NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Jewish Life A PU B LICATION O F JE WI S H FE DE RAT ION A N D FOU N DAT ION OF N ORT H E AST F LO R I DA
JFCS is #HereForAll
g ardening WITH SCRAPS MAY 2020 - SIVAN 5780 VOL. 32 NO. 19 | jewishjacksonville.org photo credit: DuBow Preschool and Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
contents COMMUNITY JEWISH AGENCIES TEAM UP TO OVERCOME THE TRIALS OF COVID-19
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13 L’DOR V’DOR YOM HASHOAH: WE WILL NEVER FORGET FEATURES SEE HOW HER GARDEN GROWS
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SEE AND BE SCENE PURIM RENAISSANCE FAIRE
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COMMUNITY RESOURCES
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COVID-19 Resources & Community Information These are uncertain, challenging times for the world, our country, Israel and our community. The Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida is ready to fulfill the mandate of “kol yisrael arevim zeh b’zeh” (all of Israel are responsible for one another). Our shared Jewish values provide a roadmap for weathering this coronavirus storm. As always, we translate those values into actions that define us: saving lives, caring for the sick and performing acts of loving kindness. Obviously, it is not business as usual. Though our office is closed, we remain very much
open for business to help the hungry, the sick and others at-risk. Below you will find a community resource guide with information for not only your local Jewish community, but city information and other resouces from the WHO and the CDC. If you or your family need help and you cannot find the resources you need here, please don’t hesitate to reach out to info@jewishjacksonville.org and we will assist you in any way we can. For updated information, please go to our website at jewishjacksonville.org.
www.jewishtogether.org
Virtual community and informative resources, powered by The Jewish Federations of North America.
www.jcajax.org
The JCA building is closed until further notice. They still continue to serve our community with a host of engaging virtual activities, resources and lessons.
www.jfcsjax.org The Max Block Food Pantry will have bagged food available for pick-up between 1-3:00 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday at our Dupont location (6261 Dupont Station Court East). When you come to the food pantry, please park in a numbered space in front of the pantry, stay in your vehicle, and turn on your hazard lights. Someone will come to your vehicle to assist you. Teletherapy is currently being offered either online or over the phone. Counseling is offered on a sliding scale based on income. Many different insurances are also accepted, including Medicaid. Call 904-394-5706 to schedule an appointment.
www.NowInStock.net
NowInStock.net - Keep an eye online for information regarding restocks of much needed items, like household cleaners, hand soap and toilet paper.
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LETTER FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
May 7, 2020
In mid-March I wrote to the community and stated that over the course of that prior week the number of Americans who had come down with the coronavirus had grown to 35,000. Today, we know that over 1,000,000 Americans have tested positive and over 70,000 have passed away. Here, in Jacksonville, little is as it was prior to the crisis. I do want to share with you that we have much to be proud of when it comes to our Jewish community and our Jewish family of organizations! As positive as our relationships were prior to the pandemic, they are stronger and closer now. I believe that these relationships will make us resilient as we start to develop our new normal. Every morning, our Federation president, Iris Kraemer, and I, meet via Zoom with representatives of nearly all of the agencies, synagogues and schools. We are watching first-hand how they are working to keep Jewish life thriving, even while our institutions, the buildings themselves are closed down. Our Federation staff and volunteer leadership are also meeting together via Zoom and working every day. We are completing the 2020 Annual Campaign, while having raised over $110,000 for the Jewish Community Emergency Pandemic Relief Fund. While a part, we have come together to observe Passover with our P2G friends in Israel, commemorated Yom HaShoah with a meaningful program coordinated by Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue and held various engagement programs. We are already making plans for next year, with a number of contingencies. For more than 30 years, I have stated how wonderful this community is in which to live and raise a family. Now, more than ever, our community is stronger and our future is bright. Shabbat Shalom
Alan Margolies Federation Executive Director
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Jewish Federation & Foundation Staff
Alan Margolies Federation Executive Director alanm@jewishjacksonville.org
Lauren Rickoff Director, Campaign & Women’s Philanthropy laurenr@jewishjacksonville.org Kellie Smith Director, Foundation kelliek@jewishjacksonville.org
Emma Pulley Associate Director, Administration & Planned Giving emmap@jewishjacksonville.org Faye Hedrick Director, Young Professionals & Families fayeh@jewishjacksonville.org
Pat Burke Director, Finance & Administration patrickb@jewishjacksonville.org Val Battini Finance Specialist valb@jewishjacksonville.org
Isabel Balotin Director, Shalom Y’all shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org Jill Abel Director, Israel Partnership jilla@jewishjacksonville.org
Rotem Gabay Israeli Shaliach jaxshlichut@jewishjacksonville.org Jennifer Rensch Campaign Coordinator jenniferr@jewishjacksonville.org Your Strategists, LLC Communications & Editorial Team jjn@jewishjacksonville.org Ellen Cohen Wilcox Sales Representative es_cohen@yahoo.com
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JEWISH AGENCIES TEAM UP TO OVERCOME THE TRIALS OF COVID-19 By Kari Bell, River Garden and Iman Byfield, Jewish Community Alliance
The Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) has partnered with River Garden Senior Services and The Coves independent living community to help those who are most vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus and demonstrate how agencies can successfully work together amid this pandemic. River Garden began a concerted effort to protect seniors who reside on their Mandarin campus in early March. Volunteer programs and public events ceased midmonth, and members who live independently on the campus were asked to self-quarantine. “All of these precautions have been in-line with CDC guidance and are designed to minimize the chance of the virus entering the campus,”Associate Administrator Mauri Mizrahi said. “This has increased the work for our gate entry staff, and personal shopping service for members of The Coves is in high demand.” With the decision to close the physical location of the
With an average of 15 shopping orders per day from members of The Coves at River Garden, these JCA staffers have been deployed as personal shoppers. Thank you!
JCA during the COVID-19 crisis, the agency has assigned staff to other areas of the community–as much as safety allows–where aid is needed. When JCA staff reached out by telephone, River Garden graciously accepted the offer of help. “As inherent in our mission
statement, the JCA is here to enhance the quality of life of the entire community. During this time, our partnerships are more critical than ever, and we are thrilled to be in a position to help,” JCA CEO Adam Chaskin said. Nearly 40 JCA staff members have been trained
to assist with screenings at the front entrance to River Garden and another 15 JCA staff members are helping with daily shopping at Publix. Mizrahi celebrates their help. “The JCA staff has been wonderful and we really appreciate their spirit of teamwork!”
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NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE
FOOD, FINANCIAL & COUNSELING SERVICES FOR ALL By Donna O’Steen, Jewish Family & Community Services
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Jewish Family & Community Services has always been a force in Northeast Florida. We have provided food, financial assistance, counseling, child welfare services and much-needed programming to those that have needed it. In times of crisis, these services are even more critical. In the face of the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, JFCS continues to provide solutions to problems facing our community, and although the way we serve our community may have changed, JFCS is still #HereforJax. We are working hard to find alternative ways to comfort our senior and Holocaust survivor populations; administering financial assistance to those in crisis, thanks to the First Coast Relief Fund; distributing much-needed food and supplies to the community through the Max Block Food Pantry; and working tirelessly to ensure clients can continue their mental health counseling with therapists in our Dupont Counseling Group program.
These services are in place to help our clients and the entire Jacksonville community come through this crisis successfully. So, what is JFCS doing differently? Seniors and Holocaust Survivor Services Case managers have always met with clients on a one-on-one, face-toface basis to provide care and case management to seniors and Holocaust survivors. Through our partnership with Feeding Northeast Florida, volunteers picked up food to deliver to seniors twice a month. Our seniors are an at-risk population for the virus, so JFCS has modified our case management model to weekly calls rather than face-to-face visits to ensure the health of clients. Food delivery has not stopped and occurs more often.
Volunteers utilize gloves and are instructed to leave the food at client’s front doors Clients have been advised to empty the grocery delivery bags, throw the bags away immediately, wipe down and clean the items delivered and then wash their hands to contain germs. We have also secured
funding through the Claims Conference and Blue Card, which allows JFCS to also provide seniors and Holocaust survivors with fresh fruits, vegetables, grains and eggs, as well as ensured that Meals 4 You is continuing to run. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 crisis has left many seniors and
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Holocaust survivors feeling isolated. In response, JFCS launched the ‘Phone-a-Friend’ program. Once a week, a volunteer calls or emails a senior to check on their well-being and be a friendly voice for those feeling alone. Financial Assistance JFCS continues to work with people in the community who need assistance with rent, mortgage, and utilities. We distribute federal, state and private funding to help families meet basic needs and get back on their feet. The current pandemic has increased the number of individuals and families requesting financial assistance. Thanks to the First Coast Relief Fund we are currently able to meet their needs. The fund, a collaborative effort of The Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida, The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, The United Way of Northeast Florida, The Jesse Ball DuPont Fund, the United Way of St. Johns County and other private donors, focuses on ensuring that people can get necessary items such as prescriptions and food as well as helping to cover rent/mortgage and utilities. Individuals and families
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requiring assistance must call United Way 2-1-1 for financial assistance relief. United Way will field all calls and assign clients to a fund-managing agency Jewish Family & Community Services has always been a force in Northeast Florida. We have provided food, financial assistance, counseling, child welfare services and much-needed programming to those that have needed it. ; The Max Block Food Pantry During the COVID-19 crisis, the Max Block Food Pantry remains open for business. We have implemented a number of changes during this time to ensure the safety of staff, volunteers and clients. Clients can no longer shop in the Max Block Food Pantry. Instead, JFCS is providing ‘Curbside” service. Clients can park in a numbered space in front of the pantry, to turn on their hazard lights and wait for a staff member or volunteer to come out to the car to assist them. Once their needs are assessed, food will be delivered to the car. All volunteers and staff have
been advised to wear gloves and masks during all transactions. Bagged food is available for pick-up on Tuesdays and Thursdays. However, the food pantry days and hours are subject to change based on the needs of our community so please visit jfcsjax.org and click on “Services We Provide” for updated hours. JFCS has also collaborated with Inspire to Rise, another local non-profit agency that assists the community, to open a satellite food pantry at their campus, located on the Westside of Jacksonville. The organization will be distributing food every Thursday to families in at 5927 Old Timuquana Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210. Dupont Counseling Group Everyone faces challenges at some point in their lives, but there is no reason to face them
alone. Dupont Counseling Group Provides family, individual, couples and group counseling to adults and children in need of therapeutic services. They serve the entire community. Due to social distancing mandates, Dupont Counseling Group has moved to a teletherapy model. Clients and therapists continue to meet, see, hear and interact with each other in real time using an online, private platform for their scheduled appointments. New clients are welcome. To make an appointment, call Dupont Counseling Group at 904-394-5706. Jewish Family & Community Services is here during the current crisis to make sure the unfolding needs of the community are met. We are here to help people help themselves. We are #HereforJax. 7
2 0 1 9 J E W I S H F O U N DAT I O N O F N O R T H E A S T F LO R I DA A N N U A L R E P O R T C A R D Your Jewish Foundation is proud to release the 2019 Annual Report Card. This report is a reflection of all the growth that has been achieved in the second year post-merger with Federation, as well as a highlight of the B’nai Tzedek Next Gen Grant Program and the winning organizations for the 2019-2020 grant cycle. You all are responsible for our success this past year. Thank you for your investment in our Jewish community, for your talents and your treasures as true leaders. The Foundation is grateful to our fund holders, volunteers and community partners for trusting us with their investments and continuing the great work of securing the future of our Jewish community.
JEWISH FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Philanthropic Impact Report 2019
$30 Million Assets Under Management 425 Total Funds
$ 3.8 million in fund contributions for CY 2019
$ 4.8 Million
in grants distributed by the Foundation during CY 2017-19
Total Grants Awared by Interest Area 2019
$ 937,000
in grants distributed during CY 2019
B’nai Tzedek Next Gen Grants
In July of 2019, the B’nai Tzedek Young Philanthropy program was revitalized with the introduction of B’nai Tzedek Next Gen Grantmaking. Eleven nonprofit organizations within the Northeast Florida community were invited to apply for a $15,000 grant, payable over three consecutive years. Below are the winning organizations and the programs that received funding for the 2019 - 2020 grant cycle:
Bridges Leadership Initiative
Jewish Identity 63%
Summer Camp 1%
Family 14%
Aging & Eldercare 4%
Israel & Global 1%
Healthcare 4%
Education 4%
Other 9%* *Women-Focused Organizations, Civil Rights and Social Justice, General Philanthropy, Social Services and Community Development
Dollars Granted
29%
16% 84% Non-Jewish: $150,325
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Number of Grants
Jewish: $787,098
Bridges explores the work of our Jewish community organizations, cultivates new leaders, and strengthens the sense of connection among Jewish OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA young professionals from diverse religious, professional and educational backgrounds that form the fabric of the Jacksonville Jewish community.
E.P.I.C. Inclusion Program Students with different learning abilities work with an experienced team that provides tutoring, case management, and behavioral support so that they can more fully experience the richness of Jewish educational, cultural and social life.
Just Like Me 71%
Non-Jewish: 80 Jewish: 192
An award-winning Magic Wardrobe Theatre Program, which was created to teach tolerance, the importance of diversity, and the significance of inclusivity in today’s polarized society, in order to create dialogue between younger generations and Holocaust survivors.
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PIVOTING TO CONTINUE SERVING OUR COMMUNITY
By Iman Byfield, Jewish Community Alliance
During the COVID-19 crisis, the Jewish Community Alliance has continued to reach beyond its walls and remain a valuable community resource for the people of Jacksonville. After the decision was made to close the agency building in midMarch to help contain the spread of the coronavirus, the JCA swiftly moved its operations to a virtual platform and began looking for ways to safely be of service within the
community. The JCA initiated its virtual efforts with the creation of JCA Virtual, an online platform that allowed members and guests to remain connected and engaged. Members who regularly came to the JCA for fitness have been able to take part in group classes via Facebook Live sessions and YouTube videos as well as virtual personal training. Michele Block Gan Yeladim and JCA Youth Services host regular learning activities and Power Hours, while
Sports and Recreation has provided video tips on staying active at home and hosted two exciting Madden Tournaments. JCA Theatre brought the wildly popular Miss Zoe into homes for live story times and theatre-style fitness. JCA reach went beyond social media. The JCA partnered with other community organizations, and staff helped monitor entry to River Garden’s campus, shopped for residents of The Coves, assisted at the JFCS Max
Block Food Pantry and made wellness phone calls to seniors. With looming concerns about the short and long-term effects on societal behaviors and the role of JCCs amidst this crisis, the Jewish Community Alliance continues to take steps to ensure they remain a relevant and evolving institution within the community that continues to provide a space where people can improve their quality of life for generations to come.
PROVIDING PASSOVER FOR SENIORS & SURVIVORS Congregation By Donna O’Steen, Jewish Family & Community Ahavath Chesed – The Services
The COVID-19 pandemic has created many challenges for people around the world. Local seniors and Holocaust survivors are no exception. As Passover neared, JFCS realized that with most seniors urged to isolate at home that they would be unable to go to the grocery store to shop for what they needed for the holiday, so we reached out to our Jewish community and asked for help. Thanks to the generous donations that came in from the Jacksonville Jewish Center, Beth El – The Beaches Synagogue and
Temple, as well as members of the community, JFCS was able to provide all in need seniors with staples for Passover, including Borscht, Matzo, Gefilte Fish, Matzo Ball Soup mix, horseradish and grape juice. Thank you!
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EDUCATION & SERMONS CONTINUE ON By Rabbi Yaakov Fisch, Etz Chaim Synagogue
The pandemic that is confronting us is changing every aspect of our lives, and that includes congregational life. At Etz Chaim Synagogue, we have transitioned to the new reality with a focus on two very important goals. Our Rabbis have been working hard to deliver educational offerings laden with spiritual and emotional respite. There are daily and weekly presentations that community members can take advantage of from a remote location. Rabbi Feigenbaum is offering a daily thought called the “Morning Minute” on YouTube in addition to his regular classes that are available on Zoom or Facebook Live. Rabbi Fisch delivers his weekly sermon on Thursday night, and it can be streamed on Zoom or Facebook Live. Our teen and youth programs led by Joey Hamaoui are also being offer end on virtual platforms. Another priority has been engaging the higher risk demographic group of the congregation and making
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sure their needs are being met. There has been a rotation of volunteers that are running errands to grocery stores so that people do not have to choose between basic essentials and being safe. We partnered with Gili’s and Tomato Crush to have readymade dinners and challahs for Shabbos to be delivered to over 40 families in the community. We are also mindful of the need to support these important kosher establishments. These are definitely challenging times but also times of opportunity. We are attempting to utilize these opportunities to increase Godliness and goodness in the world.
TOGETHER, EVEN AT HOME
By Justin Sakofs, Jacksonville Jewish Center
Before Covid-19, we used video conferencing to connect with friends or family who may not be living nearby. Now it has become the primary mode of communication. The Jacksonville Jewish Center brought more virtual interactions resulting from the need to “physically distance” ourselves. Students look forward to regular connection points, adults connect through daily t’fila, learning opportunities, and the musical “Kabbalat Shabbat Underground” on Friday nights. Bringing all these opportunities to the Zoom platform allowed new individuals to experience JJC’s opportunities. While digital experiences allow for more participation, Zoom cannot replace the feeling we receive and give when we sit with another
and talk, learn or pray together. Despite the challenges, we keep videoing because we need and want the connection with others. This desire and need provided the Center with the ability to experiment with online adult learning. When we return to the new normal, we’ll use technology to make learning more accessible to those who cannot join us in person. Using technology will not replace the incredible value received when meeting with someone. In fact, this physical distancing will allow us to value the time of meetings with others. We can create more moments that count. Be part of the digital journey with the Jacksonville Jewish Center at www. jaxjewishcenter.org/virtual and join us in person for more enriching learning.
POSTPONING JFCS 2020 TRANSFORMATIONS By Donna O’Steen, Jewish Family & Community Services
Jewish Family & Community Services has made the difficult decision to cancel the “Impacting Today...Transforming Tomorrows” 2020 Annual Fundraiser.
“We are very disappointed that we are unable to gather together for this year’s event to highlight our agency, recognize the Frisch Family, our honorary chairs, and mingle with and recognize all of our supporters, sponsors and volunteers,” said JFCS Executive Director Colleen
Rodriguez. “We look forward to hosting our very important event when it’s safe for everyone to attend.” For event news and updates, visit JFCS’ website at jfcsjax.org
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HEALING POWER OF MUSIC By Hazzan Holzer, Jacksonville Jewish Center
Sports are a big part of my life. I love watching, following and playing sports. Years ago, I intended to live the life of a sports broadcaster. Following the attacks of 9/11, however, I changed my career path. As many looked to sports as a respite from the chaos of that moment, I needed to find comfort through another outlet. That outlet was music. In these days of quarantine, when the closest thing we have to organized sports is the WWE, music has been the source of comfort and fresh air. From Disney sing-a-longs to rooftop serenades, we’ve all been inspired to sing out loud, even if our Zoom mics are muted. Through social media, we’ve shared musical moments on a weekly basis, from Friday night Shabbat services to Havdalah to Shoobee Doobee sing-alongs with our preschool-
ers. I’ve found comfort in singing with familiar faces, old and new friends, as I look for the strength during these difficult times. Sharing my own music with the world has been humbling yet empowering. Making myself vulnerable to the ins and outs of live-streaming hopefully lets all who watch lose their inhibitions and return to what matters most: finding connection with others. And so I hope you continue to listen to (or start listening to) the myriad ways that music, the liturgy of the soul, is becoming an anchor to our spiritual and mental survival. My real hope, however, is that when we return to the world of creating in-person moments, we do so with the same intensity; that we clap our hands, raise our arms and belt out the way we do now in the virtual world. Then music will have healed and transformed us for the better. Yehiyeh Tov, It will be oh so good.
FAITH & INSPIRATION By Cantor Carrie Barry, Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple
On September 11, 2001, I was living in Manhattan attending Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. We had just started class that morning when the first plane hit the World Trade Center. Rabbinic and Cantorial students, along with our teachers, gathered on the corner watching in stunned horror. As the day wore on, New York City transformed before our very eyes. People gathered at hospitals to give blood and they came together to lend a hand, provide comfort, and to pray. The city bonded in a way that had previously been unimaginable. We had become a community. As months turned into years, the sense of community lessened, but the connection of those who had experienced the shared trauma remained. The holiday of Shavuot celebrates the revelation of the Torah at Mount Sinai. As the Ten Commandments were given, the Israelites stood together and trembled in awe at the power of God.
The mountain shook and smoke billowed from the top. Our tradition tells us that every Jew who would ever live was gathered at the foot of the mountain and shared that transformational moment in our people’s history. We are in the midst of what will no doubt be seen as a significant historical event, and it’s not one city or one people: it’s all cities and all peoples. From the ever-increasing numbers of sick to the effect it is having on our global economy, it’s easy to get lost in the enormity of it all. And then there are all of the personal stories we are hearing from the frontline health workers, people infected, and those who have lost loved ones. What is becoming apparent is how closely connected we are on our planet. We must stand together, unified through dedication, hope and love. I pray that the compassion we are seeing all over the world is remembered, honored and emulated, and that the community we are building may continue to unite in spirit as we, Am Yisrael, have for over three thousand years.
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DONOR SPOTLIGHT: BERT LIVINGSTON, THE HARRY H. AND SYLVIA E. LIVINGSTON DONOR ADVISED FUND By Bert Livingston
The initial dollars used to fund the Harry and Sylvia Livingston Donor Advised Fund came in part from the money Germany paid us for our father’s home in Germany (confiscated by the Nazi Regime) that was reclaimed in 1989 after the fall of the Berlin Wall and eventual unification of East and West Germany. Additional dollars came when each of my brothers and I established Net Income Makeup Charitable Unit Trusts, NIMCRUT, upon the sale of our family company, now in it’s 74th year and third generation. Each of us brothers (myself, Stanley and Steven) set aside in a NIMCRUT $100,000 of Horst Engineering Stock and then sold it to my nephew, Scott. The cash has grown substantially and I have transferred my portion to the fund. Soon, my brothers plan on adding theirs.
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Currently, we recognize an opportunity to help support the needs of immigrants, as our father immigrated to the United States in October of 1938 through Ellis Island, NY. Did he do it “legally?” Who knows? His life was in danger and a loving country extended it’s invitation and welcomed him. Now in this time of food and employment crisis as well as a pandemic, I have tried to be as targeted as possible to follow our purpose: to use these important dollars to do good works and to be as creative as possible, seeking various opportunities to reward those working hard to feed those in need, shelter them as well and tell them how proud we are to be able to do it with the loving history of our parents, who taught us how to actually “care” about others. From the Livingston Family’s Book of Life entry: “We were inspired to
Pictured l to r: Bert Livingston, Steve Livingston and Stan Livingston
establish The Harry H. and Sylvia E. Livingston philanthropic fund as well as three charitable remainder trusts to endow the fund for the future. Inspired by loving parents and grandparents who had a time of great stress and personal danger established a 60 year legacy of love so that future generations could enjoy even greater love and perhaps greater peace and prosperity. Our ancient scholars expressed the uniqueness of man with admiration saying: “It is the duty of every person to know and consider himself unique in this world with unprecedented potential.” We chose to endow a
philanthropic fund in honor of our parents with the hope that it will last forever. Establishing a legacy to benefit both religious and non religious organizations that represent the best of mankind through their works in education, medical research, and other Mitzvahs for the benefit of all God’s children. We collectively feel this is a worthy endeavor.” The Jewish Foundation of Northeast Florida is grateful to The Livingston Family for carrying on their parent’s legacy of caring and dedication. We are certain that the spirit of their generosity will be felt in the Jacksonville community for years to come.
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YOM HASHOAH: WE WILL NEVER FORGET By Faye Hedrick, Jewish Federation and Foundation of Northeast Florida
In the past, our community has offered a Community-Wide Yom HaShoah Remembrance Day Program. This program is shared and rotated yearly through our local synagogues and 2020 was Beth El-The Beaches’ turn to host. With the help from other local clergy, the Federation & Foundation, Rabbi Matuson and Sherill Herzfeld took the opportunity to provide an impactful, memorable program accessible to the entire community. A watch party on the evening of Yom HaShoah had, at times, more than 150 viewers and has been viewed over 800 times since. Many of the viewers who posted also virtually lit candles with the hashtag #neverforget6M. From posts and reposts, we couldn’t keep track of the number of candles which were lit. One of the most moving components of the program was ‘Sheer Luck - A Story of Survival’ featuring Sherill Herzfeld’s father, Jack Glucksman. This documentary film provides an account of life in pre-war Poland; the five years Jack spent in various concentration camps (including Auschwitz); the Death March; and his survival in the waters
of the Baltic Sea after the Cap Arcona, the ship destined to take him to safety, was bombarded and sunk. This video was part of the original program planned and we are very fortunate we were able to bring Jack’s story to the forefront of our minds during this day of remembrance. This year’s Virtual Yom HaShoah program is one we are sure not to forget. The fact that our community can come together and produce beautiful programming during a time like this is unprecedented. We will never forget.
NEW HEAD OF SCHOOL ANNOUNCED
By Brian Pargman, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School DuBow Preschool and Martin J. Gottlieb Day School is pleased to announce Tina Silva as the new Head of School. Mrs. Silva has over 20 years of experience in education, including as a senior administrator of a Preschool and the current principal of an elementary school in Woonsocket, RI.
“We are excited that Tina will lead our dedicated team of faculty and staff. Tina is truly the perfect fit for our school and community,” Jacksonville Jewish Center Executive Director, Jennifer Smith said. Located in the heart of Mandarin at the Jacksonville Jewish Center, DuBow Preschool and Martin J. Gottlieb Day School enrolls 200 students who seek a quality Judaic and general studies education for children ages 12 months to Grade 8.
ADMISSIONS OFFICE IS OPEN!
By Brian Pargman, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School DuBow Preschool and Martin J. Gottlieb Day School remain closed due to the Coronavirus. While our students continue their remote learning, the Admissions staff is happy to speak with anyone interested in learning more about our wonderful school, which offers a robust Judaic and general studies curriculum. To learn more about our fabulous programs, visit dubowgottlieb.org or contact bpargman@ dubowgottlieb.org
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MARTIN J. GOTTLIEB DAY SCHOOL ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: JONA KATS By Brian Pargman, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
When Martin J. Gottlieb Day School alumni reminisce about their enrollment in the Middle school, the meaningful Mitzvah Projects are often the first memory that comes to mind. It is so wonderful to see these acts of goodwill continued beyond graduation. Recently, Jona Kats (‘17), a Junior at St. Johns Country Day School, jumped into action during this time of need as the Coronavirus pandemic spread. Jona and his high school classmates were recently highlighted on many local media outlets because they designed and produced face shields for first
responders using 3D printers. They donated their first set to the Clay County Emergency Operations Center. “They were amazed, they loved them and they were super thankful from what we understand. As long as it is needed, we will continue to make the face shields,” Kats said in a First Coast News interview. A gofundme account has been set up to support this
amazing effort by Jona and his classmates at www.SJCDS. net/ppe. If you have alumni news to share, please reach out to Brian Pargman at
bpargman@dubowgottlieb.org
Pictured above: Jona and a member from the Clay County Fire Department (Credit: CCFD Facebook Page)
KEEPING SENIORS CONNECTED “FACE-TO-FACE” By Kari Bell, River Garden Senior Services
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Heightened precautions, quarantine and social distancing are the ‘new normal’ at River Garden, but residents are getting some facetime with folks outside their building Leslie Held, Chaplain and Director of Jewish Life and Volunteer Services, and Laura Platzer, her assistant, have been working
hard to ensure our residents in the Home are not isolated from their families and the Jewish community at-large by facilitating a variety of technology-based communication. Kari Bell, Director of Communications and Marketing, has been assisting members of The Coves. FaceTime and Zoom have been utilized most often. If you would like to schedule a call, please reach out to Leslie, Laura or Kari. (904) 260-1818. Pictured left: Gerry Chiappetta enjoys a Zoom call with his family.
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TIPS FOR BUYING YOUR THE TEMPLE’S RELIGIOUS FIRST TABLET SCHOOL GOES VIRTUAL
By Kari Bell, River Garden Senior Services
Seniors at River Garden are embracing the use of technology like never before, as activities, programs and community interaction adapt in the wake of COVID-19. In addition to family communication, there are endless books, movies, puzzles and games seniors can enjoy during these quiet times. Plus, this time has proven that learning to navigate Telehealth is critical for older adults and
their families. When buying a tablet for an older adult, here are three tips from our recent experience: 1. Choose the largest screen possible, and look for ‘Accessibility’ features. Ease of use is super important! Keep in mind that seniors may need adjustments to offset vision or hearing impairments, or they may have challenges with fine motor skills needed to touch or expand the screen. A stylus is also helpful. 2. The device does not need to connect to a cellular service. Most of the activities seniors like to do can be accomplished via wi-fi. River Garden has free wi-fi. 3. Be careful with older tablets. ‘Hand-me-downs’ are fine, but please be careful as some older tablets are not responsive or don’t have features that are needed for today’s apps. Pictured left: Alan Chepenik uses his tablet to stay connected at The Coves.
By Michelle Penson, Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple
Temple’s religious school (aka TIR) pivoted in mid-March to meet social distancing guidelines and work within the confines of Duval and St. Johns counties as well as the state of Florida. Michelle Penson, Director of Religious School and Family Engagement, says the actions taken are much like tending a garden. “I don’t have a green thumb,” Penson said. “It often takes trial and error for the seeds to germinate, for vegetables to grow, for keeping insects and pests at bay. We set a plan
for religious school, saw what worked and did not go over well, and changed the amount of sunlight or fertilizer to see if that fixed the issue.” The Temple is still holding tefilah, led by Cantor Carrie Barry, each Sunday scheduled for TIR. Hebrew is taught distantly by our amazing faculty. Our post b’nai mitzvah students, Siyyum, still meet weekly via Zoom for their Hot Topics class. “We found scheduling difficult due to limited technology and time slots, but made it work. Our students are so happy to meet on Zoom. They are singing and dancing to the songs we sing. It’s the community that continues to grow. That’s the sunshine that fills my heart.” Penson said. Penson, Temple staff, lay leaders and faculty are planning for the 2020-2021 school year. Registration opens in early May for the 2020-2021 TIR school year. She said they are planning for many contingencies and unknowns. As a member of the Association of Reform Jewish Educators, she was invited to participate in a cohort of planning for the next year in the face of COVID-19.
DUBOW CONSTRUCTION CONTINUES DURING THE PANDEMIC
By Brian Pargman, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School The DuBow Preschool building may have closed in March, but contractors have been hard at work on construction in the back part of the DuBow Preschool and the Levin Indoor Play Area. Construction started in
March on the damaged section of the preschool building after city permitting and insurance delays. Contractors have removed the back wall to the building and rebuilt it. They will be working on updating the roof structure in the rooms around the indoor play area over the next month.
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NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE
STUDENTS MASTER REMOTE LEARNING
the children rise to this unique By Brian Pargman, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School occasion,” Kindergarten teacher
Since March 18, DuBow Preschool and Martin J. Gottlieb Day School students have attended class from home as part of the school’s temporary move to online learning due to the coronavirus. The Leadership team worked hard with very little notice to ensure that the first day of remote learning was a success for all. Teachers lead classes via Zoom, a video conferencing platform, and maintain the quality educational experience that students and parents expect. We also take pride in continuing the school’s resource classes including physical education, art, music, and library. “It has been wonderful to see
RIVER GARDEN AUXILIARY’S TOMBOLA
By Kari Bell, River Garden Senior Services
Anniversary Day at River Garden, scheduled for March 29, was cancelled, as was the Tombola drawing that was scheduled to take place. We appreciate and extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone who submitted their checks and tickets. Here’s what to do if you submitted a ticket. Option 1: We can hold your 2020 Tombola tickets over for the 2021 drawing. In this case, three things will happen. First, you can use the tax deduction this year. Second, all the money collected will go to River Garden. Third, we will match your ticket purchase and will
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prepare and place an additional ticket in the drawing for every ticket you bought for 2020. So if you purchased one ticket, you will have two, or purchased three tickets, you will have six in next year’s drawing.. Option 2: We can return your money. Please contact Fran Leibowitz with your preferred option: 904-268-4351 or rleibow@ yahoo.com. Our Auxiliary is very committed to the needs of River Garden and we regret the loss of this opportunity. Next year is River Garden’s 75th Anniversary and with your devoted and continued help we hope to have a super successful campaign in 2021.
Pamela Lewis said. “Our students have continued to flourish through online learning. We (the teachers) interact with the students 3 to 4 times a week via Zoom and we have shown them that learning doesn’t only have to take place in a classroom!” Students are liking distance learning too. “Online learning has been a very efficient system. It is sad that I don’t get to see my friends but the teachers have been doing an amazing job of getting all our assignments to us and on time,” eighth grade student George Setzer said. “Overall, it’s been a great way to learn while this pandemic is around.” Pictured left: VPKer Jackson Smith enjoys remote learning.
WELCOME ANNA POST TO RIVER GARDEN!
By Kari Bell, River Garden Senior Services
River Garden is pleased to welcome Holocaust survivor Anna [Dula] Post to our Home. Anna moved with the help of her son from New York. She is a former teacher from the Kadimah Academy in Buffalo, where she taught for over 30 years. Now in Jacksonville, the Social Services team at River Garden will be connecting her with JFCS and other community resources for survivor support. Anna’s incredible story can be read online at http:// www.hrcbuffalo.org/anna-post.
Food in Bidud An online cooking workshop from Israel to your home
Let's Connect2Gether Through Food Food in Bidud is an Online Cooking Workshop with light and fun recipes that will bring to your home the kitchen experience, smells and flavors. Join us for a Taste of Partnership AT 12pm EDT/7pm ISR on: May 4th May 11th May 18th May 25th
RSVP Link for Food in Bidud For more information, go into our Facebook Page
garden
SEE HOW HER
A
grows By Karen Cohen Morse, Morah Karen’s Garden
tomato that is way overripe, the ends of carrots, the seeds s a Jewish mom, I am always aware of my inside a cantaloupe—all seeds, perfect for planting. connection to Caring for Creation. Maybe now even more. All these vegetables need no special preparation for planting. You just need If you are like me, the gloves, a shovel and a good place to grow minute you heard about the Covid-19 “A tomato that is your “crops”; a place with enough sun in pandemic you started freaking out that way overripe, the the morning and not a lot in the afterhere wouldn’t be any safe fresh vegetables for your family to eat. ends of carrots, the noons, has proper drainage and bedding that will help hold in water. For bedding, When I garden, I plant the food my seeds inside a family eats… from the very food that my I like pine needles because they break cantaloupe—all down into nutrients for the soil. family eats. I started saving lettuce hearts and the root ends of my green onions, I feel such a connection with the earth, perfect for when I garden this way. I am truly carrots and radishes to plant. I am proud planting.” humbled by all that Hashem has given to say that I have at least a dozen heads of lettuce that have been harvested me, such as the ability to provide nourishment for my family and hopefully multiple times, and I have even more to plant. The same for my green onions and radishes. encourage other families to begin their own gardens. My mind has been filled with so many gardening ideas. We don’t really think about all the food we throw away. A
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My Morah Karen’s Garden, on YouTube, has been the perfect place to take my many years of experience as a Preschool Judaic Resource teacher to teach parents and children how to garden together. If you are a novice gardener, it is a great way to begin to garden with your child. There is always a Judaic component, because that is who I am. I am well aware that vitality and abundance of blooms on my orchids are a blessing. This is how I have been coping with the “new normal.” It has been fulfilling spiritually and has given me a better understanding of why we say the different blessings on various foods we eat. Each and every time I use the parsley that I planted on Tu’ Bishvat, it is a miracle. Every head of lettuce I use in my salad reminds me that every bite is worthy of blessing We have been given everything we need to grow what we eat. Go on…start your own garden, you know you want to. For more tips, check out Morah Karen’s Garden on YouTube.
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SEE AND BE SCENE THROUGH THE LENS IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Since mid-March, JCA employees have been re-deployed to help at the River Garden entrance gate, asking screening questions related to possible COVID-19 exposure and taking temperatures of all employees and vendors who need to enter the River Garden campus.
We are so very thankful for JCA’s help at the guardhouse!!
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Adam Chaskin leads by example, photographed during his shift at River Garden assisting with security screening.
SEE AND BE SCENE
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THROUGH THE LENS IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA Certainly, this was a unique Passover season. And River Garden may have been the only place in town that was able to host Seder meals while still protecting our seniors and maintaining a proper social distance. Although we missed our family and many friends, Steve Meisel graciously hosted the gatherings and we are ever-grateful for the River Garden dining staff for preparing individual portions to enjoy.
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NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE
Congregation Ahavath Chesed-The Temple hosted their first ever Purim Renaissance Faire on Sunday, March 8th. Everyone had a wonderful time! All photos by Dan Harris PhotoArt
Lady Rachael was on hand to read everyone’s fortunes-all in good fun.
Cantor Barry and her husband, Ian served as the King and Queen of the Faire.
One of our TIR students had a blast playing the games! Several Temple congregants came together to put on a wonderful Purim Spiel for the Faire.
Pictured from left to right: Sydney Mann, Cantor Barry, and Michelle Penson
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WORTH THE SCHLEP V I R T U A L E V E N T S YO U C A N E X P E R I E N C E AT H O M E
CONGREGATION AHAVATH CHESED THE TEMPLE The Temple’s Torah Study Saturdays at 9:00-10:00 a.m. Join the clergy to explore and discuss the weekly Torah portion and the Haftarah. To RSVP and receive the Zoom code, contact Cantor Barry at cantorbarry@thetemplejax. org. TIR Sundays at 9:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. TIR is the Temple’s Religious School and is available to students from the ages of 3 through 10th grade. Contact Michelle Penson at mpenson@ thetemplejax.org for more information.
BETH EL Morning discussions with Rabbi Matuson Thursdays at 10:30am Please join him at: https:// us02web.zoom. us/j/84911328779 Password: RabbiM
ETZ CHAIM Java for the Soul Wednesdays @ 11:30am https://zoom. us/j/8439069742 All class can be viewed it on Facebook live or on Zoom. Dial by your location 929-205-6099 312-6266799 Meeting ID: 843 906 9742 March to Sinai May 10 at 1pm
May 17 and 24 at 2pm Join on Zoom: https:// us02web.zoom. us/j/81463956847 Meeting ID: 81463956847 Password: Sinai
JCA Webinar with Lt. Col. Reserve Eyal Dror May 12 at 1pm Join our webinar with Eyal Dror, former commander of the IDF’s “Good Neighbor” unit which provides humanitarian aid to innocent Syrian during the ongoing Syrian civil war. To receive the Zoom link, RSVP to Rachel Sandler at rachel.sandler@jcajax.org Lunch & Learn from Israel May 14 at 12pm Mind the Gap: The Reality and Misconceptions about Israel. To receive the Zoom link, RSVP to Rachel Sandler at rachel.sandler@ jcajax.org Hebrew 202 Mondays at 6:00 pm JCA Virtual Join Harvey Leven to learn new conversational Hebrew phrases and develop your ability to read without vowels, just like in Israel. This class is for those who already can read voweled Hebrew print. Every Monday until June 1. To register, visit https://www. jcajax.org/ji. For more programs, including online fitness classes, visit Facebook: facebook.com/jcajax/
JACKSONVILLE JEWISH CENTER Shabbat Morning Live with the Center’s Clergy Team Saturdays at 9:30 am Click Here to Join Havdalah: Close Shabbat with Hazzan Holzer and your Center Family Saturdays at 8:40 pm (this time will change each Saturday to be slightly later) Click Here to Join
Families with Young Children — Bedtime Sh’ma and a Story Wednesdays at 7:00 pm Click Here to Join Your Coffee, Our Torah: Parshat Online Discussion Thursdays at 11:00 am Click Here to Join Mishnah with Justin hosted by Justin Sakofs Thursdays at 3:30pm Click Here to Join
Sunday Morning Services Sundays at 8:30 am Click Here to Join
JEWISH FEDERATION AND FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Weekday Morning Services Monday through Friday at 8:00 am Click Here to Join
Digital Tools for Educators May 10 at 1:30pm Join in a Zoom Call Session for Teachers With Ronit Sade - Techno-Pedagogical Consultant at School Twinning Network. https:// bit.ly/P2G-digitaltools
Weekday Evening Services Sunday through Thursday at 8:00 pm Click Here to Join Learning with Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner Mondays at 7:00 pm Click Here to Join Healing Service hosted by Hazzan Jesse Holzer Tuesdays at 5:00 pm Click Here to Join From the Rabbi’s Kitchen to Yours…with Rabbi Shira Rosenblum Wednesdays at 11:00 am Click Here to Join Coping with Loss…with Beth Shorstein Wednesdays at 3:00 pm Click here to join
Food in Bidud Mondays at 12pm Online cooking workshop with light and fun recipes that will bring to your home the kitchen experience, smells and flavors. https://bit.ly/ P2G-foodinbidud Women’s Philanthropy Girlfriend Connection May 14 at 7:00pm Linda Janasz, Director of Mindful Alliance, speaks to help us pause, breathe and smile. Visit https://www. jewishjacksonville.org/ event to RSVP and receive the Zoom link. Registration is required for this event.
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COMMUNITY RESOURCES HELP ACROSS NORTHEAST FLORIDA Admissions 904-886-8420 Adult Day 904-288-7858 Home Health Care 904-288-7851 Outpatient Rehab 904-886-8454 The Coves 904-292-2683 Volunteers 904-886-8429 Foundation 904-886-8430 MAIN 904-260-1818
River Garden is the go-to resource for high-quality adult care in Jacksonville. Honoring our Jewish traditions, the dedicated staff, leadership and volunteers are all committed to a best-inclass experience. Whether it is for you, your spouse, parents or friend, be sure to request River Garden.
PJ Library, the award-winning free program for books and music is open to all families with Jewish children in Jacksonville. If your children are between the ages of six months and eight years, they are eligible. Please sign up now by going to pjlibrary.org/communities/jacksonville or calling Whitney Kuvin at 904-3945724.
JFCS is now using a Lyft product called Concierge, which allows JFCS to arrange rides on behalf of its clients, including the ability to schedule rides up to a week in advance. Lyft has also partnered with GreatCall, a senior focused cell phone company, which will help seniors use Lyft without having to navigate the smart phone app. Anyone using a Jitterbug phone can now simply press ‘0’ and arrange a ride with the company. To learn more or schedule rides, contact Nicole Brown at 904-394-5724
JFCS in partnership with River Garden is pleased to bring you our meal program, Meals4You, from our kitchen to yours. Meals are delicious, nutritious, convenient and delivered right to your door. Jewish dietary laws are observed. Call Nicole Andrews at 904-394 -5810 for more information.
Become a Jewish Healing Network volunteer at JFCS and help us fulfill the mitzvah of Bikkur Cholim. We need volunteers to make weekly visits or phone calls to a senior or deliver food to those who cannot get out. For more information, call Hilary Rotenberg at 904-394-5722
FEDERATION 2019 ALLOCATIONS: Jewish Community Alliance: $189,250 Jewish Family & Community Services: $272,000 River Garden Hebrew Home: $177,700 Martin J Gottlieb Day School: $112,000 Torah Academy of Jacksonville: $46,000 Overseas Allocation - JFNA: $684,130 Other Organizations: $56,160 24
