needs. This is the second Sibling Support Workshop led by Cindy Land, inclusion coordinator, and Lori Wayne, school counselor. The children enjoyed getting to know each other better, sharing honest stories and feelings, and craft-

Model Seder set for Holocaust survivors By Jewish Family & Community Services Holocaust Studies students.

JFCS and USY will co-sponsor a model Seder for Holocaust survivors and their families at the Jacksonville Jewish Center Sunday, March 22, 2 - 4 p.m. The model Seder will be conducted by the USY youth group and Sandalwood High School

We are pleased to announce the publication of the third edition of the Holocaust Haggadah. Seder text is written by Rabbi Lubliner with new stories of local survivors. For information, please call Naomi Mirensky at 904-3945777.

The Jewish Healing Network’s Alexandra and Mark Miller Speaker Series announces guest speakers By Jewish Family & Community Services people don’t just listen. They

Jewish Family & Community Services is excited to announce that Ellen and Paul Chute will be guest speakers at the 8th Annual Alexandra & Mark Miller Speaker Series on March 12 at 7 p.m. at the Marriott Southpoint, 4670 Salisbury Road. Ellen and Paul are licensed master social workers in Michigan. Ellen is the chief clinical officer for Jewish Family Services Metropolitan Detroit. Paul is a clinical social worker with Empowerment Associates. Together they are the he-saidshe-said relationship experts team. When Ellen and Paul talk,

laugh, learn and leave with the tools they need to create healthy, mutually beneficial relationships with others. This therapeutic tag team combines a hearty dose of humor with realistic relationship vignettes to hammer home common communication breakdowns as well as how to successfully repair them. The Alexandra & Mark Miller Speaker Series is a program of the Jewish Healing Network at JFCS. The event is free to the public. Light refreshment will be served. Sponsorships are available. For further information, please contact Ilene Schinasi at ischinasi@jfcsjax. org or 904-394-5724.

One donation leads to another

ing a special tree to celebrate Tu B’Shevat. Our workshops provide special attention and quality time for these children. Upcoming dates for Sibling Support Workshops are: Sunday, March 22, and Sunday, May 3, from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. We

meet at the JFCS offices at 6261 DuPont Station Court East. If you or someone you know would enjoy our workshops, please email Cindy Land at cland@jfcsjax.org.

Levin celebrates 25 years of service at JFCS

By Jewish Family & Community Services

JFCS recently recognized Renie Levin for 25 years of continuous employment with the agency. She began her JFCS career as a receptionist and has working in a variety of areas since. Renie has served in donor relations, event planning, archives, Food Pantry, reception, and anywhere help was needed. You will find her today greeting guests and clients as they enter JFCS offices on Dupont Station Court. Over the years, as JFCS has grown and expanded, Renie said that the most memorable event in her 25 years was the 2010 annual event, Hooray for Hollywood. She continues to manage the Jewish Educational Loan Fund program, finding it very reward-

Colleen Rodriguez and Renie Levin ing to “help kids go to college and get started in life.” When asked why she loves working for JFCS, her response was that it simply “feels like family.” Thank you Renie!

Volunteer spotlight features Elinor Snow By Jewish Family & Community Services

Jewish Healing Network, a program of Jewish Family & Community Services, provides service directly to the Jewish community through volunteer opportunities. The JHN is based on the tradition of bikkur cholim, a wide range of activities performed by individuals or groups to provide comfort and support to people who are ill, homebound, isolated and/or otherwise in distress. Elinor Snow became a Jewish Healing Network volunteer almost five years ago. After working for many years, Elinor decided that retirement was “just OK.” After speaking with some of her friends who were volunteering, she felt this would be something

she would enjoy. After having cared for her mother-in-law and then her mother before they both passed away, Elinor thought that JHN would be a good fit. Elinor has two clients. One client enjoys getting out of the house once a week for lunch, shopping or errands. Her other client is happy to sit and talk about her life, family and many achievements. Elinor truly enjoys her visits and feels a sense of well being when she comes home. Elinor also updates the Food Pantry database and maintains records of the number of clients and meals provided. We are fortunate to have a special volunteer in Elinor. If you are interested volunteering, please call Ilene Schinasi at 904-394-5724 or email ischinasi@jfcsjax.org.

JFCS spotlights Intake Specialist Tierra Turner By Jewish Family & Community Services

From left: JFCS Suzanne Zimmerman, Beth Israel Office Manager Jarred Burke and Certus Bank Representative Erin Byrd.

Tierra Turner represented JFCS in January at a MAZON conference in Los Angeles. Titled, Solutions to Senior Hunger: A Jewish Response to Hunger, discussions surrounded what was

By Jewish Family & Community Services after the holidays.

Certus Bank Customer Service Representative Erin Byrd began a food drive in January at her bank on San Jose Boulevard, engaging employees and customers and encouraging them to donate food items for the JFCS Food Pantry. However, Erin soon learned of the depth of need; there was a very high demand in January

Erin discussed the situation with her rabbi at Beth Israel Messianic Synagogue and explained the urgent need for food donations. The congregants immediately rose to the occasion and donated bags and baskets of food in early February. Four days later, Erin delivered the donated food items from Certus Bank.

JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES 2014 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $288,000

learned through the program, ideas, and steps for continuing the important work of senior Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program outreach. Since April 2014, Tierra has devoted several hours each week working as the JFCS liaison on the Solutions to Senior Hunger grant, educating and enrolling seniors in the SNAP benefit program.

page 22

LIFECYCLES Birth

Leo Thomas Linsky was born Dec. 26, 2014. Parents are Sam and Stacie Linsky of Tampa. Grandparents are Dr. Alan and Jo Marks of Jacksonville, and David and Nancy Linsky of Tampa. Great-grandparents are Frank and Doris Rosenblatt of Tampa; and the late Marshall and Loretta Linsky of Tampa. Sister is Melinda Linsky of Tampa. Brother is Ben Linsky of Tampa.

B’nai Mitzvah

Zachary Joseph Mayer, son of Richard and Stacy Mayer, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of his Bar Mitzvah on March 21, 2015, at Congregation Temple Bet Yam in St. Augustine. Sharing in the simcha will be his sister Sydney Lauren Mayer, 15; his maternal grandmother Barbara Farber of St. Augustine; his paternal grandparents Robert and Gloria Mayer of Las Vegas; and many other friends and family. Zachary is in eighth grade at Pacetti Bay Middle School, where he is an honor student, and plays the clarinet and tenor saxophone in the wind ensemble and jazz band. He enjoys all creative endeavors including working with sculpture, charcoals, ink and other media. He is passionate about Mine Craft and animals, particularly his five dogs. For his charitable project he will be working with a local shelter to raise funds and/or do a food drive. Logan Ellis Sims, son of Dea and Mike Sims, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of his Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, March 7, at Congregation Ahavath Chesed. Sharing in the simcha will be his older brother Lawrence, his grandparents H.C. and Marilyn Sims, and many other friends and family. Logan is in the seventh grade at Episcopal School of Jacksonville, where he plays football and basketball. He enjoys all kinds of sports and attended URJ’s 6 Points Sports Academy last summer. Logan loves to draw, travel and anything to do with pets or animals. For his mitzvah project Logan is working to collect 500 towels to donate to First Coast No More Homeless Pets in its mission to find homes for pets here in Jacksonville. If you would like to donate towels, there are collection bins at Temple.

Wedding

Rachel Harris and Marco Monteiro were married Dec. 27, 2014, at TPC Sawgrass. Rachel is the daughter of Tom and Debby Harris, and granddaughter of H.C. and Marilyn Sims. She is a fourth-year dental student at the University of Louisville. Marco is the son of Drs. Paulo and Carmela Monteiro. He is a Realtor

RIVER GARDEN

with Watson Realty. Rachel and Marco will reside in Jacksonville.

SUNDAY

Continued from p. 1

Accomplishments

Shorstein & Shorstein PA is pleased to announce the arrival of two members of the third generation of Shorstein CPAs. Benjamin Shorstein graduated the University of Florida with master’s and bachelor’s degrees in accounting, a 3.9 GPA in his tax courses, passed the CPA exam in the first sitting, and had several years of experience with a large Texas CPA firm. Daniel Shorstein has over 10 years public accounting experience, including over four years with a Big Four International CPA firm. Daniel’s numerous achievements include coauthoring an article, which recently appeared in the Wall Street Journal on government accounting practices.

Super and Thank You Sunday Agency Volunteer Challenge. With more than 20 volunteers, MJGDS took home a grand prize of $1,000. The school, lo-

cated in Mandarin, is one of the oldest continuously operating Schechter Network of schools in the United States. As part of their rally to get volunteers, the school offered free T-shirts that read, “Super Sunday Call Squad.” Mazel tov to MJGDS for all their hard work getting volunteers.

Sympathy

… to the family of Betty Benson, a member of The Temple since 1955, mother of Roger and Seth Benson, and grandmother of Joshua and Andrew Benson. Betty died Jan. 19, 2015. Contributions may be made to River Garden. … to the family of Elaine D. Friedman, mother of Judy (Robert) Schnitzer; Amy (Cliff) Broman of Ann Arbor, Mich.; Ronnie Friedman of Cleveland; grandmother of four; and great grandmother of four. Elaine died on Jan. 9, 2015. Contributions may be made to the Yiddish Book Center, 1021 West Street, Amherst, MA 01002 and/or Menorah Park Foundation, 27100 Cedar Road, Cleveland, OH 44122. … to the family of Sally Levine, member of the Jacksonville Jewish Center. She is survived by her children Cheryl (Fred) Blum, Leslie (Ed) Tourigny; grandchildren Justin (Alex), Adele (Nick), Marla (Valeria), Robyn (David); and three great-grandchildren. Contributions may be made to the Jacksonville Jewish Center. … to the family of Philip Pearl, husband of Alisa Pearl, father of Susan Pearl, Jason (Patty) Pearl, Lisa Ross, Kelly Conrow; and grandfather of Brandon, Payton and Alexis. Philip died Feb. 9, 2015. Contributions may be made to the Temple and/or Community Hospice. … to the family of Marilyn Schwartz, wife of Sheldon Schwartz; mother of Emily (Craig) Turok and Martin (Sondra) Schwartz; and grandmother of Steven, Daniel and Harrison Schwartz. Marilyn died Jan. 30, 2015. Contributions may be made to River Garden Hebrew Home. … to the family of Phyllis Talisman, mother of Harold (Marci) Talisman and Amy Talisman, and grandmother of Erin and Jenna Talisman. Phyllis died Jan. 29, 2015. Contributions may be made to the City of Hope, 1000 Corporate Drive, Suite 206, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334. … to the family of Shereen Weinman, grandmother of Falyn Shilts. Shereen is also survived by husband Josh and their children, Jordyn and Zachary. Contributions may be made to DuBow Preschool at the Jacksonville Jewish Center.

Agency Volunteer Challenge winners: MJGDS

GFC

Continued from p. 1 leaves everyone with an understanding of the power of women and the privilege we have to give back. Incorporating her southern upbringing, Alison reveals that the legacy of her parents and grandparents is often difficult to live up to, but it has shaped the person she is today. Alison is quite fond of Jacksonville and says, “I am so excited and honored to be part of an evening that engages so many talented and passionate women in the Jacksonville Jewish community. Many of my best friends from Camp Ramah and USY (more than 30 years ago) were from Jacksonville so I am thrilled to be connecting with such an important part of my past and a community that clearly cares about sustaining a vibrant future.” She is also the host of “The A List with Alison Lebovitz,” a weekly television series for WTCI/PBS that has showcased some of the nation’s most fascinating people. The show has included one-on-one interviews with people such as Naomi Judd, Jon Meacham, Ken Burns, Doris Kearns Goodwin, Wes Moore, Pat Summitt, Soledad O’Brien, Alton Brown, Matisyahu, Gwen Ifill and a host of other well-known leaders and legends in

their fields. For the past 18 years she has written a monthly humor column that now appears in Tennessee Valley Parents Magazine, and is the author of, “Am I There Yet?” a collection of her candid essays and life-inspired stories. Driven by her community spirit, faith and insomnia, Alison serves on numerous nonprofit boards, including the Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga, Lyndhurst Foundation, Tennessee Aquarium, Read20, Jordan Thomas Foundation, and United Way of Greater Chattanooga. She is the current board chair for UnifiEd, a public school advocacy organization, and immediate past co-chair of National Young Leadership for Jewish Federations of North America. A native of Birmingham, Ala., Alison graduated with honors from Brandeis University and holds a Master’s Degree in radio/television/film from Northwestern University. She and her husband, Alan, live in Chattanooga, Tenn., with their three boys, Arthur, Abe and Levi. Information is forthcoming regarding Girlfriend Connection ticket prices and sponsorship opportunities. For more details about this or any Women’s Division programming, please contact Erin Cohen at 904-448-5000, ext. 205, or erinc@jewishjacksonville. org.

BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY

Continued from p. 1 come out and join the River Garden family in celebrating this wonderful home and campus that our Jewish community has built,” said Martin Goetz, River Garden CEO. “All of us can be truly proud.” The community is invited to attend this celebration. For more information, contact Skip Willbach at 904-2887855 or email swillbach@rivergarden. org. River Garden residents, families and staff look forward to celebrating with you.

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/JaxJewish

Types of Care • Companion • Personal Sawgrass Drive W, #123 • 10033 Nursing Ponte Vedra, FL 32082

   

Tax Return Preparation Tax Planning Representation Before The IRS Bookkeeping and Accounting

*Servicing Duval and

Seth Movsovitz Bonni Van, RN Servicing Florida’s First Coast…

JEWISH Jacksonville Jewish News

904.448.5000 x212 jjn@jewishjacksonville.org

904.325.9086 St. Johnsmain counties www.pvhomecare.com

904.325.9086 #30211717 www.pvhomecare.com

NR#30211717

FEDERATION

OF JACKSONVILLE 8505 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32217 facebook.com/JaxJewish jewishjacksonville.org

THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. | THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.

Gary Rothman Andrew Ocean (904) 565-1588 Joan Palmer www.TheTaxmanIRS.com Saul Schmelzer

Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2015

FEDERATION

JEWISH

page 23

www.jewishjacksonville.org

OF JACKSONVILLE

Jacksonville Jewish Educator’s Council

SAVE THE DATE OP EN EN TI CO RE TO T MM JE HE UN WIS IT H Y

E E

R F

Yom Ha’Atzmaut Edition RE

G N I

M M A R R 100 G O O F 1R P S E AG

ST R MI INF ATI NG O ON SO ON !!!

Sunday, April 26, 2015 Jacksonville Jewish Center Doors open at 9:00am

Please remember the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and the Jewish community in your will and estate plans.

page 24

Jacksonville Jewish News • February 2015

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/JaxJewish

Orthopedic Care that keeps you moving forward

Contact First Orthopedics today to register for our free assessment. Call 904-269-6565

We treat Sports Related Injuries for All Ages Whether you are a weekend warrior or an athlete, First Coast Orthopedics is here to provide the latest minimally invasive surgical techniques to get you back to your life in a matter of weeks. Dr. Julie Barré is a Board Certified Orthopedic surgeon, Fellowship trained in Sports Medicine, and has worked extensively with professional, college and high school athletes. She provides the latest in arthroscopic, shoulder and other types of sports-related surgeries. Patients are assessed, provided education and then expertly cared for. Many patients are back at their regular activities in a few weeks. Now that’s extraordinary.

Dr. Julie Gladden Barré

Expect Extraordinary. 1665 Kingsley Avenue, Suite 107 Orange Park, FL 32073 (904) 269-6565

15-JAM-1278 Ortho Jacksonville Jewish L lf.indd 1

4689 Highway 17, Suite 11 Fleming Island, FL 32003 (904) 269-7007

2/3/15 2:45 PM