HISTORY Discover how Florida’s first Jewish settlers made a living in this first of a series.
COMMUNITY U Federation’s Community U attracts 550 page 3
CAMPAIGN Women’s Champagne Brunch a success page 2
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Jewish News Jacksonville
May 2013 • Sivan/Nisan 5773 • Published by Jewish Federation of Jacksonville • www.jewishjacksonville.org • Volume 25, Number 11 • 28 pages
Introducing Jacksonville’s Jewish agency presidents
Hal Resnick, Federation
Jacksonville Jewish agency presidents for the 2013-2014 year are: Hal Resnick, Jewish Federation of Jacksonville; Jan Lipsky, Jewish Community Alliance; Mark Green, Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida; Mark Lodinger, River Garden; and Francine Kempner, Jewish Family & Community Services. Introducing:
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Hal Resnick is the new president of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. Hal and his wife Barbara moved to our community from Boston in September 2000, where they located in Ponte Vedra Beach. During his 35 years in leadership and organizational development, Hal earned international recognition as a leading authority and innovator in organizational transformation, working with clients in North and South America, Europe and the Middle East. He intended to retire when he moved here but his love for his work has kept him engaged in his profession. He maintains an active private consulting practice, now primarily serving clients in Jacksonville. As an entrepreneur, Hal founded Work Systems Associates in 1980. This management consulting firm developed a number of systems to set strategic direction, develop leadership talent, build executive teams, establish quality improvement systems, and achieve transformational change. In 1996, Hal founded Generation21 Learning Systems, a software company that developed one of the seminal webbased training and knowledge management systems. He served as its CEO through its
Jewish Federation of Jacksonville
Mark Green, Foundation
Jan Lipsky, JCA
acquisition in 1999 by Renaissance Learning. Prior to his career as an entrepreneur, Hal was a university professor at Boston University, Temple University and Wayne State University. He was also the director of organizational development for the Raytheon Data Systems Company, responsible for more than 5,000 individuals in 147 locations around the world. He earned his baccalaureate degree from the City College of New York and his masters and doctoral degrees from Wayne State University in Detroit. Hal and Barbara became involved in the Jewish community shortly after their arrival. They immediately joined Beth El at the beaches and the Temple. Hal served on the Temple board for a number of years, including a term as the vice president for programs and services. Hal and Barbara then became involved in Federation. Hal has served on the board for eight years, and Barbara has worked on a number of committees and events, while becoming a Lion of Judah. Hal has served as the major gifts chair, the campaign chair, and now assumes the presidency. Hal and Barbara have also been involved in Jewish Family & Community Services. Hal serves on the JFCS board, has guided the organization through two iterations of strategic planning and contributes his leadership development programs as a service to the agency. Barbara works as a Guardian Ad Litem for a number of the foster care children serviced by JFCS. Hal is also active in Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida. He serves
Mark Lodinger, River Garden
on the Foundation board, and both he and Barbara have actively participated in our Create a Jewish Legacy campaign. When asked why they are so active in our Jewish community, their response was simple and straightforward. “There are several thousands of years and many generations of our heritage that have brought us to where we are today. It is our collective responsibility as members of the global Jewish community to preserve our heritage, help those in need both locally and globally, and pass on what we have learned to future generations.” In that spirit Hal intends to bring focus during his term as Federation president to honor and support those who contribute to our community today, to energize and engage the next generation, and to strengthen our relationships with our partner communities in Israel, as well as throughout the Diaspora. Jan Lipsky continues as the president of the JCA Board of Directors. Lipsky has served on the board for 11 years, most recently as vice president. She has chaired the Personnel Committee, facilitated board retreats, and guided the board’s work on development of the mission and vision statements. Additionally, she drafted board member roles and responsibilities ultimately adopted by the board. In 2010, she received the prestigious Esther Leah Ritz Next Generation JCC Leadership Award from the Jewish Community Centers Association of North America. The award identifies future leaders of Jewish
Francine Kempner, JFCS
community center boards and includes a training program designed to enhance the skills needed for them to assume top leadership roles. Lipsky has served as system vice president for Human Resources and Organizational Development for St. Vincent’s HealthCare since 2000. She has served the organization for over 30 years, beginning as an instructor for Critical Care. Lipsky assisted the transition of St. Vincent’s Southside (formerly known as St. Luke’s Hospital) from Mayo Clinic in 2008 and is helping plan St. Vincent’s Clay, the system’s third hospital opening in Clay County in 2013. She is a past board chairman for Girl Scouts of Gateway Council serving from 1998 to 2004 in that role. During this time the Council Board purchased North Fork Ranch in Clay County, assuring a safe camping location for future generations of members. Jan served the council and her synagogue, the Jacksonville Jewish Center, by building the Girl Scout program from one Brownie troop to over 100 girls in all levels during the 1990s. Jan has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from FSU and UF, earned the Senior Professional Human Resources certification and is a fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives. She is married to Bruce Lipsky, a photojournalist for The Florida Times-Union. They have two daughters both recently married: Jessie Lipsky Felter (Rustin) is a graduate of FSU and Emma Lipsky Dreyer (Eric) is a graduate of UF. Both daughters teach third
See PRESIDENTS, p. 18
Spotlight: Encouraging Jewish peoplehood By DIANE RODGERS Communications Director
At Tzafririm Elementary School in Hadera, Israel, it began with a teacher’s desire to help her students learn English. “It started as a correspondence project,” English teacher Eta Golding said. “I wanted my students to practice the language.” Tzafririm students have now been corresponding with Martin J. Gottlieb Day School students in Jacksonville for more than three years. And it’s growing. “It expanded to other teachers and schools,” said Yael Naali Ben Zion, Partnership educational coordinator. The Jewish Agency for Israel hosts the
See SPOTLIGHT, p. 27
Tzafririm Elementary School students share a message with their pen pals in Jacksonville when Federation Communications Director Diane Rodgers visited there in January as part of an American Jewish Press Association press tour, sponsored by El Al Israel Airlines and the Israel Ministry of Tourism.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
WOMEN’S CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH Campaign Brunch 2013
Ruth Stein, Phyllis Vandroff, Marilyn Stein and Donna McNutt
Above: Dana Brett, and Beth Wolpoff. Below: Jen Plotkin, Christina Levine and Mauri Mizrahi
Above: Mary Edwards, Diane Rothstein and Lorry Rothstein pose in front of the Windows of Identity art exhibit. Five Jacksonville artists - Raymond Cohen, Irene Jaffa, Ellen Diamond, Emily Vandroff and Sidney Vandroff - contributed to the Israel Partnership Windows of Identity project. The project brings together artists from the eight Southern Consortium communities and our Israel Partnership communities. At right: Wendy Efron, Yael Luttwak and Kiley Efron
By ERIN COHEN
Women’s Division Director
Meryl Rittenberg and Iris Kraemer
The 2013 Women’s Division Champagne Brunch was held on Sunday, April 7, at the Marriott Southpoint. The featured speaker was Yael Luttwak, filmmaker and co-founder of Slim Peace Groups, a nonprofit organization that brings Israeli and Palestinian women together based on the universal theme
of weight-loss support. During her time living in Israel, Ariel Sharon was Prime Minister and Yassar Arafat was the leader of the PLO. Both, she noted, could stand to lose a few pounds. While Luttwak considers herself a filmmaker, not a politician, she couldn’t help but envision, “If Sharon and Arafat would just try to go out and take a jog together...” Luttwak showed a clip of
her documentary, “A Slim Peace,” gave an update on the progress of the participants and shared that the groups are now forming in the United States; the first started in Boston in January. The Windows of Identity art exhibit was also displayed, featuring artists from our Israel Partnership region in Hadera-Eiron and our Southeast Consortium cities, including Jacksonville.
Alex Ackerman and Sue Eaglstein
Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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www.jewishjacksonville.org
COMMUNITY UNIVERSITY 2013
Federation’s Community University 2013 - Independence, Ideas, and Innovation: Israel on the Cutting Edge was a huge success. Nearly 550 members of the Jewish community, ranging from age 1 through adult, came out to celebrate and learn. Thanks to all those who participated, presented, and volunteered for this annual community tradition.
Society marks 49th anniversary of mass arrest of rabbis By Jewish Historical Society
The St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society will mark the 49th anniversary of the largest mass arrest of rabbis in the United States, which took place in St. Augustine on June 18, 1964. Society members will gather across the street from the arrest site, now the Hilton Garden Inn at 32 Avenida Menendez. The group will gather at noon Tuesday, June 18, and read the two-page letter written by the rabbis in the St. Johns County Jail. The 20-minute ceremony is open to the public. There is no charge and no advance arrangements need be made. All are welcome. For further information contact 386-446-6061 or visit www. staugustinejewishhistoricalsociety. wordpress.com.
Thank you ... thank you ... 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 adverisers: • • • • • • • • • • • •
AAA Trophy Mart Baptist Health Beachview & Party Rentals Bob Ham Eyewear Brandon Pest Control Butensky & Cohen Financial Security Camellia at Deerwood Carriage Club Jacksonville Comforcare Senior Services Erica Jolles - Magnolia Properties Florida Central Region of Hadassah Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
Heekin Orthopedic Specialists Jacksonville Hadassah Jacksonville Jewish Center Jacksonville Marriott Jewish Community Alliance Jewish Family and Community Services Jewish Museum of Florida Margo’s Catering Mark Kraus, MetLife Mediterrania Memorial Hospital Museum of Comtemporary Art Neat Organize and Design
• One Ocean Resort • OneJax • PaigeWajsman-Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty • River Garden • Southern Monument Co. Inc. • Stein Mart • Stratton and Company • Tallis Ad Designs • Tom Bush BMW • Vandroff Insurance • Watson Commercial Realty • Business Directory, p. 24
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. 7 Education.................................. p. 10 Federation ................................. p. 4 Jewish Family & Community Services.................................... p. 23 Jewish Community Alliance .... p. 21 Jewish Foundation................... p. 20 Lifecycles.................................. p. 24 Obituaries................................. p. 24 Passover ................................. p. 11 Perspectives............................... p. 6 River Garden............................. p. 22 Synagogues ............................. p. 16 Women’s..................................... p. 5
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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FEDERATION NEWS
Campaign shows increase By Jewish Federation of Jacksonville
Throughout April and May, under the leadership of our chair Sandy Zimmerman, members of the Allocations Committee have met with representatives of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, the Jewish Agency for Israel, Jewish Community Alliance, Jewish Family & Community Services, River Garden, the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School and the Torah Academy of Jacksonville. Our executive committee met with leadership of the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida. Together, these outstanding organizations are providing the highest quality of services to Jewish people in Israel, in over 70 countries throughout the world and, of course, here at home in Jacksonville.
It does not come as a surprise to us that the agencies we and all Jewish federations fund need more money. The past four years have seen allocations significantly reduced in nearly all Jewish communities. The desire of these organizations to provide lifesaving and life-enhancing services here at home and overseas is clear. Their increased needs are evident to those who are on the allocations committee taking the time to learn of the current challenges the agencies are facing. We have good news regarding the 2013 Annual Campaign. As we send the Jewish News to our printer, we stand at $2,350,000. This means that we have raised more than we did last year. We have $150,000 outstanding on gifts we received last year from members of the
From the desk of Alan Margolies
community we have yet to hear from this year. Should we be able to bring in all of this money, we would raise approximately $150,000 more that we did in 2012. So we turn to you, the members of the community, with this request that you please make your gifts to the 2013 Annual Campaign at this time. By doing so, you can help us have the best campaign we have experienced since 2008. The result will be that we will be in the position to provide increased funding to the agencies that make up our Jewish family of organizations. Please call us at 448-5000 and make your contribution today. If you prefer, you may go to our web site www.jewishjacksonville.org and make you pledge online. Thank you very much. Your continued support of the Federation Annual Campaign will make all the difference in the world to the thousands of people served by the organizations relying on us through the allocations process.
May Java presents Jewish Food Trivia By ISABEL BALOTIN Shalom Jacksonville
Jewish Trivia is back, and this time we will test your knowledge of Jewish Foods and sprinkle some pop culture questions into the mix. Prizes will be awarded. Join newcomers and friends for Jewish Java on Wednesday, May 1, 9-10:30 a.m. at Let’s Nosh, 10950 San Jose Blvd. This coffee and schmoozing program is the perfect place to meet friends and find out the latest happenings in the community. Free coffee and tea for everyone. Reserve the first Wednesday of every month for Shalom Jacksonville’s Jewish Java. For more information, please contact, Isabel Balotin, 448-5000 x 206 or shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org. Next Java is June 5. Shalom Jacksonville is the official Jewish welcome wagon of Northeast Florida and is a program of the Jewish Federation.
Passover in the Matzo Aisle
This year marked five years of hosting Passover in the Matzo Aisles with Winn-Dixie. These friendly volunteers greeted and assisted shoppers: Lynn Forbes, Mimi Kaufman, Kathy Moemke, Penny Powell and Bernyce Tobias. Special thanks to the Lakewood Winn-Dixie store managers for their cooperation.
Beaches Java
Our thanks to our gracious hosts, Susan and Larry Tallis, for opening their home to our beaches newcomers and friends in March. Thank you to baker extraordinaire, Hopie Goldsmith, for baking delicious cakes, cookies and breads for the event. Another beaches event is being planned.
Annual meeting joins all local Jewish agencies By Jewish Federation of Jacksonville
According to Jewish Federation Executive Director Alan Margolies, “Jacksonville’s Jewish community is the only one in North America featuring an Annual Meeting to celebrate Federation and the community’s Jewish community center, Jewish foundation, Jewish home and Jewish family service agency.” The entire community is invited to attend the Annual Meeting to be held on Thursday, May 30, 6:15 p.m. for dinner at the Jewish Community Alliance. Highlights of the program will be the recognition, election and installation of officers and board members, and agency awards to outstanding volunteers. Repeating a new tradition begun last year, the executive directors and staff members of the agencies will prepare a barbecue dinner to include hamburgers, hot dogs, coleslaw, and the other items that make a fun dinner.
During the Annual Meeting, Hal Resnick will be installed as president of the Jewish Federation. The presidents of the other agencies – Mark Green, Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida; Jan Lipsky, Jewish Community Alliance; Mark Lodinger, River Garden Hebrew Home; and Francine Kempner, Jewish Family & Community Service – will continue in their current positions. Margolies said that the actual business of the meeting takes place in about one hour. “We encourage everyone to come for dinner and stay for our Annual Meeting. It is unique to see a Jewish community have organizations with relationships allowing for such a gathering and a statement of togetherness. Colleen, Marty, Myron, Paulette and I look forward to cooking for you, serving you and being with you on May 30.” For more information, call the Federation office at 448-5000.
Coming home to Judaism By ISABEL BALOTIN Shalom Jacksonville
You can never assume a person’s relationship to Judaism until you have a heart-to-heart conversation with them. Since its inception, Jewish Java has been a gateway to the Jacksonville Jewish community not only for newcomers but for several people newly interested in making Jewish connections. They choose Java as their entry point because it’s social and a non-threatening way to begin their Jewish journeys. For those of us who are involved in the Jewish community, it’s hard to believe that someone can live in Jacksonville for 10, 15 or even 20 years and not have any contact with any Jewish organization or agency, yet it is a reality. There are many more unconnected and under involved Jews in our community than we think. Having our events in public spaces breaks down barriers and allows these newly interested to make their
personal connections in their own time frames. This April Java brought us another person who wanted to reconnect with her Jewish roots. Java regulars, being a friendly group, love greeting newcomers and making them feel at home. Before our new friend left, she had the Jewish News and other community flyers in hand and accepted an invitation to attend Shabbat services with two of our regulars. As she was saying her goodbyes to everyone, she came over to me and gave me a big hug, and with a tear in her eye she told me how happy she was to meet everyone and that she is now ready to take an introduction to Judaism class. With that said, I welcomed her “home” and hugged her back. If you are reading this and wish to get more involved in your community, please call me and I will help you make your personal Jewish connections. Call 4485000 x 206 or shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org.
Proposed slate of officers and board members announced By Jewish Federation of Jacksonville
In accordance with the bylaws of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville, the nominating committee chaired by immediate past president, Gary Perlman, presents to the members of the Jewish community a proposed slate of officers and board members for the fiscal year July 1, 2013, to June 30, 2014. Election and installation will occur at the annual meeting to be held on May 30 at the Jewish Community Alliance. The executive committee will include: Harold Resnick, president; Sandy Zimmerman, first vice president and campaign chair; vice presidents, Wendy Efron, Iris Kraemer, Mike Nuss-
baum and Risa Herman, women’s division president; Ken Jacobs, treasurer; Jon Israel, secretary; Erica Jolles, chair Young Leadership Division; Larry Appel, immediate past president; Richard Sisisky, presidential appointee; and Mark Green, president of the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida. The chair of the women’s campaign will be determined. Board members include: Francine Kempner (Jewish Family & Community Services); Mark Lodinger (River Garden); Jan Lipsky, (Jewish Community Alliance); Michael Abel, Claudia Baker, Nancy Davis, Susan DuBow, Andrew Jaffa, Michael Koren, Michael Korn, Andrea
Mail, Lenny Maiman, Adam Marmelstein, Ben Marsh, Daniel Miller, Jennifer Plotkin, Zachary Sherman, Emily Rosenbaum, Ellen Rosner, Diane Rothstein, Mike Solloway, Susan Wolchok, and Eugene Wolchok. Past president/honorary life members include: Scot Ackerman, Guy Benrubi, Jack Coleman, Ronald Elinoff, Leslie Held, Joan Levin, Mitchell Levine, Gary Perlman, David Robbins, Kenneth Sekine, Leonard Setzer, Stephen Silverman, Richard Sisisky, Arnold Vandroff and Elliot Zisser. Rabbis include: Rabbi Mona Decker, Rabbi Yaakov Fisch, Rabbi Joshua Lief, Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner and Rabbi Michael Matuson.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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WOMEN’S/COMMUNITY PAGE
Hadassah offers Children at Risk program By Hadassah
Jacksonville Hadassah invites you to an interactive program on Children at Risk, Wednesday, May 22, at 7 p.m. The program will be held at the Jacksonville Jewish Center, Crown Point Road, and will benefit Youth Aliyah. A panel discussion will be
held with representatives from Hadassah/Youth Aliyah, as well as Jewish Family & Community Services. Come learn how we are helping children at risk both in Israel and here in Jacksonville. A covert of $5 at the door will go to Youth Aliyah. Youth Aliyah is a child rescue program that Hadassah helped to
create in 1934. At that time the focus was on rescuing tens of thousands of children from war torn Eastern Europe and youth were settled in agricultural villages that helped to build what would
become a new state of Israel. Today the job of Youth Aliyah is to help resettle the children of the Ethiopian and Russian migrations as well as the Israeli children who are part of the over 300,000 youth
Sisterhood Shabbat
living on the streets, doing drugs, drinking and doomed to a life that goes nowhere. For additional information or to RSVP, call Aviva Kaplan at (904) 538-0225.
Jacksonville Hadassah presents
Children at Risk Who are they? And what is being done to help them? Come learn about programs that are helping at-risk children both locally, here in Jacksonville, and in Israel through our Youth Aliyah programs.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013 ▪ 7:00 P.M. WRJ Temple Sisterhood Past Presidents were honored during WRJ Centennial Sisterhood Shabbat held at Congregation Ahavath Chesed on March 1. Front row, from left: Pat Goldberg, Ruthie Nachman (centennial ambassador), Rhoda London (current co-president), Thelma Nied, Anita Teitelbaum, Arlene Newman. Middle row, from left: Laura Osofsky, Susan Board (current co-president) Pat Ennis, Lois Schlesinger, Wendy Efron. Back row, from left: Celeste Danos, Gail Jarrett, Deb Kuhr, Sharyn Allen.
River Garden Auxiliary honors Judy Paul By River Garden Auxiliary
Join us at the Closing Luncheon for the auxiliary as we honor Judy Paul, this year’s recipient of the Minnie Schreiber River Garden Auxiliary Award. This award is presented to an auxiliary member Judy Paul who has demonstrated outstanding service, support and dedication to the auxiliary. Judy has been involved at River Garden since she was a child following in the footsteps of her mother, Rubye Safer, a past
president of the auxiliary. This special day starts with a lunch and entertainment provided by Sweet & Stryker Music Company, an acoustic jazz duo. Our new board will also be installed. Elected board: President Naomi Lazar, Vice President Fundraising Sandy Selwitz, Vice President Membership Ilene Schinasi, General Treasurer Nancy Mizrahi, Financial Secretary Bernice Stone, Recording Secretary Shirley Bielski, Corresponding Secretary Marilyn Mass. Co-chairs of the day are Michele Steinfeld and Hollie Arnold. Event details: Tuesday, May 28; noon (doors open at 11:30 a.m.) at River Garden; $10 per person by Friday, May 17; $15 per person after May 17; Checks “River Garden Auxiliary” mail to: Michele Steinfeld, 3828 La Vista Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32217
Interesting and often unexpected: Center Sisterhood’s Hot Topic
to be held at the Jacksonville Jewish Center
3662 Crown Point Road -open to the entire community-
Help Make Their Future Possible! Their Tomorrows Begin With Today!
Join our distinguished panelists:
Aviva Kaplan, VP Education, Jacksonville Hadassah Colleen L. Rodriguez LCSW, Executive Director,
RSVP 538-0225 avivajkaplan@gmail.com
Jewish Family & Community Services
Jodi Seitlin, Attorney at Law Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner, Jacksonville Jewish Center
$5 at the door will benefit Youth Aliyah
Up to
60% OFF
Department Store Prices, Every Day
By Center Sisterhood
You never know what you are going to get at Center Sisterhood’s Hot Topic sessions. On March 13 Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner discussed the anti-circumcision movement that is spreading throughout Europe and even here in the United States in cities such as San Francisco. He is pictured here with photos from a website of examples that seem to be using circumcision as a thinly veiled cover for anti-Semitism. He is holding in one hand a picture of Monster Mohel, the evil Jewish circumciser, and in the other a picture of Foreskin Man, the Aryan superhero protecting men’s foreskins from the Jewish villains. We thank Rabbi Lubliner for
a cautionary discussion that was lively and informative. The world continues to give us topics and Center Sisterhood brings them to you each month. Please join us for the next Hot Topic on May 15 at 10:30 a.m.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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PERSPECTIVES
Jacksonville
Jewish News Diane Rodgers, Communications Director 904.448.5000, ext. 212 Advertising Representatives Barbara Nykerk • 904.733.4179 Eta Perras • 904.629.0466 Communications Committee Jon Israel, Chair Shirley Bielski Helen Hill Michele Katz Joan Levin Andrea Mail Rachel Morgenthal Marsha Pollock Gail Sterman Federation President Larry Appel 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.
When is it time to take the keys? Part 2 By JILL METLIN Columnist
I
n my last column, I talked about how to know when it’s time for your parents or grandparents to stop driving. As promised, this column will focus on how to broach the subject gently. Most of us hope that parents will stop driving voluntarily. And sometimes that does happen. Your folks will say, “Ach, what do I need that old car for anyway?” Or they will let it sit in the driveway and ask you to do most of the shopping and schlepping, etc. But for many of us, it doesn’t happen like this. We start to see our parents declining. First they don’t drive at night; second they begin to only go short distances or only to places with which they are very familiar. You notice a few dings in the car that weren’t there before. You see them drive away and you get nervous. Or you are driving with them and their skills leave much to be desired. Or even worse, they get lost coming home. It’s then you say to yourself, “This is not good.” And you wonder, “How am I going to get them (or him, or her) to stop driving?” As we have said before, driving a car can be seen as one of the last personal freedoms for many elderly people. Many rely on their car to go to their doctor appointments, out to eat, to their place of worship or the grocery store. Just have a conversation. Ask basic questions such as, “How do you feel about driving these days?” “Can you tell me where that dent came from?” They will know what you are hinting at so you are sure to get a response. It could be an indignant one whether they are truly still good
drivers or not. The response could be relief, as well. Someone finally asked them and understands that they are not comfortable driving anymore. The most important thing to bring to the table are options. What to do with the car, how will they be able to get around, how often will you or someone else (a friend, a neighbor, a service) be there to take them where they want to go. What if they want to keep the car and have someone else drive them in it? So before going into the lion’s den, arm yourself with information. Call AARP or AAA and look on the web for information. If they live in a retirement community, check and see what transportation services are available right there. And be sure to check with the Jewish Services Department of our own Jewish Family & Community Services (www. jfcsjax.org) or wherever your loved ones live, as well as the local Area Agency on Aging. Here it’s called ElderSource (www. myeldersource.org). The decision to take your parents or grandparent’s keys should not be taken lightly. However, you need to keep in mind that taking away the keys may be the lesser of two evils. One being that they have an accident and hurt themselves or others, and the other is that they are mad at you for awhile. I am sure the latter is nothing new and that you can live with that more than living with the consequences of letting your parents be unsafe drivers. Go ahead, have that talk. It’s not so bad. Suggestions, comments, questions? Contact me at jillmetlin@ gmail.com. Thank you, and see you next time.
Shavout revelations By RABBI JOSHUA LIEF Congregation Ahavath Chesed
I
loved the Tooth Fairy. Every time I lost a tooth, I’d leave it under my pillow and awake the next morning to find a quarter, a pack of sugar-free Trident gum, and a personal note from the Fairy thanking me and reminding me to brush my teeth every day. It was one of the great mysteries of life, yet it was a constant source of hope. The pain of losing the tooth was repaid with the generous reward, and even more importantly, I knew that someone magical cared about the minutia of my life. I don’t remember how old I was when the curtain was pulled back, but I do remember the morning when, while reading the Tooth Fairy’s note to me, I realized that she had the exact same handwriting as my father. Furthermore, just like my father, her note was scrawled in bright red pen. Not a lot of people use red pens for note writing, and while it is possible that the Tooth Fairy has a side job grading papers like a genetics professor, I put the pieces together, confronted my dad, and learned the truth. Was I hurt by the deception? Honestly, I can’t remember, but I do know that it was comforting to rediscover my parents’ love and devotion: Someone magical did, indeed, care about me! While at the time, I likely appreciated the quarter most of all, looking back now I am thankful that they took the time to write the note, buy the gum, sneak into my room and deliver the package. The issue of whether the “Fairy” herself was
real pales in comparison to the value of the experience that was passed on to me. The holiday of Shavuot is coming at the end of this month, and yes, Virginia, there is a Sinai Moment. It may or may not surprise you that many Bible scholars dispute the reality of the Exodus story, the foundation point of Jewish peoplehood. Before the Exodus, we were just a loose conglomeration of cousins, descendants of Abraham, who were enslaved in Egypt. Through a shared redemption, followed by a shared revelation at Sinai, we became a nation with laws and a purpose: to partner with God in bettering ourselves and the world. The story tells us that God spoke, out loud for all to hear, and all of us agreed to enter into the covenant. Yet, archeologists, historians and Bible scholars find little to no support from artifacts, historical documents, or corroborating materials of any kind to “prove” that the Exodus really happened. Furthermore, every hill in the Sinai desert has two common features: a guide who’ll tell you it’s the real Mount Sinai and will take you to the top for a few American dollars, and an ice cream cart to sell you a treat when you climb down the other side. What are we to make of this predicament? We like proof! It would be nice if one of the myriad of Egyptian records referred in any way to a slave rebellion and escape. It would be great if archeologists could show that at a certain point in time, over a million new people arrived in the Holy Land. It would be a dream come true if we could be certain of the facts, but that we can’t begs
RABBINICALLY SPEAKING
an important question: Does the story have to be history to be of value to our people? Certainly we are a religion with a shared code of morality and ethics, a shared bond that we pass down from generation to generation, even without documentary or archeological evidence. Perhaps the answer comes to us from another direction. In Deuteronomy, before heading into the Promised Land, Moses reminds the Israelites that they all stood at Sinai and entered into the covenant. It was made with those present that day, and with those not present, as well, but none of the generation who left Egypt, save Moses, Joshua, and Caleb, were still alive listening to Moses. Maybe the message is that just as that generation heard a covenantal call and answered it for themselves, so too, each generation, ourselves and our children likewise, find ourselves free to answer or not. For the covenant to be meaningful, it has to mean something to each of us. One cannot be a default Jew, because Judaism demands our actions. The support for our faith is not found on a mountaintop in the wilderness, but rather in the climb toward to summit of our own higher selves each and every day. This Shavuot, I invite you to think of yourself, not merely as if you stood at Sinai back then, but as if you are standing before God still today, for in reality all of us are. The Torah is alive because we, as Jews, bring it to bear on our daily lives. This Shavuot, may each of us find the inspiration to follow in the footsteps of our ancestors, who, when called by God were each able to answer, “Hineini, here I am.”
Series part 1: Jews in Florida By HAZEL MACk and MARSHA POLLOCk
This is part 1 of a series of articles reflecting on Jacksonville’s Jewish history.
T
he current population of Jews in Jacksonville is over 15,000 – a long way from the original few that began populating our city around 1850. Here’s how it all started. Florida began recording Jewish residents as early at 1763, when England acquired Florida from the Spanish. Three Jews from Louisiana start businesses in Pensacola. Samuel Meyers settles in Pensacola, and becomes alderman and an officer in the military. By 1819, Moses Elias Levy buys 92,000 acres in what is now St. Johns, Volusia and Alachua counties. In 1822 he builds New Pilgrimage, a refuge for Jews. He
publishes a plan to end slavery. The first known Jewish child born in Florida is Virginia Myers in Pensacola in 1822. Raphael Jacob Moses opens a store in Tallahassee. He later becomes a lawyer and practices in Apalachicola. In 1841 David Levy Yulee, the son of Moses Elias Levy, helps to write Florida’s Constitution. He is elected the first U.S. Senator from Florida in 1845 and the first Jew to serve in the U.S. Senate (1845-1851; 1855-1861). He organizes the Florida Railroad Company (1858). In 1850 Philip P. Dzialynski arrives in Jacksonville. This is the longest-continuing Jewish family in Florida. In 1857 the first-known Jewish boy, George Dzialynski, is born in Florida and the first Jewish cemetery is established in Jacksonville. A few prominent men of Florida and their accomplishments includes Judah P. Benjamin
JACKSONVILLE’S JEWISH HISTORY
from Louisiana who served as attorney general, secretary of state and secretary of war for the Confederacy (1861-1865); Dr. Louis Oppenheimer (1890) who established the local school system; and cousins Morris Dzialynski of Jacksonville and Herman Glogowski of Tampa who served as mayors of their cities (1880s). By the 1900s other Jewish men established themselves in prominence in Florida; David Sholtz begins his term as governor of Florida (1933-1936), Admirial Ellis N. Zacharias of Jacksonville, chief of naval intelligence, breaks the Japanese code in the 1940s, leading to the U.S. victory in the Pacific. Mitchell Wolfson serves as mayor of Miami Beach (1943), the first of 15 Jewish mayors in that city. Marshall Warren Nirenberg of Orlando receives the Nobel Prize in Medicine and Physiology for deciphering the genetic code (1968). By this time, Jacksonville had a population of over 5,000 Jews. Next month, we will write about Jacksonville’s growth.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
Several successful events have been held throughout this past year for local Holocaust survivors and their families, thanks to the dedicated volunteers who make it happen. Plans are under way for a social event in July. The Holocaust Survivor Services at JFCS are made possible
in part due to funding through the Claims Conference. Many people are unaware that home health services are absolutely free for survivors. Anyone interested in learning more about these quarterly social programs, or information about the services offered, should call Naomi at Jewish Family & Community Services, (904) 394-5777.
COMMUNITY NEWS Planning committee members Hilda Warfield, Bob Fischer, Beth Goldman, Naomi Mirensky, Irene Jaffa and Rose Goldberg meet to plan their summer event.
Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU
Bat Mitzvah Comes of Age
Dine with the Jax Jewish Singles By Jax Jewish Singles
Come join the Jax Jewish Singles for Sunday lunch at Trent’s Seafood across from NAS Jax. It’s casual dining and reason-
ably priced. No frills, just good food, good company and good conversation. Contact Francine for details at 221-8061 or email francine. smith@comcast.net.
Judith Kaplan Eisenstein at the 70th anniversary of her bat mitzvah, 1992. Archives, Reconstructionist Rabbinical College.
Holocaust survivor social event set By Jewish Family & Community Services
page 7
www.jewishjacksonville.org
Thru September 15, 2013
On Saturday morning, March 18, 1922, Judith Kaplan, daughter of Rabbi Mordecai M. Kaplan, became the first American girl to mark her bat mitzvah during a public worship service. Learn the stories of nearly 100 b'not mitzvah, including many Florida girls and women. A touring exhibition presented by the National Museum of American Jewish History and Moving Traditions. Sponsored in part by Congregation Beth Jacob and the Robert Arthur Segall Foundation.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Jewish American Heritage Month kicks off May 5 By Jewish Museum of Florida
The Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU, the only museum dedicated to the story of 250 years of Florida Jewish heritage, arts and culture, is proud to announce May is Jewish American Heritage Month, a national commemoration of the contributions that American Jews have made to the fabric of the nation’s history, culture and society. The 2013 observance will be held at the museum at 2 p.m. May 5. Jewish American Heritage Month was initiated by JMOFFIU and enacted by the 109th Congress. This year’s national theme focuses on American Jews in Entertainment. An enlightening presentation by Professor Stephen Whitfield of Brandeis University and Marcia Jo Zerivitz, founding executive director of the Jewish Museum of Florida, will explore how 2 percent of the population has had such a huge impact on the nation’s popular culture. Immigrant Jewish entrepreneurs and their sons, like Sam Goldwyn, Jack and Harry Warner, Louis B. Mayer, were integral to the creation of Hollywood. Jews were once the heads simultaneously of the three major American television networks: William
Paley at CBS, David Sarnoff at NBC and Leonard Goldenson at ABC. Jews have been writers, directors, producers, composers and performers, even clowns in the entertainment industry. “The arrival of over 2 million Jews from Eastern Europe a century ago coincided with the emergence of mass entertainment in the United States,” said Whitfield. “This was not entirely a coincidence, as the energies and dynamism of the newcomers and their children were unleashed in the popular arts because so few barriers to entry existed, and because a novel path of upward mobility became available. The result was a fresh way of forging the national identity and a vehicle for making a diverse society more unified.” Whitfield’s lecture will describe how this combination played itself out in the birth of the Hollywood studios and in the contribution of Jews to the treasury of American humor. Whitfield holds the Max Richter Chair in American Civilization at Brandeis University, where he has taught since 1972. A native of Houston who grew up in Jacksonville, he earned a B.A. from Tulane, a master’s degree from Yale and a doctorate in American
history from Brandeis. He has served as visiting professor of many prominent universities and is the author of eight books, including, most recently, In Search of American Jewish Culture, and
numerous scholarly articles. The free program is co-sponsored by the JMOF-FIU, Jewish Community Relations Council of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation and Jewish Federation
of Broward County, Community Relations Committee. For more information on JAHM and the national 2013 observance, please visit www. jahm.us.
Wishing a Happy Shavuot to all of our friends in the Jewish community. We sincerely regret the inadvertent conflict with our annual Humanitarian awards Dinner.
“Mistakes are the growing pains of wisdom.” – WILLIam JOrDaN
Artist Series announces Broadway season By The Artist Series
Experience Broadway with the Artist Series’ 2013-2014 Five-Show Broadway in Jacksonville Season, which features the Jacksonville debuts of Flashdance - The Musical, Blue Man Group, War Horse, Memphis, and Million Dollar Quartet, plus the return engagement of our Season Special, Mamma Mia. Flashdance - The Musical will be held Dec. 10-15; Blue Man Group, Jan. 21-26, 2014; War Horse, Feb. 18-23, 2014; Memphis, March 18-23, 2014; Million Dollar Quartet, April 22-27, 2014; and Mamma Mia! Oct. 18-19, 2013. Season tickets to the Artist
Series’ 2013-2014 Five-Show Broadway in Jacksonville Season are on sale now with five-show package prices starting at $130. Season ticket prices vary depending on the show time, day of the week, and seating location. A renewal order form has been mailed to current Artist Series subscribers, allowing them to confirm or upgrade their seats. Current subscribers can renew by calling (904) 442-BWAY (2929) or 1-888-860-BWAY, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. New subscribers can order their season tickets by calling (904) 442-BWAY (2929) or 1-888-860-BWAY. The Artist Series’ website is www.artistseriesjax.org.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
page 9
www.jewishjacksonville.org
COMMUNITY NEWS
UCF opening Google-inspired Hillel Center By University of Central Florida
Responding to a continuing surge in its Jewish student population, the University of Central Florida is preparing to open a new 20,000-square-foot Hillel facility, which has been uniquely designed to be a center for creativity, social action, student leadership development and Jewish activities. With more than 6,000 Jewish undergraduate students, UCF has the second largest Jewish student population of any public university in the United States. Increasing demand for Jewish student services led Central Florida Hillel to plan its new facility, which is
scheduled to open in August 2013 on the ground floor of UCF’s newly constructed NorthView complex. “The new Hillel facility will add an exciting new dimension to Jewish campus life at UCF,” said Hank Katzen, chairman of the Board of Directors of Central Florida Hillel. “Beginning in August, we will finally have a destination that is designed to meet our diverse programs and needs, while appealing to the individual lifestyles and interests of our students.” UCF’s Jewish students will benefit from a 21st Century Google-inspired Hillel, designed
The British burned sought documents
to tap into student creativity and to empower students to create their own visions of Jewish community on campus. The facility will feature a modern theater, game room, café, lounge areas, meeting rooms and various other amenities. NorthView’s upper floors will feature ultra-modern, upscale housing for 600 UCF students. Centrally located directly across the street from Bright House Stadium, NorthView combines convenient campus access with an array of sophisticated amenities and satisfying social opportunities unparalleled by any other housing option at UCF.
Steven J. Grossman to be honored at Bnai Zion Foundation dinner By Bnai Zion Foundation
Panel of scholars, from left, Rabbi Merrill Shapiro, Charles Tingley, Diana Reigelsperger Miller and Professor John Diviney By Jewish Historical Society
In 1586, again in 1668 and yet again in 1702, British raids on St. Augustine led to the burning of records of births, marriages and deaths in the oldest city’s archives. A group of scholars gathered at Flagler College in a public forum arranged by the St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society indicated that these records would certainly be critical in identifying early Marranos, Conversos, New Christians and Crypto-Jews and their descendants. The scholars, including Flagler College professor John Diviney, doctoral candidate Diana Reigelsperger Miller and St. Augustine Historical Society Senior Researcher Charles Tingley felt there was little choice but to seek out records of Florida activities in Havana, Cuba, and among the site of Inquistional tribunals established
in Lima, Peru; in Mexico City in 1569 in Cartagena de Indias; in present day Colombia, established in 1610. The only other available sources are among the archives general of the Indies in Seville, Spain, and among records held by the Vatican. The work of the St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society has been buoyed by recent comments from Florida International University Professor Abe Lavender, editor of the Journal of Spanish, Portugese and Italian Crypto-Jews who said, “There were most certainly descendants of Crypto-Jews in Colonial St. Augustine. The task before us is to document their presence!” Those interested in the work of the society are urged to contact the group at SAJHS1565@gmail. com or visit www.staugustinejewishhistoricalsociety.wordpress. com.
Jacksonville
Jewish News Grow your business If you want to reach a demographic with a higher than average household income and education, the Jewish News is your connection. To advertise, contact Diane Rodgers at 448-5000 x 212 or jjn@jewishjacksonville.org
The Bnai Zion Foundation (bnaizion.org), which supports humanitarian projects in Israel that help the less-fortunate members of Israeli society through a variety of medical, educational, social service and cultural programs, will present its Distinguished Humanitarian Award to Steven J. Grossman, chief executive officer/executive director of the Jacksonville Aviation Authority, at a dinner at the Jacksonville Jewish Center on Monday, June 3. Proceeds from the dinner will be used toward construction of a new protected underground emergency department at the Bnai Zion Medical Center
Steven Grossman in Haifa, Israel. The Medical Center, a major urban hospital serving Israel’s northern communities, was on the frontlines of the Second Lebanon War and
treated hundreds of wounded citizens. Because of the constant threat of attack from the north, a new facility fortified against nuclear, biological and chemical attack is an urgent priority of the hospital. Grossman and his wife Linda recently visited Israel and, while touring the Medical Center, reaffirmed their support of this project. Co-chairpersons of the dinner are A. L. Kelly, Jacksonville Aviation Authority; Mark Lamping, Jacksonville Jaguars, LLC; Jerry Mallot, JAX USA Partnership; and John R. Schmitt, TD Bank. For further information please call Marc Nadelman at 212-7251211, ext. 6258.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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Discovering learning at the DuBow Preschool
EDUCATION
Block Gan’s garden blooms are especially interesting to students. Even the administrative faculty members have letters. Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool Director Theresa Levy has the letter U plot. “I try to take one of the more challenging letters,” Theresa claimed. “It took some searching to find a plant that started with that letter, but Trads was a great help. They had one potted umbrella grass plant that was part of a water display. I love the umbrella grass because it reminds me of Israel. I noticed
By Block Gan
Teachers, students and families all enjoy participating in gardening at the Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool. Students enjoy working in the organic school garden growing vegetables, fruits, flowers and green plants. The school’s award-winning ABC Garden is a unique way to teach children about horticulture and literacy. Each class is responsible for several letters of the alphabet, and unique plants
it growing wild everywhere during our recent JCA trip.” Theresa gets busy in her office and doesn’t water her umbrella grass as often as she needs, but the students are eager to help. All she has to do is mention that her letter U plant is thirsty. Students search for the designated letter painted artistically above the plant and run back and forth from the barrel to the plant providing plenty of water, while using their growing gross motor skills.
JCA’s Block Gan presents early childhood symposium By Block Gan
By SHEREEN CANADY DuBow Preschool
Recently Greg Nagel, Discovery Learning specialist at the DuBow Preschool, took the kids on a micro-hike to discover the wonderful, small world around us. They searched for little bugs and found ants, yellow aphids and butterflies. They learned about earthworms and how they benefit our gardens. The earthworm homes we built are teaming with life. The children help feed the worms by opening the lid to the worm capsules and putting in fruit and vegetable peels after snack each day. Our spring garden is thriving in rich soil and with the help of our worm friends. Mr. Greg meets with each class twice a week. His experience and knowledge gained as a children’s
museum programming director, Boom Science creator, and St. John’s Riverkeeper has made a huge impact on the amount of science that is integrated into our daily curriculum. “Children learn best by doing, and discovering the wonders of the world around them,” states Greg. The children attend a science class each week in our Discovery Studio. They spend time with Greg and their teachers in the garden, on the grounds of the Jacksonville Jewish Center, and in their classrooms each week experimenting, investigating and discovering. They get excited watching the Canadian baby geese that have been resting by the JJC pond grow. All our kids are waiting anxiously and making daily observations of the duck and chicken egg incubators. We can’t wait for the babies to arrive.
The JCA’s Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool’s 5th Annual Early Childhood Symposium, “Play: Where Learning Begins,” takes place on Tuesday, Oct. 15, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. and promises to be an exciting and stimulating evening with expert national presenters, workshops, kosher dinner and more. The JCA’s award-winning,
Most parents are aware that babies throw temper tantrums because they are frustrated. But fewer parents are aware that there is a way to reduce the number of tantrums while at the same time stimulating their child’s intellectual development. When babies have the ability to communicate their needs, it is believed to increase their self-esteem and confidence level. Many also believe that it strengthens the bond between parent and child. In addition, there are a significant percentage of babies who speak earlier when sign language is used with them. Dale Schemer first became aware of the benefits of using sign language when she began using it with her class of autistic students. “Their response was amazing and made communication so much easier.” Many years later Dale and Wendy Pozin spent over a year researching and developing a program that would have the same benefits for babies and their families. With their combined 30 years of educational knowledge in addition to their practical experience of raising seven sons between them, Dale and Wendy have developed a program that meets the needs and enhances the lives of parents and their young children. Wendy and Dale are proud of
their many successful graduates. “Time and time again, parents call or email us to tell us of their child’s newest signs and how helpful it has been. Most of our babies have some signs when they leave the class, but it is wonderful to hear how the parents continue to use the skills that we’ve taught them.” The Jacksonville Jewish Center and Baby Sign-A-Long will once again offer this outstanding program to the community. These classes are designed to resemble a Mommy and Me atmosphere, by incorporating signing, dancing, singing, reading and playing games. They integrate group time, center time and individual time. Wendy and Dale provide signing techniques in each class to assist with making signing easier. Plus, they do a parent reality check, so parents can share their experiences from week to week, helping each other, as well as creating supportive relationships in the process. Classes meet at 9:30 a.m. for six weeks beginning Tuesday, April 30, at the DuBow Preschool. Ages: 6 month-18 months (pre-verbal). Cost $125 and includes: signing book, flash cards, weekly hand-outs and techniques. To find out more please visit them at: www.babysign-a-long.com or call the DuBow Preschool office at 268-4200 ext. 143 to register.
with others. They enhance their creativity and develop leadership skills and healthy personalities. Play in early childhood is the best foundation for success in school. Attend this event; be inspired to experience the power of play, to reflect, to grow, and to gain valuable insights. For more information or to be added to our mailing list, contact Rochelle at 904 -730-2100 ext. 259 or rochelle. golomb@jcajax.org.
Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool hosts international menu Students collaborated to construct a cosmopolitan menu with dishes from Mexico, Italy and France. The first course included chips, guacamole and salsa. The main course was pasta and marinara sauce, and to end
By MOLLY SWEET Block Gan
In late March, Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool hosted the first International Foods Day celebration.
things on a sweet note, delightful chocolate meringue cookies were served. In April, the students studied Israel and celebrated another International Foods Day with Israeli-style cuisine.
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Baby Sign-A-Long class builds confidence By DuBow Preschool
NAEYC-accredited Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool hosts this event, drawing over 150 people annually. Children’s learning begins with exploration, discovery, and curiosity. In other words, play. Play and learning are interwoven through play. Children learn about themselves, their environment, people and the world around them. As they play, children learn to solve problems and to get along
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page 11
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PASSOVER 2013
YLD hosts Passover events
By JEANINE HOFF
Young Leadership Division Director
YLD’s Mix-n-Mingle Celebrates Passover
The Young Leadership Division held a Passover Seder for members of the community catered by Margo’s Catering. MixN-Mingle co-chairs Ben Marsh and Nicole Sena helped organize the event, celebrated on the first night of Passover. The evening was a true representation of our
Mix-N-Mingle members as it was attended by single, engaged, married, affiliated, and unaffiliated members of the community.
Pre-Passover Pizza Playdate a success
The sun was shining bright and the weather simply perfect as the youngest members of our Jewish community gathered on the Thursday before Passover to play and eat their fill of pizza during our annual Pre-Passover
family event. The after-school playdate was planned as a way to get the children in the community to meet, have fun, and celebrate before the holiday. Families from the JCA, Dubow Preschool, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School and Torah Academy as well as the children of clergy members from The Temple, Jacksonville Jewish Center and Etz Chaim were all in attendance. Young Leadership’s Gabby Bubis chaired the funfilled event.
More Passover scenes
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Left: Beth El The Beaches Synagogue second-grade class gets ready for Passover. Above: Beth El’s Annual Passover Candy Seder
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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PASSOVER 2013
Block Gan students learn about Passover By MOLLY SWEET Block Gan
“Pharaoh! Let my people go!” boomed the voice of Moses over a sea of preschool heads, jaws agape. This was the scene during the Michele Block Gan Yeladim Model Passover Seder. Our youngest students celebrated the rites and rituals of the holiday with a traditional Seder meal led by Rabbi Joshua Lief.
Some, celebrating Passover for the first time, ate foods that might not have otherwise tempted their palates. “Take your parsley and dip it in your salt water . . . and eat it. Eat that salty parsley,” directed Rabbi Lief. The children sang songs and listened intently to the Passover story. In addition to the Seder meal, Michele Block Gan Yeladim teddy bear, junior kindergarten and kindergarten students enjoyed a little dinner theatre. Former JCA
At right: JCA Executive Director Myron Flagler, left, as Moses, and former JCA President Ken Jacobs, as Pharoah, entertained students at the Michele Block Gan Yeladim Model Passover Seder. Below: Michele Block Gan Yeladim kindergartners Abbie Marie Petersen and Owen Gutovitz took part in the preschool’s Model Passover Seder.
President Ken Jacobs and JCA Executive Director Myron Flagler joined the scene to delight the students with their dramatic interpretations of Pharaoh and Moses as Morah Karen, the Judaics
resource teacher, led the students. Frogs and bug plagues were flying and everyone was immersed in experiencing the story. For students of Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool, the Pass-
over Seders were an opportunity to appreciate Jewish culture, as well as an occasion for multigenerational interaction and sense of community.
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By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
The Martin J. Gottlieb Day School participated in its own Marty’s Run during physical education classes the last week in March. Marty’s 5K Run was developed to raise money for Memories of Love, a foundation that creates joyful memories for children whose parents have a life-threatening illness. Memories of Love, with the help of partners and sponsors, sends an entire family for five days to Orlando for a fun-filled vacation far removed from medical bills, therapy and hospital visits. Co-founded by Marty’s father, Mel Gottlieb and Henri Landwirth, this foundation is a legacy to the simplicity of a good man, who loved his family, his
Part of
country, lived a very short, but very full life and is remembered with love. Day School students reflected in class and wrote on a red heart the person they were running for, and later they posted the hearts to a bulletin board in the hallway. Some students ran for loved ones who passed away, some ran for ill family members, and some ran for Marty Gottlieb. MJGDS will be presenting a check to Memories of Love for $750 raised by the Knesset, the school’s student government. The students decided early in the school year that Memories of Love would be their tzedakah project for the year and have worked very hard to raise the money. To view a short trailer of the day, go to www.vimeo. com/62991774.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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EDUCATION
Student artwork exhibited at festival
Music class
By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
The 45rd annual Mandarin Art Show took place on March 30-31 featuring over 100 artists. Each year, one of the most popular events at the show is the Children’s Art Show featuring artwork from students from as many as 20 area public and private schools. The children’s work is judged, and ribbons are given out for honorable mention, best in show and first to third places in different age categories. The Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, for many years, has done well at this show. Under the direction of Shana Gutterman, MJGDS art teacher, students are using different medians in art class such as paint, wire, wood and clay. In addition to the hands-on projects, Gutterman also teaches art appreciation, and students study artists such as Picasso, Monet, Khalo and more. This year, Jett Scharf, MJGDS first grader, won third place for best in show; Daisy Handmaker, second grader received an honorable mention for grades K-2; Zoe Mail, fifth grader, received an honorable mention for grades 3-5; and Emily Teitelbaum, fourth grader, received an honorable mention for grades 3-5. To see more artwork from the different classes at MJGDS, go to www.mjgds.org and look under the Art Class Blog.
Skate night
Ben Setzer and son, George, skate at the Galinsky Academy PTA-sponsored skate night.
Shalom Baby: bringing moms together By DuBow Preschool
Last month many moms, babies and toddlers came together for some fun, friendship and learning. We were excited to welcome a few new friends and to see our regulars. Each time we sing, dance, celebrate Shabbat, and play in our beautiful DuBow Preschool classroom. The parenting topics last month were: “How to Tame a Tantrum” and “Reading to your Child.” We were thrilled to have Ilene Schinasi read a PJ Library story and share literacy tips with us. Upcoming playdates are scheduled for: May 10, May 24 and June 7. We welcome all caregivers and children ages 3 – 36 months of age. Shalom Baby is a free playgroup open to all Jewish families. We are also excited to be offering a new class for parents and babies. A Baby Sign-A-Long class is beginning at the DuBow Preschool. For more details about all our wonderful programs, call our office at 268-4200 ext. 143. We hope you will join us.
First graders at MJGDS work together on the Orff instruments in music class.
DuBow Preschool scores an A By DuBow Preschool
Each year the children leaving the voluntary pre-kindergarten program at the DuBow Preschool are tested within the first 30 days of kindergarten in letter recognition, phonemic awareness, early math and literacy skills. Year after year our students have scored in the top percentiles for all Florida schools. Once again, our students scored an A. We are thrilled! Our VPK curriculum is designed to prepare children for an academically rigorous kindergarten. We are pleased to offer a tuition-free, pre-kindergarten education to our community. Our program is a mixture of loving guidance, fun, goal-driven learning, time for social interaction and make-believe, and character
building. We have a beautiful school, outfitted with the latest technology and resources. The children enjoy weekly music, Jewish studies, P.E., and science classes. Our children leave the DuBow Preschool confident, curious and with a love for learning. Children who are enrolled in our full-day preschool program (8:30-3:30) also enjoy extra playtime, individualized academic activities, and a daily resource class at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School led by their specialty faculty. The resource classes include art studio, fit kids, music and movement, clergy fun, and library. We have six spots left in VPK. There are a few openings in our 1-, 2- and 3-year-old classes. For information, contact Shereen Canady at 268-4200 ext. 143.
Community University a day to remember at DuBow By SHEREEN CANADY DuBow Preschool
This year the DuBow Preschool was proud to host a great lineup of community educators to make this event amazing for our youngest members of the community. Preschoolers from area Jewish preschools and synagogues came together for a day of learning and to attend a BIG birthday party for Israel. Our morning was filled with great activities including: Israeli dancing, storytelling, an outdoor Jewish symbols hunt,
arts and crafts, and cooking. The kids made delicious Israeli couscous, and hummus, using mint from our garden. The morning culminated with a big preschool Yom Ha’Atzmaut parade and celebration. The children were dressed up in the blue and white hats, and necklaces they made. Robin Morris and Michelle Margol led the group in dance and song. The morning was fabulous, and having educators from Torah Academy and TIR made it extra special. Many of the families chose to stay for the Praying for Peace concert. It was a truly magical day.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
Exercising, growing veggies, staying healthy
EDUCATION Jewish Family & Community Services and the Zimmerman Family Foundation presents...
COSMIC
By DuBow Preschool
The health of our children is a priority at the DuBow Preschool. Healthy teachings are woven into our daily activities and lessons. How do we do this? Organic garden: We just planted our spring garden and soon we’ll enjoy many veggies. Our favorite crops recently have been carrots, zucchini, basil and lettuce. We also learned a great deal after visiting Trad’s Nursery and through our master gardener, Bubee Mimi. Organic fruit served daily: We have a special partnership with Native Sun who helps supply our delicious fruit each week. We are thrilled with the variety of fruit our kids are eating: raspberries, kiwi, pears, tangerines and more. Daily music and movement and weekly physical education classes help strengthen our mus-
Chance Drawings Gift Certificates and various items for the whole family
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cles, and help with coordination and gross motor development. Everyone loves when Coach Rebecca is in the house. Cooking nutritious snacks: We love cooking and use many of the veggies we grow to make snacks such as zucchini bread, pesto dipping sauce and salad.
Graduates accepted to schools of their choice By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
All of the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School eighth-grade students were accepted to multiple high school programs, all of the highest quality. MJGDS is excited to announce the following news: Ryan M. has chosen to attend Stanton IB, Joey
P. has chosen to attend Mandarin AICE, Aaron K. has chosen to attend Paxon IB, Julia K. has chosen to attend Stanton IB, Rachel S. has chosen to attend Stanton IB and Avichai L. has chosen to attend Paxon IB. Mazel tov to these students and their families on their great academic achievements.
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Help us fill our grocery cart by bringing non-perishable food items for the for JFCS’ Winn-Dixie Emergency Food Pantry
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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SYNAGOGUE NEWS
Center Religious School holds consecration services
the Impact of [women]
immeasurable
the Impact of [Hadassah]
endless
This Mother’s Day, honor all the women in your life and make an everlasting impact. Give a Life Membership for $212. Enroll at www.hadassah.org/life or call 800.664.5646 By Jacksonville Jewish Center
The Bernard & Alice Selevan Religious School invites the community to two important congregational events this month. On Friday, May 10, we share our consecration service, the celebration of the end of the first year of formal Jewish education. A family dinner, by reservation only, will follow. Mazel tov to our young students and their families: Danny Bomser, son of Ilene and David Bomser; Dante Gaviglio, son of Carla Nott and Ariel Gaviglio; Joshua Katz, son of Jen and Hary Katz ; Abigail Rotenberg, daughter of Hilary and Marc Rotenberg; Felice Shoshan, son of Lisa Ratta-Shoshan and David Shoshan; Joel Silverstein, son of Maura and Alex Silverstein; Sara Wasserman, daughter of Marte and Paul Wasserman; Landon Wawzynski, son of Laura Zuck-
erberg and Michael Wawzynski; and Lailah Wiener, daughter of Matthew Wiener. On Friday evening, May 17, the Religious School graduation ceremony will take place. Because the eight-grade program will be moved to MAKOM Hebrew High School next year, both seventh and eighth graders will be officially promoted this month. Students from these two classes will be leading the Friday evening Shabbat services, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Registration is now open for 2013-2014. All forms and information may be found on the website at www.basrs.org under “Registration.” Special: Register and pay in full before July 15 to get last year’s tuition rates. For more information, please contact Lois Tompkins, principal, at ltompkins@basrs.org or call the office at 268-4200, ext. 145.
This offer is valid January 1-December 31, 2013. A portion of the Life Membership enrollment fee is allocated for a subscription to Hadassah Magazine. In keeping with IRS regulations, membership dues/enrollment fees are not considered to be tax-deductible contributions. ©2013 Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc. Hadassah is a registered trademark of Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc.
Center holds food fight
Nathan Sandler, AgeWell patient
Transforming the lives of seniors. For Nathan, it’s being able to talk with ease about his issues, having his medications adjusted and getting back to enjoying friends and family. For Betty, it’s strengthening her wrist so she can keep writing her memoirs. For Dad, it’s regaining his balance so he can live safely on his own. At Baptist AgeWell Center for Senior Health, we’re innovating care of older adults by listening to their goals and treating the entire person. So they can age well, By Jacksonville Jewish Center
The month-long food fight between the Jacksonville Jewish Center Sisterhood and Men’s Club ended with an overwhelming abundance of food and toiletries for the Jewish Family & Community Services pantry, which was the ultimate winner in this food fight. The battle between the two clubs was nick and tuck until the
last minute when a push by the sisterhood put them over the top. Special thanks to all the congregants of the Center and the Jewish community for their unselfish support of the food fight. The drive for food continues at the Center with the Operation Isaiah program, and we ask everyone to please continue to bring food to the Center, which is located at 3662 Crown Point Road.
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SYNAGOGUE NEWS
Temple Bet Yam’s Rabbi Goldman to retire By Temple Bet Yam
When Rabbi Mark and Dr. Meryl Goldman visited the congregation of Temple Bet Yam on a cold rainy weekend in February 2004, they had no desire to move to Florida. Rabbi Goldman had just retired as rabbi emeritus of Rockdale Temple, one of the two largest congregations in Cincinnati. Their visit was prompted by a phone call from a friend asking if the rabbi might be interested in visiting a small congregation in St. Augustine that was looking for a part-time rabbi. At the time, the rabbi admits, he knew painfully little about St. Augustine. What transpired that weekend was a bashert, defined by the rabbi as “the meant-to-be coincidences that are empowered by the divine.” It’s a word that Rabbi Goldman is passionate about. For members of the congregation, meeting Rabbi Mark and Doctor Meryl, as they are affectionately called, was not only a bashert, it was a perfect match. The feeling was mutual, as rabbi explains, “The absolute magnetism and radiant warmth, eagerness, enthusiasm and vitality of the congregants who were dynamically urging them to accept their invitation tipped the balance.” The Goldmans returned to Cincinnati and after many goodbye parties, testimonials and tears, they sold their home and left for a new life in St. Augustine. They had just crossed the Georgia border when they received a phone call from a member of the congregation telling them Hurricane Ivan was about to hit St. Augustine. So the road-weary Goldmans headed for Naples, where they rode out the storm with friends. When they were given the all clear, they returned to St. Augustine. Welcome to Florida! At that time in the Temple’s history, the congregation was sharing space with the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship - a partner-
Photo courtesy of Zach Thomas Photography ship that lasted for several years. Although the setting was different from the grandeur of Rockdale Temple in Cincinnati, the rabbi loved conducting services in the modest sanctuary. When a friend from Cincinnati came to visit he said, “Mark, you have a palace here because of the spirit that is ignited between you and the congregation.” It was something the rabbi never forgot. Soon, word of Rabbi Goldman spread. He was described as a “whirlwind in a suit,” always in motion. At every service he danced, he sang, he carried babies around - he was an entertainer. He also used every opportunity to teach. With his added talent of remembering everything about anyone he met, he made every visitor feel special. The congregation’s numbers began to grow, and it soon became apparent that they were running out of space. With the rabbi’s guidance, the Board of Directors started the process of locating land on which to build a temple. It seemed like the impossible dream, but four years ago, the congregation moved into their permanent home on Wildwood Drive. Since the rabbi’s arrival, the congregation has doubled in size, and quadrupled in diverse programming. The rabbi has officiated at countless B’nai mitzvahs,
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confirmations, baby namings, weddings, and, sadly, funerals. Through his encouragement, a choir was formed which has grown to 22 members. Rabbi Mark, a gifted musician, relates, “My mu-
sical side of the brain was nurtured by the evolution of the choir after I had been a solo team with the late Art Heilweil (the Temple’s maestro for many years).” Congregants marveled at the changes since the rabbi’s arrival. “He’s given us a real presence in the community.” “He’s integrated Judaism into real life events of today.” “He’s effectively shared the teachings and precepts of Judaism with people of other faiths.” “He’s given us a relevant spiritual path.” “He’s made music a joyful and integral part of the service.” “He has truly made our house of prayer a house for all people.” When Rabbi Mark was asked how he has changed since his arrival, he answered, “I became supremely myself with no holds barred in this extraordinary faith
community. My creative juices found fresh outlets for productive and meaningful expression.” Some of those included helping to design the building, and choosing the inscriptions over the Holy Ark and the front façade. He cites as his greatest achievements “the nurturing, nourishing, and sculpting, and the shared spiritual intimacy with the congregation who became my family and even journeyed to Israel with us. Additionally, I found fulfillment in creating and cementing interfaith dialogue and relationships, another lifelong passion.” Where would he like to see the congregation in ten years? “I would like to see them, “as we say in Judaism, “going from strength to strength, fertilizing all the gardens we have tilled and cultivated.”
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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COMMUNITY NEWS PRESIDENTS Continued from p. 1
grade, the Seminole in Jacksonville, the Gator in Gainesville. Football season is a real problem. Jan is happy to add two great sons to the family. Mark Green continues as president of Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida. Our Jewish Community Foundation is pleased to announce that Mark Green will be serving as president for an additional year. As a founding member of the board, Mark understands the significance of the work Foundation does. Through the Create a Jewish Legacy initiative, the Foundation is raising awareness of the need for leaving bequests and estate gifts to the Jewish Community Foundation for the benefit of the Jewish community. We are raising and growing endowment funds needed to ensure the financial strength of our Jewish agencies and synagogues. Mark has served as an active board member since Foundation’s inception in 1995. His service has included chairing the Grant Review/Allocations Committee and serving on the Development, Bylaws, Professional Advisory, Real Estate, Nominating, B’nai Tzedek Youth Philanthropy, and Create a Jewish Legacy Steering committees. For several years, he served as the designated partner representative for The Temple. Born in Albany, N.Y., Mark relocated to Jacksonville and attended public schools, received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida and his J.D. from Stetson University College of Law. A local attorney specializing in marital, family and criminal law at Dale, Bald, Showalter, Mercier & Green, P.A., Mark volunteers for the Jacksonville Area Legal Aid, was listed in “Who’s Who in America Law” in 2007 and named a Florida Super Lawyer in 2007, 2010, 2011 and 2012. Active on local community boards, Mark was past president of The Bridge of Northeast Florida and the Jewish Community Alliance. During his 16
years on the board of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville, Mark was recipient of the 2007 Joe P. Safer Community Service Award. He has returned to the Federation board as a member of the Executive Committee. Mark and his wife Nancy believe in Tikkun Olam and giving back. As the couple put it, “We want to leave the world a better place than we found it.” Mark Lodinger continues as president of River Garden Hebrew Home/Wolfson Health & Aging Center. He has served on the River Garden Home board since 1991 and served as chair of the River Garden Admissions board for the past seven years. Mark is also a member of the River Garden Senior Services board as well as the River Garden Foundation board. Mark spearheaded and cochairs the River Garden Classic Golf Tournament, which has raised over $900,000 since its inception 16 years ago. The tournament benefits The Albert Z. Fleet Geriatric Training Center at River Garden, a Florida licensed not-for-profit post-secondary school that provides academic training and skills for persons desiring to become certified nursing assistants. Mark is excited about the recently opened 10,000-squarefoot expansion and additional refurbishment of River Garden facilities to further develop outpatient therapy programs, adult day care and home health programs. He invites the community to visit River Garden and check out our beautiful new look. Lodinger is a well-respected insurance planner, with knowledge of a wide range of financial products. He also advises on estate planning and business continuity strategies. He is a member of Congregation Ahavath Chesed, the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, and serves on the board of the Jacksonville Jewish Foundation. Mark and his wife, Jill, were recently married in Santa Fe, N.M., in a Western-themed ceremony. Mark’s daughter, Morgan, recently married Leo Roci, and is enrolled in physician
assistant school at Berry College in Miami. Mark’s son, David, is graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in building construction, and will be joining the Stellar Company immediately after graduation. Francine Trager Kempner continues as president of Jewish Family & Community Services. Kempner is a Jacksonville native, having graduated from Hendricks Avenue Elementary School, Landon High School and The University of Florida. Married to Jim Kempner, they have two children and four grandchildren. Daughter Merideth McEvoy lives in Ft. Lauderdale with her children, Avery and Madison; son Peter lives in Brooklyn, N.Y., with wife, Simone, and children Marley and Seeger. Francine’s career started in retail working in her family’s business, the Pic N’ Save stores, for 26 years. In 1998 Francine and Jim approached the agency with the idea of hosting a dinner to benefit the Feed A Needy Neighbor Program. Francine and Jim hosted dinners to benefit FANN for many years, and friends of theirs kept asking to be invited back as the evening was so much fun. Not only would the Kempners get involved with FANN through these dinners, they have also continued to be one of our major contributors to make sure that everyone who came through our doors for assistance would not go away hungry. In addition to serving on the board of Jewish Family & Community Services for over 10 years, she has also served on the River Garden Gala Committee and as the River Garden Gala chair in 2004. Francine is a member of the board of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and has served on the executive committee and as treasurer in 2010. Francine also served as campaign chair and president of the Federation Women’s Division from 2005 to 2009. Francine is also a member of the Women’s Giving Alliance for the Community Foundation of Jacksonville and Congregation Ahavath Chesed.
ADULT EDUCATION
Choosing as expressed in The Book of Ruth By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
On Shavuot at Temple, we will read two traditional texts: the Ten Commandments from the Book of Exodus in the Torah and the Book of Ruth from later in the Bible. The story of receiving the commandments out loud from God at Mount Sinai gave everyone present the chance to feel involved and connected in the covenantal experience of connecting with the divine, a connec-
May 23
7 p.m. — JCA Film Series at the JCA. The JCA presents a free showing of “Liberty Heights.” The year is 1943, a season of dramatic social flux that is explored through the eyes of a Jewish family,
tion we still value to this day. Ruth, on the other hand, tells a very personal story of a woman trying to decide with whom she would like to be, and a family wrestling with the implications of that decision. Join Rabbi Joshua Lief at 7 p.m. Monday, May 6, to explore this famous story of the first official Jew by choice, and to examine the role that choosing still plays in the modern experience of our faith. All are welcome and no prior knowledge is required. the Kurtzmans. Friendship, romance, rock ‘n’ roll, courage, racism, Cadillacs and Halloween; the Kurtzmans and America will never be the same. For more information, call Thelma Nied, 730-2100 ext. 227.
CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT
Religious School Teachers and Teaching Assistants The Temple Institute of Religion, Congregation Ahavath Chesed’s Religious School with classes from PK-12, is hiring religious school teachers and teaching assistants for the 2013/14 school year. Openings for vibrant and passionate teachers in Hebrew and Judaic Studies, teen leadership coordinator and specialists in art, cooking and music. Also needed are teaching assistants preferably with some Hebrew decoding skills. Contact the Religious School Director Ronni Ticker at rticker@ thetemplejacksonville.org or 904-733-7078.
Part-Time Assistant to the Director The Temple is seeking a Professional Educator to serve as parttime Assistant to the Director of the Religious School. Responsibilities include curriculum development, lesson planning, faculty support and communications. Experience teaching in a Jewish school is not required. Commitment to collaboration and teamwork are a must. 12 hours per week. Contact the Religious School Director Ronni Ticker at rticker@thetemplejacksonville. org or 904-733-7078.
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HUNGER DOESN’T
DISCRIMINATE. With millions still out of work, many people in our own community are forced to choose between paying the rent and putting food on the table. That’s why we’re, through Jewish Family & Community Services, not only running food pantries and meal programs, we’re also offering financial assistance to get people back on track. Today, more people are turning to us for assistance than ever before. Help us ensure that no one is turned away.
THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.
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page 20
President’s Corner:
Relief Act may affect donations
By Mark Green
Jewish Community Foundation
On Jan. 2, the president signed into law the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012. There are provisions in the act that may be of interest to those with charitable intent that make gifts to Jewish agencies and synagogues and other qualified charities. Charitable deductions are linked to tax rates. A new income tax rate of 39.6 percent was created for a single person with more than $400,000 of taxable income ($450,000 for married persons). If you fall into this and other higher tax brackets you may receive even greater tax savings from charitable deductions. Existing capital gains rates have been extended. But a new 20 percent rate has been implemented for those in the new 39.6 percent income tax bracket. Also, single persons with income in excess of $200,000 ($250,000 if married) will be subject to a 3.8 percent Medicare tax. Add the 20 percent capital gains rate to the 3.8% Medicare tax and the cumulative tax rate for this higher income group will be 23.8%. For donors 70 ½ and older Congress has extended the charitable IRA rollover. Donors may gift up to $100,000 of IRA assets before December 31, 2013. There are rules that govern qualified IRA rollover gifts. Contact a professional adviser familiar with the rules to ensure your gift is properly executed. Foundation is here to help. IRA rollover gifts may be made directly to the Jewish Community Foundation to create or add to existing endowment funds for causes you care about. IRA rollover gifts may not be made to donor advised funds, to create trusts, gift annuities or to private foundations. You may avoid capital gains taxes by donating appreciated assets to charities. Contact the Foundation to discuss charitable gift planning options including the following: donor advised funds, charitable remainder trusts, endowment funds for synagogues and agencies that will benefit the causes you care about in perpetuity, Creating your Jewish Legacy with gifts of appreciated assets, and more. Foundation is the planned giving resource for our Jewish agencies and synagogues and members of our Jewish community. We help you create a Jewish legacy plan that is meaningful to you and ensure that your intent is always honored. This material is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered tax or legal advice. Always consult your own qualified professional adviser before making any financial decisions.
Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Eye on the Jacksonville Jewish Center By Jewish Community Foundation
The following are excerpts from the video of Doris and Jeffrey Goldstein, presented during the Jan. 31 Create A Jewish Legacy Celebration Event. See the video and those of other members of the community along with event footage using the following link: http://jewishfoundationnefl.org/vblog/create-a-jewish-legacy-celebration-wishupon-a-shooting-star. Doris Goldstein remarked, “The Center is such a dynamic place. You look around and see generations together. You see extended families, families that have become entwined by marriage, and you see new people in the Goldstein’s wedding community who are embraced and welcomed. This nual middle school show. They were really makes Center a very vibrant special times in a warm and touching place. and vital place. I really enjoyed watching We are so glad we had the opportunity for our kids grow up in the Day School. We our children to grow up at the Center and in have some really fond memories of middle the day school.” school, in particular. It can be such an awk“We see those years as a way of ensuring ward age for kids. We recall Alisa dressed that our children will feel a responsibility as a Mitzvah clown and Max up on stage to oversee that legacy,” said Jeff. “… that as Big Bird, singing his heart out at the an-
they will want to ensure others have those opportunities as well. Having had those experiences, we hope, will keep them very much involved with the Jewish community.” In closing Doris added, “I think the biggest thing that anybody can do to secure the future of the Jewish community is just to show up. Be there at the events we have in the community... be a part of the community. Whatever part of this community excites you and interests you, make it part of your life, too. I would encourage others to make this legacy commitment because we didn’t get here in one generation. Resources that we have now for us and our children are here because other generations made sure that they were here. So it’s our responsibility to make sure these facilities, these institutions, the opportunities we have and more, will be there for the next generation of parents and their children.”
A message from Richard Sisisky, CJL chair By Jewish Community Foundation
You are probably contacted daily, weekly, monthly by universities, colleges, museums and hospitals about leaving something in your will to them. They’re all doing it, and we need to do it, as well. Planned giving is our dedicated focus at your Jewish Community Foundation. We are blessed to have many dedicated people involved with our community’s Create A Jewish Legacy initiative and on our synagogue and agency boards and committees. We all have hopes and dreams for the Jewish community. Kimberly and I do and so do over 500 of your friends and neighbors who have already declared their intent to include Jewish causes in their wills. Join us as we dream together of a bright Jewish future here in Jacksonville. Please remember the Jewish causes you care about in your will.
During our January CJL celebration event, guests heard those in the legacy videos talk about how easy it is to work with the Foundation, how anyone of any means can leave something to those Jewish causes most important to them. Foundation is here to help facilitate your goals. We are you. You are us. There is no difference. I always find it useful to think of Foundation as the planned giving branch office for the agencies, synagogues and Federation. Perhaps you are wondering, “How do I start the process?” You don’t have to know how much, you don’t have to know to whom, and you don’t even have to know how. You just have to know you want to do something. Just say you care, and we’ll be here to help you. If you’ve already signed a declaration, take the next step and make it a formal part of your estate plan. Just give us a call at the Foundation
Richard and Kimberly Sisisky and engage our professionals in discussions of how to take that next step. We’re here to help. A legacy is a big thing, but it’s not a complicated thing. Pick something that is meaningful to
you, create your legacy. Leave a lasting mark. Decide how you will be remembered. And let your legacy impact our community forever. Achieve your own philanthropic immortality.
Foundation hires new legacy program director By Jewish Community Foundation
The Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida welcomes Leslie Lewis Kirkwood as our community Create a Jewish Legacy program director. “I am excited and grateful to the Foundation board and CJL Steering Committee for this opportunity to serve our community,” Leslie remarked. “Our parents and grandparents envisioned a vibrant Jewish community with synagogues and agencies that would meet our religious and social needs. Their vision was realized through hard work, and they have left a remarkable legacy for us. I look forward to helping individuals and families expand and build upon this legacy for the benefit
Leslie Kirkwood of generations to come.” A third-generation Jacksonville resident, Leslie’s roots in our community are deep. Grandparents, Louis and Freida Paul, of blessed memory, met and married in Jacksonville almost 100 years ago and raised their
family here. Leslie’s parents, David (of blessed memory) and Phyllis Lewis, did, too. Following family tradition, Leslie and her husband, Rick, raised their children, Sarah and Jason, here as active, committed Jews. Leslie grew up at the Jacksonville Jewish Center then left for college and pursued an urban planning career. Since returning to Jacksonville in 1985, she has belonged to the Center, Beth El and The Temple and attended services at Beth Shalom and Etz Chaim. She enjoys and celebrates the rich diversity of Jewish tradition in Jacksonville. Through volunteerism Leslie demonstrates her belief in service to others and community. She is a life member of Hadassah, past NCJW Board Director,
a charter member of the JCA and proud of her involvement with the Remembering for the Future Community Holocaust Initiative. In 1991 Leslie and her husband Rick co-founded Urban Dynamics Corporation, their planning consultancy business. Leslie served as executive director of the Jacksonville Library Foundation and Gift of Life in America and spent eight years in municipal government planning and administration. “I am eager to join forces with the many dedicated individuals whose efforts have made CJL a tremendous success,” Leslie stated. “I look forward to working together to secure an enduring legacy of and for the Jewish community and our synagogues and agencies.”
JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA 2012 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $76,422
Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
www.jewishjacksonville.org
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JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE
Stories tell how JCA affects members’ lives By Jewish Community Alliance
JCA members tell, in their own words, how the agency has impacted their lives in a story/photo display in the Vandroff Art Gallery. JCA members, ranging in age from teenagers to 90, participated in the project. The 25 JCA stories, which is part of the JCA’s 25th Birthday Celebration, will be on display through May 30. Founding members of the JCA talk about how much the agency has grown over the years. Grandparents tell of their pride in seeing their grandchildren become part of the JCA through the Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool. Some members relate how the JCA helped them get through a personal crisis such as the death of a spouse. Others credit the JCA
with restoring their health through various exercise opportunities and fitness advice. A recurring theme is the multigenerational impact the JCA has had with members who grew up in the JCA now seeing their own children participating in preschool and other activities. And many members praise the JCA for fostering friendships, enhancing the Jewish experience and bringing together the entire Jacksonville community. The JCA Stories Committee of Debbie Banks-Kitay, Lois Chepnik, Joy Korman, Dinah Kossoff and Andrea Mail conducted the project. Shelly Hughes, JCA Theatre Department director and camping coordinator, took the photos. Special thanks to Reddi Arts for their photo board donation.
Block Gan offers summer fun By Jewish Community Alliance
Where can your child go this summer for exciting, wholesome, stimulating fun? Where can he/she play in the mud, collect bugs and pretend to be an entomologist, experiment with rockets and conduct science experiments, or slide down a huge water slide with friends? Ask Hoops, the JCA camp mascot. You will find out Camp Gan Yeladim and KinderCamp are the camps for your preschoolers. Hurry up and register, sessions are filling up quickly. For more information or a tour of our beautiful facility contact rochelle.golomb@jcajax.org.
JCA happenings JCA Summer Camp registration open
The Jewish Community Alliance is accepting registration for Summer Camp 2013. Summer Camp meets for four two-week sessions: June 17-28, July 1-12, July 15-26 and July 29-Aug. 9. Theatre Camp has two sessions: June 17-July 12 and July 15-Aug. 9. JCA Summer Camp combines fun activities, a fabulous facility and top-notch staff (the camp directors have almost 50 years of combined camping experience at the JCA) to provide a safe, happy and positive camping experience that will create lifelong memories for the campers. Activities for children age 2 and up include swimming, arts and crafts, sports, music, dance and theater. Camp Habonim, a specialty camp for children in grades 3-6, allows campers to concentrate on a specialty in addition to normal camp activities. Specialties offered include flag football, chess, horseback riding, pottery, basketball, cooking, design, sailing, ice skating, fencing, tennis, soccer, golf, baseball, science and more. The JCA also offers pre- and post-camp Adventure Days from June 10 to 14 and Aug. 12 to 16. For more information, watch for the camp brochure in the mail, visit www.jcajax.org to view the brochure online or call 730-2100 ext. 252.
A weight-loss journey
Four years and 133 pounds later – join Karen Appelbaum, personal trainer, and her trainer/ mentor, Eric Diggs, as they take you through her amazing weightloss journey on Tuesday, May 7, at 7 p.m. This program is free for JCA members and $5 for nonmembers.
Israeli salad making
Join us for a great evening of salad making/eating with our very own salad queen, Mazal Spalter. Mazal will show you how to whip up tasty salads in no time flat. This program will be from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Monday, May 20. The fee is $10 for JCA members and $15 for nonmembers. Registration required by May 13.
Let’s wrap – wire wrap, that is
Join us for a fun-filled evening with jewelry designer Rhonda Stevens and learn how to use the wire wrapping technique to make beautiful jewelry. All materials included for this program that will be from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, May 30. The fee is $20 for JCA members and $30 for nonmembers. Registration required by May 22.
Keeping that healthy glow
Join Dr. Robert Brown of North Florida Dermatology as he shares the key to healthy skin throughout the years. This program will be from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 2. It’s free for JCA members and $5 for nonmembers.
Caring for your aging pet
Let Dr. Craig Sandler of Lakewood Animal Clinic show you how to care for your aging pet to ensure that he or she lives a long, healthy life. This program will be from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28. It’s free for JCA members and $5 for nonmembers.
The magic pill
Vitamins, supplements and prescription medications are readily prescribed by health practitioners, but do they really work and are they the best things for you? Join JCA nutritionist Helen Sollee for this eye-opening discussion at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22. The fee is $5 for JCA members and $8 for nonmembers. Registration required by May 17.
Behind the scenes at the Jacksonville Zoo
Join us for an exciting day of exploration at the Jacksonville Zoo with a guided tour through the wild African plains. Fee includes park admission and tour. Lunch is Dutch treat. Attendees should meet at the zoo entrance at 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, May 9. The fee is $25 for JCA members and $30 for nonmembers. Registration required by May 1.
Herb gardening 101
Our special friend, George De Marino, returns to share another of his many special interests with us. Herb gardening is the topic of the day. We will learn about popular everyday herbs, planting herb gardens and more. Everyone will make a pot of herbs to take home and watch grow. A demonstration of homemade pesto made with George’s garden fresh basil will be whipped up for your tasting pleasure. Learn the proper way to cut and preserve fresh herbs and more. This program begins at noon on Wednesday, May 8. The fee is $2 for JCA members and $4 for nonmembers. Reservations due with the JCA registrar by May 1.
The great Jewish songbook
Join Hazzan Jesse Holzer from the Jacksonville Jewish Center for a Jewish songfest. He’ll sing and we’ll sing classic songs from the Bima to Broadway, from 2nd Avenue to Carnegie Hall, from America to Israel. Please let the JCA registrar know you will be attending this fabulous musical interlude at noon Tuesday, May 7. It is free for JCA members and $5 for nonmembers. Bagels will be served.
Culture mavens
The final Friday morning JSO coffee series concert for the season will be fabulous. The one-and-only John Williams will be conducting some of his most famous movie tunes and more. Meet in the JCA lobby at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 10. The fee is $28 for JCA members and $42 for nonmembers. Make your paid reservations by May 1 with the JCA registrar.
Sight and sound: eyes and ears
“Grandma, what big eyes you have. All the better to see you with, my dear. Grandma, what big ears you have. All the better to hear you with, my dear.” We all know how important our sight and sound are to our health and well-being. The fourth in the Health is Wealth Series
features specialists Dr. Stephen Wolchok, board certified in ophthalmology specializing in diseases and surgery of the eye, and Dr. Richard Beck, a board certified otolaryngologist and surgical expert of the ear, nose and throat. Join us at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 5, for this free program. As always, healthy treats will be served.
Tour of the Mussallem Galleries
Neither words or photographs can begin to capture the experience that you will find in the Mussallem Galleries. In an expansive, 90,000-square-foot gallery showroom, you will find an eclectic array of museum quality works of art, including oil paintings, watercolor and mixed media. In addition, there is an extensive collection of Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Continental and European objects of art. Members of the Mussallem family will be our tour guides. The tour begins at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, May 20, at the galleries, 5801 Philips Highway (at Philips Highway and Bowden Road). It is free for members and $5 for nonmembers. Reservations required by May 13. For more information, contact Thelma Nied at 730-2100 ext. 227 or Thelma. nied@jcajax.org.
JCA Makos summer swim team
Get out your swimsuits and caps because it’s River City Swim League season for the JCA Makos Swim Team. The team begins practice in May, during our Swim Team Registration Week, so make sure you register in advance because space will be limited. Our outstanding coaching staff is ready to help each swimmer accomplish his or her goals. All levels of swimmer are welcome. We have two options for registration; practice/meet and meet only (must be practicing with another swim team to qualify). Don’t miss out on a great summer program of fun, sun and swimming.
Private swim lessons
Learn to swim or learn to swim more efficiently. Our one-on-one
JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE 2012 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $181,000
private instruction for children, adults and seniors will lead you closer to your individual goal. A minimum of four 30-minute lessons is required. Per-lesson fee is $30 for JCA members and $45 for nonmembers. The JCA offers an eight-lesson special for $210 for JCA members and $315 for nonmembers.
Year-round Makos swim team
Our year-round Makos swim team emphasizes aerobic conditioning as well as technique in all competitive strokes. Register for two days (Monday and Wednesday) or four days (Monday Thursday). Ages 5 to 18 are eligible to join. The monthly fee for two days is $55 for JCA members and $82 for nonmembers; the monthly fee for four days is $70 for JCA members and $105 for nonmembers. The team also has a Sunday only option with fees of $55 for JCA members and $82 for nonmembers.
JCA Swim School
The JCA Swim School was developed for participants who seek a fun and safe environment to learn the art of swimming. Our indoor pool is heated to 84 degrees year-round. During the lessons, children will be introduced to breath control, kicking, safe entry into the pool and exit from the pool. As lessons progress, the focus will be on continued development of the basic swimming strokes and will continue until the child has completed all necessary skills to reach a higher level of swimming proficiency. For more information, call 730-2100 ext. 240.
904.730.2100 wwwjcajax.org
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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RIVER GARDEN SENIOR SERVICES
River Garden at 67: And the celebration continues Briefs What are your summer plans? By LESLIE HELD Volunteer Coordinator
Space is limited. Act now. Whether you are considering a career in physical therapy, nursing or need community service hours, we are encouraging you to consider applying for our Summer Teen Volunteer Program 2013. If you are at least 13 years of age, please feel free to request an application for consideration. Maturity and dependability are a must. We are looking to engage teens who have the ability to communicate effectively with residents by way of initiating conversation and who possess strong listening skills. The abilities to take initiative and work independently are desired attributes. River Garden would be a great place to spend your summer. We will be flexible in scheduling your hours to work around summer school and family vacations. Treat yourself to the River Garden experience. For additional information, please contact Leslie Held 904-886-8429 or lheld@ rivergarden.org.
If you suspect…
May is Better Hearing and Speech Month, the perfect time to communicate some important information about speech and swallowing. Untreated, these problems can limit you at home and work. Treatment to eliminate or minimize communication and swallowing problems is available. If you suspect a problem, call River Garden’s Therapy Center at 904886-8454 to schedule an appointment with speechlanguage pathologists Lynda Gridley and Sarah French.
Remember River Garden
When you wish to honor or memorialize your loved ones, please be sure you keep in mind the wonderful ways River Garden has served, and continues to serve, our Northeast Florida community. L’DOR V’DOR... from generation to generation Please send donations to: Development Department River Garden Hebrew Home 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32258 Or call 904-886-8432 Donations may also be made by visiting us online at rivergarden.org/donation. And, please remember River Garden and the Northeast Florida area Jewish community in your will.
From left: Ira Dushoff enjoys a rare moment to relax; face painting was one of the highlight activities of the day; and Don Romo proudly displays his plaque honoring him for years of service on the board.
Above: Delicious desserts, provided by the auxiliary, were served by Sharon Smith and Alice Sherman, while Tine Tadros kept them smiling.
By SKIP WILLBACH Director of Marketing
River Garden Hebrew Home celebrated its 67th year on Sunday, March 17. Once again, the weather was beautiful as approximately 450 members of the community joined together on the River Garden campus to celebrate Anniversary Day and the Annual Meeting. The event was chaired by Shari Shuman, Home Board member. Shari did an outstanding job of coordinating the activities of the day. The merriment was evident
At left: Martha and Fred Tromberg share a few laughs with Ron Elinoff. Above: Beach Street Boogie provides wonderful entertainment for everyone to enjoy. wherever you looked. Musical entertainment was provided by Beach Street Boogie, grills were ablaze as grill masters Marc Raitt and Art Sherman, headed by Judy and Ira Dushoff, cooked up hot dogs, hamburgers and veggie burgers. Of course, delicious desserts were prepared and served by River Garden Auxiliary. Sharon Smith and Alice Sherman were the auxiliary hostesses for the day. Children were delighted with so many activities: pony rides, train rides, playing in the bounce house, and being entertained by clowns, face painters and balloon
On behalf of all of River Garden… Michael Price and Mark Lodinger would like to thank all the sponsors, players, volunteers and donors of the 17th Annual River Garden Classic!
Title Sponsor Janne and Jody Brandenburg -
RIVER GARDEN 2012 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $179,132
sculptors. It was truly a child’s dream come true. In addition to the outdoor festivities, officers and trustees of River Garden Senior Services, River Garden Hebrew Home, River Garden Foundation, The Coves and The Albert Z. Fleet Geriatric Training Center were installed during the annual meeting. Don Romo was installed as a new member of the Senior Services board. New trustees named to the Home Board were Sharon Siegel Cohen and Michael
Paul. Five new board members; Debbie Buckland, Ken Jacobs, Bob Livingston, Adam Marko and Diane Rothstein; were named to the River Garden Foundation board; and Lois Schlesinger was installed as president of The Coves board. The day’s festivities concluded with auxiliary’s annual Tombola drawing, and Dr. Bruce and Sharon Witten won the grand prize. It was a wonderful afternoon for everyone. Thank you to all who shared in the celebration.
Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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www.jewishjacksonville.org
JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES
Thanks, Mom!
448-1933 www.jfcsjax.org
Briefs Save the date!
The next Block Family Food Challenge The Annual Block Family Food Challenge has begun and continues through May 31. Please give what you can and know, when you do, that all cash gifts to FANN during May will be doubled. Call (904) 394-5721 or you may donate online www.jfcsjax.org.
Foods of the month
The Winn-Dixie Emergency Food pantry at JFCS is an onsite food pantry that relies on the support of you - our caring community. We appreciate everyone who makes a cash donation (note: in May, your donation will be doubled thanks to the Block Family Food Challenge), and to those of you who donate nonperishable food items on a regular basis. Our thanks to everyone who gives throughout the year and a special thank you to Congregation Ahavath Chesed and the Jacksonville Jewish Center for their ongoing food drives. Foods of the month for May: peanut butter, jelly, pasta, tomato sauce, chili, fruit juice Graphic: FANN grocery bag
CALL2GO
Graphic: Call2Go Remember rides to synagogue for Shabbat and holidays are absolutely free, and other rides to medical appointments, the grocery store, etc. are offered at a reduced rate. Need a ride? Call the transportation line at 224-6287.
Thank you sponsors
Our gratitude to the support and generosity of the following sponsors for a most successful Alexandra and Mark Miller Speaker Series, which took place last month. Thank you to Barry and Eunice Zisser, ComForCare Home Services, Baptist Medical Center, Paul and Gail Furman, Deinya Mautz, Community Hospice of Northeast Florida, Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner, Jim and Francine Kempner, Alan and Ina Taffet, Dr. Anne Lesser Lufrano, Dr. Ron and Sue Elinoff and Lauren Block.
JFCS staff members share photos of themselves, with their mothers (from left to right): Gail Furman, Jewish Services; Rachel Camilo, Counseling; Anna Clark, Child Welfare; Brandie Crawley, Child Welfare; Heather Corey, Development and Marketing; Helen Hill; Lauren Bailey, Independent Living.
By HELEN HILL
Jewish Family & Community Services
Thanks, Mom, for raising me to be an independent and caring Jewish adult. You taught me independence at a time when most moms didn’t work. You gave me a strong Jewish identity while growing up in a community where we were the only Jewish family. And you taught me to be thoughtful to oth-
ers by example. You were always visiting someone who was in the nursing home, sending a special, personalized card to cheer someone up, and you were always involved with community and civic projects, professional workshops or coordinating gatherings of friends and family. You were always in the thick of things, and you were in constant motion. And now, you’ve slowed
down. This will be the 64th time you have celebrated Mother’s Day (a number which may give away my age). You now need assistance with some of the things you used to do automatically, diligently and effortlessly. Our roles have reversed. I make sure you are well cared for, take you to the doctor when you are sick and balance your checkbook. But you are still the mom. You let me know when you’re upset with me and when
you’re delighted with me, and I still long for the latter! I’ve sought the advice of Jewish Family & Community Services, of other professionals in the community, and of friends. I want to do this right. You were there for me when I needed you mom, and I hope you know that I am here for you. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom!
Social media and your teen Cosmic Bowling returns By Jewish Family & Community Services
The next Conversation Café will be held Thursday, May 23, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the topic, “Social Media & Your Teen” is a timely one. If you are a parent or grandparent of a teen or pre-teen, you won’t want to miss this informative panel presentation
which will feature an attorney, an expert in social media and a law enforcement officer. The Conversation Café meets at Jewish Family & Community Services, 6261 Dupont Station Ct., E. The series is free, but RSVPs are required as we provide lunch. For more information, contact hhill@ jfcsjax.org or (904) 394-5782.
Helping kids who age out
By Jewish Family & Community Services and game prizes. This event will
Cosmic Bowling returns! Join us on Sunday, June 2, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a whole bunch of family fun. There will be bowling, pizza, chance drawings
be held at Mandarin Bowl America, 10333 San Jose. Call today to sponsor a lane or reserve a space. Call Renie at (904) 3945721 or rlevin@jfcsjax.org.
Caring for Your Parent set May 14 By Jewish Family & Community Services
The next session of Caring for Your Parent will be held on Tuesday, May 14, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please join Shelley Kulchin, elder care advocate, as she leads
a discussion on Communication: How to Talk with Your Parents. Come learn what words to use and what words to avoid when talking to your parents about the tough issues. Contact Shelley at (904) 394-5722 or skulchin@jfcsjax.org.
You can count on us
COUNTDOWN TO 100 YEARS
4 Years, 1 Month JFCS: Serving our COMMUNITY since 1917.
Kate Walker, supervisor of Unit 572 at JFCS, is leading her team at a recent homemaker event at Family Support Services. This event helped a teen who recently aged out of foster care and is the mother of two children. Want to sponsor a homemaker shower for other kids aging out? Call Heather Corey at 394-5727.
We have a great committee planning our big event, “You Can Count on Us,” to be held Oct. 17. Honorary chairs are Laurie and Linda DuBow, and Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver. Please save this date. Sponsorships available. Contact Heather Corey at (904) 394-5727.
JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES 2012 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $250,283
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
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LIFECYCLES Birth
David Liam Maklin was born March 7, 2013, to parents Svetlana and Nisan Maklin; big brother Eddie and big sister Sofia; and grandparents Lyuba and Isaac Moldavskiy. Sandi Roth announces the birth of her grandson Reuven, son of Chaim and Bryna Roth of North Miami Beach. Reuven is named in memory of his grandfather Robert of Jacksonville. Reuven’s siblings are Zevi, Batsheva and AJ.
B’nai Mitzvah
Alexa and Brandon Grubowski, daughter and son of Ted and Lisa Grubowski will be called to the Torah on the occasion of their B’nai Mitzvah on May 18, 2013. Sharing in their simcha will be their sister Jessica, 16, and many other family and friends. Alexa is a seventh-grade student at Switzerland Point Middle School, where she is in the advanced classes. She enjoys playing soccer, dancing and hanging out with friends. Brandon is a seventh-grade student at Switzerland Point Middle School, where he is in the advanced classes. He enjoys playing baseball and basketball. For their mitzvah project they collected and donated supplies for Hurricane Sandy victims. They delivered the items over winter break. Michael Nathan Maltz, son of the Honorable Howard Maltz and Leah Maltz, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of his Bar Mitzvah on May 4, 2013, at Beth El -
The Beaches Synagogue. Sharing in the simcha will be his grandmother Edna Maltz from Jacksonville, and his grandmother Ruby Goldfield from Montgomery, Ala., along with his aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. Michael is in seventh grade at Fruit Cove Middle School, where he is an honors student. He especially enjoys civics, science and math. Michael plays lacrosse for Creeks Athletic League, enjoys playing the guitar, air soft activities, and loves anything having to do with computer technology. For Michael’s mitzvah project, he has collected thousands of items for the JCP Cares Homeless Student Summer Backpack Program. Daniel Osachy, son of Lori Osachy, and Rabbi David and Rose Osachy, was called to the Torah on the occasion of his Bar Mitzvah on April 20, 2013, at a shabbat service conducted by Rabbi Mona Decker of Congregation Kehillah Chadashah. Sharing in the simcha were Daniel’s big brother Jake, grandparents Marilyn Unger Osachy of Pittsburgh and Peter and Marilyn Finkler of New York, and many other dear family members and friends. Daniel is also the grandson of the late Saul Osachy of Pittsburgh. Daniel is a seventh-grade honors student at Lavilla School of the Arts, where he majors in visual arts and piano. An amateur historian of the American experience, with special passion for the Civil War era, Daniel is beloved by all for his warm and kindhearted personality. Reesa Sydney Zaifert, daughter of Talie and Dana Zaifert, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of her Bat Mitzvah on May 25, 2013, at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Sharing in the simcha will be her brother Jeremy; grandpar-
ents Shirley and Abe Bielski of Jacksonville and Frances Zaifert of Cherry Hill, N.J.; along with many friends and family. Reesa is in the seventh grade and an honors student at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School. She is vice president of programming in Kadima. She was on the first dance team in the history of MJGDS and was also on the Marlins volleyball team. She has been dancing for the past 10 years with Mark Spivak’s Institute of Fine Arts and, for the past five years, has enjoyed the JCA Theatre camp. When not dancing or doing homework, Reesa’s favorite pastime is spent with friends on Instagram, Facebook, Skype and Twitter. Reesa’s mitzvah project is the Kids Helping Kids program through Dreams Come True. She is raising money to give a child, who is battling a life-threatening illness, the dream of a lifetime. Reesa and Dreams Come True will present the dream to the child and his/her family on May 3 at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School. Coral Rose Zicht, daughter of Denise and Richard Zicht, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of her Bat Mitzvah on May 4, 2013, at Temple Bet Yam. Sharing in the simcha will be her grandparents, Ellen and Myron Mensh of St. Augustine, and Joan and Roy Zicht of Palm Coast; and many other friends and family. Coral is in seventh grade at Gamble Rogers Middle School where she enjoys art classes and cheerleading. She enjoys spending time at a local assisted-living facility where she displays compassion and shares her energy. She is committed to tikkun olam and helps support our community food bank. Coral loves spending time with her younger siblings and strives to be a good role model for them.
Accomplishments
The French Consulate recently notified Marvin R. Edwards that he has been nominated for the Knight of Legion of Honor for his work with the French underground during World War II. He
was working with the air arm of the Office of Strategic Services, the forerunner of the CIA, as a navigator in a British plane called the Mosquito. There were just the pilot, the navigator and an OSS agent in the belly of the plane. They contacted spies on the ground behind the German lines and recorded messages on the movement of the German troops that were recorded and taken back to intelligence in London. They also dropped spies behind the German lines as well as supplies. The award ceremony was scheduled for April 25 in Tallahassee in the Florida Historic Capital Museum. Kevin Kaplan, M.D., was selected by the Jacksonville Business Journal as one of Northeast Florida’s brightest and most promising professionals in its publication, “40 Under 40.” Cary Glickstein was recently elected mayor of Delray Beach. Cary is the son of Rose Haber Glickstein and Judge Hugh Glickstein, formerly of Jacksonville, who still have family and friends in the city.
Sympathy
… to the family of Harriet (Ernie) Brodsky on the passing of her mother, Mary Dumont, on April 12, 2013. Other family members including a daughter, Nadolyn (Kenny) Karchmer; grandchildren Colman (Rachel) Brodsky, Melissa (Chad) Miller, Kendall (Mark) Borenstein, and Randy (Laurie) Karchmer; and 14 great-grandchildren. Contributions may be made to River Garden. … to the family of Sue Corr, wife of Arnold Corr, mother of Marcia Luettchau, Laura (Robert) Latshaw and grandmother of Jonathan, Sara, Scott and Allison. Sue died April 14, 2013. Contributions may be made to the Temple and/or to the Jacksonville Humane Society. … to the family of Bernice Ghelerter who died March 28, 2013. She is survived by her children; Stephen Ghelerter (Janice), Richard Ghelerter (Vanessa), Robin O’Connell (Tony), and Donna Ghelerter (Greg Dinkins). She is also survived by her grandchildren Jeff Ghelerter (wife Rony Smith-Ghelerter), Jill Ghelerter (wife Kim Blount), Andrew Ghelerter, Aaron Ghelerter, Roger
McDonell (wife Kelly), David Golcher (wife Anna), Adam Ghelerter, Anna Ghelerter, Alexander Ghelerter, Cody O’Connell, and Lily Dinkins; six great-grandchildren; and her companion Nate Joel. Contributions may be made to River Garden, 11401 Old Saint Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32258. … to the family of Mary R. Goodman, wife of Rabbi Robert Goodman, mother of Ariella (Adam) Reisner, Craig (Hagit) Goodman and granmother of Talia, Zachary, Eli, Shira and Noa and sister of David (Terry) Rubin. Mary died March 19, 2013. Contributions may be made to The Rebecca Goodman Fund for Mental Health Discover at Mayo Clinic, c/o Mayo Clinic Development Office, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, 32224 or Congregation Ahavath Chesed. … to the family of Margie Harris who died April 16, 2013. She is survived by her son Jeff Harris (Joe Torres); grandson Joshua Muller; and sisters Helen Schemer and Mitzi Arnold. Contributions may be made to the Jacksonville Jewish Center. … to the family of Doris Klepper, mother of Brian (Elaine) and Russell (Carla) Klepper, grandmother of Joel, Matthew (Jessica) and Courtney (Justin Dunn) and sister of Irma (Sheldon) Blattner. Doris died April 9, 2013. Contributions may be made to Florida Guardian Ad Litem Foundation or Alzheimers Foundation of America. … to the family of Edna Reich who died March 25, 2013. She is survived by her daughters Sandi (Gary) Fletcher and Pam Kauss (Jim Pasino); and grandsons Brad and Todd Fletcher, and Jeremy Pasino. Contributions may be made to the Kelsi Leah Young Respite Care Fund at Community Hospice of Northeast Florida, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257. To submit an item for lifecycles, please email it to jjn@ jewishjacksonville.org. Deadline is the 6th of the month. For guidelines of how to write Bar/ Bat Mitzvah, wedding or obituary announcements, go to jewishjacksonville.org/news under “Share your news.”
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Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
LIFECYCLES/COMMUNITY NEWS
Experiencing a strange change By MALLORY HARRIS
Congregation Ahavath Chesed
This year, for our trip as the confirmation class of Congregation Ahavath Chesed, we went to Savannah, Ga. Although the drive took two hours, the trip was like going into a whole different world. The customs at historic Temple Mickve Israel, which are different from those at Temple in Jacksonville, were especially strange as we witnessed one of their rare Bar Mitzvah services. From the false-marble pillars that are wrought iron, to the choices of music throughout the
service, it was made clear that we were outside of our comfort zones. One of the members of their congregation, B.H. Levy, took us to the old Jewish cemetery to visit his ancestor, Mordecai Sheftall, who played an important role in the American Revolution. We learned a lot of how Savannah was significant to the original Jewish settlers. We learned the history of Savannah, as well, especially on our horse-drawn carriage historical tour. One enjoyable part of the trip occurred during that tour. One of my male classmates let out an especially high-pitched scream because of a falling trashcan after hearing
about a nearby haunted house. Another special memory is the ice cream shop, Leopold’s. It caught our attention thanks to the occasional presence of Ben Affleck, who has a relationship with the owner, movie producer Leopold Stratton. From the art museum to the cemeteries to the specially picked restaurants, the trip was a success. We all learned new things about the history of Judaism in America and how it relates to our practice of Judaism today as we enjoyed our excursion away from the normal, which gave our class a new perspective on our own lives.
Shalom Jax presents Summer Shaloha By ISABEL BALOTIN Shalom Jacksonville
Shaloha, a synthesis of Shalom and Aloha, is the salutation Jewish Hawaiians use to say goodbye, hello and peace. That is why we chose Shaloha to be the name of our third annual summer social on June 2, as it will be a tropical welcoming for newcomers and those newly interested in the North Florida Jewish community. Guests will enjoy a Hawaiian luau menu and tropical punches served around the pool
at a South Mandarin home. You can get into the island spirit by wearing a Hawaiian shirt, long dress or any other casual clothing. Come ready to enjoy a delightful evening of schmoozing, good food and friendship. For most of us, the summer months are a time to relax, catch up on our reading, spend time outdoors and just take a break from some of our day-to-day activities. However, for the Jewish Federation’s Shalom Jacksonville, this is the season for
newcomers. While many families move to this area all year long, we find most arrive during the summer months. These casual social events are perfect opportunities for newcomers to meet each other and connect with neighbors, locals and the community in general. Please send us names of any new families, friends or relatives so we can invite them to our events. For more information, please contact Isabel Balotin, 904448-5000 x 206 or shalomjax@ jewishjacksonville.org.
Beth El serves wine and cheese for interfaith couples By Beth El The Beaches Synagogue
Are you or your spouse Jewish and the other is not? Would you like to meet others like you in an informal setting? “Chavurah-a
Jewish friendship circle that meets for discussion where members come to celebrate and socialize.” Beth El The Beaches Synagogue would like to invite interfaith couples to a Chavurah wine and
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www.jewishjacksonville.org
cheese reception Sunday, June 2, 5 p.m. Please email or call Bethsmall@bethelbeaches.org, 904.273.9100, for more information.
FRAGILE:
HANDLE WITH
CARE. Every day, thousands of elderly Jews here at home, in Israel and around the world are fed, sheltered and given the care and love they deserve. From emergency financial assistance to medical care to transportation, with your help we can provide every Jewish senior with the help they need to live with dignity.
THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. jewishjacksonville.org/give THE POWER OF COMMUNITY. facebook.com/jaxjewish
This could get messy By ANDREW OCEAN
Congregation Ahavath Chesed
She stands in her kitchen the queen of a domain that she has overseen for years. She rules with an iron skillet, and her nonstick baking pans are ready to do her bidding. Will she be summoning a recipe from a family sage from generations long past? Or will she invent a new delicacy from an idea formed deep within her soul? With apron cinched tightly, oven preheated to 350 degrees, brightly colored oven mitts hanging nearby, flour, sugar, baking powder, bowls, spoons, spatulas, cutting boards, knives, and the other implements to which she is finely attuned, she steadies her nerves and puts on the icy stare of a champion. With the calm, cool demeanor that comes from years
of culinary warfare and having suffered her share of victory and defeat, she prepares to start her mixer. She is ready to get messy, but she is absolutely not to be messed with. Who is this warrior about to take her baked goods into battle? Who has no peer in regard to matters of desserts of all kinds? Who has sweetened the lives of all who cross her threshold? It can only be one person, so (cue the ring announcer) let’s get ready for Bubbe! The judging takes place Sunday, May 5, at the second annual Jacksonville Jewish Food Festival at Congregation Ahavath Chesed. Categories: cakes and cookies. Full rules are at www.TheTempleJacksonville.org. Prizes for first and second place in each category. More information call (904) 733-7078.
Kehillah welcomes the Sabbath and you By Kehillah Chadashah
As Kehillah Chadashah continues to grow, we added additional Shabbat services. Join us for Shabbat the second and fourth Friday nights of every month at 7 p.m. The fourth Friday night services
are Kabbalat Shabbat with more time dedicated to study and discussion. Services are held in members’ homes, creating an intimate, friendly, welcoming and spiritual experience. For more information, email Kehillah Chadashah at kehillahchadashah@gmail.com.
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SYNAGOGUE NEWS
Live from Jacksonville, it’s Friday night By kAREN STONE
Congregation Ahavath Chesed
What do you get when you combine the musical talent of our local Jewish community with Shabbat? A lively and uplifting worship experience. Please join your friends at Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) as we welcome Shabbat with a memorable Friday Night Live musical worship experience on Friday, May 3, at 7 p.m.
Rabbi Matthew Cohen and his Friday Night Live band have been hard at work preparing for this special worship experience. When asked “Why a band?” Cohen explained, “My vision for the rabbinate is to give Jews many opportunities to actively participate in and shape their own Judaism. Bringing together the many talented musicians from within the Temple family successfully promotes and fulfills that vision. The musical talents of the Temple
band include piano, guitar, bass, clarinet, trombone, drums, percussion instruments and vocals. Additionally, as with all First Friday Shabbatot at Temple, our youth group, JAFTY, will create and lead the service.” It is sure to be a memorable evening, and we hope you will join us. Let your soul take in the wonderful music on May 3 and then return hungry on Sunday, May 5, for our second annual Jewish Food Festival.
Miracles and meals come together By Kehillah Chadashah
Kehillah Chadashah is again honoring the victims and survivors of the Holocaust by selling the second edition of the “Holocaust Survivor Cookbook.” This second cookbook is call “Miracles and Meals” and includes 115 new survivor stories and 250 new kosher recipes.
Center holds magazine drive Books are also being collected to be donated to the library at River Garden. All magazines and books can be dropped off the Center, located at 3662 Crown Point Road.
The book is filled with wonderful stories by survivors, each accompanied with a delicious family recipe. The book honors the memories of those who perished in the Holocaust and those who survived and rebuilt productive, positive lives. Funds raised from the sale of the cookbook go to Carmei Ha’ir Soup Kitchen in
Jerusalem. The book is $36 and makes a wonderful gift to yourself or for someone else you care about. It’s the gift that keeps on giving. To order your book(s) you can email kehillahchadashah@ gmail.com or go to Kehillah Chadashah’s website https://sites. google.com/site/kehillahchadashah/.
Jacksonville
Jewish News Grow your business If you want to reach a demographic with a higher than average household income and education, the Jewish News is your connection. To advertise, contact Diane Rodgers at 448-5000 x 212 or jjn@jewishjacksonville.org
Windows of Identity - Phase 2 - Call for Entries
We are seeking artists from Jacksonville to participate in the Windows of Identity exhibit. The project is a terrific way to connect with other communities in the United States and Israel around a common interest — art! The exhibit will be displayed at the GA in Jerusalem in November 2013, in the Hadera-Eiron region, and in all Southeast Consortium cities. Pictured is last year’s exhibit. The new exhibit will take on a different theme. For information contact Partnership Director Jill Abel at 448-5000 ext. 200 or jilla@jewishjacksonville.org.
Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
Father’s Day
Beth El The Beaches Synagogue celebrates dad’s day.
Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
www.jewishjacksonville.org
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ISRAEL PARTNERSHIP/COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT Continued from p. 1
International School Twinning Network through its Partnership program. The goal is to build bridges between schools in Israel and Jewish communities around the world. The program has expanded in Jacksonville, as can be seen in the accompanying photos of Beth El The Beaches Synagogue students sharing their pen pal letters. The program has also evolved with many students Skyping on special occasions such as Purim. The MJGDS fourth and fifth grade skyped with their penpals from the Tzafririm school on February 19. The Tzafririm school has a Purim Ball every year so the students were at the school at 6 p.m. for the party. MJGDS
students skyped with them right before the Purim Ball so of course they were wearing their costumes. “Our students learned that we share the same tradition of dressing up and that Israeli costumes are creative and fun, said Liat Walker, Partnership twinning program coordinator. Twinning programs ideally promote the sense of Jewish peoplehood and shared responsibility – for pupils in Diaspora and Israel schools alike, according to JAFI. Pupils have the chance to meet each other for dynamic conversations around issues such as Jewish identity and social responsibility. “We see a lot of similarities between our school and the Gottlieb school,” Principal Tova Cohen said. Twinning programs likewise link educators for professional and personal enrichment. The net-
Sixth and seventh graders from Beth El The Beaches Synagogue, write letters to their Partnership pen pals in Hadera, Israel. work will share best practices and lesson plans between participating schools, will offer professional
Playground upgrade
Beth El Sunday School students enthusiastically welcome the new and improved playground. Thank you to the parents and volunteers that made this much-needed sprucing up possible.
Food + community = joy at the Temple By MICHELLE PARGMAN Congregation Ahavath Chesed
The 2nd annual Jacksonville Jewish Food Festival at the Temple, 8727 San Jose Blvd., will certainly be a joy-filled event. Spend a few hours with your Jacksonville community tasting the local fare. Treat yourself by sampling some of the best ethnic food Jacksonville has to offer from corned beef and brisket to kasha varnishkas and everything in between. The Temple is delighted to host several hundred for this year’s annual Temple fundraiser and overall fun-raiser. For starters, we invite any and all that have access to a delicious family recipe worthy of a Bubbe’s time and effort to participate in our Bubbe’s Bake Off. For a
$5 entry fee, your dish will be judged and four lucky, talented and creative individuals will be declared winners. In addition, attendees can participate in the L’Chaim Wine Wall —$18 to enter and come away with a bottle of wine that may be worth more. There will be a Kidz Fun Zone, which includes face painting and crafts to occupy the young and young at heart. Take a tour of our historic synagogue to learn Temple’s unique history and influence in the Jacksonville community. Share some Jewish culture while meeting old friends and making new ones, and indulging in pure fun for the heart, soul, and stomach. We sincerely thank our wonderful sponsors, food vendors, partnering businesses, and our congregants for their talent
and contributions. Special thanks to Encore Events for providing the décor. We look forward to opening our doors to all of you on Sunday, May 5, at 11:30 a.m. Eat ‘till you drop or until 2:30 p.m., whichever comes first. Tickets: $10 in advance, $12 at the door. Details available online: http://thetemplejacksonville.org/ community/jewish-food-festival Participating food vendors include Athens Cafe, Caring Congregation, Casbah, Catering by Liz, Classic Kosher Catering, Firehouse Subs, Let’s Nosh, Mandaloun Restaurant, Margo’s Catering, Nippers Beach Grille, Olive My Pickle, rsvp Caterers, Small Bites Dessert Studio, Two Redheads & a Kitchen, Temple Brotherhood, Village Bread Café, and WRJ Temple Sisterhood.
Kehillah Chadashah celebrates the holidays By Kehillah Chadashah
Kehillah Chadashah joins Israel in celebrating Yom Ha’atzmaut. As we looked across the ocean with our hearts yearning for Israel, we had a barbecue at the beach Israelistyle with traditional Israeli
food, Israeli music and Israeli dancing. Not far behind Yom Ha’atzmaut was Lag B’Omer. Kehillah Chadashah celebrated with a pool party and cookout at one of the member’s home. Members brought food to donate to the Jewish Family & Commu-
nity Services food pantry. Shavuot will be met with the traditional study following Havdalah services on May 14 at 7 p.m. Join us for Shavuot, Kehillah Chadashah style. For more information, email kehillahchadashah@gmail.com.
accompaniment and training, and will help link peer groups within the network. The grassroots school twinning program has evolved into several models of operations, with all of them focusing on Jewish values, Jewish identity, culture and heritage.
Thanks to the dedicated efforts of hundreds of educators, JAFI says, school twinning has evolved as Partnerships flagship program. JAFI is a beneficiary agency of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville.
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Join us for the
22
nd
annual celebration Of
Jacksonville Jewish News • May 2013
Had we only held a joint, five agency Annual Meeting celebrating another year of community good works, but did not hold the election and installation of our community’s leaders for the next year of good work, it would have been enough...
DAYENU! Had we only held the installation of our community’s leaders, but not recognized our community’s passionate and dedicated volunteers, it would have been enough...
DAYENU! Had we only recognized our community’s volunteers, but not held a
super summer barbecue served up by our agency executives, it would have been enough...
DAYENU!
Join us for hamburgers and hot dogs on
Thursday, May 30 Dinner: 6:15 PM Meeting: 7 PM Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard
RSVP by calling 448-5000
Jacksonville’s Jewish Agencies
Jewish Federation of Jacksonville Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida Jewish Community Alliance Jewish Family & Community Services River Garden Hebrew Home / Wolfson Health & Aging Center